Chanukah Tour Israel!

December 16th - 25th, 2011

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Day 1 Friday December 16th

ARRIVE IN ISRAEL!

Welcome at Ben Gurion Airport

After exiting customs a SHALOM ISRAEL TOURS representative will be waiting to welcome and transfer you to your waiting chauffeur and on to your hotel in Tel Aviv.

Arrive to Tel Aviv

Stretched along the beautiful beach strip of the Mediterranean, Tel Aviv is Israel’s largest city and biggest commercial center. It is a busy metropolis, which inspires its visitors with a unique energetic atmosphere of excitement and fun.

Nachlat Binyamin Arts & Crafts Fair

Every Tuesday and Friday, this average street comes alive with the work of over 200 artists. Displaying Israeli made crafts, including jewelry and other interesting one-of-a-kind gifts, this fair is a great place to buy gifts, pamper yourself, and people-watch.

Overnight: Tel Aviv Hotel Options

Day 2 Saturday December 17th

TEL AVIV – FREE DAY AT LEISURE IN THE MODERN CITY

Dizengoff St., Shenken St. & Rothchilde Ave

Filled with unique vendors and funky coffee shops along with simple kiosks and local Falafel and Shawarma stalls- it is enough to bring out a little “Bohemian” in anyone who walks down these streets.

The Carmel Market

If you want a great place to experience local culture and get some great deals on household items and fresh foods, visit the largest bazaar market in Tel Aviv. Exotic aromas, beautiful colors, and some of the freshest produce around, The Carmel Market is a must-see.

Tel Aviv – Jaffa Promenade

The Jaffa Promenade goes from Jaffa all the way to the Old Port in Tel Aviv. The promenade gives tourists an amazing view of the skyline of Tel Aviv as well as a new perspective of the beauty of the city, set to the backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea.

The Tel Aviv Port

This port holds a world of leisure and entertainment along the beautiful shoreline, including live performances, art exhibitions, shopping, weekend markets, and an amazing culinary experience for your palette, brought to you by some of the best restaurants and chefs in Tel Aviv.

Overnight: Tel Aviv Hotel Options

Day 3 Sunday December 18th

ISRAEL’S COAST – ANCIENT PORTS OF CONQUERERS

Ancient City of Caesarea

After breakfast we’ll say farewell to Tel Aviv and head north along Israel’s coast.  We will travel to the Caesarea National Park contains an impressive Roman Amphitheatre, the Hippodrome- a 20,000 seat horse racing arena, and the Roman Aqueducts.

National Maritime Museum

Head towards Haifa and take in the breathtaking view from the famous Mount Carmel along the way. Next, you’ll relive Israeli and international maritime history at this incredible museum. Its unique collection includes thousands of artifacts which enable visitors to gain a true understanding of maritime history, including mythology, ship architecture, naval battles, ancient to modern seafaring, and ethnology of seafaring societies.

Acco Fortified Walls

Next we’ll head to one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world- Acco, dating back to the time of the Pharaoh Thutmose III (1504-1450 BCE). A walk along the land wall and along the sea wall is a unique experience, which illustrates the military strength of the protected city.  You’ll also have an opportunity to explore the local market!

Rosh Hanikra

Next stop is Rosh Hanikra to see the beautiful grottoes made from waves hitting the soft chalk rock. Ride from the mountain top down to sea level via cable car to explore the Grotto’s formed over thousands of years – truly a wonder of creation.

Dinner & Overnight: Kibbutz Lavi Hotel, Southern Galilee

Day 4 Monday December 19th

NORTHERN GOLAN AND TZFAT – THE CITY OF KABALLAH

Tzfat – Safed – The Holy City of Air

Begin your day in Tzfat, the City of Air; one of the four holy cities in Israel.  It has been a spiritual center since the 1600’s when it was the center of Kabbala (Jewish mysticism).  One of Israel’s holiest cities awaits soul-seekers, nature enthusiasts, and historians to its cobblestone, art-lined streets, majestic mountains, and Kabbala-infused atmosphere.

Tzfat Artists Quarter

Browse Israel’s best religious art as you wander through ancient narrow cobblestone streets. You’ll see men and women deeply engaged in the creative, often religious, process of artistry; yet the friendly artists always have time to speak with tourists who pop into their workshops.

Unique Tzfat Synagogues

The best way to truly capture the holiness of Tzfat is to go on a tour of the city’s ancient synagogues and gravesites to experience the spiritual past and present of Tzfat. Learn about the strong impacts these synagogues and holy people still have today.

Jeeping in the Golan Heights 

Take an exhilarating ride through the Golan Heights via jeep! With the sun on your face and the wind in your hair, you’ll venture up, down, and all around the luscious green hills of the North. Keep an eye out for bright and blooming fields of flowers and wild animals grazing!

Tel Facher Syrian Base

Learn about one of the fiercest battles of Israel’s history, the Six Day War, as you explore this Syrian base. Discover the valor of the Israeli soldiers who bravely conquered this territory in 1967. Survey the remnants of the base and wander through the trenches in the 50 year old footsteps of the heroic Golani soldiers who captured this mountaintop.

The Banias Falls

This archaeological site was formerly known as the city of Caesarea Philippi, located at the foot of Mount Hermon. Today, it serves as a nature reserve full of luscious green and beautiful flora and ancient ruins- a sight to see!

Tel Chai Court 

Here you’ll step into the exact room where the battle of Tel Chai to learn about the heroic battle of Josef Trumpeldor and his comrades in 1920. In the summer months, you can experience the interactive museum tour and view an incredible audio-visual presentation.

Dinner & Overnight: Kibbutz Lavi Hotel, Southern Galilee

Day 5 Tuesday December 20th

TIBERIAS & JORDAN VALLEY – 1ST NIGHT OF CHANUKAH!

Graves of Holy Sages

Discover Tiberias’s Rabbinical history and visit the burial sites of some of the most famous Rabbis in Judaism, including the Rambam, Rabbi Akiva, and Rabbi Meir Ba’al Haness. Hear about the significant effects these Rabbi’s had on the history of the Jewish people as well their visible effects that remain today.

Beit Shean National Park

Go back in time to the Roman and Byzantine eras at this monumental history site! Fight fierce gladiatorial battles at the excavated amphitheater, or relive biblical times as you stroll down a colonnaded street along the ruins of ancient buildings.

Beit Alfa Synagogue 

Built during the Byzantine era, this excavated synagogue is most known for its magnificent mosaic filled with intricate artistic detail. This stunning piece of art was created in the 5th century and is miraculously still very much intact.

Ascend to Jerusalem

End the day with a beautiful drive through the Jordan Valley towards Jerusalem. You’ll stop at Mount Scopus as you enter the city to say the blessing of “Shehechiyanu” to celebrate the joyous occasion of entering the holy capital.

Bringing in the Light – The First Night of Chanukah in the Holy Land

Tonight is the first night of the joyous holiday of Chanukah. In Israel, store-fronts, streets, and windows light up and spread the festive energy of the holiday throughout the country. Gather your friends and family around to light the candles and begin the first of 8 incredible nights!

Night Spectacular at the Tower of David

The walls of the Citadel serve as a stage for a nighttime show which is a celebration of sight and sound. Amidst the archaeological remains in the Citadel’s courtyard and to the sound of original music, the story of Jerusalem unfolds through giant breathtaking, virtual reality images. Be whisked off into a one-of-a-kind multi-sensory experience!

Overnight: Jerusalem Hotel Options

Day 6 Wednesday December 21st

JERUSALEM’S OLD CITY – 2ND NIGHT OF CHANUKAH!

King David’s Tomb

First stop is Mount Zion to view the tomb of Israel’s famous king. Jews have come here for centuries to recite psalms written by King David, whose life teaches many lessons about human nature. King David’s influence was so great that the first song that many children in Israel learn is written for him, and evokes that sense that his spirit is still with us today.

The Jewish Quarter

Steeped in both ancient and modern Jewish and cultural history, here in the Jewish Quarter you’ll venture through the Cardo, a colonnaded style street that was the heart of a major Roman city built atop the rubble of Jerusalem. Today, you can experience the Cardo much as it was in ancient times with shop-lined streets as you combine modernity and history into one!

The Four Sephardic Synagogues

Can you find all four? Located deep in the heart of the Jewish Quarter, these synagogues are hardly visible to the naked eye due to the need for secrecy during Muslin rule beginning in the late 1500’s. Restored to their magnificence in 1967, these synagogues shed light on ritual items used by the Sephardic Jewish community hundreds of years ago.

Western Wall Tunnels

Descend into these infamous tunnels that are enriched with thousands of years of history. These tunnels tell the story of the ancient Jews living during the period of the two temples.  Stand on the original Roman Street from the times of Herod the Great and watch as the hidden layers of the Western Wall are revealed before your eyes.

Davidson Center Archeology Gardens

Here you can explore the rich and vibrant history of the temple mount, including a recent excavation of seventh century royal palaces. Hear the enthralling tales of some the most historically valued sites in Israel while standing only steps away from those very sites.

Tower of David Museum

At this one-of-a-kind museum, visitors travel back in time and walk through 4,000 years of Jerusalem’s beautiful history. Travel from the 1st Temple period to the 2nd Temple period in a matter of minutes and marvel at the many exhibits that feature the atmosphere of Jerusalem under its various rulers and periods of its history.

Sweet Chanukah Treats – The Second Night of Chanukah in the Holy Land

At any bakery you pass the delicious smell of sufganiot, or jelly donuts, will waft out and draw you in! Be sure to grab yourself one (or two!) of the popular Chanukah treats before day’s end. Once the sun sets – it’s time to light the second candle on the Chanukiah!

Overnight: Jerusalem Hotel Options

Day 7 Thursday December 22nd

JERUSALEM NEW CITY – 3RD NIGHT OF CHANNUKAH!

The Kotel (The Western Wall)

Here stands one of the most sacred sites in all of Jerusalem; the remnant of the ancient Jewish Temple. Jews come from all over the world to pray at the wall and feel its strong spiritual presence. While you’re here, write down your biggest wish and place it in the wall, following the tradition of thousands of years of the Jewish people who come here and pour their hearts out in prayer.

Meah She’arim

Here you will have a close encounter with the ultra-Orthodox residents of Jerusalem. Notice the unique and varied garb that highlights the tradition and values of the residents. Don’t miss all the Judaica stores, bookstores, and eateries that Meah She’arim has to offer.

Israel Museum & Model of Jerusalem

Ranked among the world’s leading art and archaeology museums, here guests are able to truly experience Israel’s rich artistic history. Explore Second Temple Judaism with the pre-destruction Temple model, or pursue the ancient Dead Sea Scrolls at the Shrine of the Book.

Mount Herzl

Memorialize the political figures who built the modern State of Israel and the IDF soldiers who died fighting for its creation by visiting Mount Herzl, Jerusalem’s national cemetery.

The Yad Vashem Holocaust History Museum

This museum presents the story of the Holocaust from a unique Jewish perspective, emphasizing the experiences of the individual victims through original artifacts, personal possessions, and survivor testimonies.  The museum will help re-instill the powerful message that Holocaust museums all over the world embody: Never forget.

Ammunition Hill 1967 War Trenches & Memorial

After breakfast we’ll begin our day by learning about the lives of those who fought and died at the site of one of the fiercest battles fought during the 1967 Six Day War.  Explore the heroic lives of the Israeli soldiers who gave their own lives for the victory and reunification of the holy city of Jerusalem.

Chanukah Lights Tour & Celebration – The Third Night of Chanukah

Take an exclusive Chanukah Night Tour of the unique neighborhood of Nachlaot to be dazzled by the lights that illuminate each window you pass. Following the tour, enjoy an authentic Chanukah Party & special 3rd night candle lighting at the home of your guide!

Overnight: Jerusalem Hotel Options

Day 8 Friday December 23rd

THE JUDEAN DESERT – 4th NIGHT OF CHANUKAH!

Qumran Dead Sea Scroll Caves

This fascinating ancient settlement is a desert cave that was once home to the Essenes almost 2,200 years ago. Explore the museum that tells the story of the archeological birthplace of the famed Dead Sea Scrolls, the oldest biblical manuscripts ever found.

Masada Mountain Fortress & Cable Car

Ride up to the top of Masada and explore what remains of King Herod’s palace. You’ll be able to imagine what it was like to live there as you view the well preserved baths, cisterns, barracks, and more.

Dead Sea Float & Mud Experience (Private Spa Entrance Optional)

Enjoy a relaxing, therapeutic day in this oasis of warm, buoyant water and mineral-rich mud in the middle of the Judean Wilderness!

Towards evening…..Welcome Shabbat at the Western Wall

After you return from your day of touring freshen up and head down to the Western Wall, also known as the” Kotel” in Hebrew to welcome Shabbat in Jerusalem.  Get ready for an evening you’ll never forget!

The Miracle of Chanukah – The Fourth Night of Chanukah in the Holy Land

Wouldn’t it be a miracle if that last drop of milk lasted for your coffee for 8 days? It sure would – well a very similar story happened on Chanukah. At this time, we remember the miracle of the oil burning for 8 long nights, when there was only enough to last for one! Take some time to share the Chanukah story with family & friends! Tonight, gather around to light the 4th candle on the Chanukiah.

Overnight: Jerusalem Hotel Options

Day 9 Saturday December 24th

SHABBAT IN JERUSALEM – 5TH NIGHT OF CHANUKAH!

Shabbat Morning

Enjoy a morning at leisure

Muslim Quarter Shabbat Walking Tour – Optional

Discover an entire hidden world within the secret alleyways of the Old City Muslim Quarter.  Filled with oft-forgotten historical and Jewish religious sites, learn the stories of the Jewish families that lived in the Muslim Quarter nearly one-century ago, and the pioneers who re-inhabit their homes today.

Windmill and Yemin Moshe Sunset Tour – Optional

Take a trip to the town created by Moses Montefiore. Be sure to make time for the Montefiore Windmill, which houses the various achievements of this famous philanthropist and the many contributions he gave to the Jewish people in the anticipation of the creation of the state of Israel.

Lots O’Latkes – The Fifth Night of Chanukah in the Holy Land

Another Chanukah staple is the famous latke. Make a note to taste one of these scrumptious potato pancakes during your trip. For an added bonus, dip it into some sour cream or applesauce – yum! Tonight, you’ll light the 5th candle on the Chanukiah – things are getting quite bright!

Overnight: Jerusalem Hotel Options

Day 10 Sunday December 25th

FAREWELL FOR NOW – 6th NIGHT OF CHANUKAH

Transfer to Ben Gurion Airport for your temporary departure from Israel…

The Dizzy Dreidel – The Sixth Night of Chanukah in the Holy Land

For your flight home, be sure to pick up a dreidel or two to keep yourself occupied on the plane! The dreidel’s have 4 letters on them, symbolizing the words for a Great Miracle Happened Here (or There) – depending on where you are in the world. Don’t forget to light the 6th candle before you go! We’ll miss you…

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HOTELS INCLUDED

Enjoy your stay at some of Israel’s finest hotels

  • 2 nights hotel in Tel Aviv, The Modern City
  • 2 nights hotel in Northern Israel
  • 5 nights hotel in the Holy City of Jerusalem

SERVICES INCLUDED

Ensuring that your visit is easy, comfortable, and fun!

  • Welcome at Ben Gurion Airport
  • Arrival & Departure Transfers
  • 6 Days Touring in an Air-Conditioned Coach
  • All Guiding with a Professional English Speaking Guide
  • Special Evening Activities: Tower of David Night Show, Sunset Touring, Chanukah Menorah Lighting & Latke Party.
  • Menorah’s Provided on the First Day of your Tour as a Gift to Keep.

MEALS INCLUDED

Get a taste of authentic Israeli cuisine

  • Authentic Israeli-style breakfast buffet every day!
  • 2 delicious dinners at your northern hotel!
  • Private Venue Chanukah Party in Jerusalem

TOUR SITES INCLUDED

Explore Israel’s myriad of historical and modern sites

  • Ancient City of Caesarea
  • National Maritime Museum
  • Acco Fortified Walls
  • Rosh Hanikra Grottoes
  • Tzfat – Safed the Holy City of
  • Air Tzfat Artists Quarter
  • Unique Tzfat Synagogues
  • Jeeping in the Golan Heights
  • Tel Facher Abandoned Syrian Base
  • The Banias Falls
  • Tel Chai Court
  • Graves of Holy Sages
  • Beit Shean National Park
  • Beit Alfa Synagogue
  • Gan HaShlosha National Park
  • King David’s Tomb
  • The Jewish Quarter
  • The Four Sephardic Synagogues
  • Western Wall Tunnels
  • Davidson Center Archeology Gardens
  • Tower of David Museum
  • The Kotel (The Western Wall)
  • Meah She’arim Neighborhood
  • The Israel Museum
  • Mount Herzl Museum
  • The Yad Vashem Holocaust Museum
  • Ammunition Hill
  • Qumran Dead Sea Scroll Caves
  • Masada Mountain Fortress & Cable Car
  • Dead Sea Float & Mud Experience

Tour package pricing below is per person double occupancy in hotels, contact us for single & triple tour package rates.

Hotel
Options
3 Star
First Class
4 Star
First Class
4 Star Superior 5 Star
Deluxe Class
5 Star
SuperDeluxe
Tel Aviv
Hotels
Prima Hotel Dan Panorama Crowne
Plaza
Herrods
Hotel
Carlton
Hotel
Northern
Kibbutz
Kibbutz Lavi
Lev Wing
Kibbutz Lavi
Hod Wing
Kibbutz Lavi
Hadar Wing
Kibbutz Lavi
Dlx Hadar Wing
Kibbutz Lavi
Dlx Hadar Wing
Jerusalem
Hotels
Prima
Hotels
Dan
Panorama
Crowne
Plaza
Leonardo
Plaza
David
Citadel
  • 3 Star First Class Hotel Package: $2,055

  • 4 Star Superior Class Hotel Package: $2,115

  • 5 Star Superior Class Hotel Package $2,495

  • 5 Star Deluxe Class Hotel Package: $2,975

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