Coming out of the shadows: the European country that is gaining momentum among Israeli tourists

The new line launched this week by the Overseas company to the Tatras joins the lines of Viz and Arkia to Bratislava, making Slovakia much more accessible for tourists from the country. And this is happening these days, in the face of demand that never ceases to rise for the pastoral and surprising country in central Europe.

According to Yoni Waxman, manager of the travel company “Ofir Tours”, the industry recognizes a growing interest in packages to Slovakia, and especially in Bratislava, the capital city. “The interest surrounding this country is beginning to be reflected in the search data as well. According to a keyword check on Google, the phrase ‘flights to Bratislava’ registered an increase of about 238% in the last three months, and an increase of about 49% compared to last year.”

“These figures reflect the desire of the Israelis to look for new alternatives to the classic European destinations,” notes Waxman. “It’s a vacation that offers both a beautiful city, nature, diverse spa options, and good value for money. Bratislava enjoys an excellent location, it’s close to Vienna and has a pleasant European atmosphere, so it’s starting to become one of the most intriguing destinations in recent times.”

The connection between Bratislava and Vienna is particularly convenient, and there are special trains that connect the two capitals with high frequency, sometimes even every half an hour, and the journey itself lasts only about an hour. Even those who land in Vienna can easily continue the trip to Bertilseva, which makes the destination particularly accessible and one that can be integrated almost effortlessly into a European vacation.

Beyond a close, convenient and pleasant capital city, north of Bratislava, the Tatras await, a mountain range that feels like Switzerland with alpine lakes, cable cars, wooden cabins and green paths. In the center of the country and in the south there is a whole world of thermal spas, hot springs, mud treatments and medical baths, an old medical tradition that makes Slovakia a destination that attracts people who are looking not only for the views, but also for healing and a relaxing vacation.

Families looking for a vacation that includes a view of peaks and valleys alongside hiking trails and relaxing water activities will be able to enjoy Lake Štrbské Pleso, a mountain lake that is considered one of the symbols of the Tatras and is also considered one of the most beautiful areas in Slovakia. Parents and children will be able to pass the time rafting, stalactite caves, and water parks in a green postcard. And what are the costs? In the “Ofir Tours” company, a package in July that includes flights with luggage, accommodation in a hotel or a holiday village and a car for four nights will cost from 695 Euros per person in the composition of a couple and two children.

“I am happy that the Israeli audience is discovering the beauty of Slovakia, a fascinating and shy natural country located in the heart of Europe,” says Moshe Debi, a boutique tour guide for Slovakia and the Czech Republic. “Without much marketing and advertising by the locals, the word goes from word of mouth. I can testify about Israelis who visit here and return to Israel as unofficial ambassadors of this special country.” According to Debi, there are several reasons for the curiosity and interest shown by the Israelis regarding the trip to Slovakia. “The first is a topographical reason. The north is high, especially the Terra mountain range, while the south is flat, and these height differences have created hundreds of spectacular waterfalls and lakes, the rural areas are incredibly beautiful, green and pastoral. In addition, the food here is very tasty to the Israeli palate, there is a lot of meat and carbohydrates. I would also note that Slovakia is very pleasant for families, it has attractive activities for all ages, so it is not uncommon to find three generations of a family on a joint trip. Another reason that is important to note is that Slovakia sympathizes with Israel over the years in all international frameworks and welcomes tourists from the country with great sympathy.”

Prof. Alon Galbman, head of the master’s degree program in tourism and hotel management at Kinneret Academy, points out that for the Israeli tourist, the combination of relatively low costs in Slovakia, the feeling of security, accessibility through car rental and a wide range of activities for families and couples, creates a clear competitive advantage compared to more expensive destinations such as Austria and Switzerland, and that in recent years there has been a change in the country’s touristic positioning. “The authorities and the local industry have expanded the emphasis beyond winter frolics and skiing towards sustainable tourism, health tourism and experiential tourism throughout the year. Investments in infrastructure, upgrading walking and cycling routes, and expanding the supply of spa sites help disperse tourism outside of the peak season and increase the length of stay of visitors.”

“For years, Slovakia was in the shadow of more familiar destinations, but recently more and more travelers realize that it offers a combination that is hard to find in one place,” says Yehuda Zafarni, an expert on tourism and international aviation at the Hot Consumer Club. “It is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe that has not yet exhausted its tourist potential among Israelis. In addition, it has added value for the audience from Israel, with Jewish heritage sites such as the Tomb of the Seal in Bratislava, and it offers excellent value for the price. In my opinion, this is a country that is suitable for both a long weekend and a week trip, and there is no doubt that the direct routes from Israel will expose it to a much wider audience.”