Tuesday, January 31, 2012

New customs/import law has gone into effect!

Everyone in Israel, the moment you have been waiting for has arrived! Customs tax has been abolished on purchases from abroad up to approx $325. This does not mean you will not have to pay any taxes. You might. For a pretty good summary of what to expect, please check out the synopsis over at NoFryers (they wrote it up so nicely, so I figured you should just see what they say!).

However, they do say that all packages coming in with a value (inc. shipping) up to $75 will be completely tax free - questions remain about a weight restriction - so that is a good thing. They claim you can order 3-8 prs of glasses from Zenni for this price. HA! Although I can get a good deal at Zenni, high prescriptions with certain complications (ahem, yes, me!) are not that cheap. I can, however, actually order the glasses I wanted and get them in tax-free. Before they raised this limit, the shipping cost put me over. I think I see new glasses in my future... if I can get myself to the eye doctor for a check-up...

Have a great day! And remember, even if it's cheaper to buy online and ship it here, it's not a good deal if 1) you don't need whatever it is, and 2) you overspend your budget for it. First try to make do without or find someone giving something away that will meet your needs!

Monday, January 30, 2012

Send Text Messages (SMS) in Israel, for Free!


Bezeq is offering a new Facebook application, to owners of a Bezeq residential line. You can go to their page and install it, and send free SMS messages (text messages) in Israel now through the end of February. As of March 1, they may charge for this service, so watch carefully for updates!
Also, they restrict the use of this service to "reasonable use" - whatever that means.

Only one FB profile can be associated with each Bezeq line (the rules say it must be the owner of record of the line). All the rules and regulations can be read here. Please make your own decision about whether this service is worthwhile to you, I cannot take responsibility for your use of this service.

Enjoy your free texting!