Despite the tragic events of October 7, 2023, Israel’s tourism sector remains robust. In July 2024, U.S. arrivals to Tel Aviv increased by 5.7% compared to June, reaching 35.7% of total arrivals. This growth can be attributed to the ongoing development of new hotels, restaurants, museums, and tourism initiatives, demonstrating the country’s resilience.
To further support those working in the tourism industry, the Israel Ministry of Tourism has introduced financial assistance guidelines for essential tourism employees. These guidelines, active for the remainder of 2024, provide wage support to employees of tourism organizers who were employed before October 7 and have experienced a significant decrease in income compared to previous years.
Here are some of the new attractions drawing tourists to Israel:
PLAY – Levontin Hotel Tel Aviv
: Opened in July 2024, this boutique, adults-only hotel boasts a fairytale theme. Guests can enjoy luxurious amenities like a spa, fine dining at Gila & Nancy by renowned Chef Eyal Shani, and a private cinema. The hotel offers 34 elegantly designed rooms, some featuring balconies with views of the historic city of Tel Aviv.
Crowne Plaza Haifa
: This hotel, overlooking the stunning Baháʼí Gardens and Haifa Bay, has recently expanded with a new health spa. The spa offers a jacuzzi, indoor pool, sauna, steam room, and treatment rooms, offering various massages, facials, and body scrubs for an additional fee. The luxurious spa is open to both hotel guests and the public, with day passes available for purchase.
Gila & Nancy by Chef Eyal Shani
: Michelin-starred Chef Eyal Shani has launched a unique adults-only restaurant and nightclub concept at the PLAY – Levontin Tel Aviv Hotel. Named after pioneering transgender activists Gila Goldstein and Nancy Schnider, the venue offers an eclectic experience with craft cocktails, cabaret performances by drag queens, and nostalgic dishes like club sandwiches with pastrami and risotto.
Benjamin
: Located in Hod HaSharon, this new venture by Chef Daniel Shalit blends Israeli flavors with a bistro-style setting. The restaurant aims to provide an authentic, unpretentious, and affordable dining experience. For those on the go, “Benjamin’s Window” offers a convenient takeaway option featuring Israeli dishes and menu highlights.
The Infinity Museum
: Opened in August near the Jerusalem Pais Arena, this 19,000-square-foot immersive space blends light, sound, and visual art. Visitors can explore eight expansive rooms, including the Space of Kinetic Spheres, Mirrors and Music Space, and Interactive Screen Space. Each area provides a unique opportunity to engage with both virtual and physical realities. Admission prices start at $26, and the exhibit runs through October.
Dome Expo Dead Sea
: Set to open in August, this cutting-edge conference and concert venue is located in the Dead Sea region. The facility can accommodate up to 5,000 attendees and is designed for a variety of events, including conferences, art installations, concerts, and international festivals. The venue features a 75-foot-high inflatable dome that serves as an immersive projection surface, making it a remarkable addition to the area’s cultural and business offerings.
