We are sitting at a cafe in the Mercaz HaCarmel(center) part of
Haifa looking at the shortest subway in the world. The Carmelit is
the only direct path to downtown Haifa and the city center.The city
is known for its hilly nature and winding roads. It reminds be of my
native Colorado but without the snow. Driving can be difficult not
only due to the terrain but a lack of parking and short fuses of many
Israeli drivers. Therefore, I choose to use public transportation
rather than own a car.
Haifa has buses, cabs, and a high speed train that connects with
cities such as Tel Aviv and Nahariya. The international airport known
as Ben Gurion is just an hour and a quarter trip from here. Internet
access is available plus power outlets to charge cell phones on
trains and many buses. . The noise from cell phone chatter often
drowns out other surrounding sounds. Due to quick and low cost
transportation many Haifa residents commute to work daily using
public services.
Buses are modern, air conditioned, and low cost The basic cost is
about $1.50 per ride but discount passes are available.I use what is
called a Rav Kav which gives me unlimited monthly rides at a very low
price. Buses operate seven days a week in Haifa but only major routes
on Saturday (Sabbath)
Cab rides are often entertaining as well as convenient. Most major
thoroughfares have cab stations and ongoing hail cabs. Fare are
negotiable and the mood of the driver is an important factor. It is
rare that the same trip has the same rate. Having an honest and
reliable cab driver in Haifa is a big plus.
Drivers only take cash and are often independent businessman. Many
cabs are manufactured by Mercedes Benz, but you see all makes of
vehicles. Cab riding is safe in Israel as robberies are rare. You can
sit in the front seat with your driver which was a new experience for
me. Not all drivers speak English Therefore it helps to have a your
destination written in Hebrew when you hail a cab.
Low cost coach service connects Haifa to most other Israeli
communities including Jerusalem. The country is small enough to visit
Nazareth, Jerusalem, and Tel Aviv in the same day.
For those us who like to walk, there are many trails, steps, and main
thoroughfares it is not unusual topass historical sites such as The
Bhai Gardens, the tomb of Elijah the Prophet, or the Madatech museum
which was co -founded by Albert Einstein.
So for would be visitors, Haifa is both accessible and offers low
cost travel.