A friend of mine is visiting Israel from England. She came to show her support for the country during wartime, and to help out and volunteer wherever she could. She found an Israel different from the country she knew before – where the presence of war is constantly there in the posters and signs calling for the release of the hostages, where bomb shelters are clearly signposted, and more people carry weapons.

She also discovered, however, a population that is determined to take the best from life, and a deepfelt appreciation from all around for her decision to visit Israel at this difficult time.

As more airlines announce that they are returning to Israel, we thought it was a good idea to let you know what to expect.