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• Easy Israel Tours – Exclusive tours to Israel for seniors and slow walkers

Easy Israel Tours – Exclusive tours to Israel for seniors and slow walkers Claimed

Checkout easy israel tours – exclusive tours to israel for seniors and slow walkers watch video, niche tours to israel for seniors and slow walkers., do you dream about visiting israel… but worry about being left behind on a regular, exhausting, fast-paced tour.

Could you keep up with their 8-to-10-hour days, walking up to 4 miles, steps, standing, rough ground, hills… all day, every day?!

Our Easy Israel Tours are escorted and especially designed by a physical therapist for slow walkers or seniors at a relaxed and sensible pace. The comprehensive itinerary has minimal standing, steps, slopes or rough ground.

You won’t have to worry about struggling to keep up with a regular fast-paced tour.

Everyone can see every sight in our itinerary… you won’t be left behind!

We run our exclusive tours in spring and fall, the most comfortable seasons to visit Israel. The temperature is around 70F.  Our aim is to provide you with a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime vacation and experience in the most special place on earth.

2023 Dates & Costs:

23 rd October to 2 nd November 2023

US$5,500 per person (plus US$1,500 single supplement)

2024 Dates & Costs:

6 th to 16 th May 2024 and 28 th October to 7 th November 2024

US$5,900 per person (plus US$1,600 single supplement)

The comfortable hotels rooms have air con, TV and ensuite bathrooms with a walk-in shower. The hotels we use are frequented by locals for their own vacations, celebrations and business meetings. If these hotels don’t give good service and food, it will be around Israel on social media within days and give them a bad name. We all want quality as well as comfort, don’t we? Not the big soul-less tourist hotels.

Delicious Kosher breakfasts and evening meals are included in the tour price. Fresh from the kibbutzim, there are plenty of choices for everyone’s dietary requirements.

Trish Duke, (the Founder and Tour Director of Easy Israel Tours) has combined her 30 years of physical therapy experience, love of Israel and a travel addiction to offer you her one-of-a-kind tours for the less-able travellers and those just preferring a slower pace.

Our experienced, licensed, Jewish guides inform, inspire and lead us to authentic, interesting and often less-known sites as well the most desired places to visit.

Legends Tours & Travel, our agent in Jerusalem, books the hotels, transportation, entrances to sites, etc. Between Trish Duke, the guide and Legends we have over 100 years of experience.

Starting in Tel Aviv with drinks, dinner then a good night’s sleep, we travel up to Caesarea and beyond for three nights in the Galilee/ Golan Heights, two nights over Shabbat at Ein Bokek by the Dead Sea and of course, the jewel in the crown, Jerusalem for four nights.

The full itinerary can be viewed on the lower half of the  ‘Jewish Tours’ page on EasyIsraelTours.com

While you are on the website, please  check the ‘ Reviews’ page  to see what past guests have to say.

Many guests like to arrive a day early to wander around Tel Aviv, enjoy the Mediterranean beaches and get over the jetlag.

Adding one day in Jerusalem at the end of the tour is popular. You won’t want to go home anyway!  Visit the shuk, explore parts of the Old City not included in the tour, have lunch at the King David hotel… Possibly with new tour friends.

We can book the pre and post hotel nights for you to save another hotel change.

Talking of changing hotels…

There are only 3 hotel changes on our tours and a full porterage service, so you don’t have to move luggage from your room to the bus.

The luxury bus has air con, Wi-Fi and speakers so you can hear the guide. Individual hearing devices are used out of the bus so you can hear the guide even from the bathroom! We have lots of bathroom stops on arrival and departure from a site…and on request.

Instead of giving us the information at each site while we stand for 15 minutes or so, our fully licenced guide shares most of their information while we are traveling in-between places. Saves time…and our bodies! There are more seats on the bus than we need so you can move around.

Seniors sometimes travel with a younger or fitter companion. 

The slower pace is not frustrating for more able guests, as they also enjoy the relaxed itinerary. There are opportunities for the more active guests to walk further in some places or have a swim or wander before the evening meals.

It would be an honour for you to join us!

If you send your phone number and time zone, Trish can call you to answer all your questions.

Contact: [email protected] Cell Phone & WhatsApp +61 414 543 843 https://www.easyisraeltours.com

Quick questions

Q do you have many solo travellers.

Our groups are an equal mix of solo, couples, friends and couples.

Q Can I bring a younger companion?

Of course! We often have a parent with an adult child.

Q Is there any reason why you wouldn't accept me on tour?

Everyone is welcome. You will manage our sensible paced itinerary if you can get up and down 4 bus steps and walk slowly with or without a mobility aid such as a cane, seat walker or wheelchair. We have scooters for hire.

Q Tell me more about the itinerary...

The pace is slow....so you can enjoy where you are and take photos. We do minimal steps (with handrails), minimal slopes and rough ground. The tours are designed and escorted by a physical therapist with 30 straight years of clinical experience.

17 Reviews for Easy Israel Tours – Exclusive tours to Israel for seniors and slow walkers

Barbara Davis

Great experience.

Hi Trish, I must tell you that there isn’t anything I would change about the recent Israel tour you hosted! It was so well organized, entertaining and really easy. Each day when I woke up in the morning, I was so anxious to get going on our adventure of the day! The van was comfortable and our tour guide was extremely knowledgeable, thorough and pleasant. Our hotels were comfortable which was important after our busy, entertaining days! It seems nothing was missing! The experience I had traveling with the you and the group was wonderful and I can’t imagine any trip could have been better!! Thank you so much, Barbara Davis

• Interesting

Thank you, Trish Duke!

My husband and I had a wonderful travel experience in Israel on the Spring, 2023 tour. It appealed to us because of my mild mobility and balance issues. It truly met all of our expectations, we visited many interesting sites of interest, and the needs of the tour group were always taken into consideration. Thank you, Trish Duke for a very enjoyable and well planned trip! Wendy

Diana Miller

My mom had an incredible experience.

Hello Trish! Just wanted to let you know that my mom had the most wonderful trip! What a gift it is that you provide this experience! Everything was just perfect! Your caring and compassion are evident in every little detail that allowed my 86-year-old mom to take this trip alone because she wasn’t alone from the moment she arrived – actually even before. Also, we greatly appreciated your communication beforehand (and to me during the trip) to answer every question and provide just the right amount of information to be helpful, but not overwhelming. Thank you, a thousand times! I very highly recommend this trip!

Marty Fineberg

I had a wonderful trip with Easy Israel and you. I was able to see so many wonderful places in Israel. I found it very moving to be on the sea of Galilee, singing Hatikvah while sailing along. I was also moved being at the Wall and at the Holocaust Museum. The accommodations were fabulous, much better than I expected. I am so glad that I went. I was worried that I would not be able to keep up, but we went at a pace that I was able to keep up with, while also being able to see everything that I wanted to. You designed a great trip. Thank you very much. Marty Fineberg https://myjewishlistings.com/listing/easy-israel-tours-niche-tours-to-israel-for-seniors-and-slow-walkers/ At your service Trish Duke Founder & Tour Leader of Easy Israel Tours Pty Ltd [email protected] Cell phone: +61 414 543 843 Call or text or WhatsApp this number Head Office in Australia Trish Duke Western Australia Cell phone: +61 414 543 843 USA Admin Assistant Susan Moore Easy Israel Tours Pty Ltd 940 Frazier Run Wheeling WV 26003 Cell: 859-559-1212 Psalm 122 verse 6 Pray for the peace of Jerusalem. May they prosper who love you.

Donna and Alan Weinstein

Great tour for the older set.

Donna and I had a lovely and memorable time on your tour. We are very happy we took the “easy” Israel tour as we were challenged but capable. Much more strenuous or concentrated tours would have been impossible for us. It is likely that this will be our last land tour and we will be relegated to river boat or ocean liner touring from now on. We can’t say enough about our tour guide Rachel, who was not only extremely knowledgeable but also very cognizant of the limitations of the group. It is amazing that she knew so many people at the various stops. She is a real gem. Our driver Hatim was perfect. Quiet and observant and with excellent skills is everything one would wish for. It was a pleasure to work with you and we will recommend your trip highly if asked. Alan S Weinstein MD and Donna F Weinstein

Wayne Lonngren

A spectacular success.

The tour was a spectacular success from the moment we first read about it on line through to right now as I am remembering it to write this review. In brief Sally and I cannot imagine how you could have apportioned the time better.

Searching the web we settled on Easy Israel Tours because it specifically addressed (and completely satisfied) three specific issues of concern to Sally.

The first two were the pace, she was concerned about lagging behind and delaying others, and high temperatures, heat. The tour was conducted so graciously and considerately that ”keeping up” was never an issue, in any sense. The time of year was perfect: dry, balmy and gorgeous.

From the initial internet/phone contacts with you we felt comfortable with and confident about your ability/knowledge. We were completely justified. You demonstrated exceptional interpersonal, organisational and administrative skills…not one hiccough occurred.

This tour exceeded any and all expectations established through previous excursions elsewhere around the world.

The tour was an amazing and even a life changing experience. Yes, we sincerely recommend it.

Nancy Evans

Trish, thank you so much for organizing this trip..

Trish, thank you so much for organizing this trip. I know it takes an enormous amount of time and energy and zillions of hours of planning. Plus you have to be on your toes 24/7 during the entire tour, always ready for the unexpected and ready to make that split second decision that will avoid total chaos. You are a an excellent organizer, never panic, great judge of character and you have a heart of gold. You truly care about each and every person who comes on your tour, and that makes all the difference! Add to that a lovely Aussie accent, patience and kindness beyond all limits and a great sense of humour…and that only begins to describe who you are! Take care Trish

Jane Sparling

An awesome trip.

You planned such an awesome trip for us, Trish. Anna and I thank you very much

Deborah Turner

I will forever cherish this magnificent tour.

Trish, I would personally like to thank you for such a spectacular tour of Israel. I was somewhat reluctant at first because I previously visited Israel with a lovely group of people however, the tour had a very demanding schedule making it almost impossible for a senior to keep up. Your tour allowed me to visit and participate in all the activities that you had pre-arranged. Your time frame was slower, and you were so considerate and attentive to everyone’s health challenges. The knowledge that I acquired helped clarified many unanswered questions about that special place. I highly recommend seniors with any health challenge to join you, or a person who prefers a smaller group. I will forever cherish this magnificent tour.

Priscilla Kelly

You are the best.

I’ve been on lots of tours but NEVER one as fantastic as this. I had such an awesome journey through Israel! You are “THE BEST”.

I feel so blessed to have been able to tour with You, Tal, and Bilal. It was most amazing. All of you took such great care of us and seemed to just love us from day one and went over and beyond anything I expected…..

I have shared with lots of my friends that they MUST go to Israel with ya’ll.

Kay Oppenheimer

I’m so glad we chose easy israel.

Knowing that I had promised my husband, who is Jewish, that we would one day travel to Israel, my morning walking buddy asked if I had heard of “Easy Israel”. So, I went online and read the whole website. I was intrigued with the Jewish Tour, because growing up “Christian” and knowing all the New Testament pretty well, I thought I’d learn the “other” side of the story. So began the adventure. I contacted Trish, who sent me all the pertinent information right away and over the following days, answered all my questions promptly. As a seasoned traveller, I knew there would be paperwork, funds transfers and all the minutiae involved in international travel. Trish made it easy, with detailed instructions as to how to do it all. Neither of us has ever joined a “tour” before, so we had some misgivings as to whether we’d enjoy being herded around a strange country with a bunch of strangers– but believe me, in retrospect, I wouldn’t have done it any other way. Every detail was handled with speed and accuracy. Even when all our four bags were mis-directed by the Galilee hotel onto the wrong bus instead of to our Jerusalem hotel. Dafna, (Trish’s local agent) tracked them down and got them back to us before we went to sleep that night. So, we had our toothbrushes – not to mention every other item we needed. If I’d have had to sort it out myself, I would have missed a night’s sleep and a whole lot of angst. The group consisted mainly of Americans, and most from the East Coast. After a couple of days, we didn’t need name tags any more, and people were bonding over common interests. We are still in touch via WhatsApp, and I think we’ll stay in touch. We all invited the others to visit our various homes in the future. Everyone was cooperative and duly thankful that we chose Easy Israel. Then there was Gidi (Gideon), our Israeli Guide. What a character he is! He is steeped in the historical knowledge of his country and led us into places that we would never have done on our own. There was a rocket attack from Gaza on our first morning near the hotel in Tel Aviv, and Gidi, along with all the staff at the hotel handled the whole affair with charm and humour. I heard a local saying that day – “They tried to kill us. They didn’t succeed. Let’s eat”. Gidi was able to take us to places that are not commonly on tour routes. For example, we planted trees in the Golan Heights and then went up to a memorial to the various wars that have happened since Israeli Independence. We passed old minefields and burned-out tanks, tank barriers and barbed wire. Also, we were privileged to attend a meeting of the Knesset the day before Netanyahu was indicted. We saw a young woman, a new member of the Knesset, giving her maiden speech. We also met with a former Mossad agent, an old friend and mentor of Gidi. He was fascinating. And speaking of EATING. OMG!! The food is outstanding. The variety of fresh fruits and vegetables available throughout the trip was incredible! And so healthy… I even lost 5 pounds over the two weeks. Of course, some of that might be due to pushing my husband up and down the cobbled streets of Old Jerusalem in a wheelchair. On the subject of wheelchairs. My husband has MS, and can walk for short periods, but not on uneven surfaces. Trish and Gidi and Bill-Al (our driver throughout the trip) had wheelchairs available and waiting at every stop and sight-seeing area. They also made sure his walker (which isn’t the easiest thing to fold) was out of the bus before we even disembarked. Bill-Al is astounding. He managed to navigate our bus through the narrow streets and parking lots like a greased sheep (no pigs in Israel) in a barrel. The hotels we stayed in were great. The Alexander in Tel Aviv was a “boutique” hotel right on the beach. Very modern, very comfortable, with a wonderful bathroom. The breakfasts were primo. The Hod Hotel at the Dead Sea was, again, right on the water, with a great view of the beach and an incredible buffet. In the Kinar Hotel, on the shores of Galilee, which I believe is a Kibbutz, we were surrounded with groups from all over the world, from Japan to Russia, and again, the buffet was amazing. I am so glad we chose Easy Israel. It lived up to everything I read about and more. Trish is a wonderful organiser and advocate for the less-able folks like my husband. She’s quite fierce when stopping the crowds from pushing and shoving us around. Not like England and the US, where queuing is the norm, people tend to rush to be first in Israel. She’d make a good member of an Australian Rules rugby team! I must say that a couple of things came as a surprise. One… the Sea of Galilee is a lot bigger than I had imagined. Two … Seeing pimpled teenagers, laughing and chattering while carrying lethal looking machine guns through the street of Jerusalem was at first shocking. Then I realised how much safer I felt the whole time I was in Israel, than I feel on the streets of San Francisco. And Three … The Dead Sea feels weird. Wonderful, but weird. You have to experience it to understand. I loved it.

Marlene Kelly

Thanks again for enriching my life.

Thanks again for enriching my life and showing such a great perspective of Israel. You made everything go so smoothly. Fantastic trip. What an amazing time with the people, tour guide (Tal) and tour director (Trish). So grateful to be part of this great experience with you all. Forever in your debt. Thank you so much

Caryn Musicer

Thank you for arranging such an exciting trip.

Thank you for arranging such an exciting trip. Overall, we were pleased with the sites and activities. The itinerary hit most of the spots we were interested in. We were concerned that our bodies would not hold up. Luckily, they did. Gidi, our guide was excellent. Communication and admin with Trish pre-tour was excellent. Thank you for all your coordination.

Susan Gwilliam

It was wonderful to travel with her for a trip of a lifetime.

We looked a long time for a tour that would manage mobility and energy issues, yet still be meaningful and fun. Finally we just typed in ‘easy tours’ and found Easy Israel Tours. Trish, this is a perfect name and led us right to your wonderful site! We are grateful we did this tour with Trish and her excellent team (our guide, Tal and bus driver, Bilal as well as Dafna from Legends); we truly doubt our first trip to Israel could have been any better or richer. The type and variety of locations, along with the depth of commentary while underway in the bus and on-site, provided history, archaeology, cultural and Biblical context. Each day was enriching and stimulating. But none of that would have mattered much had the tour not suited the people actually on the bus! Trish clearly knows what is needed but continues to tweak to accommodate the individuals on this particular tour and the changing conditions along the way. There must have been surprises for Trish and her team, but they made each moment as seamless as possible for us. We felt cared for and well-attended. Trish’s process from initial connection onward was positive and purposeful. We recognise now how important it is for her to assess whether or not the tour is a good fit for those interested. Traveling has its demands, but the thought and preparation put into this tour made them as minimal and manageable as possible. For those of us who could have done a more strenuous tour, there were opportunities to extend ourselves, but the pace suited us as well. Trish is kind, generous, thoughtful, thoroughly engaged, conscientious, knowledgeable and competent, but without any pretence. She also has a great sense of humour and fun! It was wonderful to travel with her for a trip of a lifetime!

I will cherish these memories forever

There wasn’t a moment that I felt unsafe or that I wouldn’t be able to perform the necessary “steps” to get where we needed to go. I have told everybody what wonderful care you provided for us. A friend of mine had returned from Israel about a month before my departure and warned me about the hills in Jerusalem and the amount of walking required. I was pleased to tell her that I was driven over all of that territory in style. I loved the small size of our group. It allowed us to form friendships. In summary, I could not have seen Israel with a regular tour. Trish, your gentle expertise allowed me to complete my bucket list safely and have some very special spiritual moments. There is no way to say THANK YOU because I will cherish these memories forever. We will meet again as promised!! Shalom and Much Love

Erika Gelber

Thank you trish for such an enjoyable experience.

Thank you Trish for such an enjoyable experience. You are professionally appreciated, and personally, a lovely lady! I felt very happy in your company! And will be very glad to encourage people to choose your tour!! It was my dear cousin, Arlene, who found you, following somebody’s recommendation. I did not feel very sure I would be able to go, because of my handicap with my hip, which frightened me. But I am very pleased and happy to have gone! Thanks to Arlene! She encouraged me!! The website description is very good, and for me, a complete ignorant on this subject, was very helpful. The organisation was so good, you cared about every little detail, for each and every member, in the hotels, during the tours, and any other smaller or silly problem was solved by you, even when a toothbrush was lacking!! The hotels were nice. The days were enjoyable, not too long, a bit tiring perhaps, but so interesting, I could have continued happily after a short break! Assume sleeping was wasting precious time!! But that is crazy me! A good rest helps a fuller appreciation! Arlene and I, chose to stay on in Jerusalem after the tour. We were very happy to have done that, and enjoyed it fully. You will never see enough of Jerusalem, there are always new and different surprises. Personally, I did not like the Shuk experience we had by ourselves and not included in your tour. The place is not recommendable for people with our handicaps because of the many stairs and crowds running over people. Trish, you were clever not to include it in the tour. We enjoyed every minute of the tour, and the group members turned out to be so nice, we made friends with everybody, and plan to remain keeping in touch through WhatsApp., The guide, Gidi, is clever, enthusiastic and encouraging. He was very informative, knows so much and has a very nice way of transmitting history, not only the written history but its interpretation, personal comments, and documentation about different stages regarding culture, manners and ethics, as well as the cause of rebellions and different attitudes of powerful embers of the population. It was never too much, and he would very nicely answer any question we made, and did not feel bad if he did not know the answer!! He also shared personal acquaintances, which we enjoyed, and I doubt other tour guideswould do. 10 out of 10 for him! And you Trish, turned out to be not only a very good tour agent, but a very nice and lovely person, whose company we all enjoyed. Later review on WhatsAPP I feel this tour has made a big difference in my life…and filled my soul with adorable new friends. Special thanks to dear Trish. You are such a thoughtful, sensible and dedicated person with sincere good feelings.I appreciate your professional assistance and sincere spontaneous care of us all. We enjoyed the excellent guide, Gidi, you picked for us. You all made this tour and unforgettable experience which I will treasure forever. Thank you, again dear Trish, for your dedicated care. Like Mother Hen looking carefully after all her chicks! THANK YOU, DEAR TRISH, FOR THIS OUTSTANDING OPPORTUNITY!

Arlene Karp

Once in a lifetime fabulous trip.

Trish, I want to let you know once again that I had a fantastic time on your tour. A once in a lifetime fabulous trip. I enjoyed everything about this trip. Trish, Gidi our guide and Bill-Al, the driver. What wonderful memories of our trip, the camaraderie, laughter, sharing of ourselves and of course the many photos I can share with my family.

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• Israel Tours

Israel Tours and Trips 2024/2025

From deserts to snow-covered mountains, the Middle Eastern oasis of Israel will leave you feeling transformed. The ancient city of Jerusalem attracts thousands each year with its cultural, religious and historic sites, while Tel Aviv is the hot-spot for food tours and a taste of local culture. Nature lovers will enjoy an expedition to Masada , an ancient fortress overlooking the Dead Sea.

• Israel Travel Guide
• Best Time to Visit Israel

171 Trips in Israel with 25 Reviews

• Starts Tel Aviv, Israel
• Ends Jerusalem, Israel

Biblical Israel

• Trip customizable
• Best price guaranteed
• Tour Type Group Tour
• Activities City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites City sightseeing , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Art and architecture 'data-more-tripid='17955'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hotel
• Transport Boat
• Age Range 8-95 yrs
• Operated in English
• Jun 06 10+ seats left
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

• Ends Tel Aviv, Israel

Biblical Lands - 8 days

• No booking fees
• Activities City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites City sightseeing , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Art and architecture & Museum and gallery visits 'data-more-tripid='15860'>+2 more
• Transport Coach & Private Vehicle
• Age Range 18-80 yrs
• Aug 05 Only 8 seats left
• Aug 26 Only 8 seats left

• Starts Jerusalem, Israel

Discover Israel & the Palestinian Territories

• Tour Type Small Group Tour
• Activities City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites City sightseeing , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Art and architecture 'data-more-tripid='3118'>+1 more
• Transport Private Vehicle, Train & Minibus
• Age Range 15-99 yrs
• Oct 19 Only 10 seats left
• Nov 09 10+ seats left

Classic Israel

• Activities City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites City sightseeing , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Museum and gallery visits & Art and architecture 'data-more-tripid='17953'>+2 more
• Transport Private Vehicle & Boat
• Jun 09 10+ seats left

Israel & the Palestinian Territories Real Food Adventure

• Activities Food tours
• Transport Private Vehicle
• Oct 16 10+ seats left
• Dec 11 10+ seats left

• Ends Bethlehem, Israel

Heritage & Holy Land - 8 days

• Activities City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites City sightseeing , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Art and architecture & Museum and gallery visits 'data-more-tripid='15968'>+2 more
• Transport Private Vehicle & Coach
• Aug 01 Only 8 seats left
• Aug 22 Only 8 seats left

Five Days in Israel & the Palestinian Territories

• Activities Adventure
• Accommodation Hostel
• Transport Bus & Flight
• Age Range 18-35 yrs
• Sep 25 10+ seats left
• Oct 23 10+ seats left

Best of Israel

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Honeymoon
• Transport Coach & Boat
• Age Range 5-99 yrs
• Jan 02 10+ seats left
• Jan 16 10+ seats left

Jerusalem, the Dead Sea & Tel Aviv Experience 5D/4N

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites
• Age Range 18-99 yrs
• Jun 07 10+ seats left

8 Days Highlights Of Israel

• Activities Art and architecture
• Transport Private Vehicle, Boat & Coach
• Age Range 10-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,280
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 342
• Total Price from: US$ 1,938
• Jun 23 10+ seats left
• Jul 14 10+ seats left

Classic Israel & the Palestinian Territories

• Activities City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites City sightseeing , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Art and architecture & Walking tours 'data-more-tripid='18180'>+2 more
• Transport Private Vehicle & 4WD Jeep
• Oct 17 10+ seats left
• Nov 28 10+ seats left

• Activities Art and architecture & Spiritual or religious tours
• Transport Minibus & Boat
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,367
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 355
• Total Price from: US$ 2,012
• Jun 24 10+ seats left
• Jul 15 10+ seats left

Christian Israel Tour Package, 4 Days From Jerusalem

• Activities Sightseeing Tours & Explorer Sightseeing Tours , Explorer & Spiritual or religious tours 'data-more-tripid='38468'>+1 more
• Age Range 4-99 yrs
• Jul 31 10+ seats left
• Aug 01 10+ seats left

Christian Israel Tour Package, 5 Days From Tel Aviv

• Activities Sightseeing Tours & Spiritual or religious tours Sightseeing Tours , Spiritual or religious tours & Honeymoon 'data-more-tripid='38487'>+1 more

Traveling to Israel? Chat with a local travel specialist in Israel who can help organize your trip.

Israel Tour Reviews

• Karen Clancy

Israel - Tour Highlights and Travel Tips

Holidays in Israel will show you an amalgamation of an ancient homeland and a modern world. From deserts to snow covered mountains, this Middle Eastern oasis will lead you to revelations that no newspaper or online article could ever express. A trip to Israel will leave you transformed because it will challenge every misconception you have ever heard.

Tour Highlights

• Travel to Israel’s north, and visit Mount Hermon; if you’re there at the right time, you might see some snow in this desert country.
• Sleep under the stars with the Bedouins in the Negev desert; enjoy a meal and tea, maybe even ride a camel.
• Visit the modern city of Tel Aviv, and experience the nightlife and the modernity of an otherwise ancient land.
• Smell, taste, and touch all of the food and drink Israel has to offer in outdoor markets, called shuks.
• Float in the Dead Sea; known for its magic mineral mud, this is the lowest place in Israel, and because of all of the salt, you are buoyant in the water.
• If you’re in Tel Aviv, go to the Olympic museum and learn of Israel’s checkered past with the Olympics.

Travel Tips

• If you’re in the shuk heckling and bargaining is welcomed and encouraged.
• Taxis and cars are a safe bet for transportation; the only thing to be aware of is the driving.
• When visiting Holy sites, like the Western Wall or the City of David, make sure to cover up; women in long skirts.
• Do not go to the shuks on Friday; people are dashing around trying to get their last licks in before Shabbat.
• Remember that from Friday night to Saturday night, Jerusalem and other cities shut down because of Shabbat; make sure you have everything you need before then.

Israel has seasonal weather so please do check up on the best time to visit Israel before planning your tour. And if you’re still hunting for more things to do and places to explore in Israel, do check out our Israel Travel Guide for more information.

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Israel Tours for Seniors

Explore Israel with other Seniors. These 145 tours include popular destinations like Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.

145 trips for 'over 50s' in Israel with 705 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Sightseeing
• Christmas & New Year

Jewish Israel Tour Package, 5 Days

We love the entire trip and were happy to cover most of the places in Israel.

Jewish Israel Tour Package, 7 Days

Made the days interest and showed a lot of care. Great ambassadors of the company.

• Coach / Bus

Heritage & Holy Land - 8 days

The tour was terrific and all I anticipated it would be - experiencing Israel in every way, shape and form everywhere we went!

Galilee, Golan, Caesarea and Nazareth 4 days

We had a fantastic tour to Galilee, Golan, Caesarea, and Nazareth. The communication and the booking process were smooth.

Biblical Lands 5 star - 8 days

Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and Dead Sea 4-Day Excursion

Masada sunrise - Ein Gedi - the Dead Sea - a wonderful mix of mountain hiking, walking in the park and then relaxing in the Dead Sea.

Past to the Future - The Story of the Israeli State - 11 days

Excellent tour so knowledgable will definitely book again

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Jewish Israel Luxury Tour 10 days

The connections to and from the airports were flawless. Our guide on the third day, Gil, skipped the visit to the Dead Sea Scrolls.

Israel - Holy Land Tour

Jerusalem and Dead Sea 4-Day Journey

The tour itself was okay. I definately know that was not part of the tour.

Israel - Amos' Tour

Jerusalem & Tel Aviv Adventure 7D/6N

Tel Aviv & Jerusalem Experience 4D/3N

Heritage of the Holyland Tour - 8 days

The tour was simply fantastic! Her knowledge and professionalism is only exceeded by her passion.

Biblical Israel

An excellent tour with an experienced and helpful guide. good accommodation and efficient transfers made this a real trip of a life-time.

What people love about Israel Tours for Seniors

Ami, Dima and all guides were excellent! And overall very well organized and thanks to Oksana for prompt response!

Very knowledgeable and pleasant guides. Made the days interest and showed a lot of care. Great ambassadors of the company.

Dear Folks, The tour was terrific and all I antiipated it would be - experiencing Israel in every way, shape and form everywhere we went! However, at my age the amount of walking was beyond my comfort zone after a several days. I was worn out after 4 days, and totally exhausted after the 6th day, after I'd rested my sore toe in the hotel the previous day! I'm in good shape for my age, however that much walking on unlevel terraine was w-a-y beyond my comfort zone and I'll sign up for that level of intensity again. The tour guides were great and professional. If I were to do another tour, I'll visit half to one/third the number of places we went, relax more, and spend more time at each place. Your foils online that answered all my questions were superb, kind and helpful. That's all, may God bless you all richly!

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How to tour Israel on your own: A step-by-step guide (with itinerary and maps)

If you are looking to tour Israel on your own, then you are in the right place. Whether its just wanting to go alone or a group tour timeline doesn’t fit your schedule. Or you’re in Israel on a business trip. Touring on your own doesn’t have to be difficult.

In a previous post I talked about visiting Jerusalem on your own. Traveling the whole country is going to be a little different. Everything you want to see in Jerusalem is packed into a small area. Everything outside Jerusalem is not.

Below is a how-to guide to traveling Israel on your own. At the bottom is an itinerary with maps. Here are the topics we are going to cover.

Can you travel Israel on your own?

When is the best time to go to israel, getting to israel..

• Getting around Israel.

Hotels in Israel

Hostels in israel, air bnb in israel, are tour guides available in israel, how much do private tours cost, how much do biblical sites in israel cost, is israel cheap to visit, can you swim in the dead sea, what should i buy in israel, what should i pack for a trip to israel, 2-week holy site itinerary..

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Absolutely. People travel to Israel all the time on their own. But a lot of those people aren’t doing an intentional tour of biblical sites. If you want to do your own Holy Land tour through Israel, you can more than easily accomplish it though.

Jerusalem, can be done in 2 or 3 days. The rest of the country can take anywhere from 7 to 12 days. Tour groups normally split the country into areas. Eleven to be specific: 1) the coast; 2) Nazareth; 3) Galilee; 4) Golan; 5) Samaria; 6) Jerusalem; 7) the Shephelah; 8) Bethlehem; 9) Jericho; 10) the Dead Sea; and if you want the full tour 11) the Negev.

On a typical Holy Land tour of Israel, you would get on a bus and let the tour leader and staff plan everything out. Park passes, transportation, lodging, and even a few meals will be part of the trip cost. The group leader and/or tour guide will provide the itinerary and what-to-know about each site.

Because the industry of Holy Land tourism is such a big thing in Israel, hotels and transportation is rather abundant. There are a plethora of hotels, kibbutz (travel lodges), hostels, and Air BnB offerings. Which means that you have plenty of options. The down side is that, depending on the season, you may be competing with group reservations.

Although a rental car is going to be the most convenient for this kind of tour, there are other options. Israel has public transportation and there is even a biking path if that’s your thing.

You could even do a mixture of it all.

The best time to visit Israel is in April/May and October/November. There are a couple variables that go into this. For a full discussion on timing, check out my post on the topic right here .

Airfare fluctuates during the year due to global travel seasons. The highest airfare tends to be in the summer months, (June, July, and August) and December. This makes sense because the summer is typically when people travel due to the US school calendar.

December has started to become a bigger travel month over the years because of Christmas.

The weather is also a factor. The summer have zero precipitation. And the average temperature countrywide is 84 deg F with highs surging into the 90s and 100s F.

The winter months have high precipitation. With lows being in the 40s and 50s F. This makes the spring and late fall optimal for the weather.

Crowds are another problem. Unfortunately, there is no data on crowds, but there is data on tourist arrivals. Israel’s peak arrival month is October. This is due to the Jewish Holiday Yom Kippur. The spring is the next high. The summer months are a lull between spring and October. January is the slowest month.

One thing to note here. Travel is highest in October because of Yom Kippur. But this doesn’t mean tourist sites are going to be packed. And low travel in the summer doesn’t mean that sites won’t be packed.

Because of the nature of Israel, Jewish families are spread across Israel, Europe, and the United States. So, there is a lot of travel to and from Israel to visit family. And not to tour. Arrival numbers do not differentiate this.

At the end of the day, you can’t go wrong visiting in the spring or fall.

As noted above, airfare fluctuates. Prices are highest in June at the beginning of the summer tourist season. Prices are lowest from October through March .  Average Airfare in 2020 before COVID was between $650 in the low months and $1,300 in the high months. With spikes up around $3,400.

International air travel has 1 major port of entry, Ben Gurion airport in Tel Aviv. Tel Aviv sits on the Mediterranean Coast and is pretty central in terms of not being too far north or south. It’s roughly an hour or so drive from Jerusalem.

There are a couple other “international” airports around the country. But they are small, mostly used for regional international traffic and don’t support the major airlines.

Your best bet is to fly though Tel Aviv. Its central, and all your follow-on transportation services are well established there. Like rental cars, airport shuttles, buses, city transportation, and more.

Can you enter Israel by boat? Yes, the main passenger port is Haifa. In the south on the Red Sea is the Port of Eilat. Both offer 24/7 customs services. Along the western Mediterranean Coast there are several marina’s which offer customs services on call.

Are there any border crossings on land? Yes, there are crossing points with Jordan and Egypt. In Eilat , use the Rabin crossing point to go to and from Jordan. And the Taba crossing point for Egypt. On the eastern border with Jordan, the Sheikh Hussein crossing point is the primary one for foreigners and Israeli citizens. The Allenby Bridge is primarily for the Palestinian population going to and from Jordan, but foreigners can use it too.

For an exhaustive list of border crossings and customs checkpoints, check out what the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs has to say right here .

Getting around Israel .

If you follow the itinerary below then the most convenient option is to rent a car. Most of the major rental companies are in Israel. Avis . Budget . Hertz . But there are also some competitive options native to Israel and the region. The problem with renting is the usual suspects: cost, gas, and parking. Check your favorite travel booking site for prices as they fluctuate like any other location.

The average cost of fuel in Israel over the last 2 years has fluctuated between $6 and $6.81 per gallon. In New Israeli Shekels (NIS) per liter that comes out to 5.38NIS and 6.05NIS per liter.

Something to note about fuel grades. In most countries outside the US, the fuel grade is higher, usually in the 90s (93, 95, or 97). Whereas, in the US its in the 80s (87, 89, 93). This means the fuel has been refined more and therefore more expensive.

The next option is public transportation. All the major cities have some sort of public bus or tram system. There are a few options for traveling between cities on public transportation though. Egged buses facilitate travel throughout the country and Dan Buses travel in and around the Tel Aviv area.

Bus fares vary based on the city and distance. For example, an Egged bus from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem is around $5. A bus from Tel Aviv to Nazareth is around $20.

Although taxis are an option here, you’re going to spend a lot of money.

Uber is present, but only cabs are allowed to provide the service. Ridesharing in general is very limited. Scooter-sharing services, Bird (US), Lime (US), and Wind (German) are available in both Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.

Other options include biking and hiking, which will not be covered here.

The big thing to keep in mind is that many of the churches that were built to commemorate something in the Bible are in towns. So, public transportation and walking is doable. But archaeological and historical sites, such as Dan and Caesarea Philippi, are often well outside the public transportation routes.

To really see the Holy Land on your own, a rental car is your best option.

Lodging in Israel

When it comes to lodging, there are several options. Hotels, hostels, kibbutz (travel lodges), and Air BnB to name the major ones. The driving factor here will be whether you prefer ‘crawling’ or ‘basing.’ What I mean by ‘crawling’ is that you stay at a different place each night while you go. And ‘basing’ means you get a room in an area to stay for several days and go out from there each day.

The way I’ve set up the itinerary below, both crawling and basing are utilized.

Because of the nature of Israel’s tourist industry, many hotels, hostels, and lodges provide meals. And some of those layouts are extensive. But not all locations do this, so make sure to verify when you book your stay.

Hotels in Israel aren’t all that different than the United States when it comes to cost. In general, they run from about $100 all the way up to $1,000 per night for a room. Prices fluctuate with the seasons. But you can expect places charging around $100 for the 2- or 3-star level. And the upper $100 and $200 range for the 4- and 5-star level.

Luxury hotels, like the King David Hotel and the David Citadel Hotel in Jerusalem are upwards to $1,000 per night. They come with all the bells and whistles.

When you travel with a tour group, lodging costs are included in your group travel. That’s the benefit of doing a group tour. Another benefit is that most group tours will choose decent hotels. You won’t be staying in low-end places unless there is no other choice. Usually a poor hotel choice is a result of traveling in a saturated tourist season.

What is a kibbutz? Technically a kibbutz is a collectivist commune that shares the burden of tending crops. Kibbutz literally means ‘gather.’ They started in the early 20th century in Galilee.

There are lodging locations around Israel that call themselves kibbutz, but really they are kind of like a resort. They have large dining rooms and offer buffets as part of the stay. They may or may not be associated with an actual kibbutz. If they are it’s part of their economy. The quality ranges.

Hostels are another option. They charge by person. What you can expect with a hostel is a bed, a social atmosphere, and meals.

If you’ve never stayed in a hostel before, they are basically bunk houses. Rooms can have anywhere from 4 to 10 beds, or more. Community lounges allow you to relax or socialize. Bathrooms are common spaces as well.

The price range for a bed at a hostel is between $20 and $80. With the higher end offering more amenities or possibly a private room. No private bathroom though.  

Hostels are generally geared towards young solo travelers who want to meet new people. However, all ages are welcome, and so are groups.

Amenities can vary widely as well. For example, Capsuleinn in Jerusalem has enclosed bunks with lights, electrical outlets, TV screens, and air vents. Other hostels are merely bunk rooms.

Some hostels have kitchens so you can cook your own food. And some offer nightlife and social activities.

To book, check prices, and find availability of hostels check out these websites or go to booking.com.

hostelworld.com

hihostels.com

hostels-israel.com

Air BnB is the third option. If you aren’t familiar with the latest craze in lodging, Air BnB is an online hospitality marketplace. For the most part, listings are often for full houses, apartments, or condos. But sometimes people will list rooms or granny flats.

All listings are facilitated by Air BnB but listed by the property owner.

For owners listing their properties, Air BnB is essentially a small business. As a result, customer service and amenities vary greatly!

Air BnB is basically like having your own apartment in the city for a couple of days. And you won’t get bothered by maid service.

Although, Air BnB is huge in the US, Israel has a rather large inventory of listings.

For the most part, scams on Air BnB hit the property owners, but there are some issues to be aware of.

1. Never pay for an Air BnB stay in cash or off the website. [ Article ]

2. Be cautious if your host wants to transfer you to another listing. [ Article ]

Yes, there are tour companies in Israel that offer day trips as well as multi-day trips. The most well-known are Abraham Tours and Sandemans New Europe Tours .

Abraham Tours has hubs in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Nazareth, and Eilat. The company is run by the Abraham Hostel company. Most of their tours leave from their hostels. This is a good thing; you won’t be riding around town picking people up at other hotels. You meet up, start the tour and finish.

Single day trips with Abraham Tours range from around $40 to $100. That is mostly dependent on the distance to the destination.

Sandemans offers a free tour of Jerusalem that last about 2 hours. It’s advertised as free because its tip based. It’s used to train new guides and give them experience. Sandemans offers a few other day-tours in Jerusalem and also in Tel Aviv. Average cost is around $25. They are walking tours, which means they leave from a specific starting point. So, no time wasted picking up other tourists.

When looking for a tour company, watch out for tours that pick you up at your hotel. There is nothing nefarious about it, but time is wasted. Sometimes upwards to 2 hours each way. These companies tend to charge a little more as well for the door to door service.

The other issue that you may encounter with any of these companies is frequent shopping stops. Some tourists like to shop their way through a destination. Also, tour guides sometimes get kickbacks for stopping.

With the day tours mentioned above, shopping is going to be rather limited.

One last thing to note, these are not theologically based tours. You will get religious history, but you aren’t going to get Christian theology.

Maybe the day tour isn’t your thing. Or, you are fine setting up your lodging, but you want to combine your touring and your transportation. A private tour is a good option.

Private, or luxury, tour guides in Israel cost around $200-$300 a day. But this isn’t necessarily per person. And it isn’t expensive by any means. With more people in the group, the per-person cost goes down.

If your timing doesn’t fit with a group tour from your church or community, this might be the route for you.

The plus side with this option is that you can plan out your trip with the tour company.

Private tours vary in terms of theology. If you go with a church group from home, you’re going to get lead by a seminary trained leader. With a private tour, most likely you are going to get a professionally trained tour guide. They may or may not be adequately prepared with theological learning points.

I believe that any Holy Land tour should also be theologically based in order for a traveler to get the most out of their time. However, if you have a small window of opportunity, then a private tour might be the answer.

Both Abraham and Sandemans offer private tours. Shin Luxury Tours is another option. They only do private tours and are staffed with more experienced guides.

An unlimited Park Pass from the Israeli Nature and Parks Authority is about $45. You can access around 70 sites with it. All of the archaeological sites will be on the pass. Churches, lookouts and most everything in Jerusalem are not. But they’re free anyway.

The pass is good for 2 weeks starting on the day of its initial use.  

In Jerusalem, the pass is only good for the City of David Archaeological site.

Other locations in Jerusalem that require an entrance fee are:

The Western Wall Tunnel Tour – Adults $11. Seniors, disabled, and children are $6.  

The Church of the Redeemer Tower – Everyone $5.

The Israel Museum – Adults $16. Students and Seniors $12. Other discounts $8.

The Yad Vashem Holocaust Museum – Entrance to the museum and grounds is free. A guided tour for 2 people will run you around $150. An audio tour is $18 a headset.  

The Western Wall, Temple Mount, Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Old City Wall walk, and other sites in Jerusalem are free of charge.

The cost of travel in Israel is on par with the cost of travel in the United States. This is true when it comes to hotels, food and souvenirs. The only exception is gas, as noted above.

Travel costs stack up due to eating out, hotels, transportation, and site-seeing. However, visiting Israel is not like visiting Disneyland. Overall, visiting Israel can be done on any budget.

If a hotel offers food with your stay, then you’ve already saved money.

In my post about the cost of a Holy Land tour , I stated that a standard tour averages at around $300 per day per traveler. This is a great number to work with. If you are traveling on your own with a spouse or friend you can easily bring this number down with your transportation and lodging choices.

Yes, you most certainly can swim in the Dead Sea. There are 7 beaches where you can wade into the water. Or you can just plunge in.

The salt content of the Dead Sea is 9 times higher than the ocean. This means 2 things.

1. You will float high. It will actually be difficult to go underwater. The reason for this is that the salt content makes the density higher. If you’re a nerd like me that means the water has more weight (technically it’s mass but weight is more understandable), per volume than ocean water. When you get in any liquid, the weight of the volume displaced is equal to your weight. So, when you get in the Dead Sea less volume needs to be displaced.

2. The higher salt content will start to sting after about 6 or 7 minutes. So, don’t stay in too long. And don’t open your eyes underwater. Get in, do your mud thing, get out, and take a shower. Take a break and get back in if you want.  

For a great discussion on souvenirs to buy in Israel check out my post on the topic right here .

Here is the list of things I cover in that post.

• Ahava mineral lotion from the Dead Sea.
• Widow’s Mite
• Olive wood carvings
• Historical photographs – Elia Photo Service
• Charm jewelry from Magdala
• A Kippah from the Western Wall (FREE)
• Your pictures (FREE)

For a discussion on buying antiquities, check out my post on the topic right here .

And guidance for bringing back sand is here . Spoiler alert, I don’t recommend it.

For a discussion on how to prepare for your Holy Land tour, check out my post on the topic here .

In it, I cover the following topics:

• The paperwork
• Preparing for your flight.
• What to pack.
• Non-clothing gear.
• Determining your gadget requirements.
• Stay connected.
• A picture plan.
• Make a commitment to have fun.
• Jewish Holidays.
• A money plan.
• A souvenir plan.

Also, check these other posts to get clothing recommendations.

What to wear.

Types of shoes that work best.

Best styles of hats to protect your head.

And, a discussion on pockets .  This post is geared towards security and preventing pickpockets from taking advantage of you.

If you want to use your own phone, or rent one, check out this post on the topic right here .

And lastly, for information on power needs, such as adapters and converters check out this post .

There are 11 areas that we’ll hit. This list is predicated on the assumption that you will be landing in Tel Aviv.

1. Coast (1 night)– After a night or two in Tel Aviv, we’ll head south to Ashkelon (30-40 miles). Then head back north, stopping in Caesarea (60 miles) and then Haifa-Acre area (20 miles). Stay the night.

2. Jezreel Valley (Nazareth) (1 night)– We’ll get up early and head to the Jezreel Valley (20 miles). It’s up to you to choose where to go first. If you want to hit Megiddo , Nain and Mount Tabor you can (optional). Or you can go directly to Nazareth and start. But don’t forget the Wedding Church in Cana and the ruins of Sepphoris in Zippori (both within 5 miles of Nazareth). Sepphoris is where scholars believed Joseph took Jesus to teach him the craft of carpentry. Stay the night in Nazareth or head to Tiberias.

3. Galilee (3 nights)– Head to The Sea of Galilee (15 miles). We’re going to stay here for a few days. There are a ton of sites to visit, such as Capernaum , Magdala , and the Mount of Beatitudes . Don’t forget to get a boat ride on the sea. The Galilee and Golan areas are best done over 3 days, but you can take whatever time you want. Stay a few nights in Tiberias .

4. Golan (part of Galilee stay) (90-100 mile day) – Take a day trip away from Galilee to go north. At first glance it might appear to be boring. But the archaeological sites at Dan and Chorazim are large and provide a window into life in the Old Testament. At Dan, parts of the alter were found and scholars created a mockup 1:1 scale altar. It’s huge. Head back to Tiberias for the night.

5. Samaria (1 Day)– on your way to Jerusalem you will travel through the West Bank and Samaria (100 mile day). Notable sites include Jacob’s Well , Mount Gerazim (this has a fascinating history), and Shiloh (the religious capital of the ancient Israelites). There Sebaste and Nablus are noted for reference, I recommend driving through due to safety concerns.

6. Jerusalem (4-5 nights) – For an exhaustive itinerary of Jerusalem check out my post on how to tour Jerusalem on your own . The ancient city can be done in as many days as you like, I suggest 3 days. We’ll stay here for a bit longer than that though, since we have some other sites to see in the area.

8. Shephelah (1 Day) (40-50 mile day)– The Shephelah is the region between the coastal plain on the Mediterranean coast and the Judean hills. Here you will find the archaeological sites at Gezer , Beth Shemesh , and Lachish . On your drive you can make a stop to overlook the Valley of Elah , where David defeated Goliath. Head back to Jerusalem.

9. Bethlehem (1 Day) (20-30 mile day) – In Palestinian controlled territory, Bethlehem is full of interesting things. The Church of the Nativity is the traditional site of the birth of Christ. Its gaudy accoutrement is shocking. The Shepherds Field Chapel is more soothing and less stressful. Hit the Fields of Boaz on the way out of town and head south to the Herodium . This is a fortress Herod had built for him inside of a hill. Head back to Jerusalem.

7. Jericho (1 Day) (40-50 mile day)– Take an excursion out to Jericho for the day. On the way stop at the Inn of the Good Samaritan , Dani Lookout (great view of the Judean Wilderness), The Monastery of St. George and the archaeological site at Jericho . Head back to Jerusalem.

10. Dead Sea (1 Day) (90-100 mile day) – Leave Jerusalem behind and head east to the Dead Sea. First stop is the Baptism site on the Jordan River . Then head down to Qumran . There are 7 beaches on the Dead Sea. Kalia Beach , Neve Midbar Beach , and Biankini Siesta Beach are the farthest north. Mineral Beach is on the way to Ein Gedi where you’ll find a trail hike and the Ein Gedi Beach . Ein Gedi is where David hid out from Saul. Continue south and stop at Masada . Further to the south are the Ein Bokek Beach , the Segregated Beach and the Zohar Beach .  Cut to the west and arrive in Arad where you’ll stay the night.

11. The Negev (Southern Desert) (1 Day) (160-180 mile day) – The Negev is the most overlooked part of Israel. It’s hot and seemingly devoid of sites. But the archaeological site at Arad gives us insight into how the Nabateans lived. The Nabateans are known for Petra in Jordan. Head west to Be’ersheva and then south to Avdat and Makhtesh Ramon . This is pretty far south, but is a must-see. It’s called the Super Bowl and it’s comparable to the Grand Canyon. It’s 25 miles long and 5 miles wide. Head to Tel Aviv

This turns out to be about a 14 to 15-day trek. You can shorten or lengthen it however you see fit. In the coming weeks I’ll be posting info on each site so you can find out more information. Or if you are traveling on your own you can tailor your journey.

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Israel Trips for Seniors

Thinking about making a trip to Israel , if you’re a senior traveller, is always an exciting prospect but it can be a bit daunting. This is especially true if you haven’t visited the Holy Land before - and it’s understandable that you’ll have a fair few questions before you make the decision to book a tour of Israel for seniors. 

 Tourist floating in the Dead Sea. Photo credit: © Shutterstock

The good news is that it’s a fantastic country to visit if you’re a little older than the average visitor - it has wonderful, clement weather for many months of the year, a health care system that’s the envy of the world and well-developed infrastructure, including excellent, reliable and cheap public transport.  Even better, English is widely spoken throughout the country (and quite a bit of French and Russian too!) which is very reassuring for those who worry about language barriers.  All signs on the road are written in Hebrew, Arabic and English and almost every street vendor, restaurant waitress or taxi driver will be able to chat to you - not to mention younger people (who’ve often travelled abroad after their compulsory military service, and speak English fluently). All this aside, as a travel company that’s been in business since the 1990s, we understand that people can sometimes be a little nervous about travelling to this part of the world - and not just regarding the political situation but also because it’s the ‘Middle East’. Here, we’re going to look at some of the questions older travellers sometimes want answers to before they decide to take the plunge and head in our direction. We’ve also thrown in a few helpful tips and general information that we hope will help in your decision-making. Here we go:

Bahai Gardens, Haifa. Photo credit: © Shutterstock

What Should I Pack For My Trip to Israel?

1. Start off with an electric adaptor and voltage converter. Israel runs on 230 volts at 50 hertz, and the US runs on 120v. You can easily pick these up online, in a local hardware store in your own country or, of course, when you arrive in Israel (they are widely available in malls, pharmacies and local convenience stores). If you’re coming from Europe, it might be that you can use the sockets available - note, however, that the power prongs in Israel are rather unique - sometimes they will fit, and sometimes not. Ask your guide or a hotel staff member and, if in doubt, pick up an adaptor for a few shekels. 2. Comfortable shoes - there will be plenty of walking in places like Jerusalem’s Old City , as well as exploring ancient sites like Masada , the Galilee and Caesarea , so bring footwear you can count on. Don’t try breaking in a new pair on holiday either - you’ll end up with blisters. We suggest comfortable trainers/walking shoes or sturdy sandals, as well as some flip flops for the beach/a trip to the Dead Sea . 3. Appropriate clothing - in hot months (of which Israel has many) you really need a wide-brimmed hat and cotton or linen shirts, dresses and shorts. In Jerusalem and the Golan Heights , even in the summer, it can be breezy at night so bring a light sweater. You also need to remember that, when visiting holy sites in Israel (churches, mosques, synagogues) you need to dress modestly - women will need to cover their shoulders and should pack a scarf to use as a head covering. 

A monk in Jerusalem.  Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin

The person holding a water bottle. Photo by Bluewater Sweden   on Unsplash

Should I change money before I arrive in Israel?

It’s not essential but often worthwhile to have a small amount of shekels on you when you touch down and changing money at Ben Gurion Airport is very costly!

Can I pay for purchases in Israel in dollars?

Israel’s national currency is the shekel and you’ll be paying for most things with it, but in some places (e.g. Jerusalem’s Old City bazaar and some restaurants and hotels) dollars can be used.  The greenback is also welcome if you want to tip!

Is it easy to use credit cards in Israel?

There are ATMs everywhere in Israel if you want to withdraw cash, and the other good news is that almost everywhere now you can pay with a credit card. You’ll still need a bit of cash though, for local markets and buying ice cream from the guy on the beach!  Israel is high-tech so it’s also becoming easier to use apps like ‘Apple Pay.’

Israel’s History and Culture

Israel has a rich cultural, religious and historical tradition that stretches back thousands of years.  Jerusalem is sacred to 3 major world religions and when you throw the politics of the region into the mix, you have a topic that you can talk about for days.  Israel welcomes Christian pilgrims from across the globe, is home to a sizeable Muslim community and is also an epicentre of Jewish culture. Many of which you’ll encounter on a trip to Israel . Folklore, literature, art, music, not to mention the revival of the Hebrew language and the fact that the country absorbed millions of immigrants from across the world since 1948 all make Israel very special. 

Jerusalem, the city of 3 religions. Photo credit: © Shutterstock

The Great Melting Pot

Tower of David Museum, Jerusalem. Photo credit: © Shutterstock

Holidays in Israel. Can I travel on Shabbat and religious holidays?

Shabbat - the Jewish day of rest - starts on Friday evening and runs for 25 hours - and most stores are closed during this time. Jerusalem comes to a standstill on Shabbat although in Tel Aviv many cafes and restaurants are open. There is no public transport in Israel on Shabbat - you can, however, take taxis. Shabbat is taken seriously in Israel - religious people do not use electricity or work in any fashion and even secular people use it as a time to relax, catch up with friends and family or just spend some quality time with themselves. In a world where we’re so used to 24/7 conveniences, this can be strange at first - but, trust us, you’ll enjoy it after you’ve had a taste of it. Religious Jewish holidays in Israel are also strictly observed - especially Yom Kippur (the Day of Atonement) when the country grinds to a halt (even Ben Gurion airport is closed).  No one drives (the highways are deserted) and it is impossible to buy even a cup of coffee. Pick up a book in advance and enjoy some downtime!

Tipping. Should I tip and how much?

Tipping is not mandatory in Israel but definitely expected.  Of course, it’s up to you but in general, give restaurant staff a 10-15% tip and if you’re travelling as part of a tour package, your guide will be thrilled with you tipping them.  On day trips, you can tip according to how satisfied you are with the individual.

Ruins of Nimrod Castle, Golan Heights. Photo credit: © Shutterstock

Public Transport. Is it safe to use buses and trains?

Buses and trains are cheap, comfortable and efficient and whether you’re travelling independently, or taking a group tour in Israel , don’t be afraid to use them. Pick up a green Rav Kav card (widely available), charge it up with prepaid credit - especially if you have  48 hours free in Tel Aviv or a couple of days in Jerusalem , the buses or light rail are a great way to get around.

Please note, that you’ll probably see soldiers with guns in the street when you’re travelling. Don’t be afraid - everyone does military service in Israel and some entrances to train stations (and other public places) have guards and soldiers there for your security.

Tips for the Road. Any tips or hacks to make my trip go more smoothly?

1. Respect the local culture - remember that you are in the Middle East. Excessive drinking is frowned upon, whilst smoking is still widespread! In conservative Jerusalem, modest dress is expected whereas in Tel Aviv, anything goes. Learn a few Hebrew phrases beforehand - they aren’t obligatory but every local (and your guides) will love you for it.  2. Group travel - remember that pick-ups from other hotels (on day trips especially) might take 15-30 minutes. Nevertheless, we really recommend taking a tour package in Israel if you’re a senior - it’s more comfortable and convenient and you’ll be going at a reasonable group pace!  It’s also safer - since you’ll have a group leader who knows the country well - and this gives you added peace of mind.

Rosh Hanikra Cliffs. Photo credit: © Shutterstock

Shakshuka (Eggs Poached in Tomato Sauce). Photo by Delaney Van on Unsplash

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218 israel trips. tours from 83 tour companies. 497 reviews. 4.8/5 avg rating..

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Jordan Discovery

Amman, Aqaba, Dead Sea, Jerash, Jerusalem, Madaba, Petra, Wadi Rum

• A journey through the best of Jordan, from Roman ruins to the Red Sea
• Spend two full days exploring the tombs and temples of The Rose Red City of Petra
• Experience Bedouin living at a secluded traditional camp on the sands of Wadi Rum

Cultural, Hiking & Walking

What travelers are saying

"Youseff our guide was excellent from start to finish and I felt safe on the roads with our driver. You see so much of the real Morocco BUT be prepared for long days on the mini bus, 2 of which were 12 hrs albeit you have plenty stops for drinks, food and toilet. The trip is full on up early every day, arriving at hotels in the early evening to get a quick change and out again . We had a group of 11, very mixed age and from 4 different countries. Hotels were clean and what one would expect from a trip in this price range, all were clean. Marrakesh, Fez hotel and desert camp did not serve alcohol but it could be found in hotel nearby in Fez. Marrakesh main square is amazing so full of life and nice places to eat and drink if you are there longer"

Health Safety +

Walking Jordan's Spice Trails

Amman, Dead Sea, Jerash, Jerusalem, Little Petra, Madaba, Petra, Wadi Rum

• A week long adventure packed with awe inspiring walks and Jordan's unmissable highlights
• Walk into Petra from the back door and hike through its magnificient tombs and temples
• Trek across the dunes of Wadi Rum and stay overnight at a traditional Bedouin camp

Trekking & Expeditions

Jordan: Women's Expedition

Amman, Dead Sea, Hadrian's Wall, Jerash, Jerusalem, Madaba, Petra, Wadi Rum

• Uncover the lesser-known side of Jordan as you travel on a woman-only expedition guided by a local female leader. Visit Women-led cooperatives, support local female businesses and eat, sip and chat along the way.
• Take a cooking class with a local chef who started her own business to teach people about Jordanian culture through food. Hear her story and taste authentic family recipes.
• Float in the salty waters of the Dead Sea – once believed to have mystical healing powers and so popular that Cleopatra herself would travel from Egypt to soak and exfoliate in the mineral-rich mud.
• Experience the majesty and mystery of ancient Petra (one of the Seven Wonders of the World) during a guided tour. The first glimpse of the Treasury from the narrow path of the Siq is something you’ll never forget.
• Drive through the remarkable desert landscapes of Wadi Rum, then take a look behind closed doors as local Bedouin women join you to share their knowledge and craft of henna application.

Hiking & Walking, Women Only

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

All Israel , expedition cruises, self guided adventures and vacation packages. Find the best guided and expert planned vacation and holiday packages. Read more about Israel

Jordan and Israel Adventure

Amman, Aqaba, Bethlehem, Dead Sea, Galilee, Haifa, Jaffa, Jerash, Jericho, Jerusalem, Madaba, Masada, Nazareth, Petra, Sea of Galilee, Tel Aviv, Wadi Rum

• Enjoy lunch with a druze family
• Swim in the dead sea
• Spend the night in a bedouin camp
• Enjoy a 4x4 excursion
• Visit the historic madaba mosaics

Cultural, High Adventure, Hiking & Walking, Transformative, Holy Land

"The tour had an excellent itinerary and activities, giving a broad overview of Peru - we loved it. Accommodations (with one exception) were great, and all had an included breakfast buffet. The tour's included activities (e.g. cooking class, pisco tour and tasting, potato park, boat tour of Isla Ballestas) were terrific. Appreciated the two included flights which saved a lot of driving time. Logistics were handled, and everything was smooth and easy (thanks to our CEO, Mary Chu!)."

Egypt & Israel in 12 days - The Enigma of the Pyramids & The Holy Land - LUXURY

Abu Simbel, Aswan, Cairo, Dead Sea, Jaffa, Jerusalem, Luxor, Tel Aviv, Valley of the Kings

50 plus, Cultural, Local Immersion & Homestays, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife

"The trip was well laid out. Tour guides were friendly and knowledgeable. The only complaint is some of our travel documents that were sent out were not in English. If your sending documents out correspondence should be in both the native language and the language of the people the correspondence to. Other than that a great first time experience."

Rome to Southern Italy

Alberobello , Amalfi Coast, Bari, Forum, Jerusalem, Lecce, Matera, Naples, Pompeii, Positano, Puglia, Rome, Sorrento, Vatican City

• Wander around Rome's famous landmarks including the Colosseum, Vatican City, Sistine Chapel, St Peter's Basilica and much more. This is a city that bucket lists were made for
• Explore the vast, frozen in time ruins of ancient Pompeii, which emerged from the ashes after thousands of years, and take a peak inside the steaming crater of Mt Vesuvius, the volcano that destroyed it
• Hike among the olive groves on the Path of the Gods along the spectacular Amalfi Coast
• Stay in a bit of local history and feel like a true Alberobello resident with a night in Alberobello’s unique trulli
• Explore the otherworldly Sassi of Matera – stone houses formed from natural grottoes and tufo cliffs overlooking a dramatic gorge

Cultural, High Adventure, Local Immersion & Homestays, Holy Land

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Jordan & Israel in 12 days - Hashemite Kingdom & Holy Land Highlights - Superior

Amman, Dead Sea, Jaffa, Jerusalem, Little Petra, Petra, Tel Aviv, Wadi Rum

• Ajloun Castle

Family Jordan, Petra and Desert Adventure

Amman, Aqaba, Dead Sea, Jerash, Jerusalem, Little Petra, Madaba, Petra, Wadi Rum

• An adventure packed family holiday through the highlights of Jordan with two full days in Petra
• Journey across the desert by 4WD or camelback and camp under the stars
• Float in the in the Dead Sea and cool off by the Red Sea coast

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Israel Tour Selection Trips

• Periodic violence has plagued Israel from its birth, but it’s usually safe to visit there; check the latest U.S. State Department warnings as well as news reports.
• Approach your visit to Israel with an open mind; what you find there may surprise you. 
• Because Israel is such a small country, you can see much of it in a week’s tour.
• If you’re visiting Israel primarily for religious reasons, look for special interest tours that bring various religious groups to visit sites of special interest. 
• The border between Israel and Jordan is peaceful; many Israel tours offer optional add-ons for visits to Jordan’s ancient rock city of Petra, which is not far from the Israeli city of Eilat. 
• If you plan to travel elsewhere in the Middle East besides Israel, make a mental note to ask the Israeli immigration authorities to stamp your passport on a separate piece of paper, and don’t forget. 
• The Israeli desert can be intensely hot in daytime but cool off at night; pack accordingly.

Additional details

Types of Israel Guided Tours

Tours of the Holy Land Holy Land Tours combine the historical, archaeological, religious and cultural elements of the region. Most tours that emphasize the Holy Land concentrate on its religious and historical sites. And many of Israel’s attractions and cities are significant religious sites for more than one religion. Nazareth, Calvary, Bethlehem, Jerusalem and its Old City are the key places that reside within Israel.

Significant points of interest within Israel includes the Western Wall, Bethlehem, Mount of Olives, Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Mount Zion, Dolorosa, Al-Aqsa Mosque, the Dome of the Rock, and Qumran Caves. Israel is one of the key regions that encompasses the Holy Land and captures its religious, cultural and historical significance.

Israel Group Guided Tours Group guided tours usually range from 12-18 people. Most tours to Israel include lodging, main meals, and transportation between sites. The type of tours range from two stars (Basic) to five stars (Luxury) which is mainly reflect lodging style. Most tours through Israel emphasize its cultural, religious, and historical significance.

Group guided tours to Israel include visits to Jerusalem, the Dead Sea, Tel Aviv and Galilee. When taking a tour to Israel, you should look at the different type of activities available on each tour. Some guided tours offer unique activities homestays, cultural immersions, and hiking.

Israel Private Guided Tours Private tours of Israel essentially have the same amenities as other tours, but the group consists of just your party. This allows a more personal experience with the country and its historic sites. It should also be noted that most private tours are more luxurious than just a regular group tour. This entails upscale hotels, private guides at each attraction, and personal transportation. Private tours are on average more expensive, but they are great for people who want a more personalized trip.

Israel Pilgrim Tours There are also multiple ways to experience Israel in a religious way, especially in a small group tour. Whether you are Jewish, Muslim, or Christian, there is a religion-focused guided tour aimed toward the significant sites important in your religion. For example, if you want to go on a Christian trip in Israel, you may focus on the places Jesus visited. There will also be time for prayer and reflection worked into the itinerary on pilgrimage tours.

Other Tours in Israel

For those looking for a more secular tour in Israel, or a balanced mix between holy sites and other activities , there are still plenty of options for you.

The Great Outdoors To begin with, Israel has dozens of great outdoor experiences. Many tours of Israel offers plenty of great hiking opportunities, for example. If you love desert landscapes, you will have your pick on a tour of Israel. There are multiple ways to hike around the Sea of Galilee, Negev, Makhtesh Ramon, and Mount Carmel National Park. If you still want to see these natural sights, and don’t want to walk, why not try riding a camel ? Or if things get a lot hot on the surface, try going caving . 

LGBTQ Scene Israel is a particularly LGBTQ-friendly country, especially in the Middle East, and often ranks as one of the best LGTBQ travel destinations . Tel Aviv, in particular, is known for its pride parades. The Israeli Army is LGTBQ friendly, and all of the main cities are very accepting.

Food Israel is renowned for its wide variety of drool-inducing cuisines, and the good news is that, no matter your dietary restrictions, there is going to be plenty you can eat. Falafel, shawarma , and hummus are some obvious things to taste, but don’t be afraid to try some lesser known foods. In Israel’s markets, trying “shopping the shuks” for some tasty street food, and make sure to sample the country’s amazing fresh produce and vegetables. Of course, the best way to make sure you don’t miss any delicious staples is to embark on a culinary tour of Israel .

Solo Tours in Israel Israel is a popular destination to travel solo, especially on a group tour that is single traveler friendly. One reason it’s such a popular spot is because there are many ways to get group tours at a budget or value rate , this is because of the variety of housing. From hostels to homestays, there are many ways to travel Israel cheaply and also connect with local people and their cultures.

Always Find the Best

On Travelstride you can find 218 trips to Israel and more than 20,000 trips worldwide ranging from budget to luxury and private guided to group tours and everything in between. Only on Stride can you find and compare expert-planned trips from 1,000+ tour operators, cruise lines and local experts. Read traveler and professional reviews so you can confidently find your perfect trip.

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45 replies to this topic

Wow, Trish, you really dodged a bullet on this one!

God bless you!

I have had nothing but kindness and courtesy in planning a trip with Trish. She calls on the phone personally and takes all the time you need to answer questions and explain things. I can’t say enough good things about her.

We also had to postpone our trip and get a refund, and we got it promptly and with no hassle.

<<< This is not what you told me. >>>

Carmella, you are right. I’m glad for Easy Tours sake that this person didn’t end up touring with them.

Paying through PayPal is not only convenient, you as the client incur no fees, weather conversion fees or service fees. You do not need a PayPal account to pay. It is all done online and is very convenient. It is unclear what the difference is to you whether they accept credit cards directly or credit cards via Paypal which accepts all major credit cards. The person receiving the money in PayPal pays all the fees, so it is unclear what the issue was on that end.

Sorry to hear that the customer service was unacceptable. Perhaps a more customized, private tour, would have been a better option in this case. Heather is correct that people with movement disabilities cannot visit the Church of the Nativity. Even entering the courtyard requires going over a step.

Many people do not feel comfortable using PayPal when they do feel okay with using their credit card. You have the protection of the credit card company when you pay directly with your card. When you use your card to pay via PayPal you do not have the same protections - you have to go through PayPal first if you have a problem and that is cumbersome to say the least -- and in order to use your card with PayPal you do need a PayPal account.

I can understand the posters reticence to use PayPal and do not understand why a reputable business that is charging these amounts of money would not accept credit cards directly.

I advised Trish that I do not like Pay Pal and she gave me a link to pay with my credit card.

I have never been to Israel therefore many questions on my part.

Trish answered all questions very politely - a very nice person.

Covid 19 interfered with my Israel 2020 Travel plans. Trish moved me to my choice of a

2021 Tour zero problems.

All my communications with Trish have been polite and informative.

We saw so many major religious sites on her Christian tour in 2019. Before arriving in IsrAel, Trish was extremely helpful and informative as to what to expect and how to pack. The whole time was one “WOW” experiebxe after another. We never felt rushed while visiting Israel and know we will be returning to Israel again.

Susan, thanks for posting. It’s always good to have first hand reports from people who have been on tours.

I have been looking up easy Israeli tours by Trish Duke.

Has any gone on this senior tour ??

Welcome to the Israeli forum Prior to your question, the last post on this thread was a year ago. Read the entire thread. There are some reviews. I suggest you try reaching out to those people via PM. -

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Nothing will eat you: What you should know before visiting Tasmania

• Tasmania is an island off the southern coast of Australia.
• The island is known for its pristine wilderness, rugged coastlines and captivating wildlife.
• American travelers will find themselves instantly at ease in Tasmania, but don't be fooled – the island's allure lies in its ability to surprise and inspire with breathtaking sights.

The U.S. is teeming with beautiful landscapes, but there's something to be said about experiencing the power of nature halfway across the world.

Embarking on a journey to Tasmania, Australia, is like stepping into a realm where the familiar meets the extraordinary. For first-time visitors looking to start ticking bucket list destinations, Tasmania offers a unique blend of comfort and adventure – with a welcoming g'day. Nestled off the southern coast of the mainland, Tasmania boasts pristine wilderness, rugged coastlines and captivating wildlife.

Move over Hawaii, The Azores Islands also bring vibrant beauty (with fewer crowds)

With English as the primary language and a culture of warmth and hospitality, American travelers will find themselves instantly at ease. But don't be fooled, the island's allure lies in its breathtaking sights.

From exploring ancient rainforests to indulging in culinary surprises, Tasmania promises an unforgettable escape. I visited the island for the first time in May, the start of Australia's winter, and my jaw was on the floor most of the time there. Here's what you need to know before planning your own trip to Tassie.

1. The flights are exactly what you'd expect

There are no direct flights from the U.S. to Tasmania. You'll have to connect through Sydney or Melbourne to Launceston or Hobart. I went from Washington, D.C., to San Francisco to Melbourne to Launceston. It was terrible, I'm not going to lie. Next time I go, I'll spend a day on the West Coast before taking the U.S.-Australia 14-hour flight.

My recommendation is to take a red-eye flight to Australia and use it to sleep and switch over time zones.

Flight availability from the U.S. to Melbourne and Sydney (to transfer to Tasmania) is plentiful, with several major airlines offering regular routes. Travelers can choose from direct flights departing from major U.S. cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, Houston, Dallas and even New York (with direct service to Auckland). Airlines such as United, American, Delta, Hawaiian, Qantas and Air New Zealand provide nonstop services.

(New direct service from Dallas to Brisbane via American Airlines is expected to launch in October, and from Los Angeles to Brisbane via Delta in December.)

How to visit Australia without flying: Holland America launches new Grand Voyage

2. Americans need a visa to enter the country

American travelers should be aware of the visa requirements before heading down under.

U.S. citizens need an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) or an eVisitor visa, which can be easily obtained online before departure.

The process is straightforward, typically requiring basic personal information and a valid passport. Once approved, the visa allows for multiple entries into Australia for up to 90 days at a time over a 12-month period. I downloaded the Australian ETA app ( iOS and Android ), filled out a quick application, and my visa was granted in less than an hour.

3. Don't fret about the time zone difference

There's a 14-hour time difference from the U.S. East Coast. It sounds complicated but just embrace it.

The unique advantage of Tasmania’s 14-hour time difference is that you can truly disconnect and savor your vacation. The time zones down under can offer the perfect balance of relaxation and connectivity. Travelers can immerse themselves in the serene landscapes and vibrant culture during the day while still having a few hours in the morning and evening to connect with loved ones back home. It’s the ideal scenario for those seeking to unwind without completely losing touch.

4. Connection with nature

Travelers can immerse themselves in Tasmania's breathtaking nature through a variety of experiences.

At Cradle Mountain in Lake St. Clair National Park, visitors can hike rugged trails and take in stunning alpine views. If you visit at night, you can enjoy a view of cute wildlife with McDermotts Coaches .

But it's OK if you don't enjoy hiking. For a unique adventure, truffle hunting with The Truffle Farm in Deloraine offers another way to explore the island's culinary practices. Wine enthusiasts can savor the flavors of Tasmania at the Clover Hill winery in Lebrina, known for its exquisite sparkling wines and picturesque vineyards.

Whether it's trekking through pristine landscapes, foraging for gourmet treats, or indulging in fine wines, Tasmania offers something for every nature lover.

5. Nothing is likely to kill you

We've all seen social media videos of Australians battling snakes or large spiders, but you can relax.

Fear of wildlife often looms large for travelers, but Tasmania is free of large predators, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. Here, you can explore lush forests and pristine coastlines without the fear of being eaten.

Tasmania’s unique ecosystem is home to creatures like Tasmanian devils (which are incredibly rare to spot – I also didn't), puggles, platypuses, pademelons, wombats and wallabies, ensuring a safe and enriching experience for all visitors.

There are three kinds of snakes in Tasmania and while two of them can be dangerous to humans, it is extremely rare to encounter them, according to Tourism Australia.

6. The food scene has something for everyone

You will not go hungry in Tasmania. Far from it.

Tasmania's food scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, reflecting the island's culinary influences. From fresh seafood caught in pristine waters to farm-to-table produce, there's something for every palate. Influences from British, Mediterranean, and Asian cuisines converge, creating a unique gastronomic experience. Visitors can savor everything from gourmet dining in Hobart’s top restaurants to artisanal cheese and local wine in countryside eateries.

The coffee scene deserves a special mention. The great people of Melbourne will claim they have the best coffee in the world, but Tasmania is right there with them.

Make a stop at Tatler Lane by Sweetbrew in Launceston for a perfect cup, delicious food and a great ambiance.

7. Easy access to a different side of the world

Once in Australia, travelers can take advantage of affordable flights to explore the continent and beyond.

Budget airlines offer frequent, low-cost flights to other Australian cities. This opens up opportunities for reasonably priced trips to exciting neighboring destinations such as Bali, Japan, Fiji or New Zealand. These nearby countries are just a few hours away by plane, so you can expand your adventure without breaking the bank.

Embrace the chance to explore more of the Asia-Pacific region with convenient and cost-effective travel options.

The reporter on this story received access to this event from Tourism Australia. USA TODAY maintains editorial control of content.  

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .

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China and the United Arab Emirates have emphasised a readiness to exchange experiences on defence and security, with a view to upgrading capacities of military personnel and security institutions in both countries, China's foreign ministry said on Sunday.

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A local official in Belgorod died when some ammunition detonated, while six people were injured in Ukrainian shelling of the southern Russian region, Belgorod's governor said on Sunday.

Egyptian casualty along Gaza border puts strain on the landmark Israel-Egypt peace accord

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It was another close call. When a clash between Egyptian and Israeli soldiers near Egypt’s border with the Gaza Strip left one Egyptian dead, it raised the specter — yet again — of a spark that would set off a conflagration across the Middle East.

Both countries moved swiftly to contain the fallout, a sign of the durability of their decades-long diplomatic ties. Egypt’s military spokesman talked about a “shooting incident” but did not mention Israel, while the Israeli military said “dialog was taking place with the Egyptian side.”

But Monday’s skirmish was the latest in a string of events underscoring the region’s volatility since Oct. 7, and the risk that the Israel-Hamas war will rattle long-standing peace agreements — nurtured by Washington for decades — between Israel and its neighbors.

Relations between Egypt and Israel have been strained for months, with Cairo intent on stopping any Israeli effort to drive Gaza residents onto Egyptian territory.

Tensions only worsened after Israel pushed into the south Gazan city of Rafah this month — where an estimated 1.4 million of Gaza’s residents had taken refuge — and seized the Palestinian side of the crossing and the Philadelphi Corridor, an almost 9-mile-long and 300-foot-wide path along the border between the Gaza Strip and Egypt.

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In response, Egypt shut down humanitarian deliveries via Rafah, insisting administration of the crossing return to Palestinian control and that Israel was violating decades-old security arrangements that limited the number of soldiers and equipment on either side of the border.

But Monday’s shooting, the first deadly clash between Egyptian and Israeli forces since the war began, illustrates the risks of spillover in the fighting as Israel presses its offensive into Rafah and operates in close proximity to Egyptian units, not to mention Egyptian civilians living close to the border.

“This will happen again,” said Samir Ragheb, an Egyptian analyst and chairman of the Cairo-based Arab Foundation for Development and Strategic Studies.

“Committees [are] investigating the incident and [there’s] dialogue between the two sides,” he said. “All that’s fine. But there’s no guarantee for what comes later. ... This is dealing with the symptom not the disease: which is that Israel is in Rafah and on the border where it shouldn’t be.”

Israel says the crossing and the corridor must remain in its hands if it is to choke off arms supplies to Hamas through the Sinai, whether through the crossing or the cross-border tunnel network Hamas operates.

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On Tuesday, in response to questions about tanks appearing on the streets of Rafah for the first time in the war, Israeli military spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said troops had “detected tunnels running along the Philadelphi Corridor ... going to Sinai.”

Egyptian officials have repeatedly dismissed Israeli accusations of allowing smuggling as “groundless,” adding that it has destroyed thousands of tunnels, created a buffer zone and built a barrier to prevent weapons transfers.

Details of exactly how the clash occurred remain murky. Initial Israeli reports said the Egyptian side was the first to open fire, while Egyptian state-affiliated Al Qahera News said preliminary investigations indicated a skirmish had started between Israeli soldiers and Palestinian fighters, with shots fired in multiple directions. That led an Egyptian security team member to take protective measures and “deal with the source of fire,” the news agency said.

“This is what Egypt has warned against for months,” an unnamed Egyptian security official told Al Qahera on Monday. “The Israeli attack on the Philadelphi Corridor creates field and psychological conditions that are difficult to control and liable to escalate.”

The killing of the soldier has ratcheted up anti-Israel sentiment in a country that has never managed more than a so-called cold peace with its neighbor, despite being the first Arab nation to sign a peace treaty with Israel in 1979.

“There are 115 million Egyptians who are not happy with what’s happening in Gaza,” Ragheb said. “They’re watching it every day on television screens. The Egyptian soldier stationed at the border is seeing massacres in real time before his very eyes. So this will be a provocation.”

Some of that anger could be seen on Tuesday, when dozens gathered in the central Egyptian village of Agameyin for the burial of the slain soldier, 22-year-old Abdullah Ramadan. Thousands left comments on his Facebook page, calling him a martyr and a hero, and excoriating the government for tamping down the matter.

Though the Egyptian government says it aims to preserve the peace treaty, popular rage against Israel may force it into taking measures it would rather not take.

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“The problem for Egypt is that public opinion is already at a boiling point because of what’s happening in Gaza,” said Mouin Rabbani, an analyst and nonresident fellow at the Center for Conflict and Humanitarian Studies. “If you now add dead Egyptians to the mix, that makes it all the more combustible. Should government officials get to a point where they have to do something to defuse discontent, then they may feel Israel’s conduct has created such public pressure on them that they have no choice but to do something more significant.”

A wider Israeli assault on Rafah could very well be that tipping point. On Sunday, hours before the shooting, Israeli warplanes attacked what they said were Hamas high-level targets in Rafah, killing 45 people in the process, Palestinian authorities say, and spurring a tsunami of international anger.

The wider destruction, meanwhile, has reached unprecedented proportions, aid groups say, with more than 36,000 people killed in Gaza, according to the Gazan Health Ministry, including many women and children. In the three weeks since Israel began what it called a limited operation in Rafah, around 1 million people have had to flee, many of them displaced before by the violence, according to the U.N.’s agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA.

“This happened with nowhere safe to go and amidst bombardments, lack of food and water, piles of waste and unsuitable living conditions,” UNRWA said on X on Monday. “Day after day, providing assistance and protection becomes nearly impossible.”

The war was sparked after Hamas operatives killed about 1,200 people in southern Israel, mostly civilians, and saw 250 others taken hostage. About 100 hostages remain in Gaza, along with the bodies of more than 30 others.

Few believe the Israel-Egypt peace treaty — a mainstay of Egypt’s foreign policy that brings in roughly $1.3 billion every year in military assistance from the U.S. — is at serious risk. But there’s little doubt the situation is affecting coordination between the two nations, said Rami Dajani, project director of Israel and Palestine with the International Crisis Group.

“The cumulative effects of these events impact how these agreements are functioning and the practical, real-life channels of communication on intelligence and security,” he said.

Spain, Norway and Ireland formally recognize a Palestinian state as EU rift with Israel widens

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It also raises questions about how both sides will manage the border area in the future.

“For both sides, it’s not a question of walking away from the treaty,” said Aaron David Miller, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and a former Arab-Israeli negotiator.

But with Israel seeking greater control over Gaza through the Philadelphi Corridor while Egypt insists it won’t reopen the crossing without Palestinians in control, matters are likely to be fraught for a long time.

Said Miller: “All of this poses an enormous amount of problems for the proverbial day after.”

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Israel seizes Gaza’s vital Rafah crossing, but U.S. says it isn’t the full invasion many fear

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Hamas is sending a delegation to Egypt for further cease-fire talks with Israel

May 2, 2024

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Nabih Bulos is the Middle East bureau chief for the Los Angeles Times. Since 2012, he has covered the aftermath of the “Arab Spring” revolution as well as the Islamic State’s resurgence and the campaign to defeat it. His work has taken him to Syria, Iraq, Libya, Turkey, Lebanon, Jordan and Yemen as well as on the migrant trail through the Balkans and northern Europe. A Fulbright scholar, Bulos is also a concert violinist who has performed with Daniel Barenboim, Valeri Gergyev and Bono.

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Nikki Haley Writes ‘Finish Them’ on Artillery Shell in Israel

Her visit came just days after Israel drew international condemnation for a strike that killed dozens of Gazan civilians in a camp for displaced Palestinians.

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By Maggie Astor

• May 29, 2024

Nikki Haley, the former Republican presidential candidate and U.N. ambassador during the Trump administration, wrote “Finish them” on an artillery shell in Israel this week.

Danny Danon, Israel’s former ambassador to the United Nations and a member of the Israeli Parliament, shared a photo on social media on Tuesday showing Ms. Haley signing the shell. Her visit came just days after Israel drew international condemnation for a strike that killed dozens of Gazan civilians in a camp for displaced Palestinians.

“This is what my friend, the former ambassador Nikki Haley, wrote today on a shell during a visit to an artillery post on the northern border,” Mr. Danon wrote, declaring of the Israeli military, “The I.D.F. will win!”

Ms. Haley finished her inscription with a note that “America loves Israel always,” using a heart emoji for “loves.”

She signed the artillery shell not along the Gaza frontier, in the south, but near Israel’s northern border with Lebanon, with which Israel also has a longstanding conflict. She also visited a kibbutz where Israelis were killed on Oct. 7, and her public remarks focused on Gaza.

Her trip included meetings with Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel’s prime minister, as well as with Yoav Gallant, the country’s defense minister, and Benny Gantz, a member of the war cabinet.

Ms. Haley’s message on the artillery shell drew denunciations from some commentators, including the author and columnist Wajahat Ali, who said in a video on TikTok : “If you think that Biden and Democrats are terrible on Gaza — I think they’ve been terrible — just know Republicans will be far, far worse, and I give you Nikki Haley.”

In an interview published Tuesday by the Israel Hayom newspaper, which is owned by the Republican donor Miriam Adelson, Ms. Haley said Israel had done nothing wrong in its invasion and bombardment of Gaza since Hamas attacked Israel on Oct. 7, killing about 1,200 people. And she said the United States should continue to support it unconditionally.

“Israel, they’re the good guys,” she said. “And you know what I want Israelis to know? You’re doing the right thing. Don’t let anybody make you feel wrong.”

Israel’s military operations have killed more than 36,000 Gazans, including thousands of women and children , according to the Gazan health ministry. Many of the casualties, including those in the tent camp on Sunday , have been caused by bombs provided by the United States. President Biden recently withheld an arms shipment out of concern that it would be used in an offensive on the city of Rafah, where displaced Palestinians are sheltering.

When asked in the Israel Hayom interview about civilians who crossed into Israel during the Oct. 7 attacks, she said: “The rest of the world can’t say, ‘Oh, be nice to the Palestinians,’ when these are some of the people who murdered their brothers and sisters.” She added: “They don’t know who to trust. That’s not Israel’s fault. That’s the Palestinians’ fault now.”

Ms. Haley’s comments are in line with her history of support for Israel and rejection of international criticism of its actions. As U.N. ambassador, she accused the United Nations of “bullying” Israel and led the U.S. withdrawal of funding for an agency that helps Palestinian refugees.

She recently fell back in line behind Mr. Trump after previously refusing to endorse him, and Mr. Trump suggested he might bring her onto his team “in some form.”

Aaron Boxerman contributed reporting.

Maggie Astor covers politics for The New York Times, focusing on breaking news, policies, campaigns and how underrepresented or marginalized groups are affected by political systems. More about Maggie Astor

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6 new credit cards and exciting travel perks in time for summer.

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The latest perks for summer are worth exploring.

Responsible credit card use can deliver a world of value in miles, points and benefits. But, different cards offer different perks as many travelers are looking for more than just bonus points.

According to the State of Loyalty Credit Card Rewards from iSeatz, there is a growing trend from credit card issuers to move away from traditional awards (flights, hotels and other points redemption) in favor of lifestyle rewards, including things like tours, activities, dining and wellness activities. There are also updated perks and bonus-earning categories when cardholders use their card for those lifestyle experiences.

These are some of the latest credit cards on the market and the extra perks they are offering in time for summer.

Barclays debuts Xbox Credit Card

A father and son are concentrating while sitting down at home playing video games together.

Video game players rejoice. This new card from Barclays Bank awards points that can be redeemed for xbox.com, Microsoft.com, or console and in-game purchases. The card does not have an annual fee, and after making your first purchase with the card, it unlocks three months of Game Pass Ultimate. Bonus points are a big part of this card: 5x points per dollar on eligible products at the digital Microsoft Store, 3x points on streaming services and dining delivery services.

New cards from Qatar Airways Privilege Club and Cardless

Qatar Airways launches new U.S. credit card.

In early May, Qatar Airways launched a waitlist for its first credit card in the U.S. Now, it is available for applications and awards cardholders Avios points that can be redeemed for free travel on Qatar and Oneworld airline partners . The Qatar Airways Privilege Club Visa Infinite Credit Card ($499 annual fee and instant Gold status) and Qatar Airways Privilege Club Visa Signature Credit Card ($99 annual fee and instant Silver status) both offer instant elite status for one year after being approved for the card. This is the first international loyalty program to offer a Visa Infinite credit card in the U.S. market. Cardholders earn 5x Avios points on Qatar Airways spend, 3x points on dining and one point on everything else. For the Visa Signature Card, the earning is 4x points for Qatar Airways flights, 2x points on dining and one point on everything else.

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What to watch this weekend new streaming shows and movies on netflix hulu prime video and more, wwe smackdown results winners and grades as aj styles turns heel again, citi strata premier card launches.

Citi Strata Premier Mastercard replaces the original Citi Premier card.

Replacing the Citi Premier card, Citi Strata Premier is a new card product with some upgraded perks. Existing cardholders will receive new Strata Premier cards, which will continue at a $95 annual fee. Among the changes are the ability to earn 10x ThankYou Points on hotels, attractions and car rentals booked directly through the Citi travel site. Cardmembers also receive 3x ThankYou Points when using electric vehicle charging stations. That is in addition to the previous bonus, which will continue, offering 3x points on air travel, dining, supermarkets and gas stations. Cardmembers also receive a $100 credit when making a hotel reservation through the Citi travel site for at least $500.

Special invitations for Chase Sapphire Reserve cardholders at Paris Olympics

Chase Sapphire Reserve cardholders have special access to events at the Paris Olympics.

Visa is offering some extra perks for Chase Sapphire Reserve cardholders attending the Paris Summer Olympics. Flash your card to enter the floating VIP lounge on the Seine where food, beverages and special athlete meet and greets will entertain. Cardholders also have special access to priority reservations at an iconic Parisian restaurant with up-close views of the Eiffel Tower. The a la carte menu is a collaboration between New York Chef Ignacio Mattos and Chef Charles Ducrocq. There is also an Olympics kick-off party for cardholders with tasty food and drinks on July 27.

AmEx launched another limited-edition Boeing 747 Delta SkyMiles Reserve Card

This is the second time American Express uses recycled aircraft to develop a credit card.

For the second time, American Express is releasing a limited-edition credit card made from a retired Jumbo Jet. It was so popular last time that AmEx is creating twice as many cards made from two separate 747 planes that were retired in 2017. The cards, which have a new white glossy finish, became available in late April although they will stop being offered June 5.

Cards increase Global Entry credits

Cards are updating their perks due to the fare increase.

On the heels of Global Entry rates going up from $100 to $120, many credit cards are boosting their credits to fully cover it. Among these are the Citi Prestige and Citi/AAdvantage Executive World Elite Mastercards; the AAdvantage® Aviator® Silver Mastercard; and a slew of Chase-branded credit cards. They include the Chase Sapphire Reserve, United Explorer Card, United Club Infinite Card, United Quest Card, IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card, J.P. Morgan Reserve Card, Southwest Rapid Rewards Performance Business Credit Card, IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card and Aeroplan Credit Card.

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