The Wonders of Ancient Israel 10 days / Religious Heritage Tours
About This Experience
Long-ago prophets and modern-day pilgrims have flocked to Israel for millennia. And for an ancient spiritual epicenter, the country still feels surprisingly contemporary and fresh. Here, biblical sites and sacred artifacts mingle effortlessly with an eclectic and energetic local culture. Get a taste of cosmopolitan Tel Aviv’s laissez faire vibe and hip Haifa’s Bauhaus style, before descending into the holy lands that set the foundations for many faiths.
Your Tour Includes
Round-trip airfare & transfers
8 nights in handpicked hotels
Breakfast daily, 5 three-course dinners with beer or wine
Multilingual Tour Director
Private deluxe motor coach
Select entrance fees
Why You'll Love It
Feeling the pulse of Tel Aviv & Jerusalem
Exploring legend & history in biblical towns
Floating effortlessly in the Dead Sea
Visiting a modern kibbutz
Interacting with local Bedouin tribes
The famed Upper Room & Western Wall
Overnight Flight1 night
Tel Aviv1 night - hotel info
Day2
Take the pulse of sophisticated Tel Aviv
Breakfast (in flight), Dinner
Welcome to Tel Aviv, Israel’s cosmopolitan city by the sea. A Go Ahead representative greets you at the airport after you clear customs and then escorts you to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax or begin acquainting yourself with Tel Aviv. At an included dinner this evening, meet your fellow travelers.
Haifa2 nights - hotel info
Day3
Whales and monsters alike play starring roles in old Jaffa’s ancient lore
Breakfast, Dinner
Caesarea, Baha’i Gardens
Begin your day with a brief walking tour through the Old Town of Jaffa, an ancient port city. As the story has it, this was where the prophet Jonah started the journey that left him in the belly of a whale and where Andromeda was tied to a rock as a sacrifice to a sea monster, before later being saved by Perseus. Then your tour director will introduce you to Tel Aviv, the first Hebrew city. Take in the city’s trademark Bauhaus architecture, with stops at Rabin Square, Independence Hall and Rothschild Boulevard, one of Tel Aviv’s most picturesque avenues. Your next stop is the White City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so named for its 4,000 buildings built in the Bauhaus or International style. You’ll also have free time to explore Tel Aviv’s Carmel Market. This afternoon brings you to Haifa, with a stop in Caesarea to see its ancient theater, aqueduct and Hippodrome. Enjoy stellar views of Mount Carmel before reveling in the Hanging Baha’i Gardens; then, gather for an included dinner with your fellow travelers.
Day4
Cross cliffs and mosques on your way to the kingdom of crusaders
Breakfast
Acre, Rosh Hanikra
This morning, journey to Rosh Hanikra, where you’ll ride a cable car to view the white cliffs. This afternoon, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Acre to see the Crusaders’ Hall and Al Jazar Mosque. This evening, indulge in an optional dinner and wine tasting.
Optional Excursions
Vineyard Dinner $85* pp
Travel to the the town of Zichron Yakov for a visit to the Carmel Winery, regarded as one of the finest wineries in Israel. You'll have the chance to explore the facility's antinue oak barrels, as well as its impressive production plant and cellars. During your walking tour, you'll learn about the process of winemaking before sampling several Israeli wines. Afterward, enjoy dinner at an authentic Mediterranean restaurant.
Lake Tiberias1 night - hotel info
Day5
Tales of archangels and multiplying loaves bring these towns to life
Breakfast, Dinner
Capernaum
Travel to Nazareth to see the Church of the Annunciation, a holy Christian site and the location where Mary was visited by the Archangel Gabriel and told that God had selected her to be the mother of Jesus. Next, visit Cana to view the wedding church and tour Zippori, known for its mosaics including the “Mona Lisa of Gallilee.” Next, visit Tabagha and Capernaum, villages where Jesus was said to have made local fishermen into “fishers of men” and where he multiplied the loaves and the fish to feed the multitudes. Enjoy views of Gallilee from the Mount of Beatitudes. Arrive later today at Kibbutz Lavi, where you’ll learn more about Israeli culture. This evening, enjoy dinner at the kibbutz.
Jerusalem4 nights - hotel info
Day6
24 hours a day, 365 days a year, pilgrims gather to wail at the wall
Breakfast, Dinner
Jericho, Beit She’an
Today brings you to the holy city of Jerusalem, by way of the ancient towns of Beit She’an and Jericho. Upon arrival in Jerusalem, visit Mt. Olivet for panoramic views of the Old City. Next, visit the Garden of Gethsemane before arriving at the Western Wall. After this evening’s included dinner, opt for a unique view of Jerusalem by Night.
Optional Excursions
Jerusalem by Night $65* pp
Witness Jerusalem lit up by night and gain a unique view of this historic city. Your tour departs after dinner, making its first stop in Mea Shearim, one of Jerusalem’s oldest neighborhoods. Your motor coach will bring you past illuminated walls and churches before arriving at the ruins of the Tower of David, where you'll enjoy a spectacular sound-and-light show.
Day7
Commemorate the lives of six million lost at the leader in Shoah
Breakfast
Yad Vashem, Israel Museum
Spend the morning at Yad Vashem, the Holocaust Memorial Museum. Containing the world’s largest repository of information on the Holocaust, Yad Vashem is the leader in Shoah (the Hebrew word for the Holocaust) education, commemoration, research and documentation. You’ll also visit the Israel Museum, where you might see the Dead Sea Scrolls. This afternoon consider an excursion to Bethlehem and the Church of the Nativity.
Optional Excursions
Bethlehem & the Church of the Nativity $55* pp
Travel to Bethlehem, a Palestinian city known as the birthplace of Jesus. Inhabited by one of the world’s oldest Christian communities, the town is also believed to be the birthplace of King David and the final resting place of Abrahamic matriarch Rachel. Upon arrival, use your free time to grab something to eat. On your tour through the city, you’ll stop at the Church of the Nativity, where Christians believe Mary gave birth to Jesus. You’ll also explore the Old City and Manger Square. The remainder of your time in Bethlehem is free time for souvenir shopping. Please note: Travelers on this excursion must carry their passport in order to clear the security checkpoint at the Israeli-Palestinian border crossing.
Day8
Go for an effortless float in the sea or greet the Bedouin locals
Breakfast
Discover Jerusalem at your own pace. Or take the day to explore the Fortress of Masada, swim in the Dead Sea and meet the locals at Kfar Hanokdom Bedouin Camp. Included in this excursion are a cable car ride in Masada, lunch and a relaxing visit to the shores of the Dead Sea. At Kfar Hanokdom, you’ll enjoy an unforgettable evening of Bedouin hospitality.
Optional Excursions
Masada, the Dead Sea & Kfar Hanokdom Bedouin Camp $159* pp
Journey by cable car up to the desert fortress of Masada, a fortification high atop a plateau that served as the last stronghold of the First Jewish-Roman War. Though its history remains controversial for many Jews, this memorable site is well worth the trip. You'll then venture to the Dead Sea where you might have time to float in the famously salty waters before enjoying lunch. Later, you’ll visit the village of Kfar Hanokdim for a traditional Bedouin dinner and an evening of music and hospitality.
Day9
Look out from the top of Zion and into the setting for the Last Supper
Breakfast, Dinner
King David’s Tomb, the Upper Room, the Church of the Holy Sepulcher
King David’s Tomb awaits you on Mt. Zion this morning, as does the Upper Room, where Jesus held the Last Supper. The follow the Via Dolorosa to the Church of Holy Sepulcher. Finally, venture into the Muslim and Jewish quarters of Jerusalem. This afternoon is free for you to explore. Perhaps you’ll indulge in the many wonders of the Oriental Bazaar. Relive memories of your journey at tonight’s Farewell Dinner.
Flight homefor a day
Extend Your Stay
Add Jordan $699*
Since July 1994, when Jordan's King Hussein and the Israeli prime minister Yitzhak Rabin signed a declaration ending the animosity between their two countries, Jordan has opened its doors to the west. Encompassing sweeping verdant and arid landscapes and relics of some of the world's oldest civilizations, Jordan is one of the most warm and welcoming countries on earth. Not to be missed are Petra, the River Jordan and the Greco-Roman city of Jerash.
Petra2 nights - hotel info
Day1
Day2
Gallop past temples and tombs carved out of rose-red rock
Breakfast
Petra
Today, on a combination of horse back or horse-drawn carriage and walking, you’ll discover Petra, a city lost to the outside world for centuries. Carved into the red rocks of Mount Hor, Petra has been immortalized in verse as “the rose-red city half as old as time,” and has fascinated visitors since its rediscovery in 1812.
Amman1 night - hotel info
Day3
Day4
Make your way into the desert to spy palaces rising out of the sands
Breakfast
Today visit some of Jordan’s desert castles, a collection of historic castle and temple ruins dotting the landscape. Return to Amman in the afternoon and enjoy a tour of the city. You’ll have free time to relax before boarding your late-night flight home.
About This Experience
Long-ago prophets and modern-day pilgrims have flocked to Israel for millennia. And for an ancient spiritual epicenter, the country still feels surprisingly contemporary and fresh. Here, biblical sites and sacred artifacts mingle effortlessly with an eclectic and energetic local culture. Get a taste of cosmopolitan Tel Aviv’s laissez faire vibe and hip Haifa’s Bauhaus style, before descending into the holy lands that set the foundations for many faiths.
Your Tour Includes
Round-trip airfare & transfers
9 nights in handpicked hotels
Breakfast daily, 5 three-course dinners with beer or wine
Multilingual Tour Director
Private deluxe motor coach
Select entrance fees
Why You'll Love It
Feeling the pulse of Tel Aviv & Jerusalem
Exploring legend & history in biblical towns
Floating effortlessly in the Dead Sea
Visiting a modern kibbutz
Interacting with local Bedouin tribes
The famed Upper Room & Western Wall
Overnight Flight1 night
Tel Aviv1 night - hotel info
Day2
Take the pulse of sophisticated Tel Aviv
Breakfast (in flight), Dinner
Welcome to Tel Aviv, Israel’s cosmopolitan city by the sea. A Go Ahead representative greets you at the airport after you clear customs and then escorts you to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax or begin acquainting yourself with Tel Aviv. At an included dinner this evening, meet your fellow travelers.
Haifa2 nights - hotel info
Day3
Whales and monsters alike play starring roles in old Jaffa’s ancient lore
Breakfast, Dinner
Caesarea, Baha’i Gardens
Begin your day with a brief walking tour through the Old Town of Jaffa, an ancient port city. As the story has it, this was where the prophet Jonah started the journey that left him in the belly of a whale, and where Andromeda was tied to a rock as a sacrifice to a sea monster, before being saved by Perseus. Later, your Tour Director will introduce you to Tel Aviv, the first Hebrew city. Take in the city’s trademark Bauhaus architecture, with stops at Rabin Square, Independence Hall and Rothschild Boulevard, one of Tel Aviv’s most picturesque avenues. Your next stop is the White City, a UNESCO World Heritage site, so named for its 4,000 buildings built in the Bauhaus or International style. You’ll also have free time to explore Tel Aviv’s Carmel Market. This afternoon brings you to Haifa, with a stop in Caesarea to see its ancient theater, aqueduct and Hippodrome. Enjoy stellar views of Mount Carmel before reveling in the Hanging Baha’i Gardens; then, gather for an included dinner with your fellow travelers.
Day4
Cross cliffs and mosques on your way to the kingdom of crusaders
Breakfast
Acre, Rosh Hanikra
This morning, journey to Rosh Hanikra, where you’ll ride a cable car to view the white cliffs. This afternoon, visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Acre to see the Crusaders’ Hall and Al Jazar Mosque. This evening, indulge in an optional dinner and wine tasting.
Optional Excursions
Vineyard Dinner $85* pp
Travel to the the town of Zichron Yakov for a visit to the Carmel Winery, regarded as one of the finest wineries in Israel. You'll have the chance to explore the facility's antinue oak barrels, as well as its impressive production plant and cellars. During your walking tour, you'll learn about the process of winemaking before sampling several Israeli wines. Afterward, enjoy dinner at an authentic Mediterranean restaurant.
Lake Tiberias1 night - hotel info
Day5
Tales of archangels and multiplying loaves bring these towns to life
Breakfast, Dinner
Capernaum
Travel to Nazareth to discover the Church of the Annunciation. This holy Christian site is where the Archangel Gabriel visited Mary to inform her that God had selected her to be the mother of Jesus. Your next stop is Cana, site of the Biblical wedding church. Next, visit the villages of Tabagha and Capernaum, where Jesus performed the miracle of loaves and fishes. These are also the villages where Jesus recruited local fishermen to become “fishers of men.” Take in views of Gallilee from the Mount of Beatitudes, before arriving at Kibbutz Lavi, where you’ll share dinner and learn more about Israeli culture.
Jerusalem4 nights - hotel info
Day6
24 hours a day, 365 days a year, pilgrims gather to wail at the wall
Breakfast, Dinner
Jericho
Today brings you to the holy city of Jerusalem, by way of Jericho. Upon arrival in Jerusalem, visit Mt. Olivet for panoramic views of the Old City. Next, visit the Garden of Gethsemane before arriving at the Western Wall. After this evening’s included dinner, opt for a unique view of Jerusalem by Night.
Optional Excursions
Jerusalem by Night $65* pp
Witness Jerusalem lit up by night and gain a unique view of this historic city. Your tour departs after dinner, making its first stop in Mea Shearim, one of Jerusalem’s oldest neighborhoods. Your motor coach will bring you past illuminated walls and churches before arriving at the ruins of the Tower of David, where you'll enjoy a spectacular sound-and-light show.
Day7
Commemorate the lives of six million lost at the leader in Shoah
Breakfast
Yad Vashem, Israel Museum
Spend the morning at Yad Vashem, the Holocaust Memorial Museum. Containing the world’s largest repository of information on the Holocaust, Yad Vashem is the leader in Shoah (the Hebrew word for the Holocaust) education, commemoration, research and documentation. You’ll also visit the Israel Museum, where you might see the Dead Sea Scrolls. This afternoon, consider an excursion to Bethlehem and the Church of the Nativity.
Optional Excursions
Bethlehem & the Church of the Nativity $55* pp
Travel to Bethlehem, a Palestinian city known as the birthplace of Jesus. Inhabited by one of the world’s oldest Christian communities, the town is also believed to be the birthplace of King David and the final resting place of Abrahamic matriarch Rachel. Upon arrival, use your free time to grab something to eat. On your tour through the city, you’ll stop at the Church of the Nativity, where Christians believe Mary gave birth to Jesus. You’ll also explore the Old City and Manger Square. The remainder of your time in Bethlehem is free time for souvenir shopping. Please note: Travelers on this excursion must carry their passport in order to clear the security checkpoint at the Israeli-Palestinian border crossing.
Day8
Go for an effortless float in the sea or greet the Bedouin locals
Breakfast
Discover Jerusalem at your own pace. Or take the day to explore the Fortress of Masada, swim in the Dead Sea and meet the locals at Kfar Hanokdom Bedouin Camp. Included in this excursion are a cable car ride in Masada, lunch and a relaxing visit to the shores of the Dead Sea. At Kfar Hanokdom, you’ll enjoy an unforgettable evening of Bedouin hospitality.
Optional Excursions
Masada, the Dead Sea & Kfar Hanokdom Bedouin Camp $159* pp
Journey by cable car up to the desert fortress of Masada, a fortification high atop a plateau that served as the last stronghold of the First Jewish-Roman War. Though its history remains controversial for many Jews, this memorable site is well worth the trip. You'll then venture to the Dead Sea where you might have time to float in the famously salty waters before enjoying lunch. Later, you’ll visit the village of Kfar Hanokdim for a traditional Bedouin dinner and an evening of music and hospitality.
Day9
Look out from the top of Zion and into the setting for the Last Supper
Breakfast, Dinner
King David’s Tomb, the Upper Room, the Church of the Holy Sepulcher
King David’s Tomb awaits you on Mt. Zion this morning, as does the Upper Room, where Jesus held the Last Supper. Follow the Via Dolorosa to the Church of Holy Sepulcher. before venturing into the Muslim and Jewish quarters of Jerusalem. This afternoon is free for you to explore, perhaps indulging in the many wonders of the Oriental Bazaar. Relive memories of your journey at tonight’s farewell dinner.
Flight homefor a day
Extend Your Stay
Add Jordan $749*
Since July 1994, when Jordan's King Hussein and the Israeli prime minister Yitzhak Rabin signed a declaration ending the animosity between their two countries, Jordan has opened its doors to the west. Encompassing sweeping verdant and arid landscapes and relics of some of the world's oldest civilizations, Jordan is one of the most warm and welcoming countries on earth. Not to be missed are Petra, the River Jordan and the Greco-Roman city of Jerash.
Petra2 nights - hotel info
Day1
Day2
Gallop past temples and tombs carved out of rose-red rock
Breakfast
Petra
Today, on a combination of horse back or horse-drawn carriage and walking, you’ll discover Petra, a city lost to the outside world for centuries. Carved into the red rocks of Mount Hor, Petra has been immortalized in verse as “the rose-red city half as old as time,” and has fascinated visitors since its rediscovery in 1812.
Amman1 night - hotel info
Day3
Day4
Saunter through the city of mosaics and move through the land of Moses
Breakfast
This morning, explore Madaba, the city of mosaics, and St. George’s Church. Next, head to Mount Nebo, Moses’ burial place. Return to Amman in the afternoon for a guided tour of the city. You’ll have free time to relax before boarding your late-night flight home.
Passport & Visa
In order to enter Israel (as well as Jordan on the tour extension), U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport with an expiration date extending at least six months beyond the date of your return home. An onward or return ticket is also required for entry. A visa is not required for Israel, however a nocharge, three-month visa may be issued upon arrival and may be renewed. It is important to note that if travelers are continuing on the tour extension, a group visa will be provided at the border in Jordan. This entry visa is included in the price of your tour. The Go Ahead Tours itinerary crosses into Jordan via the Jordan Valley Crossing. If you are not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact each country’s consulate for your specific entry requirements.
Health
There are no major health risks when traveling to Israel or Jordan (on extension). Especially during the summer months, take proper care for sun exposure. While no vaccinations are required for entry, it is always advisable to check with your doctor or health-care provider for the latest updates and overseas travel recommendations.
Transportation / Walking on tour
Round-trip flights arrive in and depart from Tel Aviv. All other included transportation on “The Wonders of Ancient Israel” is by private motor coach. In your free time, you may wish to explore the main cities by public transportation.
Israel has an extensive—and remarkably inexpensive—transport system of bus, tram, train and metro lines. Purchase all-inclusive passes for the best deal and try to avoid peak periods of travel, when walking is probably your best bet. Taxis are also very inexpensive in Israel.
Clothing & Packing Tips
Light, loose-fitting clothing that provides comfort when exploring the sights is essential for your tour. A sun hat, sunglasses and a sturdy pair of walking shoes are recommended for sightseeing. It’s always a good idea to be ready for any eventuality—a lightweight sports jacket and emergency rainwear are advised. If you plan to visit an especially elegant restaurant or attend the opera or theater, you will probably feel more comfortable in something more formal. Also, remember that it is preferable not to visit synagogues, mosques, churches or other religious sites with bare legs and shoulders (and entrance may be denied on this basis).
Currency
The Israeli new sheqel (and the Jordanian dinar, on extension to Jordan) is the currency you will be using on your tour. Better rates of exchange are usually available in Israel, although it is worth ordering some currency from your local bank to use when you first arrive. We advise that you take credit cards and dollar bills in small denominations. We suggest informing your bank and credit card company of your travel plans, so they don’t confuse your international purchases for fraudulent charges. Exchange small amounts of Israeli new sheqel at one time in order to compensate for inflation. It can be difficult to exchange traveler’s checks in Israel.
Tipping
At the conclusion of your tour, it is customary to offer your Tour Director and driver a gratuity. We recommend tipping in your tour country’s currency, the equivalency of $3USD/CAD per person per day for your driver and $6USD/CAD to $9USD/CAD per person per day for your Tour Director. If applicable, we also recommend the equivalency of $2USD/CAD per local guide. Tips can only be paid in cash. Please keep current local currency exchange rates in mind when tipping.
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Sun, Sand, and Sea
Israel was not a destination I had ever really considered visiting until recently when a friend told me what an amazing time he had had over there. This tour was absolutely wonderful and the country was just as amazing as he said it would be! The history of the sites visited, the fabulous weather (13 days without a cloud in the sky!), and the incredibly nice people made this a location worth visiting! There was a great mix of sites more recently made historic (World War II sites and the Holocaust museum), with Ancient sites like the Roman Ruins, and fun things to do like floating in the Dead Sea and shopping in the bazaars! The tour does focus on the religiously historic sites in many cities but it is what you can expect from a country called by many the 'Holy Land'. The food is Mediterranean style and wonderful, with the best hummus I have ever tasted! Be prepared for a lot of sun and heat though! Brimmed hats and sunscreen are a must, as well as scarves and shawls to cover shoulders and knees for most religious sites. Israel is a land steeped in history and tradition which has still managed to modernize over time. For anyone who thinks they want to try going somewhere a little more exotic but not too far off the beaten path, Israel is your perfect fit!
Israel-Jordan Tour
This was an amazing trip! The tour agenda, sites, locations, hotels, etc. were great. Tour guides were knowledgeable, friendly and flexible. Israel/Palestine were amazing and Jordan was fascinating. From religious sites, historic sites, and natural wonders, this is a trip everyone should go. I only wished we had more local dinners, rather than in hotels, as I wanted more culture and camaraderie with local residents; but all-in-all, an awesome vacation!
Wonders of Ancient Israel is Wonderful
Thoroughly satisfied with this wonderful tour. Yes, it's rigorous and fast paced. But that's to be expected on a tour that packs in as much as this one does. Our guide was friendly, knowledgable and accommodating. Our itinerary had to be adjusted due to unexpected scheduling glitches and we ended up with several "extra" activities not originally on our tour. Our driver was considerate and fun. Our group was a lovely blend of diverse personalities, all of whom nicely enhanced the whole travel experience. I came away from this trip with an expanded understanding of and appreciation for the Holy Lands. My experience with Go Ahead has been nothing but professional and I look forward to my next tour with them.
Everything I had hoped for
The tour to Israel was everything I had hoped for, but so much more. I am sure I will be remembering the sights, sounds and aromatic smells of this beautiful country forever. Because of President Obama's visit to Israel during the same time we were there, our tour guide rearranged some of the scheduled events so we wouldn't get held up with security checkpoints and street closings because of the Presidential motocades. We were still able to visit all of the scheduled places plus additional unscheduled places. It was a trip of a lifetime!!
trip of a lifetime
This tour was not planned at a bucket list tour, but because several people from this area were going, I signed up many months ago to pay in increments. But from the moment we hit the ground running in Tel Aviv, seeing the Mediterranean Sea and realizing the history in this area, I felt like I needed to pinch myself all day every day! The sights were amazing, the ancient ruins, even market places to buy fruits, vegetables and candies from this area, it was unbelievable! It defies description. To realize that I have read these Bible stories where Jesus preached, Zaccheus climbed a tree to hear him, Sermon on the Mount, Sea of Galilee. The kibbutz was fabulous, the Dead Sea had us all laughing! We enjoyed a wine tasting, a Druze meal, Seeing Jerusalem from Mount of Olives...awesome sight! Walked the steps of Jesus during His sufferings. We did three days in Jordan, several days before Obamo, thank goodness. climbed every step we could and savored the sights! Mt. Nebo where Moses is buried. This is a trip that I could take over and over again. I never will forget this! I am Christian and we met several in our group who were of Jewish faith and we all enjoyed the customs we learned about. We witnessed... as a plus, a Jewish wedding in Jerusalem steps away from the balcony and we observed a Muslim wedding in Jordan at the hotel. which are all fabulous, I can't say enough about this trip!
An Historic Trip
I took this trip because I wanted to see historic Israel, both from a Jewish, Christian and Muslim perspective. The emphasis on this was mainly Christian. However, I saw many of the historic sites in Christian history and a few Arab and Jewish sites. I would have preferred a more balanced view. The hotels were excellent on the whole as was the transportation and guide. However, the jewish perspective was given mainly by one of the tour participants, my friend, Cantor Mark Stanton (I, too, am a Cantor). The food on the road was mediocre at best, stopping mainly at Arab restaurants that were OK, if pricey (especially for lunch). There are other fine restaurants and shops in the Jewish sections that we never stopped at. We could have. I wish we could have had more free time to shop, explore and bond. We could have stopped at more upscale places and it would have been appreciated by all. The group on the whole was very nice and interested in many different things.
The Wonders of Ancient Israel
A great vacation,
Beyond my Expectations
GoAhead helped us extend our trip for 3 days once we learned our trip home was thru Paris. Even though the airline reservations were made, they happily helped make changes. The trip was very coordinated. Our tour guide Marina was the absolute best. Her knowledge of the middle east was just what I was hoping for in my travels. Marina took care of us in every way.
WONDERS OF ANCIENT ISRAEL
Fabulous trip with just a tad of drawbacks--especially for the committed Christian. Superb archeological viewing, particularly Acre, Caesarea, and Masada. Wonderful to see the actual topography and realize the hardships ancient travelers had to endure. It puts the Bible in a new perspective. Our guide, Marina, was beyond wonderful: gracious, accommodating, humorous, delightful, educated. We visited many of the places I had always wanted to see, including Jerusalem, (the Western Wall, various churches), Jericho, Bethlehem, the Dead Sea, the Sea of Galilee, and more. I wish, though, that we had had experienced sites typically important to Christians: a Jordan River baptism, sitting on the grass at the place of the Sermon on the Mount, etc. Hotels were outstanding as were meals, except where we all had to eat the same lunch offerings. More free time--there was almost none--would have been great. Finally, we had a diverse group of Christians (Protestants and Catholics) and Jews, and it was wonderful. We had two cantors with us who provided insight into this and that.
Better then I dreamed
Our guide took us every step in Israel. She took super care of us. I felt cared for and protected. Her amount of knowledge was impressive. We all talked about her depth of information. It is interesting how strangers in a group will soon become friends and watch out for one another. Our group actually hated to say goodby.
