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Jerusalem skyline.

The Jewish state, surrounded by Muslim dominated countries of Egypt, Jordan, Syria and Lebanon, has endured periods of war mixed with periods of relative peace with its neighbors since its founding in 1948.

Today, Israel is a major draw for millions each year attracted to the countries strong ties with Judaism as well as with three other major religions including Christianity, Islam and the Bahá'í Faith.

As you travel throughout Israel, you're more often than not headed for a place of some religious significance. The capital city of Jerusalem alone boasts the site of the ancient Jewish Temple, the scene of Christ's passion and, for Muslims, the revered al-Aqsa Mosque.

The unofficial capital, Tel Aviv, is the vibrant metropolis that also incorporates the ancient port city of Jaffa.

Elsewhere, you can walk in the footsteps of David and Goliath in the Elah Valley, or visit the city that Joshua destroyed (Jericho, the second most excavated site after Jerusalem).

Of course, with all its revered relgious connections, Israel is a modern state with highly developed tourism ammenities, not the least of which is located in Haifa, a less well-known tourist destination offering world class beaches and family-friendly attractions.

More about Israel travel & tourist attractions around the Web:

Israel Wonders - The official site from the Ministry of Tourism, featuring itinerary planners for Jewish and Christian Israel, overviews of major attractions, searchable database of hotels, apartment rentals & Kibbutz accommodations, picture gallery, virtual tour.

Israel - Arthur Frommer 'best of" guide, featuring the luxury & bargain hotels, restaurants, beaches, ancient cities, museums & holy places, plus helpful travel planner and suggested itineraries, event calendar, related message boards.

Tel Aviv travel guide - Wikitravel information with insider tips on top attractions, city history, how to get around by bus, car or taxi, plus suggested hotels, clubs & nightlife, restaurants and markets, practical travel etiquette and safety tips.

Jerusalem Tourism - The navigation is often sloggy, but it's all here - including major attractions and hot spots, guides to major synagogues, mosques and churches, extensive directories to top restaurants and hotels, event calendar, related links.

Tour Haifa - A guide to the city's beaches, kid-friendly attractions & family fun, art & cultural attractions, searchable database of hotels & B & B's, maps & photo gallery.

Biblical Places - Stunning photos and captions explain the ancient connections between Biblical stories & locations with their modern counterparts in Israel, Egypt, Jordan, Greece and Turkey.

also see in Wine -> Wine Tours in Israel, Lebanon & Turkey