After visiting the regions available in the Holy Lands, it is now time to go shopping for souvenirs to take home!!! History and art lovers will find they are in for a treat when visiting the country because Israel boasts of many treasures. Wondering what to buy? Below is a list of the ten best items to purchase as souvenirs and the best places to look for them.
1. Dead Sea Products
Therapeutic properties of the Dead Sea have been appreciated since the earliest ages, due to its minerals such as magnesia et potasa. Some of the best-known brands include AHAVA and Premier which include and sell luxurious lotion, scrubs, and masks. They are available in Dead Sea Mall, any small store at Ein Gedi, or shops around the Masada area.
The Dead Sea
2. Judaica
A perfect way to bring home a piece of Israel is through Judaica. Whether collecting menorahs, mezuzahs, or other ceremonial items, Hannukah goodies; or desiring gift items such as gifts of tallit, or prayer shawls, there is something special everywhere. For greater individuality try to visit Jerusalem shops in the Jewish Quarter like Weaving Creation and Yossi Matityahu. Hazorfim is a good store for fine silver Judaica which has branches all over Israel, and a factory outlet in Netanya near Ben Gurion Airport.
Temple Menorah
Pro Tip: Looking to save on your next guided tour in Israel? Don’t forget to explore available discounts, such as Bein Harim Tours coupon codes, to make the most of your travel budget.
3. Jewelry
The diamond business is a well-developed industry in Israel making it the best place to purchase good jewelry. One store in Tel Aviv, which might be interested is The Diamond Exchange, which sells diamonds of good quality and at reasonable prices. In any case, find exquisite jewelry using Eilat Stone – the natural stone of Israel- or Temple Mount stones at Hadaya or Moriah Stone Jewelry, respectively. While in Jaffa you would be able to peruse real Yemenite art at Ben Zion David or get unique modern pieces at Adina Plastlenia.
Local Jewelry
4. Local Israeli Art
Israeli art can be viewed in galleries spread out all across the country. Go to Tzfat looking for art with a Jewish theme to it, or Ilana Goor’s gallery in Jaffa and David Gerstein’s art gallery in Beit Shemesh. For a more special experience go to Ein Hod Request Data Source an artists’ village close to Haifa with studios, workshops, and galleries.
5. Olive Wood Carvings
Olive trees have been growing in Israel since the time of Moses, and the olive tree wood is used to make lovely carvings. Bethlehem is well known for hand-carved nativity sets, crosses, and rosaries made out of olive wood. In Jerusalem, I have always shopped at a shop called Zak’s Jerusalem Gifts in the Christian Quarter and they are the best.
Olive Wood Carvings
6. Antiquities
Despite controversy about trade in antiquities, Israel controls some licensed dealers who can sell genuine artifacts such as Roman coins or an ancient oil lamp. Customs on shops at Vi Dolorosa in Jerusalem are fascinating. But be careful—there are so many imitations available, so buy only from a trusted seller.
7. Armenian Ceramics
The Armenians have a tradition of pottery that is loved in Jerusalem especially those with intricate blue designs. It has its roots in Armenian artists who were invited to work on the restoration of the Dome of the Rock in the early twentieth century. Some of the churches that you can get these from are those on Via Dolorosa or Nablus Street, they are from the original founding families of this industry. No longer be attracted by cheap imitations and go in search of quality workmanship.
8. Authentic Israeli Food
Bring home the flavors of Israel with local delicacies:
- Wine: In recent years most Israeli Wineries have won awards and can produce wines of the highest quality.
- Beer: So why not go for local craft beer such as Malka or Beer Bazar?
- Olive Oil: Lightweight and very suitable for packing, everybody should purchase it from stores such as Shifra in Tel Aviv.
- Halva & Tahini: You can find them in such markets as Mahane Yehuda.
- Spices: The authenticity of your cooking will be greatly complimented by stocking on za’atar, sumac, and other spices.
- Israeli Dates: Sweet and hardy as well, many of these dates were once appreciated by the ancient Romans.
Markets for Souvenirs
Israeli markets are vibrant, colorful, and full of treasures:
- Jerusalem: There are the Mahane Yehuda Market and the Old City bazaars.
- Tel Aviv: Ohalei Binyamin Market, Carmel Market, or Levinsky Market.
- Jaffa: So if you’re looking for something rare then the Flea Market is the place to be.
Shopping Tips
- Haggle: Negotiation is frequent, more so where the buyer is in a market.
- Buy Local: They should not be cheap imitations made elsewhere, but genuine products made in the country of Israel.
- Avoid Scams: They have made some recommendations on what the buyer should be careful about when buying items such as antiques or jewelry.
You might be looking for gifts for friends, relatives, and even yourself, the souvenirs stand in Israel represent the true touch of history, culture, and art of the country.