10 Day Affordable Israel
From
$1699
Land Only
$2609*
Air & Land
Featured Hotels
(Hotels may vary based on departure day of the week)
| Sunday Departure | ||
|---|---|---|
| Cinema Hotel | Tel Aviv | |
| Nof Ginosar | Galilee | |
| Sofia Hotel | Tiberias | |
| Prima Royale Hotel | Jerusalem | |
| Tuesday Departure | ||
|---|---|---|
| Cinema Hotel | Tel Aviv | |
| Nof Ginosar | Galilee | |
| Sofia Hotel | Tiberias | |
| Prima Royale Hotel | Jerusalem | |
Click a Date to Book Online
Click a Date to Book Online
| 2023 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $750 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel | Dates | Embark | Tour Starts | Ship | Land Only | Air & Land |
| Only 1 seat left! | $1949 | $2889* | ||||
| $1699 | $2639* | |||||
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$1699 | $2749* | ||||
| $1799 | $2729* | |||||
| $2049 | $3129* | |||||
| $1799 | $2889* | |||||
| $1899 | $3249* | |||||
| $1899 | $3749* | |||||
| $1899 | $3039* | |||||
| $2149 | $3249* | |||||
| $1949 | $3049* | |||||
| $1949 | $3049* | |||||
| $1999 | $4219* | |||||
| $1949 | $3239* | |||||
| $1949 | $3489* | |||||
| $1909 | $3199* | |||||
| $1909 | $4349* | |||||
| $1909 | $3389* | |||||
| $1909 | $3259* | |||||
| $1909 | $3429* | |||||
| $1909 | $3019* | |||||
| $2009 | $3529* | |||||
| $2109 | $3349* | |||||
| $2109 | $3219* | |||||
| $1959 | $3069* | |||||
| $1959 | $3069* | |||||
| $1959 | $2999* | |||||
| $1959 | $3109* | |||||
| $1959 | $2809* | |||||
| $1909 | $3009* | |||||
| $1909 | $2759* | |||||
| $1909 | $2759* | |||||
| $1759 | $2859* | |||||
| $1759 | $2609* | |||||
| $1959 | $2959* | |||||
Not Included:
Optional tours and gratuities.
Additional Information:
Land only price does not include arrival/departure transfers.
Your tour will begin with an orientation meeting with your Tour Manager at approximately 7 PM. We recommend that you select flights which arrive no later than 5 PM.
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.
Accommodation Details:
Hotel check-in is 4 PM. If you have an early arrival and want to check-in prior to 4 PM you may pre-purchase an additional hotel night.
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.
Is This Trip Right for You?
Escorted Package Includes
- Round trip flights New York-Tel Aviv, Tel Aviv-New York
Other departure cities available. Click on date of departure for selection and prices - Airline taxes & fuel surcharges
- 8 nights accommodations
- 2 nights Tel Aviv
- 2 nights Galilee Region
- 4 nights Jerusalem
- Hotel taxes, fees & service charges
- Hotel porterage
- All transfers included only with airfare purchase on package arrival & departure dates†
- 12 meals: 8 breakfasts, 4 dinners
- Sightseeing per itinerary in modern air-conditioned motor coach
- Services of English-speaking tour manager throughout
- Entrance fees per itinerary
- Comfortable wireless earphones for enhanced touring
Special Features
- Tour the astounding Roman, Byzantine and Crusader ruins at ancient Caesarea
- Visit the Church of the Annunciation and Mary's Well in sacred Nazareth
- In Tiberias, enjoy the pristine Sea of Galilee, the largest freshwater lake in Israel
- At the Jordan River stop at the popular baptismal site of Yardenit
- Discover Jerusalem's astonishing walled Old City
†Transfers are available for purchase for land only or on alternative flight dates
Is This Trip Right for You?
This active trip covers a lot of ground each day. Expect extensive walking during sightseeing in Jerusalem. The pace is fast and you will encounter some uneven surfaces, stairs, steps and significant slopes. Please be aware that if taking the Masada & Dead Sea optional tour the journey to the top of the mesa is via cable car. This is a Classic program. For more information, click here.
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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 tourist class hotel, originally one of the first theaters of Tel Aviv, is located on Dizengoff Circle.
Hotel Details
This first class kibbutz hotel is located on the shores of the Sea of Galilee, less than 20 minutes from Tiberias.
Hotel Details
This tourist class hotel is centrally located in the Talbieh district, the heart of Jerusalem.
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
Get acquainted with this vibrant and cosmopolitan city on this panoramic tour that begins on bustling Ibn Gvirol Street and travels to Yitzhak Rabin Square with its memorial to the late Israeli Prime Minister. Continue past the Mann Auditorium and Habima, Israel's national theatre to tree-lined Rothschild Avenue known for its distinctive Bauhaus architecture dating back to the 1930s. To top off the evening, stop for dinner at a popular Tel Aviv restaurant. Enjoy the views and just people-watch!
Approximate tour duration is 2 hours.
| Day #3 | 01 Jan 2023 - 31 Mar 2024 | $57.00 |
First, a stop at Mount of Beatitudes where Jesus preached His famous "Sermon on the Mount". Next, drive to Safed, a holy city in Judaism and the center of the mystical Kabbalah. Stroll through the artists' colony and visit an ancient synagogue. Proceed to Golan Heights stopping for a tour and lunch at a kibbutz . Continue to Har Bental site of a former Israeli bunker. Next visit a kosher winery in Katzrin, the largest town in the Golan Heights. Return to your hotel.
Approximate tour duration is 9 hours.
| Day #5 | 01 Jan 2020 - 31 Mar 2023 | $105.00 |
| 01 Apr 2023 - 31 Mar 2024 | $105.00 |
Jerusalem at night is truly a sight to behold, with the city's magnificent architecture beautifully illuminated. The evening begins with dinner at a popular restaurant. Afterwards, attend the spectacular "Sound & Light" Show at the Tower of David that tells the story of Jerusalem accompanied by original music and virtual reality images. Return to your hotel.
Approximate tour duration is 3 hours.
This tour has limited availability and will sometimes be cancelled on short notice.
| Day #7 | 01 Jan 2020 - 31 Mar 2023 | $72.00 |
| 01 Apr 2023 - 31 Mar 2024 | $72.00 |
The tour of the Old City begins at the Zion Gate, where provisions for the Jewish Quarter were smuggled during the War of Independence. Walk to the Cardo, the ancient Roman Street that was the main shopping area during the Roman and Byzantine Periods. Visit the Jewish Quarter and view the four Sephardic Synagogues, each one built separately to fit the needs of the Sephardic community at the time of its construction. Next, tour the Herodian Quarter, an area once populated by aristocratic families and Temple priests. Lastly, tour the Southern Wall excavations and visit the Davidson Center in the Archaeological Park.
Approximate tour duration is 4 hours.
| Day #7 | 01 Jan 2023 - 31 Mar 2024 | $57.00 |
On this excursion, you will leave the State of Israel and cross the border to the Palestinian Authority. You will leave your Israeli guide and driver on the Israeli side, and upon arriving into the West Bank, you will be met by your Palestinian tour guide who will accompany you on this tour to Bethlehem. Large groups will necessarily split into smaller groups utilizing local shuttle buses, which will take you to visit the Church of the Nativity, commemorating the birthplace of Jesus Christ, with many restoration projects instituted throughout the years. The facade of the Church of the Nativity is encircled by the high walls of the three convents: the Franciscan on the northeast side, and the Greek Orthodox and the Armenian Orthodox on the southeast side. A shopping stop for local souvenirs and olive wood handicrafts, a principal source of local income, is included in the tour.
Please note that Bethlehem is located six miles south of Jerusalem in the West Bank and governed by the Palestinian National Authority. Due to the popularity of the Church, long lines are common and wait time may vary.
Approximate tour duration is 3 hours.
| Day #8 | 01 Jan 2020 - 31 Mar 2023 | $33.00 |
| 01 Apr 2023 - 31 Mar 2024 | $33.00 |
View the Supreme Court building and the Knesset, Israel's Parliament, as you drive to visit the stunning Israel Museum. Here, view the Shrine of the Book where the Dead Sea Scrolls are housed and the miniature model of Jerusalem during Second Temple period. Then, to Yad Vashem, Memorial to the Holocaust, on the Mount of Remembrance. Return to your hotel.
Approximate tour duration is 4 hours.
| Day #8 | 01 Jan 2020 - 31 Mar 2023 | $57.00 |
| 01 Apr 2023 - 31 Mar 2024 | $57.00 |
The full day tour to Masada and the Dead Sea begins with a drive through the Judean Desert and along the shores of the Dead Sea, the lowest place on earth, to Masada, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ascend the towering desert mesa via cable car to visit the excavations of the fortress of King Herod and last stronghold of the Zealots against the Romans. Here you'll see many of the original structures such as the synagogue and storehouses that have been painstakingly restored by archaeologists. At the base, visit the Museum of Masada that combines archaeological artifacts with a narrated guided tour of the Story of Masada. Then, journey via Ein Gedi to the Dead Sea for an "unsinkable" swim in the buoyant, salty waters.
Approximate tour duration is 9 hours.
| Day #9 | 01 Jan 2023 - 31 Mar 2024 | $108.00 |
Get acquainted with this vibrant and cosmopolitan city on this panoramic tour that begins on bustling Ibn Gvirol Street and travels to Yitzhak Rabin Square with its memorial to the late Israeli Prime Minister. Continue past the Mann Auditorium and Habima, Israel's national theatre to tree-lined Rothschild Avenue known for its distinctive Bauhaus architecture dating back to the 1930s. To top off the evening, stop for dinner at a popular Tel Aviv restaurant. Enjoy the views and just people-watch!
Approximate tour duration is 2 hours.
| Day #3 | 01 Jan 2023 - 31 Mar 2024 | $57.00 |
First, a stop at Mount of Beatitudes where Jesus preached His famous "Sermon on the Mount". Next, drive to Safed, a holy city in Judaism and the center of the mystical Kabbalah. Stroll through the artists' colony and visit an ancient synagogue. Proceed to Golan Heights stopping for a tour and lunch at a kibbutz . Continue to Har Bental site of a former Israeli bunker. Next visit a kosher winery in Katzrin, the largest town in the Golan Heights. Return to your hotel.
Approximate tour duration is 9 hours.
| Day #5 | 01 Jan 2020 - 31 Mar 2023 | $105.00 |
| 01 Apr 2023 - 31 Mar 2024 | $105.00 |
Jerusalem at night is truly a sight to behold, with the city's magnificent architecture beautifully illuminated. The evening begins with dinner at a popular restaurant. Afterwards, attend the spectacular "Sound & Light" Show at the Tower of David that tells the story of Jerusalem accompanied by original music and virtual reality images. Return to your hotel.
Approximate tour duration is 3 hours.
This tour has limited availability and will sometimes be cancelled on short notice.
| Day #7 | 01 Jan 2020 - 31 Mar 2023 | $72.00 |
| 01 Apr 2023 - 31 Mar 2024 | $72.00 |
The tour of the Old City begins at the Zion Gate, where provisions for the Jewish Quarter were smuggled during the War of Independence. Walk to the Cardo, the ancient Roman Street that was the main shopping area during the Roman and Byzantine Periods. Visit the Jewish Quarter and view the four Sephardic Synagogues, each one built separately to fit the needs of the Sephardic community at the time of its construction. Next, tour the Herodian Quarter, an area once populated by aristocratic families and Temple priests. Lastly, tour the Southern Wall excavations and visit the Davidson Center in the Archaeological Park.
Approximate tour duration is 4 hours.
| Day #7 | 01 Jan 2023 - 31 Mar 2024 | $57.00 |
On this excursion, you will leave the State of Israel and cross the border to the Palestinian Authority. You will leave your Israeli guide and driver on the Israeli side, and upon arriving into the West Bank, you will be met by your Palestinian tour guide who will accompany you on this tour to Bethlehem. Large groups will necessarily split into smaller groups utilizing local shuttle buses, which will take you to visit the Church of the Nativity, commemorating the birthplace of Jesus Christ, with many restoration projects instituted throughout the years. The facade of the Church of the Nativity is encircled by the high walls of the three convents: the Franciscan on the northeast side, and the Greek Orthodox and the Armenian Orthodox on the southeast side. A shopping stop for local souvenirs and olive wood handicrafts, a principal source of local income, is included in the tour.
Please note that Bethlehem is located six miles south of Jerusalem in the West Bank and governed by the Palestinian National Authority. Due to the popularity of the Church, long lines are common and wait time may vary.
Approximate tour duration is 3 hours.
| Day #8 | 01 Jan 2020 - 31 Mar 2023 | $33.00 |
| 01 Apr 2023 - 31 Mar 2024 | $33.00 |
View the Supreme Court building and the Knesset, Israel's Parliament, as you drive to visit the stunning Israel Museum. Here, view the Shrine of the Book where the Dead Sea Scrolls are housed and the miniature model of Jerusalem during Second Temple period. Then, to Yad Vashem, Memorial to the Holocaust, on the Mount of Remembrance. Return to your hotel.
Approximate tour duration is 4 hours.
| Day #8 | 01 Jan 2020 - 31 Mar 2023 | $57.00 |
| 01 Apr 2023 - 31 Mar 2024 | $57.00 |
The full day tour to Masada and the Dead Sea begins with a drive through the Judean Desert and along the shores of the Dead Sea, the lowest place on earth, to Masada, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ascend the towering desert mesa via cable car to visit the excavations of the fortress of King Herod and last stronghold of the Zealots against the Romans. Here you'll see many of the original structures such as the synagogue and storehouses that have been painstakingly restored by archaeologists. At the base, visit the Museum of Masada that combines archaeological artifacts with a narrated guided tour of the Story of Masada. Then, journey via Ein Gedi to the Dead Sea for an "unsinkable" swim in the buoyant, salty waters.
Approximate tour duration is 9 hours.
| Day #9 | 01 Jan 2023 - 31 Mar 2024 | $108.00 |
| 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. |
| Cell Phones & Calling Cards |
| You may wish to carry a cell phone while traveling. Check with your cell phone provider if your phone will work in the destination(s) you are visiting. If you can access the Internet as you travel, you can take advantage of email or a Skype Internet telephone (VOIP) account for the best value. Additionally, if your phone can connect to WiFi you may be able to make voice and video calls free of charge. Please contact your cell phone provider for further details. Alternatively, you may investigate renting a cell phone before you leave or buying an inexpensive phone locally. When calling the U.S. from a foreign country, you may also use a prepaid calling card; normally, the only additional charge (besides the prepaid long distance charges) is a local fee of a few cents and possibly a connection fee if you are using your card at your hotel. It is best to check with the hotel's reception desk prior to making phone calls to avoid unexpected charges. Please note that we are unable to provide compensation for phone calls regardless of reason. |
| 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 access has improved. Free or inexpensive WiFi internet is accessible at coffee shops, airports, restaurants, libraries and on some trains and buses. WiFi access in hotels and cruise lines often involves a fee, determined by that property. Signal strength is subject to local conditions and not guaranteed. 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 or, on moving conveyances such as buses and cruise ships. |
| 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 |
| 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 Escorted Tour Participants in Israel |
| Please note that the number of participants may vary during your tour as we accommodate travelers at different points of the trip. All 9 Day, 13 & 14 Day passengers will begin their trip with the overnight in Jerusalem on Thursday. At the end of the tour, 9 Day passengers will depart from Tel Aviv and fly home while 13 Day passengers will head to Eilat for an extended stay. The 14 Day Israel/Jordan passengers will travel to Jordan after Tiberias. Upon initial arrival to Jerusalem, you will be invited to join a welcome orientation with your Tour Manager and will meet your tour companions. |
| 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 $8 per person per day Driver (Provides chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage) : US $3 per person per day, US $2 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. |
| 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. 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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| Languages |
| Israel - Hebrew and Arabic are the official languages. English is generally spoken throughout the country. |
| 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. |
| Code of Conduct |
| Food and Meals |
| As specified in each itinerary. Meals are based on the hotel's or restaurant's buffet or set menu. In general, beverages are not included, unless specifically stated. Although Gate 1 cannot make guarantees, every effort will be made to honor special dietary requests submitted in writing at least 72 hours prior to departure at www.gate1travel.com/contactus. Terminology for dietary requests can vary from country to country and options may be limited. Therefore we recommend that you make your wishes known to your tour manager upon arrival, and at each hotel/restaurant. |
| 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 2022 Mar 17: Purim Apr 16-Apr 22: Pesach (Passover) Apr 9: Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Memorial Day) May 5: Yom Ha'Atzmaut (Israel Independence Day) June 4-5: Shavu'ot (Pentecost) Aug 7: Tisha B'Av Sep 25-27: Rosh Hashana (New Year) Oct 5: Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement) Oct 10-16: Sukkot (Feast of Tabernacles) Oct 17: Simini Atzeret / Simchat Torah Dec 19-26: Hanukkah Holidays 2023 Mar 7: Purim Mar 8: Shushan Purim Apr 6-Apr 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 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. |
| 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. |
| Cell Phones & Calling Cards |
| You may wish to carry a cell phone while traveling. Check with your cell phone provider if your phone will work in the destination(s) you are visiting. If you can access the Internet as you travel, you can take advantage of email or a Skype Internet telephone (VOIP) account for the best value. Additionally, if your phone can connect to WiFi you may be able to make voice and video calls free of charge. Please contact your cell phone provider for further details. Alternatively, you may investigate renting a cell phone before you leave or buying an inexpensive phone locally. When calling the U.S. from a foreign country, you may also use a prepaid calling card; normally, the only additional charge (besides the prepaid long distance charges) is a local fee of a few cents and possibly a connection fee if you are using your card at your hotel. It is best to check with the hotel's reception desk prior to making phone calls to avoid unexpected charges. Please note that we are unable to provide compensation for phone calls regardless of reason. |
| 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 access has improved. Free or inexpensive WiFi internet is accessible at coffee shops, airports, restaurants, libraries and on some trains and buses. WiFi access in hotels and cruise lines often involves a fee, determined by that property. Signal strength is subject to local conditions and not guaranteed. 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 or, on moving conveyances such as buses and cruise ships. |
| 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 |
| 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 Escorted Tour Participants in Israel |
| Please note that the number of participants may vary during your tour as we accommodate travelers at different points of the trip. All 9 Day, 13 & 14 Day passengers will begin their trip with the overnight in Jerusalem on Thursday. At the end of the tour, 9 Day passengers will depart from Tel Aviv and fly home while 13 Day passengers will head to Eilat for an extended stay. The 14 Day Israel/Jordan passengers will travel to Jordan after Tiberias. Upon initial arrival to Jerusalem, you will be invited to join a welcome orientation with your Tour Manager and will meet your tour companions. |
| 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 $8 per person per day Driver (Provides chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage) : US $3 per person per day, US $2 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. |
| 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. 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 |
|
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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| Languages |
| Israel - Hebrew and Arabic are the official languages. English is generally spoken throughout the country. |
| 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. |
| Code of Conduct |
| Food and Meals |
| As specified in each itinerary. Meals are based on the hotel's or restaurant's buffet or set menu. In general, beverages are not included, unless specifically stated. Although Gate 1 cannot make guarantees, every effort will be made to honor special dietary requests submitted in writing at least 72 hours prior to departure at www.gate1travel.com/contactus. Terminology for dietary requests can vary from country to country and options may be limited. Therefore we recommend that you make your wishes known to your tour manager upon arrival, and at each hotel/restaurant. |
| 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 2022 Mar 17: Purim Apr 16-Apr 22: Pesach (Passover) Apr 9: Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Memorial Day) May 5: Yom Ha'Atzmaut (Israel Independence Day) June 4-5: Shavu'ot (Pentecost) Aug 7: Tisha B'Av Sep 25-27: Rosh Hashana (New Year) Oct 5: Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement) Oct 10-16: Sukkot (Feast of Tabernacles) Oct 17: Simini Atzeret / Simchat Torah Dec 19-26: Hanukkah Holidays 2023 Mar 7: Purim Mar 8: Shushan Purim Apr 6-Apr 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 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. |
My husband and I had an amazing trip in Israel. Our trip was well organized and we were very satisfied by the services provided by gate1. Our tour guide Zach was absolutely phenomenal. His knowledge of modern and ancient history, Jewish and Christian religions was very impressive. He was very sensitive to the needs of everyone. We have been traveling a lot in the past. However, this trip is by far one of the best we have ever had.
Irina K.
Our Israel tour was the journey of a lifetime - on so many levels. And our brilliant guide, Gai, made all the difference. As always, the Gate 1 Discovery Tour itinerary was outstanding, as were all the hotels and restaurants. But this trip exceeded all our expectations. My husband and I learned more in 12 days about Biblical history and Israeli history, religion, heritage, and culture than we could have if we'd taken a masters course. Not a single day went by that I didn't find myself in tears - be it for sadness, joy, hope, enlightenment, or inspiration. Israel moved us in ways we never could have imagined and that was, in large part, a credit to Gai and his expert knowledge, engaging wit, and heartwarming passion for his country. THANK YOU, Gate 1 and Gai for this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Lucille D.
We recently returned from your 12-day Israel, Ancient and Modern Culture tour. It truly was the trip of a lifetime! Every bit of it was enjoyable and educational. Our guide, Gai, was exceptional. His friendly personality and wealth of knowledge were much appreciated. He paid attention to detail and was always prepared for the itinerary of the day. Our accommodations were great, and the food was outstanding! We appreciated the variety of sites and the information and historical details from Gai regarding each site. We also appreciate the size of the group for this type of trip. We will cherish our memories of this trip forever, and we have already recommended it and passed along information for booking to several friends. Thanks, Gate 1, for this wonderful experience!
Ronald S.
Our trip to Israel was magnificent! Everything was wonderful, our guide Dan was the best, so very interesting and knowledgeable. Dan kept us well informed on the history, facts and traditions of every place we visited throughout our ten day journey. Our bus driver Zahi was very conscientious with expert driving skills. Everyone felt safe with him behind the wheel transporting us from one town to another. This tour was so amazing, we visited so many amazing sites and covered so much territory in just ten days. The hotels, the food and the people were the best. Our group of twenty one people became friends on our first day and had a fabulous time together. Just love our group and will remain in touch. The flights to and from Israel with United Airlines flew seamlessly, on time with no delays. Great job Gate1, I couldn't be more pleased with this fantastic trip! Looking forward to my next trip with Gate1.
Marie C.
Although I never received a request from you for a personal review for a recent trip ( 16 Day Deluxe Israel and Jordan), I feel compelled to write regarding the superb guides and bus drivers in both countries as well as the outstanding Gate 1 service and planning, beginning with pick up at the Tel Aviv airport and ending with Gate 1 support at the Amman airport. The hotels were superb, the meals delicious, and the travel arrangements between hotels, between tourist sites and between countries, were seamless. Kudos to the Gate 1 planning team, from initial reservation in 2019 and due to Covid, rescheduled twice! In Israel, Gabriella (Gabi) , our tour manager and guide, was a font of information regarding history- both historical/archaeological and the history of the state of Israel. She is extremely knowledgeable regarding the culture, religion and food ways of her country. Gabi is a master planner and facilitator, shepherding us daily through a rich itinerary, coordinating departures, entry times, lunch and dinner reservations, leaving us each day with rich memories of Roman cities, natural wonders, Christian holy sites and Jewish religious/cultural experiences. Gabi's ability to communicate her love and passion for Israel coupled with her empathy, understanding, concern, and care for the 20 tourists under her care made for wonderful traveling. Our Israeli bus driver, Aman, was outstanding, maneuvering a large bus in crowded cities with skill and humor. And across the border we were met by our Jordanian driver Mohammed, equally skillful and engaging. In Jordan, we were welcomed at the Israeli border by Ali , our charming and exceptional tour manager and guide. Ali's extensive knowledge of history, archaeology, Islam, and Jordanian culture, coupled with his engaging manner, ability to communicate and involve his audience, made our experience especially memorable and enjoyable. Our itinerary was was filled from sunrise until nighttime. Ali delivered wonderful lectures on the tour bus as we traveled from site to site and seamlessly planned and timed our visits and meals. Ali's concern for us, his wealth of information, ability to engage his audience, and the spectacular sites in Jordan all contributed to an exciting week of travel.
Deborah S.
Our family just got back from the 9 Day Journey for the Believer tour, and I truly can't thank Gate 1 enough for the most amazing vacation we have ever been on. Our tour manager, Ofer, absolutely brought Israel to life with his stories and experiences and his pure love of his country! Ofer has a vast knowledge of the history, and his personal touch giving us details of his life growing up in Israel and his love of family. We knew that this would be an amazing journey through Biblical history, but we had no idea that a tour manager, such as Ofer could make such an impact on the overall experience. Ofer even looked over his flock by directing traffic when our tour bus got stuck in traffic and we were trying to get back to our hotel in time for dinner. The other great things with the tour were the food and the accommodations which were excellent. I would highly recommend this tour and Ofer as your tour manager if you are planning a trip to Israel in the future.
Jeff P.
This trip to Israel has been the best I have ever enjoyed for the following reasons: 1) Mr. Heiko did an impeccable job as a tour manager. He was able to achieve one of a kind inter-relationship with the 25 tourists. There was not a single discrepancy with anybody. Respect, cooperation, admiration, support, were everyday components. I am using a cane because of small problems of balance, and Heiko self assigned the task of helping me avoiding any fall despite the difficult conditions of the long walks, including Jesus Christ's via dolorosa, warning us about narrow and inclined passages. His careful and efficient attitude towards all passengers made it possible that there was not a single accident. I could walk fast, breaking my own personal records. Heiko is an empathetic guide able to be in his tourists' shoes! Congratulations to him as a legitimate representative of Gate1! His work was also aided by an extraordinary driver, extremely careful going through narrow and crowded streets, showing an impeccable driving experience and good human relations. He was always smiling, helping the passengers entering and getting out of the bus. Heiko and the driver (whose name I forgot. I am sorry) made a formidable pair of human beings. Both of them were responsible for the unforgettable experience we all lived in Israel. Congratulations to both, and to Gate1 for this formidable experience, including their participation in the battle against Covid. I am happy for my intense and systematic traveling experience with Gate1. Outstanding traveling results, including reasonable prices. SEEING THE WORLD FOR LESS.
Antonio M.
Our tour guide Boaz was outstanding. a walking encyclopedia of Israel and religions... Boaz went out of his way to enlighten us about everywhere we went with humor and great insight. Our hotel sites were wonderful and the dinners were always fun. We wish we had even more time at every stop. Jerusalem is now our favorite city and Boaz is our favorite tour guide. Thanks again for a wonderful trip.
Wayne M.
The tour of Israel was a dream come true. It was because of your prices that I was able to go on this trip at all. But I must use this opportunity to rave about our tour guide and bus driver. Roman, the tour guide, was truly amazing in every aspect. He was smart and always on target. He was friendly and so courteous, even when some of the same guests were always late back to the bus, he handled it with such an ease. He never got annoyed. He has a very even keeled personality. I think ultimately, he wanted to make sure, for each one of us, that our time in Israel was most memorable. He was considerate, organized, funny, kind, caring generous and precise. He was very unusual in that he cared about us getting the most out of our journey. He was always ready to listen to whatever story anyone had to say. He always asked opinions of everyone if we were comfortable and enjoying ourselves. He was kind and he gave all of himself. He had a mission (not a job) and he went above and beyond. He made this trip most amazing. It was and great trip but what contributed in making it amazing was Roman. And our bus driver was excellent. I sat in the front and never worried, he drove that bus and maneuvered it like it was a nothing special. He handled all the situations with such ease. He was always ready for us, we never waited for him. Even when we couldn't park, he found a place safe for us to exit. He was so calm and good at what he does. He was eager to add any information he might have had, when Roman was talking to us about something specific. He was great. I couldn't have asked for two better people. I truly believe they are the reason this trip was so special. What a pair. I couldn't have been happier.
Carol C.
My husband Mike and I just returned from an extraordinary tour of Israel, Jordan and Petra. We completed the online survey, and we also wanted to express how much our amazing guides made our trip better than we could have expected. Both were able to look at current conditions of weather, or traffic, or other factors, and adjust the schedule and timing so that we could have the richest use of time, and the best conditions for our destinations. We realize that required extra effort on their part, and we really appreciate it. Especially when Omar worked to switch reservations so we could be at Petra before severe weather hit, that made a highlight of the trip something that we could enjoy completely, instead of rush through while trying not to be frozen in a snow storm. We noticed and appreciated so much extra effort from Simon and Omar. It has made us want to return to Israel and Jordan, as well as look forward to our other trips.
Josephine H.
Our trip was wonderful, everything went very smooth! Well-oiled machine! Our guide Micha was wonderful and made it very fun and informative, with her humor and knowledge of the area, she made the trip unforgettable. She guided us thru so much in a very timely manner, keeping track of the whole group at the same time. We had some older folks that were not up to the pace we needed, but she accommodated them very well and was very considerate of their limits. My wife and I would have her as a guide anytime!! Coby our drive was amazing as well, very skilled driver and always has a great attitude, always smiling and happy no matter the traffic. Great team you gave us! We will use gate 1 again for sure!!
Patrick M. Hudsonville, MI
The 13 Day Essential Israel and Jordan trip was amazing! The itinerary was well paced and the optional tours were value for the money. I was never disappointed! I am so impressed with Gate 1 service - in particular the transfers beginning and ending the trip including the support through customs leaving Jordan. Beyond the booking process I found the communication from Gate 1 exceptional from what to do to prepare for your trip to the processing of a refund for a cancelled optional tour. During the trip the Voxboxes made the guided tours so much more enjoyable! I was free to wander and look as I listened and learned! I completed the customer survey feedback but I really want to ‘gush’ about our Israeli guide Ilan. He is a gifted speaker/teacher and a wonderful ambassador for both Israel and Gate 1! I have already recommended your company to friends who have asked how my trip was!
Cherie R. Toronto, Ontario
We had a great trip to Israel. Our guide, Anat was absolutely amazing. She is the main reason why we enjoyed our 10 day trip. Her knowledge, enthusiasm, patience and, above all, kindness, allowed us to make numerous connections to the sites of Israel. During our visit we were aware of hostilities in and around the Gaza Strip. Because of Anat's professionalism and confidence, we never felt scared or unsure of our surroundings. Thank you Gate 1 for another great trip! Until next time.
Roger L. Ottawa, Canada
We had a wonderful trip with Gate 1. I don't know how he got so much in, in such a short time.The Hotels were wonderful, the food was great, and we had a great group of people on this tour. We will book again with Gate 1!
Bob and Sharon V. Okatie, SC
The trip and Gate 1 were amazing. The hotels, food, guide, transfers, bus driver, just everything couldn’t have been better.
Laurence F. Richmond, VA
My wife and I had a safe, wonderful and enjoyable trip to Israel. Our Tour Manager Mati did a great job guiding and directing us. He was very knowledgeable and gave us clear, concise information every stop on our tour. We felt safe in our travels. Our driver Kobi worked in harmony with Mati. We had enough time in every stop to enjoy the significance of each location.The hotels were top notch in Jerusalem, the Dead Sea, the Golan Heights/Galilee and Tel Aviv. Thanks Mati! Thank you Gate 1 Travel!
Charles L. Brooklyn, NY
This was the best tour I have taken. I have done about 50 tours with many touring companies over the years. The most important thing was the tour director. Mr. Mati, our tour director, is the very best. He not only is very knowledgeable, but he has a rare gift of being able to read the group. He senses when to speed up and when the participants are not fully understanding, to slow up and use examples. The hotels were all centrally located and good. The food was good. The optional trips were priced fairly. The group of 19 people were friendly, intelligent and everyone had a good time. This was my second tour with Gate 1. You are now my number one tour company for my future trips. Keep up the good work!
Donald G. San Diego, CA
There truly aren't enough words to express how wonderful our trip was to Israel!!! It's like a beautiful dream that has finally come to an end. Being home is so bittersweet!!! I have to say that Gabi, our incredible tour guide helped make the trip so spectacular because of all her knowledge. She was SO FANTASTIC and will never forget her!!! She deserves 5 stars for being THE BEST tour guide ever!!! I have traveled all over the world, and can honestly say that I have never had a tour guide as good as her. She never cut us short, and shared all her wonderful knowledge with us, besides having such a lovely demeanor. I already miss her!!! I have recommended Gate 1 to several people and plan to use them again for future trips. I was totally satisfied with the beautiful hotels we stayed in, places we visited, as well as the food. I must say that the breakfasts in Israel were amazing!!! Gate 1 gets 5 stars for excellence!!!
Elissa T. Boca Raton, FL
It was AMAZING!! We participated in all of the tours, including the optional tours. Every tour was filled with an incredible amount of information as well as beautiful and historical sites. The hotels offered a huge, tasty variety of food for every meal. The best aspect of our tour was our tour guide Henry. His extensive knowledge of history, politics, economics, agriculture, religion and geography kept everyone on our tour captive during his discussions. He also incorporated his personal experiences into everything he talked about which made it even more interesting. He always called us to attention by saying, "My dear friends." We truly felt like his friends. Henry is by far the best tour guide I have ever had in all of my travels.
Pamela F. Valparaiso, IN
We had a great time in Jordan and Israel. Both guides were fabulous! The tours ran like clockwork and were so professional. We are very impressed with Gate 1!
Julie P. Littleton, CO
Our 15 Affordable Israel and Jordan was excellent and fantastic- no words to describe. Our kudos and a salute to our tour guide in Israel Simon and driver Bozz did a good job and also to our guide in Jordan, Omar and driver Sasa. They all did there job. I would like to recommend Gate One Travel to all my friends and see you again Gate One in our future travels!
George D. Staten Island, NY
Our trip was phenomenal! Our guide, Tal, really made the trip special as he was a local, friendly, personable, and knowledgeable guide. The pace was perfect; the sites were amazing, and the best part was floating in the Dead Sea. We could not have seen so much without such an organized trip. We feel this was an excellent value for our money, and I look forward to future trips with Gate 1!
Kimberly B. Sun City, AZ
We had a truly wonderful trip to Israel and Jordan. I especially wish to commend our tour guides Henry in Israel and Hazim in Jordan. They were efficient, knowledgeable, and extremely helpful to all in our party. We normally travel independently, planning our own itinerary, but in this case we were reluctant to travel to these two countries without experienced guides. We are very happy we traveled with Gate 1.
Theresa B. Saint Louis, MO
Once again, Gate 1 does an outstanding job. The trip to Jerusalem (Journey for the Believer) was outstanding. Our guide Sid was great, the information that he was able to present no matter what religion was amazing. The hotels, food, and comfort; everything about it was outstanding. Thank you so much Gate 1, we look forward to our next adventure with you guys.
Donald S. McFarland, WI
Best trip ever! This trip exceeded my expectations. Our tour guide, Mika, was a wealth of information ... I would encourage anyone who has ever had a desire to go to Israel, GO! It is very safe to travel there and an experience of a lifetime.
Maria F. Loveland, OH
Fabulous. We couldn’t ask for anything better!! The tour guide Simon was the best and made us all feel welcome and special. Our bus driver Mottie was great and we felt very safe when he drove. He was very skilled. Simon’s knowledge was over the top. He explained so much to help us understand everything we saw and shared many personal stories with us. We were sorry to end our tour. This was truly a once in a lifetime adventure. Would recommend Gate 1 and Simon in a heartbeat.
Sheila S. Brooklyn, NY
Fabulous!!! Enjoyed it a lot. Ofer, our tour guide/manager was very knowledgeable, fun and very helpful. Learned so many things about Israel. Everything about the trip was wonderful. The smaller Discovery group is so much better and more comfortable. Our driver, Shlomo, was also very good. Another great trip for me!!!
Lourdes K. Encino, CA
Our trip was fantastic..every detail of it! The guides were informative, the hotels superb and the food was marvelous. The extras made the trip more interesting. Overall...we give Gate 1 top ratings!
Diane Z. Lincolnshire, IL
Our trip and tours of Israel was amazing. We were very pleased with the experience through Gate 1. Our tour guide Mika was awesome. She was knowledgeable, personable, friendly and patient. She did a great job explaining history and current facts about each location. She was sensitive to the needs of the individuals in the group. We feel we were blessed to have her leading our group. Because of our wonderful experience, we will look to book through Gate 1 again when traveling abroad. We also may check for Mika’s schedule in the future! Thank you!
Frederick M. Indianapolis, IN
It was absolutely fantastic! More than I could dream of it being. Our guide was so knowledgeable, he really made the trip! Hotels were great and the food was plentiful.
Sandra C. Charlotte, FL.
We loved every minute. Our tour guide, Rotem Litov was excellent! He has the historical knowledge and communicated on all levels very well. If we wanted to venture out on our own, he was more than happy to provide suggestions and directions. Our bus driver took great care of us too. The accommodation picks were excellent! I especially loved Mount Zion with the views of the city. I will recommend to all my friends and will also take this tour again.
Marcella W. Chillicothe, OH
The trip was AMAZING!!!! Our tour manager in Israel, Simon, and Omar in Jordan, were extremely knowledgeable. They both really enhanced our Israel and Jordan experience!!!
Ivonne B. Boyton Beach, FL
We really enjoyed our trip to Israel. Everything was perfect. We have the best tour guide Gai Perez. Thank you Gate 1.
Maria T. Mundelein, IL
It was one of the best I ever had. Everything was so wonderful. The guide tour guy was exceptional as well as the driver. They were beyond expectation. Every day was so nice that I do not have any particular best day. All days were wonderful. Congratulations Gate 1 I am going to recommended this trip to my friends. Thank you so much Gate 1 for this beautiful trip.
Edwin C. Bellflower, CA
Wonderful! Our guide Leor Ilan and our driver Kobi were great! The hotels, food, and excursions were top notch. Thanks for the adventure. It was memorable!
Rhonda G. O Fallon, MO
Our trip was absolutely fantastic! This is the first time we have done an organised tour, and I cannot praise Gate1 highly enough. The hotels were all top class, the food superb, and the itinerary covered so much ground. It would have been impossible for us to see and do as much had we attempted to do it on our own.. A special mention re our tour guide, Rotem Litov, he was fantastic. His in-depth knowledge and ongoing commentary of the sights we saw was brilliant. I think I learnt more in a week from him than I did studying history at school for four years. He also managed to keep everyone in the group on a tight reign, not an easy job given he was looking after 40 people, so that none of the rest of the group was inconvenienced. We would definitely use Gate1 again, and I would have no hesitation in recommending your company to friends and family.
Peter D. Auckland, NZ
It was terrific! Gabi was a wonderful guide and managed some quite unpleasant people brilliantly. The tour was excellent and accomodation and food very good throughout. We are looking forward to Russia in October!
Judy H. Millers Point, AU
My trip was amazing! I loved my trip to Israel and Jordan... it has become my FAVORITE vacation. Our tour guides were excellent and shared a huge amount of history and information with us. I found everything interesting!
Janice D. Uniontown, PA
This is my third trip with your company... first: Morocco, Greece/ Turkey.... and of coarse Isreal. Wonderful experience traveling through all the sites, great hotels, great food, and bus driver & wonderful tour guide, Goti.. made it all worth while. Enjoyed the trip very much. Looking forward to trip # four.
Sheila S. Levittown, PA
We have just returned home, the trip was very good. We both enjoyed the trip, it was very well run and the accommodation was excellent. The extra tours were will worth doing. Our guide was very professional and well organised. Our group was 90% from USA and we enjoyed there company and stories. We will definitely look at travel with Gate 1 again.
William H. Mount Gambier, SA, AU
Wonderful trip. Our guide Henry was absolutely excellent, hotels, transportation and tours were interesting and educational. We are recommending the trip to our friends.
David P. Deland, FL