What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Israel?
We asked people in Israel if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!...
"Sometimes I still go to a store on Friday night/Saturday to find it closed for Shabat, or one of the many Israeli/Jewish holidays I was unaware of," wrote a member who made the move to Kfar Saba, Israel.
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"It is important to be respectful of the culture and customs of Israel. It is considered rude to make negative comments about the country or its people. It is also important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. It is also important to be aware of the Sabbath, which is observed from sundown on Friday to sundown on Saturday, and to avoid doing any work or using electronic devices during this time. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and to avoid making any comments that could be seen as insensitive or offensive," explained one expat living in Israel.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before retiring in Israel?
- How do I meet people in Israel?
- What is life like in Israel?
- Is there a lot of crime in Israel?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Israel accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Israel like?
- Is the cost of living in Israel high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Israel?
- What are healthcare services like in Israel?
- Is the cost of living in Israel high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in Israel?
- What is the weather like in Israel?
- Are there good restaurants in Israel?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Israel?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Israel?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Israel?
- What do I need to know when buying property in Israel?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in Israel?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Israel?
If you live in Israel, newcomers to Israel would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.