Doing business
You can expect straight-talking and forthright opinions, so make sure you know your stuff and are ready to defend yourself. If you’re out to impress, a thorough knowledge of the political scene – and Hebrew – are a very good starting point.

Cool hotel
Cinema Hotel (www.atlashotels.co.il) is, as the name suggests, housed in a former movie theatre and retains a celluloid theme throughout – films are even screened in the lobby. The building is one of many marvellous examples of modern Bauhaus-style architecture in Tel Aviv. Doubles rooms start from around £82.

Hip restaurant
You might not be able to secure a table next to the visiting dignitaries at Messa, but Manta Ray (Kaufmann St) combines a five-star menu, attentive service and great views. A good option for working breakfasts too.

Happening bar
There are several uber-chic bars in the Old Port, and Rivendell is arguably the pick of the bunch. Despite the Tolkien-inspired name, this is a hangout for the city’s movers and shakers and there’s not a bare-footed hobbit in sight.

Getting there
All flights to Israel arrive at Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport. British Airways and El Al both fy twice daily from London to Tel Aviv, while bmi introduced services on the route earlier this year. Flights are generally from around £400, though cheaper flights (some from under £300) are available at quiet times of the year and by taking a stop with Malev, Alitalia, Swiss or Iberian.

Must-see sights
The buzzy, ancient Yemenite Quarter is an exotic, rejuvenated old district now full of arty shops and hip locals in search of shabby-chic dwellings. The nearby Carmel Market is a fantastic, frenetic shopping destination.

Getting downtown
At least two trains an hour run from the airport to Tel Aviv Merkaz Station; tickets cost around £3. A taxi will cost around £15.

The details
Tel Aviv, like the rest of Israel is two hours ahead of
the UK. Shops tend to be open all day, but banks close for a mid-afternoon siesta. The city grinds to a halt from Friday to Saturday evening for Sabbath, when the best thing to do as a visitor is hit the beach. You can expect hot, hot summers and cooler-than-you-might-expect winters. There are 6.4 New Israeli Shekels to the pound. See: www.thinkisrael.com for more information, or call 0207 299 1100.

INSIDER’S TIP
“Tel Aviv has a wide range of restaurants and we'd suggest going to 4th Street in the centre of town where there are plenty to choose from. You could try Messa, an international restaurant with great atmosphere that serves fusion gourmet dishes – it's not cheap, but it's great food.“
Chris Lewis, ELAL

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