Tel Aviv Culture

While covering all cultural aspects of Tel-Aviv, which is probably one of the most culturally complex cities in the world is nearly impossible, this article tries to nail some of the key elements in the Tel-Aviv culture.

In general, culture defines a particular society at a specific place and time. This would include the social group’s taste in art, the manners of the people, shared values, beliefs, attitudes and behaviors. Culture goes further to encompass film, music, museums, books, comedy, critique and even drugs.

Jacky Says... If you had to mention drugs as part of the Tel-Aviv culture, I gotta say that the grass in Israel is not that strong. I know because when I was in college, I tried putting a joint in my mouth (but never inhaled).

Tel Avivian’s culture

Tel Avivian’s can be divided into two major demographic groups. The first respectful and esteemed group is the older population, the men and women who built this amazing city and enjoy a unique and honored status by Tel Aviv authorities and residents. The second and largest group is the young residents who flock by their masses to live in Tel Aviv, Usually after their army service (which is mandatory in Israel, 2 years for women and 3 years for men). You might be amazed of the high percentage of young people in “The city that never stops”. So be ready to party and to rock like Tel Avivian’s!

Tel Avivian’s say what they think

In contrast to many other citizens of various nations around the globe, Israelis and Tel Avivian’s in particular tend to give their opinions freely and openly. This applies in basic situations such as saying yes or no when offered a drink, as well as when discussing complex political issues (very common) over dinner with friends or with the taxi driver. In fact, some Tel Avivian’s enjoy debating and criticizing and consider it to be the Israeli national sport! If you would like to avoid the common phenomenon all you need to do, as the American author Elbert Hubbart wrote, is "do nothing, say nothing, be nothing"… Nevertheless, Tel Avivian’s are normally very friendly and hospitable towards tourists. Therefore, don’t be surprised if you will get a dinner or a party invitation from a Tel Avivian’s you’ve just met!

Paying your own way

When most Tel Avivian’s go out to social functions (normally every day), it is generally expected that each person will pay for themselves. The old custom of inviting a lady to dinner and open the door for her (‘ladies firsts’) do not apply in the open, liberal and equal society of Tel Aviv.

Spontaneous talking in conversation

Tel Avivian’s tend to be rather spontaneous and informal in their conversation. For people who come from societies (e.g., certain asian cultures) that highly respect the value of carefully-chosen words, it might take some time to get used to. However, the main advantage for tourists in this easy-going mentality is the infinite opportunities to say and ask everything, anytime and everywhere. Consequently, it’s pretty easy for tourists to get by and importantly to feel comfortable and welcomed. This also implies that Tel-Aviv introduces a special sense of freedom to its residents and visitors.

Casual dressing code

Tel Avivan’s like their casual, comfortable and trendy clothing. The reason being is the hot and humid weather that characterizes Tel Aviv most of the year. Since Tel Avivian’s live life to the edge and they need to be ready for fast changes in their social environment (from cafes, bars to the beach) they prefer untailored and informal clothes. Thus, don’t forget to bring a trendy pair of jeans and cool T-shirts or tops. This also implies that Tel-Avivians and Israelis in general tend to look under-dressed for formal occasions.

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