Israel’s well-established startup ecosystem is attracting not only huge tech companies like facebook, google apple and IBM to operate within its boundaries, but also investors from around the world, looking for opportunities in the pharmaceutical, diamonds and real estate industries, as well as in hi-tech companies.
If you’re planning a business trip to Israel here are 4 tips you must know before visiting.
Arriving – avoid the long lines in Ben Gurion airport
Tip #1: book the airport VIP services to bypass the airport guman traffic jams
Almost all international flights coming to Israel land in terminal 3 at Ben Gurion airport. The airport offers free wi-fi, free Luggage trolleys (with a credit card deposit), a 24 hour duty free shop, as well as several business and VIP lounges.
However, Ben Gurion has its downsides.
Human Traffic Jams
After signing the Open Skies agreement on 2012, Israel’s only International airport can get very crowded, with up to 100,000 passengers passing through a single day, according to the Israeli Airports Authority.
This leads to long lines at the passport control upon arrival, and even more so upon the departure of Israel. However many companies and business travelers hire personal VIP agents that offer an opportunity to bypass the airport hassle.
Getting around – It lies in the palm of your hand
Tip #2: download local transportation apps that will make you stay easier
Tip #3: hire a personal driver to save time and money
Ben Gurion airport is located only 9 miles (15 kilometers) from Tel-Aviv.
Israel’s public transportation offers many options including train, shuttles, taxis (private and shared) and car rental. Most of these transportation methods offer a mobile app that will help you getting around faster!
For taxi rides in Israel it is recommended you download Gett app. If you’re renting a car make sure you are using Waze that will help you with free driving directions, traffic reports and driving Speed limits. The Israeli railway and bus system has an app called Moovit that will help you plan your trip.
But if you’re on a tight schedule, or need to visit different places, you can also hire a professional driver, who can pick you up and drop you off, any time. Hiring private transportation allows business travelers to stay focused, work on their way to (or from) the airport and save expensive parking fees.
Where to stay – maximize your needs
Tip #4: choose a business hotel that will save you time and money
Israel offers a wide variety of hotels to choose from, and it would be wise to select a place that is close to your business meetings.
However, there’s no need to compromise on quality over location. In Tel aviv, Haifa and Jerusalem you can find excellent hotels that offers extra services for their business travelers.
Full wi-fi coverage is not exclusive to business hotels, but if you are looking for a little bit more you can find business hotels that would be happy to offer laptop and mobile phones rental, as well as Printer, scanner, and fax machine, free for usage.
Other business services you might be interested in are a full work station inside the room, as well as global business and financial international tv channels, international newspapers, all day dining options, lounges for private business meetings and secretarial services.
