Real experience of people from chats on «Transport» in Israel — as it is, no fluff. For your case — ask Luky.
From real experience
When renting a car in Israel with an Israeli driving license, a credit card in the driver's name is typically required for a security deposit. This deposit, which can be significant (e.g., 5000 ILS), is generally separate from full insurance coverage and is intended to cover potential fines, fuel discrepancies, or other incidental charges. While individual experiences may vary (e.g., one user reported no deposit required at Shlomo Sixt with full insurance), the standard practice among most rental companies is to require a deposit even with comprehensive insurance.
Public bus travel (e.g., to Eilat) on Egged buses does not require advance online booking or separate digital ticket purchasing in many cases. Payment is handled directly inside the bus using the 'Rav-Kav' card (the standard Israeli public transport smart card) via the card reader installed on board.
When transporting an acoustic guitar to Israel:
- Shipping: Can be expensive for large items. High risk of loss or damage without clear accountability. For valuable guitars, customs may levy an 18% VAT on the declared value. Standard postal services are generally operational.
- Air Travel (Carry-on/Cabin): For large guitars in hard cases, airlines may require purchasing an additional seat (often preferred near a window). Anecdotal evidence suggests some flight attendants may store guitars in vertical compartments within the cabin, but this is not a guaranteed policy and depends on the airline and flight.
- Air Travel (Checked Baggage): Placing the guitar in a hard case and checking it as baggage is an option, though still subject to airline baggage policies and potential damage risk.
To replace a lost Israeli driver's license: 1. Official Website: Log in to gov.il, navigate to the driver's license section, click 'Copy of Driver's License', and pay the fee online; a temporary copy can be printed immediately, and the plastic card arrives by mail. 2. Israel Post: Visit any Israel Post branch with your ID (Teudat Zehut), pay the fee, and obtain a temporary permit; the permanent card will be mailed to your registered address.
If luggage is lost, the passenger should obtain a PIR (Property Irregularity Report) with a 10-digit code. Use this code on the WorldTracer website or the airline's tracking portal. Responsibility lies with the airline, not the airport. In case of delay, keep receipts for essential items as airlines are typically required to reimburse these expenses.
When booking Red Wings flights between Moscow and Tel Aviv, consider booking round-trip tickets rather than one-way segments, as the latter can be significantly more expensive. Adding baggage as an extra service immediately after purchasing a light-fare ticket can also be more cost-effective.
Paying for taxi services in Israel with cash is possible, but 'unlicensed' taxi drivers (scammers) often solicit passengers at the airport. They may demand amounts significantly higher than agreed. Recommended practice: use licensed ride-hailing apps like Gett or Yango to ensure price transparency and safety. Note that app drivers may sometimes refuse cash, so confirm preferences in-app.
Travel time from Jerusalem to Ashkelon, Israel: By car, approximately 1 hour 20 minutes without traffic, or 1.5-2 hours during peak times. By train (via Tel Aviv), approximately 2-2.5 hours. For public transport planning, the Moovit app is recommended for accurate routing and schedules.
Israeli driver's license renewal for non-residents: renewal is typically for 5 years, regardless of age or residency status, if the driver was previously categorized as a 'young driver'. The process is handled via the Ministry of Transport website, and the card is delivered by mail.