Almost anywhere you need to go in Israel, the bus system can get you there. It may not always be quick or easy, it may take more than one bus, but it is fairly priced and runs like clockwork.
From the Central Bus Station in Tel Aviv, the bus to Jerusalem takes about 45-55 minutes, if I remember correctly. (Traffic cooperating). Seems there is one departing every 20 minutes or so.
Some schedules are more in demand than others....you may have a route that operates from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem from 05:30 to midnight, while the bus to Eilat might only be twice a day. You need to check and see which bus compan-y (-ies) serve your destination. I am familiar with three companies, Kavim, Egged, and Dan.
Currently, the bus fare is running me 6.60 shekels (currently $1.80 ish) each way on Kavim. Their lines are the most direct for my transportation needs at the moment.
You enter the bus with either cash or a bus card. I do not have a card (yet), but I have watched the process. Your card is loaded with a certain value. Every time you enter the bus, you put your card on a reader near the bus driver. It takes about 1.5 seconds until you hear the "beep" that it is accepted. Then you go on to your seat. If your account is getting close to zero, a receipt will print out showing you your balance and that you need to reload the card. I've been told to do it at the Central Bus Station, but I am not sure if that is the only place it can be done.
If you are using cash, the Bus Drivers are great. They never complain about large bills. They ALWAYS have had change (unlike some supermarkets in Israel!!). You will get a receipt and you are supposed to keep it with you during your travel. Occasionally, and I believe it has only happened to me twice, officials will board the bus to make sure that everyone on board is a PAYING customer.
The bus ride. Most bus drivers are very good drivers. But in Israel, ALL driving is a challenge. I applaud these drivers for their safety and courtesy for the most part. It must be a stressful job. Sometimes there are no available seats, and the passengers need to stand and hold onto the straps or poles. Sometimes the driver starts to drive before all of the passengers have paid. This used to scare me, but somehow, it's never caused on accident. Then it's a little tricky walking to find a seat while the bus is moving. But again, this is normal for Israel. You just get used to it.
When you read, see, or hear your stop coming, you just push the button that alerts the driver. Exit thru the doors in the middle of the bus. Best to have gathered your things a minute or two prior so that you can get right off....they waste no time, and if you're not quick, you will miss your stop. I like to gather my things at the stop before mine, and then move closer to the exit doors so I can get out quickly. I know this sounds like common sense, but people visiting Israel for the first time might think they have more time. You don't. :)
So all in all, I have no complaints about the bus system here.
Nesia Tova!
= (Bon Voyage; Good Journey)
Ali
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