News

A 24-hour telephone hotline has been launched to provide help and information to tourists in Israel.

The Tourphone, which was launched by the country's ministry of tourism, allows visitors to call *3888 from any telephone and speak to ministry representatives about entry and exit regulations, visas, directions, emergency assistance and other subjects.

On arrival in Israel, visitors will receive a leaflet at passport control telling them about the new services. Additional information will be available at special booths at the airport and at tourist information offices around the country.

The leaflet, which includes details on the hotline as well as information about sites, events and attractions, is currently available in English and French and will soon be translated into Russian and other languages.

Shaul Tzemach, director general of the tourism ministry, said: 'Quality and standard of service are the most important and influential factors in a tourist's decision to return to Israel.

'In addition, quality service helps improve Israel's image in the world as a leading tourist destination. Over the next few months, the ministry of tourism will work to improve the level of service for tourists in all areas of the tourism industry.'

Some 1.5m tourists visited Israel in the first six months of 2008, 45% more than in the corresponding period of 2007.

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