The numbers of tourists visiting Israel has reached an all-time high. Compared to the first six months of last years, 2017 has recorded a 26% rise in visitors to 1.74 million in total.

The majority are not Jewish. A 76% increase to 57,000 from China. A 30% rise to 160,000 from Russia. And a 20% leap to 400,000 in Americans entering the Holy Land.

The question is why the change. Somewhat ironically, many believe that the answer has to do with terror. The fact that this inhuman horror has struck main centres such as Paris, London and other European hotspots means that Israel is seen in a new light. In other words, visiting Jerusalem is relatively safe, compared to the past and compared to similar international tourist attraction.

Is this a slap in the face for those who suggest that you must boycott Israel? As I noted a couple of months ago, the number of new airlines landing in Israel continues to impress. Easy Jet has just announced a new line from Tel Aviv to Venice and to Napoli. Wizz Air is due to launch regular flights to Britain.

Yes, the skies are gradually opening up. Even “The Independent” newspaper from the UK, which for years has lambasted most things to do with Israel, featured Tel Aviv as an ideal place to spend a long fun weekend.

If there is one dark spot on the horizon, it is Israel’s own national carrier, El Al. I have written extensively about this in the past, as have others. It is just a shame how senior management consistently fails to ensure that service and prices do not remain competitive.

The improving position of Israel as an international tourism centre is being achieved despite the strength of the local currency. And looking ahead? Next year, Israel will be the starting point for Giro dÍtalia, one of the main events on the cycling calendar. Clearly, more and more people are finally coming to learn that the Israel ‘beyond the headlines’ has so much to offer.