The number one health issue on Holy Land trips isn't food poisoning — it's dehydration. Israel is hot and dry, especially from May to October. You'll be walking 8–12 miles a day, often uphill, in direct sun. Drink at least 3 liters of water daily. If you feel a headache coming on, drink more before reaching for aspirin.
Jet lag: Israel is 7–10 hours ahead of US time zones. Most groups arrive in the morning after an overnight flight. Stay awake until at least 8 PM local time, hydrate aggressively, and you'll adjust within two days. Melatonin (3mg at local bedtime) helps many travelers.
Foot care: Break in your shoes before the trip. Bring moleskin and blister bandages. Change socks midday if your feet sweat. The cobblestones of Jerusalem's Old City are slippery when wet — choose shoes with good tread.
Dead Sea warning: Do not submerge your face or splash. The salt concentration will cause extreme pain in eyes and any open cuts. Float on your back and enjoy.
