Bicycles are an invaluable mode of transport, if you have one and can bring it easily, it would be an advantage. Mountain bikes with wide tires are the most suitable type. The local area is very scenic, you may care to bring binoculars, camera and supply of film. Hebrew is the official language in Israel, but one can easily manage in English. The Jewish Sabbath, festivals and fast days commence on the preceding evening and terminate at the evening of the Saturday or last day of the festival.
All Jewish holidays begin at sundown and finish at sundown.
During the holidays The Jacob Blaustein Institute and some or all public services are closed. Most of Israel, including the universities, work a five day week, which in Israel means from Sunday through Thursday. Ask your supervisor for any further information regarding holidays.