HSP - Kevin & Sam Sorbo Israel - Coach 1
Featured Hotels
| Custom | ||
|---|---|---|
| VERT Lagoon Hotel Netanya | Netanya | |
| Gai Beach Hotel | Tiberias | |
| VERT Hotel Jerusalem | Jerusalem | |
Not Included:
Transfers, Insurance, gratuities, and anything not mentioned in the 'Package Includes'.
There is no refund for unused services.
Additional Information:
A $500 non-refundable deposit is due per person to create a reservation
Final payment date: 90 Days Prior to departure (Jan 15, 2027)
Cancel Terms:
Once a partial or full payment has been made, cancellations will only be accepted in writing. Cancellation terms will be applied based on the date that the written cancellation is received and based on the following dates prior to departure.
Passengers submit their cancellation to "Cancel Reservation" in the Contact Us page: gate1travel.com/contactus
Up to 91 Days Prior to Departure (14 FEB 2027): $500 Per Person
90 to 61 Days Prior to Departure (15 FEB-16 MAR): 50% of Land Cost & 100% of Air Cost
60 to 31 Days Prior to Departure (17 MAR-15 APR): 75% of Land Cost & 100% of Air Cost
30 Days or Less Prior to Departure /No-Show (16 APR 2027): 100% of All Services
Hotel check-in is 3 PM
If you have an early arrival and want to check-in prior to 3 PM, you may pre-purchase an additional hotel night.
Hotel check-out is 11 AM
Passengers booked on PM flights will not have a hotel room for the duration of the day.
If you wish to book a pre or post night, please contact our office. Price and availability are subject to change until booking.
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.
PASSENGERS MUST APPLY TO ETA-IL 60 DAYS PRIOR TO DEPARTURE FOR VISA TO ENTER ISRAEL. COST AS OF AUG 2025 $7 (subject to change)
Visa is valid for 2 years
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. Also consult our Health page for information on vaccines and documentation required for entry.
Package Includes:
- 9 nights accommodations:
- 1 night Netanya, Israel
- 3 nights Tiberias, Israel
- 5 nights Jerusalem, Israel
- 18 meals: 9 Breakfast, 9 Dinner
- Sightseeing per itinerary in modern air-conditioned motor coach
- Services of English-speaking tour escort/manager
- Entrance fees – Northern Border, Golan Heights, Temple Mount, Israel Parliament
National Park Ticket, Masada Cable Car, Dead Sea, Egypt.Israel, Gaza Border - Tips to Guide/Driver & Hotel Staff
- Headsets for enhanced touring
- 2 Bottles of water per touring day
- Porterage of one piece per person on arrival and departure at each hotel
Additional Information:
- Cash Discount: If you should choose to pay by cash/check your final invoice will reflect a 5% discount.
Not Included:
Transfers, Insurance, gratuities, and anything not mentioned in the 'Package Includes'.
There is no refund for unused services.
This mission is a focused, strategic, and deeply purposeful journey through Israel’s historic landscapes, frontline communities, and critical security zones. Participants will engage with guest speakers on security, defense, and regional challenges to gain a firsthand understanding of Israel’s defense and the resilience of its people. Because this mission includes visits to sensitive and secure areas, many key sites cannot be publicly disclosed in this itinerary and will be revealed closer to departure. All participants will undergo security vetting to ensure program integrity and safety.
Among the many sites visited, there will also be significant biblical and spiritual locations — most notably the Sea of Galilee and the Jordan River — offering opportunities for those who wish to draw closer to their source of faith, reflect, pray, or have a devotion.
Though this is a tight itinerary with many scheduled visits, there will still be time to have fun, enjoy excellent meals in good locations — especially street food and open-air markets — and build friendships that will last a lifetime.
This is not a tourism trip. It is a fact-finding, activism, and advocacy mission designed to equip you with the knowledge, connections, and resolve to support Israel and Western security effectively.
Day 1, Sunday, May 16, 2027
If you make your own flight arrangements, be sure to arrive in Israel in the afternoon of May 17th. Flying from the US is an overnight flight, requiring you to leave on May 16th
Day 2, Monday, May 17, 2027
Welcome Home! Next stop-the white sandy Mediterranean beaches of Tel Aviv.
This evening: Meet & greet in our beachfront hotel
Overnight: Tel Aviv, Israel
Meal: Dinner
Day 3, Tuesday, May 18, 2027
After breakfast we will have our first day orientation meeting. We will meet our tour leaders, guides, staff and each other. Time to get on the road. We being with a visit to Shiloh, the ancient biblical city which was the first capital of Israel. The city existed almost consecutively from the Israeli period up to the middle ages due to its sanctity and status. We will visit this unique and ancient site, hear the history of Shiloh throughout the generations and see with our own eyes the ancient ruins and the place where the tabernacle stood until it was destroyed by the Philistines. Next we will arrive 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, Roman theatre, and aqueduct where Paul made his defense before Festus and King Agrippa prior to his final journey to Rome.
We end our tour with a great multimedia explanation of the history of the port. Our next stop is Mount Carmel (Mukraka), where Elijah issued his challenge to the false prophet.
Continue along the Jezerel Valley to visit the town of Nazareth.
We will take a beautiful view from the top of Mount Precipice, also known as Mount of Precipitation or Mount of Leap of the Lord. It is believed to be the site of the rejection of Jesus. Continue to the city to the Basilica of Annunciation that church that celebrates the news from Gabriel that Mary would give birth to Jesus.
Our final visit of the day will be Cana of Galilee where Jesus performed his first public miracle, the turning of water into wine at the wedding feast.
We continue to our hotel in Tiberias. Dinner and overnight.
Overnight: Tiberias
Meal: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 4 Wednesday – May 19, 2027
After breakfast we will make our way to the northern border where will arrive to Kibbutz Misgav Am, one of the border communities overlooking Lebanon. We will receive an up-to-date briefing on the situation in the north. We will now drive to Banias – ancient Ceasarea Philippi – where Jesus said “On this rock, I will build my Church”.
Continue to the beautiful Golan Heights before returning back to the Sea of Galilee. Dinner and overnight.
Overnight: Sea of Galilee
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 5, Thursday, May 20, 2027
After breakfast, we will make our way to our wooden boat and sail on the Sea of Galilee as the disciples did over 2,000 years ago. The Sea of Galilee, where the Lord calmed the storm and where He made one of the most dramatic miracles, walking on the water. It was here 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 nets to the right side of the boat and caught many fish and where He made the disciples breakfast. We will dock at Ginosar and visit the “ancient Jesus boat”, the remains which dated back 2,000 year and was discovered during a drought in 1986.
Jesus spent most of his ministry in what has been called “The Evangelical Triangle”. It is the area covering the biblical cities of Capernaum, Korazin and Bethsaida. Today, we will make our walk through these same biblical cities. Jesus chose to make his home in Capernaum. We will stand in what is left of the synagogue in which Jesus ministered, and where he performed many miracles. It is here that Peter’s mother-in-law lived and was healed. Chorazin (Korazin) next on our agenda, the town that was rebuked by Jesus for its lack of faith. The last stop on the triangle is Bethsaida, the place where Jesus was active as a preacher and healer. We close out our day with the opportunity to be baptized at the Jordan River Baptismal site.
Return back to our hotel for dinner and overnight.
Overnight: Sea of Galilee
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 6, Friday, May 21, 2027
After breakfast, we will make a stop in Magdala, hometown of Mary Magdalene. The recent excavation of the First Century Synagogue and preserved village makes Magdala one of the most interesting Biblical sites in Israel. Now it is time to begin our journey southward to Beit-Shean/Scythopolis, the most magnificent archeological site in Israel, located at the strategic juncture of the Jezreel and Jordan valleys.
Like Jericho, it has been almost continuously occupied throughout history. After defeating Saul and his sons on Mt. Gilboa, the Philistines hanged their bodies on the walls of Beit-Shean. During the time of Jesus, Scythopolis was one of the chief cities of the Decapolis - a league of ten cities sharing Greek culture and government. Following the fertile Jordan Valley southward, your guide will point out the agricultural restoration of the “Land of Milk and Honey” and Israel’s intricate irrigation development from the new Dead Sea Lookout. Visit ancient Jericho, the oldest in the world. To the east of Jericho along the Jordan River Valley (Queser El Yehud) is the Israeli side of Bethany Beyond the Jordan. In this area Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist, Elijah and Elisha crossed the Jordan, as well as where the children of Israel, led by Joshua, entered the Promised Land. Drive up to Jerusalem and check into your hotel.
This evening, we will partake in a most fervent “Kabalat Shabbat” service – the receiving of the Sabbath service at the Western Wall. Here we will mingle with thousands of Jerusalem Jews in praise & worship, this place is the only remnant of the temple atop Moriah.
This is “a not to be missed event” where young and old worship in song and dance in a way most never experienced before. This will follow with a traditional Shabbat Dinner.
Overnight: Jerusalem
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 7, Saturday, May 22, 2027
After breakfast, we will make our way down to the lowest point on earth, the Dead Sea. Driving along the winding road of the Dead Sea we arrive to Masada.
Take the cable car ride up to the mountain top fortress where your guide will treat you to the history of the famous zealot stand. Afterward 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.
Next, we visit Qumran Caves where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered, and then time to enjoy the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea
.
We make our way back to our hotel.
Overnight: Jerusalem, Israel
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 8, Sunday, May 23, 2027
After breakfast, we will make our way to the City of David to see a film, its Canaanite and Israelite ruins, Jeremiah’s Cistern, King David’s palace, an optional walk thru Hezekiah’s Water Tunnel, view recently discovered 2nd Temple Road, finishing at the Pool of Siloam where Jesus healed a blind man. Take the new underground tunnel 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 that Peter stood and preached and where thousands were saved and baptized on the Day of Pentecost.
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.
We will visit the Western 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.
Overnight: Jerusalem
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 9, Monday, May 24, 2027
Journey to the Gaza Envelope, communities within a few kilometers of the Gaza border. Fortified schools, playgrounds with bomb shelters, and resilient gardens illustrate daily life under constant threat.
Visit Sderot, meeting residents — children, parents, and elders — sharing personal stories of survival. Walk streets marked by past attacks, seeing both the scars of conflict and symbols of resilience.
Explore kibbutzim affected by October 7 — Netiv HaAsara, Be’eri, Kfar Aza, and Kisufim. Witness damaged structures, memorials, and hear survivors’ raw stories. Pause at the NOVA music festival site to honor young lives lost.
Meet both civilians and military personnel, observing the courage that unites the community. Conclude at a controlled vantage point overlooking Gaza, reflecting silently, or praying amidst the view of ongoing conflict.
Return to Jerusalem for a stroll along Ben Yehuda Street, experiencing vibrant cafés, street performers, and shops — a reminder that life and joy persist even in the shadow of hardship.
Overnight: Jerusalem
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 10, Tuesday, May 25, 2027
Breakfast at your hotel. Our final day in Jerusalem we will walk where Jesus walked; beginning the day 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. Walk between the ancient olive trees, read the scriptures of Jesus' prayer, and take time for personal reflection is important here.
Passing by the Protestant Cemetery, we visit 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." While walking along the Via Dolorosa, we are reminded of His way of suffering along with a visit to the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. Our guide will explain the differing opinions on the route that Christ was led and the actual place of crucifixion and burial is a very interesting study.
The climax of the day is the area of Golgotha (place of the skull) and the Garden Tomb, where we celebrate the resurrection with communion and a time of praise. Return to your hotel for your final dinner.
Overnight: Jerusalem, Israel
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 11, Wednesday, May 26, 2027
Flights 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 superior first class hotel is perched atop Netanya's southern coastal cliffs and overlooks the Mediterranean Sea.
Hotel Details
This deluxe class hotel sits hillside overlooking the city and next to the Jerusalem International Convention Center.
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. or Canadian 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 for US Citizens. For Canadian citizens, passport application are available at Canada Post locations, as well as at Service Canada Centres. Passengers requiring visas, whether obtained in advance or locally upon arrival, should ensure that their passport has blank pages. |
| Staying Healthy While Traveling |
| Please consult with your healthcare provider for up-to-date requirements. You may also check the Centers for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov) and/or the World Health Organization (http://www.who.int/en/) for their recommendations. Any required inoculations must be documented by clients' healthcare provider on a valid vaccination certificate, which must be carried as proof where necessary. Individuals with heart disease, chronic illness, physical handicap, advanced pregnancy, or mental illness should not participate in these rigorous travel programs. While traveling, illnesses can sometimes be unavoidable. If a traveler arrives feeling ill or becomes sick during the tour, they will be separated from the group and directed to either a local or virtual medical facility for diagnosis. This precaution is necessary to ensure the well-being of all travelers. The traveler may only rejoin the group after receiving written clearance from an accredited medical facility confirming they are fit to continue. All costs associated with medical treatment and related expenses such as additional hotel nights or transportation not included in the original itinerary will be the responsibility of the passenger. Travel protection plans will only consider coverage with service receipts provided by legally qualified health care facilities, and in accordance with policy terms. 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. |
| 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 US, Canada 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. |
| 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/reservations 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. |
| 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. |
| 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/Canada or your US/Canadian 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. |
| 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 - 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: Fahrenheit | Celsius |
| United States - The weather in the United States varies according to geographical area. The hottest period is from June to August and the coolest from November to February. Bring comfortable walking shoes, clothes you can layer, and an all-weather jacket. Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses are also recommended. You may encounter mosquitoes during warm and hot weather. Travelers are encouraged to bring insect repellent and consider wearing clothing that adequately covers arms and legs. For winter programs, come prepared for cold temperatures, icy trails, and short daylight hours. The National Park Service recommends bringing over-the-shoe-traction devices, extra snacks and layered clothing that can easily be added or removed to adapt to a variety of weather conditions USA Average Temperatures: Fahrenheit | Celsius |
| 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 your luggage upon arrival or to describe it in the event that it is lost. |
| Intra-Flights |
| All intra-flights included in your package are booked in Economy Class. Checked bags are typically limited to a total dimension of 62 inches (157 cm) by adding length + width + height (example: 26"+26"+10" = 62" / 66cm+66cm+25cm = 157cm), and a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23 kg). Exceptions are listed below and may differ from international flight luggage limits. More detailed baggage restrictions for your airline can be found at www.gate1travel.com/baggagefees.aspx. |
| 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. Be wary of airport scammers who offer unwanted assistance. If you are arriving without a pre-arranged transfer, we strongly recommend going to the Tourist Information Desk to ask for a licensed taxi or transfer service. You may be asked to pay for the transfer at the desk prior to the trip, this will ensure you are not charged extra during the trip. |
| 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. |
| Philadelphia * Distance from Hotel to Airport: 9 miles * Approx. Taxi Cost: $35 * Approx. Ride Share Cost: $85 * Approx. Airport Shuttles Cost: $7-$10 * Approx. Private Car Cost: $65 |
| About Your Accommodations |
| Hotels |
| Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each hotel based on overall quality, location, price, 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. While air conditioning is available in most hotels, we recommend checking the room amenities listed under the "Featured Hotels" tab of your package to confirm. Please note that many international hotels were built before central air conditioning was introduced. In those that do offer air conditioning, usage may be restricted, often due to government regulations aimed at promoting energy conservation. It's typical for air conditioning to be used only during the summer months, to follow a set schedule (sometimes turned off at night), and to operate at lower settings than what many Americans are accustomed to. 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 |
| Staggered Arrival & Departure |
| Many tours are offered with multiple duration options, allowing travelers to choose one or more destinations in a single trip. As a result, the number of participants on your tour may vary, as we accommodate travelers arriving and departing at different points in the itinerary. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| 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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United States
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| Languages |
| Israel - Hebrew and Arabic are the official languages. English is generally spoken throughout the country. |
| United States - English is the local language. |
| 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. |
| United States - No converters or transformers will be necessary for US residents when traveling anywhere within the United States. |
| Code of Conduct |
| United States - Americans tend to be very friendly and informal, even with strangers. Greetings are usually casual and speaking on a first name basis is common. A handshake is the customary greeting, especially upon first meetings. Casual attire is generally expected unless in a formal situation. |
| Meals & Dietary Requests |
| Included meals are based on the restaurant's set menu or buffet and usually represent local cuisine. Vegetarian meals are available in most locations, while vegan, protein-rich or gluten-free menus are rare. Special dietary requests, which must be selected in the passenger details section of your reservation, cannot be guaranteed. We are unable to provide meals in accordance with strict religious requirements, such as Kosher or Halal, nor can we accommodate specifically salt-free, high-protein or low-carb meals.
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| 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 2026 Mar 3: Purim Mar 4: Shushan Purim Apr 2-8: Pesach (Passover) Apr 14: Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Memorial Day) Apr 22: Yom Ha'Atzmaut (Israel Independence Day) May 22: Shavu'ot (Pentecost) Sep 12-13: Rosh Hashana (New Year) Sep 21: Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement) Sep 26-Oct 1: Sukkot (Feast of Tabernacles) Oct 3: Simini Atzeret / Simchat Torah Dec 5-12: Hanukkah Holidays 2027 Mar 23: Purim Mar 24: Shushan Purim Apr 21-28: Pesach (Passover) May 4: Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Memorial Day) May 12: Yom Ha'Atzmaut (Israel Independence Day) Jun 11: Shavu'ot (Pentecost) Aug 12: Tisha B'Av Oct 1-3: Rosh Hashana (New Year) Oct 11: Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement) Oct 15-22: Sukkot (Feast of Tabernacles) Oct 23: Simini Atzeret / Simchat Torah Dec 15-30: 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 - United States |
Holidays 2026 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 19: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Feb 16: President's Day Apr 5: Easter Sunday May 25: Memorial Day Jun 19: Juneteenth Holiday Jul 4: Independence Day Sep 7: Labor Day Oct 12: Columbus Day / Indigenous People Day Nov 11: Veteran's Day Nov 26: Thanksgiving Day Dec 25: Christmas Holidays 2027 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 18: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Feb 15: President's Day Mar 28: Easter May 31: Memorial Day Jul 4: Independence Day Sep 6: Labor Day Oct 11: Columbus Day / Indigenous People Day Nov 11: Veteran's Day Nov 25: Thanksgiving Dec 25: Christmas |
| Suggested Tipping |
| Gratuities |
| Tipping is always at your personal discretion. For your convenience, please refer to the summary below as a guideline for recommended gratuity amounts. Gratuities may be paid in local currency or in the U.S. dollar equivalent where accepted, and we recommend keeping small bills on hand for tipping. Please note that in many destinations, tipping is considered a customary part of local compensation. While you may occasionally be approached for additional tips, you should never feel pressured to do so. If at any time you feel uncomfortable or uncertain about a situation, please speak with your Tour Manager or contact our office using the 24/7 phone numbers provided in your travel documents. |
| Suggested Tipping: Israel |
Suggested amounts are based on each passenger, regardless of age. Tour Manager: US $10 per person per day Driver: US $5 per person per day, US $3 per half day Note: Tips for local guides, hotel porters, wait staff, and any other services listed in your itinerary are included, unless otherwise specified above. Drivers provide chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage, and on some itineraries, you may encounter multiple drivers. |
| Israel - For activities on your own, restaurant bills normally include a service charge, though it is still customary to tip in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. 12% is customary for good service. |
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