PRE-TOUR “Passion Play” Option (July 18-21st):

Price for “Passion Play” Option: $1,500 

(Includes 3 night’s deluxe Hotel, Play Tickets, in country transportation, 2 meals daily—not included; international flight, lunches) 

Itinerary for Passion Play Option:

Day 1-2 (Mon/Tues July 18—19th): FLY to GERMANY

Today we fly from our home city to Germany. When we arrive we will go directly to our hotel and sleep. 

Day 3 (Wed July 20th): OBERAMMERGAU PASSION PLAY 2020

Today we will enjoy participating in the historic and memorable Oberammergau Passion Play. The idea for this historic play began in 1633 in the midst of the Thirty Years’ War after months of suffering and dying from the plague. The people of Oberammergau pledged to act out the play of the suffering, death and resurrection of our Lord, Jesus Christ once every 10 years. At Whitsun in 1634, the citizens of Oberammergau, Germany fulfilled their promise for the first time. By the middle of the 18th century, spectators from all over Germany came to Oberammergau attracted by the great power and atmosphere of the play. The year 2020 will see the 42nd instalment of the play that the citizens of Oberammergau have maintained through the centuries with unique continuity. In a five-hour-performance, more than 2000 participants bring the story of Jesus of Nazareth to the impressive open-air stage of the Passion Play Theatre. Almost half of Oberammergau’s population will devotedly act out the story of the man whose tidings for more than 2000 years have brought hope and power of life to an incredible number of people. We overnight in the area.

Day 4 (Thurs July 21st): GERMANY 

Today we will explore some of the beautiful sites in Germany! (More details to follow). 

Day 5 (Fri July 22nd): FLY FROM GERMANY to Tel Aviv

Today we fly from Germany (or the if not participating in the Passion Play from USA or country of origin) to TLV. When we arrive we will go directly to the Mount of Olives for a view of ‘the Golden City’. We overnight in Jerusalem where our hotel is only steps away from the Old City (see below).

Price for Israel Tour: $3,495 

(Included: flight from Germany, hotels, in country transportation, entrance fees, guides—Not included are: lunches and flight from USA or country of origin)

Israel Itinerary:

Day 1-2 (Thurs & Fri July 21-22nd): FLY to TLV  

Today we fly from the USA to Tel Aviv. When we arrive we will go directly to the Mount of Olives for a view of ‘the Golden City’. We overnight in Jerusalem.

Day 3 (Sat July 23rd): JERUSALEM CENTER/(BETHESDA)  

This morning we enjoy Church Services at the remarkable BYU Jerusalem Center for Near Eastern Studies. The view of Jerusalem during our Service is inspiring. On our way to lunch we will wander down the Mt. of Olives and pass thousands of Jewish graves, including those of the Biblical Prophets; Haggai, Zechariah, & Malachi. We make a brief stop at the ‘Teardrop Church’ and then enjoy lunch in a unique local place near the Old City. We will then visit St. Anne’s which is the ancient site for the Pool of Bethesda. As we make our way back to the hotel we will be introduced to the shopkeeper that makes LDS scripture covers, necklaces, etc. and after dinner those interested can peruse olive wood carvings from the shopkeepers who have been making LDS Olive Wood pieces for over 30 years. We enjoy a relaxed evening and overnight in Jerusalem. 

Day 4 (Sun July 24th): BEGINNINGS: BETHLEHEM  

Our morning begins with a visit to the place where Jews believe is the Center of the Universe and where the Spirit of the Lord resides with a visit to the Tunnels at the Western Wall and the Temple Mount. We view the Dome of the Rock, the Wailing Wall, etc. and discuss the past, present and future of that significant site for all three major religions: Jews, Muslims, & Christians. Next we will visit the unique historical museums in Jerusalem. The Israeli Museum displays the Dead Sea Scrolls and also features the very impressive miniature model of the city of Jerusalem in Christ’s day; The Model City. We conclude our museum visits with the sobering Holocaust Museum, Yad Vashem. Time permitting we will enjoy the sights and sounds of Jerusalem by walking on the Old City Walls of Jerusalem on the Rampart. Next we will cross through ‘The Wall’ (20’ cement wall that separates Israel and Palestinian controlled land) and visit the traditional birthplace of the Savior in Bethlehem (Church of the Nativity). We conclude our day by visiting a local Shepherds’ Field near Bethlehem where we will review the account of the humble beginnings of the Saviors Life. In this setting we will review the Saviors Birth as well as consider Jesus as the ‘Good Shepherd’. We again overnight in Jerusalem. 

Day 5 (Mon July 25th): JESUS/MARY AS A TEENAGERS

Today we consider Jesus and Mary during their teenage years as we visit Nazareth and the surrounding areas. We will drive up north and our first stop features the beautiful Mediterranean Sea and represents the spot where the first Gentile convert joined the Church and the Gospel spread to the world. Paul was imprisoned for 2 years here and also departed for his 4 historic missionary journeys. We will view the ancient theater and aqueducts before making our way north to Mount Carmel. On Mt. Carmel is a great view of the Jezreel Valley (Valley of Armageddon). From this vantage point we will discuss Armageddon, the 2nd Coming and the future of this Holy Land as well as reenact the remarkable story of Elijah and the Priests of Baal. Following lunch, near Carmel, we travel to Nazareth and from Mount Precipice we will have an amazing view of Nazareth, Mt Tabor and the surrounding area. We then drive around the Sea of Galilee to our Hotel. Checking into our Hotel this evening is a joy. Every room is only steps away from the shore of the Sea of Galilee. This evening you can enjoy a quiet, relaxing evening strolling on the Sea shores, or taking a dip in the Sea, etc.

Day 6 (Tues July 26th): JESUS’ MINISTRY: GALILEE  

Today we explore the Galilee area where Jesus spent most of His ministry. We begin by boarding a small fishing boat and exploring the Sea of Galilee as we cross to Capernaum. On our way we cut the engines & review some of the scriptural accounts that take place on the Sea. On shore we visit Capernaum which He called ‘His own City’ as well as the Mount of Beatitudes where the Sermon on the Mount was delivered. For lunch those interested can have St. Peter’s Fish from the Sea! This afternoon we’ll visit Peter’s Primacy where the historic conversation took place between the resurrected Jesus and Peter in John 21. Our final site of the day will be a visit to Magdala (birthplace of Mary Magdalene) where there is a brand new church with stunning murals and a portion of the Church dedicated to Women in Jesus Life. Our final stop of the day will be the traditional site of Jesus Baptism at Yardenit at the Jordan River. We again enjoy another relaxing evening by the Sea of Galilee. 

Day 7 (Wed July 27th): JESUS’ MINISTRY: GALILEE

Today we explore more of the Galilee area where Jesus spent the majority of His ministry as well as some other significant scriptural sites. We begin with a beautiful view of the Sea by taking a short hike to Mt Arbel. From here you can view the entire area. Next we will drive to the very north border of Israel where we will look over into Lebanon and Syria. We will enjoy a short nature hike to view the ancient city and alter at Tel Dan. Our next stop is at Banias, the ancient site of Caesarea Philippi where Peter is declares as ‘the Rock’. As we bus our way home we will travel on the Golan Heights where we can look over into Syria. From here we also have a great view of Mt. Hermon (Mount of Transfiguration) and will reflect on the remarkable experiences there! This evening will be our final opportunity to enjoy the evening views of the Sea of Galilee and surrounding cities at night. 

Day 8 (Thurs July 28th): JESUS’ FINAL DAYS

Today we visit and consider the events leading up to the death of the Savior and the final days of His mortal ministry. As we make our way back to Jerusalem we pass through the Green Line and parts of the West Bank and will take this opportunity to discuss the current political situation, borders, and history. As we pass Bet She’an we will consider the ‘Fall of Saul’. We drive by Jericho and then make a stop at the Jordan River (Children of Israel River Crossing and Jesus’ baptismal site). Following lunch we will enjoy a quick visit to Qumran (discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls) and also have the unique experience of taking a float in the Dead Sea. You cannot sink! From here we make our way up to Jerusalem. We will visit Bethany and Lazarus’ Tomb and conclude our day with a unique walk through the flowing waters in Hezekiah’s Tunnel. We overnight in Jerusalem.

Day 9 (Fri July 29th): JESUS’ FINAL HOURS

Today is one of our most significant as we venture through the wonders of the ‘Eternal City’ and retrace the events and sites of the final moments of the Saviors Life! We begin in the Upper Room where the Savior held the Last Supper. From here we trace His steps to the Garden of Gethsemane (Church of all Nations). We next visit Caiaphas’ Palace (St. Peter of Gallicantu) where Jesus went before the Sanhedrin and where Peter allegedly denied Christ thrice. Following lunch we enjoy a stop at the Antonio Fortress (Jesus before Pilate) and from here we will follow the Via Dolorosa (or Path of Suffering), the path Jesus carried His cross to Golgotha. Next we will reflect on the burial & resurrection of the Savior as we visit the two possible sites for Golgotha & Calvary. First we visit the Church of the Holy Sepulcher [believed site for many Christians] and then the Garden Tomb [where others feel is the true site]. We will discuss the crucifixion and resurrection of the Savior and the majesty of the final moments of His mortal ministry! This evening those interested will view how the orthodox Jews bring in the Sabbath at the Western Wall. We overnight in Jerusalem.

Day 10 (Sat July 30th):  MASADA / PETRA

Today we conclude our Jerusalem and New Testament portion of our tour and consider the Me…Here…Now of all we have experienced. From the Mt of Olives Jesus officially concludes His mortal ministry on that continent (Acts 1) and fittingly we will in similar fashion conclude ours as well. Those continuing on will head southward and begin the Book of Mormon/Old Testament focus and portion of our tour while the others will make their way to the airport and begin their journey home.   

Day 11 (Sun July 31st): FLY HOME!

Those returning home will be reunited with their loved ones. 

Jordan Option:  $980

Day 10 (Sat July 30th): BofM BEGINNINGS

Following our Mt of Olives visit those continuing on into Jordan and Egypt will depart Jerusalem and go ‘down by the borders near the shore of the Red Sea’ (1 Nephi 2:5) just as Lehi and his family. As we do so we will be traveling on the road from ‘Jerusalem to Jericho’ and will reflect on a certain parable (Luke 10). On the way we pass Qumran (discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls) and stop for a picture of the natural spring and waterfall at Ein-Gedi (where David hid from King Saul) and where we most always see ibex. We visit the majestic Masada and gondola to the top and reflect on its remarkable story. On our way to the Israeli/Jordanian border we enjoy a brief stop at Timnah where we will view a replica of the ancient Tabernacle built by Moses in the wilderness. We will also discuss Sodom & Gomorrah as we drive through that remains of those ancient cities. We cross the border and make our way up to the fascinating city of Petra, Jordan where we will overnight.

Day 11 (Sun July 31st):PETRA, JORDAN (World Wonder)

This morning we explore Petra, one of the newly voted “7 Wonders of the World.” We will walk down the narrow canyon to the breathtaking view of the Treasury, Petra’s most famous landmark. You will have time to visit this fascinating city carved from the cliffs of the canyon and experience some of the best ruins found anywhere in the world. Petra was once a great commercial empire with a long history, it is best known today as the lost city in the Indiana Jones Movie, The Last Crusade. Following lunch we will venture out into the wilderness and enjoy a Jeep Safari ride into the beautiful desert and conclude the experience by spending the night in tents in Wadi Rum where we overnight. 

Day 12 (Mon Aug 1st): EGYPT: SINAI

Those not participating in the Egypt Option will take a shuttle up to the airport in Amman, Jordan and begin their journey home!

Those continuing on to the Egypt portion of the tour will cross 2 borders and make their way down to St. Catherine’s in Egypt. We will orient ourselves to our current surroundings (Red Sea) and review the account of the Exodus as we bus our way through the Sinai to our Hotel (Morganland Village) which is near the base of “Mt. Moses”. We will enjoy a relaxing evening reviewing the scriptural account of Moses and the Children of Israel in preparation for our climb up the ancient temple….Mt Sinai.

EGYPT Option:  $2,250

Day 13 (Tues Aug 2nd):  MT. SINAI / RED SEA

We arise very early and enjoy a moonlight hike up Mount Sinai (Camels are available for those interested in the adventure). On top we will enjoy the sunrise and a very special meeting before making our descent. Once off the mountain we will bus our way to one of the very best locations for snorkeling and deep sea diving in the world…Sharm El Sheikh (Ras Mohammed). Arriving at this luxurious resort is a very welcomed experience following our early morning hike. We will enjoy all the amenities and comfort of this 5-star resort for the next day and a half. There will time for deep sea diving, snorkeling, swimming, reading, spa treatments, relaxing, etc. We overnight in Sharm. 

Day 14 (Wed Aug 3rd): RED SEA

This morning we will continue to enjoy the Red Sea. Those who desire can enjoy some of the world’s best snorkeling & deep sea diving and those who are not interested in getting in the water can relax at the resort hotel which has several beautiful pools, a lazy river, spa options, para-sailing, boat adventures, etc. This afternoon those interested can participate in a 4 wheeling experience in the Sinai desert. Other options include a visit to Naama Bay for some shopping and night life, or one can enjoy retiring early and other various options at the resort. We once again overnight in Sharm.

Day 15 (Thurs Aug 4th): LUXOR TEMPLES  

This morning we take a short flight from Sharm to Luxor. We will first enjoy lunch and then begin our exploration of Luxor where over 60% of the world’s ancient ruins are located. Today we will explore the sites on the East Bank of the river Nile. Our first site is one of the 7 Wonders of the Ancient World and is also one of the largest temple structures in the world; the Karnak Temple. You will truly be amazed at this 64 acre temple. Following dinner we will enjoy an evening visit to the impressive Luxor Temple. These structures are amazing and must be seen to be believed. You might even enjoy these experiences more than the Pyramids in Cairo! We overnight in Luxor.

Day 16 (Fri Aug 5th): LUXOR: VALLEY OF KINGS

This morning we will explore the sites on the West Bank where we will visit one of the most intriguing spots in the world; the “Valley of the Kings” (burial spot for the Egyptian Pharaohs & Queens). You will marvel at the similarities in Egyptian and LDS beliefs and rituals! We will next take pictures of the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, the Collosi of Memnon & Nobels as well as Pit Tomb #33 where the Book of Abraham in the Pearl of Great Price was discovered. We will next explore the Temple of Ramses III. Alabaster is mined near Luxor and we will visit a shop that specializes in hand carving alabaster items. This evening we will take a short flight to Cairo and overnight.

Day 17 (Sat Aug 6th): PYRAMIDS & SPHINX

Today we enjoy a full day touring the sites in Cairo! We begin with the splendor of the famous Pyramids & Sphinx. Those interested can go inside the Pyramid as well as take a camel ride (these have a small extra cost). From here we will make a visit to the Egyptian Museum and explore all the unique items there (including a Rosetta Stone replica and the opportunity to view real live mummies as well as King Tut items). This afternoon we will visit one of the largest mosques in the world; the Mohamed Ali Mosque. This evening we will enjoy our ‘last supper’ together with a short program followed by a short rest in our hotel rooms before making our way to the airport to begin our journey home.

Day 18 (Sun Aug 7th): FLY HOME 

Today we arrive at our homes and will be reunited with our loved ones!

COSTS AND DETAILS

PRICE for Israel Portion: $3,495 per person double occupancy

[These prices include all visas, fuel surcharges, 2 meals daily, entrance fees and transportation, service materials and tools. Not included would be lunches and airfare to and from Tel Aviv]

DEPOSIT REQUIRED: $500 per person.

ROOMMATES: Those traveling SOLO may sign up for accommodations on a share basis and will be assigned roommates as circumstances permit. If a roommate is unavailable, the participant will be notified of the adjusted price for single supplement prior to departure.

CANCELLATION FEES: A $50 fee will be charged by International Travel Studies LLC for all cancellations until 60 days prior to departure, at which time the fee will be $100. In addition, all cancellation charges imposed by airlines, hotels, vendors, operators, etc., will be passed on to the participant.

TOUR INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING:

§ First-class, top quality Tour with experienced Tour Directors

§ All airline travel mentioned in the program (which includes all 3 in country flights in Egypt but does NOT include the international flight). If you would like us to help you arrange your international flights to Tel Aviv which is a free service we provide and also includes Travel Insurance in the price of the airline ticket. We can add the international flight to your total amount due.

§ Private, deluxe Air-Conditioned Motor Coach

§ Hotel Accommodations 

§ Cold Bottled Water will be available for purchase on board bus

§ Two Meals Daily (breakfast and lunch or dinner) as indicated in the detailed itinerary

§ All Admission and Entrance Fees to sites specified in the itinerary

§ Country Visas, Airport as well as other Departure Taxes

REGISTRATION, DEPOSIT, PAYMENT, AND CANCELLATION:

Early reservations are strongly recommended, and a Deposit of $500 per person is required at the time of booking, with the remaining balance due 60 days prior to departure. Applications received after this date should include full payment. Any payments made after this date should also include also include full payment. Any payments made 30 days prior to departure must be in the form of a money order. Checks should be made payable to International Travel Studies . All cancellation penalties are the responsibility of the participant.

Please send check payment and names of participants to:

(other payment methods available & details given upon registration and/or request)

International Travel Studies LLC

8661 Millpond PL 

Riverside, CA 92508

OTHER ITEMS & DETAILS

Good Health is encouraged for our Israel Tours!

ITEMS NOT INCLUDED IN TOUR PRICE:

Items of a personal nature, such as souvenirs; excess baggage or portage charges; personal, trip, or baggage insurance; room service; laundry; phone charges; food or beverages not part of the group menu; gratuities for special services; expenses incurred on personal activities not included where group participation is not specified in the itinerary; international flight to TLV is not included but we are more than able to assist in arranging flights.

CURRENT PASSPORT REQUIRED FOR THIS TOUR

This unique Tour is designed for anyone desiring to have an in depth experience in the Holy Land and registration will be on a first come basis. It is also serving a dual purpose for those with interest in becoming a Director for our iTs and Gather-NOW programs and any of our future Youth Programs to the Holy Land. This trip serves as Step 1 in our  Faculty Training Program . Those participating with that goal in mind will also enroll and participate in our Pre-Tour Curriculum & Preparation Course.

Those NOT interested in this training are welcome to participate in this tour. It just means you will get a more detailed and in depth exploration of the Holy Land. :) 

Please indicate on your Registration Form if you desire to participate in our Faculty Training Program . 

We look forward to exploring the Holy Land with you!