October 26, 2011, Updated November 4, 2013

If you’re touring Jerusalem, hop on a Segway. It’s greener than a bus and more fun than walking.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_V2St52nGRg

Four years ago, Israeli tour guide Assaf Polivoda first laid eyes on a Segway, the two-wheel, American-made personal transportation powered by a rechargeable battery. That was his “aha” moment. Soon he was offering tours of Jerusalem’s narrow alleyways and streets aboard these self-balancing vehicles.

Segway tour in Jerusalem

Photo by Miriam Alster/Flash90
Tourists take a Segway ride in Jerusalem.

Polivoda started by buying six Segways at about $9,000 apiece, and today owns a fleet of 22. His business provides adventurous tourists and Israelis with several guided routes in Jerusalem, each starting with complete instructions for operating the “green” vehicles.

“In 30 seconds or 40 seconds you start to get the hang of it and then the only thing you need to do is just to lean forward and go,” he says.

Another company offers Segway tours of Tel Aviv.

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