Discover the Holy Lands: 10 Days of Spiritual Exploration in Israel and Jordan
Duration: 10 Days / Nights: 9 / Touring Days: 9
Are you ready to embark on a life-changing pilgrimage through the cradle of Christianity and the heart of ancient history? Voice of Cultures proudly presents our 10-day Holy Lands Tour, a spiritual odyssey that will immerse you in the sacred stories, ancient wonders, and rich cultures of Israel and Jordan.
Tour Highlights:
Jordan:
- Bethany beyond the Jordan: Stand where John baptized Jesus, and experience the powerful spiritual energy of this sacred site.
- Mount Nebo: Witness the breathtaking panorama that Moses beheld before his passing, overlooking the Promised Land.
- Madaba: Explore the “City of Mosaics” and admire intricate Byzantine-era mosaics.
- Petra: Journey into the rose-red city, an archaeological marvel carved into the cliffs of southern Jordan.
- Amman City Tour: Discover the modern capital of Jordan, blending history and contemporary culture.
- Wadi Rum: Venture into the otherworldly landscapes of this desert wilderness.
- Aqaba: Relax by the Red Sea, where ancient history meets pristine shores.
- Jerash: Step back in time in the well-preserved Roman city of Jerash.
- Kings Way: Follow the ancient trade route, encountering historical treasures along the way.
Northern Israel:
- Mount of Beatitudes: Contemplate the Sermon on the Mount at this peaceful hillside.
- Sea of Galilee Boat Ride: Sail on the tranquil waters of this biblical sea.
- Capernaum: Visit the town where Jesus performed many miracles.
- Mount Hermon: Explore the lush landscapes of the highest mountain in Israel.
- Nazareth Biblical Village: Journey back in time to the village of Jesus’ upbringing.
- Mount Carmel: Discover the significance of this biblical mountain.
- Caesarea Maritima: Explore the ruins of this ancient Roman port city.
- Jerusalem and its Surroundings: Dive deep into the heart of Jerusalem’s religious and historical landmarks.
Judaean Desert:
- Masada: Ascend this desert fortress and uncover its poignant history.
- Ein Gedi: Refresh yourself at the oasis where David once sought refuge.
- Qumran: Explore the archaeological site where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered.
- Dead Sea Float: Experience the buoyancy of the world’s saltiest sea.
- Wadi Qelt: Trek through this picturesque desert canyon.
Please Note: The itinerary is subject to change based on group pace, site availability, and unforeseen circumstances. Weather conditions may also impact site visitation.
Hotels: Nazareth, Jerusalem, Amman, Petra
Join us for a journey of faith, history, and cultural enrichment as we traverse the Holy Lands together. Your pilgrimage awaits, filled with spiritual growth, newfound knowledge, and unforgettable memories.
Voice of Cultures – Guiding Faith, Nurturing Spirits, and Creating Connections
10 Days / 9 Nights / 9 Days of Touring
TOURING SITES
Jordan
Bethany beyond the Jordan • Mount Nebo • Madaba • Petra • Amman City Tour • Wadi Rum • Aqaba • Jerash • Kings Way •
Northern Israel
Mount of Beatitudes • Church of St Peter’s Primacy • Sea of Galilee Boat Ride • Ancient Boat Museum • Capernaum • Mount Arbel • Mount Hermon • Caesarea Philippi • Mount of Precipice • Nazareth Biblical Village • Cana • Tel Megiddo • Mount Carmel • Caesarea Maritima • Joppa
Jerusalem and its Surrounding
Temple Mount • Dome of the Rock • Western Wall • Western Wall Tunnel Tour • Southern Steps • Jewish Quarter • Temple Institute • Yad Vashem • Model of Jerusalem • Shrine of the Book • Mount of Olives • Dominus Flevit • Church of all Nations • Garden of Gethsemane • Pool of Bethesda • St Anne’s Church • Via Dolorosa • Church of the Holy Sepulchure • City of David • Hezekiah’s Tunnel • Pool of Siloam • Mahane Yehuda • Bethlehem • Church of the Nativity • Shepherds’ Fields • Zedekiah’s Cave • Garden Tomb • Mount Scopus
Judaean Desert
Masada • Ein Gedi • Qumran • Dead Sea Float • Wadi Qelt
Note that the above itinerary is subject to change based on the pace of the group, availability and accessibility of sites due to unforeseen circumstances. Time and/or weather will also determine the coverage and visitation of the sites.
HOTELS:
- Nazareth . Jerusalem . Amman . Petra
FLIGHTS
Economy class group seats
COACH
9 days of touring in an air-conditioned deluxe vehicle
NIGHTS
9 nights stay in good local 3 & 4 star hotels
MEALS
We do all the shopping for you
9 x Breakfast
6 x Lunch
9 x Dinner
DAY 1 Departure / Arrival
Departure – Europe/or Est
After Arrival to Ben Gurion International Airport, We board our motor coach to Transfer to Hotel in Nazareth for dinner and Overnight
DAY 2 Mount Carmel / Megiddo / Nazareth Village/ Cana
After a good night of rest and a hearty breakfast, we’ll visit Megiddo and continue to the fields of Armageddon (Revelation 16:16), continuing northward along the Mediterranean Sea to Haifa and Mt. Carmel – the biblical site of Elijah’s contest with the prophets of Baal (1 Kings 18). Then we tour the Nazareth Village, a living presentation of the life, times and teaching of Jesus of Nazareth in a replica of ancient Nazareth and enjoy first century lunch. Then we’ll be touring Cana of Galilee, the site of the first Miracle (John 2) and head back to our hotel in Nazareth for dinner and overnight.
DAY 3 Tiberius / Sea of Galilee / Capernaum / Mount of Beatitudes
This will be an exciting day in Galilee. We will depart from the Roman hot springs resort city of Tiberius via boat ride across the Sea of Galilee to Capernaum (John 6:24) to visit the ancient ruins of the first century synagogue where Jesus preached (Matthew 4:13-17). Then on to the Mt. of Beatitudes where Jesus preached the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) we will then proceed to upper Galilee and the site of Peter’s confession (Matthew 16:16) at Caesarea Philippi and the present day Golan Heights where Israel, Lebanon and Syria come together. Then we continue to Mount Bental for a panoramic view of Golan and Syria before we return to our hotel for our last night in Nazareth.
DAY 4 Jerusalem / Mt. Scopus / Mt. of Olives / Gethsemane / City of David
After Breakfast, we head south to Jerusalem, where will begin with a drive to Mt. Scopus and the Mt. of Olives (Matthew 24:3) for a panoramic view of the Old City of Jerusalem. Walk along Hosanna Road to Gethsemane and visit the Church of All Nations, which stands on the Rock of Agony where Jesus was betrayed by Judas (Matthew 26: 26-57). Visit the City of David then the upper room before we head to our hotel in Jerusalem for Dinner and overnight.
DAY 5 Old City of Jerusalem / Via Dolorosa/ Yad Vashem Museum
Today begins with a walking tour of the Old City of Jerusalem. . Starting at the Western Wall (Wailing Wall), where the faithful Jews cry their petitions to God, we continue to the Temple Area of Mt. Moriah. Visit El Aksa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock that was built on the ancient site of Solomon’s Temple (Genesis 22:9-14) and over the Rock of Sacrifice where Abraham offered Isaac (Genesis 22) and the ceremonial sacrifice of animals took place. After this we walk along the Via Dolorosa Then continue through the Old City bazaars to the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. Then we will visit the southern steps and tour Yad Vashem museum
DAY 6 Masada / Dead Sea / Ein-Gedi / Jericho
This morning we drive via the Judean Desert to the Dead Sea – the lowest point on earth. A beautiful new road takes us south along the shores of the Dead Sea to Masada, a truly remarkable piece of history. Ascend to Masada by cable car to visit the magnificent ruins of the fortress where from 70-73 A.D. the Jewish defenders made the last stand of the Judean Revolt against Rome and where the remains of storehouses, cisterns and a sixth century Byzantine church are still on view. Return along the Dead Sea to Ein-Gedi an oasis in the desert with fresh water springs. Around 1000 B.C., En Gedi served as one of the main places of refuge for David as he fled from Saul. David “dwelt in strongholds at En Gedi” (1 Sam. 23:29). In a cave near here, David cut off the corner of Saul’s robe (1 Sam 24).The we head towards the Dead sea to spend a couple of hours swimming there (and lunch) and enjoy a unique experience of covering your body with the natural Mud. Before we return to Jerusalem, we visit Jericho for a commanding view of the mount of Temptation then to our hotel in Jerusalem for dinner and overnight.
DAY 7 Allenby /Baptism Site (Bethany) / Nebo / Petra
After breakfast, Transfer to Allenby bridge to continue your tour in Jordan. You will be met by our guide and driver, who will be holding a CHURCH/VOC TRAVEL sign for identification.
Transfer & check-in: Transfer in a modern air-conditioned bus to the Baptism site (it is a 15-minute drive).The Baptism Site is the excavations conducted at Bethany in Jordan have uncovered a I Century A.D. settlement with plastered pools and water systems that were used almost certainly for mass baptisms, and a V-VI Century Byzantine settlement with churches, a monastery, and other structures most probably catering to religious pilgrims. A survey made about the site has documented an ancient sacred pilgrimage route that linked Jerusalem, the Jordan River, Bethany “beyond the Jordan” (as it is clearly mentioned in the Gospels, to separate it from the “within the Jordan”, that is Jerusalem and the Holy Land), and Mount Nebo. John the Baptist started his mission in the land of modern Jordan, where Jesus was baptised and also ended his life. He was arrested by Herod Antipas, imprisoned in the fortress of Machareus (modern Mukawir, 65 km. south of Amman and overlooking the Dead Sea shores) and beheaded upon the request of Salome, Herod Antipas’ step daughter (Mark, 6:17-29). After your excursion continue to Mount Nebo it takes 45 minutes’ drive. Mount Nebo is the mountain where Moses was allowed to see the Holy Land and not allowed to enter it. Nowadays the mountain is a memorial site. Here is the “Church of Moses”, built by the first Christians. Ever since the first days of Christianity this mountain has been a holy place and a destination for pilgrimage. Like Moses, you can have a great view over Jordan, the Dead Sea and Israel. When the weather is clear, you should even be able to see Jerusalem, which is about 60 kilometers away. Proceed to Madaba it takes 15 minutes’ drive. Madaba the “City of Mosaics”, Madaba, perched on an archaeological site with more than 4000 years of history buried beneath it. The quality and quantity of mosaic flooring has made Madaba one of the most prominent cities in the world for mosaics. St. George’s Church houses the world famous mosaic floor depicting a large mosaic map of the holy land. Centrally located on this mosaic floor is a detailed map of Jerusalem as it was during the sixth century AD. At the Church of the Apostles, at the southern entrance of the city, is a mosaic floor attributed to the craftsman Salamanios, depicting the Sea, with the central figure of a woman encircled with a selection of creatures, vegetation and an inscription
Transfer to your hotel in Petra for overnight stay & dinner.
DAY 8 Petra / Amman
Enjoy your breakfast at your hotel.
Meet your guide at the lobby of your hotel and walk to Petra’s visitor’s Centre to visit the archaeological site in Petra. Upon arrival, enjoy a full day walk around the rosy city of Petra. You will start your walk with an optional horse ride from the main gate of Petra to the entrance of the old city. Then walk on foot along the “Siq “to visit the rose-red city of Petra. The ancient city of Petra was built from 800 BC to 100 AD by Nabatean Arabs. In this era Petra was a fortress, carved out of craggy rocks in an area, which was virtually inaccessible. In the first and second century, after the Romans took over, the city reached the peak of its fame. Petra covers an area of about 100 square km, where over 800 monuments can be found. When shipping slowly displaced caravan routes, the city’s importance gradually dwindled; it fell into disuse and was lost to the world until 1812, when it was re-discovered by the Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burkhart. Nowadays Petra is Jordan’s number 1 tourist attraction, known as the “rose-red city half as old as time”. The Khazneh (the Treasury), featured in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.
Walk back to the main gate of Petra and board your bus to transfer to your hotel in Amman an overnight stay & dinner.
DAY 9 Amman / Jerash
After breakfast check out of your hotel, your luggage will be stored in your vehicle and drive to Down town of Amman for Panoramic City Tour Proceed to close second to Petra on the list of favorite destinations in Jordan, the ancient city of Jerash boasts an unbroken chain of human occupation dating back more than 6500 years. The city’s golden age came under Roman rule and the site is now generally acknowledged to be one of the best preserved Roman provincial towns in the world. It was hidden for centuries in sand before being excavated and restored over the past 70 years.
Today you can walk beneath the imposing south gate and then make your way up the ‘Street of Columns’ – the Roman Cardo – running 600 meters north from the Oval Plaza. As you step over the tracks of chariot wheels, still visible in the paving stones, imagine prosperous citizens window-shopping beneath a covered sidewalk. Lunch at Green Valley Restaurant. Then you will be transferred to Amman for an overnight stay & Dinner
DAY 10 Airport / Departure – Arrive Home
Transfer to Queen Alia International Airport for departure flight # or cross back to Israel to catch the flight from Tel Aviv!
DATES
Request Desired Travel Date While Booking. We have new tour every month.
Tour Price
The tour price is based on a minimum number of persons agreed on contract per bus.
Note that the tour price is based on twin-sharing and it includes economy class flight ticket on group seats.
Trip Preparation
It is advisable you plan ahead for your trip to go a lot smoother and avoid hiccups. A few weeks earlier, you should make a list of things you would b needing throughout the journey. Expectedly, your documents such as passports, visas and personal ID should be up-to-date with their available photocopies packed separately. Medications as well are very important especially when travelling outside the country. An alarm clock is also a valuable addition. Smaller bags and purses are recommended for entry into some museums due to security reasons. Also, cameras shouldn’t be placed in your check luggage and bottles should be placed in Ziploc bags in case of leaks due to airplane pressure.
Day of Departure – Arrive On Time
Arriving on time for check in at the airport is strongly advised. Depending on the airline and destination, you may be required to check in 1-3 hours before departure time. Due to special checks, security procedures may take longer than usual.
Check-in Procedure
If your flight itinerary displays a flight as “Operated By” another carrier, you should check-in at the desk of the “Operated By” airline. When you arrive at the airport, check the airport monitors for updated check-in desk listings.
Check-in with your E-ticket, your passport and flight number. The boarding passes will be printed and your luggage will be tagged.
Airline tickets are electronic and all you need to check-in with your passport and flight number. Please bring a copy of the Passenger Information Sheet, which contains your flight and hotel information.
Once you’ve checked in and received your boarding passes and luggage claim tickets proceed directly to the security check. Security lines are often backed up and can take time to get through.
You will be responsible for a missing boarding pass and for the cost of replacing it. Keep your boarding passes until you return home in case of lost luggage or mileage credits.
Check the airline has properly tagged the luggage with the correct destination city.
Frequent Flyer Instruction
Check-in at the ticket counter, show your frequent flyer account number.
Passengers are responsible to contact their airline directly regarding mileage eligibility and accrual.
Airline frequent flier programs determine whether to award miles in part or total based on their own rules which are updated frequently.
Some discounted or promotional airfares as well as some code-share flights are not eligible for mileage accrual.
Some private airfares are not eligible for mileage or may qualify for reduced mileage, even if the same airline class of service is eligible for full mileage when sold as an “Instant Purchase” published airfare. Not all published airfares are eligible for mileage.
To open an account, fill an application form. It can be done in advance by contacting the airline’s frequent flyer program.
Seating Plan Criteria
Group seating is done alphabetically and we can’t guarantee specific airline seat assignments.
When you check in at the airport, you can check your seat assignment and request changes at that time if needed.
You may change seats on the plane with another tour member if you are separated from your traveling companion.
Baggage Allowance and Restrictions
You may bring one piece of checked luggage (50 lb. maximum), one carry on and one personal item (purse, computer bag, backpack) per person. These items are included in the tour cost. No additional bags are allowed due to limited space on the tour buses.
Print full name and address on all luggage tags (It is advisable to write friend’ or office address on the tag).
Extra tags/labels for your carry-on bag or handbag will be available at the airport.
Keep a card or paper with your name and address on it inside the travel luggage.
Check carefully your piece luggage before taking from the carousel. In case of missing travel luggage, follow the “Lost Luggage” procedure.
Take your luggage from the carousel, through customs, and to the bus. At departure, take your luggage from the bus through security check-in. (It is really helpful to have wheels on your luggage).
Keep your Carry-on (handbag) with you. (it is your responsibility to take care of it)
Check luggage instruction on your airline’s website
Most of the airlines will allow you to check-in luggage which cannot exceed 60 inches (height + width + length) and 50 pounds.
Additional fees will be charged for overweight or oversized luggage.
Carry-on luggage (handbag) must not exceed 36 inches (height + width + length) and must fit in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you.
Allowed liquid in carry-on or handbag is 3.4 ounces (100ml) for gels, aerosols, creams, and pastes per person must be packed in a clear plastic zip-lock bag for screening.
Missed Flights
In the event that you miss your flight which departs as scheduled, for any reason, your airline will consider you a “no-show” and may resell your seat(s) to other customers. This will also result in the cancellation of any later flights in your itinerary. Similarly, if you voluntarily decide not to use any of the flights on your itinerary; the airline will consider you a “no show” and cancel remaining flights on your itinerary. In this case, please contact your airline immediately for assistance in getting you to your destination. Missed flights are typically fully non-refundable and you may be required to purchase new flights from the airline at your own expense. Once your alternative arrangements have been confirmed, please contact VOC Travel with your new flight details.
Lost Luggage
If your luggage is lost or damaged by the airlines, a baggage claim form must be filed with the carrier before leaving the airport. Any cost to retrieve luggage will be your responsibility and you should retain receipts to submit to your insurance provider. You may be required to return to an airport to retrieve your luggage personally.
Security Check Points Info
Prepare all travel documents and ID in advance; place all necessary documents in your handbag or purse, not in the luggage.
Prepare to open all luggage and bags for inspection at check-in. All packages may be opened including gifts.
Prepare yourself for a body check by a metal detector, body scan, or by physical means if necessary.
Place pens, keys, cell phones, badges, etc., in your carry-on before the security check to avoid the chance of setting off the alarm.
Place all fluids (under 3-ounce bottles) in a quart-sized plastic zip-lock bag.
Please do not say or do anything during security checks that may cause a delay.
Do not make jokes about hijacks or bombs. Airline and security personnel take these things very seriously.
Do not accept packages or gifts unless you have inspected the contents.
You may be questioned before you actually check-in. Please just answer their questions accordingly.
Travel Insurance Policy
Voice of Cultures recommends that you purchase a travel protection plan to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. For your convenience, we offer travel protection through Travelex Insurance Services. For more information on the available plans or to enroll, go to https://www.travelexinsurance.com/index.aspx?location=05-1540&go=bp or contact Travelex Insurance Services at 800-228-9792 and reference location number 05-1540.
Travel Insurance is underwritten by, Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company, NAIC #22276. 55Y
Arrival Procedures inside the Airport
After landing, follow the signs to passport control and present your passport.
After exiting passport control, look for a sign “VOC Travel” or the name of your group. You will be taken through the “Nothing to Declare” exit and to your bus.
Luggage carts are freely available.
In case you are separated from your group or you cannot find your tour leader, exit through customs and the terminal (with your luggage) to the bus area. If you are lost, please ask an airport employee (wearing badges) for assistance. Emergency contact numbers are also printed on your Passenger Information Sheet.
Cancellation Criteria
Trip cancellation due to an emergency or serious illness is non-refundable.
Documents Required for Foreign Nationals
Contact the Embassy or Consulate of each country you will be visiting to get specific travel instructions and visa requirements.
Travel with a non-U.S passport with a valid Green card, Visa or multiple entry Visa that is valid for at least six months after your return date..
if you have any questions, please contact the Consulate of your country.
Passport Safety and Validity Tips
Make two copies of your passport picture page. Leave one copy with a friend and keep one with you (separate from your passport). If you lose your passport, it is easier to obtain a new passport if you have this copy.
Your passport must be valid up to six months after your return date. For example, if your trip returns April 1st, you will need to make sure that your passport does not expire until after October 1st of that year.
Normal process for a new or renewal passport is usually six to eight weeks.
Checking into a Hotel
You will be given a key and room number stickers for your luggage. Take your “carry-on” or handbag to the room and your luggage will be delivered by the hotel staff.
Hotel Service Information
Any additional hotel services such as room service, laundry service, outside phone calls, or internet usage, you will be billed accordingly.
Trip pays all taxes and tips, as well as all breakfasts served in the hotel dining rooms.
Some hotels provide a clothesline for drying laundry if you wish to wash them in the sink or bathtub. You need your own detergent.
Most hotels offer a professional laundry service. Check the price at the front desk.
Roommate Etiquette Tips & Tricks
If you are sharing a room with someone you do not know, there are a few tips that will make your trip more enjoyable.
In case of one key of the room, always leave it at the front desk.
If you wake up early, do not disturb your roommate.
Do not smoke in the room
Wi-Fi Access
Wi-Fi access has improved. Free or inexpensive Wi-Fi internet is accessible at coffee shops, airports, restaurants, libraries and on some trains and buses. There will be Wi-Fi access in our hotels, but it may involve a fee, determined by that property. Signal strength is subject to local conditions and not guaranteed. Please note that Wi-Fi can be extremely slow, unreliable and sometimes nonexistent in developing countries or, on moving conveyances such as buses. We will also have Wi-Fi access on our tour buses at no charge.
Tips for Personal Electronics Devices & Theft Prevention (check/edit )
Bring a round adapter to plug into the wall outlet. Most electronics, such as laptops and cell phones, are dual voltage and check the voltage requirements for all electronic devices
Never leave electronic equipment unattended in your hotel room.
Keep laptops, tablets, phones, cameras, etc.., with you or in the hotel room safe.
Before taking the pictures of locals or someone’s animal, please ask for it. Please be courteous and cautious.
Bring a large storage card to accommodate all your photos and movies for your camera.
Don’t forget your electrical chargers and bring an extra charger (in case). Carry a portable external battery pack for emergencies.
Carry an electrical converter; Israel & Jordan use 220 volts instead of 110.
Food & Eatery
Breakfast and dinner are served daily, as well as some lunches (Check your brochure to see what meals are included).
Be sure to bring local currency or a credit card when dining out at smaller eatery.
Coffee and juices are usually included with breakfast and dinner. Soft drinks are usually not included with any meals.
Check the country’s tipping policy if you plan to eat out at a restaurant.
Some cultural advice about the food, you cannot order milk or any dairy products with meat or poultry in Israel – it is not “kosher” and as a rule will not be served, but you food cultures is different in Jordan you can order dairy with meat but few place serve pork.
Most tap water is considered safe in countries like Israel and Jordan to drink. To be safe, bottled water is available everywhere. Most bus drivers stock water on the bus which you can purchase.
Making Telephone Calls from One Country to Another
When dialing a number from one country to another, you should proceed as follows: dial your country’s Exit Code (often indicated with a “+” sign), then the destination Country Code, then the Phone Number. For most countries, the exit code is 00. Exceptions include the USA and Canada (011), please consult with the local telephone company. If you are dialing from a mobile phone, you can enter a “+” instead of the international Exit Code (011, 001, 0011 or 00) by pressing and holding the 0 key. If the international number you wish to call starts with a 0 (zero), you must drop this starting digit when dialing the number.
Example:
To dial the following number in Germany (as listed on your voucher): +(49) 0555-555
From USA or your US cell phone: 011-49-555-555
From another country in Europe: 00-49-555-555
Locally within the same country: 0555-555
Check with your cell phone provider and get the details! Most International Services are still very expensive. Roaming charges are higher, will be charged for all downloads and incoming call.
Wi-Fi cards can be rented in advance. Some hotels provide free Wi-Fi or will have it available for purchase.
It is better to switch your phone to Airplane Mode and turn Data Roaming off. You will be able to use the hotel Wi-Fi without additional charges.
You can buy phone cards at the airport and at most hotel gift shops
Time Zone Difference
Israel & Jordan is seven hours ahead of New York and ten hours ahead of California.
Climate and Weather Tips
Israel – Spring: 60°F-85°F, Summer: 70°F-90°F, Autumn: 60°F-80°F, Winter: 45°F-70°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather coat. In the heat of summer, bring sunscreen and a hat. Bring a bathing suit for tours visiting the Dead Sea. Make sure to bring appropriate attire for religious sites (pants, shorts or skirts past the knee and no sleeveless shirts or blouses).
Jordan – Spring: 60°F-85°F; Summer: 70°F-90°F; Autumn: 60°F-80°F; Winter: 45°F-70°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather coat. In the heat of summer, bring sunscreen and a hat. Some religious sites do not allow shorts or sleeveless shirts.
Useful Tips to Visit touristic Places
Build good stamina for walking. During the trip, you need to walk a lot.
To visit Biblical sites or touristic places, check on internet or references in Bible. Bring pocket size Bible.
Carry a bag pack to put your belongings and souvenirs. A spot remover and sewing kit can be handy.
Languages
Israel – Hebrew and Arabic are the local languages. English is generally spoken in tourist areas.
Jordan – Arabic is the local language. Limited English is generally spoken in tourist areas.
Always be kind and courteous to local people. Remember you are representing your country.
A firm handshake is obligatory upon meeting and departing. Never remain seated when shaking a standing person’s hand.
Police wear blue uniforms and usually speak English.
Sunni Islam is the dominant religion in Jordan. Muslims make up about 92% of the country’s population.
Israeli religiosity ranges from the Ultra-Orthodox to the complete atheist.
Avoid criticizing the people, history, country, the food, or the customs. If you have a problem, please talk to your guide.
Jordan is an Islamic country. Visitors should observe normal courtesies. Shaking hands is a standard form of greeting. Women should dress modestly, especially in rural areas where traditional mores are more strictly followed. Beachwear should be confined to the beach and poolside. Alcohol cannot be purchased at stores during the month of Ramadan, though many hotels still serve during this period.
Tipping & Gratuities Tips
All tips (bell boys, front desk staff, housekeeping, restaurants, drivers and guides) are included.
Sometimes, tour members will try to collect some money on the bus to give to the driver and guide, to show their appreciation. We, therefore, Suggest that no one start or contribute to such a collection. If you personally want to bless them, feel free to do so.
Useful Things to Remember
In some countries, toilets are typically identified as the “WC” and you may be expected to pay a small amount to use.
If you decide to take a taxi, make sure you agree in advance on the fare per person or for all passengers. You will need local currency for most taxis.
If someone plans on being baptized in the Jordan River, bring a change of clothes or bathing suit. A complimentary towel will be provided to dry off.
Useful Things to Keep in Mind
Keep your passport with you all times. Misplacing or losing your passport can result in serious delays and extra costs for you.
Keep one copy of your passport in your luggage.
Never leave valuables (jewelry, cash, iPods, laptops, cameras, electronics, etc.) in your hotel room, even if they are locked in your luggage.
Keep all the important documents and valuable in the safe of the hotel.
Always check the safe before checking out of the hotel.
Turn off all cell phones while at the sites or keep it on silent.
While going on the trip, always stay with your group. Be aware of where they are going. Though you may discover something interesting to investigate, it could cause you to lag behind and become lost.
Tell someone in the group (preferably your guide or group leader) if you are staying at the hotel.
If you are planning to go out for hours always tell someone else in your group where you are going and when you intend to return.
Don’t carry any valuable thing.
No smoking on the bus or in your hotel rooms.
Stay with the group and avoid the prohibited area.
Dress properly all times, because of the cultural difference.
Don’t leave possessions (backpacks, purses, etc.) anywhere.
Avoid any object that does not seem to have an owner.
Don’t accept gifts from a stranger.
Be careful of locals asking you to follow them to a store or an attraction.
Avoid friendly embraces from strangers. Beware of pickpockets.
Keep your wallet in your front pants pocket or zippered purse. It is better to separate your cash so that it is not obvious to on-lookers.
Currency in Use Israel – The Shekel is the currency of Israel. Also, many vendors will accept payment in U.S. dollars.
Why Select Us
At Voice of Cultures, we are dedicated to going the extra mile just to ensure our clients get the best travel options that meet their unique needs and expectations. Our aim is to deliver a rich biblical & cultural experience that is exhilarating and mind-blowing for everyone involved. We make vacations easy while giving you premium treatment with attention to the littlest details. This includes great communication, personalized services, prompt follow-ups, unbeatable customer service and genuine passion to create value. You will surely benefit from our vast travel and tour expertise that guarantees life-altering experiences. We have an unflinching commitment to ensuring service excellence, enriching programs and innovative trips with unique value at competitive rates. Some of the reasons to travel with us are:
It’s all about YOU
Your satisfaction is very important to us and we are here to look after you. We always strive to give you a flawless service that puts you first. We deliver on all our promises and always put you and your brand first in all we do.
Fun Guide
We distinguish ourselves with our strong commitment to inspire lasting memories. We take this into account by carefully selecting the perfect guide to make your trip worthwhile and fun.
Our Values
Excellence
We are dedicated to preparing the right tour that suits our clients with the right guide while paying attention to every detail.
Responsibility
We are committed to fulfilling the needs of our clients through our dedication to maximizing the company’s resources.
Loyalty
We are reliable and trustworthy in all our relationships and this serves as our hallmark.
Respect
We encourage peace, harmony and warmth between people while considering human diversity in all our dealings.
Readiness
We are devoted, prompt, proactive and careful in achieving our mission and vision.
Personalized Itinerary
We are committed to promoting rich cultural experiences, offering comprehensive solutions that satisfy our clients’ needs, while seeking to exceed their expectations, within the framework of quality and empathy.
