Shiksa in Israel

Slow for Inspection

Somehow I expected that we'd see more signs like this one - Slow for Inspection - while driving around Israel.
The only Inspection stops I recall are: entering Jerusalem, and entering the Airport. That's a heck of a sentence; hopefully it makes sense to you.

You know how you immediately feel guilty whenever a police officer is near? That's how it feels when you approach a checkpoint or see one of these signs. But it's just a feeling. Even if you're a shiksa you're not guilty so don't fret. The inspection is no big deal.

Don't believe me? CSJ and I arrived at a Jerusalem checkpoint half covered in Dead Sea mud, half dressed, and half wet...and the gun-carrying guard guy didn't even flinch.

Anyone ever have a real problem (for no good reason) at a checkpoint? Let me know.

Avis in Eilat

Avis in Eilat is a one-man-show. the poor guy was crazed with ringing phones, impatient customers, and limited English. Preferred does not really exist. Give yourself plenty of time to pick-up and drive away.

major major thing to remember if you want to use the insurance offered by your credit card - if you don't know what I'm talking about, skip this paragraph - Bring a Copy (in writing, of course) of Exactly what your credit card offers/covers. Call your credit card company before leaving home. Ask them about Israel. Get it in writing. If you do not have this information with you, Avis will Not rent you a car without paying for coverage.

Avis in Eilat is in the Shalom Hotel/Center, a shopping plaza across the street from the airport. It's next to Budget, by the way. Hertz is around the corner.

Taxis

We were told that taxis in Israel are abundant and cheap. So cheap, in fact, that one person suggested we forgo the rental car and catch rides from place to place.
We did not do that for two reasons. (1) we like to be in control,and (2) we like to leave stuff in the car.
I am certain, however, that we will be in a taxi or two during our stay so will certainly report back.
in the meantime, anyone else have taxi advice?

Will Israeli Avis Recognize CSJ's Special Status?

I can't remember what they call it - Preferred? - but that's what CSJ is in the eyes of Avis so that's the car rental company we chose. What will happen? What kind of car will we get? Stay tuned.

Here's the Avis Israel site. But you can book it through the regular Avis too. Or you can call, but don't expect the US operators to be able to describe the Israeli cars to you.