Travel Information
Jerusalem is a city suspended between heaven and earth, East and West, past and present - parallel universes of flowing caftans and trendy coffee shops. For some people, Jerusalem is a condition, like being in love; for others, it is a state of mind, a constant tension between various faiths and cultures. You may feel moved, energized, or swept into the maelstrom of contemporary issues - but the city will not leave you unaffected.
The word unique is often thrown around, but Jerusalem has a real claim on it. The city is sacred to half the human race, and its iconic Old City walls embrace primary sites of the three great monotheistic religions. For Jews, Jerusalem has always been their spiritual focus and historical national center; the imposing Western Wall is the last remnant of the ancient Temple Period complex. For almost 2,000 years, Christians have venerated Jerusalem as the place where their faith was shaped - through the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus of Nazareth - and the candlelit Church of the Holy Sepulcher is where the greater part of Christendom recognizes those events. Islamic tradition identifies Jerusalem as the masjid al-aqsa, the "farthermost place," from which Muhammad ascended to Heaven for his portentous meeting with God: the dazzling, gold - top Dome of the Rock marks the spot.
The Old City is far more than shrines, however. Its arches, hidden courtyards, and narrow cobblestone alleyways beckon you back in time. The streets are crowded with travelers, pilgrims, and vendors of everything from tourist trinkets and leather sandals to fresh produce and embroidered fabrics. Your senses are assaulted by intense colors and by the aromas of turmeric, fresh mint, wild sage, and cardamom - spiced coffee. The blare of Arabic music and the burble of languages fill the air, including those of tourists from all corners of the world. Step outside the Old City and you'll be transported into the 21st century: quaint neighborhoods, some restored, embody an earlier simplicity. West Jerusalem forms the bulk of a modern metropolis of 800,000, Israel's largest city, and boasts good restaurants, fine hotels, a variety of unique museums, a plethora of top - notch cultural events including dance and art, vibrant markets, and upscale neighborhoods.
Watch the stone walls glow at sunset - the source of the by - now clichéd but still compelling phrase "Jerusalem of Gold" - and understand the mystical hold Jerusalem has had on so many minds and hearts for so many thousands of years.” (Foders.com). Such is Jerusalem, the capital of Israel, the only city in the world that has 70 names of love and yearning, the city that in old maps appears at the center of the world and is still adored like a young bride.
See you in Jerusalem
Gary, Hadas, Gaby, Orya, Dana, Sigal and Yona
Getting from Ben-Gurion Airport to Jerusalem
Shared Taxi (sherut)
A shared taxi is often the best option. These taxis leave the airport once there are enough passengers going to Jerusalem to fill up the vehicle. It brings you to your hotel.
Although a shared taxi costs somewhat more than the bus (the fare is approximately $17), the advantage is it will take you directly to your hotel. The down side is that while it can take only 40 minutes to get from the airport to Jerusalem, you might spend another 40 minuts in the van, circling around the city until the taxi has dropped off all its passengers. Shared taxis operate from outside the airport. You can also book them online but it is not necessary. The most well-known company is "Nesher" and can be found right as you exit the airport doors.
Public Bus
At Ben Gurion Airport take a shuttle from your terminal to the Ben Gurion Airport El Al Junction. Egged bus 947 leaves the junction approximately every 20 minutes for the Jerusalem Central Bus Station, starting at 6:17 a.m. through 22:22. Fare is 21.50 shekels (about $5.50). Going to Jerusalem takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes.
Privat Taxi
You can hail a taxi at the official taxi stand outside the arrival hall, or call a cab company. If you have lots of luggage, or more than four people in your party, ask for a large vehicle. By law, a regular taxi can only take four passengers. Average cost to/from Jerusalem can range between 250-300 shekels ($65.00 - $80.00), perhaps a bit more if you have more than two passengers or lots of luggage or come late at night. If the cab driver quotes a much higher figure, though, negotiate him down, or try a different cab. Please, only take officially sanctioned/authorized cabs!
