Rigid plastic cases offer the most protection, but they are expensive, don't fit large frames (anything over 62cm is trouble), and essentially force a loop itinerary, since they cannot be shipped easily. Furthermore, they are heavy to lug around on public transport.

Israel's main gateway is the ultramodern Ben-Gurion airport (TLV, www.ben-gurion-airport.co.il), 20km (12mi) southeast of Tel Aviv and 50km (30mi) west of Jerusalem. There are plenty of flights to Israel, including non-stop flights from the USA, Europe, South Africa and the Far East.

Visit 'eye on Israel'