Dear Inspiration Passenger,
We’re so excited you will be traveling with us on The Urban Alternative Israel trip! Below you will find information regarding your trip. It is important to carefully read all the attached information. If you have any questions, please call our office at 855 448 7226 (U.S. and Canada only) or +1 559 224 5427 (International) Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Pacific time.
If you’re already thinking about what to bring on your upcoming Christian tour to Israel, we’ve provided the checklist and information below to help you pack for your exceptional travel experience. Spring and fall in Israel is beautiful and typically in the 80s, while summers are hot and sometimes a bit humid.
Make certain your suitcase closes and fastens securely. Mark your luggage and carry-on bag clearly with your name and address so you will be able to distinguish them easily. Your personal luggage tags can be used for this purpose or you may use paper tags available at airline check-in counters. We recommend that you put identification information (name, address and phone number) INSIDE your luggage in case the luggage tags on the outside are lost in transit. It is also suggested that you keep your essential toiletries and a one day change of clothes with you in your carry-on. Do not pack your passport or travel documents in your luggage. It is suggested that you keep a color copy of the information page of your passport inside your luggage in the event that your passport is lost.
The Holy Land often tops the list of Christian travel destinations. Despite this area’s historical, cultural, and spiritual significance, many would-be visitors are concerned about the safety of travel in and around Israel. How does the tension resulting from diverse religious beliefs, different nationalities, overlapping claims of ownership at holy sites, and armed conflict impact Inspiration’s tours in the area?
First, it should be stated that the success of our company is built on a number of things, from first-class itineraries to knowledgeable tour operators to dedicated service. But more important than any of these things is the safety and security of our groups. We will absolutely not send anyone—whether they are employees, partners, or travelers in our care—into an unsafe situation.
Over the last three decades, Inspiration has taken more than 20,000 travelers to Israel without incident. We have never sent passengers into an area where we thought they might be less than absolutely safe. When rare occasions of questionable safety have occurred, we have cancelled tours altogether and issued complete refunds. The last time this happened was in 2000, at the beginning of the Second Intifada—a period of Israeli-Palestinian conflict. While we view a cancellation as a last resort, we will not hesitate to do so if necessary.
That said, we work very hard not to be reactionary when it comes to travel in Israel, because the situation there is a complex one. As with every country we visit, we work closely with the U.S. Department of State and local governments to monitor events, anticipate problems before they occur, and adjust our tour schedules and routes when necessary. We have found, however, that the distance between continents makes it necessary for us to rely more on the instant, on-the-ground information provided by our trusted network of friends, partners, and suppliers in Israel. The personal contact of these relationships gives us a more accurate pulse on the area. (As an example, this 2012 Israel travel update from Sar-El, one of Inspiration’s travel suppliers, describes a much different experience in Jerusalem than reported in online media sources.)
According to the State Department, “Personal safety conditions in major metropolitan areas, including Tel Aviv and Haifa and their surrounding regions, are comparable to or better than those in other major global cities.” In fact, crime statistics show that a tourist is more likely to run into trouble in almost any major U.S. city—Chicago, New York, Atlanta—than in Israel. Traveling to the Holy Land is no less safe than traveling in the United States or any other global metropolitan area.
Upon arriving in the Holy Land, you’ll notice a number of soldiers in public places. Don’t let the military presence give you the wrong impression. In Israel, the military also serves alongside the local police. Every citizen must enlist and serve—men for three years and women for two—and Israeli soldiers are required to keep their weapons with them at all times, even when off duty. This means you should not be surprised to stand outside a store, for instance, next to someone with a rifle hanging across his or her shoulder. While the sight of armed Israelis may be unsettling at first, their presence helps ensure everyone’s safety—crime in Israel is virtually non-existent—and should not cause alarm. In fact, you will find members of the military to be warm and inviting, even when on duty. Most are even accustomed to having their photos taken with respectful tourists.
As a whole, we have found Israel to be warm and welcoming toward visitors. Middle Easterners of all backgrounds are known for their longstanding tradition of hospitality toward outsiders, and Israelis are no exception. This tradition of caring for guests and visitors is why seasoned travelers rank Israel so highly as a destination.
While most visitors come to Israel to see ancient and historic sites, the country itself is fully modern. Israel is a democratic state with a $100 billion economy exceeding all the economies of its immediate neighbors combined. It offers every luxury and amenity you’d expect at home, from five-star hotels and restaurants to beautiful and clean beaches. Visitors can expect to be greeted with the best of everything.
Tourism has long been a major industry in Israel, but recent years have seen it grow significantly, at a rate of at least 7% per year. Construction has begun on multiple new hotels as a result of this steady expansion, and we believe it is largely a reflection of the comfort and security guests feel during their stay in the area.
Occasionally, our ministry partners request that our tours make stops in biblical sites like Jericho or Bethlehem, or otherwise have plans that require travel through the West Bank. Due to the long-standing tension between Palestinians and Israelis, this may be of some concern to our guests. Let us alleviate those concerns. Over the years we have traveled into Palestinian Authority controlled West Bank, and always without incident. We always use licensed guides, who accompany our buses at all times and take us through the safest routes. Furthermore, we continue to find the Palestinians we meet to be spectacular hosts.
It’s worth noting that tourism is such a profitable industry in both Israel and Palestine that neither country wishes to do anything to harm it. The local population is highly aware that hurting tourists or offending western nations can bring disastrous repercussions and deeply impact their livelihood. This is not something you hear in the American news cycle, but it is very much on the minds of the people in and around the Holy Land.
“But we just saw on the news…” Strife in the Middle East is a popular subject for the 24-hour American news networks, and we sometimes field nervous questions from travelers concerned by news reports—or from families back home who worry about their loved one’s safety in the Holy Land. After all, they say, Israel is a small country marked by ongoing tension. Should they think twice about traveling there? While we understand these concerns, we believe they are worsened by the media’s portrayal of the Middle East.
Inspiration has led Israel tours without incident while news reports portrayed conflict in the region. We have observed that media networks often use dated file footage to accompany stories when current video is unavailable. For example, a five-minute incident of children throwing rocks at Israeli soldiers is represented on the news as a “violent Palestinian protest”—even though it was quickly contained and resulted in no injuries. The mainstream media’s reporting about the Middle East can be more dramatic than the real events.
We are committed to the safety of our tours and travelers, and monitor every instance of conflict, unrest, or potential danger with your security in mind.
While Israel is a very safe country, we do recommend a number of basic travel tips to help you protect your personal belongings and yourself. These are the same tips we share for all international travel destinations:
We, at Inspiration find Israel to be a beautiful and safe place to visit, as well as a place of enormous cultural, historical, and religious significance. Millions of travelers discover this for themselves every year, including thousands who do so under our care.
To help you think through what you’ll need to bring on your upcoming Christian tour, we’ve provided the following information for using your electronic appliances like blow dryers, phones, laptops, etc. while traveling abroad.
You have three options of devices designed to help you operate personal electronics overseas:
Adapters These devices simply enable your standard plug to fit into wall outlets in other countries. Most are relatively inexpensive, about $3 to $5 each. If you travel frequently, you may want to consider purchasing a universal adapter kit.
Dual-voltage Appliances Many small electronic devices are dual-voltage and will adjust automatically for other countries. If your appliance’s charger has a manual switch, you’ll need to change it back and forth before plugging in your appliance. Check the manual or power cord for the device to know if it will work with 220 voltage without a converter.
Converters A power converter allows you to run U.S. devices that are not dual-voltage. Most converters cost $40 to $50. Be aware that U.S. electronics that are not dual-voltage should never be used without a converter in countries with a voltage of 220.
We know how nice it is to have the conveniences of home when traveling to a foreign country. Bringing your own electronics and hair appliances can enhance your overall travel experience. Here are some things to know about your electronics before you pack them:
Most small digital devices have dual-voltage chargers that do not require a converter. Before leaving on your tour, you’ll want to check the manual or power cord for each device to determine if it is dual voltage. If so, you’ll simply need to bring an adapter to plug the charger into the outlet.
Many hotels provide hair dryers in each room. If you prefer having your own hair appliances, you may want to consider purchasing or borrowing a more travel-friendly dual-voltage appliances instead of buying a converter–a less expensive (and lighter) option.
Today’s technology gives you the opportunity to stay connected while traveling—ensuring you can remain in contact with your loved ones. In addition, mobile phones provide convenient access for handling emergencies and confirming travel plans. Below are some basic guidelines and tips to save money, keep your phone working effectively and stay in touch.
Contact your cell phone carrier in advance of your trip to ensure you can call friends and family back home without any surprising charges on your phone bill when you return. Let your carrier know your travel plans, including how you plan to use your phone during your tour. Your carrier can provide specific details to ensure you understand any potential charges before you travel.
You’ll want to check that international dialing access is active on your mobile phone plan. Remember that international and roaming rates will apply to calls placed during your trip (charges will appear on your phone bill). Because roaming rates can be high overseas, it’s a good idea to check with your carrier for specific cost details before you leave.
We know it’s difficult to leave your cell phone behind for an hour, much less several days. The following tips will help you save your phone’s battery life and get the most out of your cell phone while on tour:
Before your trip, you may want to disable any applications that give you regular updates, such as sports reports and weather updates.
When you board your flight, remember to set your phone to Airplane Mode. This suspends all calling and texting functions but still allows you to play games, use your camera, listen to downloaded music, watch downloaded movies, etc.
During your trip, turning on your phone’s low battery mode or turning your phone to DND (do not disturb) preserves the charge, causing the battery to drain more slowly.
You’ll want to charge your phone every night to ensure you have enough battery life for the next day. Make sure you bring the proper adapter to charge your phone in Israel (see Help with Electronics).
Try to turn off your phone when you’re not using it. Leaving your phone on all day drains the battery, so it’s a good idea to turn it off while you’re touring a site, eating, reading or sleeping.
Disable the Data Enabled or Data Roaming option on your phone and keep it off until you return home. You can also turn off the function for “Automatic” checking of emails and change the email settings to “Manual” to reduce data roaming charges. During your trip, you can check for email messages when you’re connected to a free, wireless internet connection, such as in a hotel lobby or internet café.
Use Wi-Fi whenever possible. Wi-Fi is available in many of our hotels, as well as in local restaurants, coffee shops and even on the tour motorcoaches that take you from place to place. To avoid expensive data roaming rates, we recommend waiting until you have a good Wi-Fi connection before using your smartphone or tablet to check email, use Facebook or Instagram, browse the web or even text. Many passengers choose to use apps like FaceTime, WhatsApp, Skype and/or Viber to call home over Wi-Fi rather than traditional phone lines.
If you choose not to bring your mobile phone, there are various ways to stay in touch with others during your travels. Here are three options to consider:
Phone cards purchased in Israel. Most countries’ public telephones accept phone cards that can be purchased in various denominations from any post office and at various shops. Using a phone card, you can make international calls from card-equipped telephones or special telephone company offices in the country’s major cities. If you need assistance, the country’s major telephone companies have toll-free numbers.
Phone rental. You can also rent a mobile phone or SIM card for international travel. Whether you need to stay in constant contact with those back home or simply want to make and receive a few calls, this is an option for you. You can rent a phone or SIM card before you go by pre-ordering them to be shipped to your home before you leave. Another option is to buy or rent them at the Ben Gurion Airport in Israel. If you rent, they can be dropped off at the end of your tour before you depart.
Hotel room phones. You’ll also find phones in your hotel room. It’s a good idea to check the hotel rates before placing calls to friends and family back home.
As you plan for your upcoming Christian tour with Inspiration, you may be wondering about using money and credit cards during your travels. We’ve made the following recommendations to help you save money, avoid unnecessary fees and focus on an exceptional travel experience.
Almost all businesses in Israel accept U.S. credit or debit cards (debit cards will only work with ATMs, however, as most foreign businesses don’t have PIN machines). In most locations the availability of ATM machines makes withdrawing local currency an easy option for everyday purchases like meals, beverages and small souvenirs. Remember that ATM exchange rates vary daily. If you’re planning to use your credit cards, you’ll want to check with each credit card company to determine the international exchange fee for each card. Because the difference of a few percentage points could wind up costing you hundreds of dollars (depending on your purchases), we recommend using cards with lower international exchange fees. Using your credit card for large purchases gives you more protection for the items you buy on your trip (you can look at your credit card statement to verify all of your purchases). More country-specific details can be found in the list below:
Israel’s official currency is the New Israeli Shekel (NIS), although most stores and businesses will accept U.S. dollars. We visit very few places with ATMs on tour, so we strongly recommended you arrive with U.S. dollars in small denominations or shekels. Hotels will exchange small amounts of currency as well.
In planning your Christian Tour to Israel, you may have heard or read about a “value-added tax” (VAT) that Israel adds to the retail price of merchandise bought in the country. To help you save money during your travels, we’ve provided important information about this sales tax.
Tax Rate The VAT rate in Israel hovers around 16-20% of the total price of the item. The tax is usually included in the price rather than added on later at checkout. The specific rate depends on the kind of merchandise, higher for luxury items and a lower rate for basic items such as food.
VAT Refund In many cases, travelers who aren’t Israeli citizens can apply for a VAT refund on items they purchased on their travels. For tourists, the refund doesn’t apply to services such as hotel rooms or meals in restaurants. Remember to always ask the store if they participate in the VAT Refund Program.
Qualifying for a VAT Refund You’ll need to spend a minimum of $100 or the equivalent in local currency in a VAT refund certified store in a single transaction. Look for the “Tax Free Shopping” logo most retailers participating in the VAT refund often place on their doors for easy identification.
To help you identify VAT refund stores and apply to receive your VAT refund, we’ve provided a helpful overview of the process:
One of the best parts of traveling is sampling new foods from foreign places. The history and personality of a country is experienced in its flavors, and this is especially true in Israel, where the religious traditions and cultural memories of the Israeli people inspire their local dishes. Below is a helpful overview of the culinary traditions and foods you’ll find on your Christian tour through Israel.
You’ll find that most of Israel’s restaurants are kosher and conform to Jewish dietary law that mandates the separation of dairy products (including all cheeses and cream—even for coffee) from all meats. This means that you’ll have the opportunity to visit restaurants that serve either meat dishes only or dairy products only. You can expect establishments that serve both to have separate menus and separate kitchens to accommodate cultural laws. Additionally, you won’t find pork and shellfish in kosher restaurants.
Israel’s cuisine is a combination of local dishes native to the Jewish people and foods traditionally eaten in the Mediterranean and Middle East. Some of the country’s most common foods include:
Hummus, a dip made from mashed chickpeas, olive oil and spices, typically served with pita bread. (Hummus is as common to Israel as peanut butter is to the United States.)
Falafel, patties or balls of seasoned ground chickpeas, served in many restaurants and outdoor markets.
Shawarma, a pita bread sandwich made from seasoned meat prepared on a vertical spit. The meat is cooked for up to a day and then shaved off the block for serving.
Bourekas, puff pastry or phyllo dough filled with salty cheese, mashed potatoes, mushrooms and a variety of other fillings.
You can expect large breakfast and dinner buffets, which include a nice blend of cultural choices and traditional food with plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables. Lunches include a variety of options from buffets to intimate restaurant experiences. The water in Israel is safe to drink, and bottled water is available throughout Israel. Coffee (Nescafe) and juices are served at breakfast; all other meals offer water though additional beverages can be purchased. Coffee may be available after dinner in coffee lounges.
If you have a specific food allergy or special dietary needs, we recommend that you plan for your unique needs in advance of your trip. For the most part you will find enough variety on the buffets or in restaurants for all meals to enjoy the foods of the region while still maintaining your diet. You may want to bring some heat-resistant snacks to supplement your diet during touring days.
Traveling to other parts of the world on an exceptional travel experience offers you both fun and the opportunity to become immersed in a different culture. While you’re traveling with us, we want to make your time as carefree as possible by covering all tips and gratuities on your tour, including airport porters, hotel bellmen and your tour guide. As you visit various restaurants apart from the tour, remember to acknowledge and reward excellent service.
In Israel, the general guideline for restaurant service workers is 10-12% of the bill and 15% to acknowledge excellent service.
As you look forward to sharing an exceptional travel experience with friends and family, you may be looking for ways to extend your stay or take in more sights not on your main itinerary. Here are a few ways to make the most of your Israel tour:
Transfers from the airport to your hotel and also at the conclusion of your trip are included for all tours that are booked through Inspiration Cruises & Tours.
Remember that you always have the option of arriving earlier or staying later to lengthen your trip. Inspiration can help book your hotel a few days earlier before the tour or to extend your stay after the tour.
Some of our events have pre- and post-event extensions with guided tours that help you extend your stay and see exciting nearby places of interest. For example, an Israel tour may have the option of a post-tour trip to explore places of historic interest in Jordan. Look for extension information on the itinerary tab located on our website for events that interest you.
