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2011 3-Day Jerusalem Extension
Double Occupancy: $1,858 (Jan & Feb 2011); $2,098 (Oct 2011)
Single Occupancy: $2,408 (Jan & Feb 2011); $2,802 (Oct 2011)
Day 15
Dead Sea / Jerusalem
After breakfast at the Jordan Valley Marriott, we cross the Allenby Bridge, known to the Jordanians as the King Hussein Bridge, en route to Israel. Specially arranged VIP custom and immigration clearance ensures expedited service at the border. Drive to Masada, a historic desert fortress overlooking the Dead Sea. It was here, at this fortified position originally constructed for himself by Herod the Great, that a reported 960 Jews committed mass suicide rather than be taken as slaves by the Romans during the first Jewish-Roman War in 72 AD. After lunch, continue toward Jerusalem, where we stay at the David Citadel Hotel. (B,L)
Day 16
Jerusalem
Spend a full day touring Jerusalem — exploring one of history’s most important cities. A sacred place for Jews, Christians and Muslims alike, Jerusalem has been at the very center of civilization for thousands of years. Visit the City of David, originally built by King David more than 3,000 years ago as a capital for the tribes of Israel. From there we journey to the Western Wall, or Wailing Wall, dating to 19 BC. After stopping at the Mount of Olives, walk the Via Dolorosa, the path taken by Jesus to his crucifixion. See Damascus Gate and the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, said to encompass both the sites of Calvary, where Jesus was crucified, and the site of Jesus’ tomb. Also spend time at the Siebenberg House, where the proprietor Theo Siebenberg, excavator and curator of the area discovered amazing relics from old Jerusalem just beneath his house. This private collection comprises artifacts from the First and Second Temple and Byzantine Periods, displayed in their original settings. (B,L)
Day 17
Jerusalem / Bethlehem
We begin our Jerusalem tour day at the Israel Museum to see the Shrine of the Book, housing the Dead Sea Scrolls found in Qumran, and to see the model of Jerusalem during the late Second Temple period. Next, journey to Bethlehem and visit the Church of the Nativity, traditionally believed to be the birthplace of Jesus. The Church of the Nativity is one of the oldest continually operating Christian churches in the world. Enjoy a farewell dinner at the historic American Colony Hotel. This hotel, housed in a 19th century palace near Old Jerusalem, has long been viewed as a neutral oasis in this divided community. (B,L,D)
Day 18
Jerusalem / Tel Aviv / U.S
After breakfast, prepare for your flights home. Transfer to the Tel Aviv airport, where we meet our flights to the U.S. (B, Meals Aloft)
Please Note: This extension will be escorted by local guides only.
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