Slowly but surely, travelers are returning to Israel, as evidenced by the February Dead Sea Marathon, followed by the 13th International Jerusalem Winner Marathon earlier this month.
In all, the two marathons, which drew 6,000 and 40,000 participants, respectively, included 2,000 international participants, some of whom shared accounts of their experiences.
“This was my first trip to Israel and running the Jerusalem half marathon was such an uplifting experience,” said Steve Foster, an endurance athlete who is CEO of Outreach Inc. a provider of church outreach products and services.
“I ran by the Knesset and through the Old City of Jerusalem … the streets were lined with cheering spectators and people of all different races and religions were running together.
“Another day, walking through the Old City and hearing Arabic, Hebrew and English on the streets and talking with a variety of interesting people ... these are the moments I'll remember for the rest of my life.”
A more seasoned traveler to Israel, Seth Cohen, MD, had this to say: “I have been to Israel a few times before and loved it, but this time was completely life changing. The people I met, the stories I heard – couple of course, with the amazing food, culture and unique sights –this trip to Israel moved me in ways I’m still processing, even now weeks later.”
The Tel Aviv Papaya night run, set for April 17, is also expected to draw an unprecedented number of participants, The Israel Ministry of Tourism said.
“These events are meaningful on many levels and especially to highlight the commonalities we all share,” said Eyal Carlin, Israel’s Tourism Commissioner to the US. “To witness so many gathering for a single event, whether as a participant or spectator, gives us light and hope for the future.”
The resumption of airlift from the US to Israel, along with a new route, is also expected to bolster visitor numbers.
“With United Airlines recently resuming flights from the U.S. to Tel Aviv, Delta announcing its resumption in June and El Al increasing its airlift in April with a new route from Fort Lauderdale, Fla. travel to Israel is starting to rebound,” the Israel Ministry of Tourism said.
For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.
Topics From This Article to Explore
