Discover the allure of Israel through the eyes of seasoned traveler and writer Tom Thumb. With a decade of extensive exploration in Israel and beyond, Tom shares his unique perspective on the country's most captivating and romantic spots, practical travel tips, and the vibrant culture that makes Israel a must-visit destination. Dive into an interview that unveils the heart of Israel, from bustling cities to serene deserts, and learn how to navigate this diverse land with ease and safety.
Norm Goldman, the esteemed editor of SketchandTravel.com and BookPleasures.com, recently had the pleasure of interviewing Tom Thumb, a travel writer with a penchant for the roads less traveled. Tom Thumb, known for his unconventional approach to travel writing, has spent the last ten years traversing Israel, South America, Spain, and the Far East. His experiences have fueled articles for various magazines and his own project, an alternative travel guide titled ROAD JUNKY.COM.
Tom's vision for RoadJunky.com was to infuse travel guides with the spirit of adventure, offering a subjective and inspiring introduction to the world. He aimed to move beyond the formulaic structure of mainstream guides, which often prioritize commercial appeal over authentic travel experiences. RoadJunky.com stands out as the rebellious counterpart to the industry, challenging political correctness and serving as a genuine resource for travelers seeking to delve deeper into the cultures they encounter.
When asked about his fascination with Israel, Tom recalls his initial encounters with Israeli backpackers in India. Despite their reputation for being insular and brusque, Tom found a depth to their character that resonated with him. He admired their communal spirit and direct communication style, which eventually led to his acceptance into their close-knit circles.
Tom highlights eight destinations in Israel that capture the country's diversity and romance:
Tom explains that Israel's bus system is highly efficient, thanks to the reliance of soldiers on public transport to visit family. While trains are effective, they don't cover the entire country. Renting a car is the best option for flexibility and convenience, allowing travelers to traverse the nation from north to south in about seven hours.
Contrary to common perceptions, Tom feels incredibly safe in Israel, even in the early hours of the morning. He notes the absence of a drinking culture and minimal street crime. While acknowledging the risk of political violence, he emphasizes the low likelihood of such incidents affecting travelers.
Travelers need not worry about language difficulties in Israel. With a highly educated population, many Israelis are multilingual and speak fluent English, making communication easy for English-speaking visitors.
Israel's cost of living is comparable to Southern Europe, with accommodation and entertainment being the most significant expenses. However, food and clothing are relatively affordable. Tom suggests that travelers can live comfortably on around $800 a month, with a daily budget of $40-80 depending on desired comfort levels.
Given Israel's compact size, a two-week trip can encompass a wide range of experiences. Tom recommends starting in Tel Aviv, moving on to Jerusalem, and then driving through the desert to the Dead Sea and Negev. The trip can conclude in the lush northern regions, offering a refreshing contrast to the desert landscapes.
The best times to visit Israel are during the spring and autumn months, particularly April and May, when the weather is pleasant, and the country is in bloom.
Tom concludes by expressing his admiration for Israel's intellectual and warm culture, a fusion of European and Arab influences. He advises travelers to bring a sense of humor to appreciate the Israeli chutzpah fully.
For more information about travel to Israel, click here.
In terms of interesting stats, Israel's tourism industry has seen a significant rebound post-pandemic. According to the Israel Ministry of Tourism, the country welcomed over 2.6 million tourists in 2022, a substantial increase from the previous year, signaling a strong recovery and growing interest in Israel as a travel destination (Israel Ministry of Tourism).
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