Israel is on the eastern Mediterranean, bordered by Lebanon, Syria, Jordan and Egypt. The Great Rift Valley begins beyond the source of the River Jordan and extends south through the Dead Sea, into the Red Sea. For many, Israel is the Holy Land. Attractions include the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem (the Holy City, the capital and cradle of Judaism, Christianity and Islam).
Tel Aviv is an exciting city offering culture and sandy beaches. The Israeli Philharmonic Orchestra draws audiences from all over the world. Haifa is Israel's leading seaport - as an industrial town and ancient fortress, it is a starting point for visits to Galilee to see the Sea of Galilee, Nazareth and the Mount of Beatitudes. The Dead Sea is an inland lake lying in the lower Jordan Valley, flanked by the Judean and Moab Mountains. Its minerals and high salt content are renowned for their health-giving properties.
Israeli cuisine is essentially a combination of Oriental and Western cuisine. Folklore and dance shows are performed for visitors everywhere.
