Advice post

I'm starting a list of advice for the Koesters coming to Israel.
everybody, feel free to add/comment.

Weather:
It's going to be hot and humid. it can be anywhere between 80-95, but is also likely to climb to 105+. the humidity in TA is usually above 90%. the combination is not pleasant.
the good news, is:
- it's a bit cooler and a bit dryer in jerusalem and the north
- there's air conditioning everywhere
- it's not gonna rain
- it's going to be fun anyway!

Clothes:
bring stuff you'll be comfortable to sweat in.
don't bother with a raincoat or a winter jacket.
shorts, t-shirts, tank-tops, skirts... anything from "breathing" fabrics.
bring sandals/flipflops, but also shoes you'll be comfortable hiking with, just in case.
swimsuit!
hat
jeans and a buttoned/collared shirt is fancy enough for any restaurant. you will probably be fine with a t-shirt in most places. you won't need your suit and tie, but do bring some nice clothes :)
don't need to bring towels, the sharons have plenty.
feel free to use the washer/dryer too...

Cosmetics, etc:
sunscreen! (although you can also buy good stuff in israel. a bottle of lotion typically costs 10-15$, depends on the size, number, and if it's on sale)
you can bring your own shampoo and stuff, but you can find almost any brand in the stores in israel.

Electronics
the power system is 220V. camera chargers, computer cables, electric shavers etc., usually work in the range 100-240V (check!). in this case, you will only need a small plastic converter to switch from flat to round prongs. we should probably have some laying around at home, i'll let you know if you need to get one before you fly.
we have hair dryers, but not hair straighteners/curling irons etc.

Flight
it's a long flight, bring a book... they'll make you throw away at security any drinks that you may want to carry on the plane with you, so either bring an empty bottle and fill it up at the gate or buy it after going through security.
the gate to israel is usually at the far part of the airport, and there's another security check at the gate. don't go there too early though, cause you'll have to go through that second security again if you want to exit the gate area for some reason (like go to the book store or something). go to the gate just before boarding.
the airline staff usually go by and offer water/juice during the flight (not only during meals), and they let you just go to the back of the plane and get some water if you need during the flight. don't be afraid to appear rude or bother the flight attendants, trust me, the Israelis on the plane are a lot more obnoxious than you can ever be, even if you try hard.


Passport control / airport information
when you deplane, follow everybody to passport control.
you will be asked to give the address of where you'll be staying. i will send you all the details by email, i recommend to print it out and keep it with your passport.
the baggage claim is a passenger-only area, we will be waiting for you only after you find your luggage and exit the baggage area. in my experience it's rather quick, but august is high season - so who knows.
between the baggage claim and arrivals hall you'll go through customs. you don't need to talk to anyone there or show them any documents (unless they randomly select you or approach you themselves), just go through the GREEN gate to the automatic doors. you only need to declare stuff above $10,000, i think you are in the clear.
from the airport it's only a 15-min drive to the sharons...


i'll add more things if i think of them, and as i said before, feel free to contribute to the list!