Calvary Chapel of Montrose Colorado Israel/Jordan Tour
Featured Hotels
| Custom | ||
|---|---|---|
| Ramada Hotel & Suites | Netanya | |
| Lake House Tiberias | Tiberias | |
| Ramada Resort by Wyndham Dead Sea | Dead Sea | |
| Petra Canyon Hotel | Petra | |
| Dan Panorama Jerusalem | Jerusalem | |
NOT INCLUDED:
Meals unless specified, and anything not mentioned in the package includes section
Arrival and departure transfers will be accommodated for passengers who have purchased group air. Anyone independently traveling but must arrive/depart at the same group scheduled transfer time(s).
Travel Protection (Insurance): www.gate1travel.com/insurance/travelex.aspx
Travel Protection (Insurance) premiums are not covered by the initial deposit. Insurance premiums may be paid at any time prior to or with final payment and become effective on the date payment is received.
Passports & Visas:
Passengers are required to hold a passport valid for six months beyond travel dates, and are responsible to obtain visa(s) as needed.
Visa to enter Israel is not needed for US Citizens. We will secure Visa for entry to Jordan for US Citizens. All other passport holders must check about visa to enter both Israel and Jordan
Payment Terms:
Reservation Deposit: $300 at time of reservation
Final payment: 90 Days Prior to Departure (19 JUN 2024)
Cancel penalty - Per passenger/seat:
Passengers submit their cancellation to "Cancel Reservation" in the Contact Us page. gate1travel.com/contactus
- Airfare penalty: Once airfare is purchased, either at time of booking for Instant Purchase Airfare or at time of full payment for Gate 1 Airfare, airline tickets will be issued and are always subject to 100% penalty.
Removal of group airfare from a reservation after the Group Status Review deadline is subject to penalty, to be advised at time of air cancellation.
- Land Penalty per person
150 to 91 days (20 APR-18 JUN 2024): $300 per person
90 to 61 days (19 JUN-18 JUL): 50% of cost per person
60 to 31 days (19 JUL-17 AUG): 75% of cost per person
30 days or less/ no-show (18 AUG 2024): 100% of cost
Passengers traveling abroad require a passport valid for six months beyond their travel dates. All travelers are responsible to check if a visa is required for all countries on their itinerary. For visa information, check our Visas page.
Package Includes:
- 9 nights accommodations at the following hotels:
- 1 night Netanya,Isarel
- 2 nights Tiberias, Israel
- 1 night Dead Sea Jordan
- 1 night Petra, Jordan
- 4 nights Jerusalem, Israel
- 19 meals, 9 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 9 Dinner
- 1 Arrival/1 Departure Transfer
- Sightseeing per itinerary in modern air-conditioned motor coach
- Local guides as required
- Entrance fees per itinerary
- Porterage of one piece per person on arrival and departure at each hotel
- Exit tax from Israel, Visa to enter Jordan, Exit tax from Jordan & return over Allenby Bridge
- Head Sets for enhanced Touring
- 2 bottles of water per day while touring
- Tips to guide/driver/hotel staff-Israel & Jordan
Additional Information:
- Demo: Please click here for a demonstration of our booking process.
- Cash Discount:If you should choose to pay by cash/check your final invoice will reflect a 5% discount.
- Frequently asked questions: Please click here for a list of commonly asked questions.
Day 1 - Tuesday, September 17, 2024
Depart Denver Colorado for your flight to Tel Aviv, Israel
Day 2 - Wednesday, September 18, 2024
Welcome to Israel, upon arrival into Ben Gurion International Airport, you will be met and assisted by our airport representative. Depending upon our time of arrival we will try to visit the Old Town Jaffa before continuing the seaside resort of Netanya. Check in at your hotel for dinner and overnight.
*If time permits we will visit Jaffa today before going to our hotel.
Overnight: Netanya, Israel
Meals: Dinner
Day 3 - Thursday, September 19, 2024
After breakfast we will make our way north along the coastal plain to Caesarea Maritima which was the center of early Christians, and the capital of Judea under the Romans. Visit the excavations of this ancient city, the Roman theatre, and the aqueduct. Here where Paul made his defense before Festus and King Agrippa prior to his final journey to Rome. We'll stop at Mount Carmel (Muchraka), where Elijah issued his challenge to the False Prophets. After a lunch break (on your own account) continue and enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of Haifa Bay and the Western Galilee region. We continue on our drive to the mound of Megiddo, ‘har Megiddo in Hebrew, which gave its name to Armageddon. Next, we will stop atop of Mt. Precipice, also known as Mount of Precipitation or Mount of the Leap of the Lord. It's believed to be the site of the rejection of Jesus. What a view of the beautiful Jezreel Valley the town of Nazareth from here. Drive via Cana of Galilee where Jesus performed his first public miracle, the turning of water into wine at the wedding feast, and the Lower Galilee region to the beautiful Sea of Galilee. Our kibbutz guest house is situated on the shores of the Sea of Galilee.
Overnight: Sea of Galilee, Israel
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 4 - Friday, September 20, 2024
After breakfast, we will drive north to the Banias - one of the sources of the Jordan and also known as Caesarea Philippi - where Jesus was identified as the Messiah. As we begin our return to the Sea of Galilee we will stop to visit Bethsaida (The House of the Fisherman), located on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee, is where Jesus was active as a preacher and healer. Also the home of the Apostles Pete, Philip, and Andrew, as well as where Jesus healed the blind man. Next, we will visit the Mount of Beatitudes where Jesus preached the Sermon on the Mount, see the famous Church of the Beatitudes chapel, constructed between 1936 and 1938 by the noted architect Antonio Barluzzi and enjoy the view. We will stop for lunch sitting right near the lake before continuing to Capernaum where is believed to have been Jesus' home and the center of his ministry, here we can stand in what is left of the synagogue in which Jesus ministered, and where he performed many miracles, and it's in Capernaum where Peter's mother-in-law lived and was healed. We make our way now to the latest excavations in the Galilee. Migdal or Magdala, the home of Mary Magdalene. It was here that the oldest known synagogue was uncovered and where it is believed that Jesus taught. Also uncovered was the oldest known carving of the Menorah. As our full day comes to an end we will visit the "Ancient Jesus Boat" remains of a 2,000 years old boat that was discovered in 1986. This boat was used at the time of Jesus and his disciples. We will then board a replica wooden boat and sail on as the disciples did 2000 years ago on the Sea of Galilee where the Lord calmed the storm, and where he made one of the most dramatic miracles walking on water, and it was along the shores of the Sea of Galilee where Jesus appeared for a third time after being raised from the dead, and asked his disciples to throw their net to the right side of the boat and caught many fish, and where the Lord made the disciples breakfast. Our day closes out with a sail on the Sea of Galilee with time for prayer worship and song. Return to your guest house for overnight and dinner.
Overnight: Sea of Galilee, Israel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5 - Saturday, September 21, 2024
Early departure from Nof Ginosar to visit Bet Shean, the most magnificent archeological site in Israel, located at the strategic juncture of the Jezreel and Jordan Valleys. Have a lite bite to eat before continuing to the border. Arrive at Sheikh Hussein at 12:30 pm-listen closely to the crossing procedures to enter Jordan. We will now make our way to Bethany Beyond the Jordan. Fleeing the authorities because of his sermons, John the Baptist made his way to Bethany beyond the Jordan. He would sleep and rest in a cave close to the springs of “Saphsaphas (what is today known as the Valley of Kharrar). The Bible states that here people from Jerusalem, Judea, and the surrounding regions of the Jordan flocked to John for baptism. It is written that Jesus left Nazareth and made his way to Bethany Beyond the Jordan and went to John to be Baptized. John, however, objected to baptizing Jesus saying, "I am the one that needs you to baptize me!" But upon Jesus' continued insistence, John acquiesced and baptized Jesus in the Jordan River. A very spiritual experience for all. Time to go to our hotel on the Dead Sea. Dinner and overnight.
Overnight: Dead Sea, Jordan
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 6 - Sunday, September 22, 2024
After breakfast, we will make our way to Mount Nebo. It is here that Moses viewed the Promised Land and “the Lord showed Moses all the land of Gilead as far as Dan, all Naphtali and the land of Ephraim and Manasseh, all the land of Judah as far as the Western Sea, the South, and the plain of the Valley of Jericho, the city of Palm Trees (Jericho), as far as Zoar, and this is where the Lord said to Moses, “This is the land of which I swore to give Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, saying, "I will give it to your descendants." Continue to Madaba to see the ancient mosaic map of the Holy Land and ruins of historical sites. In Madaba its written in the scriptures that "the servant of the Lord died there in the land of Moab". We will make a lunch stop before continuing to Petra for dinner and overnight.
Overnight: Petra, Jordan
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 7 - Monday, September 23, 2024
Early wake-up and breakfast. We have a long day ahead of us. We will begin our tour of Petra at 08:00 am. Enter the "Siq" (canyon) and then on foot to the ancient capital of the Nabateans from 3rd century B.C. to 2nd Century A.D. Carved by the Nabataeans out of solid rock, Petra was forgotten for hundreds of years until it was rediscovered in 1812. At the entrance to Petra, travelers are offered the option to ride a horse for 800m - from the visitor center to the entrance of the dramatic “Siq” (canyon). From the entrance to the Siq there is a 1,250 meters walk to the 1st monument “The Treasury”. During the Exodus, Moses and the Israelites passed through the Petra area in Edom. Local tradition says that the spring at Wadi Musa (Valley of Moses), just outside Petra, is the place where Moses struck the rock and brought forth water. Visit the most interesting monuments, such as the Treasury, El Khazneh (a tomb of a Nabatean king) then the field of tombs, obelisks, and the altar, (Al Madhbah) from this point you can view the whole of the rock city. At 12:30 we will stop for lunch and then at 1:30 head to the King Hussein / Allenby bridge border to return to Israel. We will arrive about 5:00 p.m and make our way up to Jerusalem stopping at Mt Scopus for our first view of the “Golden City”. Check into your hotel. Dinner and overnight.
Overnight: Jerusalem, Israel
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 8 - Tuesday, September 24, 2024
Breakfast at your hotel. Today we will walk where Jesus walked. Start with a panoramic view of the city, Mount Moriah, and the Dome of the Rock from atop the Mount of Olives and then the Garden of Gethsemane for a special prayer service. From here we make our way to visit Absalom's Pillar, the Tomb of Zechariah and the Tomb of Benei Hezir. We will make a stop for tea or cold water in an ancient-styled tent before walking down the Kidron Valley and enter Hezekiah's Tunnel by the Gihon Plaza. We conclude our tour at the famous Siloam Pool. Next, we visit the House of Caiaphas where Jesus was beaten and spit upon. See a pit where he may have been held for the evening and the ancient hillside steps he walked as he was taken to be condemned. Continue to the "Upper Room" just outside the Zion Gate where the disciple whom Jesus loved laid his head on His breast and where later Thomas cried, "My Lord & my God." Our tour continues walking along the winding room which leads us down toward the Kotel Plaza. Return to your hotel for dinner and overnight.
Overnight: Jerusalem, Israel
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 9 - Wednesday, September 25, 2024.
After breakfast Conditions permitting we will visit the Temple Mount, with commentary on the Temple Periods, and the variety of belief systems past and present that make this area so valuable. Next we will visit the Wailing Wall and then the fascinating Rabbinical Tunnels leading us through the Second Temple era. The tunnel and exhibit give a clear understanding of the amazing construction of the Temple Mount, giant stones, water supply and Roman street where our Lord was led to judgment. Before exiting the tunnel we see the immense cornerstone rejected by the builders. This afternoon we visit the Southern Wall Excavations. This southern side of The Temple was the main entrance for the common folk, whereas the Priests and Levites had their own entrance from the higher eastern side. Parts of the giant stairs, which led to the Temple Mount from the courtyard have been unearthed along with the purification pools. From here Jesus entered the Temple Mount and drove out the vendors and money exchangers who were exploiting the people. It is also likely that this is the place where Peter stood and preached and where thousands were saved and baptized on the Day of Pentecost. Return to the hotel for dinner and overnight.
Overnight: Jerusalem, Israel
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 10 - Thursday, September 26, 2024
After an early breakfast, we will make our way thru the Judean Hills to the lowest point on earth, the Dead Sea. Our first stop will be Qumran where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered. We then continue to Masada. Take the cable car ride up to the mountain top the fortress. Here our guide will tell us to the history of the famous zealot stand. Afterward, we proceed to Ein Gedi "Spring of the Goat", an oasis on the western shore of the Dead Sea. Because of its warm climate and abundant supply of water, the site developed a reputation for its fragrant plants and date palm groves. This is where King David hid from Saul, and where God defeated the enemies of the Israelites by praise and worship led by King Jehoshaphat. From here we will now make our way up to Jerusalem. Check into your hotel for dinner and overnight.
Overnight: Jerusalem, Israel
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 11 - Friday, September 27, 2024
After breakfast, we will make our way to the Israel Museum. Walk through collections of centuries-old Israeli artifacts including the Dead Sea Scrolls, and then a guided walk through an accurately detailed model of Biblical Jerusalem. Next stop at Yad Vashem the Memorial Museum dedicated to the Jewish people killed during the Holocaust. We will now leave the city and make our way to Beit Guvrin National Park. Here we will encounter the Bell Caves, the columbarium caves that served to rear pigeons and to make ancient crafts, Sidonian burial caves, and more. All were quarried by man, hundreds of thousands of years ago. As a result, this area received the name “the Land of Thousand Caves”. We will return back to Jerusalem and end our time in the Holy Land in the area of Golgotha (place of the skull) and the Garden Tomb. Here we celebrate the resurrection with communion and a time of prayer and reflection. Return to the hotel and prepare for our final dinner in Israel.
Overnight: Jerusalem, Israel
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 12 - Saturday, September 28, 2024
Depart for Home
Gate 1 Travel itineraries may contain suggestions for activities for your leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently.
This first class hotel is located in the heart of Netanya, on Israel's Mediterranean coast.
Hotel Details
This first class hotel is located on the shores of the Sea of Galilee in a tranquil setting.
Hotel Details
- Tours purchased while travelling may cost an extra 10% or more
- Tours often sell out. Avoid disappointment
- Save your cash. Credit card processing may not be possible locally
- Travel insurance only covers services purchased prior to departure
- Book Online or call to book these tours up to 1 week before your departure
- The day the optionals operate varies by the day of the week
| Know Before You Go | |
| 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. |
| Getting Ready to Go |
| Passports and Visas |
| It is each traveler's responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the dates of travel 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. IMPORTANT: Passengers who are not U.S. citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passengers who enter, leave and then re-enter the same country on their itinerary should check if they require a double-entry visa. Passport applications are available at most U.S. Post Offices, as well as at regional Passport Agencies. Passengers requiring visas, whether obtained in advance or locally upon arrival, should ensure that their passport has blank pages.
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| Traveling with Friends or Family? |
| If you are traveling with friends or family who are booked on another reservation, please make sure that we are aware. On occasion, we may operate more than one vehicle on your tour departure in which case we will ensure that guests will be assigned together. This is achieved by connecting your reservations before your departure. Once you arrive in your destination, it may not be possible to make assignment changes. To check that your reservations are linked, log into https://www.gate1travel.com/res with your email and password, select your reservation number, and check to see that your reservations are indicated as "Traveling With" at the top right side of the display. |
| 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, driver's license) are in order. Make sure also that you have enough prescription medications to last through the trip and carry them with you in case your luggage is delayed. Bring a change of clothes in your carry-on bag in the event that your luggage is delayed or lost. Lost luggage is common. We strongly urge you to consider carry-ons instead of checked bags when possible, and when checking a bag is necessary, choose a bag color and identification that stands out. We suggest that you make photocopies of passports, visas, personal ID and any other important travel documents and pack them separately from the originals. You may also make a digital copy of your passport to keep a clear picture with the important details in your cell phone or digital camera photos. If you lose the originals while traveling, you'll have copies for easier reporting and replacement. Pack a list of medications including dosage and generic names. You may consider bringing a small supply of over the counter medications for headaches and/or anti-diarrhea pills (especially when traveling outside of the USA and Western Europe). We recommend that you pack a portable alarm clock. Due to security reasons, many museums have restrictions on the size of bags that can be taken inside and backpacks, carry-on bags or large purses may not be permitted. It is recommended to bring a small shoulder bag or purse to use in these situations instead. Avoid placing valuables such as cameras in your checked luggage. Airplane pressure can cause similar pressure in your body, most notably in ears, as well as liquid tubes and bottles. Your physician can suggest medication for decongestion. We suggest that you place liquid containers into Ziploc bags to catch any leaks. |
| Travel Safety Advice: The safety of our guests is Gate 1’s #1 concern. Before making the decision to reserve your vacation, we want you to be aware of potential situations which may impact your holiday. While most of the time our programs run precisely according to plans, on rare occasion force majeure events including weather, transportation mechanical issues, or uninhabitable accommodation, civil unrest and even criminal or terrorist activities will present themselves unexpectedly and with little or no notice. Gate 1 will make the decision to cancel a tour only after receiving verifiable government issued information. We are otherwise obliged to comply with contractual airline and vendor agreements and carry out the tour until or unless we are advised otherwise. In the event of such an occurrence anytime after your date of departure, Gate 1 and the local destination ground staff, in coordination with government advisories, airlines, hotels, cruise ships and other vendors, will make decisions with regard to your safety first. We strongly recommend that tour participants review the destination country's specific information at https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings.html. |
| Travel Protection |
| Even the best-planned trips can be impacted by the unexpected. And that is why we recommend that you help protect yourself and your investment by purchasing Travel Protection for your Gate 1 trip. Travel Protection can help with medical coverage for illness or injury, trip cancellation and/or interruption, baggage loss, medical evacuation, and more. At any time before you complete Final Payment, you may choose to purchase Travel Protection. The protection plan premium is non-refundable after a 10-day review period. In addition, you must be medically able to travel at the time the premium is paid. For a summary of the plan details on coverages, benefits, limitations and exclusions, please refer to the Description of Coverage by visiting www.gate1travel.com/insurance/. Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit (CFAR) is a non-insurance feature that allows you to cancel up to 72 hours before your scheduled departure for any reason not otherwise covered in the Travel Protection Plan. CFAR must be purchased at the same time as the Travel Protection Plan as well as within 21 days of the original booking date. Independent or escorted tour reservations will be eligible for a future travel credit equal to the full cost of your trip, less the cost of initial deposit, airline-assessed fees, amendment fees, and insurance premium. Sea or river cruise reservations will be eligible for a future travel credit equal to 50% of the cost of your trip, less the cost of initial trip deposit, airline-assessed fees, amendment fees, and insurance premium. All CFAR credits are valid for a period of two years from the original date of travel. CFAR Credits have no cash value and are not transferrable. Airline-assessed fees are generally $300 per person, but may be as much as fully non-refundable. Some non-refundable airline tickets may retain value, less airline-assessed fees. Your future air credit must be used to book with the same airline. Deadlines to rebook and complete travel vary by airline and may be as early as 12 months from when the tickets were originally issued (not the date of travel). For details, www.gate1travel.com/insurance/. This program does not apply to custom groups and Antarctica cruises. Residents of New York, Missouri & Minnesota may purchase this Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit separate from Travel Protection. Call to speak with a reservation agent for details. This Cancel for any Reason Wavier Benefit is not insurance and is provided by Gate 1 Travel. |
| Mobile Phones |
| Mobile networks differ from country to country. We recommend you check with your provider to see if your wireless plan will work in the destination(s) you are visiting. To avoid possible roaming charges, you may want to consider purchasing an international plan. With most major phone companies, for a modest fee, you will be able to use your domestic plan's talk, text, and data allowances just like you do at home. If you can access the internet while you travel, you can also take advantage of services such as WhatsApp or Skype. |
| 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), Hong Kong and Cambodia (001), Australia (0011), and Russia (8 Pause 10*). For Brazil, 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. For most countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, South America and South Pacific, if you are calling from a local phone to a number within the same country, you should drop both the exit and country codes and then add a leading 0 (zero). Exceptions include Spain, Italy, Hungary and Malta (no additional zero needed to dial locally). 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 From a German phone within Germany: 0555-555 |
| WiFi Access |
| WiFi is available in most airports, hotels, and cruise lines, as well as on some flights, trains, and buses. There may be a fee for access and service quality and speed may vary greatly especially while on moving vehicles. Availability on cruises is also dependent upon its location while sailing through multiple countries. Please note that WiFi can be extremely slow, unreliable, and sometimes nonexistent in developing countries. |
| Staying Healthy While Traveling |
| All travelers should familiarize themselves with local conditions, such as high altitude or required immunizations, which could affect their health. We recommend you consult with your personal healthcare provider, the Centers for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov) and/or the World Health Organization (http://www.who.int/en/) for their recommendations. There are several easy steps you can take to stay healthy while traveling which may help prevent contracting an illness while away from home.
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| Notice on Aircraft Cabin Insecticide Treatment - Please note that some countries may require aircraft cabin insecticide treatment for in-bound foreign flights. A list of such countries is available at:
http://www.dot.gov/office-policy/aviation-policy/aircraft-disinsection-requirements. |
| Consideration for Tour Participants (Escorted Tours) |
For the benefit of all tour participants, we ask tour members to be considerate of their fellow travelers in the following ways:
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| Climate & Clothing |
| Israel - Spring: 60°F-90°F, Summer: 70°F-100°F, Autumn: 60°F-80°F, Winter: 45°F-70°F. Rainfall typically only in winter months/10 days maximum/year. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, bathing suit, clothes you can layer and an all-weather coat. In the heat of summer, bring sunscreen and a hat. Make sure to bring appropriate attire for religious sites (pants, shorts or skirts past the knee and no sleeveless shirts or blouses). Israel Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/mediterranean/default.aspx#israel-weather |
| 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. Jordan Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/mediterranean/default.aspx |
| About Drones |
| Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) or “drone” technology has quickly become affordable and is increasingly popular with recreational users. While some countries have clear, established drone laws, others do not, or existing regulations are undergoing review and change. Travelers who wish to bring a drone on their trip are responsible to research and abide by the laws and regulations of the countries they are visiting, as well as to check with their airline(s) regarding their rules for transporting drones. Please note that tours are unable to extend the length of scheduled visits and stops to accommodate use of drones. |
| Preparing for Your Trip |
| Seat Assignments |
| As a courtesy service, complimentary airline seat assignments are requested on your behalf and, when available, are displayed in order of Passenger #1, #2 and so on. Assignments reflect the best available seats at the time of booking. Some airlines and/or fare types do not allow for pre-seating and require this be done at airport check-in only; in which case the display shows “N/A”. Seats are subject to change by your airline(s) including, for example, when there is a schedule change or equipment change after your initial booking; this may cause seat assignments to be changed or even cancelled. Some airlines offer preferred seating for an additional fee; these seats may only be purchased directly from the airline. You will need your family name and the 6-digit airline “Record Locator” which is displayed with the flight details on your reservation. In the event that you change seat assignments directly with your airline, changes will not be reflected on your invoice or documents. At the time that Gate 1 travel documents are issued, the currently assigned seats will be listed based on the assignments stored in your airline reservation at that time. Should you have questions regarding your assignments, please write to us at www.gate1travel.com/contactus. |
| Luggage & Packing |
| Checked bags are typically limited to a total dimension of 62 inches by adding length + width + height (example: 26"+26"+10" = 62”), and a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23kg). Smart Bags with a USB charging port, GPS tracking device and other high-tech features are prohibited as checked or carry-on baggage unless the bag is made with removable batteries and the batteries are removed and stored separately. Many airlines charge for checked bags including flights which begin and end within the USA. The most inexpensive airfare options commonly known as Basic Economy airfares do not include any checked bags nor seat assignments before the day of departure. However, for some airlines, other airfare categories also do not include checked baggage. This will be clearly displayed in our airfare selection and on your invoice. Where available, we highly recommend selecting airfares which include at least 1 piece of checked baggage. Gate 1 Travel is not responsible for checked bag fees, excess luggage or weight charges levied by an airline. Checked baggage allowances displayed on reservation details and invoices reflect the applicable allowance at the time of booking but are subject to change by your airline(s). For your airline’s requirements and fees, visit www.gate1travel.com/baggagefees.aspx. For important baggage information, visit www.gate1travel.com/luggage.aspx. Avoid placing valuables in your checked luggage. Federal law forbids the carriage of hazardous materials aboard the aircraft in your luggage, your carry-on or on your person. A violation can result in five years’ imprisonment and penalties of $250,000 or more (49 U.S.C. 5124). Hazardous materials include explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids and solids, oxidizers, poisons, corrosives and radioactive materials. Examples: Paints, lighter fluid, fireworks, tear gases, oxygen bottles, and radio-pharmaceuticals. There are special exceptions for small quantities (up to 70 ounces total) of medicinal and toilet articles carried in your luggage and certain smoking materials carried on your person. Check the Transportation and Safety Administration (TSA) website www.tsa.gov to find out the current list of acceptable items you may bring on a plane before packing. We recommend that you use brightly colored luggage tags, straps or other identifiers to help you locate you luggage upon arrival or to describe it in the event that it is lost. |
| Day of Departure |
| Flight Services |
| What to do if You Need Assistance |
Whether you purchased your airfare from Gate 1 Travel or from the airline directly, please bear in mind that Gate 1 Travel does not own nor operate the airline(s), nor the airport facilities where they operate. At times, flying can be a frustrating experience, especially when things do not go exactly as planned, and airline explanations can be confusing or even misleading. Should you face a problem, remain calm and seek assistance either from the airline directly or from Gate 1. Please be aware that in most cases, on the day of your flight(s), airlines pass responsibility for your reservation to their staff at the airport and it is not always possible for Gate 1 Travel to intervene on your behalf, either through our reservations system or directly with your airline. |
| Arrival & Departure |
| Arrival Procedures |
| Upon arrival, please complete immigration formalities if necessary 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 collecting your luggage or 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. If you are delayed due to lost luggage, phone the number on the voucher or have a companion exit the Customs Area to advise the transfer representative. |
| Important: Israel B2 Stay Permit ("Electronic Gate Pass") Upon arrival in Israel at Passport Control, you will receive an Israel Border Control / B2 Stay Permit called an "Electronic Gate Pass". Issuance of the pass replaces the need to stamp your passport. The Electronic Gate Pass is your official form of identification in Israel and must be kept in your possession at all times, and will be relinquished once you depart the country. Escorted tour group guests should bring this pass to the Welcome Meeting as your Tour Manager must record information from it to facilitate express hotel check-in during your tour. Failure to provide this pass at check-in will result in mandatory tax. |
| 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, the better we can respond. Please refer to the Emergency Assistance instructions on this same document. 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 you 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. The cost of a transfer is more expensive than hiring a taxi, as a Gate 1 transfer necessarily includes round trip service, or 'dead-leg'. Often the places of call (airports, seaports, hotels) demand entrance and parking fees, where drivers may have to wait for up to an hour. Passengers comfortable hiring a taxi on their own and do not require assistance will save money. |
| About Your Accommodations |
| Hotels |
| Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each hotel based on overall quality, location, price, food, service, and cleanliness. All rooms are standard twin-bedded (two single beds) rooms with private facilities. Special requests such as bed types, smoking preference and connecting rooms are subject to availability. Room selection in all cases, unless otherwise reserved, is strictly at the discretion of the hotel's management on a run-of-house basis. Triple rooms consist of standard twin beds or one double bed plus a sofa/folding bed or cot for third person except in the U.S. and Canada, where triple rooms often consist of two double/queen beds for three persons; where available, a fee may be charged by the hotel for the addition of a cot/rollaway. The number of persons accommodated does not dictate the room size. Although available at most 4 and 5 star hotels, the use of air-conditioning abroad differs greatly from the United States, and is often shut down at night and from the end until the start of the summer months. Some lodges and accommodations in remote regions may not have all of the amenities, such as hairdryer, alarm clock and room service, that you might find in a larger hotel located in a city center. |
| Hotel Check-in/ Check-out |
| Hotel check-in time is generally not before 4:00 p.m. and check-out time is prior to 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. |
| At Your Destination |
| 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 and learn about foreign cultures, we ask first and foremost that you practice tolerance and respect for local customs. |
| Gratuities |
| Tipping is always a matter of personal discretion. For your convenience, please use the summary below as a guideline for recommended gratuity amounts. Gratuities may be paid in local currency or US dollar equivalent where accepted. Please be aware that 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 manager or phone our local office. Numbers are provided in your documents for your convenience. |
| Suggested Tipping: Israel |
Tour Manager: US $10 per person per day Driver (Provides chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage) : US $5 per person per day, US $3 per half day Hotel porters and wait staff: Included |
| Israel - Restaurants (not included in package): Although bills normally include a service charge, it is customary to tip in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. 12% is customary for good service. |
| Jordan - Hotels and restaurants that are frequented mostly by tourists will add a gratuity to your bill and additional tipping is at your discretion. At smaller establishments it is customary to tip according to the level of service received. Taxi drivers do not expect a gratuity and rounding up to the nearest dinar is usually sufficient. |
| About Your Sightseeing |
| To ensure a pleasant and fair experience for passengers on our escorted tours, there is a mandatory seat rotation policy on our motor coaches which will be organized by your Tour Manager. On river cruises, color-coded group splits may be used for shoreside included and Optional tours. Some buses are equipped with toilet facility, however they are strictly intended for emergency use only and often require the vehicle to stop for safety reasons before use. When travel dates coincide with religious holidays and national celebrations, some monuments and sites may be closed, sometimes without prior notice. On these occasions, escorted touring itineraries may be amended to reflect these closures. Occasionally, during holidays and certain periods, and/or due to other unforeseen circumstances including weather conditions, there may be last-minute changes, sometimes after arrival, which may affect the sequence of the tour and locations visited. National monuments and tourist sites regularly undergo renovations, which can obscure the monument's view. No tour will be canceled due to renovations, however Gate 1 will decide based on the conditions whether to amend an itinerary. To respect the privacy of all tour participants, your tour manager will not organize a group photo or collect passenger email addresses for a group list. |
| Jordan - It is forbidden by law to bring and use binoculars. |
| 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 check-in. The details of the hotel can be found in your documents. |
| 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. https://www.gate1travel.com/terms.aspx#optional |
| Independent Activities - Gate 1 itineraries may contain suggestions for activities for your leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently and with due consideration. Gate 1 is not responsible for any activities not expressly included in its programs. Caution should be exercised when selecting certain activities that may require physical strength, coordination or exertion. Particular care should be taken when considering animal rides, such as on camels, mules or horses |
| Israel - The Shekel is the currency of Israel. Also, many vendors will accept payment in U.S. dollars, however expect change in local currency. We suggest that you carry small denomination bills for tipping and shopping. |
| Jordan - The Jordanian Dinar is the currency of Jordan. |
| Shopping |
| Most people enjoy bringing home at least one souvenir from the countries they visit. However, some find any amount of shopping to be too much while others never find enough opportunities. We have built into our Escorted itineraries a few shopping stops at recommended spots. These stops are designed to enhance your experience by providing an opportunity to see first-hand quality locally crafted merchandise which you may not be able to find on your own. Shops are checked to ensure the quality and authenticity of the products they offer, and we limit guides from visiting other locations. In some cases, we plan these stops to provide an opportunity to use clean bathrooms and to stretch your legs. All shops want your satisfaction, and therefore in case of any misunderstanding they ask that you kindly submit your claim to us within one week of the item's receipt. Claims submitted later will be subject to each store’s policies. While shopping independently, 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! About Tax-Free Shopping Tax-Free Shopping allows shoppers to reclaim the VAT (Value-Added Tax) or GST (Goods and Services Tax) they have paid on their purchases in some foreign countries in accordance with restrictions and procedures as dictated by each country. Refund eligibility varies by country, but may require presenting a scanned copy of your passport at the time of purchase, a minimum amount spent, or providing original store receipts. For more details, check the respective country’s online website, with the shop salesperson, with your tour manager or at www.globalblue.com for specific country regulations and airport operation hours. Please keep in mind that you must apply for VAT refund in the airport of the country the items were purchased and allow enough time prior to your flight for the application. U.S. Customs & Shipping Charges You may carry items with a fair retail value totaling $800 into the U.S. Taxes may be applied to the next $1,000 worth of merchandise. U.S. Customs determines the value of your items, often honoring a genuine sales receipt. Items which are shipped home are always subject to duty when received in the U.S. (in addition to shipping charges). Some shops may offer to include shipping and duties in the price but this typically means shipping only to the customs facility closest to you and payment only of the export duties; you would still need to collect the item and pay U.S. import duties. Please be aware that it is illegal to import products made from endangered animal species. U.S. Customs & Border Protection will seize these items, as well as most furs, coral, tortoise shell, reptile skins, feathers, plants, and items made from animal skins. |
| 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. |
| Jordan - Shops and bazaars offer a wide array of interesting and beautiful items, including intricate sand art, ornate cotton wares, jewelry, glass, inlaid woodwork, and ceramics goods. With some vendors, you may experience high-pressure sales, and haggling is acceptable. |
| Your Safety is Very Important |
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Prior to your trip, if you are traveling overseas, we strongly recommend that you visit the website of the U.S. Department of State at www.travel.state.gov, specifically the section which addresses International Travel. You should read the tips for foreign travel and travel warnings for the country or countries that you plan to visit. It is also important that you do not allow your common sense to take a vacation while on your trip. Here are several tips which, if followed, will save much potential hardship:
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. |
| Tourist Street Scams |
Pickpockets and thieves can destroy an otherwise wonderful holiday. Be mindful of these precautions to help avoid being scammed or robbed:
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| Local Emergency Phone Numbers |
Israel
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Jordan
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| Languages |
| Israel - Hebrew and Arabic are the official languages. English is generally spoken throughout the country. |
| Jordan - Arabic is the local language. Limited 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. |
| Israel - The voltage used is 230 volts. Israeli sockets are usually 3-pronged, and foreign-made appliances generally require an adapter. |
| Jordan - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Code of Conduct |
| Jordan - 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. |
| Meals & Dietary Requests |
| Included meals are based on the restaurant's buffet or set menu. Beverages are not included, unless specifically stated. Although special diets like Vegetarian and Vegan are relatively commonplace in the USA, much of the world's menu options are more provincial. Please do not expect to find the variety of food selection outside of the local norm. Every effort will be made to honor special dietary requests selected no later than 5 days prior to departure in the passenger details section of your reservation. In addition, we recommend that you make preferences known to your tour manager upon arrival, and at each hotel/restaurant. Special requests are subject to local conditions and availability and cannot be guaranteed. |
| Jordan - While it is generally safe to eat fully cooked meats and vegetables, care should be taken to avoid undercooked meat and uncooked fruits and vegetables. Because tap water is not potable, visitors should only drink bottled water or water that has been boiled and filtered. Avoid ice, as it is usually made from tap water. |
| Holidays |
| On public holidays, there may be reduced public transportation, as well as limited hours or closures of attractions, shops and restaurants. |
| Holidays - Israel |
Holidays 2023 Mar 7: Purim Mar 8: Shushan Purim Apr 6-12: Pesach (Passover) Apr 18: Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Memorial Day) Apr 26: Yom Ha'Atzmaut (Israel Independence Day) May 25-26: Shavu'ot (Pentecost) Jul 27: Tisha B'Av Sep 16-17: Rosh Hashana (New Year) Sep 25: Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement) Sep 30-Oct 6: Sukkot (Feast of Tabernacles) Oct 7: Simini Atzeret / Simchat Torah Dec 8-15: Hanukkah Holidays 2024 Mar 8: Shushan Purim Mar 23-24: Purim Apr 23-29: Pesach (Passover) May 6: Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Memorial Day) May 14: Yom Ha'Atzmaut (Israel Independence Day) Jun 11-12: Shavu'ot (Pentecost) Oct 3-4: Rosh Hashana (New Year) Oct 12: Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement) Oct 17-24: Sukkot (Feast of Tabernacles) Oct 24: Simini Atzeret / Simchat Torah Dec 26-31: Hanukkah Please note that Jewish holidays are based on a lunar calendar, and exact dates depend on local sightings of the moon. Because of this, actual dates may vary from the dates given above. During local holidays, opening and closing times for historic and cultural sites can vary depending on the holiday. 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. Traffic congestion is common during Ramadan. Due to Friday prayers in the month of Ramadan, changes in the order of the sightseeing itinerary may be necessary. |
| Holidays - Jordan |
Holidays 2023 Jan 1: New Year's Day Feb 28: Prophets Ascension Apr 7: Good Friday Apr 10: Easter Monday Apr 22-25: Eid al-Fitr* May 1: Labor Day May 25: Independence Day Jun 28: Arafah Jun 29-Jul 2: Eid al-Adha (Sacrifice Feast)* Jul 19: Islamic New Year* Sep 27: Mawlid (Celebration of the Prophet's Birthday)* Dec 25: Christmas Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Day Mar 29: Good Friday Mar 31:Easter Sunday Apr 1: Easter Monday Apr 10-13: Eid al-Fitr* (End of Ramadan) May 1: Labor Day May 25: Independence Day Jun 15: Arafah Jun 16-19: Eid al-Adha (Sacrifice Feast)* Jul 7: Islamic New Year* Sep 15: Mawlid (Celebration of the Prophet's Birthday)* Dec 25: Christmas *Please note that Islamic holidays are based on a lunar calendar, and exact dates depend on local sightings of the moon. Because of this, actual dates may vary from the dates given above. During Ramadan, historic and cultural sites may close early and operate with minimal staff. The order of sightseeing may be changed to accommodate the holiday observance. Traffic congestion is common during Ramadan. Some hotels and restaurants may not serve alcoholic beverages. Entertainment may be limited to be respectful of the holiday observance. Modest dress is suggested during Ramadan (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Use discretion when drinking, eating, and smoking in public between sunrise and sunset. Consider keeping drinks and snacks in your hotel room that you may consume in private. Friday and Saturday are the official weekly holiday. Tourist services usually remain open, though banks and some businesses are closed. Christians attend religious services on Sundays. |
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