Perhaps nowhere else on the globe does there exist a greater discrepancy between perception and reality than Israel. The press portrays the country as a savage land racked by war and terrorism, and many outsiders have the impression that Israelis live their daily lives cowering amongst endless cycles of violence. The reality, though, is a country of 7.4 million people whose stock market and economy are humming along quite nicely (at least in contrast to the rest of the globe) and whose citizens revel in their chic Mediterranean lifestyle.

The sun is in full power, and Israel is fully energised for a month of festivals, adventure, and fun. Here are our picks of the huge variety of events happening in Israel this August.
3-15 August – Jerusalem Arts & Crafts Festival a mega festival of art, crafts, and also food and music.
19-20 August – NonStop [...]

Cruises are sailing back into Israeli ports after a ten year hiatus, and there are now more and more Mediterranean cruises including Israel on their itineraries.