Preparing The Way Church Private Israel Tour

Payment Details:

* A $500 per person tour registration deposit is due by May 11, 2026
* Final payment due 75 days before departure due by July 17, 2026

* For more information, please contact Gabriela: [email protected]

Cancellation Policy:

Once a deposit or full payment has been made, cancellations will only be accepted in writing. Cancellation will be applied based on the date the written cancellation is received.

* Cancellation between 120 + days prior to departure – $100 per person admin fee  will apply
* Cancellation between 119 and 90 days prior to departure – cancellation fee of $500 will apply
* Cancellation between 89 and 60 days prior to departure – cancellation fee of $1000 will apply
* Cancellation between 59 and 45 days prior to departure – cancellation fee of $1500 will apply
* Cancellation between 44 and 31 days prior to departure – cancellation fee of $2000 will apply
* Cancellation between 30 days to day of departure or non-show – cancellation fee of 100% will apply

* No refund will be paid for unused land services such as: transfers, sightseeing, meals,

Why the daily activity level may vary from day to day – this tour has a Moderate Activity Level:  Passengers should be able to easily walk two to three miles during the day, with 8-9 hour touring days, which may include climbing one or two flights of stairs and walking over uneven pavement, groomed trails or cobblestones. Standing up to one hour or more may be required.

Please note that this is not an Accessible Tour and because of the itinerary and logistics, on this tour we are not able to accommodate passengers with mobility issues, or those that require walkers or wheel chairs.

Can I stay in the hotel room if I don’t feel like touring on one of the scheduled touring days?

Because our itineraries involve staying in different cities on different nights of the tour in order to maximize the sightseeing time while minimizing your time driving to and from sights, you will not be able to skip a touring day to hang out at the hotel on most days of the tour because you would miss being transported on the bus to the next city that we will stay overnight.  There are exceptions where we stay at hotels/cities for multiple days, but our tours are designed to see as many sights as possible, so skipping a days’ sightseeing is not recommended, and rarely an option.

You are responsible for bringing the correct travel documents to your event. For international travel, every person in your reservation (including children) must have a valid passport that won’t expire until six months after the completion of your trip – no exceptions.

Please note that U.S. Passport Cards are NOT accepted as valid I.D. for International Travel – you must carry a valid passport book.

For non-US citizens/non-US passport holders, we advise consulting with your country’s embassy for specific entry requirements into every country on your itinerary.

**Starting January 1, 2025, all travelers to Israel will need to fill out the ETA-IL travel arrival form.  This form is intended for all travelers who are exempt from obtaining a visa before entering Israel, generally speaking, North American, European and Australian passport holders. 

Click here for more information about this Travel Application and Step-by Step instructions on how to complete this form.  Click here to be taken directly to the ETA-IL registration page. 

October in Israel is considered one of the best times to visit, offering a perfect, “Goldilocks” shoulder-season climate with warm, dry days and comfortable evenings. The intense summer heat breaks, allowing for pleasant exploration of cities, deserts, and hiking trails. Temperatures: Daytime highs typically range from 75°F to 84°F (24°C–29°C), while nights are cooler, often falling into the 60s°F (16°C–19°C).

Below is a checklist to help you pack for your exceptional travel experience.  We suggest packing a change of clothes, toiletries and any medications you need in your carry-on bag.

While the tour is considered casual, when visiting Churches and Holy Sites, you’ll need to cover your shoulders and knees – no shorts/tank tops for men and no shorts or skirts above the knees are permitted, and at these sites all shoulders should be covered. Your guide will notify you in advance of these requirements.

Packing Checklist

• Layering is essential. Pack light clothing like t-shirts for warm days, along with a light jacket or sweater for the cooler evenings. A waterproof jacket or small umbrella is recommended for occasional rain. 
• Bring comfortable walking shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so make sure your feet are happy – comfortable walking shoes or sandals with rubber soles
• Casual clothes including pants, jeans, shorts, T-shirts, collared shirts or blouses
• Lightweight sweater or jacket
• Formal outfits are not needed – while the dress is casual on the cruise, shorts/beachwear is NOT permitted in the dining room
• Don’t forget swimwear: If you plan to float in the Dead Sea or be baptized in the Jordan River, make sure to pack swimwear.
• Raincoat or compact umbrella
• Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen
• Toiletries in a sealed, clear bag inside your luggage
• Minor first-aid care items such as Band-Aids, aspirin, hand sanitizer, etc.
• Medications in their original containers – this includes both prescription medication and over the counter medication-please also have a copy of the Doctor’s prescription and a photo of the actual medication on your phone – if you go to a pharmacy in Greece the pharmacist requires a photo of the prescription AND the actual medication itself.
• Hair care appliances (see electronic information in the next FAQ section)
• Small bag or backpack for port days that is large enough to carry your camera and other personal items
• Passport with separate photocopy (see below for more information)

Daily Dress Code

When visiting churches, avoid wearing shorts, and women should cover their arms. No need to cover your head.  

Tips About Luggage, Carry-Ons, and More

• Pack light: Comfortable, casual clothing is key. Leave the suits and fancy dresses for another occasion.
• Bring comfortable walking shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so make sure your feet are happy.
• Layer your clothing: Use the “onion method” to dress in layers. Even on warm days, air conditioning on buses and in buildings can be chilly. Always bring a light sweater or jacket, especially in the summer months.
• Check the weather: Weather can vary, so it’s a good idea to check the forecast for different regions to help you pack accordingly.
• Respect local dress codes: Greece is fairly relaxed when it comes to dress, but when visiting religious sites, you’ll need to cover your shoulders and knees. Your guide will notify you in advance of these requirements.

Important Documents—Make Copies!

Before you leave, make photocopies of your passport and any credit cards you’ll be using. Leave one copy at home and keep another with you in your suitcase. This makes it easier to replace your passport in case it gets lost. We also recommend making a copy of your tour confirmation letter to leave with a friend or family member at home so they know where you’re staying and can contact you in an emergency.  Do not pack your passport or travel documents in your checked luggage. In case your passport is lost, we suggest keeping a color copy of the information page inside your luggage.

Carry-on:  Airline regulations are subject to change and will charge for baggage overages (number of bags and weight of luggage) so make sure to check with your airline(s) before packing.

Please make sure to keep at least a couple of days supply of any medication in your Carry On bag on the airplane.  If your check-in luggage is lost during your international flight, you will have your needed medication on your person until a new prescription can be obtained.

Make certain your suitcase closes and fastens securely. Mark ALL of your luggage and carry-on bag with your name and address so you can distinguish them easily. We also recommend you put identification information—name, address and phone number—INSIDE your luggage in case the luggage tags are lost in transit.

How much can luggage can I bring with me?

*please check the airlines restrictions and luggage weight and size restrictions – the below reflects the tour operations allowance, NOT airline allowance. If you have additional restrictions by the airlines, abide by their restrictions and allowances. All airlines are different. *If the airlines have a higher allowance than what is provided below, you will be required to abide by the tours’ restrictions – example would be two check in sized luggage per person which is not allowed.

• We recommend that you bring no more than one check in back and one carry on bag that you are able to handle yourself, you will be handling your luggage some of the time. 

For more information, please call one of our Travel Specialists at 877-248-8687, Monday through Friday between 8:30am – 5:00pm, Pacific Time.

You will want to bring both a Voltage converter and Plug prong adaptor to protect your electronics on the tour.  While a converter adjusts the voltage, an adapter is simply a device that allows the US plug to fit into a Israel outlet.  Israel outlet voltage and plugs are different that those in the U.S.

The standard voltage in Israel (220 V) is much higher than the voltage level your devices typically operate at in the United States (120 V). Without a converter, you risk serious damage to your devices.

We always recommend getting a UNIVERSAL Conversion kit that has both a voltage converter AND multiple plug prongs for travel around the world. – You can get Universal voltage/converter kits on Amazon

Adaptors used in Israel

• H Adaptor

Voltage:

• Israel: 220 Voltage
• United States: 120 Voltage.  

Where can I do my laundry?

Hotels offer laundry services, but they can be pricey. These services are usually available only for guests staying multiple nights. There are no self-service laundry machines, so here’s a tip from one of our travel experts: “In the evenings, I spot clean my clothes with shampoo or wash small items in the shower. After rolling them in a towel, I hang them up to dry.”

Is there Wi-Fi?

• • Your hotels will have free Wi-Fi.
  • The tour bus will have access to Wi-Fi.

Staying Connected with Family and Friends

If you plan to take your cell phone, contact your service provider to ask about international usage plans. Many carriers offer temporary international plans for travelers. Most hotels in Israel provide Wi-Fi, so you can also stay in touch via text or messaging apps when connected.

Are there restrooms on the Tour buses?

No -there are no restrooms on the bus – however we stop regularly.

Do I Need a Passport to Travel?

You’ll need a passport valid for at least six months from the date you enter Israel. United States citizens will be issued tourist visas free of charge upon entry. Passport policies are subject to change without notice – it is your responsibility the current regulations before traveling.

Do I Need a Visa to Travel?

U.S. passport holders do not need to apply for a Visa to travel to Israel.  For those traveling with passports issued by a country other than the U.S., please consult your nearest Israeli Consulate or Embassy to determine if you will need to apply for a Visa to enter Israel.  Please allow plenty of time (3+ months) to apply for and receive any applicable Visa.  AIT does not handle any Visa services.

**Starting January 1, 2025, all travelers to Israel will need to fill out the ETA-IL travel arrival form.  This form is intended for all travelers who are exempt from obtaining a visa before entering Israel, generally speaking, North American, European and Australian passport holders. 

Click here for more information about this Travel Application and Step-by Step instructions on how to complete this form.  Click here to be taken directly to the ETA-IL registration page. 

Other than the above ETA-IL visa which can be obtained on line, U.S. and Canadian citizens do not need a special visa to visit Israel -just a valid passport (valid for at least 6 months). Visitors are allowed to stay in the country for three months from date of arrival. However, visitors from most European countries, Mexico, Latin America, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and many others countries do require visas. To check the requirements for other nationalities contact the Consulates in your area for the countries you will be visiting on your tour.  Visa polices are subject to change without notice – it is your responsibility the current regulations before traveling.

Is It Safe To Travel in Israel now?

Yes, it is generally considered safe for tourists to travel to most of Israel now, with life returning to normal in many areas, but specific border zones (like near Lebanon, Gaza, and parts of the West Bank) still have risks and require caution or avoidance, and travelers should always monitor local security alerts for potential rocket attacks and follow guidance from sources like the Home Front Command. Major sites are open, but tourists should be aware of the possible regional tensions in the below areas:

• Gaza: All travel is advised against
• Near Lebanon Border: Avoid areas within 500m of the border
• West Bank: Avoid all but essential travel to Jenin, Tulkarm, and Tubas governorates; restricted areas near Nablus. 
• Golan Heights: Avoid the Alpha Line area

Do I need shots or immunizations?

No. Israel is a developed country with a level of health and hygiene equal to that of the United States. Visitors entering Israel are not required to undergo vaccinations prior to their arrival. If in doubt, or if you are currently under the care of a doctor, please check with your physician.

Here’s a list of some of the most important travel tips from the U.S. Department of State:

What Currency is used in Israel?

New Israeli Shekel – Make sure to check the exchange rate before you go. Most businesses in Israel accept major credit cards (Mastercard and Visa),  but for smaller vendors and kiosks you will want to have cash. You can always change money in country – your guides will take you to a reputable location to change money and there are ATMs located in convenient locations that will dispense local currency.   Airports have notoriously high exchange rates. 

Make sure to alert your Bank and/or Credit Card company prior to departure if you plan to use your credit/debit cards while traveling

How Do I Pay at Local Stores? US Dollars?

Great news! The US dollar is widely accepted in Israel  While it’s not necessary to convert currency, be aware that your change will be given in Israeli Shekels (NIS). To avoid confusion, try to pay as close to the amount due as possible. For instance, if you’re buying something worth $3, it’s best not to use a $20 bill unless you’re a currency conversion expert!

How Far Are the Major Cities From Each Other?

Israel is a small country. The three major centers: Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Haifa can easily be reached on leisure touring days without changing hotels, an important feature for short visits. When planning your trip, it helps to know how far and how much time it will take to get from place to place. See the chart below for approximate distances.

 How can I get around on my own in Israel:    

Transportation within Israel is easy, reliable, and inexpensive. There are several options to get you from place to place quickly.

• Bus: The most popular form of transportation in Israel, you can buy tickets at any city’s central bus station or from the driver. The Egged bus company offers routes between most of Israel’s major cities, and also local service within the larger cities and towns. Line 99 in Jerusalem, a London-style double-decker tour bus, allows passengers to hop on and off at all the major tourist sites around the city. Bus service in Tel Aviv is provided by the Dan bus company, and service in Beersheba and Nazareth is provided by smaller, private companies. Fares are reasonable, buses are comfortable and air-conditioned, and there is regular, frequent service, except on Shabbat (Friday afternoon- Saturday evening) and Jewish holidays.
• Private Taxi: A more expensive option, taxis can be flagged down or ordered by phone almost anywhere, and they’ll take you around town or between cities. Drivers must charge by the meter within the city. The fares between cities are standard fares set by law. There is an additional charge for taxis reserved by phone and for each suitcase that is not hand luggage. Rates for evenings, Shabbat (Saturday) and Jewish holidays are 25% more than the normal fare. Always verify the fare with the driver before getting in the cab.
• Shared Service Taxis (Sherut): These shared taxis leave from the central bus stations of larger cities and follow the same routes as the bus. Their prices are usually equal to or less than the bus fares. There are no set schedules, they leave when they are full. You can request a stop anywhere along the route.

What Languages Are Spoken in Israel?

Although Hebrew and Arabic are Israel’s official languages, English is Israel’s adopted second language, spoken so extensively that even street signs are also in English. More languages can also be noticed, such as French, Russian, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Romanian, Hungarian and Italian.

How Can I Talk With the Locals?

Native-born Israelis are nicknamed sabras, after the prickly pear found growing here. Like the sabra, they may seem prickly on the outside, but they’re actually sweet inside. So don’t be afraid to say hello, make conversation, or ask questions. Most everyone speaks at least three languages: Hebrew, Arabic, and English.

Here are some basic Hebrew words you should know: