Living in Israel:
The Beginners Guide
Dear friends, I would like to congratulate you all in a warm welcome to Israel and the IDC. I see your arrival as a brave step, a valuable and important one and for that please receive my out most appreciation. I hope your upcoming years at the IDC will be a first step in becoming a part of the Israeli culture and society. It is important for us that you know the Student Union is your home, your family, and most importantly a place for you to start making changes that affect both the IDC and the Israeli society. We are here for you and with you. I wish you a happy new year, a year of success, full of new exciting new experiences, a year of fulfilments, a year where dreams can come true. Sincerely Yours, Yair Itzhar Belachovsky Chairman of the Student Union csb@idc.ac.il 054-3379973
RRIS Students, I wish to welcome you to the IDC and its diverse International School. Here you will face many new challenges, at times difficult, and the Student Union’s here to guide you through this exciting phase in life. The RRIS Committee is ready to help you in any way possible and make you feel at home. Our members, one from each school, can be found on campus: Integration coordinator: Kinneret Shmueli - 3rd year Communications, responsible for all aspects of Integration among the Israeli and international schools. Academic Coordinator: Irad Strauss - 1st year Psychology, responsible for all academic issues. Welfare Coordinator: Tina Silber - 2nd year Business, deals with all issues regarding Israeli bureaucracy, problems with landlords, or opening a bank account etc. WE ARE HERE FOR YOU! Make the best of the years to come, Shlomie Singer Director of the RRIS Student Affairs and Committee rris.aguda@idc.ac.il 054-7703737 or 054-3379974
Living in Israel:
The Beginners Guide
Housing Moving to Israel is no easy step. Many of you have recently moved from the comfort of your home, wherever it may be, and must now find a new living arrangement – a rather stressful procedure. That’s why we are here for you! Here is some information we gathered to ease this process for you, yet note these are suggestions and it would be advised to verify all information personally.
IDC Housing When applying to IDC you are given the option of residing in an “IDC apartment” which is one of the many apartments IDC sublets for students around the city of Herzeliya. This option is also given to students in the second and third years of their studies. “IDC apartments” are typically rented out for students in groups of 3-6, with a shared kitchen, living room, and bathroom. For an additional payment a student can receive a room with an attached bathroom. All apartments are furnished with sofas, a coffee table, and a dinning table in the shared living room area, a refrigerator, cooking platter and washing machine in the shared kitchen area, and a single bed, a desk, chair, and closet in the private bedroom. The sublease is paid directly to the IDC Housing Department which includes rent, municipal taxes (called “Arnona” in Hebrew), and maintenance fees. Nonetheless the sublease does not include any utility bills such as water, electricity, gas, telephone, etc. Students are also responsible for setting up and paying for their own internet connection. For more information about IDC housing please contact the housing coordinators: Mali Choresh RRIS.housing@idc.ac.il 972-9-960-2791 Linda Goldstein RRIS.housing@idc.ac.il 972-9-952-7657 Tip: IDC Housing is a more of a communal way of living and therefore we recommend that you and your flatmates decide on a method to pay all bills in advance such that the responsibility is equal.
)PVTJOH Finding Your Own Apartment If you decide that IDC housing isn’t really for you and you want to find your own place for the year, whether on your own or with flatmates, be prepared for some hunting. The ability to speak Hebrew is a great plus when looking for apartments! The most common way by which students look for apartments is through the various online notice-board websites that are mostly, if not entirely, in Hebrew. Here are some of Israel’s popular notice-board sites: t XXX ZBE DP JM t XXX XJOXJO DP JM t XXX IPNFMFTT DP JM t 5IF TUVEFOU VOJPO BMTP PòFST BO POMJOF OPUJDF CPBSE BJNFE TQFDJÜDBMMZ BU *%$ students. This is accessible on the student union website at: XXX NZJED PSH JM. Another method by which you could use the internet to find an apartment, or alternately flatmates for an apartment, is through groups on Facebook. Often students post messages on the RRIS groups’ walls concerning apartments they have found or øBUNBUFT OFFEFE NBLJOH JU BO FòFDUJWF UPPM You could always go for the classic way of finding an apartment, which is also the easiest yet most costly one as well – real estate agencies. You will find real estate agencies scattered around all of the city of Herzeliya, where agents will gladly assist you in finding an apartment suitable for you. This option would be best for those who do not speak Hebrew whatsoever! 5JQ You should note that in Israel the norm is that the occupier is the one who pays the agent’s fee (usually equivalent to one month’s rent + VAT), rather than the landlord as customary in other countries, so keep this in mind when approaching an agent!
)PVTJOH Setting up the Internet In Israel for a domestic internet connection you need two providers: an infrastructure provider (the modem and telephone line) and a service provider (the user-name and password provider). It is easy to make the mistake of getting one provider and not the other, therefore make sure you know which company is providing what. Tip: Internet companies can be negotiable about the price, so don’t hesitate to bargain and do mention you are a student! Also many internet provider companies have what they call a “bundle� package which is one where you are given a single price for the services of both providers per month which is paid in one transaction, so you may want to ask for that. Here are some of the main internet providers: t #F[FRJOU
XXX CF[FRJOU OFU
t )05
XXX IPU OFU JM
t /FUWJTJPO XXX OFUWJTJPO OFU JM t 4NJMF
XXX TNJMF OFU JM
Note that often these companies offer packages that have a minimal contractual period of 12 months or more, where you will be charged for each month whether you use the internet or not. When you are about to leave for a lengthy vacation in the summer for example, call your provider up and see if you can freeze your line for a month or so and continue it when you come back, they may be willing to come your way!
Setting up a Telephone line If you would like to have a landline in your apartment, on the next page you will find a list of telecommunication providers. Often in order to have an internet connection you will need to maintain a telephone line, the company which provides this line is also the infrastructure provider. You should note that you will be expected to pay a one-time fee for the installation.
)PVTJOH These are Israel’s main providers: t #F[FR
XXX CF[FR DP JM
t ,BWFJ ;BIBW XXX CF[FR DP JM t )05
XXX IPU OFU JM
5JQ If you would like to use a landline for the sole purpose of using the internet, call your provider to ask for such a limited line which may be cheaper!
Setting up Cable / Satellite TV Israel has two main satellite and cable providers that offer several programme packages including a wide range of international and English-speaking channels. These two providers are: t )05
XXX IPU OFU JM
t :&4
XXX ZFT DP JM
You should note that even without HOT or YES you should be able to receive Israel’s basic public access channels: 1, 2, and 10 (all Hebrew speaking). In Israel there is mandatory television tax which is imposed on anyone who possesses a television set. The television tax or Agra-in Hebrew is paid to the Israeli Broadcasting Association and usually amounts to an annual fee of approximately 400NIS. For more information on the Agra fee go on: XXX JCB PSH JM HWJB
5JQ If you are an Oleh Chadash or someone with Oleh rights you may deserve a certain discount! Don’t forget to mention you are a student throughout for more favourable prices!
)PVTJOH Paying Your Bills With living on your own comes the not-so-nice part of having to pay your own bills‌In Israel certain utility bills are to be paid in certain ways. In the next few pages you will find information on how to pay every kind of utility bill.
Water In Israel every municipality has its own way of administrating water consumption and billing for its water and sewage services. In some cities the water bill is part of the municipal taxes otherwise known as Arnona, paid to the municipality itself, and in other municipalities water is billed separately and is paid to an independent company. Therefore don’t be surprised if you get a separate water bill, or alternatively if you don’t get a water bill you can be sure it is in your Arnona. The water bill is bi-monthly; it should arrive every two-three months! If you move into a rented apartment in Herzeliya it is advisable to transfer the bill under your name at the city-hall or Iriya-in Hebrew. This typically requires bringing your lease agreement with you for approval. The process of transferring the water bill under your name is different in every city, therefore it is recommended to check online based on the city you live in. Note – This paragraph is not relevant for those living in IDC housing! You should note that in Israel during the winter a dud shemesh, or solar-heated tank, is used for heating water. This tank is located on the roof of your building. In order to have hot water make sure you turn the “boilerâ€? on 30-60 minutes before needed. Paying your water bill is rather easy. You may select the payment method best for you from the following options: t $SFEJU DBSE USBOTBDUJPO – Read the bill for details t 4UBOEJOH CBOL PSEFS – Rather than paying the bill every time you may order the sum to be deducted from your account. Read the bill for further instructions. t $BTI WJB QPTU PĂłDF – Go to the nearest post office branch (visit XXX JTSBFMQPTU DP JM for branch map) and simply pay the cash amount. /PUF Don’t forget Israel is in the midst of a water crisis! Israel cannot afford to waste any water therefore be responsible with your water consumption!
)PVTJOH Gas Israel has three main gas companies. Aside from being used to power your gas stove, gas may also be used in your apartment as a heating method depending on your heating system. According to the bill you receive you can find out which company your apartment is registered to.
t 1B[(BT
XXX QB[HB[ DP JM &NFSHFODZ MJOF
t "NJTSB (BT XXX BNJTSBHBT DP JM &NFSHFODZ MJOF t 4VQFS (BT XXX TVQFSHBT DP JM &NFSHFODZ MJOF Just like your other bills the gas bill is bi-monthly and can be paid in the following methods: t $SFEJU DBSE USBOTBDUJPO – Read bill for further instructions or pay online via the company’s web-site. t 4UBOEJOH CBOL PSEFS – Read bill for further instructions. t $BTI WJB CSBODI PS QPTU PóDF – Depending on the gas provider you may either pay your bill in cash at the post office, or at the nearest branch to you.
"UUFOUJPO If you suspect a gas leak in your apartment, call your company’s emergency line immediately, open the windows, and leave your apartment as soon as possible!
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)PVTJOH Electricity Israel has one main electricity provider nation-wide. Once again if you don’t live in IDC housing, and are moving into a new apartment, it is advisable to transfer the bill under your name to avoid confusion. It is particularly simple to do so with the Israel Electric company, all you have to do is as follows: 1. Read the current measure on the apartment’s electricity meter. 2. Call 103 3. Provide the following details: Contract number (available at the top left corner of the bill), your name, ID number, and the current measurement. You should note that your electricity bill is also bi-monthly. You can pay it in the following methods: t $SFEJU DBSE USBOTBDUJPO – Online on www.israel-electric.co.il or by phone - dial 103 (24 hours service) t 4UBOEJOH CBOL PSEFS – Read bill or go online for details. t $BTI WJB QPTU PóDF – Visit your nearest branch.
"SOPOB Arnona is the term for municipal taxes in Israel. The price of the Arnona varies in accordance with the size of your property and its location. /PUF If you live in IDC Housing your sublease includes Arnona and Va’ad Bayit fees, therefore this section is not relevant for you! The Arnona bill is bi-monthly. In the case that you move into a new apartment it is essential that you transfer the Arnona bill to your name, in order to avoid paying for the previous tenant’s debts. To do so you must visit your local municipality. Make sure you bring your leasing agreement with you! (More information regarding the Arnona on the next page)
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)PVTJOH You can pay your Arnona bill in the following methods: t $SFEJU DBSE USBOTBDUJPO – Online depending on your municipality’s website, or by phone (dial 03-9275803 if you reside in Herzeliya, service available 24 hours) t 4UBOEJOH CBOL PSEFS – Visit your municipality’s website for details. t $BTI – Depending on your municipality you may be able to pay your bill in the post office or alternatively at your municipality’s cashier desk. You should note that you may apply for a student discount on your arnona payments at the municipality Applications are accepted from January 1st until August. For assistance with this process contact: 5JOB 4JMCFS 054-3985303 0SFO 1BTUFSOBDL 054-3379971
7B BE #BZJU Va’ad Bayit is the term Israelis give the maintenance fees of an apartment building, such as the cleaning of the stairway, elevator maintenance, gardening fees, etc. This is therefore relevant only for those who live in apartment buildings. If you are renting an apartment you will be expected to pay Va’ad Bayit to your landlord! Each building has a Va’ad Bayit committee that handles the building’s maintenance, which is the one that charges Va’ad Bayit fees from the tenants. These fees are typically paid in cheques or cash in monthly instalments directly to the Va’ad Bayit committee, or to the landlord, depending on the agreement. 5JQ Certain web-sites are available which allow you to pay most of your bills, including Arnona or even parking tickets, using your credit card, free of commission! In this way you can pay all your bills at once without having to leave your house! Visit XXX NZCJMMT DP JM or XXX DJUZQBZ DP JM for this service.
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4VSWJWJOH Now that you have your housing sorted out, its time to take care of the essentials needed for surviving the hectic Israeli life. In the following pages you will find information on opening a bank account, mobile service, and so on‌
Opening a Bank Account Opening a bank account is a rather simple process. All you must do is choose the bank you would like to join, visit the nearest branch, and create an account! You should know that most banks offer student accounts that have favourable benefits and rates for students. In order to open a student account you must provide an acceptance letter from IDC, so come equipped with one! Here is a list of Israel’s main banks: t #BOL )BQPBMJN
XXX CBOLIBQPBMJN DP JM
t #BOL -FVNJ
XXX MFVNJ DP JM
XXX EJTDPVOUCBOL DP JM
t *TSBFM %JTDPVOU #BOL
t .FSDBOUJMF %JTDPVOU CBOL
XXX NFSDBOUJMF DP JM
t #BOL )BCFOMFVNJ
XXX ĂśCJ DP JM
t .J[SBIJ 5FGBIPU #BOL
XXX NJ[SBIJ UFGBIPU DP JM
5JQ If you have Oleh Chadash rights, and deserve the “absorption basket� it would be advised to open a bank account as soon as possible in order to receive the monetary benefits.
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4VSWJWJOH Getting a Mobile Phone Getting a mobile phone in Israel is easy and quick. All you must do is decide which provider you would like to use and approach a sales-point typically located within many of the shopping-malls. At the sales-point a representative will assist you in choosing your plan, which is typically based on a set quantity of minutes and texts. Note once again that a “student plan� may be available, therefore do ask if you are interested in one! Just as true for the bank, in order to receive the student plan or alternatively a discount you must show your student ID or letter of acceptance, so bring it with you. These are the major mobile network providers:
Prefix: t 0SBOHF
XXX PSBOHF DP JM
t $FMMDPN
XXX DFMMDPN DP JM
t 1FMFQIPOF
XXX QFMFQIPOF DP JM
t .JST
XXX NJST DP JM
5JQ Before signing a contract, we recommend that you verify the specified service-commitment that you are signing on for. You will have to pay for the full duration of the contract.
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Surviving Healthcare Although typically not the favourite topic of students, healthcare is a vital aspect of surviving anywhere. It is mandatory for all IDC students to have health insurance coverage throughout the entire duration of studies. It would be advised to verify all information with the corresponding authorities according to you personal case.
Kupat Holim According to the National Health Insurance law, every resident of Israel, including new immigrants and temporary residents (depending on the status), is entitled to health insurance coverage. This insurance coverage allows for a membership in one of Israel’s four health funds called “Kupot Holim� in Hebrew. This insurance is carried out through the monthly payment of premiums to the National Insurance Institute. If you are an Israeli national, a returning Israeli national, an oleh chadash, or a temporary (A/1) resident, you are entitled to such insurance. If you do not fall under one of these categories you may need to provide your own private health insurance (see “Hilit� for more info.) otherwise check your entitlement with the authorities. The payment of insurance premiums to the National Insurance Institute (known as “Bituach Leumi�) varies according to your status. Olim chadashim, otherwise known as new immigrants, receive a voucher along with their teudat oleh entitling them to six months of free health care coverage. Seek Misrad Haklita or your Aliyah guide for more details. Temporary (A/1) residents however do not receive this privilege and must pay premiums according to income. The payment of premiums by returning Israeli citizens also varies according to the specific status therefore contact “Misrad Haklita� for further details on benefits payments. To join a Kupat Holim you must follow a specific process that is described to you at the Misrad Haklita. This process includes a visit to your local Bituach Leumi Institute where you will have to fill a request form specifying the Kupat Holim you would like to join. Israel’s four Kupot Holim are:
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t $MBMJU
XXX DMBMJU DP JM
t .BDDBCJ
XXX NBDDBCJ IFBMUI DP JM
t .FVDIFEFU
XXX NFVIFEFU DP JM
t -FVNJU
XXX MFVNJU DP JM
Surviving You should note that your Kupat Holim membership may not be valid immediately! It may take a few months for you to be a member depending on your status, Bituach Leumi or Misrad Haklita will notify you of your waiting period. In the case of a long waiting period it would be recommended to have an alternative health insurance.
“Hilit” For those who are not entitled to Kupat Holim coverage, IDC offers a private health insurance policy through the Hilit Insurance Agency for an annual membership fee of $500. Hilit specializes in working with foreigners and therefore provides medical services in Hebrew and English 24 hours a day, including weekends and holidays. When purchasing an insurance policy through Hilit you will receive an insurance card containing your policy number with which you may call the medical centre with any medical problem or concern. You should note that IDC simply recommends Hilit as an external organisation and therefore takes no responsibility for its services. For more information consult your “Acceptance Booklet” or contact the RRIS offices. Emergency Services: In cases of emergency call Magen David Adom (MDA) at 101. MDA provides all emergency services including first aid and ambulance services. Note that MDA services are provided for a fee, depending on your insurance you may be partially reimbursed for this fee.
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Surviving Driving in Israel In Israel a foreign driver’s license is valid for only one year from the date of entry into Israel. This is true for temporary residents, new immigrants, and returning residents. The period during which one may convert his driver’s license into an Israeli one varies according to his official status. New immigrants may convert their overseas driver’s license within three years from their aliyah date; nonetheless driving with such a license is legal for only one year. Temporary and returning residents may only convert their foreign driver’s license within one year from arrival. Returning residents may convert their foreign driver’s license given they have resided abroad for a minimum of six months, while the license must have been issued at least six months before arriving at Israel.
Converting Your License The process of converting a foreign driver’s license is somewhat lengthy as it entails a series of medical examinations, bureaucracy, and tests which vary, once again, according to your status. It would be advised to check your specific requirements with the Licensing Bureau (“Misrad HaRishui�) either up front in Holon or by phone at *5678. Conversion requirements for temporary residents and tourists:
t $POWFSTJPO QFSJPE one year from entry date. t &ZF FYBNJOBUJPO NVTU CF DPOEVDUFE BU POF PG UIF -JDFOTJOH Bureau’s certified optometrists who provide a “green form� that must be presented at the Bureau in Holon. t 1IZTJDBM FYBNJOBUJPO QSFGPSNFE CZ B HFOFSBM QSBDUJUJPOFS UZQJDBMMZ preformed in Holon. t 7BMJE GPSFJHO ESJWFS T MJDFOTF BOE B QIPUPDPQZ PG JU DBOEJEBUF NVTU be of legal age under Israeli law. t 1BTTQPSU BOE SFTJEFOU T QFSNJU GPS UPVSJTUT B WJTB XJUI B NJOJNVN PG 3 months. t "GUFS QSFTFOUJOH UIFTF EPDVNFOUT UIF DBOEJEBUF NVTU DPOEVDU B practical driving exam*. * This may not be necessary for tourists, validate this with the Licensing Bureau.
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Surviving Conversion requirements for returning Israeli residents:
t $POWFSTJPO QFSJPE one year GSPN FOUSZ EBUF
t &ZF FYBNJOBUJPO BU POF PG UIF -JDFOTJOH #VSFBV T DFSUJรถFE PQUPNFUSJTU XIP XJMM QSPWJEF UIF iHSFFO GPSN w t 1IZTJDBM FYBNJOBUJPO QSFGPSNFE CZ B HFOFSBM QSBDUJUJPOFS t 7BMJE GPSFJHO ESJWFS T MJDFOTF BOE B QIPUPDPQZ PG JU t 5FVEBU [FIVU UFVEBU [B LBVU BOE *TSBFMJ QBTTQPSU XJUI FOUSZ BOE FYJTU TUBNQT EFUBJMJOH UIF EBUFT t 1SBDUJDBM ESJWJOH FYBN NBZ CF OFFEFE UXP BUUFNQUT BSF HJWFO GPS UIJT FYBN BOE QSJPS ESJWJOH MFTTPOT BSF SFDPNNFOEFE 5IJT JT OPU OFDFTTBSZ GPS BMM SFUVSOJOH SFTJEFOUT TQFDJรถDBMMZ JG SFTJEFOU IFME BO *TSBFMJ MJDFOTF JO UIF QBTU WFSJGZ UIJT BU UIF #VSFBV
t /PUF UIBU UIF DPOWFSTJPO JUTFMG UBLFT VQ UP POF ZFBS EVSJOH XIJDI ZPV XJMM SFDFJWF B UFNQPSBSZ MJDFOTF
Conversion requirements for new immigrants (โ olim chadashimโ ):
t $POWFSTJPO QFSJPE three years GSPN FOUSZ EBUF
t &ZF FYBNJOBUJPO BU POF PG UIF -JDFOTJOH #VSFBV T DFSUJรถFE PQUPNFUSJTU XIP XJMM QSPWJEF UIF iHSFFO GPSN w t 1IZTJDBM FYBNJOBUJPO QSFGPSNFE CZ B HFOFSBM QSBDUJUJPOFS t 7BMJE GPSFJHO ESJWFS T MJDFOTF BOE B QIPUPDPQZ PG JU /PUF UIBU B GPSFJHO MJDFOTF UIBU JT OPU JO &OHMJTI NBZ OFFE B OPUBSJ[FE USBOTMBUJPO
t 5FVEBU PMFI BOE UFVEBU [FIVU t "GUFS QSFTFOUJOH UIFTF EPDVNFOUT DBOEJEBUF NVTU DPOEVDU B QSBDUJDBM ESJWJOH FYBN UXP BUUFNQUT BSF HJWFO GPS UIJT FYBN BOE QSJPS ESJWJOH MFTTPOT BSF SFDPNNFOEFE
Tip: The Licensing Bureau in Holon deals with foreign license conversions only on certain days of the week. Check before you go!
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4VSWJWJOH Student Authority Assistance Student Authority, or in Hebrew “Minhal Ha’Studentim” is an organisation which offers financial assistance to students in the form of a tuition subsidy. a new immigrant (olehchadash), the child of new immigrants, an immigrant citizen, or a returning minor (katinchoser) you deserve such a tuition subsidy equivalent to approximately one year of tuition in an Israeli university. Once again it would be advised to verify your entitlement with the Minhal Ha’Studentim itself prior. Note that the subsidy will not cover the tuition requirements of IDC Herzeliya and therefore you will be responsible for financing the difference. Note: Minhal Ha’Studnetim accepts requests for assistance only until mid-December. Make sure you collect all documents in advance! Candidates for assistance must present the following documents when applying:
t )JHI TDIPPM EJQMPNB NBUSJDVMBUJPO DFSUJöDBUFT
t -FUUFS PG BDDFQUBODF UP *%$
t 0OF QBTTQPSU QIPUP
t "VUIPSJ[BUJPO PG EFGFSSBM GSPN *%' PS EJTDIBSHF QBQFST
t 7BMJE UFVEBU PMFI PS UFVEBU [B LBVU
Once you have collected these documents present them at Minhal Ha’Studentim at Ester Hamalka St. 6, Tel Aviv. Again, we would advise you to verify no other documents are necessary in your case with the Minhal Ha’studentim itself. For more information visit: www.moia.gov.il/StudentsOlim
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-JWJOH Living in Israel amid the Mediterranean vibe is tremendously fun, yet at times it is no easy task. The draining heat, the hustle and bustle, and the Israeli “chutzpah� (common word for rude and shameless behaviour) may sometimes be overwhelming for newcomers. Here are some tips for living in Israel.
Public Transportation Public transportation in Israel is a rather efficient method of travel that allows you to avoid the terrible traffic experienced in the centre. Typically the most convenient method for intercity travel is the Israel Railways train, while the bus is typically preferred for travel within a city. It would be particularly recommended to use the Egged or Dan buses for travelling within Herzeliya.
Train Israel Railways has nation-wide coverage and provides transport to most major cities. To check at which cities the trains come by, and to view the timetables to all routes visit: www.rail.co.il. Alternatively you can SMS your question to 5757. Tip: Israel Railways offers a “student� ticket for a lower fee if you display your student ID at the cashier.
Bus There are several bus companies that provide service around the country. These are some of Israel’s main bus companies:
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t &HHFE www.egged.co.il
4.4
Intercity in all main cities incl. Eilat
t %BO www.dan.co.il
Tel Aviv area Gush Dan territory
t .FUSPQPMJOF www.metropoline.co.il
Ha'sharon area Tel Aviv Southern cities
t $POOFY www.connex.co.il
Southern cities Jerusalem Tiberias
Living In Israel it is customary for passengers to purchase their travel passes from the driver once getting on the bus. If you would like to purchase a monthly pass or a multi-journey pass ask the driver for a “kartisiya.” Some companies such as Dan, Connex, and Kavim offer an electronic “Rav-Kav” card which can be recharged.
CamBUS CamBUS is a recent student union initiative to improve students’ ability to travel to and from campus. There are two methods by which CamBUS operates: shuttle services and iBus services to and from Tel Aviv. CamBUS services are tailored to fit student’s needs and therefore are offered at lower fees and convenient routes. Shuttle Bus The shuttle bus travels back and forth between the Herzeliya train station and the IDC campus. During a regular study week the shuttle bus runs every 20 minutes with a fixed schedule. The shuttle bus is offered at a low cost and allows you to purchase a semester-long pass. iBus The iBus is a new venture which offers students a personally tailored method of travel from and to Tel Aviv. The iBus will take you straight from your home to the campus at your preferred schedule, and will even allow you to receive live updates by email or SMS. The iBus runs at flexible hours with no commitment as you may pay a one way fee or a monthly subscription according to your convenience. For registration or enquiries log onto the student union website via “My IDC” or contact contact@ibus.co.il.
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Living Learning Hebrew Learning Hebrew is a process that takes time, but with some dedication and perseverance you could speak the language within months! There are several ulpan options close to you, and even in IDC itself. Here is a list of the ulpan options relevant for you: t Ulpan classes in IDC: IDC offers the RRIS students ulpan classes that fit into students’ timetables and for which they are examined in the end of the semester. There are several ulpan levels, therefore students are tested to see which level they belong to.
t IDC summer ulpan: In the summer months IDC offers a more intensive ulpan at a fee, which is open for students as well as tourists and olim chadashim.
t Ulpan Gordon: One of the more popular ulpanim situated in Tel Aviv, Gordon runs both in the morning and in the evenings. t Ulpan Or: With branches in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, Ulpan Or offers 1-2 week sessions as well as longer ones, depending on your needs.
Newspapers In Israel it is particularly important to be up-to-date with the news. You will notice numerous complimentary newspapers stacked at the gates of IDC, as well as free newspaper stands scattered around the city. Nonetheless if you like your newspaper delivered to you in the mornings, or need your news with more depth than the complementary newspaper may provide, below is a list of popular newspapers in Israel.
English Newspapers t Ha’aretz International Herald Tribune: www.haaretz.com or call *5200 to subscribe t Jerusalem Post: www.jpost.com or call *2423 to subscribe t Globes (Israel’s business newspaper): Available in English online at www.globes-online.com
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Living Hebrew Newspapers t Yediot Achronot: www.ynet.co.il PS DBMM UP TVCTDSJCF t Maโ ariv: www.nrg.co.il PS DBMM UP TVCTDSJCF t Shaโ ar Lamatchil (Beginners Hebrew): $BMM UP TVCTDSJCF
Food Guide *O UIF GPMMPXJOH QBHFT ZPV XJMM CF BCMF UP รถOE JOGPSNBUJPO PO XIFSF UP CVZ ZPVS HSPDFSJFT JO )FS[FMJZB BOE IPX UP PSEFS JO 5IF JOGPSNBUJPO JT TQFDJรถD GPS )FS[FMJZB CVU NBZ BMTP CF SFMFWBOU UP PUIFS BSFBT BT XFMM
Closest Supermarkets *O )FS[FMJZB ZPV DBO รถOE NPTU PG UIF TVQFSNBSLFU DIBJOT UIBU BSF BMM LPTIFS LFFQJOH XJUI UIF FYDFQUJPO PG i5JW 5B BN w 5IF NBKPSJUZ PG UIF TVQFSNBSLFUT PรฒFS IPNF EFMJWFSJFT CZ QVSDIBTJOH JO QFSTPO PS PWFS UIF QIPOF UIJT JT VTVBMMZ QSPWJEFE GPS B GFF
Herzeliya City Centre:
Herzeliya Pituach:
t Mega Baโ ir Hadar St. 2, Shivat Hakochavim Blvd. 8 JO UIF NBMM
t Supersal Deal Haโ menofim St. 9
t Shefa Shuk Ben Gurion St. 2 /FBS $BGร $BGร JO UIF QBTTBHFXBZ
t Fresh-Market Hanadiv St. 71 t Mister Zol Beni Benyamin st. 23
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t Stop Market Haโ menofim St. 4 t Teva Castle โ Organic Foods Market Haโ menofim St. 9
-JWJOH Ordering- In In Herzeliya and its neighbouring cities you can order food deliveries from most restaurants by phone or through the internet. Most restaurants deliver for a small fee and display their entire menu online for your convenience. Note that it is common for restaurants to have a required minimum to accept an order for delivery. Here are a few useful sites for food deliveries: t 10Bis – The Student Union’s official food delivery website offers 20% discount on any order for IDC students! To order click on the 10Bis link on the Student Union website. (English version coming soon!) t XXX NJTIMPIB DP JM t XXX NVODI DP JM t XXX FBU DP JM t XXX CPPNFSBOH PSH JM t XXX SFTUBVSBOUT DP JM (food guide in English)
Save the Date‌ The Student Union has several events planned throughout the academic year aimed at making your student experience at IDC, and in Israel, the best possible one. Attending these events will not only provide a social platform, yet also a way to experience Israel and its Jewish holidays in a unique manner. You should note that there are several events that arise spontaneously throughout the year which are advertised by e-mail. Therefore pay attention to the Student Union e-mails! /PUF It would be highly recommended to purchase your tickets to parties and events JO BEWBODF as they are often sold out!
0DUPCFS 0DUPCFS 0DUPCFS +BOVBSZ .BSDI "QSJM +VOF
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Orientation week concert Beginning of the year fair Opening of the year party Exam fair Purim party Eilat trip Student day
Living Television tax Bus House Pharmacy Hospital Insurance Social Insurance Electricity Bill Central heating Contract Apartment Solar water heating Gardener Roof Gas Installation Bug extermination Commitment Standing bank order Plumber Municipality Credit card Prefix Floor (level) Health clinic Cable TV Elevator Membership Water Student Authority Restaurant Delivery Licensing Bureau Taxi meter Taxi Tax Cleaning Street Bug extermination Driving License Doctor Neighbourhood Monthly payement Bi-monthly payment Payments Maintenance fees
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Glossary אגרה אוטובוס בית בית מרקחת בית חולים ביטוח ביטוח לאומי חשמל חשבון חימום מרכזי חוזה דירה דוד שמש גנן גג גז התקנה הדברה התחייבות הוראת קבע אינסטלאטור עירייה כרטיס אשראי קידומת קומה קופת חולים כבלים מעלית מנוי מים מינהל הסטודטים מסעדה משלוח משרד הרישוי מונה מונית מס נקיון רחוב ריסוס רישיון נהיגה רופא שכונה תשלום חודשי חודשי-תשלום דו תשלומים ועד בית
Agra Autobos Bayit Bayit Merkachat Bayit Cholim Bituach Bituach Leumi Chashmal Cheshbon Chimom merkazi Chozeh Dira Dud Shemesh Ganan Gagg Gaz Hatkana Hadbara Hitchayvut Hora’at Keva Instelator Iriyah Kartis Ashrai Kidomet Koma Kupat Cholim Kvalim Ma’alit Manui Maiim Minhal Hastudentim Misada Mishloach Misrad HaRishui Moneh Monit Mas Nikayon Rechov Risus Rishayon Nehiga Rofeh Shchuna Tashlom Chodshi Tashlom Du chodshi Tashlomim Va’ad Bayit
Disclaimer: The content of this booklet is for the sole purpose of assisting RRIS students and is of a suggestive nature. The Student Union does not assume responsibility for any wrong or misleading information, while it does not wish to promote any organisation mentioned, but simply aid students in integrating their lives in Israel.