Shopping

You'd expect decent shopping when you holiday in a resort that's also a city and you won't be disappointed in Eilat. There are several malls to tempt you, the most popular of which is right on the seafront.

Along with major Israeli chains you'll find international favourites like Body Shop, Mango and Top Shop, La Coste and Adidas while for outdoor browsing there are market stalls selling beachwear and more along the North Beach promenade.

Popular souvenirs include jewellery set with from Eilat Stone, a locally found green-blue gemstone, and beauty products made from Dead Sea minerals.

Shops stay open late so your stroll to or from dinner can be combined with a bit of retail therapy. And with goods free of the 17% VAT charged elsewhere in Israel, you'll need little further incentive.

Shops are usually open Sunday to Thursday from 9am to 21.00 or later.

Major malls include:

• Mall Ha-Yam on the seafront
• Queen of Sheeba adjoining the Hilton hotel near the Marina.
• Red Canyon - Hatmarim Boulevard
• Big - located at the entrance to the city.
• The Boulevard Shopping Arcade in the Isrotel Royal Lagoon.