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Israel: Old World Elegance with Modern Flair
ISRAEL
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Many of us think we know Israel. We imagine placing our hands on the Western
Wall, walking the path of Jesus’ final moments on the Via Dolorosa, seeing
the characters scrawled across the taut parchment of the Dead Sea Scrolls,
and standing before the very foundations of faith at the Church of the Holy
Sepulchre, the Dome of the Rock and the Temple Mount. We dream of walking
through Jaffa Gate into the ancient splendor of Jerusalem, strolling down the
modern streets of Tel Aviv, or floating effortlessly in the salty waters of the
Dead Sea. Such images connect Israel to our cultural and religious heritage —
indeed, they connect us to the heritage of the modern world. But, this is just the
beginning of the miracles Israel has to show us.
Site distinction for the Bauhaus and International Style architecture of Tel Aviv’s
Ahuzat Bayit neighborhood. Israel is also a destination for diamonds and other
luxurious little wonders, as a trip down Dizengoff Street or through the tony
Kikar Hamedina neighborhood in Tel Aviv makes clear. Wine and food lovers
will find a paradise in Israel, home to a wondrous assortment of international
cuisines as well as its world-famous hummus or falafel sandwiches and an
internationally lauded wine industry. For those who love getting out of doors,
Israel offers a number of attractions, including breathtaking natural wonders like
the Negev Desert, world-class beaches along four impressive bodies of water,
and enough hiking trails, bike paths and rope course for a lifetime of adventure.
You might be surprised to know, for example, that though today “green” is the
topic du jour, Israel has been a laboratory for innovative, sustainable practices
since the turn of the 20th century when Zionist farming cooperatives literally
made the desert bloom. Today, Tel Aviv’s once-notorious Hiriya landfill is being
transformed into a 2,000-acre public park with bike paths, rivers and hiking
trails. Further, Israel is investing $30 million over the next several years to
turn the country into an international biking destination. These impressive
projects only scratch the surface of the eco-friendly activities taking place
everyday in Israel.
In the following pages, you’ll learn about all of the adventures that await your
clients in Israel, where increased traffic is already evidence of growing
consumer interest. More than 1.9 million tourists visited Israel from January to
July of this year, an increase of over 34 percent from last year, with 280,000
in July alone. If you or your clients have any hesitations about safety, you can
rest assured. World-class security and screening measures have made Israel’s
national airline, El Al, the safest in the world, and the same goes for the country.
But don’t take our word for it — just look at the numbers! In 2009, 2.7 million
tourists came to experience the wonders of Israel, each and every one of them
returning home safely.
Israel is also a wonderland for aesthetes, epicures and shopaholics. Beyond its
well-known ancient architecture, Israel has received UNESCO World Heritage
3
Intro to Israel
4
Navigation Points
10
Going Green in Israel
14
Food and Wine
15
Food & Wine Itinerary
16
Leisure Time
Expect the World of Us.
18
Israel’s Great Outdoors
800-223-7460
21
Outdoor Itinerary
www.isramworld.com
IT’S NOT JUST AN AIRLINE. IT’S ISRAEL.
So, dive in! The wonders of Israel are just waiting to be discovered!
22ART, ARCHITECTURE AND MUSIC
26
Art, Architecture and Music Itinerary
On the cover: Top: Design Museum Holon by Yael Pincus;
Left: Jerusalem; Right: Eilat
Jaffa Gate
3
navigation points
Israel packs a lot into a little space. Bordered by Jordan, Syria, Egypt and Lebanon, this
cosmopolitan nation of citizens hailing from more than 90 countries sits at the heart of
the Middle East.
Though its historic, geologic, religious and cultural sites were the major
attractions for the over 2.7 million tourists who visited the country last year,
Israel also boasts an incredibly diverse terrain of world-class mountains, deserts
and beaches perfect for any traveler’s itinerary. It’s a trip your clients will
remember for a lifetime!
GETTING THERE
FLIGHTS: El Al, Continental, Delta, Air Canada and U.S. Airways operate over
10 daily non-stop flights to Tel Aviv from major U.S. cities, including New York
(JFK), Newark (EWR), Los Angeles (LAX), Atlanta (ATL) and Philadelphia (PHL),
as well as a number of connecting flights to get your clients to these origin
cities. Non-stop flight times range from 10 hours (New York) to 15 hours (Los
Angeles). In addition, over 70 international airlines operate flights to Ben Gurion
International Airport.
El Al, Israel’s premier national airline, offers travelers an authentic introduction
to the Israeli experience and is regarded as the safest airline in the world, so
your clients will enjoy a carefree flight. Onboard the plane, nibble hummus and
pita while watching a selection of in-flight movies and American and Israeli
TV shows, or listen to provided music while enjoying the comforts of Israeli
hospitality. If you’re booking upscale travelers, be sure to check out the
elegant King David Lounge at LAX, JFK and Ben Gurion airports for first and
business class!
CRUISES: A number of cruise lines make Israel’s Haifa and Ashdod ports a stop
on Mediterranean itineraries, and many of them offer detailed land excursions
into the historic cities of Jerusalem and Nazareth. For example, Princess
Cruises’ 12-day “Holy Land Cruise” stops at both ports this fall, departing from
However, while rental cars easily connect travelers to Israel’s lively and diverse
regions, travelers spending time in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv may find it more
expedient and affordable to use taxis, because traffic conditions can get quite
congested, and tight, narrow metropolitan roads can be difficult for drivers.
Civitavecchia (Rome) and Venice. RCL Vision of the Seas offers both 10- and
11-night excursions this fall, departing from Venice. Celebrity Equinox extends
the fun to 13 nights, taking off from Civitavecchia. For the more serious seafaring
set, clients traveling by private yacht can enter through ports in Haifa, Ashdod,
Tel Aviv and Eilat before continuing on to the country’s numerous marinas in
Jaffa, Acre, Herzliya and Ashkelon.
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION: Offering clients the chance to sit back and relax
while taking in the gorgeous scenery of the Mediterranean Coast and Negev
Desert, the national train network connects Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Acre and many
other stops. Tickets can be purchased in advance from cashiers at train station
counters or at automated ticket kiosks. The rail station in Ben Gurion airport is
located on Level S. For more information, visit www.rail.co.il/EN.
GETTING AROUND
AIRPORTS: Visitors will enter and exit Israel through the gates of Ben Gurion
International Airport, conveniently located about 10 miles from Tel Aviv and
about 27 miles from Jerusalem. Travelers will lack no options for shopping,
dining and relaxing while making their way among the swooping archways and
stone architecture of this breathtaking international hub. Transportation to and
from the airport and major destinations is easily managed across a network
of public bus and rail services. Rental cars, taxis, limousines and private car
services are also easily arranged for visitors.
DRIVING: Travelers can traverse the length of the country by car in about six
hours, making auto rental an attractive option for clients who want to maximize
the breadth of their tour in Israel. Popular rental companies include Budget,
Avis, Eldan, Hertz and Shlomo Sixt. For clients who like the VIP service of a
private car, there are several top-notch providers, including IsraLimo.
Israel has an impressive highway network, with signage in Hebrew, Arabic and
English, making navigation considerably easier than in many other travel
destinations. Major routes include Highway 6, which stretches North-South
from Nahariya in the north to Beersheba in the south, and Highway 1,
connecting Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and Ben Gurion International Airport. Ben Gurion International Airport
A JOURNEY
YOU’LL FIND
NOTHING SHORT
of divine.
Tel Aviv
FEATURED VACATIONS
4
Egged, the country’s public bus company, offers a number of routes in and
between Israel’s cities and major towns, with the exception of Tel Aviv and its
surrounding suburbs, which are serviced by the Dan buses. Fares are
reasonable and tickets can be purchased either on the bus or at station kiosks.
Though most routes are operated 24 hours a day, clients should be aware that
in some regions bus service is suspended during Shabbat, from sundown Friday
night to sundown Saturday night. During this period of religious observance,
travelers would do best to hail a cab to get to and from locations. For more
information about Egged routes, schedules and fares including Egged tour
buses, visit www.egged.co.il/eng. For information about the Dan bus service
in Tel Aviv, visit www.dan.co.il/english.
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Moses received the Ten Commandments to the Mount where Jesus delivered the Beatitudes,
the stories of the Bible will be brought to life in their original settings for your clients. With eight
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To book a religious vacation you can have faith in, call 877.797.8793 or visit globusfaith.com.
5
MONEY MATTERS
CURRENCY: Israel’s currency is the New Israel Shekel (NIS), simply called
WHEN TO GO
SEASONS: When organizing a trip to Israel, it is important to consider the cycle
“shekel” in the markets, restaurants, bars and attractions throughout the
country. Each shekel is divided into 100 agorot, though transactions involving
this penny-like denomination are rare for travelers. Bank notes are printed in
20-, 50-, 100- and 200-shekel denominations. There are also 1-, 5- and 10-shekel
coins, as well as the 5-, 10- and 50-agorot coins. At press time, the exchange rate
for USD$1 is NIS3.82, a welcome relief for travelers who have had to grapple with
the lower exchange rates of the Euro and British Pound. of the country’s tourist seasons alongside the needs of your clients. As with
most of the world, Israel’s peak season is during July and August, when European and American travelers in particular take advantage of summer vacation
months and, along with many Israelis, flock to the beaches of Eilat
and the Mediterranean Coast. Christian and Jewish high holidays are also
popular, particularly Passover and Easter (March and April), Rosh Hashanah
(September or October) and Christmas (December). During these peak seasons,
both airfare and accommodations will be at their most expensive, so if budget
is a concern, try to arrange a trip around the low season months of January,
February, May and June.
agent info
Credit cards are accepted at most shops, restaurants and hotels. MasterCard,
Visa, American Express and Discover cards are universally accepted. Traveler’s
Globus
Globus offers eight decades of travel experience with its religious and
faith-based tour packages, giving travelers the perfect combination of
faith and fun. To book a religious vacation you can have faith in, call
877-797-8793 or visit www.globusfaith.com.
checks are typically only accepted at tourist destinations and are not a
recommended form of payment or currency.
TAXES: With the exception of accommodations, organized tours, car rentals and
flights paid either in foreign currency or with a foreign credit card, all prices
include a 15.5 percent value-added tax (VAT). However, tourists who purchase
goods over $100 at shops advertising “Tax Refund/Tax-Free Shopping” can
receive a VAT refund at their port of departure. Tourists should make sure that
they receive a special invoice or receipt for such purchases to be submitted for
refund at the VAT office. Purchases of tobacco products, electric appliances and
photography equipment do not qualify for a refund.
TIPPING: As in the U.S., 10 to 15 percent is typical for restaurant service, and exceptional service may warrant a 20 percent tip at the diners’ discretion. In luxury
hotels and restaurants, a 15 percent service charge may be included in the bill.
Though it is not customary, tipping is appreciated by taxi drivers and hotel staff.
Tour guides and drivers will usually expect a tip for service.
6
WEATHER REPORT: One of the great things about Israel’s climate is that it
affords fairly warm, sunny weather year-round. Even in January and February,
temperatures across Israel stay in the moderate range of high 40s to 70 degrees
on average. During the hot summer months, temperatures climb into the 80s,
hitting highs over 100 degrees in some of the country’s hottest regions. In
general, travelers will find cooler temperatures in mountainous locations such
as Jerusalem and Haifa, while warmer temperatures are the norm in the coastal
cities of Tel Aviv, Eilat and the Dead Sea.
Eliat
Eilat is located along the Red Sea on the southern tip of Israel where
you can swim with dolphins, discover the beautiful Underwater
Observatory and view life in its natural habitat. Boasting luxurious
hotels and limited budget accommodations, Eilat offers aqua-based
sports, including water skiing, scuba diving, jet skiing and wind surfing.
www.eilathotels.org.il
WHERE TO STAY
Like many top international destinations, Israel has a number of upscale and
luxury chain hotels that will be both familiar and accommodating to foreign
travelers. Holiday Inn, Sheraton, Hilton and Crowne Plaza all have a number of
properties across Israel’s popular locations.
David Intercontinental iconic beach
agent info
Currency exchange centers are easily located in major cities and do not charge
commission for transactions, though they provide a slightly lower exchange rate
than banks, which may charge up to four percent commission for their services.
Automatic teller machines (ATMs) are also a readily accessible source of
currency, though withdrawals may be subject to transaction fees in addition
to fees associated with the client’s domestic U.S. bank. Travelers will have little
trouble using their Visa cards at ATMs throughout the country, though those
wishing to use a MasterCard can only do so at Bank Hapoalim locations.
Experience Summer at Israel’s
Winter Riviera - EILAT
Relax and enjoy the endless fun in the sun from fabulous water sports to cultural events.
Wine, Dine and enjoy Eilat like never before.
Sign up now for the magic of Eilat.
Adi Hotel
AFI Patio Eilat
Americana
Astral Village
Astral Seaside
Caesar Premier Eilat
Club Hotel Eilat
Club In Eilat
Club Med Coral Beach
Crowne Plaza
Dalia Hotel
Dan Eilat
Dan Panorama Eilat
Express Beat
Golden Tulip Privilege
Herods Palace
Herods Forum
Herods Vitalis
Hilton Queen of Sheba
Holitel Siesta
Isrotel Agamim
Isrotel King Solomon’s Palace
Isrotel Lagoona
Isrotel Royal Beach
Isrotel Royal Garden
Isrotel Riviera Club
Isrotel Sport Club
Isrotel Yam Suf
Le Meridien Eilat
Leonardo Club Eilat
Leonardo Plaza Eilat
Magic Palace
Magic Sunrise Club
Nova
Orchid
Prima Music
Rimonim Eilat
Rimonim Marina Club
Royal Tulip
Vista
Call your travel agent today for further information or contact:
Eilat Hotel Association, Tel: 972-8-6338034 Fax: 972-8-6338151
Email: eha1@eha.co.il www.eilathotels.org.il
A NOTE ABOUT SAFETY
In Jerusalem, clients will enjoy the luxury of the David Citadel hotel, a short
walk from historic Damascus Gate and the Old City, or the Mamilla Hotel, a
trendy spot located at the foot of a hot shopping area. The King David, one
of the prestigious Dan Hotel properties, offers perhaps one of the finest
experiences in the city. Upscale travelers will also delight in the American
Colony Hotel in Jerusalem, a feature in the city for over 120 years where
Arabian architecture and lavish accommodations have attracted major cultural
and political celebrities. A bright future also awaits the Waldorf-Astoria
Jerusalem, slated to open in 2011 with over 220 luxury suites and gorgeous
views of the Old City and Independence Park. While taking in the restorative
waters of the Dead Sea and checking out nearby attractions such as Qumran, Ein
Gedi and Masada, guests will no doubt be pleased with the luxury at Daniel Dead
Sea, owned by the Tamares Hotels Group, or the Royal Hotel, which features
an enormous spa with some 52 treatment rooms.
If you or your clients have hesitated to book a vacation to Israel because of safety
concerns, rest assured that the headlines that have colored the country in the media
bear little resemblance to the lived reality of its citizens and visitors.
American Colony Hotel
Travelers are pleasantly surprised by how different their perception of Israel is from
their experience traveling about the Promised Land. In 2009, each and every visitor
traveling to Israel returned home safely.
In fact, many visitors feel more secure traveling to and around Israel than they do
anywhere else, with thorough screening procedures and enforcement that ensure
every traveler a safe journey. Clients will find that the streets of Tel Aviv, Jerusalem
and many other cities throughout the nation are safe to walk at all times and are,
especially in Tel Aviv, bustling with activity until the wee hours.
In Tel Aviv, those who want to take in hotels, conveniently located near the area’s
gorgeous beaches, will find the David Intercontinental or Dan Panorama to be
wonderful options, while others may enjoy the chic peacefulness of the boutique
Neve Tzedek Hotel.
El AL
The Inbal Jerusalem Hotel
For over 60 years, EL AL has remained the most trusted airline to
Israel. Only EL AL offers the warmth, hospitality and professionalism of
the English speaking Israeli crew who make travelers feel at home. To
receive the latest EL AL information, visit the airline’s blog at
www.skywordswithelal.com, Facebook EL AL Israel Airlines USA and
Twitter @ELALUSA.
Live in the lap of luxury with executive suite deals through Feb. 28,
2011, at the Inbal Jerusalem Hotel, discounted from $560 per room.
Clients can enjoys an array of “Exclusive Executive” discounted amenities, including complimentary access to the Executive Lounge, featuring views of Jerusalem, snacks and drinks, free wi-fi and business
services, and much more. (Subject to availability. Blackout dates may apply.)
www.inbalhotel.com/suite-dream-package
notch accommodations along the stunning shoreline of this tony resort city.
Beach-going guests might also enjoy the forthcoming Ritz Carlton property set
to open in Herzliya in 2012, complete with all of the luxury amenities customers
have come to expect from this storied name.
If looking further south in the Negev desert, consumers booking trips in 2011
should consider the Beresheet Hotel, a 112-room complex that will include a
King David
8
Tel Aviv Art Fair
Information Center
Tel: 1-888-77-ISRAEL or 1-212-499-5660
Fax: 212-499-5665
Website: www.goisrael.com
www.travelgreenisrael.com
Information: info@goisrael.com
Los Angeles
6380 Wilshire Blvd. Suite 1718
Los Angeles, CA 90048
Tel: 1-323-658-7463
Fax: 1-323-658-6543
Information: danm@imot.org
Atlanta
1349 West Peachtree St., NE.
Suite 1799
Atlanta, GA 30309
Tel: 1-404-541-2770
Fax: 1-404-541-2775
Information: infoatlanta@imot.org
New York
800 Second Ave.
New York, 10017
Tel: 1-212-499-5650
Fax: 1-212-499-5655
Information:
igtonewyork@imot.org
Chicago
205 North Michigan Ave.
Suite 2520
Chicago, IL 60601
Tel: 1-312-803-7080
Fax: 1-312-803-7079
Information: nicollef@imot.org
Canada
180 Bloor St. West, Suite 700
Toronto, ON M5S 2V6
Tel: 1-416-964-3784
Fax: 1-416-964-2420
Website: www.goisrael.ca
Information: info@igto.ca
agent info
agent info
In Eilat, there are numerous options, but none so elegant as the Dan Eilat,
Dan Panorama, Princess Hotel and Royal Beach Hotel, all of which boast top
CONTACT US
convention center, full service spa, and a department dedicated to making
tour arrangements for guests looking to experience the natural beauty of the
surrounding desert. In addition to the options sketched out here, there are a
wide range of boutique, upscale, family and economy hotels throughout Israel.
For a unique experience, you might check out the popular zimmers (bed and
breakfasts), or the kibbutz guest houses, which while rustic in flavor, offer
visitors something of a retreat from the high traffic tourist areas.
David Citadel
5
going green in israel
Even before its foundation as a modern Jewish state in 1948, Israel has been a trailblazer
for the development and perfection of sustainability and environmental consciousness.
In 1901, the Jewish National Fund (also known as Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael or
KKL) formed and made one of its top priorities the reforestation of Israeli lands
decimated during the rule of the Ottoman Empire when taxes were fixed according to the number of trees on a property. As a result of these and other efforts,
over 200 million trees have been planted in Israel, making it one of only two
nations in the world that has more trees per acre today than it did a century
ago. Long before conservation became chic in the west, solar water heaters were
a frequent sight atop most buildings in Israel. And you might not know that the
drip irrigation systems currently used by farmers in the U.S. and many other
countries were first developed in Israel during the 1950s.
More than just founding principles, sustainability is an integral part of life
in modern Israel, where kibbutzim and moshav farmers produce roughly 75
percent of the country’s produce in a nation that has only 15 percent arable
land. Your clients can experience a sustainable Israel for themselves by
spending a holiday at a kibbutz guest house, taking a low-impact tour of major
city sights, or marveling at the progress of one of the country’s — and perhaps
even the world’s — most amazing reclamation projects: the transformation of the
Hiriya landfill into a world-class green space, three times the size of New York’s
Central Park.
Hiriya Park
ON THE KIBBUTZ
Starting at the beginning of the twentieth century, kibbutzim, or collective
living communities, were Zionist agrarian projects that evinced the socialist,
pioneering spirit of the modern state’s early settlers. These innovative ventures
produce some of the tastiest dairy products, poultry, beef, vegetables, citrus
fruits and legumes you’ll find in Israel or anywhere else. Though today many of
them have been privatized and expanded into non-agricultural sectors such as
technology, travelers and citizens alike still benefit from the experience of
these unique social institutions.
The best way to understand the kibbutzim’s contribution to Israel is to spend
a holiday at a kibbutz guest house. The Israel Kibbutz Hotels website at
www.kibbutz.co.il provides information on lodging options at kibbutzim
throughout the country. Running the gamut from full amenities to more
rustic living, guests at kibbutz hotels invariably find the experience a relaxing
and peaceful one. One of the most popular is Kibbutz Lotan in the Arava
Desert, where green architecture meets wild design in a village of adobe-like
houses. Sustainability is the focus at this kibbutz where visitors can sample
eco workshops, holistic natural spa treatments, bird-watching excursions and
tours of the surrounding desert wonders. For more information, visit
www.kibbutzlotan.com. Biking enthusiasts will find themselves in good company here, where
the government has committed about $30 million over the next few
years to make Israel a global cycling destination, adding more than 3,000
miles of cycling paths. Whether it’s biking through the desert, along the
coastline or cities that your clients want, there are a variety of tours for
all ages and experience levels. Biking tours, such as the annual Israel
Ride from Jerusalem to Eilat, give participants a chance to witness the
country’s changing landscape while learning about the environment
and cultural history. For reasonably priced half-day to eight-day tours,
check out www.israelcycling.com, which lists a number of road bike
and mountain bike excursions through the Galilee, Dead Sea, the Negev
Desert and many other destinations.
Near the resort town of Eilat, take a camel ride through the mountains
at the Camel Ranch. Only a 10-mile drive from most of the area’s resort
hotels, the Camel Ranch is an exciting experience for the whole family.
Take the two-hour excursion which includes an hour of camel riding
around the scenic mountains and a light repast of traditional Bedouin
pita, vegetables and dips alongside an earthy tea made from desert
herbs. The half-day tour goes up into the mountains, with a few stops
along the way to take breathtaking photos of the surrounding area as
well as nibbling on a light Bedouin supper spread before heading back
to the ranch under the twinkling stars. For more information, check out
www1.camel-ranch.co.il/ or www.camel-riders.com.
Yalla_TW_half tab_Israel_v2.qxd:Yalla Tours
8/17/10
10:30 AM
Camel Ride
Ya’lla Tours
Travel agents can earn $50 for each passenger they book on any
Israel program with a minimum seven-night hotel stay and six days of
escorted touring. Bookings must be made by March 31, 2011, for travel
by September 28, 2011. www.yallatours.com
agent info
Page 1
GREEN TOURING
For clients looking to experience Israel while keeping a low carbon footprint,
there are a number of running, biking, camel and horseback-riding tours of the
country’s major attractions.
Runners will thrill at “sight jogging” tours available in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.
For example, Run the City’s “Luxury and Diamonds” tour is a 10-kilometer run
through Tel Aviv that passes by Philippe Starck’s Yoo Project building, the city’s
Diamond District and the opulent houses of the city’s elite. Or, try the “Roots
and Tradition” run, which follows the footsteps of Tel Aviv’s founders, including
the American-German Colony, Old Jaffa Port, Meir Garden and the trendy Neve
Tzedek neighborhood. For more information, check out www.run-the-city.com.
Planting trees in Israel
10
information@yallatours.com
800.644.1595 // www.yallatours.com
Isrotel - Your Luxury Accommodation In Israel
A STORY OF RENEWAL
Perhaps nowhere can the spirit of green innovation and sustainability be seen
more than at the Ayalon Ariel Sharon Park. By 2020, the park will be a massive,
2,000-acre green space with a 45,000-person capacity amphitheater and an
amazing network of streams, bike paths, running and hiking trails. There will also
be a lookout spot from which visitors can take in an unparalleled panorama of
Tel Aviv while sipping freshly brewed coffee and nibbling on tasty café fare.
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Perillo Tours
The Isrotel Hotel Chain
We all enjoy traveling for fun, to learn or simply to relax. But there’s
one journey that’s in a category all its own — a place called ISRAEL!
For information on tours to Israel, Italy and Hawaii, visit
www.perillotours.com.
The Isrotel Hotel Chain operates 12 hotels throughout Israel. Its 13th
hotel, the Isrotel Beresheet on the Ramon Crater, will open by March
2011 and offer guests a complete vacation experience with a range of
activities, including sports facilities, diving and cruising in the Red Sea,
a Kids’ Kingdom, shopping centers, fine dining and the international
entertainment show WOW. www.isrotel.co.il/English
Dead Sea
agent info
agent info
From this perspective, you might hardly imagine that this gorgeous property
was once Tel Aviv’s out-of-control Hiriya landfill. Since its closure in the nineties,
environmentally conscious groups have been working to transform Hiriya into a
monument to green living. Part of that process has involved harvesting biogas
released by waste for use by manufacturers, a botanical garden that filters
sewage water and an on-site recycling facility, all of which are helping to build
a sustainable future for the park while setting a model for Israel and the world.
Starting this month, visitors will be able to stop by the lookout point and take a
run along the hiking and biking trails. At the visitor’s center, tourists can learn
about rehabilitation efforts at the park and check out resident artist Brigitte
Cartier’s signature furniture, all constructed out of waste materials including
rubber tires, shopping bags and crushed aluminum cans. For more information,
visit www.ayalon-park.org.il/eng.
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Israel & The Holy Land... a Journey Your Clients Will Cherish Forever!
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food & wine
food & wine itinerary
Integral to Israeli culture and lifestyle, local food and wine from the country’s natural
bounty, predating Biblical times, never tasted as delicious as it does now in Israel.
A WORLD OF CUISINES
Home to Jews, Muslims and Christians from over 90 countries, gastroculture in
Israel is a veritable world tour sure to please any palate. The natural bounty of
the Mediterranean Sea and the fresh produce from the country’s kibbutzim and
moshavim means that eating locally has never tasted as fresh and delicious as
it does in Israel. As you venture around the cities, be sure to take advantage
of the numerous stands offering fresh squeezed fruit juices, pomegranates
and olives — luxuries in other parts of the world, but everyday treats in Israel
— or take a taste of malabi, a light, creamy custard served with rosewater and
chopped nuts. And no trip to Israel is complete without sampling its amazing
dairy products, from creamy, tangy yogurts to wholesome milk and some of the
most decadent, delicious chocolates in the world.
Jerusalem Jaffa Gate Bagels
© Eric Newman
DAY 1
Start with a walking tour of Jerusalem’s Old City, including the Church of the
Holy Sepulchre, the Dome of the Rock and the Damascus Gate. For lunch, take
a tasting stroll of Mahane Yehuda market. Have dinner at the truly exceptional
kosher restaurants that abound in the city. Overnight in Jerusalem.
munch on an oval-shaped “Jerusalem bagel,” pop into a hummus restaurant for
a light lunch or grab a world-famous falafel from a nondescript stand. Beyond
the markets and eateries that populate the cultural capitals of the country,
Israel boasts a number of truly exceptional upscale restaurants that show
off their culinary prowess with skillful fusion dishes, particularly of the
French-Mediterranean variety.
Day 2
Take a morning drive up to the Galilee for a tour of the Golan Heights Winery.
Drive to Rosh Pina, the oldest Jewish settlement, and stop for lunch at any of
the town’s precious eateries. Overnight in Jerusalem.
FRUITS OF THE VINE
Day 3
Wine production in Israel predates Biblical times, and, much like the bottled
vintages, Israeli vintners have only gotten better with age. Energized by the
legendary Baron Edmond James de Rothschild, who in 1882 established the
Carmel Winery near Haifa with imported French grape varietals, the modern
Israeli wine industry is a point of pride for the country. In 2007, prominent wine
critic Robert Parker awarded 14 Israeli wines scores over 90 points, qualifying
them as outstanding, world-class vintages. Though the most popular wines
are Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot and Chardonnay, there are a
surprising number of excellent Gewurztraminers and Rieslings.
Drive to Tel Aviv. Take a tour of the Shuk HaCarmel. Break for lunch at the
small, local eateries that dot the nearby Yemenite neighborhood. Make a stop
at old Jaffa, and order a malabi from any of the many street stands before
taking a walking tour of the historic port. For dinner, sample some of the
traditional Lebanese cuisine in Jaffa, taking care to include a taste of shakshuka,
a home-style dish of poached eggs cooked with tomatoes, onions and a variety
of fragrant spices. Overnight in Tel Aviv.
Day 4
Israeli wine production is divided among five major regions. In the northern area
of Galilee, cooler mountain temperatures and rich soils produce what is widely
Food is integral to Israeli culture and lifestyle. One particular wonder is the
Israeli breakfast, which includes heaping platters of smoked or cured fish, a
large variety of cheeses, grains, salads, fresh breads and egg dishes. A mainstay
at Israeli hotels, this morning smorgasbord blows the continental breakfast out
of the water and is a beloved experience for all travelers. When dining out, be
sure to sample the mezze-style appetizers, including spicy pepper dip,
baba ghanoush and lemon-cured squash. Enjoy exquisite seafood in the coast
cities of Eilat, Tel Aviv and Haifa, and while traveling in the Galilee, stop into
a Druze village for some traditional pita, covered with tart yogurt cheese and
sprinkled with aromatic herbs and spices.
Culinary tours have become increasingly popular here, and many guides
organize excursions to the country’s famous open-air markets, or shuks:
Jerusalem’s Mahane Yehuda and Tel Aviv’s HaCarmel. Walk along the rows of
vendors to sample some of the freshest olives, mangos, figs, cheeses and fruits,
Open-air market
Mini Israel is a unique and one-of-a-kind “Park of Miniatures” located
in the Latrun region. Exhibiting hundreds of amazingly exact models
(scale 1:25) of the most important architectural, historic, archeological,
religious and social sites in Israel, this model park represents all
religions and cultures inhabiting the country. www.minisrael.co.il.
considered to be Israel’s best wine. Of the numerous wineries in this region,
standouts include the Golan Heights Winery, Chateau Golan and
Tabor Winery. South of Haifa, the coastal plains of the Shomron region and
the fertile soils of the Carmel Mountains serve one of the country’s biggest
grape-producing regions, which plays host to the Tishbi Winery and Amphorae
Winery. The temperate climate of the central Samson region fuels the Carmel
Winery, the country’s largest and close enough to Tel Aviv to make for an easy
half-day visit. South of Jerusalem, the Judean Hills is a newcomer to the wine
industry, but it’s the home of Domaine du Castel, one of Israel’s most awardwinning wineries, as well as the Tzora Winery. A real bloom in the desert, the
arid lands of the Negev have benefitted from breakthrough irrigation technology, bringing consumers a small but intriguing array of wines from boutiques
such as the Yatir Winery.
While most wineries will be able to accommodate one or two visitors dropping in
to sample and shop, it is recommended that those wishing to tour wineries and
vineyards call ahead and make reservations, especially for the boutique operations. Guides specializing in wines are recommended for those who wish to do
more thorough touring of the various wine regions of Israel.
14
agent info
Mini Israel
See it ALL Small
Shakshuka
Start off a day of intensive wine touring with a drive north to the Shomron
region, where you’ll sample the elegant Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir
vintages at the Tishbi and Amphorae wineries. Stop for a quick lunch in Tel Aviv
before heading south to the Carmel Winery, the country’s largest and one of
its most storied. Swing over to the award-winning Domaine du Castel Winery
in the Judean Hills, making sure to try the lauded Chardonnay and Grand Vin
wines. Drive south through the Negev for a brief tour of the Yatir Winery before
continuing on to the resort town of Eilat. Overnight in Eilat.
DAY 5
Enjoy the sumptuous and plentiful
Israeli breakfast in your hotel
before taking a relaxing walk
along the beach promenade.
In the afternoon, take a camel
tour at the nearby Camel
Ranch, and enjoy some
traditional Bedouin cuisine
for lunch. After taking a tour
of the geological wonders of
the surrounding area, have
a family friendly, al fresco
Israeli dinner at the casual
restaurants that dot the busy
promenade. Overnight in Eilat.
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leisure time
With shopping scenes hailed internationally and nightlife to satisfy a diverse clientele,
Israel’s wealth of leisure activities offer non-stop entertainment for any traveler.
SHOPPING
Shopping is something of a national pastime in Israel and yet another point
where ancient tradition meets modern luxury in this charming, diverse country.
Tel Aviv and Jerusalem dominate the shopping scene with commercial zones
that run the gamut from tony, high-end boutiques to breezy and affordable
open-air markets, where tourists can pick up the latest Israeli fashions, jewelry,
ceramics and other unique items to bring back home.
As the shopping capital of Israel, Tel Aviv is full of boutiques, malls and stores
selling everything the sophisticated traveler could desire. One of the main
attractions is the well-known Dizengoff Center, a maze of boutiques, restaurants, movie theatres, and even a rooftop swimming pool and gym, which plays
host to some 140,000 visitors a week!
For fashionistas looking for a survey course in Israeli style, stroll through the
Kikar Hamedina area of northern Tel Aviv, where the city’s elite shop for
high-end looks from local designers, including Sigal Dekel and Ronen Chen,
in addition to international icons such as Gucci, Prada and Yves St. Laurent.
To the south, the casual backstreets of the chic Neve Tzedek neighborhood are
dotted with high-quality jewelry, crafts and apparel boutiques. Many shops stay
open until sundown, making the area perfect for a leisurely trip before grabbing
dinner at any of the neighborhood’s adorable and delicious restaurants.
Another boutique hot spot is Shenkin Street, where shoppers and café-hoppers
jam the streets on Fridays. At the tail end of Shenkin Street, visitors traveling
on a Tuesday or Friday will delight in the Nahalat Binyamin Arts & Crafts Fair,
a wonderful resource for affordable, high quality handmade sculptures, jewelry
and craft art.
Artists and art-lovers alike will definitely not want to miss the treasures they’ll
find in the nearby port city of Jaffa. One of the oldest ports in the world, this
breezy, seaside outpost is home to a number of artists’ boutiques specializing
in metalwork, jewelry, sculpture, vintage artwork and fabric art. While passing
through its streets, be sure to stop into Farkash Gallery for its amazing vintage
posters and framed reprints of mid-century nationalist, advertising and travel
campaigns. At the Frank Meisler gallery, visitors can find the artists’ iconic
pewter figurines and sculptures. One of the must-see places in this area is the
gallery and residence of Israeli artist and collector Ilana Goor, which houses
excellent examples of Israeli metalwork, sculptural furniture, jewelry and
abstract art.
In Jerusalem, shoppers will find almost as many wonders in the city’s shopping
centers as they will areas of historic import. In the southwest corner of the city
in the neighborhood of Malha sits the Jerusalem Mall, one of the biggest
shopping centers in the Middle East. With almost 200 shops and restaurants,
eight movie theatres, a department store and supermarket, it’s got something
for every client. Visitors should also check out Emek Refai’m Street in the
historic German Colony, one of the city’s liveliest commercial streets, jammed
with shops, eateries and bars. Take in some history while you shop in the
Cardo, the main thoroughfare of the Jewish Quarter, where ancient Roman
columns still stand. Beginning in the Byzantine era, this long street has been a
commercial center, and today is no different with the typical souvenirs and
Judaica sold alongside quality jewelry and art in the tiny shops that line the
street. For the shopper whose eye tends towards the extravagant and the
high-end, cruise down King David Street, Solomon Street or the Mamilla Mall.
All boast an impressive assortment of ceramics, apparel and jewelry from local
and international names.
Though Tel Aviv and Jerusalem are mainstays for shoppers, there are many
other spots to check out on a tour of Israel. In the northeastern town of Safed,
visitors can stock up on Judaica and jewelry while exploring the alleyways of
this cradle of Kabbalah practice and study. Just slightly west lies Rosh Pina, the
first Jewish settlement in Israel where travelers can delight in the galleries, gift
shops and famous chocolatiers overlooking the Hula Valley and Mount Hermon.
Beauty shoppers will thrill at the variety of Dead Sea-derived cosmetics available
all around Israel, particularly at Kibbutz Ein Gedi.
NIGHTLIFE & ENTERTAINMENT
Travelers who have experienced the high-throttle nightlife of cities like New
York, Paris and London will be impressed with the non-stop electricity of Tel Aviv
after dark. And because Tel Aviv itself is relatively small in size and cab fares are
cheap, it’s easy to make a hot spot-hopping night on the town.
Rosh Pina
An easy first stop is Tel Aviv Port, where young people and soldiers on leave
flock to party at the dance bars like Whisky A-Go-Go, while diners of all ages
enjoy some of the city’s best al fresco seafood. In Neve Tzedek, grab a drink at
Jajo Vino, an eclectic wine bar where the wine list changes every week, before
grabbing a romantic, elegant dinner at any of the neighborhood’s chic eateries. Since most establishments in this residential neighborhood close around
midnight, keep the party going over on Herzl Street with drinks at Weiss, a
popular bar with an open-air patio that many may not recognize is one of the
oldest houses in Tel Aviv. Further down the street is Nanutchka, a funky, raucous
bar with lively DJs and an even livelier crowd that parties all night long while
noshing on Georgian bistro fare. Take a cab to Carlebach Street for a tour of Tel
Aviv’s hottest nightclubs, including The Cat and Dog, a tight subterranean dance
bar with a chic, speakeasy feel that is slammed on Friday nights when Tel Aviv’s
in-crowd takes to the dance floor. Further off are the clubs of Ha’Masger and
Ha’Rehevet Streets, which have a reputation for bacchanal revelry. If you’re
looking to wind down, head over to Rothschild Boulevard, where many visitors
and locals can be found taking a casual stroll or stopping for a game of chess by
late-night lamplight.
LGBT clientele will find a wealth of entertainment options in the cosmopolitan
city of Tel Aviv, where an open and vibrant gay culture calls to mind progressive
mainstays like San Francisco and Chelsea. Many clubs have dedicated gay nights
(called “lines” by locals) during the week, and some of the most popular gay bars
are Zizi and Evita, which puts on an outrageous drag revue during the week.
Eilat
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Although it doesn’t have the breadth of Tel Aviv’s nightlife, Eilat is perfect
for night owls. The lounges of the palatial resorts in this beautiful city on the
Red Sea boast lively dance parties and entertainment until the wee hours, while
couples enjoy the romantic setting of a walk along the promenade after a leisurely
dinner. Many travelers also enjoy the quieter evenings of Jerusalem. Take a walk
down Emek Refai’m Street for example, where evening hours bring out the lights
of the cafes, restaurants and bars, giving the street an aura of a festival.
agent info
**
israel’s great outdoors
While checking out the many wonders of Israel, make time to relax on the
beaches that mark this country as a true oasis in the desert. Some of the most
popular spots are in Tel Aviv, where tourists and sabras alike frolic in the gentle,
cerulean waves of the Mediterranean and play volleyball or the paddle ball
(called matkot) in the shadows of the luxurious hotels that line the shore. Head
north to Herzliya’s Apollonia Beach, which used to be the ancient Phoenician
fishing village of Arsuf, or Accadia Beach, named after the upscale Dan Accadia
Hotel and regarded as one of the most beautiful in the country. Caesarea’s
Habonim Beach, part of a reserve park that features various inlets, reefs, caves
and wave fountains for exploration, boasts striking beach views of the Roman
Though cultural and religious attractions could fill up even a month’s itinerary, any
trip to Israel would be incomplete without experiencing the country’s breathtaking
natural world.
The southern parts of the country and the Negev Desert offer endless
opportunities for clients who like to “rock out.” The strange geologic formations
springing from the barren grounds at Timna Valley Park, once the site of an
ancient Egyptian copper mine, offer a glimpse into the region’s geological
history. Bring a camera to catch photos of wild ibex and gazelles scampering
around the towering rock walls rising skyward in all directions. Check out the
sublime grandeur of Solomon’s Pillars — soaring columnar rocks carved out by
centuries of erosion — and the temple to the Egyptian goddess Hathor before
taking a climb up the mountain steps for a truly awesome view. Deep in the heart
of the Negev lies the Makhtesh Ramon, an enormous crater-like depression
formed over 110 million years ago. The process of its formation has left exposed
layers of igneous, sedimentary and composite rock that are a true storybook of
the past 200 million years. At the visitor’s center, groups can learn about the site
and stop by Bio Ramon, a small zoo that puts visitors face to face with desert
animals. A short drive from Jerusalem is the Soreq Cave, which contains a
agent info
InterContinental
InterContinental David Tel Aviv combines the magic of the Mediterranean with
a metropolitan setting. Beautiful guest rooms overlook the sea and city, while
various dining options, including the Aubergine restaurant and Inca Cigar bar,
serve excellent international cuisine. Facilities include 24-hour room service,
seasonal kids’ club, Riki Spa & Gym and an outdoor pool.
www.InterContinental.com/TelAviv
variety of other worldly stalactites, some of them over 300,000 years old. Those
who have an itch for archeology can take part in the Dig-for-a-Day programs in
the untouched extremities of Tel Maresha, the ancestral home of King Herod, at
Beit Guvrin National Park.
Eilat Marine Park
For those with a taste for the extreme, Israel offers a number of challenging
and beautiful hiking, kayaking, biking, rappelling and rock-climbing
opportunities. Overlooking the Sea of Galilee (also known as Lake Kinneret),
the Golan Heights area features some of the most incredible, natural views
of this mountainous seaside region. It is also home to the Gamla Nature
Reserve, the site of the earliest known synagogue in the world. Outfits
such as Israel Extreme offer a variety of tailored tours in Eilat, the Judean
Desert, the Galilee and the Golan Heights, with activities including day-long
climbing, rappelling and swimming adventures in the caves near Jerusalem,
or a breathtaking rappelling tour of the Atek River Canyon. See www.Israel-
Rimonim
Extreme.com for more rates and tour information. Those who enjoy ocean
agent info
GEOLOGICAL TOURISM
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
adventures should check out the Dolphin Reef in Eilat, where visitors can
swim with dolphins in the Red Sea, or paddle around this gorgeous little
cove. Snorkeling and scuba diving outfits abound along the vibrant reef, and
the nearby Underwater Observatory Marine Park offers a great,
family-friendly overview of the lush colors of the Red Sea’s flora and fauna.
The Rimonim Galei Kinnereth and Ruth Rimonim Safed hotels offer getaways
through Feb. 2011. Rimonim Galei Kinnereth is offering deals from $262, including
a 45-minute massage, while Ruth Rimonim Safed’s offer, starting from $226.00,
includes a complimentary upgrade and a 45-minute spa treatment. For details,
contact info@rimonim.com.
www.rimonim.com
Central Holidays
Book early with Central Holidays to save from five to seven percent with full
payments at the time of booking, or save up to $150 per couple for booking with
a deposit of:
• $50 for purchases between $750 and $1,500
• $100 for purchases between $1,501 and $3,000
• $150 for purchases over $3,000
www.centralholidays.com
(Reservations are subject to availability, and minimum stay is required.)
29.8.10
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Another great stop for active tourists is the mountain fortress of Masada,
made famous by the Jewish rebels who held out against the Romans in King
IsramWorld
The only company offering escorted tours seven days a week to Israel
with guaranteed departures and extensions to Egypt, Jordan and
Greece, is IsramWorld. Hosting tours for discerning travelers since 1967,
IsramWorld is now featuring a new and exclusive Elite Israel program.
For more information, call 1-800-223-7460 or visit www.isram.com.
agent info
Whether your clients are eco-tourists, geology buffs, sports enthusiasts or
simply sand-and-surf types, there are countless way to enjoy the great outdoors
in Israel.
aqueduct that once serviced this ancient port city. In the southernmost tip of
the country lies Eilat, a family friendly resort town that hosts most of Israel’s
beachgoers in its numerous high-end and mid-range hotels. Here, visitors
can relax on the pristine sand beaches along the Red Sea, take a camel tour
of the surrounding mountains, or journey over to Jordan to see the ancient
city of Petra, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Spa-seekers and
medical tourists flock to the Dead Sea for its naturally healthful, high-salinity
mineral waters. The shoreline is dotted with tremendous spa-hotels offering
relaxation and restoration with all of the chic comforts a luxury-minded
clientele expects.
agent info
THE BEACHES OF ISRAEL
DISCOVER AND RELAX
RIMONIM HOTELS AND RESORTS
Herod’s former strategic stronghold. Skip the cable car, and take an early
morning climb up the winding Snake Path to catch daybreak at the summit
and panoramic views of the Dead Sea.
Solomon’s Pillars
© Eric Newman
RIMONIM
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18
www.rimonim.com
Rimonim Hotels. The Place to Relax in Israel.
For Reservations Call: 972-3-6754591
Rimonim Galei Kinnereth ■ Ruth Rimonim Safed ■ Rimonim Neve Ativ Holiday Village ■ Rimonim Nazareth ■ Rimonim Optima Ramat-Gan ■ Rimonim Jerusalem ■ Rimonim Eilat ■ Rimonim Marina Club ■ Rimonim Central Park
Israeli Sandstone
outdoor itinerary
HITTING THE TRAIL
One way for visitors to see it all is a hike along the Israel National Trail, a
nearly 580-mile long network of paths that stretches from the Lebanese border
all the way to the Red Sea. Along the way, travelers will see the verdant hills of
the Galilee, the Judean Mountains, the Yatir Forest and the expansive sands of
the Negev Desert, all before reaching the sun-kissed shores of Eilat on the
Red Sea. However, the estimated 30 to 70 days of continuous hiking it takes to
complete the whole thing is beyond the scope of most itineraries. The trail is
broken into 12 parts, each of which could fill up a one-day or two-day adventure
itinerary, a perfect alternative for the time-conscious traveler.
DAY 1
Day 4
Drive through the Negev Desert, stopping at the village of Mitzpe Ramon. After
a quick lunch, check out nearby attractions such as the Makhtesh Ramon, before
heading out to Timna Park for a tour of Solomon’s Pillars and the surrounding
geological phenomena. Overnight in Eilat.
Head northeast to the Golan Heights, for a trek through the Gamla Nature
Reserve. Include a stop at the remains of Gamla’s ancient synagogue, believed
to be one of the oldest in the world. While hiking through the surrounding area,
stop at Nahla Gamla Waterfall and check out the Griffon. After breaking for
lunch in the coastal city of Tiberias, head to the shores of the Sea of Galilee for
a relaxing afternoon. Overnight in Tiberias.
Day 2
Go for a mid-morning swim with the dolphins over at the
Dolphin Reef, before toweling off and heading to the
Underwater Observatory Marine Park. Take a scenic drive
along the coast to find a few excellent spots for snorkeling and
scuba diving. Overnight in Eilat.
Day 3
Take an early morning drive to Tel Aviv, and rent a bike on
Ben Yehuda Street. Take a two-wheeled tour down Rothschild
Boulevard, then pedal over for a coffee break at the famous
Café Tamar on Shenkin Street. Spend a few hours relaxing on
the shore of the Mediterranean Sea before grabbing dinner at any
of the city’s wonderful restaurants. Overnight in Tel Aviv.
Sea of Galilee
You will love Israel from the first Shalom! Beginning with Jerusalem, the jewel in the crown, both modern
and timeless, Jewish, Christian and Islamic at the same time. A perfectly preserved town with more than 4,000 years of
history. Descend to the Dead Sea or climb to the Herodian Fortress of Masada. Discover the remains of ancient synagogues
and churches by the Sea of Galilee. Israel, the holy ground of Judaism, Christianity and Islam.
DISCOVER ISRAEL
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Website: www.centralholidays.com
Prices are per person, land only and are based on double room occupancy. Special airfares are available. Other exclusions and restrictions may apply.
Sunrise in Tel Aviv
art, architecture and music
whose Möbius strip like exterior is a vessel for the work of Israeli architectural
and design students. Perhaps one of the most important of Israel’s museums, the
powerful Yad Vashem Holocaust History Museum is a stunning work of design,
and its galleries feature work by survivors and other artists that approach and
interpret the Holocaust in new and evolving ways. For a comprehensive list of art
museums and galleries throughout Israel, check out www.ilmuseums.com.
The Israeli art world draws on a robust and complex melange of influences,
stylistic languages, subject matter and media.
ARTISTIC ADVENTURES
To get a handle on the breadth and depth of Israeli art past and present, visitors
should check out The Israel Museum perched atop one of Jerusalem’s many
picturesque hills. Recently reopened after a three-year expansion and renovation,
the museum features strong collections of archeological works, fine art, video
art and an excellent exhibit on the Dead Sea Scrolls. In addition to its exhibitions
of international contemporary art, the museum has dedicated galleries
showcasing the work of Israeli artists that reflect the themes and movements
that have defined the country’s identity over the past 100 years. For information
on current and upcoming exhibitions, check out www.english.imjnet.org.il.
Another worthy stop is the Tel Aviv Museum of Art, which boasts one of the
most comprehensive collections of Israeli art as well as an impressive holding
of international works. For those interested in singular collections from some
of Israeli art’s greatest luminaries, check out the Nahum Gutman Art Museum
in Tel Aviv’s trendy Neve Tzedek neighborhood, or the Rubin Museum, a small
collection established in the former home of legendary Israeli painter Reuven
Rubin. In the Tel Aviv suburb of Holon, check out the Design Museum Holon,
Sheraton Tel Aviv Hotel & Towers
Sheraton Tel Aviv is located in the heart of the city overlooking the
Mediterranean Sea. All 313 guest rooms, 24 suites, offer the ultimate in
luxury. Guests staying in the newly renovated Sheraton Towers, located
on the higher floors, can enjoy the Towers Lounge with its new butler
service offering complimentary pressing, newspaper and message
delivery, turndown and more.
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agent info
From the iconic Armenian ceramic tiles commonplace in the markets of
Jerusalem to the groundbreaking work of students at the Bezalel Academy of Art
and Design, the galleries and museums of the busiest cities to the chic grandeur
of Tel Aviv’s Bauhaus architecture, the artisans and artists of Israel all speak the
international language of good design. For audiophiles, there is a wide variety
of jazz, classical and popular music to be heard at the country’s many outdoor
venues and concert halls. Whatever your interest, Israel is a pleasure cruise for
the aesthete, the museumgoer and the music lover.
Tel Aviv Skyline
ARCHITECTURE
Israel excels at blending the new and the old, and nowhere can this refreshing
mix be seen more than in the
architecture of its major
cities.
Walking down the palm
tree-lined center path of
Rothschild Boulevard is a
tour through the tradition of
Bauhaus and International
Style architecture from the
1920s and 1930s. Designated
a World Heritage Site by
UNESCO, these buildings from
the Ahuzat Bayit — or
“Homestead” — period reflect
the uniquely Israeli incorporation
of architectural themes
and features native to the
various countries from which the
country draws its diverse
population. To contextualize a
walking tour, stop by the
Bauhaus Foundation Museum
on Bialik Street, where visitors
can learn about these movements
from within an original Bauhaus
building. A few steps away,
sample a bit of literary
history at Bialik House, the
former residence and current
museum for seminal Israeli
writer Hayim Bialik, whose
poem “To the Bird” moved
many Jews worldwide to
emigrate to Israel. The house
is one of the best examples of
Israeli fondness for art nouveau
and its search for a domestic
cultural aesthetic. Moving deeper
into the heart of the city, the
architecture of the 1960s can
be seen in the Migdal Shalom,
Israel’s first skyscraper and a
central spot where tourists can
take a number of walking tours.
Eilat Princess Hotel
The Eilat Princess Hotel offers guests luxury and relaxation among its
modern architecture and local landscape. Located near the hub of Eilat
entertainment, the resort borders on a private beach. Winter
rates start from $175 per person, with a special discount to travel
agents of 25 percent from November 15, 2010, till March 21, 2011,
excluding Christmas.
www.eilatprincess.com
agent info
A N YW H E R E
agent info
Divided between the Jewish Quarter, Muslim Quarter, Christian Quarter
and the Armenian Quarter, Jerusalem’s Old City gives travelers a sense of
the varied and storied styles that form the architecture of this “golden city,”
so-called because of the pale, yellow limestone brick exteriors of its buildings.
Stand before the Western Wall, one of the holiest sites in Judaism, or pass
through the majesty of the Damascus Gate. Follow the Via Dolorosa, or
Stations of the Cross, that Jesus took before his crucifixion, marveling not
only at the historical path these stations mark, but also the narrow
passageways and domed arches that were the architectural breakthroughs of
their day. Pass alongside the lines of worshipers in the Church of the Holy
Sepulchre, with its ornate décor, brilliant mosaics and mixture of Crusader,
Byzantine and Greek architecture. In the Jewish Quarter, stop by the renovated
Hurva Synagogue, an important temple that was destroyed in the 1948
Arab-Israeli War. En route, get a lesson in Roman city planning as you pass
through the central path, known as the Cardo, which still functions today as a
bustling and lively marketplace.
T H I S
Jerusalem is bursting with historic, architectural and religious sites, so planning
a manageable tour is essential. Fortunately, Israeli guides are well trained and
readily available to help you plan an itinerary that makes sense for your clients.
You’ll have a wealth of options for trips tailored to Christian, Jewish, Muslim or
secular clientele.
WO U L D
J UST
B E
A
L A K E .
SOUNDSCAPES
For those who missed recent concerts by international luminaries such as rap and
R&B star Missy Elliott, metal monster Ozzy Osbourne or soul crooner Seal, there
is a never-ending line-up of high-profile popular artists who grace the stages of
Israel, including the impressive amphitheater at Hayarkon Park, where Madonna
performed last year. Classical music lovers will no doubt thrill at the opportunity
to catch a show at the Jerusalem Center for the Performing Arts, a fourauditorium space that is the home turf of the Jerusalem Symphony Orchestra, or
take in a few performances at the Israel Festival, an annual celebration of music
and performing arts that draws artists from around the world. Dates for 2011 have
been set for May and June, when the Israel Festival celebrates its 50th anniversary.
If opera lovers regret missing the recent premiere of Verdi’s La Traviata at the
Israeli Opera in the Tel Aviv Performing Arts Center, they can look forward to
2011, when the company will stage Aida at the foot of Masada.
Nazarene Tours
Dan Hotels: Golden 7
Nazarene Tours is one of the largest, privately run tour operators in
Israel, holding assets of multilingual staff/guides, over 500 coaches,
plus airport and hotel reps. Offers range from individual, pilgrimage
and historical tours to conference, convention planning and
incentive programs. www.nazarenetours.com
Stay a minimum of seven nights at one of the Dan hotels or at a
combination of any of the 14 hotels, and save 13 percent off the
one-night rate (restrictions apply).
www.danhotels.com
agent info
The building also houses Nahum Gutman’s most famous mosaic murals,
depicting the founding and development of Tel Aviv, and several wonderful
architectural exhibits.
E LS E
Opera , Tel Aviv
BUT
THIS
IS
THE
SEA
OF
GALILEE
From its shores, Jesus of Nazareth delivered the Sermon on the Mount.
Only in Israel can your clients experience the places that make the Bible
stories they grew up with come to life. Only here will they discover that
the history that makes us who we are still lives.
Today:
•More visitors are enjoying Israel in 2010 than ever before: a 34% increase for the January to July period over last year
•More flights are being added by the 5 airlines that fly non-stop from North America to Tel Aviv: Air Canada,
Continental, Delta, El Al and US Airlines
•More hotels across the country, from major chains to luxury boutique hotels, to country B&B’s, are opening
and being upgraded
•National Geographic recently ranked Tel Aviv’s beach as one of the top 10 in the world
There’s a little bit of Israel in all of us. Come find the Israel in you.
24
goisrael.com
art, architecture and music itinerary
DAY 1
Start out with a gallery walk in the port city of Jaffa before making your way
over to the restored Jaffa Train Station for a quick coffee or lemonade. Drive
over to Neve Tzedek for lunch and head to Bialik House and the Nahum Gutman Art Museum. Grab a quick bite at the kiosk that marks the beginning of
Rothschild Boulevard, before taking a long tour of the Bauhaus architecture on
either side of the tree-lined central path. Overnight in Tel Aviv.
Shrine of the Book
Israel Museum, Jerusalem
Day 2
Start the day with a tour of the architectural exhibits and narrative mosaics at
the Migdal Shalom, before moving on to a tour of the Museum of the Jewish
Diaspora at the University of Tel Aviv. After breaking for lunch, make a visit to
the Tel Aviv Museum of Art. Finish the day taking in a show at the Habima National Theatre, where groundbreaking performance pieces are made accessible
to all visitors through simultaneous translation and/or closed captioning.
Day 3
Drive to Jerusalem. Follow the Via Dolorosa, which will take you through a great
deal of the Old City. Make sure to notice the architecture, particularly the painted
black lines that separate the original structure from that which was restored.
Stop for lunch at a hummus restaurant before venturing over to the Church of
the Holy Sepulchre, the Hurva Synagogue and the Western Wall. Overnight in
Jerusalem.
DAY 4
Take an early tour of the Israel Museum, making sure to include the Dead Sea
Scrolls exhibit and well-curated collections of contemporary Israeli art in your
itinerary. Move on to the Yad Vashem Holocaust History Museum. A full visit
requires at least a half-day, and visitors should know that children under 10 years
old are not permitted. Take in an evening show at the Israeli Opera. Overnight in
Jerusalem.
Dan
Hotels
of
Israel
Where pleasure is a way of life
Gorgeous beaches
Thrilling destinations
Endless sunshine
Come discover the ongoing pleasures of an unforgettable vacation
at Israel’s Dan Hotels. With luxury hotels covering the country and
all in prime settings, the Dan Chain is Israel’s premier hospitality
provider, offering welcoming accommodations, fine restaurants,
indoor and outdoor swimming pools, and special activity programs.
Whether it’s the legendary King David in Jerusalem or resort hotels
on the Mediterranean and Red Sea, every Dan hotel is a landmark
destination with a style and personality that reflects the spirit of its
surroundings. And thanks to our wide range of locations, every place
you want to be is practically on the doorstep, giving you endless
options for enjoying the beauty, history and diversity of Israel.
This vacation, indulge yourself at the Dans, where courtesy is genuine,
service knows no bounds, and the welcome is suited to every budget.
www.danhotels.com
For information & reservations, please call your travel agent or
ISRAEL: “Call Dan” Reservation Center: 972-3-5202552
USA: (212) 752-6120 / Toll Free: 800-223-7773/4
King David, Jerusalem
Dan Tel Aviv
Dan Carmel, Haifa
Dan Jerusalem
Dan Eilat
Dan Accadia, Herzliya-on-Sea
Dan Caesarea
Dan Panorama Tel Aviv
Dan Panorama Jerusalem
Dan Panorama Eilat
Dan Boutique, Jerusalem
Dan Gardens Ashkelon
Dan Gardens Haifa
Dan Panorama Haifa
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