Israel launches Web site, Hotline to Address Conflict

July 27, 2006

Israel launches Web site, Hotline to Address Conflict
July 27, 2006 – Israel’s Ministry of Tourism has launched a temporary section in its Web site, http://www.goisrael.com/, to specifically address travelers’ questions and concerns due to the violence in Lebanon and the north of Israel.

"Travelers want to know how the events in Israel will affect their visit to the country," explains Arie Sommer, Israel’s Commissioner for Tourism for North and South America, "and the information we provide should answer their questions."

Israel’s tourism ministry said the section, entitled "What Today’s Headlines Mean For Tourists to Israel," is to be updated regularly and provides level-headed information. It added that there are currently some 100,000 overseas tourists in Israel; a large number are rearranging their travel schedules to take them to the center and south of the country, rather than the north, which has suffered rocket attacks.

"Our job is to provide travelers with everything they need to know to ensure they have a pleasurable visit to Israel," Sommer added.

IMOT also has opened a hotline designed to address tourists’ and industry questions. The hot line is available 24-hours a day, seven days a week. Service is available in English, French, Hebrew and other languages.

The hotline provides information regarding flights, travel within the country, hotels, group tours and more can be provided, according to IMOT. The hotline is available to those still overseas planning to travel to Israel, tourists in the country, to Israelis traveling domestically, as well as to tourism professionals.

From the U.S., the hotline is accessible by dialing 972-3-5207600. Questions can be faxed to 972-3-5207612/5 or e-mailed to feliw@tourism.gov.il.