SHOPPING IN ISRAEL:  Israel, the world’s only Jewish state, is a small country about the size of Delaware, located on the Eastern shore of the Mediterranean.  Israel borders Lebanon and Syria to the North, Jordan to the East and Egypt to the Southwest.  The population of Israel is app. 7,200,000; the capital is Jerusalem and Hebrew is the official language.  The country has very ancient origins and is of significant interest to Jews, Muslims and Christians from all over the globe. This “land of the Bible” is popular with vacationers and travelers, and tourism is a significant part of the Israeli economy which makes shopping in Israel fascinating and plentiful.  Jerusalem, the largest city, is a favorite with travelers, and its history and diversity makes it perhaps the focal point of shopping in Israel.  Besides the more traditional shops, fashionable stores and shopping centers, shopping in Israel must include the fabulous open-air markets where the atmosphere is wonderfully frenzied and merchandise of every sort can be found.  Shopping in Israel is great for unique finds on hand-made jewelry, antiques, souvenirs and items of religious interest, “Judaica”, including beautifully crafted mezuzahs, menorahs, Seder plates and more.  When shopping in Israel, sample the local “street food”, especially the delicious falafel. Although small, the country is highly industrialized, and shopping in Israel can also include high-tech items.  Other popular cities for sightseeing and shopping in Israel include Eilat, Jaffa and Tel Aviv.