Journey with us on A Mystical Odyssey in Bhutan (12 - 18 March '23).
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A complete introduction to Israel, this journey will take in its most renowned sites, with plenty of enriching experiences and personal connections with locals along the way. Play the role of an archaeologist, explore a kibbutz and meet charismatic Israelis of a range of pasts and professions, each with their own personality and captivating stories to tell. Launching off with a jaunt through the most sacred sites of Jerusalem, the epicenter of Abrahamic faiths, this journey makes a pass through the birthplace of Jesus before descending to the rugged Negev, the Dead Sea and Masada, then contrasts the stillness of the desert with vibrant Tel Aviv’s array of urban delights.
This journey outline is by no means fixed. As the traveller takes centre stage in our planning – from the type of lodging to daily activities – your journey will be crafted to suit you.
Arriving in Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport, you will be transferred as a group to Jerusalem. One of the oldest cities in the world, Jerusalem sits at the spiritual intersection where Judaism, Christianity and Islam share their faith. Today is free time for you to explore the Holy Land at your own pace.
Start your day with a bird’s eye view of the Old City from the Mount of Olives. Thereafter, you will follow the footsteps of Jesus. After witnessing the outpouring of emotions at the Wailing Wall, you will continue into highlights such as the Dome of the Rock, the Way of the Cross and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Continue to Mount Zion where you will visit the Tomb of King David, the Room of the Last Supper and the Church of the Dormition. Following a food tour at Mahinim Yehuda Market, we descend into the secret world of the Kotel Tunnel.
Let us whisk you to the birthplace of Jesus Christ in Bethlehem, where you will visit the Church of Nativity and the Milk Grotto Chapel. Afterwards, enjoy a cable car ride to the top of the Masada Fortress. This archaeological site is inscribed into the UNESCO World Heritage Site list for its important place in the history. It also boasts fantastic view of the Judean Desert and the Dead Sea. Finally, we descend into the Dead Sea where you will get an opportunity to float and cover yourself with therapeutic mud before returning to your accommodation. This evening, immerse into the Shabbat meal tradition with a Jewish family and learn how they welcome the holiest day of the week.
From Jerusalem, we will transfer to the Negev Desert in the southern part of Israel. Covering more than half of Israel, the Negev is renowned for its rocky, lunar-like landscape.
Discover the rare phenomenon of erosion basins at the gigantic Ramon Crater. Hop on a jeep ride through the other worldly landscapes while learning about the local floras and faunas, concluding with a scenic picnic lunch overlooking the crater. In the afternoon, breathe in the bursting desert aroma as you discover the miracle of the Israel’s desert winery. Unravel the secrets of wine-making against the challenges of arid desert condition.
This morning, we will visit a kibbutz to learn how this intentional community grow a green agriculture wonderland in the hot desert. If they can grow an agriculture masterpiece here, you can surely learn how to grow your own food anywhere in the world! Thereafter, we transfer to Tel Aviv.
Start your day with excursion into the port city of Caesarea with its ancient ruins from the Byzantine and Crusader periods. After a panoramic view of Haifa from the top of Mount Carmel, we will explore the splendid Bahai Gardens (UNESCO) and the Haifa Bay. Another UNESCO site awaits you at the old city of Akko with its subterranean city and bazaars. This site has survived for centuries despite bearing the marks of several conquerors. You will also visit Daliat el Karmel for a tea with Druze family, a unique minority who are very secretive about their traditions.
This morning, you will visit the Florentine Neighbourhood for a rare glimpse into professions that have disappeared from the world. Many of these artisans are finding a place for their crafts amidst imported advance technologies. The rest of the day is free at leisure before transferring to the airport for your flight home.
Let’s plan your perfect escape. To start the conversation, contact us via our interactive form or drop us an email at ask@blueskyescapes.co.
Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, West Bank, Haifa, Acre and Negev Desert.
Easy. No difficult hikes involved.
Best time to travel is between October and April, when temperatures are relatively cooler.
Min. 2 pax: From US$8,370/person
Min.4 pax: From US$35,730/person
The above priced is quoted on a private basis, including double-sharing rooms. Excludes flights.
As we’ll customise your journey based on your preferences and needs, please note that this indicative price is just a rough estimate. Prices can fluctuate depending on season, type of accommodation and activities/experiences chosen (private vs. shared) etc.
This journey outline is by no means conclusive. It is just a guideline and can be tailored according to your comfort level, interests and preferences for every detail from accommodation to activities.
