Strong Shekel and High Prices Drive Israelis to Vacation Abroad

Israelis lead the world in traveling abroad for vacations, driven not only by the desire to relax but also by economic factors. While many attribute the urge to travel to psychological needs such as escaping stressful news, the financial aspect plays a crucial role. With a strong shekel and an average monthly salary of about 15,000 shekels (4,300 euros), many Israelis find it more affordable and satisfying to enjoy luxury and variety overseas than at home.

The article highlights the frustration many Israelis feel with high prices in Israel, especially in dining and shopping. For example, a two-kilogram premium meat cut can cost 430 shekels, and restaurant wine prices often far exceed wholesale costs, making it difficult to indulge without feeling overcharged. This economic pressure encourages Israelis to seek better value abroad, where supermarkets and services offer more variety and lower prices, even in relatively expensive countries.

Traveling abroad allows Israelis to feel affluent without the sense of being overcharged, a feeling they strongly dislike. The experience of shopping in foreign supermarkets or dining out overseas provides a sense of luxury and fairness that is harder to find in Israel. Thus, beyond the usual reasons for travel, the economic advantage of spending a strong currency abroad is a key motivator for Israelis to fly internationally whenever possible.