PACING: Base Program: 3 nights in Tel Aviv, Israel; 3 nights in Tiberias, Sea of Galilee, Israel; 2 nights in Dead Sea, Israel; 5 nights in Jerusalem, Israel. Optional pre-extension: 4 nights in Haifa. Overnight flight from home city to Tel Aviv on first night of trip. On Day 15, return flight to the U.S. departs Tel Aviv at approximately 5:00 am, which requires a very early morning motorcoach transfer from the Jerusalem hotel to the Tel Aviv airport.
The pace of this tour can be strenuous, and is not appropriate for individuals with walking difficulties. To fully enjoy this tour, passengers must be in good physical condition, as you will be walking throughout historical sites and on uneven surfaces.
PHYSICAL ACTIVITY: Most sightseeing done on air-conditioned coaches with guides. Moderate to heavy walking at some sightseeing stops. Many historical sites will require walking, sometimes on uneven ground or cobblestone streets. Expect high temperatures depending upon the departure date and the location. You should be active and in good health to experience this trip. Please refer to Vantage’s wheelchair and handicapped traveller policy.
CULTURAL FOCUS: Israel’s orientation is Western, but it is very much part of the Middle East. Its character is predominantly Jewish, however, one in five Israelis are either Muslim, Christian, or Druze. Hebrew dominates, but the Arab and Druze communities speak Arabic, and there are many native Russian speakers. English is widely spoken, sometimes fluently. Israel is religiously conservative, especially in Jerusalem.
SPECIAL FACTORS: Temperatures are at their highest in the summer months, and the country can experience heavy rainfall during the winter months.
