Israel Travel Blog

After a surreal year, with all of us dealing with the effects of a global pandemic, our urge to travel has never been stronger for many. Summer is here and looking for a place to travel that’s beautiful, safe, family-friendly and offers cultural and historical landmarks too is top of everyone’s list. Israel, a very popular tourist destination for quite a few years now, fits all the above criteria so why do some people still feel a certain reluctance in visiting this country?Acre beachfront.Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinSome of it, of course, comes from fear of the political situation in the region and, for sure, one can’t deny that Israel is located in the Middle East. However, Israel is also a highly developed country, with outstanding infrastructure, healthcare, and tourist facilities, and nearly everyone here speaks good (if not fluent) English. Not to mention the thousands of citizens who also manage well in Russian, French, and Spanish. Throw in the wonderful Mediterranean sea, fantastic Israeli beaches, fabulous food, and friendly locals, and what’s not to like?Personal Safety vs. Fear of ConflictThe fact is that, for tourists, Israel is an incredibly safe country to visit. You can easily walk the streets of Tel Aviv or Jerusalem at 2 am with complete confidence (in Tel Aviv, there’ll be a fair few cafes still open) and incidents of petty theft and harm to the person are rare. So where does the fear of visiting Israel come from? To an extent, the international media, which from time to time creates an image of the country that is quite incongruous with the situation on the ground. There’s also groups such as BDS (‘Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions’) and other organizations that seek to portray Israel as an apartheid state, with oppression and violence at every turn.The reality, however, is quite different, as many tourists see within days, if not hours, of flying in. As we have said before, Israel is extremely modern, not just by Middle East standards, but by world standards. It uses cutting-edge technology in everyday life, has English and French signs in every major tourist hotspot, and its locals, as a rule, are extremely friendly and hospitable (Israelis love to find out what people think of their country). It’s not uncommon for taxi drivers and barmen to ask if you have someone to eat Friday night dinner, or try and introduce your daughter to their eligible son! Welcome to the Levant…!Nevertheless, putting aside all the above, let’s look at the two major reasons behind the fears some people have when considering traveling to Israel for the first time. Rather than downplaying them, let’s explore the facts on the ground and see if the perception matches reality. If you haven’t guessed, the two major fears people currently have concern COVID-19 and the political situation with the Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza.Old Jaffa seafront, Israel.Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin1. COVID-19It is completely understandable to be fearful of Covid-19; after all, this is a virus that has brought the world to its knees and many countries are still suffering terribly. However, Israel is not one of them. On the contrary - Israel is the world leader when it comes to vaccinations - as early as January 2021, it had opened inoculation centers all over the country and was vaccinating thousands of people a day. Now, with summer here, Israel is the envy of the world - it is the first country to have achieved herd immunity, masks are no longer mandatory, either in public or private, cafes, restaurants, and museums are once busier and Tel Aviv's beaches are full. Israel is most definitely a ‘green’ country and can’t wait to welcome you. Even better, because of its low infection rates, you will not generally be subject to quarantine in your home country, when you return from your holiday. Obviously, this is a fluid situation but, as of late June, the timeline for Israel’s reopening to tourists looks like this: at the current moment (i.e. mid-June) most hotels in Israel have reopened and a small number of tourists (who have first-degree relatives in the country) are permitted to enter. From July 1st, 2021, individual tourists will be able to enter Israel, subject to certain provisions. This includes visitors who are fully vaccinated - you will need to show a negative PCR test, a vaccination certificate, and undertake a PCR test on arrival at Ben Gurion airport.Israel will open initially to tourists from countries where governments have signed reciprocal agreements. The list is constantly being updated but is expected to include the USA, UK, and all EU countries. Other states will soon be applying for reciprocity. At the same time, day trips across the country will resume. If for any reason, a member of the group needs medical attention, the hospitals in Israel are some of the best in the world, so you need not fear. To check the latest COVID-19 restrictions in Israel read this article.Caesarea Aqueduct Beach.Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin2. The Arab-Israeli ConflictNo one would deny that the political situation in this region is rather complicated and, unfortunately, will probably not be solved any time soon. However, as with many ‘troubled’ regions of the world, that does not mean that it is unsafe to visit as a tourist - rather it means simply using your common sense and exercising a little more caution than you normally would.At this point, most foreign embassies advise that their citizens do not travel to the West Bank. However, as tensions flare up and then abate, the situation can change and in more ‘peaceful’ moments tour companies like ours do offer guided trips to the West Bank to some interesting and important sites there (Bethlehem and Jericho tours). Once in Israel, check with your guide who can give you the lie of the land and advise you as to your safety. The political situation is explained in greater detail in this link. Why It’s Secure to Travel in IsraelNow for the good news - it is safe to travel in Israel. The upshot of having to spend over seventy years dealing with terror means that there is a lot of security in public places. Let’s start with Ben Gurion Airport - it’s easily the most well-guarded airport in the world, with (strict protocols in place that most tourists don’t even notice) to ensure your safety.The same goes for bus and train stations, shopping malls, museums, and top tourist sites in Israel such as the Old City of Jerusalem - you may sometimes be asked to open your bag - so a guard can inspect its contents - before going inside, but this is the extent of the inconvenience you will suffer. In daily life, you’ll be surprised at just how ‘normal’ things are - Israelis love their free time and enjoy nothing more than a swim at the beach or a cup of coffee with friends in their local cafe.Sunset in Tel Aviv, Old Port area.Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinSomething else you will notice is young soldiers - of both sexes! That’s because Israel has compulsory national service which begins at the age of 18. Men have to serve three years and women two and their jobs are varied - from combat units and cyber security to clerks in offices, platoon cooks, and paramedics.On Sunday mornings, the buses can be really full - that’s because soldiers who’ve had weekend leave will be returning to their bases. Most of them speak excellent English and if you do end up sitting next to one in a cafe or on public transport, don’t be surprised if you end up chatting to them.Take Responsibility for Your Own SafetyFor the most part, as we’ve said, Israel is extremely safe but we can’t emphasize enough that you should take responsibility for your own safety - by using basic common sense and occasionally exercising a little causation in what you think could end up becoming a tense situation. As with anywhere in the world, you travel, there’s no guarantee that nothing bad will ever happen but there are always steps you can take to minimize danger and unnecessary risks.Here are a few dos and don'ts we recommend following in Israel, to make things as easy as possible for you:Montefiore Windmill in Mishkenot Sha’ananim neighborhood, Jerusalem. Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinList of Dos:1. Listen to your tour guide - they’re knowledgeable and experienced and, as locals, will have their finger on the pulse at all times. It’s also their job to keep you informed, so don’t feel embarrassed to ask as many questions as you want!2. Stay up to date with the news - situations unfold rapidly in this part of the world and if you’re ‘in the know’ that can be very helpful. There are also Israeli radio and TV stations that broadcast in English (i24 and YNet), as well as favorites like CNN and the BBC.3. Distance yourself from provocative or violent demonstrations, should you run into them. Don’t stop for a photo-op to show to friends back home - you might find yourself in the thick of a crowd you then can’t extricate yourself from.List of Don’ts:1. Never try to cross a border where it is not allowed. There will usually be signs to warn you and guards in the area but, if in doubt, err on the side of caution. Whilst it might seem fun to break the rules for a Facebook or Instagram post, you could really end up in a lot of trouble with the Jordanian or Palestinian authorities. Remember you are a guest in another country and aim to be responsible for your own safety.2. Don’t travel to the West Bank alone. If things are quiet, you can take a day tour to Bethlehem and Jericho with a tour company that has years of experience and local connections, which always helps. There are day tours and excursions operating both to Bethlehem and Jericho and they ensure you’ll have a seamless transition from Israel to the area controlled by the Palestinian Authority.Bethlehem rooftop view.Photo credit: © ShutterstockIf you travel alone, not only will you have to deal with checkpoints (where, as an individual, you may have to queue for a long time) but, if worse comes to worst, and trouble breaks out, you may find yourself unable to return to Israel, especially if it's over a religious holiday (when the border between Israel and the West Bank sometimes shut for security reasons). 3. Choose a trusty Israeli tour operator.This is imperative. Do plenty of research, find out how long they’ve been in business, and read their reviews. Check their credentials and reviews on TripAdvisor and don’t be afraid to call them and ask questions before you book - a good tour operator won’t have anything to hide.Beaches, Mountains, Deserts and History - Israel Has It AllTo sum up, then, we can say in no uncertain terms that first-time visitors who join tours in Israel might have a few nerves beforehand but in no time (and we’re talking hours, not days) come to realize that Israel isn’t just a safe destination but an amazing one too. With beaches, mountains, deserts, religious sites, places of archaeological and historical significance, and endless family-friendly attractions, there’s not much to complain about. Add to that the growing ‘food’ culture, the easy beat of Tel Aviv, the gravitas of holy Jerusalem, diving in Eilat, skiing in the Golan Heights, kayaking down the Jordan River, or drinking wine in some very fine Galilee vineyards, trust us when we tell you you’re going to have a holiday you’ll never forget. So now you know, what are you waiting for? Get planning your vacation in Israel and packing because it is open for business - and ready to greet you with open arms.Camel riding at the sign indicating sea level near the Dead Sea, Israel.Photo credit: © Shutterstock

Home to three of the great world faiths - Christianity, Judaism and Islam - Jerusalem is arguably one of the holiest cities on the planet. No surprise then that millions of visitors flock to it, to worship inJerusalem churches, synagogues and mosques, explore its endless historical sites, learn more about its conquests and ancestors or just to soak in the atmosphere of this extraordinary place. To do justice to Jerusalem, you’d need many days if not weeks, to wander the city but if you’re short of time, and want to see as much as you can, then - providing you rise early (to avoid the long queues) and put on some sturdy footwear - you can pack in a lot in a couple of days. Catholic Cemetery, Mount Zion, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © Sofia EmeliyanovaGetting Around JerusalemIn terms of getting around, the new and modern light railway is a joy to use and, of course, within the Old City, you’re confined to walking anyway. Consider taking part in the best-reviewed Jerusalem tours if you need some fellow travelers. On a practical level, we’d advise dressing modestly (long trousers for men and skirts or dresses below the knee/tops with sleeves for women) to show respect for many of the holy places. Finally, if possible, try and plan your trip between Monday-Thursday, since Friday-Sunday are days of rest for Muslims, Jews, and Christians respectively. Here, then, is our guide to Jerusalem in 48 hours...good luck and enjoy!Day 1. The Old City and Temple MountThe Old City has an atmosphere and energy that’s hard to describe - full of winding alleyways, exotic smells, places of worship on every corner, and 16th-century Ottoman walls, the city has immense religious and cultural symbolism. Its actual size is not large - it measures less than a square kilometer - but boasting thousands of years of history, and drought over tooth and nail by invaders, it really does pack a holy punch! The Old City itself is divided into four quarters - Christian, Jewish, Muslim, and Armenian - with many buildings laying underneath the streets themselves. The present street plan dates back more or less to Byzantine times and is bisected by an east-west road (thus the four quarters). Bethesda Pools, Jerusalem. Photo credit: © ShutterstockChristian Sites in the Old City of JerusalemArriving through the Jaffa Gate, every visitor, whatever their faith, should walk the Via Dolorosa, which leads to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Treading the path Jesus walked, on his journey to the cross, is an extraordinary experience - stop at the different stations (marked on the ancient stone walls) and if you want to really soak up the atmosphere, go on Fridays at 3 pm, when the Franciscan Custodians of Holy Places lead a procession. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is the holiest site for Christians in the entire world - this is where Christ was crucified, buried, and resurrected and the atmosphere inside is extraordinary. (Fun fact: the walls of the church are inscribed with thousands of crosses, inscribed by Crusaders who traveled across Europe hundreds of years ago and slept in the church).The Convent of the Sisters of Zion (a Catholic nunnery), the Garden Tomb (around the City Walls), the Coptic Orthodox Patriarchate, and St. Anne’s Church are also popular Christian sites within the Old City. For history buffs, consider taking a Jerusalem Half Day Tour and, at its conclusions, continuing on to explore alone.Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Photo credit: © ShutterstockJewish Sites in the Old City of JerusalemWithout a doubt, a visit to the Western Wall (or “‘Kotel’ in Hebrew) is an experience no tourist ever forgets. Jews from across the globe come to pray here since it is their most holy site (the last retaining wall of the Second Temple built by Herod in Roman times). It is open to all, free and both Jews and non-Jews are permitted to walk close to the wall, pray there and place notes in the crevices of its walls.As well as the Kotel, there is much to see in the Jewish quarter. Walk along the Cardo - the remains of a street that existed back in Roman-Byzantine times, where merchants sold their wares - and look out for the Madaba Map (an astonishing mosaic that depicts ancient Jerusalem). A hidden gem often overlooked is the Hurva Synagogue. Built in 1700, burnt down in 1720 then re-inaugurated in 1864, this was one of the most impressive synagogues that stood in the Old City before 1948. Badly damaged by shelling in the War of Independence, it was subsequently demolished but in 2010 underwent major renovations to restore its beautiful exterior. Today it is possible to take a guided tour around it - look out for the tallest Ark of the Covenant in the world! David Playing the Harp before Saul, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © ShutterstockFor archaeology lovers, the Burnt House is a must-visit. After the Six-Day War in 1967, Israeli archaeologists began digging in the Jewish Quarter of the Old City and found something quite astonishing - a house six meters below street level, concealed by a layer of ash. This ‘Burnt House’ dates back to the time of the Second Temple and is believed to have been the home of upper-class Jews. They were the Katros family and we know this because archaeologists found a stone weight, inscribed with their name on it.Not exactly in the Old City but not far away it is the City of David – and this can easily be joined on a City of David and Underground Jerusalem Tour.Muslim Sites in the Old City of JerusalemA visit to the Temple Mount and the Dome of the Rock will be of particular interest to any Muslim since, after Mecca and Medina, the Dome of the Rock is Islam’s third most holy site. Constructed in 691-692 CE, it is instantly recognizable shimmering gold roof and blue-tiled exterior houses a sanctuary in which lies the Foundation Stone - where Mohammed (according to legend) ascended to heaven. Since non-Muslims are not allowed to enter the Dome of the Rock itself, we would recommend joining a tour of the area.The Western Wall, Jerusalem. Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinThe entire Muslim quarter is a fascinating place to explore, with tiny stores selling spices, sweet delights, vegetables, and household goods. The bazaar-like atmosphere is very Levantine - don’t be afraid to bargain either, as it’s expected! The area around the Damascus Gate is particularly lively, and a good place to grab a Turkish coffee (strong and black, with a hint of cardamom), a piece of baklava, and watch the world go by. If you have the energy, walk outside the City Walls and up to the Mount of Olives, to see a spectacular sunset.After a power nap, spend the evening at one of Jerusalem’s excellent restaurants or bars in the New City, visit the Light and Sound Show at the Tower of David, or simply stroll through the fancy Mamilla Mall. Jerusalem is also home to the Cinematheque on Hebron Road, which hosts many documentary film festivals and boasts a lovely cafe, with light bites and fabulous views. Day 2. The New CityJerusalem is home to a number of excellent museums, two of which you could easily spend the entire day at. We would highly recommend both of them, the first being Yad Vashem - the national monument to the Holocaust - and the second the Israel Museum, which houses a spectacular collection of art, Judaica, sculptures, and the astonishing Dead Sea Scrolls. At a pinch, you could visit one in the morning and another in the afternoon... although that might be a little overwhelming.Shrine of the Book, Israel Museum, Jerusalem. Photo credit: © ShutterstockYad Vashem - The World Holocaust Remembrance CenterA visit to Yad Vashem is an extraordinary experience, leaving many moved to tears and all walking away with an indelible memory of their trip. Presenting the experience of the Holocaust (‘Shoah’ in Hebrew) from a uniquely Jewish experience, it takes the visitor on a remarkable journey, emphasizing the experiences of individuals through personal possessions, testimonies, and surviving artifacts. The museum actually contains over 27,000 items that were donated by survivors over the years, including chess sets and the distinctive yellow stars that Jews were forced to pin to their clothes.Visitors walk through a large museum, at first being confronted by the Nazi rise to power, then exploring the ghettos in which Jews were forced to live and finally coming face to face with the grim reality of life in concentration camps, for the few deported who were not immediately murdered. The space visitors walk through is 180 meters long and formed like a spike with its top edge (a skylight) protruding. Deliberately designed with varying heights and differing degrees of light permeating the rooms, the idea is for it to symbolize the complexity of the Jews’ predicament as well as the idea of rebirth after destruction. The Museum also holds a Hall of Names (remembering the six million murdered) and a space to honor Righteous Gentiles, who risked their lives to save Jews.A visit to Yad Vashem is by no means a ‘fun’ way to spend a few hours. It is difficult and sometimes overwhelming to make this journey, but incredibly worthwhile and something that is recommended for every visitor to Israel, as a way to understand the collective trauma of the Holocaust that still reverberates throughout Israeli society today.Yad Vashem Holocaust Museum, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © ShutterstockThe Israel MuseumRegarded as one of the world’s leading museums, the Israel Museum offers visitors a slice of fine art, archaeology, ceramics, Jewish culture, a variety of exhibitions. as well as a beautiful Sculpture Garden, guided tours, workshops, a miniature model of the Second Temple and the opportunity of a lifetime - walking through the ‘Shrine of the Book’ building which houses the Dead Sea Scrolls.Visitors can enjoy art by European and Israeli artists alike, wander through the independent photography department, ponder over drawings and works in the design and architecture section, and take an unparalleled journey into the history and archaeology of the land of Israel.The Shrine of the Book, housing the scrolls discovered at Qumran (in the Dead Sea region) in 1947 is a highlight for all visitors. The white dome symbolizes the lids of the jars in which the scrolls were discovered and the corridor inside representing the cave itself. The building itself is astonishingly beautiful and considered a triumph by many modern architects. Fun for the Kids in JerusalemIf you’re not traveling alone, and need family-friend activities to amuse the kids fear not - there’s the Jerusalem Time Elevator, the Bloomfield Science Museum, the Biblical Zoo, or Aquarium, which youngsters will love. Located in the southwest of the city, the Zoo has all kinds of activities for children including workshops, night tours, and a petting zoo. From elephants and tigers to Ibex and Black Howler Monkeys, it’s got plenty to amuse you for several hours! The Aquarium, next door, is also an ideal place to visit on sweltering summer and rainy winter days since it’s all enclosed.Traveling around Jerusalem with kids.Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinBiblical Archaeology in JerusalemFor anyone interested in biblical archaeology, Jerusalem is a paradise. To get the most out of your time in the city, however, we would recommend joining a tour such as In the Footsteps of Jesus - which includes a visit to the Pools of Bethesda, Church of St. Anne, and the Pater Noster, and a chance to see both the Garden of Gethsemane and the Mount. of Olives.An Evening at “The Shuk”After another quick rest, head off for an evening at the lively Mahane Yehuda market, directly off Jaffa Street in the heart of the city. In the last ten years, this has become the hottest spot in town for eating and drinking at night, with all kinds of food (Persian meets tapas meets Italian meets fish and chips), craft beers, and live music. If you’re lucky enough to be there on Thursdays, you’re in for a treat - it’s packed out but completely atmospheric and provides every visitor to Jerusalem with a snapshot of its inhabitants - old and young, religious and secular, foodie-lover or flaneur! After a fun evening out, go home and sleep. You deserve it, after your action-packed 2-day itinerary in Jerusalem.Mahane Yehuda Market. Photo credit: © Dan Porges

Tel Aviv and Jerusalem are Israel’s two largest cities, as well as being huge tourist centres, meaning that the majority of visitors want to see both. Luckily, the two cities aren’t far apart - in fact, by European or North American standards, travelling between them is easy and cheap. Making a day trip takes minimal effort (indeed, some Israelis commute between the two cities five days a week) and whether you want to plan ahead or just wake up and decide to head off, it’s your choice. Here, we look at some of the different ways you can make the 54 km (33 mile) journey.A statue of King David playing harp, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © Shutterstock1.How to Travel Between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem byBusThe Tel Aviv to Jerusalem bus service is highly recommended since it’s inexpensive and efficient, with buses leaving every 15 minutes from early morning to late at night. The Egged company runs this very popular service and if there is no traffic your journey should take between 45-55 minutes. If you want to know if it’s safe to travel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, then the answer is a resounding yes. Bus drivers are trained to high standards and, moreover, if any kind of problem arises, someone will inevitably offer you assistance - Israelis are very hospitable people and love to help! There are two central bus stations in Tel Aviv that operate this service:- The Central Bus Station (Tachana Merkazit) located on Levinsky Street in the south of Tel Aviv, close to HaHagana train station. This operates bus line 405- The Terminal 2000 station, on Namir Road/Arlozorov Street, in the north of Tel Aviv, which operates line 480.Either you can pay the driver when you board the bus (cash is fine) or use a Rav Kav card. These cards can be purchased at many points in the city and loaded up with credit which can be used on buses within the city as well as longer journeys around the country. You can also buy a ticket beforehand from a machine (most machines have an ‘English’ option) or a staff member at one of the counters. The cost of a one-way ticket is 19 NIS and there is a discount if you buy a return-trip ticket.All buses arrive at the Central Bus Station in Jerusalem, which is very close to the main highway and the Bridge of Chords. From here, it is very easy to navigate your way around Jerusalem - either by bus, the light railway (which runs all the way down to the Old City), or a taxi. The Jerusalem bus station also has an array of shops selling clothes, electronic goods, and food/beverages, so if you're desperate for a coffee or you’ve forgotten your phone charger, never fear.As with all cities in Israel, there is no public bus service on Shabbat i.e. from Friday afternoon until Saturday evening, after dark.Old City market, Jerusalem. Photo credit: © Shutterstock2.How to Travel Between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem by TrainAfter decades of talks that came to nothing and plans that regularly collapsed, the high-speed rail link connecting Israel’s two largest cities opened in 2019. The Tel Aviv to Jerusalem train is, without a doubt, a fantastic way to travel between the cities - it’s a direct service, using a spacious two-level train and it takes between 36 and 43 minutes, depending on which of the three Tel Aviv stations you depart from. These stations are:- Savidor Center - like the Terminal 200 bus station (see above), Savidor is on the corner of Namir Road and Arlozorov Street.- Shalom train station - close to the famous Azrieli Towers, this station is located on the HaShalom Interchange on the Ayalon Highway - HaHagana railway station- the most southern of the three stations is also located on the Ayalon Highway, north of Highway 1 and 200 meters easy of the Tel Aviv Central Bus Station.A one-way ride costs 23.50 NIS and for much of the day, the train runs every 15-20 minutes. As with the Egged buses (see above) you can use your Rav Kav card or buy tickets from cashiers or machines in the station. You will arrive at the state-of-the-art, Yitzhak Navon station in Jerusalem, complete with modern design, vaulted ceilings, and beautiful wall mosaics. It’s also one of the world’s deepest stations (80 meters deep) and conveniently located on Jaffa Street, with access to city buses, taxis, and the famed light railway, which will transport you to downtown Jerusalem and the Old City in just a few minutes. Jerusalem light railway, Israel. Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin3. Taxi - Shared or PrivateIn all of the major cities in Israel, you will see small yellow vans standing at their main bus stations. These are called ‘sheruts’ and basically, they are ‘shared taxis.’ They take 10 passengers and are not owned by the government, which means that they run on Shabbat (unlike Egged buses and trains, which stop between Friday afternoon and Saturday evening). All you need to do is climb in and pay the driver in cash (22 NIS). Once the seats are all filled, off you go! (Bear in mind that you might have to wait a few minutes for the sheruts to fill up). Sheruts leave from the Tel Aviv Central Bus Station on the ground floor, just outside the main entrance, and can drop you either close to the Jerusalem bus station or downtown, close to Tzion Square and a short walk from the Old City.For more comfort (and if you’re willing to pay a premium) then it’s possible to take a private taxi from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. Either ask your concierge to arrange this service for you or download the Gett Taxi app (as yet, there is no Uber in Israel). Expect to pay around 350 NIS door to door (and more at night or on Shabbat). Buses on Mount of Olives, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © Shutterstock4. Private TransferA Tel Aviv to Jerusalem private transferis a comfortable and convenient way to travel and is easily organized through a trusted tour operator. You will be driven in a vehicle that is comfortable and air-conditioned and, of course, if you wish to make a detour along the way (to visit the village of Abu Gosh, for example, or grab a cup of coffee at the ‘Elvis Diner’ then that’s your prerogative). You should expect to pay around 700 NIS for this service.5. Organized Trips to JerusalemIf you’re based in Tel Aviv, but want to visit Jerusalem and see as much as you can in a set period of time, it’s really worthwhile considering one of the many Jerusalem tours on offer. Taking a guided trip in Israel really takes the hassle out of everything - you’ll have a driver, a guide and - whether it’s one, two, or three days - the chances are you’ll get to see quite a bit more than if you’re traveling under your own steam. There are all kinds of Israel day tours and Jerusalem tour packages available - whether you want to explore the Old City, visit ancient churches, wander the world-class Israel Museum or take a stroll in the vibrant, bustling Mahane Yehuda market, there’s something that will suit you. Jerusalem is a city that offers a taste of everything - culture, history, architecture, food, and scenery. It’s probably one of the most extraordinary cities you’ll ever visit so soak it up.The Wailing Wall, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin6. Rent a CarRenting a car in Israel is not difficult - there are plenty of companies around and prices are reasonable. GalCal, Hertz, Shlomo Sixt, and Hagar are some of the most reputable names, and booking via their websites (all in English) is easy. All you need is your international driver’s license, your passport, and a credit card. Allow about half an hour to sort out the paperwork and then you’ll be good to go.There are two major routes that you can take - either Road 1 or Road 443, via Modiin. Traffic is notoriously bad on these roads early in the morning and later, after the workday ends, so try and plan your journey in quieter hours, otherwise, your journey could double in time. Also, bear in mind that parking is limited and expensive in Jerusalem itself, so if you’re visiting just the Old City itself (rather than combining your city trip with a tour of Masada and the Dead Sea for example), you’ll be better off using public transport or taking an organized Jerusalem tourfrom Tel Aviv.Montefiore Windmill, Jerusalem. Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin

Did you know that there’s nowhere else in the world offering such a dense concentration of UNESCO World Heritage Sites than the small country of Israel? Israel may be tiny (it’s about the size of the state of New Jersey) but it’s a treasure trove of astonishing and unique locations. Both in its cities and the countryside, natural and manmade wonders dot the landscape, from north to south, showcasing over 3,000 years of religious, historical, and cultural diversity.Cable car to Masada Fortress.Photo credit: © ShutterstockWhat are World Heritage Sites?The ‘World Heritage’ status assigned to these locations designated for places on earth that are considered to be of outstanding universal humanity. As a result, they have been placed on a Heritage list, with the aim of them being protected for future generations to enjoy and appreciate. And what makes the concept of ‘World Heritage’ truly exceptional is that it is applied universally.World Heritage sites belong to and can be visited by people from every corner of the globe, regardless of the territory they call home. From the moment a place is declared a World Heritage Site, the country and the organization that owns it are obligated to protect it and its surroundings from any development that does not adhere to the character and spirit of the site. Once a site is on this list, not only will it benefit from such prestige, but it’s likely that more of an awareness of and pride in the site will develop, from the people who live in its locality. And of course, there’s the knock-on effect of increased tourism....peoples’ curiosity is piqued and they’re ready to find out for themselves what all the fuss is about.Today, we’re looking at some of these extraordinary places in Israel, and not just those currently on the list but others on a tentative list i.e. places that Israel wants to nominate for future inclusion. Judge for yourself - and then start planning your trip!Ein Kerem, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © Shutterstock1. The Bahai Gardens, HaifaThese beautifully styled and manicured gardens, sloping down in 19 separate terraces for almost one kilometer, and are one of Israel’s most famous and most-visited sites. The Bahai - a relatively modern religion - was founded by a Persian who named himself ‘ Bab’ and Haifa is considered to be one of his adherents' most holy sites. Divided into three parts, the bottom sits next to the German Colony, the middle houses the ‘Shrine of the Bab’ (with its distinctive gold top) and the upper sits next to the Louis Promenade. Against the backdrop ofMount Carmel, the array of fountains, ponds, masses of flowers, and sculptures are a sheer delight. A visit to the Bahai Gardens is a must when in Israel, a highlight of a private tour of Caesarea, Haifa, and Acre. Bahai Gardens, Haifa.Photo credit: © Shutterstock2. The Biblical Tels of Megiddo, Hazor, Beer ShevaOf around 200 tels (prehistoric settlement mounds) in Israel, these three are the most important, all containing substantial remains of cities with biblical connections and the first two afford astonishing views of the Jezreel Valley. At the end of the trail, descend into the underground water system, built around 8 BCE, and marvel at its engineering, which gave residents access to freshwater without having to leave the city walls. Why not visit them as part of a customized private tour of Megiddo and Nazareth?3. The Caves of Maresha and Beit GuvrinDating back over 2,000 years, and comprising over 250 underground chambers, Beit Guvrin once was a First Temple-era settlement and today you can still see the remains of a Roman amphitheater. Its quarried limestone rock caves were once used as cisterns, baths, places of worship, and even oil presses. Combining Maresha and the nearby Soreq Stalactite Cave on a private tour is a fine way to spend a few hours.Beit Guvrin National Park. Photo credit: © Shutterstock4. The Incense RouteThe ancient Incense Route once ran from Yemen, Oman, and Arabia through to Jordan and Palestine, with traders carrying spices and perfumes to barter and sell. The 100 km stretch passing through Israel includes desert cities in the Negev - Mamshit, Haluza, Shivta, Avdat...all four boast archaeological remains including a bathhouse, burial caves, and water systems.5. MasadaThe ancient Roman fortress of Masada, built by Herod the Great, and nestled in the Judean Desert, is a truly magnificent structure, which can be ascended either on foot or by cable car. Untouched for more than 13 centuries, it's hard not to stand open-mouthed, as you look out over the Dead Sea and take in the magnificence of the views and the fortification in which you stand. For the best experience, it's recommended to join one of the organizedMasada tours.Masada fortress, Israel.Photo credit: © Shutterstock6. Necropolis of Bet ShearimThis impressive archaeological site, located in the foothills of the Lower Galilee contains an astonishing necropolis - a largely designed cemetery with elaborate tomb monuments. Carved out of soft limestone and boasts more than 30 burial caves, many of the caves were pillaged by robbers in the 8th century. Although only a part of it has been excavated, the necropolis has been compared to a stone-inscribed book - its sarcophagi, mausoleums, and catacombs have elaborate symbols and figures carved into them, as well as inscriptions in Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek. The Necropolis is easily visited as part of a customized private tour to Mount Tabor, Tsipori, and Beit Shearim.7.AcreThe Underground Crusader City of Acre was built during the 12th century and destroyed in 1291 when the Mamluks conquered it and built their own city on the ruins. After painstaking excavation and restoration, visitors can now visit this ancient site and see the massive Crusader halls, passages, the Templars' tunnel, and chambers.The Templars' Tunnel, Acre. Photo credit: © Shutterstock8.Sites of Human Evolution at Mount Carmel: Nahal Me’arot / Wadi el-Mughara CavesLocated on the western slopes of Mount Carmel, this site includes the caves of Tabun, Jamal, el-Wad, and Sikhul, representing about 500,000 years of human evolution. The Natufian burial sites and early stone architecture show the transition from a hunter-gatherer to an agricultural lifestyle. Not surprisingly, the caves today are a key site for historians and archaeologists, because they yield so much information about the prehistory of the Levant.9. White City of Tel Aviv – the Modern MovementBased on urban planning by Patrick Geddes, the White City was constructed throughout the 1930s and reflects modern, organic planning concepts. The buildings were all designed by European architects who had learned their craft before immigrating. The result? A thriving urban center. The White City has been well preserved in all kinds of city design (profiles of streets, proportions of open and closed spaces, green areas). In many of the beautiful Bauhaus buildings, which can best be seen on a Tel Aviv Bauhaus tour, details of staircases, railings, front doors and curved balconies are much the same as they were 90 years ago. Museum of the History of Tel Aviv-Yafo (Beit Ha'ir), The White City of Tel Aviv.Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinNow Let’s Take a Look at the 18 Sites on the Tentative ListTriple-Arch Gate at Dan & sources of the Jordan - this ancient structure dating back from the Canaanite period of the Bronze Age was built around 1750, out of the mud. Composed of three arches, it once stood 7 meters tall and today features two towers. The arches are the oldest ever found in Israel.Early synagogues in the Galilee - these include Meron, Gush Halav, Navorin, Bar-Am, and Beit Alpha and Korazim, and Capernaum by the Sea of Galilee. These were the first buildings representing monotheistic space, where people worshipped without idols. You can visit Beit Alpha with a Megiddo and the Jezreel Valley Private Tour.The Galilee Journeys of Jesus & the Apostles - this route begins in thecity of Nazareth, winding through Tsipori, Kfar Kana, and Magdala, around the Sea of Galilee and ending at Tiberias. The route is like a thread connecting the pilgrim sites in Galilee most sacred to Christianity (easily covered withGalilee Tours), combined with cultural and natural sites, beautiful scenery, and local communities.The Sea of Galilee and its ancient sites - many of these are mentioned above and can be visited with group tours such as Nazareth and Sea of Galilee tour and Sea of Galilee Tour.The Church at Mount of Beatitudes, near the Sea of Galilee, Israel.Photo credit: © ShutterstockHorvat Minnim (Khirbat al-Minya) - an Umayyad-built palace in eastern Galilee, on the northern end of the Sea of Galilee.It is home to one of the earliest mosques in Palestine.Arbel - Mount Arbel in the Lower Galilee, on the way to Tiberias, features 4 villages - Arbel, Neve, Shueb, and Horns of Hittin - all with stunning views of Mount Hermon in the Golan Heights.Degania - arguably the “mother of all kibbutzes” this Jewish settlement was established in 1910, making it the earliest socialist Zionist farming community in the land of Israel.Beit Shean - the ruins of this ancient city are now protected within the grounds of a National Park and date back to the Late Neolithic period. It is mentioned in the Bible in connection with the battle of the Israelites against the Philistines on Mount Gilboa: the bodies of King Saul and three of his sons were hung on the walls of Beit Shean.Caesarea – contains magnificent remains including a large Roman amphitheater and a historic port. With its impressive ruins and beautiful Mediterranean backdrop, this ancient Herodian city is easily visited on any number of Caesarea tours.Caesarea National Park from above.Photo credit: © ShutterstockMount Zion in Jerusalem - located just outside of the Old City, this Jerusalem hill has been called Mount Zion since the Middle Ages, even though Jewish scripture refers to the Temple Mount by the same name. Holy to Jews, Muslims, and Christians, it is home to a number of important sites and landmarks including King David’s Tomb, the Chamber of the Holocaust, the Room of the Last Supper, and the Protestant Cemetery. Visit Mount Zion with one of the Jerusalem tours.The White Mosque in Ramle - located in the heart of ancient Ramle, the White Mosque was first built in 8 CE, when the town first proposed. The ruins today date from the end of the 12th century, when it was renovated upon the orders of Saladin. The tower is 30 meters high and between it and the mosque ruins are three subterranean water reservoirs.Makhteshim Country - the Negev desert, in Israel’s south, is a colorful and rocky terrain and is dominated by a number of ridges and deep, breathtaking valleys. Makhtesh, in Hebrew, means crater and the valleys have common features: they are surrounded by steep limestone walls. The Ramon crater is the most impressive of them, at 38 km long and 450 meters deep.Dome of the Rock and Mount Zion at sunrise, Jerusalem, Israel.Photo credit: © ShutterstockMount Karkom - located in the southern Negev desert at the northern edge of Nahal Paran, this is one of the world's best examples of rock engravings.Timna - situated in the Arava desert, close to Eilat on the Red Sea, Timna is rich in copper ore and historians believe that there have been mines in existence there since 5 or 6 BCE. Set in around 15,000 acres, with steep cliffs and red-pink mountains surrounding it, Timna is a spectacular natural attraction.The Crusader Fortresses - Montfort, Belvoir and Atlit, and Arsuf are four remarkable fortresses built between the 12th and 15th centuries and their attention to detail and size are astonishing. Each fortress represents a different Crusader Order - Teutonic, Hospitaliers, and Templars. As the decades passed, the balance of power shifted constantly between Crusading Fortresses and regional Muslim armies - today they offer a fascinating glimpse into this ancient world.Apollonia (Arsuf) Crusader Fortress.Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinThe Great Rift Valley - the Hula Valley is a small part of the Great Rift Valley and a bird lover’s paradise. The main migrating season is in the fall, when pelicans, herons, storks, and cranes arrive in huge flocks, along with birds of prey and other winged species.Liftah (Mye Naftoah) - this abandoned Palestinian village contains numerous original dwellings, a spring, agricultural terraces, and partly preserved landscapes. It includes unexcavated archaeological remains of earlier periods.Ein Kerem - this charming village on the edge of Jerusalem, with lush greenery, contains remains from the Iron Age. Christians believe that Ein Kerem is the birthplace of Saint John the Baptist. Other holy sites in Jerusalem are, as yet, unlisted since ownership is contested and therefore there is no settled status. However, the West Bank does have some inscribed World Heritage sites of its own including Bethlehem (the birthplace of Jesus) and the archaeological site Tel es-Sultan, both of which can be visited on a group tour of Bethlehem and Jerichoor with private tours.The Church of St. Catherine, Bethlehem.Photo credit: © Shutterstock

A great many of Israel’s visitors want to see as much of the country as they can on their trip, and two of the spots they prioritize are Tel Aviv and Eilat. Tel Aviv, the beating heart of the country’s centre, is close to Ben Gurion airport and an ideal place to spend a first night after arrival and even a few more days afterwards, enjoying cafe life, cultural pursuits and some fine dining. Eilat, nestled on the Red Sea, is a popular destination too, especially in the winter when temperatures are warm and swimming and sunbathing are a top pastime. With its breathtaking views (look one way you can see Jordan, look the other there is Egypt, and look behind you for pinkish, orange-red hued mountains) it’s perfect for chilling out, snorkelling and a little hiking in the nearby Timna Park. If you’re feeling adventurous you can also join aPetra tour from Eilat.Eilat beach.Photo credit: © ShutterstockFrom Tel Aviv to Eilat - Four Ways to Do ItThe distance from Tel Aviv to Eilat is 281 kilometers. There are 4 ways to travel from Tel Aviv to Israel's southernmost resort: bus to Eilat, rental car, plane, and private transfer. Below, we’re going to give you some helpful pointers to make sure everything goes as smoothly and easily as possible along the way. Luckily, Israel is a small country, so no journey ever takes that long (even when on desert roads!) but having the ‘lie of the land before you set off is always a good idea.Unfortunately, Israel does not yet have a direct train running between the two cities. The proposed high-speed rail link has been talked about for years but, unfortunately, the project is currently at a standstill. To date, the furthest you can travel by train is to Beer Sheva and Dimona (a tiny town a little way on). There is a small stretch of railway that passes beyond Dimona, running out to some phosphate mines in the Tzin Valley, but the train that heads there is for cargo only and functions on an 'as and when' basis.Red Sea, Eilat, Israel. Photo by Vitaliy Paykov on UnsplashInsider TipsOf course, you could take the train as far as Beer Sheva and then catch a bus onto Eilat, but this would mean making a change and, if you have a lot of luggage or small children, it could be inconvenient and tiresome. Still, it’s possible - and let’s give you some insider tips. Firstly, reserve a seat on the Beer Sheva - Eilat bus three days in advance. Try and book one in the middle (not over the wheels) - number 18 is ideal! Look for a seat on the shady side (no. 17 if you’re traveling in the morning and no. 19 if in the afternoon).Book a train to Beer Sheva and make sure you leave plenty of time for your connection. After arriving (the journey is approx. 1 hour 10 minutes), exit the train station and turn left. You will see the bus station right in front of you. If you need to use the bathrooms, it’s better to do so in the train station - they tend to be cleaner than the ones in the bus station!Grab a snack or a light bite in the bus station, which has all kinds of eateries, plus coffee shops. We recommend the shawarma and also the bourekas (pastry filled with salty cheese or potatoes). Pick up some water too - the driver will probably stop for a coffee break at Yotvata Inn, but that won’t be for another two hours or so, and if you’re traveling in the summer, it’s essential not to let yourself become hydrated. Egged intercity buses in Israel. Image: via Egged Facebook pageA tip: when you arrive at Yotvata, you’ll have time to stretch your legs but also to pop inside and treat yourself to one of their famous Italian-style ice creams, which come in a marvelous range of flavors (we recommend the mascarpone and figs). There’s also a fantastic date-flavored frozen yogurt and mango sorbet for those who prefer to avoid dairy. Yotvata also has a gift store where they sell boxes of juicyMedjool dates, all grown on their own kibbutz. Now onto the direct options.Getting from Tel Aviv to Eilat by BusThe bus is a pretty good option and, as buses go, it’s a comfortable journey with varied and beautiful landscapes. At around 70 NIS one-way, it’s also rather cheap (public transport is heavily subsidized in Israel). The national bus service is called Egged and their green and white logo is easily recognized. We’d recommend booking a seat in advance, just to guarantee that you won’t be turned away, but if you want to take a chance, just show up with cash (or a loaded Rav Kav card) and if there’s a spare seat, the driver will welcome you aboard. Tickets can be ordered online via Egged’s website (in Hebrew) or by phone at 03 694-8888 or *2800 (many of the operators speak English as well) using a credit card. Vintage Egged bus from the Egged Bus Museum in Holon.Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinEgged ScheduleSunday-Thursday: This is the Israeli work week and buses leave regularly, with line 394. This is located at Platform 601, on level 6 of the Central Bus Station on Levinsky Street. Buses leave regularly i.e. every 90 minutes, with the first one departing at 06.30. On Friday, the last bus usually leaves around 14.00. This is because the Jewish Shabbat begins when dusk falls on Friday and public transport in Israel generally stops running a couple of hours before. On Saturdays (i.e. the Jewish Shabbat) buses depart a little before the end of the day (i.e. before night falls) - sometimes as early as 14.00 from Tel Aviv. Always check the timetable carefully and, if possible, call up in advance to confirm your departure, as all times are subject to change, depending on adverse weather conditions (e.g. flash floods in the Negev).Self-Service Tickets with EilatomatAnother thing to bear in mind is that if you decide to book tickets in advance (through the website or the Customer Service Center) you will need to collect them from a self-service ticket machine named Eilatomat. These machines can be found in the central bus stations of Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Rishon le Zion, Haifa Hof ha-Carmel, Haifa Central, Hadera, Rehovot, Beer Sheva, and Netanya. A ticket can be collected from an Eilatomat ticket machine up to 2 hours before boarding and then shown to the driver when you enter through the front door. We recommend arriving 20 minutes in advance, as the lines can be long! Antique Egged buses from the Egged Bus Museum in Holon. Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinGetting from Tel Aviv to Eilat with a Rental CarIt’s relatively simple and not particularly expensive to rent a car in Israel if you want to drive. Both Ben Gurion airport and Tel Aviv have a number of car rental businesses, including Eldan, Hertz, Tamar, and Shlomo Sixt. Just bring your passport and driver’s license and you should be issued with a vehicle within 30-45 minutes. The journey from the country’s center to the far south will take between four to five hours (depending on your speed and if you stop for a coffee break in Mitzpe Ramon, where you can admire the views of the crater and even pop in on the Artist’s Quarter or if you’re with young kids, the Alpaca Farm). From Mitzpe to Eilat, the road is winding and narrow (and it’s where accidents often happen) so please take particular care, especially at night, when there will be long stretches of road with no light. If you are easily car sick, we would advise taking this journey in the day, when it’s easier to stop and take a breath! The scenery is also beautiful - the desert landscapes are arid and rugged, and as you drive through the Arava, the rocks will turn pink, orange, and red in color.Sunset inEilat area. Photo credit:© Oksana MatsGetting from Tel Aviv to Eilatby PlaneThis is a fast option and an excellent idea if you need to travel straight to Eilat, after arrival in Israel at Ben Gurion Airport. The internal flight will take just under an hour and Arkia, Israel’s domestic carrier operates a service every couple of hours. After a long, international flight, taking trains, buses, or renting a car could quickly turn into an ordeal, particularly if you’re very jetlagged. Flights cost around $100, so save yourself time and energy - with Arkia, you’ll be in Ramon airport in no time. From there, it’s a 15-minute journey to Eilat, either by taxi or local bus. Of course, if you want to see desert scenery, you can always catch the bus back to Tel Aviv, on your return leg, or rent a car.Musical fountain in Eilat.Photo credit: © Oksana MatsGetting from Tel Aviv to Eilat with a Private TransferIf you are based in Tel Aviv, the quickest and most convenient way of all would be to book a private transfer to Eilat. This ‘door-to-door’ service means you’ll be picked up and dropped off exactly where you choose - and you can also break the journey if you choose (a pit stop at Beer Sheva, Mitzpe Ramon, or the famous dairy store at Yotvata Kibbutz - see above). Make sure to choose a trusted tour operator, who will answer all your questions in advance and tailor the experience to your specific needs.Now you’re ready. Don’t forget your COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a snazzy bathing suit. Everything else is optional! Trust us, you’re going to have a fine time. Shalom and enjoy!Getting to Eilat by camel is not an option anymore.Photo credit:Muhammad Abo Omar

Situated 1,400 feet below sea level, which makes it the lowest point on earth you can travel to whilst remaining out in the open, the Dead Sea (or the ‘Salt Sea’) as it's often known is a truly magical destination. Set a short drive from Jerusalem, in the Judean desert and surrounded by breathtaking scenery, this is not just a place of enormous tranquility but one that ‘feels’ different. That’s because it actually is - the saline in the sea means that visitors are actually breathing in healthy mineral-rich air.Breathe in the Mineral-Rich AirTruly, spending time at the Dead Sea lets you experience a whole new atmosphere. With a unique body of water in which you can float, to your heart’s content, proven healing qualities that reside in the air, and the attractions of the ancient fortress of Masada and lush oasis of Ein Gedi on your doorstep, it’s no wonder this is perhaps Israel’s top tourist attraction. It’s also a mecca for those with skin complaints (eczema, psoriasis) looking for a relaxation tour and it's often commented that the sulfur baths work magic on anyone feeling run-down.Luxurious, Elegant, and Designed for PamperingSo where to stay? Well, the area has all kinds of accommodation but in this article, we’ll be focusing on the higher end of the market - five of the top hotels (each with their own spa) that offer you comfort, style, and sophistication, with all the amenities you’d expect, and a few extra touches too. The Dead Sea’s perfect for a spa break, a romantic getaway, or just a couple of days away from the daily grind. All of these hotels are located in the Ein Bokekpart of the Dead Sea, and all very close to the shore. Attractions such as Masada and Ein Gedi are close by, for anyone who wants to join one of numerous Dead Sea tours. And because the Dead Sea is just 45 minutes drive from Jerusalem and 2 hours from Tel Aviv, you don’t have to think twice before heading down there.Ein Gedi Nature Reserve.Photo credit: © ShutterstockHere are some of our recommendations, for a break that will exceed your expectations, in terms of accommodation, cuisine, spa facilities, and breathtaking scenery.1.Milos Hotel Dead Sea - Ein BokekThis luxury hotel, owned by the Herbert Samuel group, offers five-star private beachfront accommodation all the while drawing on the colors and textures of Greece. All rooms have rainfall showers and Nespresso machines and the deluxe offering comes with your own private pool.Milos has a pool with a gazebo (perfect for afternoon cocktails), a gym, a gaming room for younger guests, and a spa that offers a Turkish hammam, dry sauna, dead seawater pool, and sulfur bath.The main restaurant is built in stone in the style of a Greek taverna, the stone having been shipped in from Saloniki. It boasts an excellent chef who, according to reviews, visits each table at dinner. Guests have rated Milos highly on Tripadvisor, and commented on the professional, courteous staff. Guests on Booking.com have rated it at 9.2 for a couples getaway. Milos also offers occasional special offers which are published each afternoon, at 2 pm, for same-day check-in, so for a last-minute break, you can’t do better.Details: Milos Hotel, Ein Bokek, tel: 08 668 8100Milos Hotel Dead Sea, Ein Bokek. Photo: Herbert Samuel Hotels2.Herods Dead Sea – The Premium Collection by FattalHerods is an award-winning hotel that offers guests a rejuvenating and luxurious experience at the shores of the Dead Sea. With its own private beach, luxury rooms and suites, royal spa facilities, and innovative cuisine, it is the perfect place for anyone looking to be pampered. Herods ‘Vitalis’ spa is considered to be the jewel in the crown of this hotel, boasting a variety of heated and health-centered pools (seawater, sweet water, and sulfur), a Turkish bathhouse, solarium, and an array of mud pack, facial and cosmetic treatments. Extra touches include magic shows, free bicycle hire, a ‘fun area’ for kids, and a ‘Welcome Baby’ service. The hotel offers two restaurants, the ‘Rothschild’ bar (with excellent homemade desserts) and a Health Bar which serves natural and fresh shakes. Rooms are tastefully designed and the Executive range comes with a sunbathing balcony and free international calls. Reviews on Booking.com rate Herods as ‘Exceptional’ and ‘Superb’ and comment that breakfast and dinner went beyond expectations. Details: Hamei Zohar, Neve Zohar Tel: 03 511-0000Herods Dead Sea Hotel. Photo: Herods Hotels3.Daniel Dead Sea HotelSet in the heart of the Dead Sea’s Ein Bokek area, The Daniel hotel boasts 320 luxury rooms, 12 of which are lavishly decorated suites. Wifi is free throughout and all rooms come with LCD TVs and black-out curtains. Some offer sea views whilst others overlook the Edom Mountains. As you would expect from a luxury hotel, The Daniel has its own private beach and indoor and outdoor pools, as well as a fitness center with a gym and workout rooms. There are children’s activities available and entertainment in the lobby most evenings. Guests arriving by car have access to free parking.The Daniel offers a range of spa treatments, including massages, a steam room, and wellness treatments, There is a tennis court available for those who wish to practice their strokes! Guests reviewing the hotel on Booking.com are particularly happy with the buffet breakfast, which they say has an excellent variety of items. For special prices at the Daniel, take a look at the Trivago website which offers excellent prices.Details: Ein Bokek, Dead Sea Tel: 08 668-9999Daniel Dead Sea Hotel. Photo via ichotels.co.il4. Leonardo Club Hotel Dead Sea - All InclusiveThe Leonardo Club hotel is located on a private beach in Ein Bokek and offers guests a wonderful location with breathtaking views of both the Dead Sea and the surrounding mountains. It boasts 368 beautiful designed rooms, set in two wings, with the deluxe option offering guests a balcony with sea views. There is miniature golf on site, a games room and also free bicycle rental. The Leonardo is the only hotel in the Dead Sea which boasts its own water park, with three amazing slides, ideal for family fun. The fact that it is all inclusive means delicious cuisine and drinks (soft and certain alcoholic) are available 24/7. Guests on Tripadvisor rate the food as tasty and plentiful, with one commenting “GREAT food; hats off to the cook.” Le Spa at the Leonardo offers guests facilities including a heated seawater pool, a sulfur pool, and a modern sauna, as well as a wide variety of high-quality health and rejuvenation treatments.Detials: Ein Bokek, Hamei Zohar 08 668-9444Leonardo Club Hotel Dead Sea. Photo vialeonardo-hotels.com5.Isrotel Dead Sea Resort & SpaNestled at the foot of the mountains that surround it and just moments from the shore of the Dead Sea, the Isrotel offers its guests an experience of complete tranquility where, as they put it, ‘pampering and relaxation always come first.” Given a rating of five stars by the Ministry of Tourism, each newly-renovated room (which is bigger than your average hotel room) has a balcony and is stylishly designed.Isrotel’s spa, ‘Esprit’ offers a wide range of rejuvenation treatments including massages, mud packs, and seaweed masks. Also on offer are a sulfur pool, massage rooms, sauna, steam bath, and a private sun deck. The hotel’s ‘Ranch’ restaurant is an American-style affair, with a wide range of meats on offer - a carnivorous paradise. Guests can also ‘chill out’ at the poolside, where kids light bites are served, as well as shakes and cocktails. Reviews on Booking.com describe the hotel as ‘Superb’ and ‘Excellent’ and comment on how efficient the booking and check-in process is. One noted that on a particularly hot day, staff was handing out free ice cream and cold drinks to guests.Details: Ein Bokek, Dead Sea Tel: 08 688-966Isrotel Dead Sea Resort & Spa. Image: Isrotel hotelsPractical Travel InformationThere are several ways to reach the Dead Sea: rental car, bus, taxi, and private transfer.Rental car: Renting a car in Israel is pretty simple and not incredibly expensive. Try Hertz, Eldan, or Avis, who are all located at Ben Gurion Airport, as well as in the major cities. Don’t forget to bring your driver’s permit!Bus: Buses run regularly to the Dead Sea from all parts of the country - Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and the south (Eilat, indirectly. There is no direct route from Eilat to the Dead Sea - you will have to change buses in Beer Sheva)From Jerusalem: The number 486 travels from the Jerusalem Central Bus Station (platform 5) direct to the Dead Sea.From Tel Aviv: the 421 travels from the Central Bus Station direct to the Dead Sea. It is advisable, and more often than not, necessary to book a ticket for these buses in advance. This can be done by calling Egged on *2800 or 03-694 8888. It is also possible to book tickets directly through their website. Please note: there is no public transport in Israel over Shabbat which means that from Friday afternoon to Saturday night, it is not possible to travel by Egged.Taxi: A taxi from Jerusalem to the Dead Sea should take about 45 minutes and cost in the region of 350-400 NIS. A taxi from Tel Aviv will take between 90 minutes to 2 hours and cost around 700 NIS.Private transfer: A private transfer from the airport or your hotel to the Dead Sea is another option, and is quick and convenient. Your Israeli tour operator will be glad to advise you in this regard. Get packing!Rejuvenating Dead Sea mud. Photo credit: © Shutterstock

We all know that planning a wedding takes effort which is understandable since for many people it’s the most important day of their life. But what about what comes afterwards? How do you want to begin your married life and what factors do you take into consideration when it comes to planning the first trip you’ll take together? Choosing a destination that ticks the right boxes is incredibly important because this isn’t just a holiday, it’s your honeymoon!Just married. Photo by Derek Thomson on UnsplashWhere Modernity and History Come TogetherWe might be a bit biased, but we think Israel is the place of honeymoon dreams. It’s a modern, developed country with every amenity you could wish for, combined with oodles of history and culture. It’s small enough to travel around easily but incredibly diverse in terms of landscapes and climates. There’s extraordinary nature, astonishing archaeological sites, history at your fingertips and miles and miles of pristine white sandy beaches and aquamarine Mediterranean waters to enjoy.Yes, whether you’re a sun worshipper, a culture buff, an avid nature lover or a city slicker, Israel has it all. With four climate zones, you can ski in the Golan Heights in the morning and dive in the Red Sea at night...or hike in a crater at sunrise and be overlooking a Crusader castle by sunset. With its blue flag beaches, hip hotels, fabulous cuisine and breathtaking scenery, Israel is one of the best honeymoon destinations, and here are a few of the ideas we have in mind, to help convince you...View of Safed against the backdrop of the Sea of Galilee.Photo credit: © Shutterstock1. All Coupled UpThere’s nothing more appealing for many Israelis than the prospect of heading off to a ‘zimmer’ for a romantic weekend in one of the country‘s most beautiful areas - the Galilee - and for honeymooners, we think this is a perfect idea. The word Zimmer comes from the German ‘room’ but this unique accommodation goes way beyond that. Zimmers are self-contained units that often take the form of cabins and are rustic yet luxurious, with hot tubs, stylish furnishings and extravagant breakfasts. Pastoral and private, there’s no better place to begin your married life than in these rural retreats, with no one but you and your beloved - oh, and the birds, of course!A house in Safed,the highest city in Galilee and in Israel.Photo credit: © Shutterstock2. Urban LivingFor city lovers who yearn for an ‘urban’ holiday, then Tel Aviv fits the bill nicely. With its hip boutique hotels, stylish fine dining scene combined with the romantic backstreets ofJaffa and the smart boutiques of the Neve Tzedek neighbourhood, it’s a great choice for a honeymoon in Israel.The city has all kinds of stylish hotels, many with rooftops that offer stunning views of the skyline and bars where you can enjoy a coffee by day and an aperitif before dinner. By day, stroll the Rothschild Boulevardand tiny streets,soak up the atmosphere; by night, lounge at a cocktail bar, before eating al fresco at some modern Mediterranean spot then dance until the wee hours at one of the city’s hottest clubs.Neve Tzedek.Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin3. Sunrises and SunsetsHolding hands and watching the sunrise over Masada, in the magnificent Judean desert has got to rank as a seriously romantic activity. On any Israel tour, a trip to the ancient fortress of Masada is a must, but climbing it early in the morning really is a wonderful idea. Sitting atop the ruins, as the sun hits your face, before taking a cable car back to the bottom and heading off to the Dead Sea for a float in the world’s lowest body of water adds a touch of fun to the activity too. Slather yourself in mud, or even take a spa treatment at one of the hotels on the promenade. You can also combine all three, by taking an organised Masada Sunrise and Dead Sea Tour,which includes time at Ein Gedi - hiking, animal spotting and a refreshing dip in David’s Waterfall. Similarly, why not enjoy a sunset in the beautiful north of the country, in the Golans (nature, history and a foodie’s delight), or on a boat trip around the Sea of Galilee? Or atop an abandoned fortification at Mount Bental, on a private tour of the Golan Heights? This part of the country is renowned for its spectacular landscapes and beautiful wildlife (eagles, deer and jackals). You can climb the Nimrod Fortress (the largest Crusader-era castle in Israel) or take a detour to the Hamat Gaderhot springs. The area is a paradise for foodies too, with its locally sourced cheeses and olive oils as well as several chocolatiers providing sweet treats for locals and visitors! Wine lovers are advised to visit one of the boutique wineries and indulge in some tastings. All of these private tours are custom-made too, so it’s entirely up to you where you travel...Sunset in Tel Aviv.Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin4. Out of the Comfort ZoneIf you’re in Israel to relax but want a few activities thrown in, save for the classical day tours or private excursions, why not step out of your comfort zone and try something you’ve never tried before? Head south to the Negev desert, to stargaze and look for meteors at the amazing Mitzpe Ramon crater, before experiencing some local hospitality in the form of a night in a Bedouin tent. Or take a hike around Timna national park before heading to Eilat for some diving or snorkelling in the Red Sea.There’s also plenty of hiking in the Negev desert, and a trip to the spectacular Ein Avdat canyon, near Kibbutz Sde Boker (home to Israel’s first Prime Minister, David Ben Gurion and his burial place) is well worth it. If you’re looking for more ideas, take a look at our Israel tour packages page, to inspire you.Traditional Bedouin flatbread getting baked on a tabun in the Negev desert.Photo credit: © Oksana Mats5. A Little Bit of LuxuryEveryone loves pampering and what better time for it than on an Israel honeymoon? The country has some incredibly luxurious hotels, and we’d recommend indulging in at least one or two nights in them! Jerusalem boasts the Waldorf Astoria, the pinnacle of style with its eclectic and elegant architecture and furnishings. Try their afternoon tea - it’s to die for. Or head to King David, with its stunning views over the Old City and palatial limestone walls. In Tel Aviv, we’d recommend the Norman - luxurious bedrooms, fine dining and the famous ‘Library Bar’ - perfect for an evening aperitif. We’d also be remiss if we didn’t mention ‘the Jaffa’ too - a modern luxury set in 19th-century grandeur. With its minimalist style, sumptuous bedrooms, lavish bathrooms and all kinds of luxury amenities, this is - by and standards - a ‘lifestyle’ hotel, and perfect for newlyweds.Rosh Hanikra Grottoes, Israel.Photo credit: © Shutterstock6. Roots SchmootsIf you are Jewish, it might be a dream of yours to hold your wedding in Israel but if that’s not possible, then come here afterwards - as part of the Honeymoon Israel.This unique project offers young couples, just married or in the early years of their union, a nine-day subsidized honeymoon in Israel program. The idea is to give them an immersive travel experience and - whatever their personal backgrounds - make them feel at home both in the country and in the Jewish community.The trip around the country involves outings to the top tourist spots in the country as well as unusual experiences i.e. eating dinner with locals that you wouldn't get on a classical Israel tour package. There will also be time to explore alone, with your partner and, of course, at the end of the nine days you are free to stay on longer if you want to see more of the country.Banias National Reserve.Photo credit: © Shutterstock7. Adrenaline RushIf you’re a couple that craves excitement, then an Israeli honeymoon won’t disappoint. With miles and miles of coastline and rivers too, there are all kinds of water sports - sailing, surfing, kayaking on the Jordan river and jeep safari tours through rugged desert terrain. Explore the tunnels on a tour of the City of David and Underground Jerusalem, or head off to Acre, another Crusader City, with its stone walls and winding streets.For the truly adventurous, explore some of the country’s caves - Sorek (the Stalactite Cave) in the Judean Mountains has wooden walkways which make it easy to explore. Malcham, close to the Dead Sea, has huge spaces and vertical shafts over 400 feet deep! Or what about the Maresha Caves in Beit Guvrin National Park, in which you can find cisterns, olive presses and burial caves of the Phoenicians.Beit Guvrin National Park. Photo credit: © Shutterstock8. Small PleasuresTake pleasure in the small things! If you’re in Tel Aviv, eat ice cream on a hot day (the city has some fabulous artisan gelaterias) take a stroll on the beach promenade (‘Tayelet’), hunt for vintage items in Jaffa’s flea market then have lunch at Jaffa port, watching fisherman pull in their catch. Hire a bike and explore the city by cycling the boulevards or head to Yarkon Park and rent a paddleboat, which you can take all the way down to Luna Park (what’s more romantic than a ride on a Ferris wheel at night?). Also, consider a Jerusalem tour package - have a guide walk you through the Old City, from one ancient spot to the next, soaking up an atmosphere that’s 2,000 years old. Jerusalem might not have beaches and 24/7 activity, but it has a charm all of its own.City of David Archaeological site.Photo credit: © Shutterstock9. Getting LostFor those who like to live on the wild side, head to the central railway station of the city you’re staying in, buy a ticket to a place with the most exotic or unusual sounding name you can find and take a day trip there. Wander the streets, grab some street food and get lost. Just remember not to miss the last train home! Here are a few of our recommendations, on the ‘unusual’ front:Ein Hod - a charming artist’s village on the foot of a hill in the Carmel, between the mountain and the sea! It doesn’t just offer accommodation either - there are workshops for those with a creative inner spirit!Ein Kerem - this tranquil village in the west of Jerusalem will delight every honeymooner - full of history, its lush vegetation is downright gorgeous (and if you’re there in February, look out for the almond blossom).Caesarea - famous for its Herodian architecture, the city also boasts the Ralli modern art museum - filled with Spanish and Latin American art, its Moorish courtyard is the perfect place for honeymooners to sit and swoon over each other.Safed- magical and holy, wander through the ancient streets and let yourself be enveloped by its mysterious and intoxicating atmosphere. Don’t forget to visit the Artist’s Quarter while you’re there.Safed street.Photo credit: © Shutterstock10. Do as the Locals DoThis one sounds rather odd, but why not just ask a local? Israelis are notoriously friendly and apart from loving to help, they love to give advice! They also have opinions on everything - particularly the best places to see in what they consider to be the greatest country in the world.They won’t name the tourist spots either - they’ll tell you about the places they grew up in, went to as teenagers, or travelled en route to their army base! Places like the underground water cisterns in Ramle, the Druze village of Daliat-el-Carmel, and the Latrun monastery. They are all hidden tourist gems and most visitors to Israel never make it to them. To sum up, then, we think that you’ll love taking a honeymoon in Israel. The adventures the two of you will have in this exciting, beautiful and unusual country are ones you are guaranteed to love and the memories you’ll make we think will stay with you for years to come. Congratulations on tying the knot and see you soon!The Wedding Church at Cana, where Jesus performed the miracle of turning water into wine.Photo credit: © Shutterstock

If you’re travelling to the Middle East, it may well be an aim of yours to visit the West Bank, as well as Israel, to get an idea of how people live on both sides of the ‘fence’. Without getting into the ins and outs of the ongoing political situation, in general this is not too difficult a task (circumstances permitting) and - indeed - many tourists who do make the trip come back incredibly pleased they made the effort. Here we’ve compiled a little background information for you, along with some practical information and a few do’s and don’ts, which hopefully will make your trip ‘over the border’ as smooth as possible…Rooftop view of Bethlehem.Photo credit: © ShutterstockGeographyThe West Bank (also referred to by some Israelis as Judea and Samaria) is a piece of landlocked territory situated east of Jerusalem north of the Dead Sea and west of the state of Jordan. The area’s population is predominantly Palestinian but there are ‘pockets’ of military and civilian settlements throughout the territory, as well as a substantial Jewish presence in the city of Hebron.The West Bank is the larger part of the semi-autonomous Palestinian Authorities (PA), with the smaller being the Gaza Strip. Depending on which part of the West Bank you are visiting, you will be under the jurisdiction of Israel, the PA or even both. Under Israeli administration since the Six-Day War in 1976, the status of the territory is hotly disputed and its future status is entirely unknown. Attempts to resolve this question, involving summits between Israel and the PA have been held more than once, but with no fruitful outcome.The Jericho cable car over the Jordan valley.Photo credit: © ShutterstockThe West Bank is known as such because it is situated on the Western bank of the Jordan River. This is a part of the globe steeped in biblical history and, as such, contains many sites both of religious, historical and archaeological significance, particularly Jerichoand Bethlehem.Approximately two million Palestinians live in the West Bank, as well as around 475,000 Israeli settlers, residing in around 200 official and unofficial settlements dotted around the terrain. The climate is temperate and precipitation varies with altitude but, much like its neighbour Israel, summers are warm to very hot and winters are usually cool to mild. The land itself is extremely hilly and mountainous with heavy vegetation common and covers 5,700 kilometres. The soil is ideal for olive groves, olives being a major agricultural crop. Grapes, almonds and other deciduous trees flourish here too. Many farmers own sheep and goat herds; farming is an important part of cultural identity in Palestine.Qasr al Yahud baptismal site on the Jordan River.Photo credit: © ShutterstockHistorical Background Between 1948-1967 (from the War of Independence to the Six-Day War) the West Bank was occupied by Jordan. After 1967, Israel gained control of the territory and has maintained control of the area until now. Under the DOP ((Declaration of Principles on Interim Self-Government Arrangements, 1993), however, Israel agreed to transfer certain powers and responsibilities over to the Palestinian Authority, including the Palestinian Legislative Council.This agreement provided that Israel would retain responsibility during a transitional period for foreign and domestic security and public order of settlements and Israeli citizens. Direct negotiations to determine the permanent status of Gaza and West Bank began in the Fall of 1999, after a three-year hiatus, but were derailed by the Second Intifada, which broke out in late September 2000.In terms of politics, Fatah (which is a secular Palestinian party and supports negotiations leading towards an eventual Two-State Solution) is the dominant party in the West Bank whilst Hamas (an Islamic party, advocates armed resistance to Israel) dominates the political landscape in the Gaza strip. The Yesha Council, acting with the authority of Israel is responsible for the control and management of settlements within the West Bank.The state of play between Israeli and the Palestinian Authority has been relatively calm for the past few years until May 2021. The situation has stabilized after Israel and Hamas agreed to a cease-fire. Relations between Israel and Jordan have been good for more than two decades now, which has resulted in open borders (allowing for Jordanians to work in Eilat and for both Israelis and foreign tourists to take organizedtours to Petra.Nativity Church, Bethlehem.Photo credit: © ShutterstockVisiting the West BankBefore you set off on your Bethlehem or Jericho tour, think about the complicated situation in which these two peoples find themselves. Rather than taking an entrenched position, maybe try and exercise some objectivity and play devil’s advocate. Politics is politics and real people are real people - with complex emotions. We’d recommend watching the very moving film Waiting for Giraffes directed by the enthusiastic veterinarian, Sami Khader. Set in a small zoo, in Qalqilya, it’s a story about a shared passion for animals and the idea that bringing some giraffes back to the zoo might be the first step in resolving this entrenched conflict.So, onto the dos and don'ts. Let’s reverse the order and start with what you shouldn’t do (or at least try to avoid) when travelling in the West Bank.Nativity Church, Bethlehem. Photo credit: © Shutterstock1.Don’t Attempt to Visit Independently The bottom line is that getting into and out of the West Bank is difficult. By far and away the best way to visit is with an organized tour from Israel.Getting In:There is no airport (ergo no flights) and no trains. Travelling across the various checkpoints via buses can be time-consuming and frustrating, particularly if the borders are temporarily closed If you do want to try and travel alone, then you can take a bus from the East Jerusalem bus station, across from the Damascus Gate. This will take you directly to Ramallah.Something else to note is that Palestinian ID cardholders cannot travel to Israel or the PA through Ben Gurion Airport - they are required by law to fly into Amman, Jordan, then cross in via the Allenby Bridge, close to Jericho. So if for any reason, you are a foreign tourist but listed under the Israeli census as having or having had (i.e. by birth) a Palestinian ID, you run the risk of being sent home from Tel Aviv airport. Don’t chance it - fly into Amman!Getting Out:As mentioned above, delays often occur at checkpoints, especially if there has been recent violence or it’s the time of a major Jewish or Muslim holiday. If you’re travelling independently, it might even be quicker to cross the checkpoint on foot, rather than with a vehicle, then take a taxi to your destination.If you are using the Allenby Bridge to exit Israel or the Palestinian territories, you must have a multi-entry visa for Jordan before coming to the crossing. You can apply for this visa beforehand at the Jordanian Embassy in Ramallah or Tel Aviv. Elisha's Spring, Jericho.Photo credit: © Shutterstock2.Don’t Try to Visit if Fighting Between Israeli and the Palestinians Happens to be IntenseThe political situation here can be volatile and flare-ups can happen in the blink of an eye, so make sure to watch the news and keep yourself updated. If you are taking an organized tour, then your company will keep you advised but if you are traveling independently, vigilance is key. 3.Don’t Attempt to Travel Alone to the West Bank If You’re a Young Woman.We advise the above, not because we want to promote inaccurate stereotypes about the Muslim world, rather because as a young, single woman, you are more likely to be targeted. After the Hindawi affair, in 1986, young women are under extra suspicion at Israeli borders, which means you could end up spending a few hours being interrogated by Israeli border control. Either travel with a group on an organised tour, perhaps to Bethlehem and Jericho or simply enjoy yourself somewhere else - maybe the beach in Tel Aviv!When on a day tour in the West Bank, the general dress code for women is to be covered from the shoulders to below the knees. There is no need for you to wear a headscarf (unless you are entering a mosque or Muslim holy site, where you will need to be covered from head to toe save for your hands, face and feet). Not all women in the West Bank wear the hijab but be respectful - shorts and skimpy t-shirts are an absolute no!Now we’re done with the don’ts, let’s go onto the fun part….the dos! The fact is that whether you’re fascinated by the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, a committed Christian, or simply a curious traveller, then Palestine is going to fuel your excitement. Why?A silver star marks the site of the birth of Jesus, the Church of Nativity. Photo credit: © Shutterstock4.Local HospitalityPalestinians are warm and hospitable people and are more than happy to greet tourists. Don’t be surprised either if you’re invited for tea and baklava at a local’s house, not long after meeting them - it’s a great honour for them to welcome guests into their homes.5.A Rich History and CultureThe West Bank is home to cities with strong biblical connections, particularly Jericho and Bethlehem. Whether you’re a Christian or just interested in history, you will want to visit the Church of Nativity, Church of St. Catherine, the Milk Grotto, Elisha’s Spring, Tel Jericho and the Mount of Temptation.6.Beautiful MonasteriesMonasteries in the area are quite breathtaking. Try to see Mar Saba (15 km from Bethlehem on a day trip), Monastery of the Temptation (located in Jericho) and St George’s (in Wadi Qelt, very close to Jericho). All of these monasteries are best visited via private guided trips with guides who can really help you get the most out of your time there.St. George's Monastery, Wadi Qelt.Photo credit: © Shutterstock7.Qasr al Yahud on the Jordan RiverLocated outside of Jericho,Qasr al Yahud is the spot where Jesus was baptized by John and, although a smaller site than Yardenit in Galilee, thousands of pilgrims still come here to be baptized. Since it is in a remote part of the desert, why not visit it as part of a Jericho, Dead Sea and the Jordan River Tour?8.Fantastic FoodYou’ll be spoilt for choice with the array of Mediterranean and Levantine cuisine on offer. Falafel, shawarma, hummus (a classic), baba ganoush, tabouli and kofta are all delicious savoury snacks and available on every street corner. The range of salads served with them will also have you salivating. Meat stews (made of lamb) are popular as entrees and ice creams are a perfect dessert. Don’t forget to try some sweet knafeh too - a Nablus speciality. This semolina based, sugar-soaked pastry, layered with cheese or nuts, is to die for!As for drinking, in Ramallah, alcohol is often available at restaurants, because the city has Christian history and, by West Bank standards, remains rather secular. Indeed, most Christian Palestinians who live in Ramallah drink alcohol, and there is an excellent microbrewery in Taybeh. However, it really isn’t appropriate to get drunk - it is frowned upon culturally and it is bad manners to boot. Behave well and think about the impression you want to leave behind.Hummus plate. Photo by Christopher Alvarenga on Unsplash9.Arts and CraftsWhether you want a souvenir for a friend or to treat yourself to something special, you won’t come away disappointed. Ceramics, jewellery, delicate and intricate embroidery (all carried out by hand, by talented female seamstresses) and olive wood carvings are all great buys.So to sum up, we’d definitely say the West Bank is worth a visit - for history, archaeology, culture, food and people. Just play it safe and take guided Bethlehem tours or Jericho excursions from Israel. And in case you’re worried about a lack of objectivity, let us point out that we do use local tour guides!What are you waiting for?Ceramics in Bethlehem.Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin

Less than an hour’s drive from Jerusalem and surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of the Judean desert, lies the Dead Sea (‘Yam ha Melach’ in Hebrew). Landlocked between Israel and Jordan, it has the lowest elevation (423 metres below seal level) on earth and is an extraordinary natural wonder due to the high saline (salt) levels it contains. The result of this salty water? Not only is it impossible to dive there (and it’s deep), it’s impossible even to swim! However, with its warm, arid temperatures and endless blue skies, it's also one of Israels’ most popular attractions, not just for tourists but for its citizens, who flock there to relax, hike, or indulge in ‘therapeutic treatments’ such as sulphur baths and mud packs, or simply soak up the sun’s rays, which are excellent for skin ailments such as eczema and psoriasis.The Dead Sea.Photo credit: © ShutterstockWhy is the Dead Sea Unique?Apart from the fact that its salt content is so high, and that it’s situated at the lowest point on earth, the Dead Sea is unique because it’s actually full of life. Not life as we’d consider it - no fish or animal can survive there - but life in the form of minerals that aid and heal the body. The evidence is indisputable - in fact, both King Herod and Cleopatra visited the area to indulge in its healing properties. Today, it is still recommended by doctors worldwide as an excellent destination for the treatment of skin ailments, arthritis, and high blood pressure. And because of its desert location, there is very little rainfall, making it a popular year-round attraction. Whether you’re looking for a stone massage, an aromatic salt exfoliation body scrub, or a rejuvenating mud scalp treatment, you’ll be able to find it here.Mineral-rich Dead Seamud mask. Photo credit: © ShutterstockGeology of the Dead SeaAbout 2 million years ago, the land between the Sedom Lagoon (which connected to the Mediterranean through the Jezreel Valley) rose incredibly high, leading to the creation of this landlocked lake. As tectonic plates shifted, the floor of the valley shifted accordingly; at the same time, the arid desert climate led to the lake evaporating. As the years passed, the lake shrank and about 7,000 years ago, this resulted in what we know today.More recently, water from the Jordan River flowed into the Dead Sea but today, with water diverted from the Galilee, its only source of water is from flash floods and sulfur springs. Since water is continually evaporating (due to the desert climate) this means that the Dead Sea is actually shrinking, leaving behind crusty salt crystals which end up ‘snowing down’ up to 10cm worth on the seafloor each year. No wonder it’s impossible to swim here - the water concentration is so dense that your body automatically becomes lighter, leaving you floating to the surface!Amazingly though, at the same time, the Dead Sea still helps support a complex ecosystem. How? Freshwater springs and oases along the shore are home to many indigenous species of fish, plants, and mammals - including ibex and leopards. There are also over 300 species of birds in the area, including eagles, kestrels, and honey buzzards (all of which pass over, on their migration from Europe to Africa).A salt flat on the shores of the Dead Sea.Photo credit: © ShutterstockThe Dead Sea in Ancient TimesThere are many references in the Bible to the Dead Sea, with it called by other names, including the ‘Salt Sea’, the ‘Stinking Sea’, and the ‘Eastern Sea’. Historically, it has been regarded as more of a territorial boundary than a ‘destination’ - nevertheless, many important biblical settlements, including Ein Gedi, Qumran, and the ancient fortress of Masada were positioned there.Archaeologists also believe that the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah (referred to in Genesis as two notoriously sinful cities, and subsequently destroyed by God) happened in this area. The famous Old Testament story of Lot’s wife - who disobeyed God’s command not to look back and was then turned into a pillar of salt - is also believed to have taken place here. Fun fact: strange formations of salt, which resemble pillars, can be seen in the south-eastern corner of the sea, and have been nicknamed ‘Lot’s Wife’ by tour guides!TheQumran Caves near the Dead Sea.Photo credit: © ShutterstockThe Qumran Caves and the Dead Sea ScrollsQumran, nearby, is also home to the spot at which an astonishing discovery was made in 1949, when a shepherd boy (looking for a lost member of his flock) wandered into a cave and stumbled upon what, today, is named the Dead Sea Scrolls. Approximately 2,000 years old, and dating back to 3 BCE, these documents (made of animal skin, papyrus, and even forged copper) give us extraordinary and valuable insights into the Essenes, a community who had fled Jerusalem for this remote area, so as to continue with its unique way of life.Today, the Dead Sea Scrolls are a highlight of any visit to the Israel Museum in Jerusalem. Housed in an astonishing building named ‘The Shrine of the Book’ visitors enter this stunning white dome (an architectural masterpiece, designed to represent the lid of the jars in which the scrolls were found) to view these ancient Biblical manuscripts (also known as the Aleppo Codex). For any history lover, a private tour of the museum is highly recommended.The Shrine of the Book, which houses the Dead Sea Scrolls, Jerusalem. Photo credit: © ShutterstockThe Dead Sea Today - Shrinkage and SinkholesToday, there’s no point in pretending that isn’t a crisis on the horizon - the Dead Sea has a fraction of what it used to gain from its original water flow from the Jordan River. On top of that, the tiny amounts that remain are being diverted for other purposes - industry, irrigation, and hydroelectric power. To maintain its current size, it would need an infusion of 150 billion gallons of water annually and it receives about 10% of that. Time-lapse photography by Noam Bedein shows the alarming and dramatic changes that have occurred even in the last few years, as this landlocked lake literally dries up.And as if this were not problematic enough, there’s another problem with which to contend - sinkholes. As the Dead Sea shrinks, the freshwater aquifers along its perimeter recede; the water diffuses into salt deposits beneath the surface then slowly dissolves until the earth suddenly collapses (usually with no advance warning). In the last 15 years, over 1,000 sinkholes have arisen, swallowing up date palms, parts of the road, and even some buildings. More than one beach has even had to close, as a result. Scientists even fear that if things continue, the nearby springs that feed oases in the Judean desert will die too, leaving a vibrant ecosystem at great risk.A gazebo on the Dead seashore.Photo credit: © ShutterstockSocial Activism and Environmental ProjectsLuckily, it’s not all bad news. As more and more scientists and environmentalists speak out, highlighting the threat posed to the area, an increasing number of social activism projects are being set up, to counter this dangerous trend, Friends of the Earth Middle East, for instance, is part of a coalition of 21 environmental groups which have developed proposals to encourage individuals to conserve household water use. Moreover, the Dead Sea-Red Sea project is planning on opening a desalination facility in the area and, using advanced technology, aims to provide clean drinking water for millions of people in the region. Scientists are also trying to persuade local farmers in the area to plant different kinds of crops from those that exist now - olives, dates, and certain flowers, for instance, don’t require fresh water. And perhaps the most well-known venture is the Dead Sea Revival Project, which aims to become a leading NGO for environmental education and activism. Producing films, multimedia presentations, and photographic exhibitions, they aim to raise awareness not just amongst tourists and Israeli citizens but on a global level. Their fascinating ‘Virtual Museum’ allows you to tour the Dead Sea from your electronic device, and see for yourself the beauty of the place, as well as get involved in projects and enter competitions, all designed to highlight awareness of the challenges faced in preserving the area. Ibexes in Ein Gedi Nature Reserve.Photo credit: © ShutterstockSites and Activities in the Surrounding AreaFor any visitor to Israel, a day trip to the Dead Sea may well be one of the great highlights. But it’s not just the salty water itself that will leave people speechless, but also a large number of additional sites to explore and activities to join, all in the immediate area. For those, not a fan floating in salty water, or slathering themselves in black mud, a simple stroll along the promenade (from which Jordan is clearly visible) is highly recommended. All along are different beaches, with kiosks, cafes, showers, and sun loungers for rent. At some, it’s also possible to pop into hotels and enjoy their spa treatments. For the more adventurous, why not join a jeep safari? These four-hour adventures will take you inland, across rugged terrain, and let you see the beauty of the Judean desert up close and personal. These tours usually pass Qumran, where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found, and also the ancient Murbaat caves. You’ll have the chance to experience some local Bedouin hospitality along the way, in the form of hot tea inside a large tent.A jeep safari in the Judean desert.Photo credit: © ShutterstockFor those who crave an adrenaline rush, there’s the possibility of rappelling down cliff faces in Wadi Qumran or skydiving off the face of the magnificent Masada fortress. If you’re looking for outdoor activity, but something not too extreme, then the hiking opportunities in the area are endless - Metsuke Dragot, David’s Waterfall, Einot Tzukim, Dodim’s Cave, and the Ein Gedi hot springs are all incredibly beautiful. The trails range in difficulty but there are 10 classed as ‘moderate’ which most people can manage. (Look out for the picnic areas, if you need a rest, and stop to look at the mountain goats on the slopes!)Another possibility, especially if you want someone else to do the hard work, is to take an organized Masada and Dead Sea tour, or combineMasada at sunrise, Ein Gedi, and the Dead Sea? Or, if you want a little culture thrown in, mix Jerusalem with a trip to the Dead Sea? For nature and history lovers, it might be worth taking a private guide to explore Qumran and Ein Gedi, who will know the best spots for you to spy ibex, eagles, and rock badgers. Or if you’re simply in the mood to kick back, then book the Dead Sea Relaxation Tour - it will revive every pore in your body!Qasr al Yahud, the baptismal site on the Jordan River.Photo credit: © ShutterstockThe Dead Sea is also very close to Jericho and the Jordan River, which give you the opportunity of visiting not just this small but ancient town but also the ancient baptismal site of Qasr al Yahud, where John baptized Jesus and where pilgrims still visit today, to dip themselves in the water. Sitting there, in the desert, by the Jordan, you truly feel you are in the wilderness. (Fun fact: historically, Christian pilgrims who traveled here from Jerusalem would be transported on camels - the journey took some days!)The fact is that the Dead Sea and its surrounding environment have something for everyone - and especially with a guided group touror a private excursion, with all the logistics dealt with for you, you’ll have time to take it all in. With its breathtaking hilltop fortress of Masada, a must-see for any tourist in the region, delicate ecosystem, and unique history, it’s the perfect destination for first-time and returning visitors. All you need to do is pack a broad-brimmed hat, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and sunscreen and arm yourself with a bottle of water. Then start exploring - we don’t think you’ll ever forget what you see!Camel riding near the Dead Sea.Photo credit: © Shutterstock

So you’ve booked your ticket to Israel - well, congratulations on your impending trip. Now, all you need to think about is packing your suitcase! For first-time visitors to this country, it’s often a bit of a dilemma, wondering what essentials to bring and whether it’s better to play it safe or travel light and buy on the road. If you do decide to travel light, you’re well set because Israeli is a highly-developed country with all kinds of western amenities. Just be aware that they might be more expensive to buy there than at home (Israel is not the cheapest of countries). In the meantime, to help you navigate the ‘suitcase dilemma’ we’ve compiled an ‘Ultimate Travel Essentials Checklist’. The items we talk about below are really a ‘must’ and they won’t just keep you safe and healthy, but they’ll also keep you good-tempered! Here we go:Backpacker in Israel.Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin1. Don't Forget Your DocumentsAlong with your passport (and a visa, if necessary) bring copies of documents relating to your medical insurance and COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate. You should also bring personal prescriptions for any medication you take, should you need to consult a doctor whilst on vacation. All of these can be saved electronically (as backups) or copies can be left with close friends and relatives back home. Keep a copy of your passport in your suitcase too, just in case, and unless you need to cross your passport at a border (if you are traveling to Jordan, to visit Petra, or crossing a checkpoint, on a tour of Bethlehem or Jericho, lock up your passport in your bedroom or hotel safe. Your tour operator will probably have sent you confirmation emails of your trip and any additional Israel day tours you’ve booked, so keep a copy of these too. Packing a suitcase.Photo byFrancesca TiricoonUnsplash2. Sun ProtectionIsrael is a very sunny country, with long, hot summers and, in the Negev desert, plenty of sunshine in the winter too. Eilat, on the Red Sea, is a great place to soak up the rays in December and January, and actually averages 360 sunny days a year! So don’t forget to pack sunglasses, a hat (preferably wide-brimmed), plenty of sunscreen, and aftersun (aloe vera) too. If you run out, look in your nearest ‘Superpharm’ - a nationwide chain - where most of the staff speak English and will gladly help you find what you need. If you’re a sun worshipper, then grab yourself a lounger and umbrella and head to the beach - Tel Aviv, Herzliya, Netanya, and picturesque spots all the way up and down the coast boast white sand and clear water - perfect for relaxation. If you’re more of an active type, make sure to see the sun rise or set in a dramatic location. You can take a day tour, climbing Masada early in the morning (then continue on to the Dead Sea for some ‘floating time’) or walk through narrow alleyways in the Old City of Jerusalem, before watching the sunset over the walls from atop the Mount of Olives.Tourist at Rosh Hanikra, Israel.Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin3.Devices and GadgetsWe’re all socially connected these days and most visitors in Israel will want to arrive with their smartphones, tablets, and cameras. A phone charger is essential and maybe even a power bank if you are planning on using your iPhone or Samsung to take many photos throughout the day. Before you fly, you might want to download a few Travel Apps to your phone to give you tips on a currency conversion, local directions, Hebrew phrases, and digital journaling. In the old days, people carried small travel dictionaries but now it’s all within a short scroll - take a look at our Hebrew dictionary if you want to learn the basics! Israel has so many wonderful photographic opportunities too - from historic sites to the coastline, mountains, and deserts to vineyards and hot springs, so if you’re a keen amateur photographer, you’re going to be in your element.Rosh Hanikra Grottoes, Israel.Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin4. Eye Mask, Ear Plugs, and a Basic First Aid KitWhether it’s to help you sleep at night, or to block out noise when you’re traveling with a group on a tour bus, a fold-up eye mask and some earplugs are a no-brainer. We’d also advise packing a basic First Aid Kit - a small bag or box containing pain relief, antiseptic cream, band-aids, anti-diarrhea/anti-histamine medication, and a small bandage and safety pin. If you’re traveling in Israel on an organized tour package then your guide will most likely have all these things to hand but it’s good to be prepared in any event. As we’ve said before, the pharmacies in Israel are excellent and nearly all staff speak English, so you can always stop off when in a city center, to pick up anything you might need.Scattered pills. Photo byHal GatewoodonUnsplash5. Essential ToiletriesWe’ve said it before and we’ll say it again, there’s a lot of sun in Israel and the summers can be super hot (and, on the coast, humid). Between the months of May and September, most Israelis shower several times a day, just to stay sane! Don’t forget your deodorant, skin moisturizer, and a good lip balm too (it can be windy in the Golan Heights and the sun can be a real beast in the Negev and Arava deserts).Whether you’re exploring the Acre and Caesarea coastline, touring in the Galilee, or trekking in Mitzpe Ramon’s crater you’ll need good sunscreen and Aloe Vera for any sore skin at the end of a long day. And if you’ve forgotten your favorite moisturizer, don’t panic - you can purchase a wide range of Ahava beauty products on any Dead Sea tour.The Dead Sea.Photo credit: © Shutterstock6. Swimsuit or Swim TrunksThere are a lot of misconceptions about Israel and one of them is that the entire country is a desert, with its citizens using camels for their daily commute! But whilst the Negev and Arava deserts do cover a lot of landmasses, Israel is actually home to four seas - the Mediterranean, the Dead Sea, the Red Sea, and the Kinneret (Sea of Galilee).Since it’s possible (and highly recommended) to swim in all of them, don’t forget your bathing suit, bikini, or swimming trunks, or treat yourself to something made by Gottex, the top-tier, luxury Israeli brand made famous by the pioneering female entrepreneur Lea Gottlieb. Floating in the Dead Sea in one of her creations means you’ll be stylish as well as super relaxed!Tourist floating in the Dead Sea.Photo credit: © Shutterstock7. Reusable Water BottleThis one is an absolute must, and we aren’t kidding. We all associate summer with beaches, sunshine, and fun excursions, and no more so than in Israel, where many people spend hours of their free time outdoors. If you don’t drink enough water, you could end up dehydrated and suffering from a nasty case of heatstroke. In the summer months, it’s advisable to try and drink at least 2 liters of water a day, to make sure your body has sufficient fluids to keep you healthy.Carry a water bottle that you can easily refill, and top it up at the numerous fountains you’ll see on beaches, in parks, and throughout shopping areas. In the meantime, don’t forget to enjoy Israel’s many bodies of water: the Jordan River (perfect for a kayaking trip), Ein Gedi waterfall and Baths (a lush oasis close to the Dead Sea), and the stunning Ein Avdat canyon, with its water pools, in the Negev. There are also Hamat Gader hot springsin Galilee, the gorgeous Banias waterfalls, and also Lake Ram near Mount Hermon. Tourist with a reusable water bottle. Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin8. Sturdy ShoesIf you’re not planning on being a Beach Bunny, chances are that you’re going to want to be exploring some of the endless historical and archaeological sites around the country. Whether you visit them alone or as part of aJerusalem day tour, such as ‘Walking in Jesus’s Footsteps’ or ‘Underground Jerusalem’ you’re going to need sturdy footwear for what’s involved.If you’re planning on trekking in the Negev or Arava desert (and especially if you’re hiking in Mitzpe Ramon) don’t hesitate to bring good hiking boots - they will be a lifesaver! In general, if you’re exploring cities like Tel Aviv and Haifa, or archaeological sites like Caesarea and Tsipori, you’ll be able to manage with sneakers or support sandals, as long as you don’t attempt to climb over a Roman aqueduct or down a Crusader tunnel!Men's shoes on the wall of a house in Acre, Israel.Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin9. A Good BookIt’s always worthwhile to keep some printed matter close to hand - whether it’s a guidebook, a captivating novel, or perhaps something specifically to do with Israel. If you’re curious about the Jerusalem childhood of one of Israel’s most famous novelists - Amos Oz - then pick up a copy of his extraordinary autobiography, ‘A Tale of Love and Darkness.’ For a historical account of the early pioneers, you could do worse than Israeli historian Tom Segev’s ‘The First Israelis’ which deals with Israel’s first year of statehood. For something a little lighter, go for the hip writer Etgar Keret - ‘The Bus Driver Who Wanted to Be God and Other Stories’ is witty, intelligent, and painfully honest. There are also numerous books written on the subject of Jerusalem (historical, theological, and political) but for those who really like a tome, you can’t do better than Simon Sebag-Montefiore’s eponymous ‘Jerusalem.’ All of these are available at branches of Steimatzky, a leading bookshop in Israel.The Bible book of Ecclesiastes. Photo credit: © Sincerely Media on Unsplash10. Comfortable ClothesChances are you’re going to be exploring when in Israel, whether it’s nature reserves and deserts, museums and galleries, or historical and religious sites. Comfortable clothing is a must - and if you’re arriving any time between May and October, cotton is your best bet because otherwise, you’ll sweat profusely. A large hat (with a wide brim), T-shirts, light trousers (not denim), and shorts are all essentials. Israelis are quite casual in their dress and so you won’t need to resort to formal attire for dinners, even when out at costly restaurants. It’s not uncommon for men to arrive at dinner in shorts in Israel and ties are rarely seen! Women can enjoy wearing lightweight dresses and short tops and skirts in Tel Aviv although in more religious cities like Jerusalem it is advisable to lower the hemline! You’re also going to need some relatively ‘modest attire’ for any religious sites you visit. In the Old City of Jerusalem, you should cover your shoulders (and wear a skirt below the knee) when visiting somewhere such as the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, as a matter of respect. At the Western Wall, volunteers will offer women a scarf to drape over their shoulders and men a kippah (skullcap) to put atop their head, before approaching the Wall to pray or observe those at prayer. The same goes for any visit you may make to a mosque or Arab city, which are generally quite conservative in terms of social norms - when in doubt, cover your arms and legs! Now start packing for an unforgettabletour of Israel!Kippahs in Bazaarin Safed, Israel.Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin

For many visitors to Israel, whatever their religious background, one of the highlights of the trip will be exploring the country’s many historical and religious sites. Israel has countless churches open to the public, many of them dating back hundreds of years, and as well as a great number in the capital, Jerusalem, there are some beautiful and fascinating buildings across the country. ForChristians visiting Israel on apackage tour, walkingin the footsteps of Jesusis an incredibly moving experience, and theexpedition of a lifetime. But you don’t have to be a Christian to find these sites extraordinary. Here, we look at ten of the most ancient churches in Israel and why tens of thousands of people each year flock to them, to gaze in awe at their architecture, mosaics, artefacts and let themselves be transported back in time…Church of Multiplication, Tabgha, Israel.Photo credit: © Shutterstock1. Megiddo, Jezreel ValleyThe Meggido church, in the Jezreel Valley, is located near Tel Megiddo in northern Israel and was found in a dramatic archaeological discovery in 2006. Its foundations date back to the 3rd century, making it Israel’s oldest church (even older than Jerusalem’s famous Church of the Holy Sepulchre). Astonishingly, it was found behind the doors of a maximum-security prison - indeed, some inmates helped archaeologists with the excavations!Findings there included an elaborate, well-preserved mosaic, which is unusual in that there are no crosses there, rather a picture of two fish lying side by side. Historians say this is the sign of a very early symbol, dating back to the period before Christianity was officially recognized as a religion (i.e. before Saint Constantine’s rule). There is also the inscription on the mosaic which names a Roman army officer - Gaianus - who donated money to the building of the floor. Combined with atrip to Nazareth, a visit to Megiddo is well worth your time.Tel Megiddo, Israel.Photo credit: © Shutterstock2. Ein Avdat, Negev DesertSituated in a canyon, in the heart of the Negev Desert, the southern church there was part of the Byzantine Monastery or St. Theodoros. According to inscriptions found on the church floor, historians estimate that the church dates back to the 6th or 7th century. Archaeological findings show that the Ein Avdat church was inhabited both by the Nabateans and Catholic Monks. Historically, Avdat was a stop along the ‘Spice Route’ which transported spices and perfumes from the Arabian Peninsula to the port of Gaza. Because the area had many springs, a water supply was plentiful and the area quickly prospered. Little is left of the church today but we do know that reliquaries - containers holding a sacred relic - were kept inside. Once the oil had been poured over the relic, it was collected in bottles for pilgrims to keep as a souvenir.Ein Avdat, Israel. Photo credit: © Oksana Matz3. Church of the Multiplication, Tabgha, GalileeMuch of Jesus’ ministry and preaching was carried out in the Galilee and this church - situated in Tabgha, on the northwest side of the lake, the Church of Multiplication is famous for being the spot where the miracle of the ‘two fishes and fives loaves’ were multiplied, in order to feed 5,000 people. This extremely old Byzantine church contains beautiful mosaics, depicting animals, plants - particularly the lotus flower - and geometric figures, all adding to its charm.The church underwent excavation in the 1930s and a new building was inaugurated in May 1982, to commemorate the sacred space as well as to accommodate the thousands of visitors who wanted to visit each week. Today, it is one of the most popular places to visit for tourists traveling around Galilee and Nazareth, either on historical or Christian day tours. Fun fact; the church windows are not made of glass, rather of stone! For a moment of quiet reflection, visit the pool in the backyard, which is full of fish. Other churches in the area can be visited with aChristian galilee tour.Church of Multiplication, Tabgha.Photo credit: © Shutterstock4. Church of the Pater Noster, JerusalemSituated at the top of the Mount of Olives, the history of the Pater Noster dates back to the rule of Emperor Constantine, who erected a simple building on this site in 330 known as ‘Eleona’. ‘Pater Noster’ in Latin means ‘Our Father’ and according both to tradition and the Gospel of Luke, the cave forming the grotto (under the church) was where Jesus taught his disciples the Lord’s Prayer, which begins “Our Father, who art in heaven...”In 1874, the present church (which is part of a Carmelite Monastery) was erected. This credo is represented on the walls of the church, in the form of the Lord’s Prayer translated into close to 130 languages, all painted on ceramic tiles. The gardens are well landscaped, full of olive trees, and this tends to be more peaceful and (generally) less crowded than others in Jerusalem. Ideal for a visit on a day tour of Jerusalem.Pater Noster Church, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © Shutterstock5. Church of the Nativity, BethlehemThe Church of Nativity, a famous Bethlehem basilica, located just 10 kilometers from Jerusalem, is loaded with significance in that Christians believe it to be the birthplace of Christ. Built in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian, it replaced Constantine the Great’s original structure (dedicated in 339 CE), and today is the oldest complete church in the Christian world.The interior of the church is somewhat minimalist (no pews in which to sit) but the wall mosaics - depicting saints and angels - are stunning and have been restored. The roof is held up by red limestone pillars (the stone obtained from local quarries). Two sets of stairs will let you descend to the Grotto of the Nativity where there you will see a 14-point silver star. This marks the exact spot of Jesus’ birth. This sacred spot is well worth a visit, perhaps by joining a Bethlehem half-day tour?Church of Nativity, Bethlehem.Photo credit: © Shutterstock6. Church of the Transfiguration, Mount TaborThis church is located on Mount Tabor in Galilee and is recognized as the place where Jesus was transfigured in the presence of his disciples, Peter, John, and James (notated in the Gospels). Because of its location along the major trade routes, the area was always of strategic importance in wars. The entire surrounding area, including Tsipori and Beit Shearim,is well worth exploring on a private tour.The Church of the Transfiguration is perched very dramatically atop the mount, offering visitors stunning views, and was built over the remains of previous churches from both Byzantine and Crusader times. The current building was erected in 924 by the Franciscans and boasts an impressive mosaic and chapels dedicated to Elijah and Moses. The smaller Greek Orthodox church nearby is not usually open to the public.Church of the Transfiguration, Mount Tabor.Photo credit: © Natalia Brizeli7. Church of the Ascension, JerusalemThe beautiful Church of the Ascension, run under the auspices of Russian Orthodox nuns, is situated in Jerusalem, on the Mount of Olives. Dedicated to the ascension of Jesus (the day that Christ physically departed Earth, in the presence of 11 of his apostles) its tower - at 64 meters - was constructed at the end of the 19th century, so that pilgrims who could not walk as far as the Jordan River could at least climb its steps and take in the view. At the tower’s top is a belfry and inside it a heavy iron bell, the first-ever Christian bell to be rung in Ottoman times.The original structure was built in the 4th century but most of its inside, today, dates back to Crusader times. On the floor inside is a slab of rock, with an imprint inside which is considered to be Jesus’ footprint. This is known as the ‘Ascension Rock.’ After Muslims took control of the chapel from the Crusaders in 1188, they converted it into a mosque - look carefully and you will see a minaret. The Mount of Olives has three other churches that are associated with the ascension, and an excellent way to see them is on a private walking tourof the area.The Russian Orthodox Church of the Ascension, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © Dan Porges8. Church of the Holy Sepulchre, JerusalemWithout a doubt, the most famous church in Israel and a highlight of any visit to the capital, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre sits within the Christian Quarter of the Old City of Jerusalem. Famed for being the place not just at which Jesus was crucified but where he was also buried and resurrected, it is a focal point for Christian pilgrims, particularly at Easter when pilgrims retrace Christ’s last walk along the Via Dolorosa (the last four ‘Stations of the Cross’ are within this church).Built by Constantine the Great in 326 CE over a tomb believed to be that of Jesus, it took nine more years before commemoration and the wooden doors of the church are original. Inside the magnificent interior are a number of sites including the tomb of Jesus (which sits under the largest dome in the church) the Anointing Stone (tradition says that this is the spot where Christ’s body was prepared for burial) and Calvary itself (which has two chapels, one of which houses the Rock of Golgotha, which can be seen through the glass. The jurisdiction of the church compound is divided between the Catholic, Armenian, and Greek Orthodox Churches. (Interesting fact: look out for the thousands of crosses, scratched into the walls by Crusaders traveling to the Holy Land from Europe). Truly one of Jerusalem’s most breathtaking sites and a must-see on a tour of the Old and New City.Church of the Holy Sepulchre.Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin9. St. George's Monastery, Wadi QeltSt. George's Monastery, one of five monasteries in the Judean desert this extraordinary building has been carved into the edge of a cliff in the north-eastern part of a huge canyon in which it sits. To reach it, you walk down a somewhat steep but paved hill and across a bridge - the location is extraordinarily picturesque and impressive and even overshadows the monastery itself.The monastery itself was settled in 420 CE, by Syrian monks, in the emptiness of the desert. It is, however, named after Saint George of Choziba, a Cypriot monk who lived there in the 6th century. Inside, the chapel remains in its original form. The monastery is multi-layered, with two churches, both of which contain icons and mosaics, and the doors in iconostasis date back to the 12th century. Following the stairs down from the courtyard, you will find the Cave of Elijah. It is possible to explore this monastery alone but not easy or particularly advisable because of its remote location so probably best to take a private guided tour. St. George's Monastery, Wadi Qelt. Photo credit: © Shutterstock10. St. Joseph’s Church, NazarethSt. Joseph’s Franciscan Сhurch is located in Nazareth, the town of Jesus’ birth, and was built, according to tradition, over what was once the carpentry workshop of Jesus’ father, Joseph. The site was converted into a place of worship in Byzantine times and after the Crusaders arrived, in 12 CE, another church was built over it. After the Crusaders were defeated by the Arabs, the church was destroyed and was not rebuilt until 1914, by the Franciscans.Inside, the apse of the church has three paintings of interest: The Holy Family, The Dream of Joseph, and The Death of Joseph in the Arms of Jesus and Mary. Down a stairway lies a crypt where visitors can see caverns through a floor grille. A few more steps along leads to a black and white mosaic floor - some historians think that it was in use as early as the 1st-2nd century, and used as a pre-Constantine Christian Baptistery.St. Joseph is situated north of the Basilica of the Annunciation and close to the large Franciscan convent Terra Santa. It can be visited easily, along with other places of interest in Nazareth, and perhaps combined with a visit to the nearby Sea of Galilee. A perfect fit would be theNazareth and the Sea of Galilee Tour.St. Joseph’s Church, Nazareth.Photo credit: © Shutterstock

So you’ve decided to visit Israel. Well, first of all, congratulations - you’ve made a fine choice. This is a country that has something for everyone - historical and religious sites, culture galore in the form of museums, are galleries, high-quality guided tours, theatre and live music, not to mention mountains, deserts and miles and miles of beautiful coastline. Finding ways to spend your days here is no problem.Tourists on a Bahai Gardens tour, Haifa. Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinThe big question is, if you’re coming in a group, then how do you go about choosing a good tour operator? Google a search and you’ll be confronted with a wealth of information that can, all too quickly, become overwhelming. As tour operators ourselves, we know how important it is to make a good choice of the company because, let’s face it, from the moment you land, you’re going to be in the hands of these people. Here are a few things we think are worth taking into consideration before you press the ‘book now’ button…1. Check if the Tour Operator is Registered with the ITOAMembership of the Israel Incoming Tours Operators Association means that the tour operator is both professional and reliable, using qualified and only licensed tour guides. IOTA membership means you can have peace of mind, knowing that the organization you’re booking with has passed a credibility test.Jerusalem courtyard, Old City.Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin2. Don’t Necessarily Go with the Lowest PriceWhen a price looks too good to be true, that means it probably is. Sure, grabbing a bargain is a great thing, but if you aren’t careful, you could end up spending more in the long run because you haven’t read the fine print. In some cases, cheap prices mean that you’ll be paying your own entrance fees, be limited in terms of pick up and drop off points, and may even end up compromising on the quality of your accommodation and guides.Another thing is that higher prices don’t always mean you’re being fleeced. Reputable tour operators work with fleets of buses and a maintenance supervisor (rather than cheaper operators, that may be leasing smaller vehicles). And, of course, licensed, accredited tour guides are going to have higher fees - but you’re paying for their knowledge and experience. Our advice? Check carefully as to what is and isn’t included in the price, before you make your decision because cheap in the short term could be costly in the long term.Byzantine Cardo, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin3. Do Your Research. Check the Reviews on Trip AdvisorIf 90% of the reviews you read are positive, then it’s pretty safe to say that the tour operator is trustworthy. Ask around too - maybe you have friends or colleagues who’ve been in Israel and they can recommend someone? Hearing first hand about someone’s trip, or reading a well-written review, will give you crucial insights into the company you are looking at. So take your time when looking around - because carrying out some homework will always pay dividends.4. Define Your Specific NeedsThere are so many different kinds of Israel tourson the market - and one size never fits all. Some people don’t mind being in a large group….other travelers seek something smaller and more intimate. Certain travelers want a trip that’s packed full of historical sites and places of worship; others want more ‘fun’ attractions such as wine-tasting and a chance to shop. Entrance to the Tower of David, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinAsk yourself what you really want. Are you looking for a tour that takes you to museums and galleries, with group dinner each night? Or are you looking for something with a bit of free time included, letting you spend occasional afternoons or evenings alone? Also, check with the tour operator if there’s flexibility in the schedule, or whether you’re committed to the entire itinerary. Equally importantly, ask if it’s possible to be collected or dropped off in another city, if you’re arriving before the group, or departing after them.5. What’s Their Customer Service Like?Customer service is probably one of the most important things you’re going to be looking for when making a decision about a tour operator. First and foremost, make sure that there will always be a direct phone number you can call, 24/7 if any problems arise. It’s essential to be able to speak to a real live human too, rather than an automated service that some companies use out of hours. Also, find out what the tour operator’s policy is if an outing can’t take place, because someone in the group is late for morning pick-up, or the tour bus breaks down? Check reviews too - when people feel let down, they will often write about it publicly. The Western Wall, Jerusalem. Photo credit: © Shutterstock6. Are They Tech-Savvy?Not all tour operators in Israel have an online booking system that is constantly being updated, in real-time. When you use a reputable company, they have access to very smart, unique software, which ensures that the moment you book, you're confirmed, which means you know you’re on the list. This gives you real peace of mind.7. Are All the Major Attractions You Want to See Included in the Tour? Whether you’ve been to Israel before or it’s a ‘once in a lifetime trip for you, you’ll want to know that a fair few of the attractions you want to see are included in the trip. This is where choosing the ‘right’ Israel tour package comes in - for pilgrimstours to Jerusalem, Nazareth and the Galilee are all key.Multiplication Church, Tabgha.Photo credit: © ShutterstockFor history lovers, visits to Roman and Crusader sites like Caesarea and Acre are a must. For culture vultures, a visit to Jerusalem’s Israel Museum will be imperative. And for many, no trip to Israel would be complete without a day in Tel Aviv, the Non-Stop City, with its Bauhaus architecture, thriving food scene, and lively nightlife. Choose carefully - because even in two weeks you won’t be able to see everything! 8. Take a Look at the About Us Pageon the Website. This will give you in-depth information on how long they’ve been in business, what services they offer, and if they collaborate with other travel companies around the world (always a good sign). A reputable Israeli tour operator won’t have anything to hide - after building up their business over the years, and learning from their mistakes, they will not fear transparency!Gamla, an ancient Jewish city, Golan Heights. Photo credit: © Shutterstock9. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Lots of Questions. A good tour operator will be happy to answer all of your questions. After all, you’re the customer and you’re paying for this experience, so it should measure up to your expectations. Check to make sure that all of the main attractions you want to see are included. Ask what happens on free days and if you’ll need to budget for your own lunches and dinners. Double-check on what’s included and what is not. And feel free to ask away about who is leading your trip - a tour guide can really make or break your trip! What’s the conclusion then? Well, we might be biased but we think you could do far worse than to consider Bein Harim Tourism Services for your tour operator. We are, indeed, a member of IOTA, and with our own fleet of minibusses and supervisors (under the eagle eye of a maintenance officer) you’ll travel in comfort. The vast majority of reviews about us on Tripadvisor are positive, so you can book with confidence. And we offer a round-the-clock service, for any problems or mishaps that may arise, which means you have complete peace of mind, should anything go awry.Tour of Masada.Photo credit: © Shutterstock10. Test of TimeSomething else about us that’s important for you to know is that we’ve been in business a long time. Bein Harim was established in 1993, which lets you know we’re not a ‘fly-by-night’ company. We’re well known for our high-quality tours, all offered at affordable prices, and our years of hard work and listening to the customer mean we’ve built a well-deserved reputation. We work with small and large groups, classical Israel tour packages, Christian, Jewish and Muslim trips, Petra and Jordan tours,airport transfers,and ship to shore excursions. We can pick you up and drop you in a number of cities, including Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Herzliya, and Netanya, as well as Ben Gurion airport.And for those interested in traveling privately, if you book a private tour with us, we can customize it according to your exact requirements. If you want to visit a boutique vineyard in the Golan Heights, visit a chocolate-making workshop in Jerusalem or abseil down the side of the crater at Mitzpe Ramon, we can make it happen. We want to make sure our customers don’t just have a wonderful trip but go home telling other people about it. Brochures and websites are important but we think you can’t beat word of mouth. Dome of the Rock, Temple Mount, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © Shutterstock11. Don't Compromise on the Quality.To sum up, whether you’re a Christian pilgrim, a history buff, or a culture lover, we’ve got a tour that’s right for you. From theDead Sea and Masada Day Toursto ‘Petra from Eilat’ we can make sure you have a holiday you’ll remember for years to come. We operate a highly sophisticated booking system too, allowing you to book tours that are 100% guaranteed to depart, the moment you receive confirmation. And, as we’ve mentioned before, should any problems arise, we’re here for you night and day.So if you’re looking for a tour operator that has the passion, dedication, and experience you expect, why not take a look at some of our Israel and Jordan tour packages on offer? We’ll be happy to talk to you, either on the phone or by email, and answer all of your questions.Blooming almond in Israel.Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin

The Jewish calendar has a surprising number of holidays and they are observed today in Israel in a wide variety of ways. Whilst some of the population are more observant of religious tradition than others, there is a cultural element even to the most solemn holidays and, across Israel, you will find families and communities coming together to celebrate them in their own different ways.Pomegranates, traditional Rosh Hashanah fruit. Photo byDelfina IacubonUnsplashIn the Home, in Schools and in the Street….Celebrations!Holidays in Israel aren’t just celebrated in the synagogues either - in the home, families raise glasses to them, in schools children learn about them and in the streets, people dance to celebrate them. Such holidays are woven into the fabric of everyday life, and it’s worth remembering that many of them have been practiced for over 2,000 years! Each one has its own traditions and special quirks and here’s a short overview of what they are, when they happen, and why Israelis love them so much…Shabbat, the Day of RestThe Jewish Shabbat is celebrated weekly and always begins on a Friday night (when dusk falls). It is just as important as any other holy day in the festival calendar and, many argue, the cornerstone of Jewish tradition. Jews who observe Shabbat diligently will not use electricity, write, travel other than by foot, and will spend the day at prayer, eating celebratory meals (including the famous Friday night dinner), and resting.The Jewish Shabbat, as a tradition, is observed in homes across Israel (whether religious or not) with families coming together to catch up after their hectic weeks. If you are invited to one, you are sure to enjoy it.Traditional Shabbat Challah. Photo byEvgeni TcherkasskionUnsplashRosh Hashanah, the Jewish New YearRosh Hashanah (in Hebrew, literally, ‘Head of the Year’) celebrates the Jewish New Year and is a joyous festival. The festivities include prayers at synagogue (where a shofar - ram’s horn - is blown), a large meal (including challah bread and apples dipped in honey - to symbolize the hope for a sweet new year), and - in Israel - the exchanging of gifts. The ancient ceremony of ‘tashlich’ is carried out on the first afternoon - it is traditional to go to the sea, or any body of water, and throw breadcrumbs or pebbles in - this symbolizes the ‘casting away’ of one’s sins. For religious Jews, all of this is a chance for ‘spiritual renewal and great contemplation. Indeed, the days beginning with Rosh Hashanah and culminating in Yom Kippur (see below) are known in Hebrew as the ‘Yamim Noraim’ - the Days of Awe.Apples and honey, traditional Rosh Hashana treat. Photo byVladimir GladkovonUnsplashYom Kippur, ‘Day of Atonement'Yom Kippur is the holiest day of the year in the Jewish calendar and, in Israel, all life comes to a standstill. Every business and school is closed, airplanes do not take off or land, and the streets are deserted by cars. Religious Jews will fast for 25 hours (no food and no water), wear white, and spend large parts of the time in synagogue, praying for forgiveness from God for their personal sins. According to Jewish belief, this is the day in which God will pass judgment on every individual for the coming year - so it is seen as a chance to repent and ask for a chance of forgiveness. Less observant Israelis take the opportunity to enjoy the silence, in the streets and highways or simply sit at home, quietly, with a book. It really is astonishing to be in Israel at this time and watch the entire country grind to a halt.Yom Kippur in Tel Aviv. Photo byYoav AzizonUnsplashSukkot, ‘The Festival of Tabernacles’Another fun festival, especially for children, is Sukkot which follows Yom Kippur and lasts 7 days. Historically, it was one of the three pilgrimage festivals where the Israelites were commanded to travel to the Temple. Today, Israelis celebrate by building a succah - a temporary, free-standing structure with three walls which they decorate with palm leaves. It is traditional to eat meals inside and decorate the interior with the ‘four species’ (four different plants, mentioned in the Torah). These are a lulav, etrog, hadass, and aravah. At the synagogue, people walk around carrying these four plants and recite special prayers known as ‘Hoshanot’. In Israel, families often take vacation time and travel around the country there are many attractions, concerts, and activities for kids to enjoy.A man holding etrog. Photo byEsther WechsleronUnsplashSimchat Torah, Rejoicing of the TorahSimchat Torah immediately follows Sukkot and is a festival of unbridled joy. Jews dance around the synagogue holding Torah scrolls, to mark the reading cycle of these holy manuscripts, and, in Israel, it is common to see Israelis dancing in the street. This is a major religious holiday so, like Shabbat, the Jewish New Year, and Yom Kippur, religious Jews will not work, drive or watch TV.Hanukkah,‘Festival of Lights’Hanukkahis celebrated in the winter and commemorates the ‘miracle of the oil’ at the time of the Second Temple. It lasts for eight days and each night, candles are lit on a special candelabrum (similar to a menorah). Two special foods that are eaten are latkes and sufganiyot. Latkes are potato pancakes, fried and served either with apple sauce or sour cream. Hanukkiyah, the Hanukkah Menorah. Photo byElement5 DigitalonUnsplashSufganiyot are donuts with jelly inside (although, in the last few years, all kinds of creations have hit the bakeries in Israel, including those with creme patisserie and chocolate inside!) Children spin a ‘dreidel’ (a toy with Hebrew letters on the side) and it is traditional to give them ‘gelt’ (chocolate money) and small gifts. Truly, a holiday loved by kids and dreaded by adults for the weight that can be put on!Tu B'Shvat, the New Year for TreesThis holiday of tree planting for trees is fun for all the family but especially young children. Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael (KKL or the Jewish National Fund) was established in 1901 and to this day remains committed to developing the land by planting trees.Fun fact: Israel is one of the few nations in the world that began the 21st century with more trees than it had 100 years previously. KKL is committed to sustainable forest management and planting greenery in arid parts of the country. Tel Aviv’s mayor, Ron Huldai, is also a huge advocate of tree planting, and the boulevards, like Rothschild, are testimony to his commitment.Olive trees in Latrun.Photo credit: ©Dmitry MishinPurim, the Feast of LotsPurim commemorates the bravery of Esther who saved the Jews of Persia from being wiped out. It is a festival of enormous merriment in Israel and it is a great tradition both for children and adults to dress up and attend parties. Jews also attend synagogue in costume, where they read from the Book of Esther and shout and boo at the name of ‘Haman’ (Esther’s enemy) and drink a lot of wine! Attending an adloyada (carnival parade) is a wonderful tradition, as is the eating of ‘Hamantaschen’ cookies (triangle-shaped, to look like ears) filled with poppy seeds. Religious Jews also send ‘mishloach manot’ (baskets of food) to family, friends, and charities.Yom haAtzmaut, Independence DayYom haAtzmaut is a fantastic national holiday, loved by all Israelis, it celebrates Israel’s independence day. The evening kicks off with torch lighting in Jerusalem and fireworks displays all over the country. There are parties that continue late into the night and the following day, it’s a time-honored tradition to attend a barbeque and eat until you can’t move! If you’re at the shoreline at around midday, make sure to watch the flyovers that the Israeli Air Force carry out - their daring skills bring shouts of ‘oohs’ and ‘aahs’ from every child who dreams of becoming a pilot!Israeli flag over Masada Fortress. Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinThe Eight-Day Festival of PassoverThis joyous festival falls in the spring (March/April) in Israel and commemorates the exodus of the Jews from Israel, who fled slavery under the laws of the cruel Pharaoh. It is a real holiday of freedom and loved by everyone. It is traditional at this time of the year to hold a ‘seder’ (in Hebrew ‘Order’) where the ‘Haggadah’ book is read, recounting the story of the Jews flight, including the miraculous parting of the waves of the Red Sea. At Passover, bakeries in Israel close because it is a religious commandment to eat only ‘matzah’ (unleavened bread) for the holiday. This lets Jews remember that their ancestors fled Egypt in such haste that their bread had no time to rise. In the Haggadah, the matzah is called ‘the Bread of Affliction’ but the festival is also a reminder of liberty and the fact that, after 2,000 years, with the establishment of the State of Israel, the Jews became a free people in their own landThe Read Sea. Photo byFrancesco UngaroonUnsplashShavuotShavuot, ‘Festival of Weeks’, falls seven weeks after Passover. It is a pilgrimage holiday that marks the end of the spring harvest and also the giving of the Torah to Moses on Mount Sinai and is much loved in Israel. It is traditional to eat dairy produce (Israelis love to serve cheesecakes and blintzes) and wear white clothing, with flowers. Shavuot is celebrated in earnest on the kibbutz, with the tradition of ‘bringing forth the first fruit’. Historically, this was an opportunity for the farmers to display their achievements, after a year of hard work in the fields. Today, families take their children there to enjoy the produce, and youngsters often even have a chance to ride a tractor! Cheesecake, a traditional treat for Shavuot.Photo byChinh Le DuconUnsplashTu b’Av, the Israeli Version of Valentine's DayCelebrated as the ‘Day of Love’ this is the ‘kosher’ alternative to Valentine’s Day! In ancient times, young Jewish men and women would go out, dressed in white, and dance in the vineyards of Judea. Early zionist writers (such as Y.L Gordon and Mapu) tried to breathe new life into the tradition, but Tu B’Av didn’t really catch on again until the 1990s when merchants in Israel suddenly realized the economic benefits of selling flowers and chocolates!Where’s the Best Place to Spend Some of These Holidays?The other good question is where in Israel should you try to be over some of these holidays, in фorder to get the most of the experience? Well, at Purim, there are parties all over the country but don’t miss the opportunity to see an adloyada. These ‘carnivals’ are so much fun, with floats, music, and dancing. The two most popular take place in Holon (near Tel Aviv) and Sde Boker, in the Negev desert. If you’re in Israel over ‘the Day of Love’ then why not take a romantic escape to a guesthouse in the Galilee, wander in a nature reserve (Banias or Tel Dan), or simply watch the sun go down on Tel Aviv’s Mediterranean coastline, before enjoying a good meal?Banias Nature Reserve, Golan Heights.Photo credit: © ShutterstockShabbat, of course, comes around weekly, and, after a short Friday night service at the synagogue, is celebrated in the home. Israelis are very hospitable so it’s quite possible you’ll be invited as a guest to someone’s home for a meal.There is also aGet Shabbatprogram running where you can be paired with a host family, and we’d highly recommend it. Most of the families are traditional and observe Shabbat customs, so you’ll see blessings made over candles, wine and bread too and really get a feel for the whole experience.For Passover, you’ll feel the spirit of freedom everywhere but, of course, if you want to see more of the religious traditions then head to Jerusalem, and in particular the Western Wall, for the ‘Birkat Kohanim’ (Priestly Blessing). In terms of being a tourist, the only day you really will be limited is Yom Kippur, so if you’re visiting at this time make preparations in advance (or with your Israeli tour operator) for a ‘day off.’ In the meantime, as we say in Hebrew ‘ Chag Sameach’ or ‘Happy Holiday!’Jerusalem Day Celebration at the Western Wall, Jerusalem. Photo credit:©Western Wall Heritage Foundation

Whether you’re Christian, Jewish, Muslim, or any other faith, Israel’s holy sites should be part of your itinerary. There are sacred places spread across Israel, from Galilee in the north to Jericho in the south. This is where biblical events unfolded and where every place has some mystical, religious, or historical significance. So, plan your pilgrimage to the Promised Land today, and prepare to be awe-struck.The Sacred City of JerusalemThe best Christian tours in Israel always include Jerusalem, where Jesus spent the last week of his life and was crucified. If you have to pick just one destination in Israel, it should be Jerusalem. This incredible city is steeped in religious significance and thousands of years of history. When you tour Israel with a top-rated guide, you can see places you might not have found by yourselfThe Wailing Wall. Photo credit: © ShutterstockChurch of the Holy Sepulchre - Without a doubt, this is the top Christian attraction in Israel. This impressive 4th-century church holds the last Stations of the Cross, including Golgotha and Christ’s tomb.Via Dolorosa - Walking along the same route Jesus took, bearing his cross to Calvary, is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Follow the stone-paved lanes through Jerusalem’s Old City, pausing at the Stations of the Cross.Church of All Nations - You can’t miss the stunning golden mosaic on the facade of this church. Also known as the Basilica of Agony, this holy site is on the Mount of Olives, alongside the Garden of Gethsemane.Dormition Abbey - This impressive abbey and church, stands on Mount Zion, just outside the Old City walls. It is one of the largest and most beautiful Christian sites in Jerusalem.Garden Tomb - Protestant tradition holds that the rock-cut tomb in this serene garden is Christ’s burial site. Join a Jerusalem tour to visit the sacred tomb.Dominus Flevit - This is one of the most important Christian landmarks on the Mount of Olives. From here there are stunning views of the Old City, and it’s easy to imagine Jesus looking out over the city as he wept.Mount of Olives - The Mt. of Olives is a highlight for all visitors to Jerusalem, and it is home to several sacred sites. Tour the churches on the Mount of Olives, including the Pater Noster Church and the Chapel of the Ascension.The Lush Green Galilee’s Must-See Christian SitesTake a trip through the picturesque scenery of northern Israel, to the Sea of Galilee. This is where Jesus spent his ministry, going from village to village, teaching the word of God. It is also where he recruited his apostles and where Jesus performed unforgettable miracles like walking on water.Aerial view of Capernaum. Photo credit: © ShutterstockCapernaum -This ancient fishing village on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee is where Jesus based himself during his ministry. Discover the religious and historical treasures of Capernaum, starting with an ancient synagogue where Christ may have preached.Church of Annunciation - One of the most sacred Israel holy sites is the Church of Annunciation. It marks the spot where the Angel Gabriel told Mary of her future son, the Messiah. The church is in Nazareth, a popular stop on Christian Galilee tours.Jordan River Baptismal Site (Yardenit) - Christian pilgrims often stop at Yardenit, to be baptized in the Jordan River. Grab the opportunity to be baptized in the same river where John baptized Jesus.Church of the Multiplication - When you visit Tabgha, you can stand where Jesus shared the loaves and fish among the multitudes. It is easy to picture the Biblical scene that took place at this sacred site by the Sea of Galilee.Mount of Beatitudes - From here there are breathtaking views across the Sea of Galilee. The magnificent Church of the Beatitudes is rivaled only by the views from the mount.The Wedding Church - Learn how Jesus attended a wedding in Cana and turned water into wine. Israel Christian tours of the Galilee stop at the Wedding Church, which was built to commemorate the miracle that took place here.Magdala - Walk among the remains of this ancient city on the shore of the Sea of Galilee and be transported back in time to when Magdala was a Biblical fishing town and home to Mary Magdalene.Visit Bethlehem, Where Christianity Was BornKids all over the world learn about the night before Christmas and the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem. Join a guided tour of this iconic city, and see for yourself where Christ was born. With a Bethlehem tour, you can sit back and relax while your guide takes care of all the details and gets you safely, and conveniently to the most sacred places in Bethlehem.Basilica of theNativity.Photo credit: © ShutterstockNativity Church - Standing in front of the Holy Grotto where Christ was born, is an emotional moment for Christians. Travelers on to Israel say that the Nativity Church is one of their most memorable experiences.Shepherds’ Fields - Imagine those shepherds, 2,000 years ago, watching their sheep at night, on the first Christmas Eve in Israel. Christian tours pass by Shepherds’ Fields en route to Bethlehem.Milk Grotto -This unforgettable Israel holy site is where Mary nursed baby Jesus. The small, peaceful grotto, hollowed out from white stone, is the perfect place for a moment’s reflection.Church of St. Catherine - Discover the underground crypts beneath the church and see where Midnight Mass is celebrated on Christmas Eve.The church stands where Jesus had his apparition of St. Catherine and foresaw her future martyrdom.Manger Square - Close your eyes for a moment and be transported back 2,000 years to when the Holy family arrived at the Bethlehem inn in the middle of the night. Surrounding Manger Square are ancient churches.Jericho - A Hidden GemCheck out one of the oldest cities in Israel. In the well-known biblical story, Joshua marches his troops around the walls of Jericho until they fall. And Jesus passed through Jericho performing several miracles on the way. Jericho is a Palestinian city in the West Bank, near the Dead Sea. The quickest, safest, and easiest way to visit Jericho, is with a guided tour. Sign-up today for a tour of Jericho to make your trip stress-free.Qasr Al-Yehud.Photo credit: © ShutterstockQasr Al-Yehud - Not far from Jericho is the Jordan River and the site of Christ’s baptism by John. Take advantage of the opportunity to be baptized at this sacred location.If you’ve dreamed of seeing where Jesus lived, or if you’re just curious, now is the time to book an Israel Christian tour. Come and explore the biblical sites of the Promised Land.