Step by Step
Getting Here
Travelling to the Israel Junior Open 2027 is straightforward. The airport, hotel and venue are all excellently connected.
1
Fly into Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV)
Tel Aviv is served by Ben Gurion International Airport (IATA: TLV), located approximately 20 km south-east of the city centre. Direct flights are available from most major European cities and many international hubs. The airport is modern and well-connected.
2
Take the direct train to Tel Aviv HaShalom Station
From the airport, board the direct train to Tel Aviv HaShalom Station. The journey takes approximately 20–25 minutes and trains run frequently — except on Shabbat (Friday afternoon to Saturday after dark), when trains do not operate. If you arrive during Shabbat, take a taxi or sherut instead (see Practical Info below). No connection required — it is a direct service. The train departs from Terminal 3 at Ben Gurion Airport.
3
2-minute walk to the Crowne Plaza (official hotel)
Tel Aviv HaShalom Station is located directly beneath the Azrieli Center complex. The Crowne Plaza Tel Aviv City Center is a 2-minute walk from the station exit, within the same complex. No taxi or shuttle required from the station to the hotel.
4
6-7 minute walk from hotel to courts
The Squash Club Migdali Tel Aviv is located 0.7 km (approximately 6-7 minutes walk) from the Crowne Plaza. There is no shuttle between the hotel and the venue. Light rail and taxis are also available from the hotel if preferred.
Arrival Support
All participants will receive detailed arrival instructions by email prior to the event. A dedicated WhatsApp group will be created for all attendees. Players who book the airport shuttle service will be met in the Arrivals Hall at Ben Gurion Airport by an Israel Squash Association representative. Full details will be included in the official tournament invitation.
Quick Reference
Distances at a Glance
~20
km
Airport → City
Ben Gurion TLV to Tel Aviv
0.2
km · 2 min
Station → Hotel
HaShalom → Crowne Plaza
0.7
km · 6-7 min
Hotel → Venue
Crowne Plaza → Squash Club
International Players
Entry to Israel
Most players will not need a visa, but a quick online travel authorisation (ETA-IL) is now required before flying. Please check your status well in advance.
Visa-Exempt Countries
ETA-IL Required
Passport holders from the EU, UK, USA, Canada, Australia and ~96 visa-exempt countries do not need a visa for a short tourist stay (up to 90 days) — but must obtain an approved ETA-IL online before boarding their flight.
ETA-IL Details
~$7 · Valid 2 Years
The official fee is about NIS 25 (~$7) and an approval is valid for up to 2 years. Apply early — it must be approved before departure, not on arrival.
If You Need a Visa
Apply Early
Players from countries that are not visa-exempt should apply for a tourist visa at the nearest Israeli consulate well in advance. We are happy to provide an official invitation letter to support your application.
Apply for your ETA-IL
Authorisations are issued by the Israel Population and Immigration Authority. Apply only through the official government site to avoid third-party fees. A valid passport (recommended 6 months beyond your travel dates) is required. Note that an ETA-IL lets you reach the border — it does not, by itself, guarantee entry.
Official ETA-IL site → Need a visa invitation letter? Contact us.
Official ETA-IL site → Need a visa invitation letter? Contact us.
Good to Know
Practical Info for International Players
A few Israel-specific things that are easy to overlook when travelling from abroad.
Shabbat — Friday afternoon to Saturday evening
Israel observes Shabbat from Friday afternoon until Saturday after dark. During this time the train from the airport and most buses do not run, and many shops and some restaurants close. As the tournament runs Friday–Sunday, plan ahead: if you arrive on Friday or need to travel on Saturday, use a taxi or sherut (shared taxi), which operate throughout Shabbat. Good news — the official hotel and the venue are a short walk apart, so once you are here you are unaffected.
Insurance
Travel & Medical Cover
We strongly recommend valid travel and medical insurance for every player and accompanying person, in line with ESF Junior Circuit guidance.
Getting Around
Transport in the City
Tel Aviv has a light rail, buses and taxis. Pay public transport contactlessly or with a Rav-Kav card. The Gett app is the most widely used for taxis, and metered street taxis are easy to find. Sherut shared taxis run even on Shabbat.
Stay Connected
SIM & Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi at the venue and hotel. For mobile data, buy a local SIM at Ben Gurion Airport on arrival, or set up an eSIM online before you fly.
Emergency
Useful Numbers
Ambulance 101 · Police 100 · Fire 102. The nearest hospital is about 8 minutes by car; an on-site first aider is present during play.
Time & Weather
GMT+3 · Warm
Israel is on GMT+3 (IDT) in May. Expect warm, sunny weather around 22–28°C — bring light clothing, a hat and sunscreen.
Money & Power
Shekel · 230V
Currency is the Israeli Shekel (ILS); cards are widely accepted and ATMs are easy to find. Power is 230V/50Hz like Europe and standard European plugs fit — UK visitors need a simple adapter.
Health
Water & Vaccines
Tap water is safe to drink throughout Israel. No special vaccinations are required to enter the country.
Language
English Widely Spoken
Signage appears in Hebrew, English and Arabic, and English is widely spoken — you will have no trouble getting around.
About Tel Aviv
Welcome to Tel Aviv
Tel Aviv is one of the Middle East's most vibrant cities — a perfect destination for players and families visiting for the tournament.
Weather in May
Warm & Sunny
Expect temperatures of 22–28°C. Low rainfall. Perfect conditions for a sporting trip.
On-site
Shops & Restaurants
The Azrieli Center and Migdali Tel Aviv complex both offer restaurants, cafés, supermarkets and shops within walking distance.
Local Transport
Light Rail & Taxis
Tel Aviv's light rail, buses and taxis provide easy access to the beach, the Old City of Jaffa, and all major attractions.
