Safer Israel will boost tourism numbers

Speaking to TTG at the ITT conference in Tel Aviv, Levin said he believed Israel was putting everything in place to grow numbers by more than 50% to five million annually in the years to come.

Improved security, incentives to build more hotels, a new airport in the south and a focus on Israel as a sea and sun destination will all stimulate more tourism said Levin.

“We have the best beaches, atmosphere and in Tel Aviv we have a genuine 24 hour, non-stop city,” said Levin.

“Cities are totally safe here, women can run in the parks at midnight, which you can’t say about Central Park in New York or Regents Park in London.

“We have a lot of experience of dealing with security issues in Israel – and that’s why people feel safe.”

The new Ramon Airport in southern Israel, opening next year in the Timna Valley, will bring more visitors to the city of Eilat and the desert, putting Israel further on the map for hikers and bikers, said Levin

“For the first time we will have direct flights from London to Eilat, and more than 12,000 new rooms in the city.

“All of this is in addition to the Holy Land, birdwatching and the many other reasons for visiting Israel.”

Levin added that the UK was one the country’s most important source markets.

More than 350 UK delegates have been enjoying the ITT conference at the Hilton in Tel Aviv this week.