Highlights |
Escorted Package Includes
- Flights NYC-Tel Aviv, Cairo-NYC
Other departure cities available. Click on date of departure for selection and prices
- Airline fuel surcharges
- Flight Tel Aviv-Cairo
- Intra-flights Cairo-Aswan, Luxor-Cairo
- 12 nights First Class accommodations
- All transfers
- 19 meals: 12 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners
- All meals on cruise
- Sightseeing per itinerary in modern air-conditioned motor coach
- Services of an English-speaking Egyptologist tour manager Day 8-14
- Services of an English-speaking tour manager in Israel
Special Features
- Ancient Roman port of Caesarea
- Church of the Annunciation, Nazareth
- Old City of Jerusalem
Also Available
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Itinerary |
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 This program is a comprehensive fast-paced tour featuring the highlights of Israel & Egypt in a brief visit. For more leisurely options, please check our longer-stay tours.
DAY 1, Thursday - Depart the USA
Depart the USA for Israel. Your flight includes meals, drinks, and in-flight entertainment for your journey
DAY 2, Friday - Tel Aviv
Arrive in Tel Aviv and transfer to your hotel. Balance of the day at leisure
Overnight: Tel Aviv
DAY 3, Saturday - Day at leisure in Tel Aviv
Enjoy a full day at leisure in Tel Aviv. Stroll the Promenade along the Mediterranean sea shore
Optional: Half Day Tel Aviv
Optional: Dinner in Tel Aviv
Overnight: Tel Aviv
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 4, Sunday - Caesarea, Haifa, Nazareth Sightseeing
Drive north along the coastal highway to Caesarea. Tour the remains of the Roman and Crusader ruins and the impressive theatre. Visit the harbor and see ancient history come to life with the multi-media presentation. Continue to Haifa, stopping for a view of the picturesque Bahai Gardens. Drive east through the Galilean hills to Nazareth, home of the Church of the Annunciation, the largest basilica in the Middle East, before continuing to Tiberias
Overnight: Tiberias
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 5, Monday - Day at leisure in Tiberias
Enjoy a full day at leisure in Tiberias. With the evening at leisure we suggest a visit to a local diamond factory
Optional: Full Day Golan Heights Tour with Lunch
Overnight: Tiberias
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 6, Tuesday - Capernaum and Beit Shean Sightseeing
Travel south towards the Sea of Galilee to Capernaum, site of a second century village and ancient synagogue, mentioned in the New Testament as home to the apostles. Crossing through the town of Tiberias on the shores of the Sea of Galilee, follow the Jordan River to Yardenit. Drive to Beit Shean, a city mentioned in the Bible, later a Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine city which was destroyed by an earthquake in 749AD. Continue south through the Jordan Valley to Jerusalem. Upon arrival, stop for a breathtaking view of the city from Mount Scopus
Overnight: Jerusalem
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 7, Wednesday - Jerusalem Old City Tour
This morning, enjoy a half day tour of Jerusalem's Old City, which is divided into 4 Quarters: Christian, Jewish, Armenian and Muslim. Stroll through the colorful winding alleys of the city. Walk along the Via Dolorosa, and some of the Stations of the Cross en route to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Pass through the local bazaars en route to Mount Zion to visit the Room of the Last Supper and the Tomb of King David
Optional: Half Day Bethlehem (PM)
Overnight: Jerusalem
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 8, Thursday - Flight to Cairo
Enjoy the day at leisure in this fascinating city. Stroll the pedestrian Ben Yehuda Street with it's many shops and cafes and restaurants or visit one of the city's many museums. In the late afternoon, transfer to the airport for your flight to Cairo. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel, the balance of the day is at leisure
Optional: Half Day Jerusalem Old City - Jewish Quarter (AM)
Overnight: Cairo
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 9, Friday- Depart Cairo, Embark Cruise
Transfer to the airport for your very early morning flight to Aswan. Upon arrival, transfer to board your Nile cruise ship, which serves as your floating hotel for the next three nights. Enjoy time at leisure in Aswan before sailing to Kom Ombo in the afternoon. In the evening, continue to Edfu
Optional Shore Excursion: Aswan High Dam, Obelisk, Temple of Philae, and Temple of Kom Ombo
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 10, Saturday - Cruise to Luxor
This afternoon, sail via Esna to Luxor, known in ancient Egyptian times as the city of Thebes
Optional Shore Excursion: Ptolemaic Temple in Edfu (AM)
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 11, Sunday - Full Day in Luxor
Enjoy a full day at leisure in Luxor. The premier destination in Upper Egypt, Luxor features an array of ruins and monuments and is often considered the most extraordinary open-air museum in the world. The city is also known for its horse carriages, called caleches, which offer a charming way to enjoy the area's many sightseeing opportunities
Optional Shore Excursion: Necropolis of Thebes, Colossi of Memnon, Valleys of the Kings and Queens, Temple of Queen Hatshepsut (AM)
Optional Shore Excursion: Temples of Karnak and Luxor (PM)
Optional: Luxor Sound and Light Show (PM)
Overnight: Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 12, Monday - Return to Cairo
After breakfast, disembark the boat and transfer to the airport for your return flight to Cairo. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure
Optional: Half Day Memphis & Sakkara
Overnight: Cairo
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 13, Tuesday - Full Day in Cairo
Enjoy a full day at leisure
Optional: Full Day Egyptian Museum & the Pyramids
Overnight: Cairo
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 14, Wednesday - Depart for the USA
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight
Meals: Breakfast
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Optionals |
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Book your Optional Tours before you travel and see more, save time, save money, and protect your investment. Tours purchased while traveling may cost an extra 10% or even more! Tours often sell out - avoid disappointment! Save your cash - many countries do not accept credit cards. Travel insurance only covers services purchased prior to departure.
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| 5 Dinner Value Package |
Day #2 |
01 Nov 2009 - 31 Mar 2011 $119
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Looking for dependable, affordable restaurants in a foreign country can be challenging, time-consuming and often risky. Your hotels are providing an economical way to stick to your budget, enjoy dependable local cuisine, without incurring any travel cost. Meals are based on the hotel's buffet or four-course set menu. Beverages are not included.
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| Half Day Tel Aviv |
Day #3 |
01 May 2009 - 31 Mar 2011 $39
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See the highlights of Tel Aviv, a vibrant city renowned for its chic, cosmopolitan character. Drive along the Promenade, the Tel Aviv waterfront on the Mediterranean to ancient Jaffa. Walk through the winding alleyways with their many art galleries that now occupy the old structures. Return to modern-day Tel Aviv, down the tree-lined Rothschild Avenue which boasts a large selection of Bauhaus Architecture style from the 1930'2 and 1940's. Continue past the Mann Auditorium and Habima, Israel's National Theatre, through Dizengoff Street, named after Tel Aviv's first mayor, dotted with boutiques and side-walk cafes. Visit Yitzhak Rabin Square with it's memorial to the late Israeli Prime Minister. Proceed along Ben Gurion Boulevard, named for Israel first Prime Minister and where David Ben Gurion's House remains as it was as a permanent exhibition. Return to your hotel.
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| Dinner in Tel Aviv |
Day #3 |
01 Nov 2009 - 31 Mar 2011 $55
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Drive through the bustling streets of Tel Aviv to ancient Jaffa, which today forms the modern city of Tel Aviv-Jaffa. Walk through the main square for a view of Tel Aviv to the north. Proceed to a local restaurant for dinner.
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| Full Day Golan Heights with lunch |
Day #5 |
11 Apr 2009 - 31 Mar 2010 $85
01 Apr 2010 - 30 Jun 2011 $85
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Ascend the Golan Heights. Stop for spectacular vistas of the Sea of Galilee (Lake Kinnereth) and surrounding areas. Visit Mt Ben Tal, site of a former Israeli bunker to understand its stategic importance during the 6 Day War in 1967 and the Yom Kippur War in 1973. After a stop for lunch, visit the kosher winery in Katzrin, the largest town in the Golan Heights. Drive to Safed, a holy city in Judaism and the center of the mystical Kabbala. Stroll through the artists' colony and visit an ancient synagogue.
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| Half Day Bethlehem 2:00 PM |
Day #7 |
11 Apr 2009 - 31 Mar 2010 $30
11 Apr 2009 - 31 Mar 2011 $30
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Enjoy a half day tour featuring the Church of the Nativity, the oldest church in the Holy Land, still in use and commemorates the birthplace of Jesus Christ. Many restoration projects have occurred through the years. Presently the facade of the Church of the Nativity is encircled by the high walls of the three convents: the Franciscan on the northeast side, the Greek Orthodox and the Armenian Orthodox, on the southeast side. A shopping stop for local souvenirs and olive wood handicrafts is included. Please note that Bethlehem is located six miles south of Jerusalem in the West Bank and governed by the Palestinian National Authority.
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| Half Day Jerusalem Old City Jewish Quarter |
Day #8 |
01 Nov 2009 - 31 Mar 2011 $45
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Enter the Old City at Dung Gate and proceed to the Western Wall (also known as the Wailing Wall), the last remnant of the Second Temple and considered a holy site in Judaism. You may have an opportunity to witness a Bar or Bat Mitzvah ceremony. Continue through the restored Jewish Quarter to the Cardo, the Roman colonnaded shopping street. Walk through the bazaars to Jaffa Gate and visit the Museum of the History of Jerusalem at David's Citadel. View the historical sequence in displays that are spread among the many rooms of the fortress and gardens.
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| Nile River Optional Shore Excursion Package |
Day #9 |
01 Dec 2009 - 30 Sep 2010 $159
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Optional Excursion Discount Package includes visits to: (1) Aswan High Dam, Obelisk, Philae's Temple of Isis and Temple of Kom Ombo (2) Ptolemaic Temple in Edfu (3) Luxor West Bank: Valley of the Kings and Queens, Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, and Colossi of Memnon (4) Luxor East Bank: Temples of Luxor and Karnak
Please note that all tours start as per the cruise itinerary, which may change according to navigation circumstances.
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| Luxor Sound & Light Show |
Day #11 |
01 Dec 2009 - 31 Aug 2010 $45
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Inaugurated in 1972, the show starts with a historical introduction covering the birth of the great city of Thebes and construction of the Karnak Temple, one of the most famous temples in the world. The show also narrates the glorious achievements of some of the great Pharaohs. Hear too a captivating description of the artistic treasures and great legacy that the Karnak Temple encompasses.
Winter: Departs at 6:15 p.m.; returns at 8:15 p.m.
Summer: Departs at 7:15 p.m.; returns at 9:15 p.m.
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| Half Day Memphis & Sakkara |
Day #12 |
01 Dec 2009 - 31 Aug 2010 $65
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Begin with a drive to Memphis, the oldest capital of Egypt, to see the colossal statue of Ramses II, and the alabaster sphinx of King Tutmosis III. Then, visit the Sakkara step pyramids, including the famous Step Pyramid of Zoser, built by Imhotep, the first named architect in recorded history, before returning to your hotel.
Departs at 1 p.m.; returns at 5 p.m.
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| Full Day Pyramids & Egyptian Museum |
Day #13 |
01 Dec 2009 - 31 Aug 2010 $89
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Visit the Pyramids at Giza, built during the Third and Fourth Dynasties. These monumental undertakings stand as a marvelous testimony to the almost unbelievable skill and determination of their builders. Enjoy an up-close view of the Great Pyramid, built for the Pharaoh Cheops, as well as the Pyramids of Khefren and Mycerinus. Not far from the Pyramids, see the great Sphinx of Giza, the legendary chimeral statue that combines the head of king Khfren with a lion's body. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before continuing to the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, the most important repository of Egyptian antiquities in the world. Over 250,000 artifacts are on display, including an exhibit dedicated to the Tutankhamon collection of treasures, gold, and jewelry. The collection had been enclosed in his tomb for over 3,500 years before its discovery in the 1920s, when his tomb was finally excavated. End the day at the bazaar of Khan El Khalili, before returning to your hotel.
Departs at 8 a.m.; returns at 4 p.m.
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Book your Optional Tours before you travel and see more, save time, save money, and protect your investment. Tours purchased while traveling may cost an extra 10% or even more! Tours often sell out - avoid disappointment! Save your cash - many countries do not accept credit cards. Travel insurance only covers services purchased prior to departure.
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Rates & Hotels |
Step 1: Select Your Choice of Cabin & Hotel Plans Step 2: Click a Date to Book Online
OR: Click here to create your own flexible vacation
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| Dates & Prices |
Land/Cruise Only |
Air & Land/Cruise |
| Dates & Prices |
Land/Cruise Only |
| Dates & Prices |
Air & Land/Cruise |
| 2010 |
Apr 15 (Sold Out) | $1869 | $3199* |
May 6 (Sold Out) | $1759 | $2759* |
| May 27 | $1719 | $2999* |
| Jun 10 | $1739 | $2989* |
| Jun 24 | $1769 | $3249* |
| Aug 5 | $1879 | $3099* |
| Create Your Own Flexible Vacation |
*Not Included:
Airport taxes & fees, optional tours, and gratuities.
Additional Information:
Land only price does not include arrival/departure transfers, but does include flight Tel Aviv-Cairo and Egypt intra-flights.
Departures Mar 18, Apr 15, May 6 will be accommodated at Prima Kings, Jerusalem.
Mar 11, Oct 14, 28 departures will be accommodated at Pastoral Kfar Blum Hotel in Galilee.
Please note that in many cases, Egypt Air changes intra-Egypt schedules, flights and reservations. Therefore, your final flight schedule will only be confirmed to you by your Tour Manager while you are in Egypt.
This program is a comprehensive fast-paced tour featuring the highlights of Israel & Egypt in a brief visit. For more leisurely options, please check our longer-stay tours.
Entry Requirements:
US citizens require a passport valid for six months beyond travel dates.
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| Although most of the planning and preparation is taken care of for you, there are still a few things you should know and some details you should take care of to ensure your comfort, safety and peace of mind. Please review the following information before your departure to ensure that any surprises along the way will only be pleasant ones. | |
| Passports and Visas | It is each traveler's responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the information at www.gate1travel.com/visas.aspx for the specific country/region you are visiting for more details. Passengers who are not U.S. citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passport applications are available at most U.S. Post Offices, as well as at regional Passport Agencies.
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Entry Requirements:
US citizens require a passport valid for six months beyond travel dates.
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| Trip Preparation | A little pre-planning can make your trip go a lot smoother. Several weeks before your trip, make a list of what you will need to take with you. Make sure your personal documents (passports, visas) are in order and that you have enough prescription medications to last through the trip. We suggest that you make photocopies of passports, visas, and any other important travel documents and pack them separately from the originals. Pack a list of medications including dosage and generic names. If you lose the originals while traveling, you'll have copies for easier reporting and replacement. We recommend that you pack a portable alarm clock.
| | Health Information | Check with your personal physician for the latest overseas travel health information, or contact the Center for Disease Control’s travelers’ hotline at 404-332-4559, web site www.cdc.gov.
| | Climate & Clothing | Egypt - Spring: 70°F-90°F; Summer: 80°F-130°F; Autumn: 70°F-90°F; Winter: 60°F-85°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather coat. Sunscreen and a hat or sunglasses are also recommended. Some religious sites do not allow shorts or sleeveless shirts.
As Egypt is a very warm country, at certain times of the year your itinerary may be amended to travel early in the morning and late afternoon to avoid the heat.
Egypt Average Temperatures: http://www.gate1travel.com/weather/mediterranean/default.aspx#egypt-weather
| 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. Some religious sites do not allow shorts or sleeveless shirts.
Israel Average Temperatures: http://www.gate1travel.com/weather/mediterranean/default.aspx#israel-weather
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| E-Tickets & Check-In Procedures |
Please review the flight itinerary included in these documents. Print and carry a copy of the air itinerary which contains the record locator (airline reservation number) and e-ticket number(s). At check-in, be prepared to provide your government issued identification (valid passport) and your e-ticket itinerary/ ticket numbers to the agent in order to receive your boarding pass.
An e-ticket (electronic ticket) represents the purchase of an airline seat. This form of ticket has replaced almost all formerly provided paper tickets. The e-ticket exists only as a digital record in the airlines computers. In most cases your reservation will be confirmed solely on the basis of your government-issued identification. However it may still be necessary to present the e-ticket itinerary which contains your specific reservation code and ticket number(s). Once confirmed, your luggage will be checked-in and a boarding pass provided.
Advance online check-in is available on some airlines. If available, you may enter your airline confirmation number at the airline's website, and print the boarding pass on your home printer within twenty-four hours of departure. Airlines without advance online check-in require you to present your identification and e-ticket numbers at the airport self-service kiosk or check-in counter.
When e-tickets cannot be issued, you will receive paper tickets.
If your tour program includes foreign domestic flights, and those tickets are not included together with the e-ticket itinerary in these documents, a separate voucher(s) confirming those services will be included. You will receive those tickets at your destination from a Gate 1 representative.
| | Airline Flights | Please check in at least three hours prior to the scheduled departure time to allow for security steps. Passengers connecting from another point within the USA may check their luggage through to their final destination, and although problems with lost luggage have been minimal, it is a possibility. Certain carriers do not allow baggage “interlining,” and luggage must be checked separately for each flight. If you are connecting from a domestic flight which is delayed for any reason, causing you to miss your international flight, you must ask the airline for assistance in getting you to your destination. Since all airline tickets are issued on special fares which carry restrictions and penalties if changed, you must have the airlines responsible make alternate arrangements on your behalf as Gate 1 has no authority or control over airline activities and policies. Do not leave the airline check-in desk until an alternative itinerary has been confirmed for you.
Flight schedule changes are common and may occur anytime until departure. Therefore it is the responsibility of each passenger to reconfirm their flights 72 hours prior to departure for all flights.
| | Airline Luggage Restrictions | Most international airlines are consistent with regard to the number and weight of the pieces you may check and bring onboard. Domestic carriers however, typically on small aircraft, differ. Therefore, we suggest that you check in advance if you are concerned about size or weight restrictions. Many airlines have begun to apply charges for checked bags. Please contact your airline or refer to its website for detailed information regarding your airline's checked baggage policies. Airline policies vary and may change at any time. Gate 1 Travel is not responsible for any excess luggage/ weight charges levied by an airline.
| | Airline Seats | Airline seats are confirmed whenever possible. Some airlines and/or fare types do not allow for pre-seating and require this be done at airport check-in only. Even when seats are pre-assigned however, we recommend that you contact the carrier one to two weeks prior to departure to reconfirm your seats. In many cases there are equipment changes after your initial booking which can cause airplane seating reconfiguration.
| | Airline Tickets | Most airline tickets are issued using special fares which cannot be changed or canceled without incurring additional cost. Should you lose or misplace your tickets while traveling, you should immediately notify the airline. In most cases they will have you complete a Lost Ticket Indemnity Form, and for a fee, issue replacement tickets.
| | Code-share Flights | Many airlines participate in alliances and special agreements with other airlines which permit passengers to travel from one point to another using more than one carrier. While your ticket may indicate that you are flying with one carrier (eg: Delta), you may find that you are actually seated in a plane belonging to another carrier (eg: Alitalia). Please review your airline itinerary carefully to determine which airline you should go to for check-in; if your flight is operated by a carrier other than the primary airline indicated on the itinerary, your itinerary will state "Flight Operated by (Airline)." If you have any concerns regarding which airline to check-in with, you may contact the airline directly or Gate 1 Travel for clarification.
| | Luggage | All Gate 1 tour packages allow one piece of luggage per person, plus carry-on bag. Additional baggage will be subject to airline handling charges of up to $100 per piece. As Gate 1 will not be responsible for loss or damage to luggage and personal belongings, you MUST report any loss or damage immediately at the time of the incident and obtain a written report from the local authority for submission to your insurance provider. If your luggage is lost or damaged by the airlines, a baggage claim form MUST be filed with the carrier before leaving the airport. See www.gate1travel.com/luggage.aspx for Important Baggage Information for U.S. Travelers.
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| Arrival Procedures | Upon arrival, please complete immigration formalities and claim your luggage. If your program includes airport arrival transfers, check your voucher for specific instructions, as they vary with every destination. In most cases, you will be met after passing through Customs by the local representative who will be holding a Gate 1 Travel sign and/or a sign with your name on it. In some instances you will be instructed to walk a short distance to a transportation counter. The company's name and location will be printed on your voucher. If for any reason you do not connect with the Gate 1 transfer personnel, go to the Tourist Information Desk and ask them to page the Gate 1 Travel representative or phone the number on your voucher.
| Israel - You will be met by our local representative after you have completed immigration formalities in the baggage claim area. Look for someone holding a Gate 1 Travel sign and/or a sign with your name on it, or your name might be paged to approach the Information Desk. If you do not connect with the Gate 1 transfer personnel, go to the Tourist Information Desk and ask them to page the Gate 1 Travel representative or phone the number on your voucher.
| | What To Do When Your Flight Is Delayed | Airlines do not share flight manifest information. Therefore, the only way we may learn of a delay or schedule change while you are traveling is from you, the traveler. The sooner you are able to contact one of our offices, overseas or in the USA, the better we can respond. Gate 1 Travel is only able to guarantee pre-reserved arrival transfers for up to one hour from the scheduled time, no matter the cause. In case you are delayed for any reason, and are unable to follow the instructions on your voucher, please make independent transfer arrangements and retain your receipts. Unused tour services, including transfers and hotel nights are not refundable. Upon your return home you will need to contact your airline and/or insurance carrier to investigate the possibility of reimbursement for any unused tour services.
| | Departure Procedures | If your program includes departure transfers, instructions will be stated on your voucher or provided locally.
| | Transfers | Due to local traffic and other extenuating circumstances, we ask that you allow 30 minutes from your scheduled transfer time for our representative to arrive. This includes hotel, airport and cruise transfers. Such possible delays are taken into consideration in scheduling transfers and you should therefore have no concerns about arriving late for your tour, flight or cruise. For transfers from a hotel, let the hotel reception desk or concierge know that you are waiting for a transfer. In the case of a missed transfer, reimbursement for your out-of-pocket expenses will be considered provided you obtain a written statement from the hotel's front desk verifying the length of time you waited, and the time you left the hotel, and a receipt for your transportation with time and date.
Escorted tour programs include transfers, providing you have purchased airfare from Gate 1 to arrive and depart on the scheduled tour dates. If you are traveling independently, you may purchase the transfers from Gate 1 or contract your own method of transportation to the hotel or cruise ship. The cost of a transfer will generally be more expensive than hiring a taxi as the pre-arranged transfer necessarily includes round trip service, or a 'dead-leg'. Additionally the driver may have to wait at the collection point for up to an hour.
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| Hotels | Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each hotel based on overall quality, location, price, food, service, and cleanliness. All rooms are standard rooms with two single beds and private facilities, unless you have specifically requested and paid for an upgrade. Room selection is strictly at the discretion of the hotel management. We reserve the right to make hotel substitutions with those of equal standard.
| | Hotel Check-in/ Check-out | Check-in time is usually 4pm or later. Check-out time is 12 noon. If you will be arriving early in the day or departing in the evening, hotels will usually allow you to store your luggage in their luggage room. Ask at the front desk if the hotel can check you in earlier, or let you stay later.
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| Eco & Sustainable Tourism | We support global efforts to create a more eco-friendly world, intolerant of any forms of cruelty, abuse and intentional environmental destruction. To that end we ask that our clients maintain a watchful eye as they travel, and report any abuses they may encounter. One of the many benefits of tourism is the shared cultural knowledge and ultimate elimination of negative behavior through education. We rely on your good feedback to enable this element of symbiosis. As you travel to and learn about foreign cultures, we ask first and foremost that you practice tolerance and respect for local customs.
| | Land Only Passengers (Escorted Tours) | Your tour manager will contact you after your arrival at your hotel. Passengers who have not purchased arrival transfers from Gate 1 Travel should proceed directly to the hotel for checkin. The details of the hotel can be found in your documents.
| | Shopping | Shopping in a foreign country can be a wonderful experience. We do include a few stops at recommended popular shops on every escorted tour, intended to enhance your cultural experience. As you explore the country independently, you may find fantastic, one-of-a-kind merchandise. You may get terrific bargains. However, we advise you to exercise care and common sense when making any purchase. Always get a formal receipt. And remember that, just like in this country, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is!
| Egypt - Egypt offers many fine and unique goods. Some shops feature fixed prices, while at others haggling is expected. Vendors often use high-pressure tactics to encourage customers to buy, even at reputable stores. Please note that it is not advisable to purchase DVDs in Egypt as they usually cannot be played on DVD players in the United States due to differences in regional coding specifications.
| Israel - Shopping hours: From Sunday to Thursday from 9:30 am to 7 pm. Sabbath is from sunset on Friday to sunset on Saturday. Because of this, most stores and businesses are closed on Saturday.
Most hotels and many restaurants throughout the country keep kosher (observe Jewish dietary rules) which means no mixing of meat and milk products in food preparation and not serving pork or shellfish. Non-kosher restaurants are open on Friday night and Saturday.
| | Currency | We suggest getting a small amount of currency for the first country you're visiting before you leave the U.S. It is a good idea to carry a chart with you to help you convert U.S. dollars to the local currency. It's also a good idea not to carry too much money. Many countries have ATM machines that accept most U.S. ATM cards, but be sure you know your ATM password in numbers-the keypads on foreign ATMs don't always have letters. ATM machines will only dispense cash in local currency. Check with respective consulates to learn current currency allowances and requirements. Use your credit card whenever possible. Should you decide to carry cash or travelers checks, exchange them at banks where the rate is more favorable than at hotels or exchange bureaus. Please note that many banks and most vendors will not accept or exchange $100 bills. We suggest to carry $20 bills or smaller.
| Egypt - The Egyptian pound is the currency of Egypt.
Please note, it can be difficult to cash travelers checks while traveling in Egypt, they are not recommended. The American Express Card is not accepted in most locations in Egypt. It is best to travel with cash, Mastercard and Visa. Ensure that you have sufficient cash on hand, as ATMs will not always be readily available. It is recommended to carry cash in small denominations such as 5 or 10 Egyptian Pounds or in US $1 bills to make tipping and minor expenses easier.
| Israel - The Shekel is the currency of Israel. Also, many vendors will accept payment in U.S. dollars.
| | Purchasing Tours Locally | On escorted tours, the guides will generally sell optional tours to passengers who have not pre-purchased them. Payment can be made by cash or credit card, unless otherwise noted below. This does not apply to Independent packages. Please see Gate 1 Terms & Conditions for more information. http://www.gate1travel.com/terms.aspx#optional
| | Credit Cards | While credit cards are accepted in most destinations, it is advisable to carry local currency. Inform your credit card company that you are traveling to avoid your card being blocked for security reasons.
| | Gratuities | This is a matter of personal discretion. You may use the following as a guideline:
- Tour escort (Coordinator; may or may not act as a guide):
$6 or $7 per person per day
- Driver (Provides chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage):
$3 per person per day
- Local Guide (Offers in-depth information at specific locations. There may be one or many guides along a tour program):
$2 per person per half day of sightseeing (2-3 hours)
- River Cruises:
$6 or $7 per person per day as indicated by each cruise line (see details regarding European River Cruises)
- Hotel Porter:
$1 per bag per person
- Wait staff:
$1.50 per person (lunch or dinner)
Tipping is considered by many locals to be a part of their normal remuneration and some may approach you for additional "compensation." There is no need to be intimidated by the request, nor should you feel pressured to pay more than recommended. If you become uncomfortable by any behavior you encounter, please advise your tour escort or phone our local office. Numbers have been provided in your documents for your convenience.
| Egypt - It is customary to tip in restaurants (10% is customary for good service) and other places that cater to tourists.
On Escorted and Nile River Cruise tours, tips for airport assistance, luggage handling, drivers and hotel porters will be included in your invoice.
On Nile River cruises, suggested tipping is $5 per person per day to be paid at the end of your cruise.
Many public bathrooms are staffed, and a small tip is standard when using these facilities.
| Israel - Although bills normally include a service charge, it is customary to tip in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Taxi drivers do not expect gratuities and rounding up to the nearest shekel is usually sufficient.
| | Your Safety is Very Important | Every effort has been taken by Gate 1 Travel to ensure your safety. However, it is important that you do not allow your common sense to take a vacation while you're on your trip. Be aware of potentially dangerous places and situations as you would at home. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry and carry your valuables concealed in inside pockets or hidden pouches. Don't put all your valuables (money, credit cards, passports, etc.) in the same place. (In case that one wallet is stolen, you should have other valuables and identification in another safe place.) Don't leave valuables laying loose in your room-use the hotel safe. Keep copies of your passports, credit card numbers and travelers checks numbers in the hotel safe. If you've purchased an escorted tour program, your travel documents will include telephone numbers of local Gate 1 Travel representatives who will do their utmost to assist you in the event of an emergency. The numbers are printed on your Gate 1 Travel vouchers. Please copy the numbers. Once you relinquish the voucher, you will not have this information. Passengers traveling independently should employ the services of hotel concierges and local authorities.
| | Local Emergency Phone Numbers | Egypt
- Ambulance/Medical: 0
- Fire: 03180
- Police: 0
| Israel
- Ambulance/Medical: 101
- Fire: 102
- Police: 100
| | Languages | Egypt - Egyptian Arabic is the local language. English is generally spoken in tourist areas.
| Israel - Hebrew and Arabic are the local languages. English is generally spoken in tourist areas.
| | Electricity | Please note: The U.S. uses 120 volts and you can purchase a converter and transformer at most hardware stores for your 120V appliances.
| Egypt - The voltage used is 220 volts, including on board Nile cruises.
| Israel - The voltage used is 230 volts. Israeli sockets are usually 3-pronged, and foreign-made appliances generally require an adapter.
| | Code of Conduct | Egypt - Egypt is an Islamic country. Visitors should observe normal courtesies. Shaking hands is a standard form of greeting. Women should dress modestly, especially in non-tourist and rural areas, where traditional mores are more strictly followed. Beachwear should be confined to the beach and poolside. Public display of affection is sometimes regarded as discourteous. Smoking is very common.
| | Holidays - Egypt |
| Holidays 2010 |
| Jan 7 |
Coptic Christmas |
Feb 26 |
Mawlid (celebration of the Prophet's birthday)* |
Apr 25 |
Sinai Liberation Day |
Apr 28 |
Sham el-Nassim (Coptic Easter) |
May 1 |
Labour Day |
May 10 |
Spring Festival (Monday following Orthodox Easter) |
Jul 23 |
Revolution Day (National Day) |
| Aug 12-Sep 9 |
Holy Month of Ramadan* |
Sep 10-13 |
Bairam Feast (End of Ramadan)* |
Sep 11 |
Coptic New Year |
| Oct 6 |
Armed Forces Day |
Nov 16-17 |
Grand Feast* |
Dec 7 |
Islamic New Year* |
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* Please note that Islamic holidays are based a lunar calendar, and exact dates depend on local sightings of the moon. Because of this, actual dates may vary slightly from the dates given above.
| | | Holidays - Israel |
| Holidays 2010 |
| Feb 28 |
Purim |
| Mar 30-Apr 5 |
Pesach (Passover) |
Apr 20 |
Yom Ha'Atzmaut (Israel Independence Day) |
May 19 |
Shavu'ot (Pentecost) |
Sep 9-10 |
Rosh Hashana (New Year) |
Sep 18 |
Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement) |
Sep 23-29 |
Sukkot (Feast of Tabernacles) |
| Oct 1 |
Simhat Torah & Shemini Atzeret (Celebration of Renewal and Thanksgiving) |
Dec 2-9 |
Chanukah (Festival of the Lights) |
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The Jewish Sabbath (Shabbat - Day of Rest) is on Saturday. Shabbat begins at nightfall on Friday and ends at nightfall on Saturday. All public services are closed on Friday and Eve of Holy Day, as well as Saturday and all Holidays. Stores and some restaurants close at midday on Friday and Eve of Holidays and are closed on Saturdays and all Holy Days. There is no public transportation on Friday afternoons, Saturdays, Eve of Holy Days and observed Holy Days. Muslim and Christian holidays are also observed by the respective populations.
| | | Food and Meals | As specified in each itinerary. Meals are based on the hotel's or restaurant's buffet or set menu. In general, beverages are not included, unless specifically stated. Although Gate 1 cannot make guarantees, every effort will be made to honor special dietary requests submitted in writing at least 72 hours prior to departure to info@gate1travel.com.
| Egypt - Be sure that all food, including meats, vegetables and fruits are fully cooked. Do not eat food purchased from street vendors. Avoid dairy products, unless you know they have been pasteurized. Drink only bottled or boiled water, or carbonated drinks in cans or bottles. Avoid tap water, fountain drinks, and ice cubes.
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