Editorials
What It’s Like Being Gay In Israel
The country has a liberal stance towards gay life.
Same-sex marriage in Israel still isn’t legal, and civil ceremony doesn’t exist at all. Israel does, however, recognise same-sex marriage outside of its borders. Discrimination by employers based on sexuality was made illegal in 1992. A year later, gay, lesbian and bisexual people could be part of the military while remaining open about their sexuality. It’s still far from equal, but it is by far the most ‘cosmopolitan’ part of the Middle East.
The city houses plenty of gay nightlife. Evita bar hosts plenty of different things, including Eurovision karaoke, drag, hip hop and soul nights. It’s a very popular gay bar, always full of happily inebriated partygoers. World class DJ Offer Nissim is also from Tel Aviv and the city has a vibrant dance scene. Hilton Beach has become Tel Aviv’s unofficial gay sunbathing spot, and the waves are perfect for surfing if you fancy showing off.
The city of Tel Aviv is a hub of life, and its first Pride Parade took place in 1998. Over the years, more and more people have joined together in the streets of Tel Aviv to celebrate the LGBT community until eventually, in 2014, the after-parade party had to be moved to a bigger beach. The Parade is a day of loud festivities, community and appreciation, and still continues to be bigger and better each year.
Coming round again on 3rd June 2016, the masses will march under the slogan ‘Tel Aviv Loves All Genders’. This focus on the transgender community will celebrate their integral role in Israeli society, as well as pledging support for equal rights.
We know where you will be welcome, and where to take more care.
Request a quote →Out Of Office provides a gay group trip to Israel, ending with a stay in Tel Aviv. The city is famous for its flea markets as well as its vibrant nightlife, so you can find plenty to see and do. And if you get the chance, the Gay Pride Parade is an incredible, overwhelming experience to be a part of.
You’ll also want to make sure you check out historic Jerusalem whilst you’re in the country to see where religions collide and also the incredible history of UNESCO world heritage sites like Masada before taking a swim (or a float!) in the Dead Sea.
Check out our full range of Israel trips with Out Of Office.
New to Out Of Office?
We are a luxury travel company for LGBTQ+ travellers. Everything we sell is tailor-made, planned by one named member of our team throughout, and nothing on this site is a fixed package unless it says so.
Where exclusivity meets inclusivity
Ten years, hundreds of five-star reviews, and a team who will tell you when a destination is not right for the trip you have in mind.
Suggested Tours
Israel and Jordan including Petra
Tailor-made HolidayThis eight-day journey immerses you in the ancient wonders and iconic sights of Israel before crossing into Jordan to marvel at the rose-red facades of Petra. Israel is a nation cradled in biblical history, where ancient ruins and sacred shrines coexist with vibrant modern culture. Your exploration begins in timeless Jerusalem, one of the world's most revered cities.
8 days tailor-made from £2,970 per person View trip
Explore Israel
Tailor-made HolidayEmbark on an extraordinary seven-day journey through Israel, a nation cradled in ancient wonders and biblical history. This meticulously crafted itinerary immerses you in the country's most iconic sites while experiencing its diverse landscapes and cultures. Israel is a kaleidoscope of picturesque vistas, from desert canyons to lush coastal plains, all layered with profound historical and religious significance. Your adventure begins in the ancient and hallowed city of Jerusalem.
7 days tailor-made from £2,400 per person View tripTell us where your mind keeps going back to. We will do the rest.
A line or two is enough to start. A specialist will pick it up from there.
Stellar service. Stellar products. Stellar people and it gets so much better when you pick up the phone and call.
Anthony S.
Super client centred service. From first contact I have had warm, efficient, friendly and flexible service.
John
I’m confident in giving Out Of Office a 5-star review! They are one of the leaders in this space without a doubt.
Tiberiu
We plant trees for every booking
For every booking made with Out Of Office we commit to planting trees in your name to help reduce the impact of travel on future generations. You'll even get a link to see where your trees are planted in the world via our partner Ecologi.
We donate to Rainbow Railroad with every booking
Rainbow Railroad helps LGBTQ+ people escape state-sponsored violence and persecution. A donation goes with every trip we sell, funded by us and never added to your price.
Start Planning Your Trip
Tell us where you would love to go, when you are thinking of travelling and what kind of trip you have in mind. One of our LGBTQ+ travel specialists will create a tailor-made itinerary designed around your destination, style and preferences.
One named specialist, first enquiry to homecoming. No call centre, and nothing is charged until you decide to book.