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Accommodation Guide

Accommodation Guide

Israel And The Palestinian Territories

Accommodation Types

Lodging Options

  • Luxury Hotels/Resorts

    Most of these in the Ein Bokek and Neve Zohar areas along the Dead Sea shore. They feature spa facilities, private beaches, swimming pools, and multiple dining options. The David Dead Sea Resort & Spa, Isrotel Dead Sea, and Herods Dead Sea. These a high level of comfort and services.

  • Mid-range Hotels

    Some options exist within the resort areas or nearby towns like Arad. These comfortable stays without the full luxury price tag.

  • Kibbutz Guest Houses

    These an unique experience with a more rustic feel. They are in kibbutzim near the Dead Sea, for example, the Ein Gedi Country Hotel. They good value and a glimpse into Israeli communal living.

  • Hostels

    Direct hostel options on the Dead Sea shore are limited. The HI Ein Gedi Hostel is a distinguished exception, offering dorms and private rooms with Dead Sea views. Abraham Hostel Jerusalem also day tours to the Dead Sea, making it a viable base for budget travelers.

Alternative Stays

  • Vacation Rentals/Apartments

    Fewer options exist directly in the resort area. More available in nearby towns like Arad or Dimona, or for short-term stays in the West Bank (for example, Jericho). These suit longer stays or those who prefer self-catering. Vrbo for options.

  • Camping

    Official campsites are limited. Some visitors might camp unofficially in certain desert areas, but this not recommended due to safety and environmental concerns. HI Ein Gedi Hostel sometimes camping pitches for a more structured outdoor experience.

Neighborhood Guide

Detailed breakdown of areas and their character.

Ein Bokek

Benefits
  • Direct access to the Dead Sea
  • High concentration of luxury hotels with full amenities
  • Easy access to spa treatments
  • Public beaches, a promenade, and a small shopping center
Drawbacks
  • Can feel like a tourist bubble
  • Less authentic local experience
  • Prices for accommodation and food are higher
  • Less local interaction

Neve Zohar

Benefits
  • More secluded and tranquil environment
  • Some private accommodations available
  • Quieter residential area
  • Relaxed atmosphere
Drawbacks
  • Fewer facilities than Ein Bokek
  • Limited dining options
  • Less developed tourist infrastructure
  • Fewer large hotels

Ein Gedi

Benefits
  • Immersive nature experience
  • Close proximity to Ein Gedi Nature Reserve
  • Stunning Dead Sea views
  • Good value guest house and hostel options
Drawbacks
  • Not directly on a Dead Sea beach
  • Short drive or bus ride to public beaches
  • Dining options are limited
  • Less resort amenities

Additional Area Information

Arad

A city in the Negev Desert, about a 30-45 minute drive from the southern Dead Sea. It has more affordable accommodation, an authentic Israeli town experience, a good base for exploring the Negev desert and Dead Sea. It has good amenities like supermarkets and restaurants.

Jericho (Palestinian Territories)

An ancient city in the West Bank, located near the northern Dead Sea. It holds historical meaning, offers an unique cultural experience, budget-friendly options, but requires crossing checkpoints and direct access to Dead Sea beaches is limited.

Booking Strategies

Seasonal and platform recommendations.

Seasonal Booking Advice

  • High Season (Spring/Autumn): Booking well in advance (3-6 months) for the best selection and prices, especially for luxury resorts.
  • Shoulder Season: Booking 1-3 months in advance is recommended.
  • Low Season: More flexibility exists, but booking a few weeks ahead for popular resorts is still advisable.

Trusted Platforms and Policies

  • Trusted Platforms: International platforms like Booking.com, Expedia, and Agoda are trusted for finding accommodations.
  • Direct Booking: Direct hotel websites often loyalty programs or exclusive deals.
  • Negotiation: Negotiating rates is not common for hotels or resorts, especially in the Dead Sea area. Prices are generally fixed.
  • Policies: Deposit and cancellation policies vary by hotel and booking platform. Always review policies before booking. Many places free cancellation up to a certain period before arrival, flexibility.

Seasonal Price Changes

Peak Season Prices
  • Prices significantly higher during peak seasons and Israeli holidays like Passover and Sukkot.
Weekend vs. Weekday
  • Weekends (Thursday night to Saturday night) generally more expensive than weekdays.

Considerations

House Sitting

TrustedHousesitters: a platform for house and pet sitting exchanges, offering an alternative for longer stays.

Hotel Loyalty

IHG Hotels: Explore their hotels for potential loyalty program benefits and exclusive offers for return visitors.

Budget Stays

Hostelworld: a good resource for budget accommodation, particularly for hostels like HI Ein Gedi.

Accommodation Recommendations

Top picks for different budgets and travel styles.

Premium Stays

David Dead Sea Resort & Spa Ein Bokek

Extensive spa facilities, pools, and private beach access. A top choice for luxury.

Isrotel Dead Sea Ein Bokek

Known for its high standards and well-regarded spa. A consistent luxury option.

Value and Unique Experiences

Ein Gedi Country Hotel Kibbutz Ein Gedi

Peaceful setting, beautiful botanical gardens, and stunning Dead Sea views, though not directly on the water. Good for an unique stay.

Herbert Samuel Hod Dead Sea Ein Bokek

Good value for a full-service resort experience. A solid mid-range choice.

Tailored Stays

  • Family-friendly Options

    Many Dead Sea resorts, like David Dead Sea and Isrotel, cater to families with kids' clubs, pools, and family rooms.

  • Solo Traveler Recommendations

    The HI Ein Gedi Hostel a social atmosphere for meeting other travelers. Resorts in Ein Bokek safe but might feel less social for solo travelers.

Extended and Immersive

  • Long-Stay Accommodations

    These less common in the direct resort area. Consider vacation rentals in nearby towns for longer stays to find more options.

  • Cultural Significance

    Kibbutz Ein Gedi insight into Israeli communal living, an unique cultural experience.

Lodging Insights

Hostel Options

HI Ein Gedi Hostel (Ein Gedi): Basic but clean, with dorms and private rooms, excellent views, and close to the nature reserve. Ideal for budget travelers.

Affordable Alternatives

Accommodation in Arad or Dimona, a drive to the Dead Sea, will be more budget-friendly.

Summary of Options

Resort Focus

Ein Bokek has the largest concentration of luxury resorts with extensive amenities.

Nature & Budget

Ein Gedi offers nature proximity and budget-friendly hostel options.

Local & Value

Arad more local feel and affordable stays, requires driving.