Latest Updates from Israel
Shalom and blessings from Sar-El Tours & Conferences here in Jerusalem! I am happy to report positive news and updates from Israel and from Sar-El:
Decrease in COVID-19 New Case Rate
After a recent increase in the spread of COVID-19 in Israel, our government has taken responsible action to encourage physical distancing, wearing of face masks, and other practical measures. This has resulted in a decrease in new cases of the virus and a positive outlook.
National Policy
The Israeli government has appointed a new COVID-19 crisis manager, Professor Ronni Gamzu, who is skillfully working to end the pandemic. His plan emphasizes public discipline with minimum restrictions on civil life, as well as initiatives to restore the economy. In addition, the Ministry of Transportation has published a preliminary plan outlining the gradual resumption of international air traffic, in which travelers entering Israel from “green countries” will not be required to quarantine.
Increased Flights
Throughout August, more flights and destinations are expected to become available for Israelis, signaling increased activity at the airport and the future of tourist entry into Israel. In fact, the Israeli government plans to allow a pilot of Jewish youth groups, such as Taglit-Birthright, to begin coming again before reopening travel to others around the world, like you, our dear clients who we long to welcome back soon!
Pre-flight Testing & Travel Insurance
It is expected that all visitors to Israel will need to take a COVID-19 test three days prior to their departure, as well as a thirty-minute test upon arrival to Israel.
Hotels Reopening
Many hotels in Israel have already reopened, operating in accordance with government regulations, including improved hygiene and occupancy rate restrictions. Establishments that receive higher percentages of foreign tourist clientele plan to reopen throughout the month of August. With this positive turn of events, we would like to encourage you to contact your Sar-El Tour Operator to inquire about preferred hotel availability for your future groups.
Aura Air Filters on our Buses
When you come to Israel on tour, which should be very soon, you will notice that we have installed state-of-the-art air filters from Aura Air on all our Sar-El buses. This device, already tested in a major Israeli hospital, has proven to kill the COVID-19 virus, as well as rigorously purify and filter the air. Please see the brochure for more information on our Aura Air filters.
Hotels and Site Regulations Summary
Hotels: physical distancing, mask-wearing, dining room & public area guest limitations
Sites: fewer limitations at outdoor sites versus indoor sites
Sar-El Academy
The Sar-El Academy, our educational division, in cooperation with Sar-El Media & Production has developed a high-quality video-series on many of the important Biblical and historic sites in Israel. Sar-El Academy is a useful tool for travel agents, tour leaders, pastors, and especially all those who would like to learn more about Israel and experience the Land while international travel is not yet possible. Check it out at: www.sarelacademy.com. New episodes will become available soon. Stay tuned!
Sar-El Tours & Conferences
Sar-El continues to work on future groups, preparation of new itineraries, enriching our content, improving our technology, renegotiating with the suppliers and many more special projects to be ready for you. Please feel free to share any questions or concerns you may have with your Sar-El Department Managers and/or Tour Operators. I am also available for anything you may need from me. It will be our privilege to provide you with any help to ensure safety and high quality of services for those traveling with you. We look forward to serving and welcoming you back.
Next year in Jerusalem — or, God-willing, even sooner!
With best regards,
Uri Avrouskine
General Manager
Sar-El Tours & Conferences