We are officially three weeks into our 18 week semester in Israel. We have traveled to many places such as Tel Aviv, Haifa, and many others. During these trips I have seen many cultural differences and these are the most prominent ones I have seen.

The first, and possibly largest difference between Israelis and Americans is the level of formality. Americans speak and interact much more formally when compared to an Israeli’s free-flowing, informal interactions. Americans interact very differently depending on the recipient and even customize each message differently for different audiences. You wouldn’t talk to your boss the same way you talk to your annoying little brother, would you? In Israel, they would! To Israelis, they interact with everyone in the exact same way. The Israeli culture is very informal and therefore does not have the same hierarchical structure that America has. This difference in communication can sometimes create a perceived communication barrier between Americans and Israeli, when really it is just a difference in manners.

Along with the formality, Israelis are often much more direct and confrontational than Americans. If you ask an Israeli a question, they will be honest, and in exchange, expect the same. Americans are often known to “sugar-coat” things, but that is not the case in Israel. Israelis will also directly confront anyone when there is an issue or confusion with anything. This may seem abrasive at first, but once you understand that it is just part of the culture and is not personal, you can relax and enjoy the freedom of honest communication without fear of offending your new Israeli friends. There is something refreshing about the open and direct style of Israeli communication. Just consider yourself part of the family and join in.

Similar to many other countries, Israel is a country that loves to negotiate. Because of that very few things are actually labeled with a price tag. Their prices are almost entirely subjective and sometimes tourists are given higher prices than locals, unless you know that it is alright to negotiate. So when you visit a market, do your best to blend in with the crowd and don’t be afraid to bargain with almost every person you encounter.