(Illustraion)
צילום: shutterstock
Foreign Ministry introduces 'traveler app'
New smartphone application aims to simplify Israelis' access to ministry services while overseas; app garners foreign governments' interest
A new smartphone app developed by the Foreign Ministry aims to help Israelis find their way out of sticky situations that often plague them as they travel overseas.
The app, called "Traveler Information," aims to offer Israelis the benefit of dozens of years of experience that Israel's embassies, consulates and missions worldwide have in dealing with various mishaps.
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The application offers a wide range of useful information – from a list including the addresses and phone numbers of embassies and consulates, as well as the Foreign Ministry Situation Room, through information about local police stations and hospitals, to proper etiquette in various countries.
An especially important feature of the app is its link to the Counter Terrorism Bureau's list of travel advisories.
"This is a lifesaving app," said Assaf Bracha, deputy manager of the ministry's Department for Israelis Abroad and the driving force behind the application's development.
"Any Israeli who downloads it to their smartphone and will find himself in any distress overseas will be able to use it easily, even with no cell reception."
The app also aims to cut though red tape and improve the public's access to the ministry's services.
According to Bracha, over 5,000 people have downloaded the app since it was launched, in early July, and it has garnered the interest of various foreign ministries worldwide, which want to adopt – and adapt – the Israeli model.
