2012 HandbookHAIFA ISRAEL

1 Getting Ready to GoHelpful Websites

1 AcademicsPre-Semester ActivitiesUniversity of Haifa CourseworkInternshipsAcademic PoliciesLibrariesOther FacilitiesCo-Curricular Activities

4 What to BringHaifa Program HandbookDocumentsCalling Cards/Cell PhonesTextbooksClothingLinensAppliancesComputersPrescriptions

6 Money MattersProgram FeesCurrencyBankingTransferring FundsCash for Arrival

7 ArrivalGroup FlightIndependent TravelOrientationHealth InsuranceHousingTelephones

8 Life in IsraelFood and DiningShopsHairdressers/BarbersGovernment and Other OfficesCultureEntertainment and Cultural Activities

Mail/Post OfficesTransportation: Getting Around Israel

Traveling Outside of Israel

10 Names and Numbers

BU in Haifa

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Getting Ready to Go

After Israel became a nation-state in 1948, Haifa becamethe country’s primary industrial center and Mediterraneanport. It has always remained somewhat at a distance fromthe ancient religious and ethnic strife of the rest of Israel.Haifa appears more Mediterranean than Middle Eastern; it issmaller than Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, with a more concen-trated and secular sense of community. The tiers of the cityrising up the side of Mount Carmel in northern Israelnaturally separate Haifa’s many functions as an industrialport, a center of learning, and a place of residence. Its manyreligious groups—Baha’is, Jews, Christians, Muslims, andDruze—share the streets of markets and high rises withcomparatively little tension.

In Haifa, program participants have the unique opportunityto learn Hebrew in one of the few societies where it is stillspoken daily. Students also have the opportunity to studyArabic. They can also explore fully the various cultures ofmodern Israeli society in the city of 400,000, including thecoexisting Arab-Israeli neighborhoods of the city and thediverse student community at the University of Haifa.

HELPFUL WEBSITES• Students Abroad Websitewww.studentsabroad.state.gov

This website created by the Department of State offers valuable information for students studying or travelingabroad. The website is an excellent resource to refer tobefore and during your semester abroad. In addition topractical information such as instructions on obtaining apassport and American Embassy contact information, thewebsite also provides health tips and links for informationregarding immunizations and health precautions to takeabroad. Visit the Smart Travel section for insights for GLBTtravelers, women, and travelers with disabilities as well asinformation pertaining to local laws and packing for interna-tional travel. The website provides two checklists in its ToGo section: a “Prep-list” and a “Pack-list” to help you keepyou on track as you prepare for your experience overseas.

• University of Haifa, International Schoolwww.uhaifa.org

• The University of Haifa International School Facebook www.facebook.com/haifainternational

• Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs www.mfa.gov.il

• Lonely Planet –Israel www.lonelyplanet.com/destinations/middle-east(more specifically: www.lonelyplanet.com/israel-and-the-palestinian-territories)

• Embassy of Israel, Washington, DCwww.israelemb.org

• Israel Consulate–Bostonwww.israelinne.org

• Ha’aretz Online–Daily Newspaper www.haaretz.com

• Jerusalem Post–Daily Newspaper www.jpost.com

• United States Embassy–Tel Avivhttp://telaviv.usembassy.gov

• How to Call Abroadwww.howtocallabroad.com

Academics

PRE-SEMESTER ACTIVITIESPrior to the commencement of the regular semester at theUniversity of Haifa, students have several options forenriching their experience in Israel. These may include anulpan (intensive Hebrew language program), IntensiveBeginning Arabic at the University of Haifa or a credit-bearing study tour.

These options will vary from semester to semester; pleasecontact BU Study Abroad for the most up-to-date informa-tion.

“I learned the language far beyond my expectations, and I met many wonderful Israeli friends.”

Self-AssessmentThink strategically about setting your goals foryour semester in Haifa.

• Why is this particular program of interest to you?

• List and evaluate your personal and academic interests. What do you enjoy doing in your spare time? Why did you choose your major? What courses have you enjoyed taking?

• How does the program relate to your course of study in college, career plans, and other interests?

• How and what can you contribute to make your semester in Haifa a success?

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Academic Conduct CodeAll students participating in a Boston University interna-tional program are expected to maintain high standards ofacademic honesty and integrity. It is the responsibility ofevery student to be aware of the Academic Conduct Code’scontents and to abide by its provisions. The AcademicConduct Code can be found at www.bu.edu/cas/students/undergrad-resources/code.

UNIVERSITY OF HAIFA COURSEWORKThe International SchoolThe International School coordinates the academic andadministrative aspects of the program. It is located in theMulti-Purpose Building of the University of Haifa in rooms177-184.

You will be taking most of your classes at the University ofHaifa through the International School. Students cannormally take coursework equivalent to 16-20 BU credits.These can be taken in any combination from theInternational School course offerings (please refer to theirwebsite at www.uhaifa.org for a current course listing).Students participating in the Boston University program forone semester generally take an intensive language course inHebrew or Arabic, a course on some aspect of Israeliculture, politics, or history, and two more courses, either inthe International School or in the other departments of theUniversity of Haifa.

Intensive Hebrew (Ulpan)The Ulpan (intensive Hebrew language program) is apopular option that precedes the regular semester. Pleasenote that the Ulpan will count as 4 credits and continuationof Hebrew throughout the rest of the semester will count as6 credits for a total of 10 credits of Hebrew language.

Intensive ArabicFor students interested in studying the Arabic Language,there are several options available. In August, before thesemester begins, students can take the Intensive ArabicLanguage course which grants five credits. During thesemester, students can choose to study Modern StandardArabic, which focuses on acquiring the Arabic alphabet andpronunciation for beginners, and reading and writing skillsfor the Intermediate and Advanced classes. Additionally,there is a Spoken Arabic Course which focuses on vocabu-lary and grammar skills.

Please note: If you choose to do the pre-semester Ulpan orIntensive Beginning Arabic Program, you are obligated tocomplete it, as staying in University of Haifa housing iscontingent upon enrollment in courses.

Boston University Transcript ExampleThe University of Haifa International School will send BostonUniversity a transcript. The BU Study Abroad Office thenconverts the grades and credits and sends them to BostonUniversity’s Registrar. An example of a Boston UniversityHaifa program transcript follows:

Fall 2008 STUDY ABROAD IN HAIFA, ISRAEL CAS HL300E HEBREW LANG: ELEM 1 4.0 A CAS HL310E HEBREW LANG: ELEM 2 6.0 A CAS HL320E MOD STANDARD ARABIC 3.0 A- CAS HL330E CONTEMPORARY ISRAEL 3.0 A CAS HL340E ISRAELI POLIT SYSTEM 3.0 A

You are allowed up to 20 credits without incurring anoverload charge. Please plan your schedule (and participa-tion in the Ulpan) accordingly. Students who plan to takeArabic in Haifa are encouraged to speak with their academicadvisor to determine how the credits will transfer.

Taking Courses in the Regular Division of the University of HaifaStudents with sufficiently advanced Hebrew skills areencouraged to take courses outside of the InternationalSchool. Though texts are often in English, the ability tounderstand a lecture in Hebrew is essential for success inthese courses. Many of the faculty are fluent in English andpapers can frequently be written in English. English andAmerican literature courses are taught in English and manyoverseas students take them. Students must note that theacademic calendar for the other departments of the univer-sity is somewhat different from the International School.Since other departments’ courses begin in late October anddo not finish until late January, students studying in Haifa forthe fall semester only can not take other courses at theUniversity. Students studying for the academic year orspring semester only may take courses in the other depart-ments of the university. The University of Haifa offerscourses primarily in humanities, social sciences, andeducation.

INTERNSHIPSStudents are able to participate in internships for academiccredit. Boston University will award a maximum of fourcredits for an internship. Students can choose a 15 hours perweek internship which grants four credits, or a 12 hour perweek internship which grants three credits. Placements varyaccording to students’ interests, backgrounds, and languageabilities. Internships are offered in medical services, archae-ology, education, public relations, social work, and women’s

“The most important thing I learned about Israelfrom my courses was about Israeli politics. Thepolitical scene was so intense, especially while I wasthere, that it was important to understand exactlywhat was going on in the Israeli government.”

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studies, among other fields. If you are interested in beingconsidered for an internship, fill out the relevant section onthe online application. Past placements have included: theInstitute of Evolutionary Biology; Haifa and Galilee ResearchCenter; Reuben and Edith Hecht Museum; Institute for theStudy of Psychological Stress; the Arab-Jewish Center.

ACADEMIC POLICIESRegistration for Your Semester AbroadFinal selection and registration of courses takes place uponarrival on site in Haifa. You are expected to register for fouror five courses for a total number of credits not to exceed20.

If you are arranging ahead of time to get approval for yourcourses, you are encouraged to get approval for morecourses than you actually intend to take so that you havesome flexibility when registering for classes. Only a depart-mental advisor or departmental director of undergraduatestudies can determine course equivalencies for major orminor credit.

Transfer of Credits (Non-BU Students)If you are not a Boston University student, please make surethat your credits will transfer to your home university beforeyou leave. We can not stress enough how important this is.It is up to your university to grant transfer credit.

AttendanceYou are expected to attend each class session, field trip, andany other course-related event. There is no cut allowance,and attendance and class participation will influence yourgrade for the course. In cases of chronic absenteeism, youwill be required to account for your absence by eitherpersonal explanation to the course instructor and/or to thedirector.

If you have been absent excessively from a course, you maybe required to withdraw from that course without credit. Ifyou expect to be absent from a class, you must notify yourinstructor and the director in advance, preferably in writing.If you are absent from class for more than two days formedical reasons, please seek medical attention.International School courses are taught Monday-Thursdayonly. Students are encouraged to travel on the weekends andtrips are often planned through the school.

TardinessAll students must make every effort to be on time for allscheduled meetings and class sessions and should notify theappropriate persons by phone or written message of extenu-ating circumstances that result in tardiness. If you shouldarrive late to class, please minimize the effects of yourarrival; it will be disruptive, and some instructors will nottolerate it until break time.

CourseworkYou are expected to turn in all course assignments on time;turning in assignments late will have a negative effect onyour grades. All academic commitments must be completedbefore you leave Haifa; no incompletes are permitted.Students who do not complete a course on time will begiven an “F.” In addition, students are not permitted to auditcourses or to take courses on a pass/fail basis.

Students enrolled in an internship must complete theinternship and all the academic work related to it, regard-less of the transfer credit policy of their home institutions.The internship is a serious academic endeavor, requiring thecompletion of all assignments. Students are expected tofulfill all the requirements of the program, including theinternship and the academic component attached to it.

GradesSpring semester grades from the University of Haifa areusually received by Boston University in late summer andmay not be posted to your BU transcript until September.Fall semester grades are usually received in February andmay not be posted to your transcript until March. BU StudyAbroad notifies the Office of Financial Aid of programs withlate transcripts so that aid recipients are not penalizedfinancially. Non-BU students should contact their studyabroad office or office of financial aid to determine how alate transcript might affect them.

Dean’s ListStudents studying abroad should be aware that differencesin the academic calendar at Boston University and at yourstudy abroad program site may mean that grades from yoursemester abroad are reported after the computations for theDean’s List have been made. As the semester abroad mayend later than the semester on the home campus, grades forsome programs may not arrive in time to be countedtowards the Dean’s List. In this case, students are advised tonotify the office of Student Records or the Dean of Students’office in order to request that grades earned on a BU studyabroad program be counted towards the Dean’s List. It is thestudent’s responsibility to bring this to the attention of thestudent records office.

UNIVERSITY LIBRARIESThere is a library in the University’s main building, which youmay use with the student I.D. card that you will get from theInternational School office. Do not forget to bring this cardwith you because you can not get into the library without it.The library carries books in Hebrew, Arabic, and English. TheEnglish selection is large enough to complete researchpapers for overseas courses.

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OTHER INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY FACILITIESUniversity BookstoreLocated on the ground floor of the main building, the newlyrenovated bookshop is where you can buy textbooks, schoolsupplies and CDs.

Gym AccessFor a fee (approximately $60), you may register for amembership to the campus gym, giving you access to thetennis courts, weight room, squash courts, and more.

Student Government Association (AgudatHaStudentim)The Student Government Association, Agudat HaStudentim,sponsors many cultural, academic, and social campus activi-ties. You are encouraged to take advantage of the activitiesit sponsors. You will be required to pay a non-member pricefor tickets, etc.

CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIESThe University of Haifa International School provides acomplete program of social and cultural activities to enablestudents to explore and understand Israel as much aspossible.

Each semester or summer session begins with a tour aroundHaifa, enabling the student to become familiar with the city.Then, throughout the student's stay in Haifa, there will bethe opportunity to participate in trips throughout Israel, fromthe green and lush north to the dry and arid south. Includedare three overnight trips per semester.

Past excursions have included overnight camping trips to theGalilee, the Golan Heights, Jerusalem, and the Negev.Academic tours (trips mandatory for a specific class) takeplace on Sundays when there are no classes, so thatstudents who are not in the class may join the tour as well.Students have found these day trips very enriching andprovide excellent insight into Israeli society, culture andhistory.

On top of the trips and tours, social and cultural activitiessuch as concerts by Israeli performers, lectures about Israelisociety and holiday celebrations are routinely offered.Weekly activities include Sunday Night at the Movies,Tarbut Yom Gimmel (Cultural Tuesday) and on Wednesdaynights there is a Salsa Party open to students from the entireuniversity. There are always various workshops, lectures,conferences and events which take place on campus whichare open to students from the International School.

Cultural ImmersionStudents can take even further advantage of the opportunityto become part of Israeli society in 2 different ways. Firstlythere are several volunteer opportunities both on and off-campus and secondly on holidays and the Sabbath studentsmay request to join a local family for a festive meal, whichhas been proven to be rewarding for both the student andthe families involved.

Social Activities Coordinators (Madrichim)The International School employs full-time Madrichim whobuild and implement the social activities program. TheMadrichim live on campus, and it is their responsibility toassist you in immersing yourself in campus life as much aspossible. All social activities planned by the InternationalSchool are included in the tuition fee, so we encourage youto take advantage of them all. Activities planned by outsideproviders, but advertised for you through us may have acharge.

What to Bring

In addition to the items listed in your Student Handbook, besure to bring:

HAIFA PROGRAM HANDBOOKBring this book and your Student Handbook with you toHaifa. It contains information you will find helpful during thesemester.

DOCUMENTSPassport and VisaIf you are traveling on a US passport, it is recommended butnot required, to get a student visa. If you do not have astudent visa, you will be given a tourist visa upon arrival inIsrael. The overseas department will assist you in changingthis to a student visa. A fee must be paid to the IsraeliDepartment of the Interior. You will have problems enteringand leaving the country if you fail to obtain a student visa

ClimateThe temperature in the Haifa area is generallyin the 50s during the winter; in the spring andsummer, the temperature goes above 80˚. Thecoolest times of the day are the mornings andevenings. The University area is very windyand can therefore get cooler than one mightexpect in Israel.

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eventually. If for some reason you plan to visit countrieswhich do not have diplomatic relations with Israel, youshould have your Israeli tourist visa stamped on a separatepaper, and not in your passport. If you are traveling on anon-US passport, please contact the Israeli Consulate inBoston at 617-542-0041 to find out if you are required toobtain a visa.

If you obtain a student visa before you arrive in Israel youwill both eliminate any problems at the airport as well as theneed to renew your tourist visa. Instructions for applying foran Israeli visa are included in your pre-departure forms atwww.bu.edu/abroad/forms.

Student IdentificationBring your home college or university student I.D. card as itis always helpful to have an extra form of photo identifica-tion. You also will be issued a University of Haifa IdentityCard which will give you access to its library and allUniversity events. If you plan on traveling outside of Israel, itis helpful to have an International Student Identity Card(ISIC), available from STA Travel. (www.statravel.com)

Passport-Size PhotosYou should already have supplied BU Study Abroad with thespecified number of photos along with your acceptancepaperwork. If you have not done so, please turn them inimmediately.

CALLING CARD AND CELL PHONESCheck with your US long distance carrier to obtain aninternational calling card for your calls back home to theStates. Most of the long distance companies offer thesecards and special calling plans for international calls. Thesecards will offer US rates which are usually less expensivethan other countries’ rates.

Note: The International School requires all students to haveor rent a cell phone with an Israeli number at their ownexpense. Details will be provided in a mailing from theUniversity of Haifa.

TEXTBOOKSAll textbooks will be purchased in Israel. It is common inIsrael for a professor to assign readings from severaltextbooks and expect students to copy the material in thelibrary.

CLOTHINGThe most important thing to remember when packingclothes is that whatever you pack will probably be morethan you will need. Since we hope you will bring as little aspossible, you will do best to bring more dark colors thanlights ones and to bring clothes that layer well. Dark clothingdoes not show wear as easily as light clothing does andtherefore may require less washing. The one thing many

What to Bring?

Recommend Items and Clothing• A few sweaters• A fleece• A jacket or coat• A sunhat, sunblock, and lip balm• Lightweight, wash-and-wear clothing, including shortsleeve shirts (such as T-shirts) and shorts;

• Two or three pairs of long pants• One or two nice outfits for more formal occasions

• Modest clothing for holy sites• Rain gear• A pair of sturdy walking shoes (the kind with thick rubber soles), Tevas or water shoes; and

• A bathing suit (there will be ample opportunity for swimming during the spring, summer, and fall)

• Bath towel

Miscellaneous• A small sewing kit—it will prove useful• Swiss Army knife—very important when traveling (don’t pack in your carry-on)

• Extra locks for your luggage• School supplies—can be purchased at the university

• Mosquito repellent• A water bottle• A flashlight;• A small knapsack;• Shoes for wearing in water;• Hiking boots (there are many opportunities togo on hikes)

• Hat for hiking trips;• Camera and film or memory cards• A travel guide to Israel (the Lonely Planet and Let’s Go guides are generally very reliable)

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travelers to Israel fail to realize is how chilly and rainy Israelcan be during the winter and that even summer eveningscan be cool enough to warrant a sweater. In addition, mostIsraeli homes (including the dormitories where you will beliving) are not centrally heated.

A few guidelines should be kept in mind when packing.Remember that whatever you pack, you will have to carryyourself; so pack lightly! You will need clothes suitable forboth the hot climate and for visiting religious sites. Mostreligious sites are not open to anyone dressed “immodestly.”Men and women must cover their legs, shoulders, necklines,and arms down to the elbow. In synagogues and most otherJewish holy sites, all heads must be covered.

LINENSBlankets and sheets are provided in the dormitories at theUniversity of Haifa, though some students have not beensatisfied with the quality. You should bring your owntowel(s). A sleeping bag is also useful, as many of the fieldtrips include sleeping outdoors.

APPLIANCESWe do not recommend that you bring any electricalappliances, but if you must, be sure to bring an adapter toconvert the voltage from 110 volts to 220 volts. It is best tobuy the adapter in the US. Items which work on a motor willoperate more slowly because the current in Israel is 50cycles (cycles control speed) as opposed to 60 cycles, theUS standard. The best way to avoid any problem is to makesure your appliances are dual voltage (110/220) and dualcycle (60/50). Avoid sending electronic items through themail because such items will be automatically charged avery high customs tax.

Alarm ClockBe sure to bring a small, non-electric alarm clock; a must soyou can be on time for classes and other obligations. Anelectric clock will take up outlet space, is vulnerable topower outages, and will need its own adaptor and converter.You can also use your Israeli cell phone as an alarm clock.

COMPUTERS AND E-MAILInternet-connected computers are located throughout theUniversity and dormitories and are free to use for allstudents. Wireless access is widely available, although notin dorm rooms. We recommend that you bring your ownlaptop.

If you do opt to bring a laptop, keep in mind the following:• It is possible to have a dial-up Internet connection in your dorm room, but it can be very expensive as rates forphone connection are charged by the minute.

• You should make a back-up of all the information/soft-ware on the computer.

• Computers should be insured, under your family’s generalhousehold policy or a specialized student insurancepolicy (check with companies such as Safeware (www.safeware.com, 1-800-800-1492) or National Student Services (www.nssinc.com) for specialized cov-erage), to the full value of the computer (including any peripherals, modem, CD ROM, etc.)

• A security kit is essential because of the possibility of theft. There are a range of kits from Kensington (www.kensington.com) or Targus (www.targus.com).

• Check whether your computer has a built-in trans-former (dual-voltage 110/220). Consult the computer’s manufacturer or the instruction manual for specific information on using your computer abroad.

PRESCRIPTIONS AND DRUG STORE ITEMSYou should bring copies of prescriptions for any medicationsyou may need and for glasses or contact lenses if you wearthem. Since prescription medications tend to be expensiveabroad and because it can sometimes be difficult to get theappropriate equivalent medication, we recommend that youbring an adequate supply of whatever medications you mayuse during the semester. In some cases, your insurance mayrequire a copy of your travel itinerary to cover a fullsemester’s supply. Any medications you do bring should bein the original, properly labeled bottles. You should alsobring an extra pair of glasses (or contact lenses) if you wearthem. We suggest you bring your preferred over-the-counterdrugs (Tylenol, Sinutab, etc.) in case you get a cold. There isnothing worse than trying to find the “right” cold medicine ina foreign country when you do not feel well. Other items youmay want to consider bringing include: deodorant, contactlens solution (saline solution is very expensive abroad),sunscreen, and Tylenol, if you prefer it to aspirin.

Money Matters

PROGRAM FEESFor information about the program fee and personalbudgeting guidelines visit: www.bu.edu/abroad/aid/finances.html.

You are expected to participate in all orientation and fieldtrip activities, the costs of which are covered by the programand are not refundable. The schedule for these activitiesvaries and is at the discretion of the International School andBoston University.

Important Note: The program fee for full academic-yearprogram participants (students who are participating in the

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Haifa program for both the fall and spring semesters)includes one round-trip group airfare; you will receive areduction in your spring semester program fee commensu-rate with the group flight costs for the Haifa program.If your academic schedule permits you to return homebetween semesters, you may wish to purchase a secondticket directly through the travel agent who arranges ourstudent flights or through an agent of your choice. Youwould be responsible for payment for this second ticket.

CURRENCYIsraeli currency is based on the new shekel (NIS) with onenew shekel equal to 100 agorot. Coins are issued in denomi-nations of 5 and 10 agorot, and 1, 2, 5 and 10 new shekels.Notes are issued in denominations of 20, 50, 100, and 200new shekels. Start familiarizing yourself now with thecurrency (both notes and coins) and the exchange rate. Youcan get information on exchange rates from websites likewww.xe.com.

BANKINGGiven the ready availability of ATMs and acceptance ofcredit cards, you probably won’t find it necessary to open abank account in Israel. There is a bank on campus thataccepts international ATM cards. We do not recommendopening a bank account in Israel due to the high mainte-nance and service charges. If you do plan to open anaccount in Israel, inquire with your US bank as to who itsforeign correspondents are and ask for a letter of introduc-tion. It is best to bring a certified check with which to openthe account. Bank HaPoalim has a branch on campus, whichis convenient.

Expect more limited banking hours than you may beaccustomed to in the US. Generally, banks in Haifa are openSunday-Thursday.

TRANSFERRING FUNDSTravelers’ ChecksOne safe way to get your money to your destination is bycarrying travelers’ checks. Once you reach your destinationyou can deposit them all in a local bank or keep them in asafe place with your belongings. Keep in mind that even ifyou are able to purchase travelers’ checks without a fee (forexample, through AAA), there is likely to be a charge foreach transaction when you cash them. Students shouldleave a list of all travelers’ check numbers at home and keepa record of those they spend in case any are lost or stolen.

Make sure that you bring your travelers’ checks in largedenominations (eg. $100) as each transaction carries a highexchange fee. If you plan on traveling, it is a good idea tohave your travel money in small denominations ($20) soyou can cash small amounts if you need money just before

leaving a country. In recent years, most students have optedfor using a combination of ATM cards and credit cards (seebelow instead of Travelers’ checks.)

ATMsInstead of only using travelers’ checks (as used to be thecustom), many students now rely on a combination of anATM card and credit card. Remember to bring both types ofcards with you, as your ATM card will be useless if itbecomes demagnetized, damaged, or lost.

With your ATM card from home, you will be able towithdraw funds from your US checking account. Althoughthere will probably be a fee for each transaction at anotherbank’s ATM machine, you will be charged the bank’sexchange rate in effect on that day, which is typically betterthan the one used for normal currency exchanges. US banksvary widely in the charges they attach to foreign ATMwithdraws; shop around well before leaving and considermoving your account based on what you learn.

Note:Money deposited into your US bank account duringthe normal working day is typically updated on the USbank’s computer at midnight that day, which means youcannot withdraw money until the Israeli bank’s computershave similarly updated their records at midnight thefollowing night—in other words, there will generally be adelay of 2 business days before you can access those funds.Details for using ATM cards abroad vary from bank to bank.For some banks, you will need to inform them that you planto use your ATM card abroad so that bank officials can allowoverseas card transactions. Be persistent in finding outinformation on service fees and restrictions.

If your ATM Personal Identification Number (PIN) is not fourdigits long, change it to four digits before you leave the USMany machines cannot accept a longer PIN and some donot have letters on their keyboard.

Credit CardsCredit cards are a very good emergency money source andsome students use them for the whole semester, taking cashadvances. Please be aware that many credit card companiesassess a fee each time the card is used abroad. The fee maybe hidden on the credit card statement. Check with yourcredit card company for information on restrictions andguidelines. Holders of these cards can get cash on the spotfrom participating banks. Students have found that Visa andMastercard are more useful than American Express or theDiscover Card.

CASH FOR ARRIVALYou should plan to exchange $100 into Israeli shekel beforeyou leave so that you will have money to use when you firstarrive in Israel. Small denominations are best. You may alsowant to carry some US currency.

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You should carry your cash and other valuables (travelerschecks, passport, visa, debit/credit cards) in a money beltthat you can wear around your waist concealed under yourclothes.

Arrival

GROUP FLIGHTYour program fee includes round-trip group airfare from adesignated US city to Tel Aviv. It does not include groundtransportation between Haifa and Tel Aviv on your arrival orreturn, so please plan accordingly. You will receive separateinformation on group flight arrangements. You need tocontact the travel agent who arranges our student flightsdirectly to book your flight; Boston University does not dothis for you.

INDEPENDENT TRAVELTo receive authorization to travel independently, studentstraveling to Israel on their own must notify BU Study Abroadin writing of their travel plans. A credit for the cost of thestudent’s group airfare will be placed on the student’saccount a few weeks prior to departure.

ORIENTATIONThere will be a general orientation in Boston and a detailedorientation on site, at the University of Haifa, where you willreceive additional materials concerning the University ofHaifa and current events in Israel.

HEALTH INSURANCEAll Boston University students are required to have healthinsurance provided by a US-based carrier. All internationalstudents are also provided with health insurance by Harel-Yedidim Insurance Agency, an Israeli health insurancecompany. Students must disclose all pre-existing medicalproblems, as the policy does not cover pre-existingconditions. The policy covers expenses for visits to thedoctor’s office, medication, doctor-requested medical tests,

and full hospitalization. Billing is done directly by themedical server to the insurance company. The Israeli policyis valid only in Israel, but there is an option to purchaseadditional health insurance coverage for travel outside ofIsrael. An agent of this insurance company will be availableduring orientation to provide you with more information andto open such a policy for you.

HOUSINGStudent Dormitories “Meonot”Double and single rooms are available. The doubles are insuites with three bedrooms (each with two students), abathroom, kitchenette with two gas burners, and commondining space. Singles are available in apartments with fiveother students, each with single rooms. Each bedroom has aprivate bath, while the kitchenette, living and patio spacesare shared. Sheets, pillows, blankets, toilet paper and lightbulbs are provided. There are public telephones, washingmachines and dryers in the dorm. Students may also rent aprivate telephone for their room. Students must providetheir own towels. Cookware, plates, silverware, glasses andcups can be purchased inexpensively in stores near thecampus or in the market in Hadar. Food can be purchased ina grocery store on campus or in the area. The University hasa number of restaurants and cafeterias open throughout theday.

Personal Property InsuranceEach student is encouraged to review his or her family’spersonal property insurance coverage. Boston University orany of its officers, agents, or representatives shall not beliable directly or indirectly for loss and/or damage topersonal property by fire, theft, or other cause.

TELEPHONESAll students are required to have a cell phone with an Israelinumber. If they do not bring their own cell phone, they canrent a cell phone through Talk ‘N Save for the period of timethat they will be in Israel. The University of Haifa has signeda contract with Talk ‘N Save, providing students with a planthat offers reduced rates on international calls and inexpen-sive rates to other Haifa students on the same plan. Inaddition, the University of Haifa will be able to send textmessages to all students on the plan automatically, meaningyou will be automatically updated about safety and securityissues as well as announcements regarding classroomchanges, class cancellations, etc.

For detailed information about cell phone rental as well as toorder your cell phone, please visit the following website:www.talknsave.net/schools/haf-389.asp (for students whowill be in Israel for more than three months) orhttp://talknsave.net/schools/haf-491.asp (for students whowill be in Israel for less than three months).

On-Site ContactsYour main contacts at the University of HaifaInternational School are Karen Doryoseph,Director of Admissions (kdor@univ.haifa.ac.il)and Tamar Vital, Administrative Director(tvital@univ.haifa.ac.il)

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There are public telephones in the dormitories andthroughout campus. They operate with telecards that arepurchased at the campus post office.

Life in Israel

FOOD AND DININGIn every building on campus you can find a cafeteria, whichsells sandwiches, cakes, coffee, etc. You can buy lunch in theMain Building restaurant, which is open 12 p.m.–2 p.m. Agrocery store is located in the dormitory complex.

FalafelFalafel is the national street food of Israel. There are abouttwenty falafel stands on HeHalutz Street and many moredowntown.

Supermarkets and Markets (Shuk Talpiot)• Supersol Denia, on Liberia Street• Merchaz Horev• Romena, can be reached by taking bus #24• Hamashbir, in Hadar at 1 Yo’nna Street• The University Minimarket• Shuk Talpiot (market) Sirkin Street, in Hadar• Shuk Talpiot (market) Kikar Paris, downtown

Both markets have stalls for fruits and vegetables, groceries,butchers, spices, nuts, etc. Try to shop Monday orWednesday for the freshest produce. The markets are veryinexpensive and wonderful.

SHOPSShops are usually open Sunday–Thursday from 9 a.m. to 7p.m. and on Fridays from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.Supermarkets and large chain stores are open until around10 p.m. There are several large malls in the Haifa area thatare open until 10 p.m.

HAIRDRESSERS AND BARBERS Most hairdressers and barbers are open Sunday–Thursdayfrom 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and on Mondays from 8:00p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Check locally for Friday hours.

GOVERNMENT AND OTHER OFFICESGovernment and other offices are generally open in themornings, Sunday through Thursday. Offices are closed onFridays.

CULTURESiesta Time In Israel siesta time is between 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. Ifyou need to call someplace, try before 2:00 p.m. or after4:00 p.m. People generally drop in for coffee around 5:00p.m. and evening entertaining begins around 9:00 p.m.

SaturdaysRemember, in Israel, most stores and places of entertain-ment are closed on the Sabbath (Shabbat), which starts onFriday night and ends on Saturday night. Buses do run inHaifa and its surroundings on Saturdays (but not on Fridaynight), but the schedule is far less frequent than on theother days of the week and not all buses run. The train to TelAviv also has limited hours Friday afternoon throughSaturday.

ENTERTAINMENT AND CULTURAL ACTIVITIESMuseums, Institutes, and Galleries• The Museum of Ancient Art, 26 Shabtai Levy Street.Displays archaeological collections of Mediterranean cultures from the beginning of history until the Islamic conquest of the 7th century.

• The Ethnological Museum and Folklore Archives, 15 Tiverya Street.

• The Haifa Music Museum and Amli Library, 23 Arlozorov Street.

• The Tikotin Museum of Japanese Art, 89 Hanassi Avenue. Has examples of almost all kinds of Japanese arts and crafts.

• The Prehistoric Museum, “M. Stekelis,” The Natural History Museum, The Municipal Zoo, and The Biological Institute, are all located together at 124 Hatishbi Street.

• The National Maritime Museum, 198 Allenby Road.Encompasses 5,000 years of seafaring along the coast ofIsrael.

• The Illegal Immigration and Naval Museum, 204 Allenby Road. Details the story of illegal immigration during theBritish Mandate.

MoviesThere are many movies showing in Israel. A listing can befound in the daily papers. Movies usually change onSaturdays. There is a movie theater, Cinemateque, in theCarmel Center, which changes movies every night.

Folk Dancing• Beit Rothschild at the Carmel Center• University• Technion

“The length of the program and the combination oftravel and university was better than any other Israelprogram I have heard of ...”

10 Boston University Study Abroad Haifa

Beaches• Hof Studentim (Student Beach) is where many University of Haifastudents spend their Saturdays. It is easiest to take a cab with agroup to get there.

• HaHof ha Shaket (The Quiet Beach) is not recommended because you are likely to get hassled there.

• Hof Dado (Dado Beach), take bus 46 directly from campus.

Nature and Hiking GroupsHa’chevra Le Haganat Hateva (Nature Preservation Society) organizeshikes on weekends and vacations and the University area offers plentyof opportunities for walking around mountains, forests, mushroomedwoods, and some wildlife. The Carmel Nature Reserve is located nextto the university. It is one of the nicest parks in Israel.

MAIL/POST OFFICESThere are post offices located in the Horev Center and on 22 MoriahStreet. The University post office, located in the Main Building, is openSunday–Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Incoming mail is distributed from the International School andstamped mail may be sent out from there as well. You will be given amailbox at the overseas office where you will receive your mail.

TRANSPORTATION: GETTING AROUND ISRAELThere are many ways to travel within Israel, cars, buses, trains, Arkia(Israel’s domestic airline), and taxis. The most popular way is to travelby bus. Tel Aviv is about 1 hour away, and Jerusalem is about 2 hours.There are two main bus companies: Dan, which operates in Tel Aviv,and Egged, which operates everywhere else. As a student you areentitled to a discount on the buses and trains but you have to show anofficial student’s card. Schedules and routes are subject to change. Ashared taxi service, or "sherut", is also offered in the Haifa area.Sheruts follow the popular buslines with a bus number displayed intheir windows. These are generally cheaper, safer, and faster thanbuses.

TRAVELING OUTSIDE OF ISRAELWhen independent travel takes you outside of Haifa, you shouldalways consult with the International School Office at the Universityof Haifa and www.travel.state.gov to find out if there are any specificissues you should be aware of at your destination.

The International Student Travel Agency (ISSTA) can be very helpful.They have an office on campus, as well as on 28 Nordau Street inHadar.

11 Boston UniversityStudy Abroad Haifa

10 BostonUniversity International Programs Haifa

Names and Numbers

Boston University Haifa ProgramUniversity of Haifac/o International SchoolHaifa, 31905ISRAEL

Phone: 011-972-4-8240766Fax: 011-972-4-8240391E-mail: info@mail.uhaifa.orgwww.uhaifa.org

Karen Doryoseph, Director of AdmissionsE-mail: kdor@univ.haifa.ac.il

Tamar Vital, Administrative DirectorE-mail: tvital@univ.haifa.ac.il

OTHER USEFUL NUMBERSAdvantage TravelSally CurtisPhone: 315-471-2222

On Call International(Emergency Travel Assistance)Phone: 603-328-1956

US Consular Agent in HaifaPhone: 04-853-1470

US Embassy Tel AvivPhone: 03-519-7475

Emergency Telephone NumbersStudents experiencing any kind of emergency whileabroad should contact Karen Doryoseph or TamarVital during the portion of the program at theUniversity of Haifa as quickly as possible to obtainadvice and/or assistance.

Parents who need to contact their son or daughterabroad in an emergency should first call him/her athis/her residence or cell phone. If the student can notbe reached there, the parent should contact KarenDoryoseph or Tamar Vital.

University of Haifa Emergencies:• 011-972-4-8240766• 011-972-52-8666-406 (mobile)

Please remember the time difference. Haifa is sevenhours ahead of Eastern Standard Time.

You will be notified of any changes in the emergencycontact numbers.

888 Commonwealth AvenueBoston, Massachusetts 02215

Phone: 617-353-9888Fax: 617-353-5402E-mail: abroad@bu.edu

www.bu.edu/abroad

All of the foregoing information is subject to change without notice.

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