ITN - ISRAEL TRAVEL NEWS ONLINE - July 2023

Israel Travel News, an English language professional monthly publication focusing on incoming tourism to Israel.

№ ??? 〉 January 2019 № 439 〉 July 2023

July 2023

TEL AVIV MARKS CELEBRATED 25TH ANNIVERSARY OF PRIDE

How Much Money Does A Foreign Tourist Spend When Visiting Israel?

Mid-2023: more than 9.2 million passengers passed through Israel

Three new properties in the Red Sea of Eilat

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CONTENTS July 2023

ISRAEL TRAVEL NEWS

Israel Tourism How Much Money Does A Foreign Tourist Spend When Visiting Israel? May 2023: Record Of One Million Tourist Overnight Stays The Year 2023 Marks A Decade Of The Open Skies Tel Aviv Marks Celebrated 25th Anniversary Of Pride Aviation Haifa Airport Returns To International Operations El Al Will Add Two More Dreamliner’s To The Company’s Fleet Airline Industry Paints A Promising Picture: 9.8 Billion Usd Revenue In 2023

Cover Photo: Ilan Spira

Since 1979

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Hotels Brown Hotels Launch The Three New Properties In The Red Sea Of Eilat A New Hotel For The Jacob Chain: Jacob Hotel Eilat Avia Magen Was Elected Vice President Of The Israel Hotel Association Two Golden Crown Hotels Open Rooftop Restaurants A New Hotel Has Been Launched In Israel: In The City Of Rishon Lezion Prima Hotels Will Build Another Hotel In Netanya

Founded by: Amos Kinamon (1925-1994) Publisher & Editor-in-Chief: Eyal Shmueli Managing Director: Tal Shmueli

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800

Europe

4,000 1,300 9,800 2,700 650

Page 20

Israel

United Kingdom United States Rest of World

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Digital copies - 40,000 distributed throughout the world

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July 2023

Israel Travel News • 3

TOURISM

HOW MUCH MONEY DOES A FOREIGN TOURIST SPEND WHEN VISITING ISRAEL? W hat is the most touristic month in Israel? How many days does a foreign tourist stay in Israel?

Research reveals intriguing findings regarding the purchasing and flight habits of tourists coming to Israel

The research is based on real data of payment card expenses (but does not include any personal information and the data is presented in an aggregated and anonymous form). The research reveals intriguing findings regarding the purchasing and flight habits of tourists coming to Israel. These show the real impact of tourism on the Israeli business and economy. From the data of the report, it appears that most of the tourists in 2022 came from European countries. In fact, over 50% of all visitors to Israel this year

What and how much do tourists in Israel spend their money on? And what is the amount of the average transaction made by tourists coming to Israel? And who are the tourists who spend the most money? A study conducted by Mastercard’s research division using the Tourism Insights Platform reveals an economic report based on tourism spending analysis systems and presents for the first-time real data on incoming tourism to Israel.

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July 2023

came from across the continent. The 9 leading countries in inbound tourism to Israel are: USA, UK, Germany, France, Netherlands, Italy, Switzerland, Canada and Brazil. It also appears that the month of November is precisely the month in which the most credit transactions were carried out during the year 2022. In this month, more than 10% of the total annual expenses were carried out, followed by the month of October with 9.7% (the Sukkot holiday) and in third place the month of July with 9.6% from the total of the transactions. In contrast, in January only 4.6% of the annual transactions were made and it is placed last.

amount on average for a single credit card transaction - $87 on average. In second place are the tourists from the United Arab Emirates - 86 dollars, in third place are the Indian tourists - 70 dollars on average. British and American tourists spend a total of $46, which is also the general average for a single purchase by a tourist in Israel. The culinary category is led by Italian tourists, when they spend 34% of their total expenditure on the best restaurants throughout the country. In second place are the Dutch with 31%. The tourists from the United Arab Emirates also express interest in the local food culture and 24% of their spending during the vacation is dedicated to restaurants.

the USA, 23% from the UK, 11% from Germany. In contrast, almost two-thirds of the tourists who come to Jerusalem come from the USA, 20% from the UK, and 5% from Germany. Additional data that emerges from the analysis of the first quarter of 2023, shows that from a tourism point of view Israel is in a “post-Corona” period; Spending on entertainment and experiences climbed by 65.1% in March 2023 compared to March 2022. In the first quarter of 2023, tourists’ spending on experiences and entertainment climbed by 3.3%, compared to the first quarter of last year. When looking at the data on shopping expenses in Israel - in March 2023, tourist

Mastercard report data reveal that tourists from the USA come to Israel for the longest period of stay - 8.4 days on average. In second place are the tourists from Great Britain who stay 7.7 days on average respectively. Canadians stay an average of 6.8 days, while Germans stay an average of 5.9 days. The average length of stay in Israel in 2022 is 7.3 days.

From the data of the

report, it appears that most of the tourists in 2022 came from European countries. In fact, over 50% of all visitors to Israel this year came from across the continent

According to the report’s data, American tourists are ranked first and spend an average of $1,042 per visit, followed by the Swiss who spend an average of $1,039. The top ten are rounded out by tourists from India who spend an average of $536 per visit. In a good place in the middle are the tourists from the United Arab Emirates with an expenditure of 734 dollars. Another conclusion that emerges from the analysis of tourism expenditures is that Swiss tourists spend the highest

The Dutch tourists (known for their bicycle culture) spend the highest amount on transportation and travel expenses with 10% of the total expenditure during the visit while the Mexicans, ranked first in spending in retail chains with 20% of the total expenditure. The two largest cities in Israel - Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, are the ones that naturally attract the majority of tourists who come to the country. 39% of the tourists who come to Tel Aviv come from

expenses increased by 38% compared to March 2022, while in the first quarter of 2023 this segment recorded an increase of 8.1% compared to the corresponding quarter in 2022. At the same time, comparing the number of tourists before the outbreak of the corona epidemic shows that there is still growth potential for tourism in Israel. Visitor arrivals recovered to 375,600 in March 2023, compared to 456,423 in March 2019, indicating that we have not yet reached the peak of 2019.

Israel Travel News • 5

ISRAEL TOURISM

July 2023

MAY 2023: RECORD OF ONE MILLION TOURIST OVERNIGHT STAYS

Figures still lower by about 16% compared to May 2019

I n May 2023, tourist overnight stays – a 16% decrease compared to May 2019. Higher than average decreases were recorded in Eilat – a 62% decrease compared to overnight stays amounted to approximately 1 million 2019, the Dead Sea with a 39% decrease, Netanya with a 40% decrease, Haifa with a 19% decrease, Nazareth with a 20% decrease, Jerusalem with a 10% decrease. In Herzliya there was a decrease of 23% and in Tel Aviv a decrease of 2%. Israeli overnight stays: In May, Israeli overnight stays totaled approximately 1.25 million, a 9% decrease compared to May 2022, a 17% increase compared to May 2019.

with about 64%, Netanya with about 62% and Nazareth with about 59%. Jerusalem with about 70%, Nazareth with about 68% and Tel Aviv with about 67%. The hotel association stated: “One year since the return to normality and the opening of the skies and incoming tourism does show signs of recovery, but the numbers are lower than the expectations of a return to pre-pandemic figures in 2019, now it is clear that this will not happen. It is estimated that we will end the year with 1.5-2 million less overnight stays from 2019. A great and precise marketing effort is required in order to obtain the 2019 data, speed up the pace and narrow the gap”.

In the first five months of the year, 9.5 million overnight stays were recorded in tourist hotels in Israel (9.9 million in 2019, 7.7 million overnight stays in 2022). 4.2 million were tourist overnight stays – 44% of the total overnight stays (53% in 2019, 27% in 2022). The occupancy of rooms in hotels was 62% (68% in 2019, 51% in 2022). The occupancy of the rooms by districts ranges from 56% in the Haifa district to 66% in the Jerusalem district. Segmenting by selected localities, it was found that in May the highest room occupancy was recorded in Jerusalem (75%) and in Eilat 74%.

Total overnight stays: amounted to about 2.3 million – a decrease of %1 compared to May 2019. The national room occupancy amounted to about 70% compared to about 66% in May 2022 and 74% in May 2019. Occupancies higher than the national average were recorded in Herzliya, Eilat and Jerusalem with approximately 75% in each city and Tel Aviv with approximately 71%. In the Dead Sea, an occupancy of about 69% was recorded, Tiberias with about 66%, Haifa

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ISRAEL TOURISM

THE YEAR 2023 MARKS A DECADE OF THE OPEN SKIES

M inister of Transportation and Road Safety, Brigadier General Miri Regev: “The continuation of the trend of growth in the number of vacationers abroad shows a strong economy and a positive national mood. The Abraham Agreements contributed to this welcome trend, which opened the skies to the Emirates, Bahrain and Morocco, and made it possible to fly Over the skies of Saudi Arabia while significantly shortening the flight times. The line to Dubai has become one of the leading in the UAE, with about a million passengers a year. Since I took office, we have opened new direct airline routes to Turkey, Tokyo, Dublin, Nigeria, and Cape Town, and this summer 13 new airlines are landing here. I put all the factors to prepare and give

the best service to the traveling public. I wish everyone a pleasant vacation and a pleasant flight”. Israel Defense Forces approved all the requests for flights submitted by the airlines, with the aim of expanding the variety of flights and the competition for the variety of destinations. The leading destinations for the month of June are: Turkey, at the top of the table with 15% of all flights, Greece, USA, Italy and Cyprus. The airport has prepared to accommodate passengers through the massive recruitment of employees, the reinforcement of passenger service and the increased presence of managers. As part of the evaluations, the “Family Patrol” and the port staff will make it easier for families with children to go through the security check and check-in, when one representative

Agreements, and two years of the Abraham Agreements, two historical landmarks in the development of Israel’s aviation relations. Ben Gurion Airport is the only international airport that will over-pass the all- time record year numbers this year. From the beginning of this year to the end of May, more than 9.2 million passengers passed through Israel, an increase of 9% compared to the record year. By the end of the year, the number of passengers is expected to exceed the record number reached in 2019, before the corona virus, with about 25 million passengers

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July 2023

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of the family can check in for everyone. Technological screening measures were added in the security screening hall to shorten waiting times, including a fast-screening route for passengers with hand luggage only, from all airlines, who checked in from home. New self-service stations (“kiosks”) have been installed in the passenger hall, which allow printing a destination tag (“bag tag”) for luggage and sending it quickly directly to the plane, by scanning the suitcase’s barcode, while significantly shortening the check-in process. On the busiest days, about 100,000 passengers are expected to pass through the airport on about 600 flights, an

average of take-off or landing every 2.5 minutes. The airport has asked the flying public to arrive no more than 3 hours before the flight, to check in from home and to be patient. Before arriving, check which terminal the flight departs from. The growth also continued in the scope of activity in Terminal 1, which serves mainly low-cost companies and charges reduced fees both from the airline and from the passengers themselves. Over 250,000 passengers depart from Terminal 1 per month, and it operates continuously 24/7, and operates a free shuttle service (“shuttle”) from Terminal 3 and the parking lots.

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ISRAEL TOURISM

TEL AVIV MARKS CELEBRATED 25TH ANNIVERSARY OF PRIDE

150,000 marched at the Biggest Pride Event in the Middle East

T el Aviv commemorated the 25th anniversary of its renowned Pride Parade, which is considered the largest Pride event in the Middle East. The festivities took place along the iconic Tel Aviv coastline, offering a picturesque setting for the grand celebration. The Pride Parade returned to the beautiful Tel Aviv Promenade, with the event scheduled during the afternoon hours, allowing participants to relish the refreshing sea breeze and witness the breathtaking sunset. This year, Tel Aviv Global & Tourism showcased a particularly vibrant and mesmerizing pride float in collaboration with the leading drag queen, Erika Histerika Genderika, representing the next

generation of drag. Erika brought her unique style, charisma, and captivating performances to the parade, captivating the audience with her remarkable talent and artistic expression. The collaboration between Tel Aviv Global & Tourism and Erika added an extra touch of glamour and excitement to the festivities, further highlighting the city’s commitment to inclusivity, diversity, and pushing boundaries in celebrating the LGBTQ+ community. The parade kicked off at Shalag St. and proceeded towards Daniel St. It featured a vibrant display of nine trucks representing prominent party lines in Tel Aviv and various LGBTQ+ community organizations.

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July 2023

Upon receiving the signal from Tel Aviv-Yafo’s Mayor, Ron Huldai, that stated “The Pride weekend started with a clear message for everyone: We are all equal, we are all human, and we all deserve to love without fear, whoever we want. Happy Pride to all. Enjoy!” The dazzling trucks adorned with captivating decorations and manned by talented dancers and performers from the LGBTQIA+ community set off, infusing the atmosphere with an electrifying energy. As the engines roared to life and the music filled the air, an exuberant crowd, consisting of individuals from across the globe who had gathered to celebrate freedom, acceptance,

and diversity, began their march. The procession symbolized the ongoing struggle for equal rights for all members of the LGBTQIA+ community. The Tel Aviv Pride Parade has become a cherished tradition since its inception in 1998. Each year, hundreds of thousands of residents and LGBTQ+ community members proudly march alongside tens of thousands of visitors and families hailing from various corners of the world. Tel Aviv stands as a warm and inclusive home for all its communities, taking immense pride in its pioneering role in championing LGBTQ+ rights and serving as an inspiration on a global scale.

Israel Travel News • 11

AVIATION

July 2023

EL AL WILL ADD TWO MORE DREAMLINER’S TO THE COMPANY’S FLEET The signing took place as part of the Paris Air Salon in which El Al senior officials took part

HAIFA AIRPORT RETURNS TO INTERNATIONAL OPERATIONS

The first international flight took off this week from Haifa to Cyprus, after four years without international commercial flights

E l Al signed an agreement to lease 2 additional 787- 9 Dreamliner aircraft. The lease period will be 15 years for each plane, with the delivery dates of the planes being the third quarter of 2025 and the first quarter of 2026. The signing took place as part of the Paris Air Salon in which El Al senior officials took part. This is the realization of El Al’s 2017 agreement with AERCAP, which grants El Al the option to lease two 787 aircraft. Last month, El Al announced in the financial statements for the first quarter of 2023, that it extended the agreement in question and is now announcing the realization of the agreement. With the receipt of the aircraft, 19 Boeing 787 aircraft will operate in the company’s service (15 787 aircraft which are already operating in the company’s service and four more 787 aircraft expected to be

received between 2023-2026). In the original equipment program, El Al ordered 16 Dreamliner aircraft, 15 of which have already been delivered to the company and are in active service. The 16th model 787-8 aircraft, named “Nof HaGalil” is awaiting delivery to El Al in the US and is expected to be delivered in the third quarter of 2023. In addition, at the end of 2022, El Al signed with the aircraft manufacturer Boeing a proposal document for the purchase of a new Boeing 787 aircraft -9 equipped with two Rolls Royce engines. This is El Al’s Dreamliner number 17 and is expected to be delivered in the second quarter of 2024. The aircraft was originally manufactured for another customer whose identity has not been revealed.

A new flight line from Haifa to Larnaca and Paphos in Cyprus was launched this week at Haifa Airport. The line is operated by Air Malta narrow body jets, and is marketed by the companies Issta and Israir. At this point, three daily flights operated from the airport, two to Larnaca and one to Paphos. Minister of Transportation, Brigadier General Miri Regev: “Connecting the north and the south to the center of the country is for me a strategic social and economic goal of the highest order. I welcome the return to operation of the airport in Haifa, with the opening of a regular flight to Cyprus. There is no need for the residents of Haifa and the north to have to come to Israel for every short vacation or business trip. I call on more European airlines to operate direct routes to Haifa, for the benefit of the residents of the north as well as for tourists who wish to reach

the many tourist sites in the north of the country”. An airport in Haifa was established by the British in 1934 and was the first international airport in Israel. Over the years, international air activity moved to Lod Airport, later Ben Gurion Airport, but most of the time international flights were also made from Haifa, mainly to nearby destinations including Egypt, Jordan and especially Cyprus, which is only a 50-minute flight away. The activity in the field is limited due to the length of the runway, which currently does not allow the landing of large planes. Plans to extend the route are examined from time to time, but encounter difficulties due to the density and the many needs along the coastal strip in Haifa Bay, which includes leading civilian ports, a military port of the Navy, Israeli shipyards and more.

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July 2023

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Israel Travel News • 13

AVIATION

July 2023

AIRLINE INDUSTRY PAINTS A PROMISING PICTURE: 9.8 BILLION USD REVENUE IN 2023

Airline industry operating profits are expected to reach 22.4 billion USD in 2023, which is more than double the 10.1 billion USD operating profit estimated for 2022

I ATA announced an expected strengthening of airline industry profitability in an upgrade of its outlook for 2023. Airline industry net profits are expected to reach $9.8 billion in 2023 (1.2% net profit margin) which is more than double the previous forecast of $4.7 billion (December 2022). Airline industry operating profits are expected to reach $22.4 billion in 2023, much improved over the December forecast of a $3.2 billion operating profit. It is also more than double the $10.1 billion operating profit estimated for 2022. Some 4.35 billion people are expected to travel in 2023,

which is closing in on the 4.54 billion who flew in 2019. Cargo volumes are expected to be 57.8 million tons, which has slipped below the 61.5 million tons carried in 2019 with a sharp slowing of international trade volumes. Total revenues are expected to grow 9.7% year over year to $803 billion. This is the first time that industry revenues will top the $800 billion mark since 2019 ($838 billion). Expense growth is expected to be contained to an 8.1% annual increase. “Airline financial

COVID-19 restrictions earlier in the year than anticipated. Cargo revenues remain above pre-pandemic levels even though volumes have not. And, on the cost side, there is some relief. Jet fuel prices, although still high, have moderated over the first half of the year,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General. The return to net profitability, even with a 1.2% net profit margin, is a major achievement. First, it was achieved at a time of significant economic uncertainties. And second, it follows the deepest losses in aviation’s history ($183.3 billion of net losses for 2020-2022 (inclusive) for an average net profit margin of -11.3% over

that period). It should be noted that the airline industry entered the COVID-19 crisis at the end of a historic profit streak that saw an average net profit margin of 4.2% for the 2015-2019 period.

“Economic uncertainties have not dampened the desire to travel, even as ticket prices absorbed elevated fuel costs. After

deep COVID-19 losses, even a net profit margin of 1.2% is something to celebrate! But with airlines just making $2.25 per passenger on average, repairing damaged balance sheets and providing investors with sustainable returns on their capital will continue to be a challenge for many airlines,” said Walsh.

performance in 2023 is beating expectations. Stronger profitability is

supported by several positive developments. China lifted

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HOTELS

BROWN HOTELS LAUNCH THE THREE NEW PROPERTIES IN THE RED SEA OF EILAT

The hotel group’s latest expansion brings the vibrant energy of Tel Aviv to the seaside city of Eilat, with the opening of Brown Eilat, Brown Lighthouse Eilat and Brown Red Sea

I nternational hotel group, Brown Eilat, Brown Lighthouse Eilat and Brown Red Sea – in the city of Eilat, in Southern Israel. With Brown Eilat situated along the Peace Lagoon near the northern beach of Eilat, and Brown Lighthouse Eilat and Brown Red Sea located centrally amongst the city’s amenities, these three unique hotels are the first Israel properties by Brown Hotels to launch outside of Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, invigorating this seaside town with the up-beat energy of Tel Hotels, has announced the opening of three new hotel properties – Brown Aviv. A region long-favored by domestic travelers, Eilat has gained popularity with international tourists due to its year- round sunny climes and its increased accessibility since the opening of the

Ramon International Airport in 2019. To meet the demands of this new wave of tourism, Brown Hotels introduces Brown Eilat, a cozy, 84-room adult-friendly boutique hotel with a retro aesthetic, Brown Lighthouse Eilat, a well-equipped, 152-room resort reminiscent of its well- established Tel Aviv counterpart, and Brown Red Sea, a 154-room stylish resort conveniently located adjacent to the Seven Stars Mall opening later this year in the VAT-free city haven. Situated amongst the city’s bars and restaurants is Brown Eilat, an adult-friendly boutique hotel with an aesthetic inspired by Miami South Beach of the 1930’s. The hotel maintains the retro design of the original Brown Hotel, presenting 84 stylish rooms and suites with a Copacabana

aesthetic. With a choice of five room categories – ‘Urban Room’, ‘Terrace Room’, ‘Classic Room’, ‘Studio’ and ‘Junior Suite’ – each offers a waterfall shower room, luxury bathrobes and fine Egyptian cotton linens and towels, with the addition of private balconies, private jacuzzi baths and terraces for some of the larger rooms and suites. With an extensive amenity complex, Brown Eilat presents a cocktail bar, a swimming pool and a vibrant boutique where guests can pick up locally-sourced vintage items. For its culinary offering, Brown Hotels has brought ‘CENA’, its Italian concept from Tel Aviv, presenting a relaxed menu of Italian and Mediterranean classics with a backdrop of the Red Sea for the perfect chill-out eatery to experience Eilat. Brown Lighthouse Eilat is a 152-room-and-

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July 2023

March 2020

suite resort manifesting the urban design aesthetic of Tel Aviv on Eilat’s coastline. With a plethora of shops, bars, restaurants and beautiful beaches all within a short distance, the hotel is ideally situated for the perfect Red Sea family getaway. The recently opened hotel offers a swimming pool and sun loungers, a premium adults- only sun terrace which overlooks the Edom mountains and the coastline with surrounding suites that have terraces with private jacuzzi baths, the renowned Brown Hotels Mediterranean breakfast buffet and a kids complex which offers a range of family activities, Gymboree, movie screenings and more. With a calming colour palette of earthy tones, with clean lines and natural wood furnishings, Brown Lighthouse Eilat presents multiple room categories to choose from – ‘Classic’ and ‘Balcony’ terrace rooms, ‘Penthouse’ suites and a number of spacious ‘Family’ suites Hotels in Israel must also deal with a multitude of regulations set forth by the government and this can often become a major headache. While the government has been working to some extent to minimize red tape, there is still a long way to go. housekeeping. Being in the service industry in Israel, getting good staff to wait, to cook, to clean, to staff reception, is not easy. The pressure on the hotels is to constantly increase wages. It is not only the salary alone, but also the costs around that. We have five thousand employees. We have five thousand families relying on us. That is a lot of weight on our shoulders. I worry about that. I worry about the manpower. I worry about development because we are at the height of craziness now. It is a seller’s market and people are asking ridiculous prices.” “Minister of Tourism Yariv Levin has been very good for the business,” Nissenbaum said. “I think he made some really wise decisions with Israel’s resources and marketed Israel in the right way. Can more be done? Absolutely. The PR we have outside is not where it needs to be.”

which can accommodate parents and up to 5 kids – all of which feature a bathtub or a waterfall shower, quality bath products from Molton Brown, Egyptian cotton linen

furnishings, an impressive swimming pool lined sun loungers for soaking up the rays, a pool resto-bar serving up fresh Mediterranean dishes and signature Nissenbaum said he doesn’t believe Israel’s efforts to create a star graded system for Israel’s hotels will work. “The only thing people look at today is what the travel agents and social media are saying.” “We have enough Anglo-Saxon tourists, we need to spend money on really good people who are out there, talking about Israel. There are a lot of people who are scared to come.” “My worry is that someone who is not as connected to the prime minister will enter the office and they won’t be given the budget and it will be worse than it is now,” he said. “Ninety percent of the focus is right. I wish Levin would stay.” cocktails, a spa complex with an extensive menu of rejuvenating treatments and fully-equipped gym. With rooms to suit every traveller Brown Red Sea offers a ‘Standard’, ‘Superior’, ‘Terrace’, ‘Garden’ or ‘Tulip Suite’, which are all pleasantly designed with a blend of natural elements and feature ensuite bathrooms. The ‘Terrace Rooms’ offer sunny balconies and ‘Garden Rooms’ offer guests private, park-facing gardens. The supersized ‘Tulip Suites’ each feature a separate bedroom and living room, a balcony with park or pool views, plush double beds, large wardrobes, spacious ensuite bathrooms and a kitchenette. Every hotel in Israel must somehow set itself apart from the others. According to Nissenbaum, “each hotel has its niche and each tries to expand beyond that niche. Everyone thinks they are the best; that is not always true. We do have that reputation out there. We are the market leader in Jerusalem, Eilat and Haifa and we are considered the luxury player.” “In our hotels, you will experience local Israeli flavor at the highest level,” he said. “For Israel, this is the best service that you are going to get.” Situated amongst the city’s bars and restaurants is Brown Eilat, an adult-friendly boutique hotel with an aesthetic inspired by Miami South Beach of the 1930’s

and towels and bathrobes. Many of these rooms benefit from spacious balconies and terraces with private Jacuzzis, which look out across the pool, Eilat’s Marina and the Red Sea.

With the surrounding desert the main source

of inspiration, Brown Red Sea is a comfortable 154- room hotel that manifests a

warm and relaxing sandy aesthetic, with an air of nostalgia sweeping through this revamped retreat. Maintaining Brown Hotels’ boutique vibe, Brown Red Sea presents a plush and welcoming lobby decorated in natural hue and stylish

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Israel Travel News • 53

HOTELS

A NEW HOTEL FOR THE JACOB CHAIN: JACOB HOTEL EILAT

The Jacob hotel chain renews its first hotel in the city of Eilat and opens “Jacob Eilat” after an extensive and thorough renovation

T he hotel in Eilat joins the five other hotels of the Jacob chain – Bat Sheva in Jerusalem, Sheinkin in Tel Aviv, Jacob Tiberias, Sea Life Nahariya Resort and Hadera Resort. The Jacob Eilat Hotel is located in the new hotel area at the entrance to the city of Eilat, next to the Ice Mall and a short walk from the entertainment centers, the promenade and the best restaurants in the city. The hotel is suitable for all types of populations, from young people, adults, families and couples. The hotel underwent an extensive renovation in which all the infrastructure and public areas were renewed, which were redesigned with natural vegetation

and seating areas. The hotel lobby is spacious and includes a food and drink bar open all day and a panoramic view of the pool. The swimming pools have been renovated and resurfaced, including a large swimming pool with dozens of comfortable sunbeds for all guests and a swimming pool for toddlers. A pampering pool bar was established in the complex, which includes a menu for the whole family with a wide variety of main dishes, snacks, drinks and ice creams. In addition, a bar will be opened with cocktails and quality alcohol for those who wish to spend a relaxed evening in the hotel complex. The hotel staff is very helpful, courteous and meets the guests’

needs quickly and with a smile. The hotel includes 157 rooms (some with a balcony) spread over 5 floors. The rooms are equipped with smart TV screens (including sports 5+), a private bathroom with quality toiletries, a mini bar, a safe and more. The hotel has a new dining room that has been completely renovated and furnished in an innovative design, rich and varied meals made from fresh, high-quality ingredients, as well as indulgent gluten- free dishes. Breakfast includes fresh salads that are cut on the spot, selected cheeses, pastries, a selection of fish, fresh breads, borax baked on the spot, a selection of homemade pies, an omelette making station, natural juices and more.

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July 2023

AVIA MAGEN WAS ELECTED VICE PRESIDENT OF THE ISRAEL HOTEL ASSOCIATION A t the hotel association council meeting held at the end of May 2023 at the “Dan Panorama”

association. The association’s council also approved the appointment of Anat Starik-Dahan, the deputy general manager of the “Setai, Herbert Samuel and Orchid” chain, to the position of chairman of the association’s marketing committee. Starik-Dahan returns to her position as the chairman of a marketing committee focused on promoting tourism to and in Israel. Also, Aharon Samuel, CEO of the “Ganei- Yam” hotel in Jerusalem and Yair Peled, CEO of the “Shalom” hotel in Jerusalem, were elected to serve as members of the Association Council.

hotel in Tel Aviv, Avia Magen – CEO of the Fattal chain, was elected to the position of vice president of the Israel Hotel Association. Avia Magen will replace Sylvie Cohen- Gabay, VP of the “Isrotel” chain, who retired from this position about a year ago. The presidency of the association is headed by President Eli Cohen and two representatives of individual hotels, and two representatives of chains serve in it. The presidency of the hotel association is the body that outlines the policy of the

This is due to changes in roles in the Israel Hotel Association

Situated at the entrance to the town of Arad and just a 25-minute drive from the Dead Sea, the Inbar Hotel has 100 modern rooms with cable T.V, complimentary safety deposit box and air conditioning. The hotel also has an indoor heated swimming pool and sauna. Arad,located in the Negev Desert in the southeast of Israel,is 600 meters above sea level and is blessed with a refreshingly arid,healthy climate.Because of its close proximity to the Dead Sea,the Inbar Hotel is an ideal starting point for organized tours and desert trips throughout the Negev. Other major tourist sites, such as Masada, the Ein Gedi Nature reserve, Tel Arad, Sussia, Sodom Mountain and Ein Bokek, are all within close driving distance of the hotel and easily accessible. The hotel’s reservations center will be happy to assist in organizing tours and desert jeep trips as well as providing information on any other outdoor activities.

38 Yehuda St., Arad 89109 Israel | Tel. for reservations: 972-8-9973303 E-mail: inbar_hotel@bezeqint.net Website: www.hotel-inbar.com

HOTELS

July 2023

The Blend Hotel in Nazareth with the “Rooftop” restaurant and the Sofia Kinneret hotel with the “Altmira” Restaurant TWO GOLDEN CROWN HOTELS OPEN ROOFTOP RESTAURANTS

T he Golden Crown hotel chain continues to expand and opened a new boutique hotel in the heart of the old city of Nazareth with an investment of over 20 million ILS. The hotel called “The Blend”, managed by the chain, is the chain’s third hotel in Nazareth and the fifth hotel in the chain. Now the chain invested in a Rooftop restaurant on the roof of the hotel, with an open panoramic view of the city of Nazareth from which you can watch the entire city! The “ROOF TOP” will serve the hotel guests and will also be open to the general public who will come to the city and want to experience it fully, Including the existence of boutique events, which combine a rich bar and quality, current and trendy food. The Sofia Kinneret hotel is opening the “Altmira” Restaurant on the 7th floor.

Altamira offers a varied Mediterranean dairy menu, appetizers and main dishes that combine types of fish, salads and pastas inspired by the Galilean cuisine. Among the dishes on

the menu: bream fillet served on a bed of risotto, Altamira pasta with refined spiciness, ravioli, salmon tartare, types of fresh salads and rich cocktails, wines and quality alcohol.

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It's one thing to say you love Israel; It's another thing to do something about it

July 2023

Location & Staff 9.3

Ariela Schmida Doron General Manager, Jerusalem Gold Hotel We invite all Friends to come up to Jerusalem and... Stay in the Beautiful Jerusalem Gold Hotel

Contact your Travel Agent! Jerusalem Gold Hotel 234 Jaffa Road, 94383 Jerusalem, Israel

Fax: 972-2-501-3344 | Website: www.jerusalemgold.com Across street to the NEW fast train station from & to Ben Gurion Airport 1-888-mygoldhotel (694-6534) or 972-2-501-3333

Israel Travel News • 21

HOTELS

July 2023

PRIMA HOTELS WILL BUILD ANOTHER HOTEL IN NETANYA LA-VIE - Luxury Urban Tower: The new luxury hotel will cost of approximately 60 million ILS W ith a clear future vision to appeal to the lifestyle segment audience, alongside the growth of domestic and business tourism, the Prima Hotels chain expands and strengthens its boutique hotel sector, and with the collaboration of “Keren Segula Development”, the two will the project: Luxury Urban Tower – LA-VIE” – A tower that will include luxury apartments and a hotel in the city of Netanya. With the completion of the construction process, the Prima hotel chain is expected to inaugurate a second luxury hotel, next to the David Tower hotel, also located in Netanya, and to reach a total number of 17 hotels throughout the country. The Prima Hotels chain purchased the rights to the hotel from the “Keren Segula Development” for approximately 60 million ILS. The construction of the tower, on King David St. in Netanya, will begin in the near future and the hotel is expected to open its doors to guests at the end of 2025. The new hotel of the Prima Hotels chain is expected to include 72 rooms and suites, including balconies with sea views. The project was designed by the architectural firm Raziel Architects, who specialize in the construction of luxury towers, including hotels. The hotel is expected to offer its guests a restaurant and a luxury spa with a gym and an indoor swimming pool. The location of the hotel is in proximity to the city center and its proximity to the beach just a few steps away. The hotel will have a spectacular view of Netanya’s coastline, as well as easy access to the popular Sironit beach and the entertainment and recreation complexes including restaurants, cafes, shops and lively bars located next door. Avi Dor, CEO of the Prima Hotels chain: “We are happy about the addition of the new hotel, as part of the strategic vision of the Prima Hotels chain for the near future, with the aim of strengthening the appeal to diverse tourist audiences and matching the trend of strengthening domestic tourism and business in this type of hotel category”.

A NEW HOTEL HAS BEEN LAUNCHED IN ISRAEL: IN THE CITY OF RISHON LEZION Raphael House Hotel - the first luxury hotel in Rishon Lezion was officially opened with an investment of 20 million ILS

W ith an investment of more than 20 million ILS, the boutique hotel “Raphael House” was launched – the first hotel in Rishon Lezion. The hotel has 30 spacious rooms and a luxurious suite designed in a classic and elegant style that corresponds with the history of the building that was preserved and built in the 18th century by Baron Rothschild. In the past, the building was used as the officials’ house and the city hall, and over the years it has preserved its character, style and roots. Due to the history of the building, its concept – feel Rothschild – was also derived. The hotel was founded by businessman and hotel owner Yoad Sarusi, a resident of Rishon Lezion himself. The hotel is built to the highest standards and qualities with an emphasis on the smallest details – both at the product level, and at the service level down to the smallest details so that every guest feels no less than the baron himself. When you arrive at the hotel, you will receive a glass of champagne and a personal escort to your room. During your stay, you can enjoy a spacious and beautiful patio full of vegetation,

good music and a business lounge that will provide coffee, tea, water, tea infusions and other treats throughout the day, alongside a health corner, cookies and crisps. The rooms are equipped with exclusive and advanced accessories: a Nespresso coffee machine, tea infusions, a 55- inch Sony IPTV smart TV with a connection to Netflix and Yes channels, exclusive edition sweet popcorn (on arrival at the hotel), mini fridge, 2 bottles of water, slippers and soft and pleasant robes. The location of the hotel in the center of the city makes it a magnet for all the cultural, historical and entertainment centers of the city that are close to it and that’s not all – because the hotel will offer its guests a rich content and cultural package that includes unique collaborations with the city’s strong cultural institutions: from LIVE Park Rishon Lezion to The cultural hall in the city.

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