Moving to Rehovot

Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion international airport is just a few miles north of Rehovot; perfect for any expatriate who will be based in Rehovot but travelling frequently. Before moving to Rehovot, be aware of any travel restrictions which may prevent you from entering the country. Not all countries recognize the State of Israel, and airport guards will refuse to let you in if you fail to meet certain criteria. Any expat relocating to Rehovot should also take care to show respect and consideration for Jewish traditions and laws. Israel is a Jewish state and although Rehovot is less religious than other cities, there are still some conservative areas. Women should wear long skirts and all expatriates in Rehovot should cover their shoulders and knees when visiting religious areas. At holy sites, women should cover their head, and men should wear a kibbah. You can speak to other expats on the InterNations forums for more information on Judaism, and how to adapt to life in a Jewish society.

Working in Rehovot

Before moving to Rehovot, get in touch with your embassy and make sure that there are no restrictions on travel and work in Israel. Some embassies will feel obliged to warn you about the potential for conflict in Israel, but Rehovot is largely peaceful and has more in common with the beach-side mentality of Tel Aviv than the tensions of Jerusalem. However, it is wise to keep an eye on current affairs and try not to get involved in any political conversations at the water cooler! Expats working in Rehovot will benefit hugely from having a car, as the stunning Israel coast and lush Jordan valley are just a few miles away. Israel has some excellent roads, but (as with any new country) driving can be a bit of a challenge, so you might want to consider hiring a driver for your first few weeks. Speak to other expatriates about driving in Israel via the InterNations forums and discussion boards, and share your own experiences of living in Rehovot.