Rising Antisemitism Shifts Israeli Travel Plans, Driving Demand for ‘Safe’ Destinations
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A surge in antisemitic incidents globally is prompting many Israelis to reassess their travel plans, seeking out holiday destinations perceived as safe havens. Destinations like Prague, Dubai, Thailand, and countries in Eastern Europe are experiencing a notable increase in demand – and later, rising prices – notably as Jewish holidays approach, according to reports from “Ynet.”
As the October 7th terrorist attack and escalating in recent weeks,global media has documented a disturbing wave of antisemitic attacks. These range from verbal harassment and discrimination in businesses to physical assaults. Recent events include anti-Israel protestors blocking Israeli tourists from disembarking a cruise ship on the Greek island of Syros.
On the popular island of Rhodes, several young Israelis were attacked following a club visit, and near Athens, an Israeli tourist was bitten by a Syrian immigrant, resulting in a partial ear amputation. Similar incidents have been reported in Australia, Austria, and the Netherlands. Beyond these high-profile cases,travelers are reporting hostile stares,insults,and exclusion from hotels upon revealing their israeli nationality.
Clear Price Increase
This growing uncertainty is demonstrably impacting travel bookings. Cities such as Prague (+23 percent), Budapest (+20 percent), Dubai (+17 percent), and Thailand (+15 percent) are witnessing considerable growth in Israeli reservations. Eastern European nations – Hungary, Romania, the Czech Republic, alongside Georgia, Azerbaijan, and Montenegro – are proving particularly attractive to Israeli tourists.
Tour operators like Kesher Tours are reporting a noticeable shift in demand, with travelers moving away from traditionally popular, but currently perceived as insecure, destinations in Western Europe towards those considered safer.
Mykonos and Santorini Remain Popular
Despite a decline in bookings for Athens (-22 percent) and Rhodes (-10 percent), Greece, with its numerous islands including Mykonos and Santorini, remains a key travel destination. Nir Mazor,head of Kesher Tours,notes that a strong Israeli presence and positive personal experiences frequently enough mitigate negative reporting and bolster traveler confidence.
Greek authorities have responded to the incidents by increasing police presence on the islands of Rhodes and Crete. Minister of National Security, Micalis Chrysochoidis, has pledged strict enforcement of anti-racism laws and is collaborating closely with Israeli tourism companies to ensure visitor safety.Experts attribute this trend to a reflection of heightened social tensions stemming from the Gaza War. Shirley Cohen-Korkaby, deputy managing director at Eshet Tours, advises travelers to adopt discreet travel strategies and avoid overt displays of Israeli identity to “minimize conflicts.”
Ultimately, the confluence of the political climate and rising antisemitism is fundamentally altering the travel behaviour of Israeli vacationers. They are increasingly prioritizing destinations where they can travel safely and without fear – a shift that is poised to have significant repercussions for the tourism industry worldwide.
