Here are some common Hebrew phrases to sprinkle into your conversations like the cultured, worldly guest you are. Bonus points if you say them with confidence (even if you're guessing). And yes, you'll need more than just “silky smooth” and “disco, disco, good, good" to get by — but you're already off to a great start!
Shalom (שלום) – Hello, goodbye, peace.
Boker tov (בוקר טוב) – Good morning
Erev tov (ערב טוב) – Good evening
Laila tov (לילה טוב) – Good night
Ken / Lo (כן / לא) – Yes / No
Toda / Toda Raba (תודה / תודה רבה) – Thank you / Thank you very much.
Bevakasha (בבקשה) – Please / You’re welcome / Go ahead (super versatile)
Sababa (סבבה) – Cool / Chill / All good
Achla (אחלה) – Awesome / Great
Slicha (סליחה) – Excuse me / Sorry
Yalla (יאללה) – Let’s go / Come on / Hurry up / OK — used constantly, for everything
Eifo ha-sherutim? (איפה השירותים?) – Where’s the bathroom?
Mazal Tov! (מזל טוב) – Congratulations!
L’chaim! (לחיים) – Cheers! (literally “to life!” – best shouted while holding a drink)
Helpful Applications to Download
📍 Waze for not getting hopelessly turned around
🚕 Gett for reliable taxis (Uber’s tied to metered taxis)
💸 Bit or PayBox to send money like a local
Shabbat Mode
Public transportation shuts down completely from Friday afternoon to Saturday night. That includes buses and trains. A lot of stores are also closed during this time.
Cash Is Kinda Dead
You can pay with card everywhere. Even the guy selling coffee out of a van has a card reader. But just in case, bring a little shekel stash.
Café Hafuch = Latte
If you’re craving a latte/cappuccino, ask for a café hafuch — that’s what it’s called here. Literally “upside down,” it’s espresso with steamed milk, local style. Same caffeine fix, just with a funkier name.
Chaser = Shot
I know, everything is backwards here. But if someone offers you a “chaser,” don’t expect a sip of Coke or juice. It’s liquor. Bottoms up!