Any tour travels at the rate of the least interested person. If someone comes along “for a holiday,” and complains about the food or accommodations, is the last one on the bus every day, gripes about not enough shopping time, etc., the whole tour suffers. A visit to Israel ought to be seen as a “working” holiday, designed for those who want to learn more of the Bible and its Author on location.
What makes for a good tour? Visiting the Christian workers in Israel is a real encouragement to them–and you’ll be the one encouraged! Going prepared to witness warmly, discreetly, but faithfully should be seen as both a privilege and responsibility. We have found unlimited opportunities.
Ask if the tour you are considering is going to visit non-biblical sites–the so-called traditional places (meaning those recognized by various religious institutions) like the Via Dolorosa, the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, etc. I think visiting such places is not only unprofitable but robs you of the time to see many authentic sites. If you want to see them, you’re welcome to them. Oh, don’t forget to see Jesus’ footprint in the rock when He “pushed off” at His ascension!
Make sure you find out what the cost of your tour will cover. Usually the price is in US dollars per person, double occupancy. A single room supplement will be extra. Also some prices do not include some or all taxes and/or tips or personal items.
How do you get ready for a trip like this? Make sure you have a valid passport. No visas are required for Canadian or American citizens at this time.
I suggest preparing for your tour by reading the sections of the Bible that are set in the Land: Genesis 12-38; Joshua-Ezra; Matthew or Luke; Acts 1-12. This covers 90-95% of the events in Israel. As you do this, make notes in a small loose-leaf notebook. Each page will have a separate listing for a city, mountain, valley, river, etc.
For example, beginning in Genesis 12, Abram enters the Land and builds his first altar at Sichem (Shechem). Write SHECHEM at the top of the page, under which leave room for a short description, and then begin your list of events which occurred there. It should look something like this:
SHECHEM (meaning “shoulder”); also Sichem. In a valley between Mounts Ebal and Gerizim in the Samaritan Hills. Often a place of decision for the children of Israel.
1. Abram’s first camping spot in the Land; built his first altar where “the Lord appeared unto” him (Gen. 12).
So you will continue. This is very helpful because our Bible knowledge is arranged chronologically, not geographically. This study will bring the events together at each site and prepare you to visit. You will have no time there, with listening to the guide, taking pictures, keeping notes of your shots (essential!) and trying to absorb the sights.
When the time gets closer, you will want to buy your film here (much cheaper than over there)–I use about a roll per day. You will want to pack casual clothes (some sites will not allow shorts or sleeveless tops), comfy walking shoes, Bible, camera, sunglasses, a hat, bathing suit, and other usual provisions. But remember the traveler’s rule of thumb: bring half the clothes you think you’ll need– and twice the money!
What about safety? Of course there are no guarantees–here or there. But everything is done to look after tourists. Of course there are areas of your town you would not visit late at night either. You will be joining thousands of other tourists there. The trouble spots–the Gaza Strip and the West Bank–are not on most itineraries, and much of the news, as in this country, is sensationalized anyway.
It will be impossible to leave the Land behind; you will bring it home with you! In fact, your tour through the Book really begins when you get back.