are up to Western standards. Many Israeli pharmaceuticals are even licensed directly by the American FDA. Except in some Arab areas, hospitals in Israel are all up to Western standards.Israel has two official languages and they are Hebrew and Arabic. However, the country only practices two languages, which are Hebrew and English. Most signs in Israel are in Hebrew and English. Also, most Israelis speak Hebrew as their mother tongue, and English is the most popular second language.Israel's currency is the New Israeli Shekel. The current exchange rate is US$1 per 4.2 NIS. However, American dollars are used a great deal in Israel. For example, real estate prices are in dollars and payment is in shekels, according to the current exchange rate. Also, many industries set their prices according to the current dollar-shekel exchange rate. In addition, many businesses do accept U.S. dollars.There are many historical places in Israel such as Galilee, which is where Jesus Christ grew up. It is also where Tzefat and Tiberias are, two of the holiest cities in Judaism. Despite its importance, it has not always been a particularly beautiful place. Much has changed since the day of Christ. Over the last century, Jewish settlers have cultivated the land in Galilee, allowing it to be use to its full potential. The breathtaking views everywhere in Galilee.There is also an ancient seaport called Akko, which is one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities. The first recorded of Akko dates back to the reign of the pharaoh Thumtose III, who ruled from 1504 to 1450 BC. Since that time Akko has been captured several times and has been placed under the leadership of many empires and countries. The Assyrians captured Akko in 700 BC. Not too long afterward, Ptolemy of Egypt captured Akko, changing the city's name to Ptolemais. That name was kept until the Middle Ages. Following the period of Egyptian rule, Akko (Ptolemais) became a Ro...
