Israel’s economy is hurting.
Between the worldwide meltdown of high-tech stocks and the huge decrease in the tourism industry, the country’s retailers and exporters are looking for business. The Internet gives you the opportunity to window shop and purchase some of Israel’s best exports from almost anywhere in the world. (And if you are an investor, the Web is an excellent first step for investigating business opportunities in Israel.)
Please note that shopping via the Internet can be quick, easy and enjoyable. But you should always take a few precautions. Any page asking for credit card or other private information should be “secure” — that is, it should have a Web address that begins with https:// If you are still nervous about ordering through the Internet, try fax, phone or mail. Always note duty and shipping costs and the Web site’s privacy and return policies. And if you still have any doubts, ask the business for references. And don’t be afraid to comparison shop. That same book or coin or CD may be offered by several online retailers at different prices.
I have not had commercial dealings with the Web sites mentioned in this column, so my mention of a site should not be interpreted as an endorsement.
Let’s shop! In the real world, shopping usually means going to the mall. Things aren’t very different online. These virtual malls are actually huge sites that carry many products from several retailers. At Israeli Wishes, you’ll find an assortment of Elite chocolate, kosher spices and children’s videos. And if you have someone special in Israel, you can send them flowers or a blueberry cheesecake at www.israeliwishes.com/private/store/ Over at the Judaica Web Store, you can purchase etrog boxes and computer software — and for a relaxing bath, Ahava Dead Sea products — at www.judaicawebstore.com
If you are crazy about Israeli soccer, you can show your loyalty by sporting a Beitar Jerusalem knapsack available from the IsraeliScent Web site. Don’t worry. It also carries Maccabi Tel Aviv and Hapoel Haifa souvenirs, plus a huge selection of books, videos and Judaica, at www.israeliscent.com
When you’re done with the malls, don’t forget to visit some of the smaller sites run by local businesses. The Farkash Gallery is a lovely art gallery located in the old city of Jaffa. In addition to works by Israeli artists, Farkash carries rare Judaica and wonderful old photographs of Israel. If you’re not planning a trip to Jaffa in the near future, you can still marvel at the gallery’s online exhibit of historic Israeli political, military and tourism posters. It will give a taste of Israel’s early years that you’ll never see in any history textbook. The site is www.farkashgallery. com/exihibitionPosterIndex.htm
For more large and small retailers, check out the links at Maven Shopping and Gifts: www.maven.co.il/subjects.asp?S=204, Google http://shlk.com/51 and Yahoo http://shlk.com/52
If you are considering investing in Israel, take a look at the Ministry of Industry and Trade’s English language Web site at www.moit.gov.il/tamas_en.asp
This extensive site has information about business development in Israel, the country’s economy, research and development, the Israel Export Institute and many ministry publications. Investors will also be interested in reading “Israel’s Business Arena,” the English online version of the Israeli financial daily “Globes.” The site is www.globes.co.il
Happy shopping.