Why should I choose Israel for my year abroad?
Whether you speak Hebrew or would like to try your hand at learning languages whilst out here, don’t rule out Arabic, Spanish, French, German and other languages such as the Jewish languages of Yiddish (a cross between Hebrew and German) and Ladino (a cross between Hebrew and Spanish) offered by most universities. 

You’ll have the opportunity to make friends with people from all over the world as many students come to study, or to migrate; Russia, Argentina, Mexico, USA, France, Australia, Canada, Venezuela, Poland, Brazil, Ethiopia, South Africa, Spain and many more! 

Wherever you choose to spend your time, you’re never far away from the beach, or a forest, or a falafel stand. There is so much culture and history to experience here, from Jerusalem, the Holy Grail for the major religions, to the Crusader forts in the North, or the Bedouin tents in the desert to the South and the social communes in the countryside, the kibbutzim. There is never a dull moment, with nature rave parties, gigs in the desert, hikes through the mountains and the stereotypical Middle Eastern camel ride. 

The level of academia here is highly thought of throughout the world, and there are also plenty of opportunities for internships (really, a must!). Although the media focuses on the conflict, which is surely an important aspect, there is also a lot more to be seen. Israel has a high proportion of start-up companies, a thriving high-tech industry, and its pioneering alternative energy sources making it an ideal place to get some work experience. There are also opportunities to work with NGO’s and charities.

From Israel, it’s easy to hop across the border into Jordan or Egypt, and see Petra or the Pyramids of Giza. Not only this, but flights to Europe are reasonable, as well as those to Turkey or even Russia. It’s also a halfway point from the UK to India or Thailand (popular destinations for many Israelis!). 

All in all, a great place to spend your year abroad, whether you’ve learnt the language, fancy something different or want to get to grips with ancient cultures, well and truly kicking their way through to the 21st century!