ISRAEL PRELUDE

Airport meeting assistance and transfer to Jerusalem

Pick up from hotel. Explore the biblical and cultural highlights of Old and New Jerusalem. Sights include Mount Zion, the ‘Old City’ and the Western Wall, the Stations of the Cross and the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, Yad Vashem Holocaust Museum. On Saturdays instead of Yad Vashem, drive to Ein Karem, southwest of Jerusalem, traditionally known as birthplace of John the Baptist; Stroll in the narrow lanes of the picturesque neighborhood, stopping by Mary’s spring and continue to visit the remarkable Church of Saint John the Baptist.

Depart Jerusalem and descend to the lowest place on earth. Drive along the shores of the Dead Sea to the rock fortress of Masada. Visit Herod’s palaces, dating back 2000 years. Then hear about the zealots who defied the Roman Empire from this location. Enjoy a chance to swim in the Dead Sea. The water is so rich in salts and minerals that you float!
Overnight: Jerusalem

Early morning departure north to Nazareth, to see the town of Joseph and Mary. Visit the Church of the Annunciation. Continue to the Sea of Galilee via Canna to visit the ruins at Capernaum. Stop at Tabgha, where the Miracle of the Fishes and Loaves took place. Return via the Baptismal site at Yardenit.
Overnight: Jerusalem

Transfer to airport for departure