Haifa Travel Forum

Hello all, I am a 20yr old female moving to Haifa to study beginning January 2,2006. I will be there for a while and I was wondering what I should pack, where I should eat, how I should travel from the Tel-Aviv airport, what should I prepare myself for, and what are some must-do's and must don'ts. Basically, I don't know anyone or anything in Haifa, so I am happily taking a blind step forward. I appreciate all the help and advice I can get.
~Marj

For a start, check out the Haifa and Israel pages on this site (mine and others). Haifa is a beautiful (but very hilly) city. If you are coming in January, be prepared for a lot of rain (until April). Read the taxi tip on my Lod page (the airport is not in Tel Aviv, but in nearby Lod). The same shared taxis will get you to Haifa. It's easy to make friends in Israel (especially for a 20-year old female...)- so don't worry about not knowing anyone. If you need any specific help, holler. I have a son at the Technion in Haifa.

Marj,

I live in Tel-Aviv and work in Haifa, so I could probably answer some of yout questions. Getting to Haifa from the airport is easy. Just take the train from the terminal to Haifa. Unless, you get here after midnight. You can see the timetable at: http://www.israrail.org.il/english/index.html. There are also mini-vans which go to Haifa. They are called "sherut" in Hebrew. You'll see them when you exit next to the taxis.

There are two main areas to hang out in Haifa: Moriya st./Merkaz Hacarmel and the German colony. You can find many restaurants, cafes and bars in Moriya street and Sderot Hanasi. Let me know if you need more specific information.

Gil

The "must" attraction in Haifa is the Bahaian gardens. Entrance is free, but you should register in advance for a (free) joining to a group. You may easily get the info after you arrive to town. The beach is also very beautiful.
My girlfriend and I are students in Haifa (but in the Technion, not in Haifa University), and you are welcome to contact us, ofanan@yahoo.com

Thank you for you forum reply. I will contact you all when I arrive.

Don't worry about food- there are many places to eat in the university itself, and even a McDonald's....
The haifa university is high on the hill so it's the coldest place in Haifa...
If you have more specific questions about the university please ask,I learn there once a week and know the place.

Thank you for your response. So, Haifa University is the coldest place in Haifa? How cold is that? What days do you study at the University? Perhaps we can meet for lunch at some time.

Well.. the coldest place in Haifa is not very cold...I guess it is like 60 degrees in a cold day. I study in the university every monday, I'll be happy to help you in everything you need, you can write me anytime.
bye
Rachel

thanks so much...how can i best contact you when I arrive in Haifa?

My e-mail:
rachel_karniel@hotmail.com
There are many internet-huts in the university.
If you need more information before you come, don't hesitate to ask
Bye
Rachel

Thanks to all for your replies and great advice. I have found them to all be helpful and I will look forward to my time in Haifa. I will stay in touch.