Israeli tourism yet not affected by terror attacks

Israeli Tourism Ministry reports no significant tourist cancellations despite violent Palestinian uprising

According to Israeli Tourism Ministry data briefing, country's tourism is still unaffected by the recent wave of terror attacks. Figures show an increase in tourist entries of 6% over September 2013 and 25% over September 2014, summing up a total of 225.000 foreign visitors, despite the current tense situation.

Nevertheless, the Tourism Ministry is set to ensure business as usual and asked tour operators to provide free tours of iconic Israel sites, while boosting overseas advertising for the country to attract more tourists. Moreover, Tourism Minister Yariv Levin encourages Israeli new marketing campaigns launch in Italy, the United States and Brazil.

Tourism Ministry Director General Amir Halevi added that several events taking place this month in Israel will bring thousands of tourists into the country: the International Astronautical Congress in Jerusalem (October 12-16), WATEC Water Technology & Environment Control Exhibition & Conference in Tel Aviv (October 13-15) and the IndNegev music festival in Mitzpeh Gevulot (October 15-17).

Tour Guides Association noted that tour guides have not received any significant visitor cancellations for the next month, despite the wave of anti-Jewish terror now engulfing Israel.

At the same time, the Ministry instructed its staff to continuously update tourists regarding country's security situation.