"I DON'T HAVE A PASSPORT" or "MY PASSPORT IS EXPIRED. MAY I STILL REGISTER FOR A TOUR?"
Yes! Register now, and once you receive your updated/new passport send us a copy.
CAN I BOOK MY OWN FLIGHT?
Yes, you can book your own flight. You will receive a discount/credit from the total trip cost. You must notify us as least three months before departure.
DO I NEED A VISA FOR ISRAEL?
U.S. citizens traveling to Israel do not need a visa. However, you must have a passport that is valid for at least six months from the date you are departing Israel for your return home.
DO I NEED TO BRING ANY MEDICATIONS?
If you are taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, be sure to pack enough to last your entire trip, as well as a little extra in the event of unexpected delays. Carry each medication in its original container with the label and pack it in your carry-on bag.
PACKING TIPS
- Think light and small! Only take items you truly need. Too much stuff can be a burden on your trip. Pick out what you think you need and cut it in half.
- Roll your clothes rather than fold them. Many travel experts agree that rolling is superior to folding. Tightly rolled clothes take up less space and are less likely to wrinkle.
- Let the hotel do your laundry. The typical tour is ten days. Pack for five days and do laundry halfway through the trip. It is relatively inexpensive and can make a big difference in the number of clothes that you bring.
NOTE: Some religious/holy sites require your knees and shoulders to be covered (applies to both men & women) – a scarf is recommended.
WHAT WILL THE WEATHER BE LIKE IN ISRAEL?
Temperatures in Israel average between 50 – 80F during the spring and fall, and 80 – 90F during the summer. Jerusalem is slightly cooler while Galilee and the Dead Sea region are warmer. As you get closer to your departure date, we recommend that you add Jerusalem and Tiberias to your weather app to get the forecast and current temperatures.
WILL I BE ABLE TO USE MY PHONE IN ISRAEL?
Most of the major U.S. cell phone carriers offer a “Travel Pass,” which allows you to use your domestic plan for an additional cost. If you do not want to get charged for using your phone, put your phone in airplane mode before you arrive in Israel. Each hotel and tour bus will have free Wi-Fi available.
WHAT TO WEAR
IN GENERAL:
In general, the dress in Israel is very casual. Modest shorts or jeans are acceptable at several tourist sites. Some holy sites require more modest clothing, particularly for women. Short skirts, shorts, tight pants/leggings, low cut or sleeveless tops should be avoided. Women should cover their shoulders, knees, and chest. We recommend that women carry a scarf or lightweight cardigan to cover up if necessary. Men should wear pants or shorts at or below the knees. Your guide will let you know which days to wear more modest clothing.
HOW MUCH LUGGAGE CAN I BRING?
The airline will allow each person to check one suitcase weighing 50lbs or less for your international flight. You may have one small carry-on bag and one personal item, such as a purse or laptop bag, onboard with you. Any carry-on bags and personal items must be able to fit in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you. Over-sized carry-on bags will be checked by the gate agent. Domestic carriers may charge for checked luggage.
HOW MUCH WALKING WILL I DO?
You will walk an average of three miles per day on this tour. This walking is done in small increments throughout the day and you will have frequent opportunities to rest if needed. If you are not accustomed to this amount of exercise, start walking a little each day to prepare yourself. We recommend properly breaking in any shoes you plan to wear before departing on the tour.
MONEY
-
The currency in Israel is the Israeli Shekel (NIS). You WILL NOT need to exchange dollars for Shekels. The dollar is widely used and accepted.
-
ATMs are available; however, you need to notify your bank or credit card company if you plan to make purchases with your debit or credit card.
ARRIVAL INFORMATION
-
Make sure you are wearing your name badge – this aids in identifying you with your group!
-
Go through customs and passport control, then collect your luggage.
-
Exit the baggage claim area, and watch for “Elias Tours” and your Tour Leader name signs – guides will remain in the area to locate guests.
-
Follow guide instructions for transferring to the bus and loading luggage.