This hardworking nation has a vibrant work culture and thrives in its leisure activities, parties, and gatherings with friends. In Israel, time appears to pass quickly, both in a literal and metaphorical sense. People are constantly on the go, striving to make the most of each moment and filling their schedules. Metaphorically speaking, food holds a special place in Israeli social life and is treasured as one of their favorite means of connecting and building bonds with others.
Israel offers a multitude of things to do and countless pleasures to enjoy, and despite life's challenges, we seize every opportunity and make the most of them.
Gourmet pleasures at the heart of life in Israel
Food is almost sacred in Israel; it's taken very seriously. The rich tapestry of culinary influences from various origins creates a delightful blend of styles in Israeli street food. Unsurprisingly, this youthful nation has already produced some of the world's most renowned chefs. With tempting food choices everywhere you turn, any food enthusiast would find their taste buds dancing with delight. And since snacking is warmly embraced on any occasion, we certainly don't shy away from treating ourselves.
These culinary experiences are even more cherished when they become opportunities for friendly gatherings. Most importantly, Israelis are social beings who revel in connecting with others. Consequently, restaurants, cafes, and bars remain lively year-round, seven days a week — except for Friday evenings in cities with predominantly observant communities and during major religious holidays.
Family, an essential in Israel
Family life is the bedrock of Israeli society, but the idea of family is seen in a broad and inclusive light, and its values permeate all social structures. Solidarity and a sense of brotherhood hold significant importance, although it's worth noting that it isn't always without challenges.
In Israel, indifference is a rarity. People on the streets genuinely care about each other, often to the point of being overly curious or even intrusive. If someone appears unwell on a sidewalk or a bus, rest assured they won't be ignored; someone will quickly step in to help. However, this strong sense of brotherhood also has its downside, as complete strangers might feel compelled to voice their opinions on private matters that are none of their business.
Yet, during tough times, this genuine concern for others becomes a valuable source of support. In moments of adversity, loved ones come together to provide food and offer comforting words and gestures. The Israeli family firmly stands by those who are ill or grieving.
Those little Israeli habits
Some critics highlight what they perceive as Israelis lacking traditional etiquette, but it's crucial to recognize that notions of good manners can be subjective. When living abroad, it's essential to avoid ethnocentrism. Israelis can be quite assertive, whether ensuring they get a seat on a bus or being the first in line at a snack bar. Additionally, they communicate with directness, avoiding unnecessary embellishments. This straightforward approach prevents their conversations from being burdened with unnecessary formalities. In Israeli culture, using formal language (“vouvoie”) to create distance between strangers is not common; instead, everyone addresses each other by their first names, which certainly affects the overall tone of their interactions.
In Israel, it's also important to be aware of noise levels. Israelis speak in a higher pitch, not just when arguing but in everyday conversations. With the prevalence of cell phones, it has become common to witness quite lively and sometimes even heated personal conversations in public places.
Casual wear in Israel
In Israel, there's generally little emphasis on dressing up; a casual style is the prevailing trend. Fashion and appearance often take a back seat, resulting in diverse clothing styles that may not always align with high-fashion standards, though this isn't typically a point of contention. The work culture doesn't require conservative attire either, so it's rare to see men in suits and ties or women in formal suits in Israel. However, for those who enjoy dressing up, there's no need to hold back; they are free to put effort into their appearance and might even receive compliments for their style. For the rest of us who prefer a more relaxed approach, it's a relief, and we can be comfortable without feeling pressure to dress up.
Please note that this description primarily applies to secular society in Israel. In contrast, religious individuals adhere to strict dress codes, which can vary depending on their community's origin. However, there is a common factor among these religious communities. Both men and women, along with children, cover themselves from head to toe as a symbol of modesty.
Respecting the Sabbath in Israel
The Sabbath brings a weekly pause to the bustling streets of Israel. With the exception of predominantly secular cities like Tel Aviv and Haifa, nearly everything stops from Friday evening until Saturday evening. During this time, shops, restaurants, and cafes shut down, with only a few exceptions, and public transportation ceases. However, in Jerusalem, even atheists can enjoy a leisurely stroll and dine in the market in the Arab quarter of the ancient city. Taxis are available for getting around within the city, and shared cabs are commonly used for intercity travel.
To complete the picture, one last detail might remind you of the French: Israelis love to grumble. They passionately complain that life in Israel has become unbearable because they can't bear it anymore. The impending apocalypse is a recurring theme in their grievances. However, rest assured, they don't believe it will happen tomorrow.
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