Israel Trip
Israel is a land of wonder and history, and Israel in March is absolutely beautiful. Come with us on the trip of a lifetime as we explore the land of the Patriarchs, visit the sites and hear the sounds of the Old Testament, and walk where Jesus walked in Galillee and Jerusalem.
Depart DFW Airport for the trip of a lifetime! Arrival in Israel. Transfer to the hotel. (Hotel: Avia Hotel) The adventure begins as we step foot into the amphitheater at Caesarea. This spectacular theater was used 2,000 years ago and is still used today. Here we will learn about Paul’s trial before Agrippa, Peter’s work with Cornelius, and more. The ancient city of Caesarea is filled with history from the days of Herod through the days of the Crusaders to modern times. From Caesarea, we will travel through Druze villages to the top of Mt. Carmel, where the unbelievable overlook onto the Valley of Jezreel will be the perfect setting to be reminded of the showdown with Elijah and the Prophets of Baal. Our final site of the day will be Megiddo, from which the “Valley of Armageddon” is named. This city is also rich in history, from days before the conquest of Joshua and throughout history until today, and into the future at the battle to end all battles. The day will close as we travel to the Sea of Galilee for a great night of rest. (Hotel: En Gev hotel) There is no better way to begin our journey around Galilee than with a boat ride on the sea. This will certainly be a highlight of the trip as we “float where Jesus walked!” Our time of worship on the Sea of Galilee will be remembered forever. After the boat ride, we will see the ancient boat at Ginosar, and see first-hand how the disciples must have travelled. Today we will also visit Capernaum, the “headquarters” of Jesus’ ministry, and will literally stand in the synagogue in which Jesus taught, performed miracles, and astonished the crowd. The overlook of the sea from the Mount of Beatitudes will be beautiful. Lunch today will be St. Peter’s Fish…always a memorable experience. (Hotel: En Gev hotel) No trip to Israel would be complete without a day in the Golan Heights. You will not only enjoy the beauty of this area, with its beautiful valleys, lush vegetation, and towering Mt. Hermon, but you’ll enjoy the history of the area as well. Today we will learn about the modern needs of Israel as we come to the edge of her borders and peer into Lebanon and Syria. In addition, we will have the joy of a tour of Caesarea Philippi, a site of ancient pagan shrines where Jesus asked, “Who do you say that I am?” As a special expedition, we will also stop at Nimrod’s Fortress, the largest Crusader castle in Israel. (Hotel: Ohalo Manner) Today we leave the Galilee area and travel south, leaving the green hills of Galilee and entering the desert hills of Judea. Our first stop will be Ein-Herod, better known as “Gideon’s Spring.” Here we will see the Hill of Moreh where the Philistines camped against Gideon’s army, selected at the spring. Next we will travel to the impressive ruins of Bet Shean, the most spectacular Roman-era city in Israel. You’ll be amazed with the amazing structure found at this city of the Decapolis which was also the city where King Saul’s dead body was hung on the gates. Continuing our journey south, we will visit Qumran, the site of the Dead Sea Scroll discovery and the home of the first century community of the Essenes. We will then go south to a great time of relaxation in the Dead Sea from the comfort of our Dead Sea hotel. (Hotel: Prima Oasis) We begin our day with a journey along the Dead Sea, making our first stop at Masada. You may not know the story of Masada today, but after this experience, you’ll never forget it. One of the most inspiring stories of all history, the “never again” cry of Masada will come alive as we hear the story on Masada itself. The tram ride is spectacular and the sites are awe-inspiring. From Masada, we will travel along the Dead Sea to Ein Gedi, the oasis in the desert. It was at Ein Gedi that David had the opportunity to kill Saul, but would not touch “God’s anointed.” Here we have the opportunity to see beautiful waterfalls as well as exotic wildlife. After a wonderful day in the Judean wilderness, we will make our way up to Jerusalem, where we will experience our unforgettable first steps in the Holy City. (Hotel: Prima Royale) Today is our Old City day in Jerusalem. We will visit the western Wall, tour the Western Wall tunnels, and stand on the southern steps of Temple Mount. Hezekiah’s tunnel and the newly discovered ruins of David’s palace will also be on today’s tour, and will give you a fresh understanding of Old Testament history. Walking along the streets of Jerusalem, you’ll see the Old City in its ancient charm, and experience the modern miracle of the bones coming to life. (Hotel: Prima Royale) We begin our last day of touring at the top of the Mount of Olives, where we will see another spectacular view of Jerusalem. Working our way down, we’ll stop along the way for some teaching before making our way to the Garden of Gethsemane at the foot of the mount. From here, we’ll make our way to the Pool of Bethesda and the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. From here, we will go to the Garden Tomb, for a celebration of the resurrection. Departing the Old City, we journey to Bethlehem, where we will conclude our trip with Christmas carols in the Shepherd’s fields! (Hotel: Prima Royale) Today, we journey home. It’s a long flight home, but will be filled with great joy and life-long memories. Dr. Bob Pearle is the Senior Pastor of the Birchman Baptist Church in Fort Worth, TX, a position he has held since 1998. He is the author of The Vanishing Church and is a respected leader among Baptists in Texas.Bob is known for strong Bible teaching, seasoned pastoral leadership, and a kind and calm demeanor.He and Deborah will be excellent hosts on this unforgettable tour of Israel. Included in the price:- Airfare from DFW
- Transfer from airport to hotel on arrival day and from hotel to the airport on departure day
- 8 days with luxurious motor coach and guiding services
- Assistance at the airport upon arrival and departure
- Accommodation on HB basis (breakfast and dinner at the hotel).
- Daily Lunches, including one fish lunch
- Unlimited mineral water supply on the bus
- Porterage
- Entrance fees to all sites
- Tip for guide and driver
- Travel Insurance (See Below)
- Expense of private nature
- You can decline insurance with an acknowledgement that refunds are not available if the trip is cancelled after January 7, 2017.
- You can purchase your own travel insurance.
- You can purchase our Standard Coverage insurance for $250. See below for benefits.
- You can purchase our “Cancel for any Reason” coverage for $370. See below for benefits.