Language
The official language of Bethlehem is Arabic. However, English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Currency
The official currency of Bethlehem is the Jordanian dinar (JOD). However, Israeli shekels (ILS) are also widely accepted.
Distance
The distance between Erez and Bethlehem is approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles).
How to Reach
There are several ways to reach Bethlehem from Erez:
- Taxi: Taxis are available at Erez border crossing. The fare to Bethlehem is approximately 100 JOD (140 ILS).
- Bus: Buses depart from Erez bus station to Bethlehem every hour. The fare is approximately 15 JOD (20 ILS).
- Shared Taxi: Shared taxis are available at Erez border crossing. The fare to Bethlehem is approximately 20 JOD (28 ILS).
Expenses
The following are estimated expenses for a one-day trip from Erez to Bethlehem:
- Transportation: 30-100 JOD (42-140 ILS)
- Food: 15-25 JOD (21-35 ILS)
- Activities: 10-20 JOD (14-28 ILS)
- Souvenirs: 10-20 JOD (14-28 ILS)
Best time to go
The best time to visit Bethlehem is during the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and pleasant.
What to Eat
Bethlehem is home to a variety of restaurants serving traditional Palestinian cuisine. Some of the most popular dishes include:
- Maqluba: A dish of rice, vegetables, and meat cooked in a pot.
- Mansaf: A dish of lamb cooked in a yogurt sauce.
- Falafel: Deep-fried chickpea balls.
- Hummus: A dip made from chickpeas, tahini, and olive oil.
- Baklava: A pastry made from layers of filo dough, nuts, and honey.
Where to Go
There are several places to visit in Bethlehem, including:
- Church of the Nativity: The traditional birthplace of Jesus Christ.
- Milk Grotto: A cave where Mary is said to have breastfed Jesus.
- Shepherd's Field: The site where shepherds are said to have been visited by angels.
- Rachel's Tomb: The burial site of the biblical matriarch Rachel.
- Bethlehem Museum: A museum dedicated to the history and culture of Bethlehem.
FAQ
- Do I need a visa to visit Bethlehem?
US citizens do not need a visa to visit Bethlehem. However, citizens of some other countries may need to obtain a visa in advance. - Is Bethlehem safe to visit?
Bethlehem is generally considered to be safe for tourists. However, it is always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty crime. - What is the best way to get around Bethlehem?
The best way to get around Bethlehem is by foot or by taxi. There is also a limited public transportation system. - What is the cost of accommodation in Bethlehem?
The cost of accommodation in Bethlehem ranges from $20 to $100 per night, depending on the type of accommodation and the time of year. - What are the most popular tourist attractions in Bethlehem?
The most popular tourist attractions in Bethlehem include the Church of the Nativity, the Milk Grotto, Shepherd's Field, Rachel's Tomb, and the Bethlehem Museum.