Shopping in Israel: what to bring from Israel, where to buy souvenirs and fashion brands. Markets, outlets, famous shopping centers in Israel. Expert advice and reviews of tourists about shopping in Israel on the "Subtleties of Tourism".

• Tours for the New Year Worldwide
• Hot tours Worldwide

Israel cannot be called a mecca of high fashion, and the prices here are quite high, nevertheless, shopping in this country is a pleasure. Israelis are very fond of shopping, and the service in shopping centers and shops here is at the highest level: they will give everything they can try, offer a discount on the second or third product, and advise what really suits you.

Shopping here is not only pleasant, but also convenient: many sellers speak Russian, and cards are accepted almost everywhere, including markets.

Shop opening hours

Most shops in Israel are open from Sunday to Thursday from 9:00 to 19:00, some close later, around 20:00-21:00. On Fridays, almost everything closes in the afternoon (around 13:00), and does not work until Sunday morning - Shabbat. Large malls in cities usually open earlier - around 8:00 and close later - at 22:00. Canyons (“non-religious” shopping centers in Israel) also work on Saturdays, such as in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Haifa, Eilat, etc.

Some cities have a tradition of closing shops on Tuesdays - this must be clarified on the spot, but this usually does not apply to the capital and other large cities. Everything is also closed not only on Shabbat, but also on major Jewish holidays, and the holiday itself and 1-2 days before will be a day off.

Muslim shops in Israel are closed on Fridays, and Christian shops are closed on Sundays. The situation is the same with public catering - you cannot find kosher food on Saturdays in this country. Markets in Israel are open from morning until late in the evening - they usually do not have an exact schedule, but on Saturdays almost all are closed.

Previous photo 1/ 1 Next photo

Sales

Sales in Israel are timed to coincide with big holidays. First of all, this applies to Jewish holidays: the stores offer the most generous discounts on the eve of Pesach (March-April) and before Rosh Hashanah (September-November). In fact, discount seasons in Israel, although dictated by the religious calendar, coincide with the end of the season - first winter, and then summer. Muslim holidays in Israel are also important, so in June, when Ramadan ends and devout Muslims can finally afford to shop, many stores also offer discounts.

Sales in Israel rarely take place immediately and everywhere - as a rule, they selectively concern one group of goods. For example, if a shoe sale starts, then all shoe stores within a shopping center or block will participate in it.

The most generous discounts in Israel - Boxing day. These are total sales that are held twice a year, at the end of the summer and winter seasons. In part, they may coincide with the discount seasons for the holidays, but Boxing day lasts only three days, and discounts reach 50-60%. The exact dates of the event should be clarified directly in the shopping center.

Previous photo 1/ 1 Next photo

What to buy in Israel

Clothing and footwear

All popular European brands are represented in Israeli shopping centers and stores: Zara, H&M, Fox, Golf, Nike, Mango, American Eagle, CAT, Ecco, etc. However, their prices here are significantly higher than in Europe and even in Russia, while that the range is about the same. It is best to buy clothes in Israel in shopping centers and multi-brand boutiques, such as H&O and Mashbir. There you can buy not only clothes and shoes, but also cosmetics and household goods.

It is worth paying attention to local brands, they will be slightly more expensive than the European mass market, but the quality is very high:

• Tamnoon - inexpensive casual clothing for men and women;
• Zebra - sportswear and casual wear for the whole family;
• Cassidi - fashionable women's clothing;
• Kastro - youth clothing;
• Delta - high-quality knitwear;
• ONOT - plus size men's and women's clothing.

With shoes in Israel, the situation is about the same as with clothing: European brands are unreasonably expensive, but local ones are very worthy. The Israeli brand BeautiFeel produces very high quality shoes made of genuine leather (only expensive and only Italian material). Prices start at 650 ILS, but these shoes are definitely worth the money. Prices on the page are for November 2018.

Among democratic shoe brands, Free Move, Disco Rosso, Gali and TOGO are interesting. Sales in shoe stores in Israel are more frequent than in others, so buying a new pair can be a really profitable investment. The lowest prices are in shoe outlets that are in every major city (as a rule, they are located in popular shopping districts in the center). Here you can count on discounts of up to 80%, and the right sizes are almost always available.

Previous photo 1/ 1 Next photo

Products for children

Children in Israel are treated with great trepidation, so they do everything for them only the best. Children's clothing, toys, cosmetics and more - all of this is of the highest quality, and prices are not higher than Russian prices for similar products.

Check out the following shops:

• Shilav is Israel's largest chain of goods for children, including newborns. Here you can buy toys, clothes, cribs, bedding, etc. There are shops in almost every shopping center in Tel Aviv, Herzliya and Haifa;
• Fox baby - children's clothing for those who appreciate fashion from infancy, very stylish things even in the smallest, almost "toy" sizes;
• KIWI - inexpensive children's clothing of good quality;
• Parparim - children's clothing with cartoon prints, a large selection of carnival costumes.

Previous photo 1/ 1 Next photo

Cosmetics

In Israel, it is worth buying cosmetics based on mud and Dead Sea minerals. They perfectly cleanse, improve complexion and hair structure, and also solve more serious problems: they treat acne, psoriasis and slow down skin aging.

The most popular Israeli brand is Ahava, these products are known for their natural composition, shampoos, balms, body scrubs with salt and creams for hands and feet are especially good. Another good brand is Premier, here, for example, you can find an inexpensive but really working face cream. Cosmetic brand Sea of ​​Spa is about the same level of quality and price category: just good cosmetics for the face and body for those who do not have serious skin problems. Other less popular, but also high-quality brands: Beauty Life, Mon Platin, Vero Nika, Yes to…, Kedem, Minus 417, etc. Prices for face cream start from 15 ILS, for mud from the Dead Sea - from 10 ILS for 600 gr, disposable hair or face masks - from 7 ILS, for body scrubs with sea salt - from 60 ILS.

Fakes are not uncommon in Israel, they are especially common in popular resorts and tourist areas. It is worth looking for really high-quality products in Israel only in branded specialized stores and pharmacies, but not in souvenir shops and supermarkets.

In Israel, you can also buy more powerful cosmetics without a prescription to fight skin diseases: acne, psoriasis, eczema, etc. The concentration of minerals in such preparations is high, penetration into the skin is very deep, therefore, consultation with a cosmetologist is desirable before use. If it is problematic to visit a specialist, then in almost all stores where this cosmetics is sold, there is a beautician on duty who will help determine the type of skin and choose the right products.

Professional cosmetic brands include:

• Dr.Sea - slows down the aging process, enhances the regeneration of skin cells, there are products for face and hair care;
• Holy Land (HL) - cosmetics based on AHA acids, peels and other preparations that effectively cleanse and renew the skin, there are excellent lines for problematic and oily skin;
• Mon Platin - cosmetics based on essential oils and natural herbal ingredients, works to slow down the aging process and maintain skin elasticity;
• Christina - slows down the aging process of the skin;
• GiGi - high-quality skin care cosmetics.

Previous photo 1/ 1 Next photo

Jewelry

Israel is known for its diamonds. Cut stones and diamond jewelry can be purchased at the branches of the Diamond Exchange, which are located in Tel Aviv, Netanya, Eilat, Jerusalem and other cities. Tours are organized here for tourists, where you can learn about all the cutting processes and see how a real shining miracle is obtained from an ordinary stone. Each branch of the Diamond Exchange has a jewelry store where you can buy both stones and jewelry.

The Diamond Exchange does not sell diamonds at retail, the minimum purchase amount is 3000 USD. Prices for stones start from 200 USD.

On the exchange, you can choose a diamond of any size, choose the quality of processing and the shape of the cut, and even color. In addition, you can choose whether you just want a stone or a piece of jewelry. Please note that it will take 5-6 days to complete your order. For each stone, the buyer is issued a passport, each stone purchased here can be exchanged at any time for another (more expensive) with an additional charge.

Prices for diamond jewelry in retail jewelry stores start from 300-400 USD for a ring or earrings.

Eilat stone jewelry is an Israeli exclusive. This is a very beautiful malachite-azure mineral, which local craftsmen combine with gold and silver. Despite the fact that the stocks of this material are depleted, prices are still quite affordable: a small decoration can be purchased for 120-150 ILS.

In addition to diamonds, Israel also has very high quality gold. The best stores are Rotem Jewelry (selling white and yellow gold, pearls and diamonds for over 100 years), Stones Jewelry (exotic jewelry made of silver and gold), Ronit Cohen Jewelry (author's gold and silver jewelry from the owner of the store, made in the original style).

Silver in Israel is interesting for its stylish design. The most popular silver jewelry store is Magnolia, where there is a large selection of not only jewelry, but also silver tableware, candlesticks and other interior items.

Where else to buy silver:

• DEN'O - silver of the highest standard, jewelry in ethnic style with turquoise, pearls and other stones.
• Grass! - unique silver jewelry in a romantic-ethnic style, some of them are handmade.
• Tamir Zuman - silver jewelry with natural semi-precious stones. All products are produced in very small batches, so there are high chances of buying a real exclusive.

Previous photo 1/ 1 Next photo

food and wine

There are a lot of delicious things in Israel, the main gastronomic souvenir is hummus(bean paste with olive oil and paprika). Hummus is sold in any supermarket, as well as in the market, but keep in mind that bulk hummus has a much shorter shelf life.

Dates are also usually brought from Israel, they are excellent here: huge, fleshy and very sweet, the majkhol and deglet nur varieties are considered the most delicious. Dates are sold in boxes of 0.5 kg, you can also buy date paste, which is made without any extraneous additives. Sweet lovers will also like Israeli honey, the assortment is very rich: apple, eucalyptus, citrus, etc., but the most famous is date honey. Honey is sold in the markets (they allow you to try everything before buying), but you can find out the real composition only in supermarkets. The best is the one that is made without the addition of sugar and syrup.

Israeli coffee is also worth a look, especially the local coffee with cardamom. It is sold in supermarkets and tea and coffee shops, in green sealed packages with the image of a cardamom leaf. The grinding is usually fine, so it is best to brew coffee with cardamom in a Turk - so the aroma and taste will be fully revealed. The cost of one package is about 60-70 ILS, everything that is significantly cheaper is most likely a fake.

Israeli olives are no worse than Spanish or Greek ones. If you're lucky, you can find olives packed in tins, as the usual glass containers for Israelis are not very convenient for transportation.

Local wines are not as popular in the world as French or Italian ones, but they are at least interesting - first of all, because they are often produced not on an industrial scale, but in small family wineries. It is best to buy wine there: firstly, you can try everything at the winery, and secondly, it is much cheaper.

The most famous Israeli wine is pomegranate. It is sweetish, slightly tart and has a pronounced pomegranate smell. The best is produced at the Rimon winery, you can buy it both at the winery and in any large supermarket, the cost is about 100 ILS per bottle. Sweet wine lovers will love King David’s (rich red wine of almost ruby ​​color, the price is from 50 ILS per bottle), and fans of white wines will appreciate Chardonnay Reserve Galilee: this is a fruity wine stored in oak barrels (from 70 ILS per bottle). Another interesting variety is Syrah Galilee with a light aroma of fruits and chocolate (from 65 ILS per bottle).

Shopping districts in Israel

In Jerusalem, it is worth going shopping first of all to the Old City - there is a colorful Oriental Bazaar. Ben Yehuda Walking Street is full of shops, souvenir shops, jewelry stores, as well as restaurants and buskers to make shopping more fun. Another convenient area for shopping is Malkha, where there are many shops, as well as the largest shopping complex in the city, Malkha Center (popular European and local brands). For expensive brands and designer clothes, you should go to the Talpiot area - there are also many shops and malls.

In Tel Aviv, for a mass market of European and local production, you need to go to Dizengoff Street (there are shops and a large shopping center), on Shenkik Street there are shops of designer and extravagant clothes and accessories, and on Nahalat Binyamin Street, an artisan market opens on Fridays. Other popular shopping streets are Lewinsky and Herzl, which also have a good selection of shops.

Eilat has a large selection of souvenirs and beach accessories. In addition, it is profitable to buy imported goods here, since they are not subject to VAT, there are a large number of such stores in Taba, the border checkpoint and Ovda airport.

In Haifa, the most profitable and interesting shopping is in shopping centers, as well as on Ben Gurion Boulevard, which also has many shops.

Shopping malls in Israel

Shopping centers in Israel are called "canyons" ("knia" in Hebrew - "purchase"). They are organized in the same way as in Europe and Russia: multi-storey complexes with shops, a food court and entertainment (cinemas, playgrounds, bowling, ice rinks, etc.) The first canyon in Israel, Ayalon, was built in 1985 in the city of Ramat- Ghana (15 minutes by bus from Tel Aviv) and today remains one of the most visited in the country. There are canyons in all major cities, most of them work seven days a week, including on Shabbat.

The largest supermarket chain in Israel is Shufersal (or Super-Sal), there are about 240 stores in the country, they are in almost every city. The range - products, household chemicals, cosmetics, etc. There is a department of organic products, and discounts and promotions are often held here.

Markets

There are markets in every Israeli city. Oriental bazaars are especially colorful: they sell handmade jewelry, ethnic-style clothing, carpets, spices, handicrafts made of leather, straw and olive trees, etc. In Jerusalem, such a bazaar is located on Jaffa Street, in Tel Aviv it is the Carmel market ”, which stretched from Magen David Square to the bus station, other cities also have at least one oriental bazaar.

Food markets can be found in every Israeli city. You can also find food in the oriental bazaars, but the largest selection and low prices are in the food markets: fruits, vegetables, spices, pickles, pastries, sausage, tea and much more. Tel Aviv has a wonderful Levinsky market with a huge selection of fresh seafood, Jerusalem has Mahan Yehuda (don't leave without trying local pastries), and Haifa has Talpiot.

Trading in the markets begins early in the morning, around 6:00-7:00, and ends at sunset. Markets are closed on Saturdays and open until noon on Tuesdays.

In the clothing markets of Israel, they sell mainly fakes for well-known brands (sometimes of quite high quality), as well as good and inexpensive leather products (the processing will most likely be rough, but the quality is good). Collectors and lovers of everything vintage will be pleased with the Israeli flea markets, which are found in almost every city. The largest flea market in Tel Aviv is Shuk HaPishpishim (where you can find real antiques), another slightly smaller one is located at the Dizengoff Center, and the oldest flea market in the country is located in Haifa on Alkalay Street.

What you need to know about Israeli markets

• It is necessary to bargain: persistently, but politely. Without bargaining, the sale of goods does not give the seller any pleasure, and he may consider your behavior impolite. Therefore, prices in the markets are initially always slightly overpriced.
• When buying several units of goods, you can safely ask for a discount.
• You can try all products except those in the package. It does not oblige you to purchase.
• Fruits and vegetables can be typed with your own hand, in the case of berries, this is done by the seller.
• You can ask the fish to be gutted and cleaned, it's free. But you will have to pay for the initial weight.

tax free

In Israel, non-residents of the country can return up to 15% VAT (in Hebrew - maam). Money can be returned not only for goods, but also for services: hotel accommodation, excursions, flights, cruises and rented cars. At the same time, money is not returned for food, tobacco products, appliances and electronics, as well as cameras, film and other goods for filming.

The minimum amount of purchases from which mom is returned is 400 ILS, the larger the amount of purchases, the lower the percentage.

To get a tax refund, you need to fill out a special form in the store (the store must cooperate with the tax-free system) and present it together with your passport at the airport before departure. There are return points at Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv, at Ovda Airport in Eilat, at the seaports of Haifa and Ashdod, as well as at the Rabin border checkpoint in Arava and at Taba and Allenby, on the border with Jordan.

The best places for shopping

All articles about shopping on "Subtleties"

• Austria Vienna
• England London
• Vietnam: Nha Trang, Ho Chi Minh City
• Germany: Berlin, Düsseldorf and Munich
• Georgia: Tbilisi, Batumi
• Hungary: Budapest
• Greece (fur coats): Athens, Crete, Rhodes, Thessaloniki
• Israel: Jerusalem and Tel Aviv
• Spain: Alicante, Barcelona, ​​Valencia, Madrid (and its shops),

We will tell you what souvenirs you can bring from a holiday in Israel. Gathered tips in several areas: products, cosmetics, jewelry and souvenirs.

The Jewish country is original and spiritually rich. When you arrive in Israel, there will be a desire to buy souvenirs for relatives, relatives and friends. Do not buy gifts on the first day in souvenir shops near hotels or at the airport. There will be enough time for shopping.

Souvenirs from Israel: what to bring

Standard magnets, key chains, T-shirts can be bought at any shopping center, but they will not surprise anyone. To buy symbolic souvenirs, visit specialized shops, local markets. And buy religious items in holy places in Jerusalem. Now let's talk about what to buy.

Source: kkabala.com

Red thread

Such a product is a powerful amulet. The red thread is consecrated on the grave of Rachel, the foremother of nations. They tie it on the wrist of the left hand into seven knots. She brings health and good luck. When the thread breaks, it means that it has accumulated a lot of negative energy. Burn it down and buy a new one.

The product cannot be received as a gift, you must buy it yourself. Most often, such threads are sold in Kabbalah centers. The cost varies from 2 shekels (33 rubles).

Kipa

Traditional headdress. Kipu is worn by men. It is a cap that is worn on top of the head. Previously, they were worn only by the priests of the Jerusalem temple. Then they were allowed to put on all men during prayer. Now they are worn even in everyday life. Kippah is considered a symbol of religiosity.

Tourists are offered hats with different designs. There are knitted piles made of natural wool or sewn from expensive fabrics. Decorate with original patterns or embroidery on religious themes. The cost of a headdress varies from 5 shekels (82 rubles).

Source: barev.today

Ceramics and Antiques

When visiting Israel, tourists bring souvenirs from the country in the form of ceramics and antique dishes. Painted objects, which are dominated by blue color and original ornaments, can be bought in the Armenian quarter in Jerusalem. There are low prices for plates, flowerpots, jugs.

If you buy antique dishes, then choose vintage items in licensed stores. And remember, items dated earlier than the 18th century cannot be exported from Israel. To export the rest of the antique dishes, obtain permission from the Antiquities Administration. You will need to pay a tax of 10% of the value of antiques.

Matkot

For children, a souvenir in the form of a game is suitable. Matkot is considered a popular pastime. The game is similar to table tennis. The set includes two wooden rackets and a rubber ball. Balls can be of different colors. They are not chosen for originality. Colors act as markings and indicate the strength of the ball rebound.

You can buy matkot in any gift shop. The cost of the game is from 20 shekels (328 rubles).

Source: spiritualtravels.info

Religious souvenirs

A variety of sacred paraphernalia is brought from the Jewish country. Pay attention to the following religious souvenirs:

• icons of Christ the Savior, Nicholas the Wonderworker and the Virgin of Jerusalem. Perform on stone, wood or canvas. The price is formed from 10 shekels (164 rubles);
• torch of 33 candles. Purchase in Jerusalem and perform the rite of consecration - burning with the Holy Fire. The price of paraffin products - from 4 shekels (65 rubles), and beeswax candles - from 30 shekels (491 rubles);
• Menorah is an ancient Jewish attribute. It is a chandelier for seven candles. It symbolizes 7 churches erected in Asia Minor and 7 planets. The cost of the product is from 40 shekels (655 rubles);
• Hanukkah is the symbol of the holiday of Hanukkah. Made in the form of a candlestick for 9 candles. The price varies. The initial cost is 40 shekels (655 rubles);
• oil - oil with incense. The Jews use it for anointing. Often used for wound healing. It is believed to bring health, strength and vitality. Sold in a small bottle. The cost of the product starts from 35 shekels (573 rubles);
• tales or tallit - a prayer coverlet. Sew from cotton, linen, silk or sheep's wool. The size of the white prayer vestment with stripes on one side is 1 by 1.5 meters. The price of the bedspread is from 60 shekels (982 rubles).

Dead Sea cosmetics are known all over the world. They heal, rejuvenate and improve the appearance of the hair, skin of the face and body. Cosmetics are considered a traditional gift from the Jewish country for friends. Popular products from the following brands:

• Sea of ​​SPA;
• beauty life;
• Ahava;
• Mon Platin;
• Sea of ​​Life;
• Vero Nika;
• Yes to…;
• Kedem;
• doctor sea;
• minus 417.

Often brought, as souvenirs, the following cosmetics:

• face creams - from 8 shekels (131 rubles);
• mud from the Dead Sea - from 10 shekels per 600 gr. (164 rubles);
• sea ​​salt - from 30 shekels (491 rubles);
• hair masks - from 6 shekels (98 rubles);
• body scrub with sea salt - from 60 shekels (981 rubles).

Buy Israeli cosmetics in specialized stores from manufacturers or in local pharmacies. Follow the promotions, sales are constantly going on and you can make a bargain.

What products to bring from Israel

Coming to Israel, try kosher treats. They have a peculiar taste. Spend some money and bring gastronomic gifts to your family and friends.

pomegranate wine

This is the only wine in the world that is made only from pomegranate. It has a tart, rich flavor. Produced at the Rimon winery.

Buy at the winery itself. There you can taste the drink for free and purchase at a low price. A bottle of RimonWinery wine is the best pomegranate wine. It is sold in beautiful packaging. The cost is from 100 shekels (1637 rubles).

Coffee with cardamom

In Israel, they make a fragrant drink with spices. Buy coffee with cardamom and give it to your loved ones and loved ones. Finely ground grains are prepared in a special cezve.

Make sure you don't buy a fake. Coffee is sold in a sealed green bag. The packaging has a cardamom leaf logo. You can buy it in any store or market. The cost is within 60–70 shekels (982–1145 rubles).

Honey

Israeli honey will be a sweet gift. The assortment is large - there are apple, citrus and eucalyptus. But date honey is popular. It is tasty, healthy, will become a substitute for sugar.

Hummus

A kind of pasty snack, with which the Jews eat cakes, pita bread, nuts and even chips. For Russians, the product will be a novelty and may not appeal to everyone. It is chickpea puree. Add olive oil, sesame paste, paprika, garlic and lemon juice to it.

Buy hummus before departure in a glass jar, as it is a perishable product. The cost of a snack is 0.5 liters. - from 10 shekels (164 rubles).

Dates

Buy local dates. The peculiarity of the product is that it is large, even huge, and fleshy. 9 varieties are grown in the country. The type of "Medzhul" is considered popular. Price per pack of 500 gr. costs from 22 to 59 shekels (360–965 rubles). Surprise your relatives - buy dates stuffed with nuts. They will come out more expensive at a price - from 90 shekels (1473 rubles).

What jewelry to bring from Israel

Israeli jewelry is popular all over the world. They are in great demand. At the same time, the cost of rings, bracelets and pendants is lower than in European countries. Coming here, visit the MichalNegrin jewelry chain of stores. There is jewelry for every taste and at a low price.

Anchovy

Protect yourself from the evil eye, buy a palm-shaped pendant in Israel. Hamsa is sold in souvenir shops. The product is designed for home or car decoration. But there are jewelry in the form of pendants on the bracelet. The simplest ones cost from 2 shekels (33 rubles). Pendants made of gold and silver are more expensive.

Star of David

Bring the traditional symbol of the country with you. The Star of David looks like a six-pointed amulet. Buy jewelry made of gold and silver. The Jews themselves believe that the amulet helps develop psychic abilities. The cost of the product varies depending on the material used. The simplest jewelry costs from 10 shekels (164 rubles).

Eilat stone jewelry

Rings, bracelets, earrings and even cufflinks made of this material look luxurious. The Eilat stone is considered rare and its reserves are depleted, so they stopped mining. Despite this, the products are affordable.

Eilat stone jewelry is a malachite green material with azure inlays. Jewelers combine it with precious metals. The cost of Eilat stone jewelry starts from 119 shekels (1947 rubles).

Israel, the ancient Promised Land, attracts tourists from all over the world who are attracted by the combination of modernity with the sacred sites of the Holy Land of three world religions. A person who has visited Israel certainly wants to take home memorable gifts. It is easy to choose them, because there are so many interesting and unusual things in Israel. What can be brought from Israel as a gift?

works of art

Souvenirs from Israel are part of the cultural and historical heritage of the Jewish people. They embody religious and secular themes in a special way. If you are a fan of art, you should visit Jerusalem. This city is one of the mysterious places on the planet. Once having visited it, you will want to return there again and again and be sure to take memorable souvenirs with you. The choice is widely presented in the form of paintings of various themes and styles, objects of applied art, for example, a decorative wall plate with views of Jerusalem.

Porcelain in a gold frame combined with silk-screen printing will not leave you indifferent. Handmade products will attract your attention at an inexpensive price. In special galleries, you can buy copies of archaeological treasures. They will become an original addition to your home interior. Items that are directly related to religion are also popular. What souvenirs to bring from Israel to believers?

"Spiritual" Gifts

In monasteries and shops at temples, you can buy consecrated Christian icons, books, copies of Byzantine mosaics, candles and incense. For a believer to go to the Holy Land and not bring one of the Israeli icons to their homeland is unacceptable. In Israel there is an icon of the Holy Family, there are no analogues in Russia. Go to the first souvenir shop you come across and you will see a copy of the icon on an engraving or canvas. You can also purchase the icons "Theotokos of Jerusalem", "Nicholas the Wonderworker", "Christ the Savior". Among believers, the idea is widespread that icons brought from the Holy Land are endowed with special divine power. Popular among visitors are traditional Jewish items in a stylish design: menorahs, silver goblets with symbols of Judaism.

You can buy art glass, unusual items made of straw and wool as a gift for friends. An excellent souvenir is a silk tablecloth. The patterns and coloring of such a tablecloth are unusually beautiful; it is easily washed and ironed. Surprisingly, even with soaking, traces of stains already disappear on it. The item is very durable. What else can be brought from Israel?

Bijouterie

While in Israel, do not forget to visit the Michal Negrin jewelry store. In it, for a reasonable price, you will buy very beautiful silver jewelry. Israel is called the Land of Jewelers. This country is famous for its jewelry making traditions, the craftsmanship is passed down from generation to generation.

Silver items created by Israeli jewelers are associated with sophistication and nobility. The choice is huge: from a small brooch to jewelry with precious stones.

The products of TM Magnolia, inlaid with stones of various types, are very beautiful. These ornaments are popular in many countries of the world.

Jewelry

The country of Israel does not produce diamonds, however, you can buy diamonds there at a price much lower than in Europe or Russia. The Tel Aviv Diamond Exchange is located in Israel. It concludes large contracts for the sale of precious stones; this is the reason Israeli diamonds are cheaper.

Original Danon jewelry, handmade products. Produced in small batches, and some - in a single copy with natural and exquisite stones.

HAARI produces handicrafts with Kabbalistic symbols. The stones in these products are precious, as well as semi-precious, contain a special sacred meaning.

As a souvenir, guests of the country acquire extremely beautiful and high-quality bracelets made of malachite or Eilat stone. Eilat stone (Solomon's stone) is mined only in Israel. The mineral contains a mixture of malachite, lapis lazuli, turquoise, etc.; this composition gives beauty to the stone in jewelry. It is magnificent in both silver and gold. And this is not all souvenirs from Israel. What to bring from cosmetics will be described below.

Cosmetics

The choice of cosmetics in Israel is diverse. The most famous manufacturers are Anava, Sea of ​​Life, Sea of ​​SPA. The most famous body care drugs are made from Dead Sea minerals or olive oil. Cosmetics are very high quality, but not cheap. Israeli cosmetics is famous for its effectiveness and environmental friendliness.

Tourists mainly purchase affordable bath salts, soaps, creams, scrubs, sunscreens. The cheapest gift is a bag of salt extracted from the Red or Dead Sea with the addition of jasmine, lavender, rose oils. How much does Israeli cosmetics cost and what to bring from Israel? Reviews of experienced travelers will answer these and other questions.

The cost of cosmetics from Israel

Dead Sea mud costs from 2.5 to 10 US dollars. Bath salts from - 12-15 shekels or from 3-4 dollars. Dead Sea salt - from 30-35 shekels (8-9 dollars). Salt body scrub will cost 16-17 dollars. Creams - from 7.5 shekels (about $ 2). Hair masks from 6 shekels ($1.7).

Everyone knows about the healing properties of mud and salts extracted from the Dead Sea. With their help, inflamed joints, psoriasis and skin diseases are treated.
You can buy cosmetics in all stores and even in the duty-free zone of the airport.

Israel is a truly spiritual country. There are many religious souvenirs here. What do tourists bring from Israel from such paraphernalia?

Religious paraphernalia

The specialized shop "Hatsorfim" has a wide range of items symbolizing Judaism.

1. Menorah. This is a very ancient symbol of Judaism, it symbolizes the 7 churches of Asia Minor, 7 planets and 7 days of the week. It is a candlestick with seven candle holders. Menorah is exactly described as such in the Bible. The candlestick itself is made of metal, and the nests for candles are made of glass or ceramics. Sold in souvenir shops. A silver menorah is valued at $10.
2. Hamsa (Hand of the Lord). This souvenir acts as a talisman. It protects from the evil eye. Outwardly, the hamsa looks like an open palm of a person, but it is completely symmetrical, because instead of the little finger there is another thumb. This talisman can be seen on postcards, jewelry and things. If you buy a thing with an image of anchovy, hang it in front of the entrance to the house or on the glass in the car. But you can go anywhere you want.
3. Bale. This is a Jewish headdress, a round cap, worn on the top of the head. Made from fabric or knitted from threads; sometimes decorated with embroidery on religious themes. You can give a kippah to a person, not necessarily a religious one.
4. Star of David. This is a symbol that is traditionally depicted on many things in Israel. It is present on dishes, on clothes and on various types of jewelry. The Star of David symbolizes Israel.

For guests of the Orthodox faith, souvenir shops sell small icons, holy earth in test tubes, consecrated with holy water, and much more. What to bring from Israel as a gift and not go bankrupt?

Red thread

This thing is a strong amulet. Many peoples believe in the power of this amulet. The red thread is brought from Israel, because it gains strength only after consecration at the grave of Rachel, the progenitor of nations. The red thread must be tied on the wrist of the left hand into seven knots. Only the one who wishes him well (usually the mother) should tie the thread to a person. The red thread, which is tied into seven knots, protects a person from illness and trouble. If the thread breaks, it means a big trouble has passed by. This thing is very popular in all countries. Its price is only 2 shekels ($ 0.5).

Edible souvenirs

You can also bring edible souvenirs from Israel.

1. Hummus. This is a traditional Israeli food product made from chickpea puree with the addition of lemon juice, olive oil, paprika and sesame seeds. Served with nuts, chips, but you can eat it just with bread. It is sold everywhere, it costs 10 shekels (about 80 rubles) for 500 grams. The product is perishable, so it must be purchased closer to departure from Israel.
2. Dates. A wonderful gift for your family members. Very large and tasty dates are cultivated in Israel. Sometimes they are stuffed with nuts. This raises their price, but they are worth it. The best varieties are DegleNur and Majkhol. Dates are very beneficial for human health. They strengthen bones, teeth; they have a great effect on the intestines, make the skin radiant, and also help restore potency. Sold in packs of 0.5 kg.
3. Honey. Sweet gift from Israel. It has an unforgettable taste. There are apple, eucalyptus and citrus. Sold in company stores, markets and airports.
4. Olive oil. This product will compete with Spanish and Greek butter in taste. Israeli olives are very high quality. The Israelis constantly hold competitions, competitions, which determine the quality of olives grown by different producers.
5. Coffee. In Israel, coffee is sold with an expensive spice - cardamom, it has an exquisite taste and aroma. When buying, you need to look carefully at the pack in which it is placed. It must be green; on the front side there is a logo in the form of a cardamom leaf. You will find coffee in all major stores, as well as in the Carmel markets of Tel Aviv and Jerusalem's Mahane. This coffee is brewed only in cezve.
6. Wine. Bring Israeli wine as a gift to a friend. In our country, it is very rare to find wine from Israel. And there unique wines are made from pomegranate, currant or other fruits. Winemaking in Israel existed even before our era, and now it has gained a new dimension. More than 150 wineries produce wine in this small country. Wine brands Flam Wineri, Sas Wineri, Yatir Wineri, Barkan are recognized all over the world. Real Israeli wine is kosher. In its manufacture, strict rules are followed, for example, the grapes must be from a vineyard that is at least four years old. In the seventh year the vineyard must rest. Only Jews should be engaged in the production of this wine, and even then only those who observe Shabbat and other traditions. Israeli wines are more tart than those Europeans are used to. It is advisable to purchase them in wineries, where you can taste and buy cheaper. Prices for a bottle - from 50 shekels (from $ 13).

As you can see, such an abundance makes it easy to find the answer to the question of what to bring from Israel.

The following brands are popular with tourists:

• Wine of King David (King David'swine) - at a price of 50 shekels (approximately 400 rubles).
• Pomegranate wine Rimon - at a price of 65 shekels (about 500 rubles).
• Currant wine.
• Premium wine Yarden, Katzrin.

Wealthy tourists buy wines from GolanHeights Wineri. Sabra series liqueurs are good for a gift. The production technology of Sabra is that the kumquat fruits, from which the liquor is obtained, must first be soaked in a three-year-old brandy. Sabra is poured into unusual bottles, they are an exact copy of the ancient Phoenician wine flask. Liqueur can be added to coffee or used in cocktails. Sabra liqueurs were awarded three gold medals at a competition in London.

matkot game

The locals love this game very much. The game set includes two rackets and a rubber ball. It resembles ping-pong or badminton, only there is no tennis table and net. You can play anywhere, very convenient on the beach. The kit is sold even in supermarkets. Purchase for a gift to friends who love a beach holiday.

After all of the above, for sure everyone has already noted for themselves what to bring from Israel. Tips for tourists on organizing shopping will be presented below.

A huge number of things, souvenirs, jewelry, products that you will not find anywhere else fall upon a tourist who has entered the land of Israel like a waterfall. Experienced tourists who have visited this country more than once advise first of all to pay attention to silverware, handmade ceramic dishes, cosmetics and antiques. Here are some more tips on what you can take with you as a souvenir of this unique country.

Women visiting Israel may be advised to purchase lingerie that is rumored to be as good as German and French in quality.

The shoes of the Israeli brand Couple of are stylish, high quality and affordable.
We must not forget that, despite the abundance, gifts and souvenirs should always be chosen wisely.

note

In conclusion, here are some useful tips for tourists planning a trip to Israel for the first time.

1. Remember: in Israel, shops do not work on Saturday (Shabbat). They work from Sunday to Thursday from 9.00 to 21.00, on Friday - from 9.00 to 13.00.
2. When buying things, be sure to keep receipts, because for large amounts (from 400 shekels, or $ 100), it is possible to return VAT.
3. Items related to religious paraphernalia are best bought in Jerusalem or Bethlehem.

Or in other words, chickpea paste, the most famous product of Israeli cuisine.

According to research, its composition has a beneficial effect on the nervous system and improves mood 🙂

It is sold in any supermarket, it can be of different types: classic and with additives in the form of pine nuts, hot peppers, etc.

1. Tkhina

Hummus girlfriend, a great companion to any salad, as it is an excellent dressing. Tahini is made from sesame seeds. Sold in liquid form. And if you are guaranteed to want to bring it home so that nothing spoils or spills, buy it in powder and breed it yourself at home! Just don't forget to add a pinch of salt and a little lemon juice.

1. marmalade

Yes, yes, this delicacy is so common in Israel that there are entire stores selling exclusively jelly candies of different tastes, shapes and sizes.

Before collecting packages as a gift, it is not forbidden to try 😉

1. Coffee with cardamom. And without.

Sold in many stores or markets, such as Mahane Yehuda in Jerusalem or Carmel in Tel Aviv. You can find it by the green packaging with the image of a cardamom leaf on the logo.

Turkish coffee company "Elite" in a red package. Delicious and inexpensive.

1. Olives and olives.

Oh, what a variety in Israel, you just can not imagine! On the counter at a time you can see from 10 to 15 species! And in terms of quality and taste, they are in no way inferior to their Greek and Spanish counterparts.

1. Dates.

Just a must have! In Israel, they are large, fleshy, very sweet! They are sold both by weight and in convenient cardboard packages of 500-1000 grams. One of the most delicious varieties - majkhol - it has very large and delicate fruits.

1. Wine and liqueurs.

Israeli wine is worth a try! It tastes more tart than most Mediterranean wines. If possible, it is better to buy it at the factory - it will be cheaper, there is an opportunity to taste and choose the most suitable one. For example, at the Barkan plant.

And what kind of liqueurs are made here in the north! For example, the Amiad winery is famous for its kiwi, currant, orange and even chocolate liqueurs. They can only be purchased there, on the spot. They are not supplied to any store in Israel. You can order a transfer or an excursion to the north of Israel with a mandatory check-in at the Amiad winery.

1. Mango.

In fact, mango comes from the humid tropics. But there is no such fruit that they would not have learned to grow in Israel. At the moment we have several varieties and each of them has its own special taste:

Variety "Maya" - the most common, once bred by local breeders.

Variety "Haydn" was brought to Israel from Florida.

Variety "Sheli" produces fruits with a strong aroma. It is simply impossible to break away from it.

In general, if you want to bring something from fruits, you have something to surprise.

1. Avocado.

A vegetable that they learned to breed in Israel. So much so that in our time, Israel occupies one of the first places in the world in the export of avocados! And this, despite the fact that he appeared on Israeli lands some 100 years ago.

1. Lychee.

Lychee comes from China. But Israeli farmers have learned to grow it. Sweet, similar in texture to grapes, the fruit will delight any gourmet!

1. Snacks. "Bamba" - corn sticks with peanut butter. Love to all children and soldiers of the Israel Defense Forces.

"Beasley" - adored by older children. Something between chips and crackers.

1. Pillows for Shkidey Marak soup. P are born both in plastic jars and in bags. They have the shape of squares, yellow, fit perfectly into a plate of any soup, decorate with their presence even the simplest stew.
2. Nuts: pistachios and pecans

There are pistachios in Israel, in large quantities and at a good price. And you can't always find a pecan in Russia. It looks like a walnut in shape, but tastes completely different.Sometimes sweet, in glaze. It's generally a meal.

1. Spices.

There are many of them in Israel: the markets and spicy shops are full by weight. A good gift for food lovers.

1. Cinnamon sticks. In Israel it is cheaper.
2. Arabic sweets.

Together with such a gift, do not forget a two-liter bottle of water to the lucky owner of the gift. Oriental sweets are very sweet.

1. Chocolate firm "Elite" in red packaging.

In Hebrew, it is called “sukariyot koftsot” (jumping candy). It explodes in the mouth. Children like. And adults too.

1. "Cry".

These are such balls or flakes in chocolate. Remarkably, this is an Israeli patent. There chocolate, unlike m&m's, does not leave marks on the hands, does not melt from warm hands.

1. Olive oil.

No worse than Greek. The price of a bottle of 750 grams ranges from 29 to 40 shekels.

1. Grenades.

In September, all the fruit shelves are littered with them. The local pomegranates are very juicy, large and sweet.

1. "Hatzilim".

Ready salad - eggplant with mayonnaise and garlic. Delicious Israeli food.

And what delicacies do you bring from Israel?

The article was written thanks to information from the group

First of all, for the majority of believing Christians, Israel is a sacred land, because it was here that the main part of the events described in the Bible took place. Therefore, many travelers bring souvenirs from the holy land associated with Christian symbols. But not only this can be brought from Israel.

As a rule, women are brought wonderful cosmetics made in the Holy Land as a gift. The reason for the uniqueness of creams, shampoos, gels and other things is that they are based on the most unique salts and minerals mined in the Dead Sea. Local specialized shops sell creams, masks, peels, conditioners, soaps, shampoos, which can be briefly described - their effect on human skin is miraculous. The most popular and revered manufacturers of such cosmetics are Sea of ​​SPA, Ahava, Sea of ​​Life and Yes to .... If you are in doubt about what kind of cosmetics you should buy as a gift, then do the wise thing - buy some nice set of cosmetics. Believe me, any woman will be very happy with such a gift.

For believers, the best gift would, of course, be an icon. The most popular are the icons of the Holy Family. I must say that there are no such icons in the post-Soviet space. Copies of such an icon are sold in any shops and in a wide variety of forms - in the form of an engraving, on canvas, on stone or on wood. Local icon painters also usually depict Christ the Savior, Nicholas the Wonderworker and the Mother of God of Jerusalem. Many people truly believe that all the icons brought from the Holy Land have a special miraculous power.

Of the food products, coffee with cardamom, hummus (bean paste), Israeli olives and dates, and the famous Israeli tart wine are especially popular. When choosing coffee, please pay attention to the packaging - firstly, it must be green, and, secondly, it must have a picture of a cardamom leaf. Israeli olives are in no way inferior to their Greek and Italian counterparts, and are also sold in glass jars. Israeli dates are huge and meaty, and they are usually packaged in half-kilogram boxes to make it easier to transport.

Israeli wines are more astringent than ours. Experienced travelers are advised to buy wines in Israel directly at the factory. They allow you to taste the wines before buying them. I must say that local wines are made from very unusual raw materials - currants, pomegranates and other fruits. Wine made from pomegranates is called rimon. It is considered a symbol of Israel.

Hummus is a very unusual delicacy, which is mashed peas, to which garlic, olive oil, paprika and lemon juice are added during cooking. Hummus is considered the most delicious, to which pine nuts are also added. The taste of this product is unforgettable! Usually hummus is used as a side dish.

Very often jewelry is also brought from Israel. Local craftsmen truly with the highest skill cope with precious stones and metals. Mostly local jewelers specialize in making silver items. In Israeli specialized stores you can buy rings, bracelets, earrings, pendants, pendants - all items can be listed for a very long time. The beauty and subtlety of the work of local jewelers is truly unique, unheard of for a European buyer. It is best to purchase jewelry in a specialized chain of stores - Michal Negrin. I must say that the prices for diamond jewelry there are significantly lower than in Europe.

Curly candles are also brought from Israel. These are very unique and inimitable crafts that are handmade from wax of various colors. True, they are not cheap, but you will not be able to find such ones in any other country in the world.

Children can be brought as a gift from Israel Hamsa. This is a very unique ancient talisman, in appearance resembling an open palm with an eye depicted on it. This ancient symbol protects the child from damage and the evil eye. I must say that many Jewish children wear Hamsa around their necks.

The game Matkot is very popular in the country. It vaguely resembles tennis. Game kits sold in sports stores include two rackets and a rubber ball. Your child will undoubtedly like the Israeli Lego. Its difference from other such designers lies in the fact that it can be used to assemble - the Tower of David, the Western Wall, Noah's Ark and the Temple of Solomon. You can also buy board games - "Five Stones", backgammon and chess.

You can bring friends - the Star of David, icons and crosses (preferably consecrated in the Church of the Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem), sacred texts, Jerusalem stones and Tales - a special prayer cover. One of the most popular souvenirs brought from Israel is the minora. This candlestick, considered a symbol of the country, can be found almost everywhere. Minora is actually a rounded candlestick, traditionally designed for seven candles.

Local markets sell a lot of dishes painted in traditional Israeli motifs. And, of course, silk tablecloths are in great demand, which, according to tradition, are embroidered by hand with original patterns and unique patterns.