Best of Israel

Best of Israel

Date, 2025
Optional Jordan Extension
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Join this Unforgettable Israel Tour

Dear Friends:

Please consider joining me for my 2025 trip to the Holy Land. This is a trip that has been a long time in the making. Now it’s official—we’re going! Whether you’ve been to Israel before or this would be your first time, I would love for you to be part of this trip.

My friends at Rishon World Tours have Holy Land travel down to a science. They have arranged deluxe motor coaches, wonderful hotels, delicious meals, and a daily itinerary that takes in all that our minds and hearts can absorb. They even offer different levels of accommodation based on your travel preferences and budget.

Please ask the Lord to show you if it’s His will for you to be part of this life-changing experience. If it is, then make your reservation and get your name on the list. And if there’s someone you know who might be interested, give them a call and ask them to join us.

Gratefully,

Rich Jones, President

Rishon World Tours

Best of Israel Tours will bring the Bible to life. Walk where Jesus walked. Those who travel through Israel will never read their Bible the same again! 

Join us for an unforgettable trip of a lifetime. 

November 3-4, 2025

Depart from your Local Airport and arrive in Israel

Depart your local international airport and arrive in Tel Aviv, Israel. Make sure to get some rest on the flight because soon you will be walking where our Savior walked!

Enjoy a short bus ride to Grande Beach Hotel in Tel Aviv. Enjoy a relaxing evening walking on the beach and a nice dinner. 

November 4, 2025

Arrive in Israel

Arrive in Israel where we will meet our guide and travel to our hotel for one night. 

November 5 , 2025

Caesarea, Mount Carmel, Megiddo, Nazareth Village, Mount Precipice Overlook.

we will travel along the Mediterranean coast to Caesarea, where Gentiles first heard the Gospel from Peter and were baptized. We will see the Roman Amphitheatre, the Hippodrome, and Aqueduct before we continue our journey to Mt. Carmel, where the prophet Elijah defeated the priests of Baal. Next we will journey through the Jezreel Valley to Megiddo, the Armageddon battlefield, where archeologists have unearthed twenty levels of civilization. We will lodge the next three nights in Galilee.

November 5, 2025

Tel Dan, Caesarea Philippi, Magdala, Baptism at Yardenit

we will journey to Caesarea Philippi, the place of Peter’s Confession and pagan worship. From there we will travel to Dan, where the children of Israel fell into the depths of alternative sacrifice. We will cap our tour day with a bonfire and worship by the Sea of Galilee.

date, 2025

Jordan River Baptism Site, Beit Shean, & the Dead Sea

We will begin our day with an opportunity to be baptized at the baptismal site of the Jordan River. Next we will travel south to Beit Shean/Scythopolis, one of the most magnificent archeological sites in Israel, located at the strategic juncture of the Jezreel and Jordan valleys. Like Jericho, it has been almost continuously occupied throughout history. After defeating Saul and his sons on Mt. Gilboa, the Philistines hanged their bodies on the walls of Beit Shean. During the time of Jesus, Scythopolis was one of the chief cities of the Decapolis—a league of ten cities sharing Greek culture and government. Following the fertile Jordan Valley southward, our guide will point out the agricultural restoration of the “Land of Milk and Honey” and Israel’s intricate irrigation development. We will pass ancient Jericho and view from a distance this city famed as the oldest in the world. To the east of Jericho along the Jordan River Valley (Qasr El Yahud) is the Israeli side of Bethany Beyond the Jordan. There, Jesus Christ was baptized by John the Baptist, Elijah and Elisha crossed the Jordan, and the children of Israel entered the Promised Land under the leadership of Joshua. Afterward, we will proceed to the final destination of our tour day and the place where we will lodge for the night, the Dead Sea—the lowest place on earth. Spend time in the special spa and enjoy a dip in the Dead Sea for a relaxing float before dinner.

date, 2025

Masada, Ein Gedi, & Free Time at the Dead Sea

Our day begins with a cable car ride to the mountain top fortress of Masada. Here our guide will share with us the history behind the famous zealots’ last stand. From Masada, we will drive to Ein Gedi, “Spring of the Goat,” an oasis on the western shore of the Dead Sea. Because of its warm climate and plentiful water supply, the site developed a reputation for its fragrant plants and date palm groves. This is the place where David hid from King Saul and where God defeated Israel’s enemies while King Jehoshaphat led Israel in praise and worship. Afterwards, we will enjoy some free time followed by one more relaxing evening together by the Dead Sea.

date, 2025

Qumran, Genesis Land, the Mount of Olives , & Bethany

After breakfast we will travel to Qumran, the site where the famous Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered in 1947. Then we will make our way to the heart of the Judean desert, the land where the Patriarchs lived, to visit Genesis Land. There we will experience life as it was in biblical times, enjoy a wonderful lunch, and even ride a camel (if you wish). Next we will drive to Jerusalem and view the Holy City from the Mount of Olives. There we will be blessed to hear a devotional teaching about the significance the Mount of Olives in Jesus’ day and also when Jesus returns. Afterwards, we will travel to Bethany, the home of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus. It was there that Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead.

date, 2025

Israel Museum, Temple Mount, Western Wall, Southern Steps, City of David, Hezekiah’s Tunnel, & the Pool of Siloam

An educational and interesting time awaits us today at the Israel Museum. Walk through collections of ancient Israeli artifacts including the Dead Sea Scrolls along with a guided walk through an accurately detailed model of biblical Jerusalem from the Second Temple Period. Then, conditions permitting, we will visit the Temple Mount, with commentary on the Temple Periods, and the variety of belief systems past and present that make this area so valuable. From there we will walk to the Western Wall and then to the Rabbinical Tunnels which lead us through the Second Temple Era. The tunnel and exhibit will give us a clear understanding of the amazing

construction of the Temple Mount; giant stones, water supply, and the Roman road where Jesus was led to judgment. Before exiting the tunnel, we see the immense cornerstone rejected by the builders. Then, we will visit the Southern Wall excavations. This southern side of The Temple was the main entrance for the common people of Jesus’ day, whereas the Priests and Levites had their own entrance from the higher eastern side. Parts of the giant stairs which led to the Temple Mount from the courtyard have been unearthed along with the purification pools. From here Jesus entered the Temple Mount and drove out the vendors and money exchangers who were exploiting the people. It is also considered the place where Peter stood and proclaimed the Good News and thousands were saved and baptized on the Day of Pentecost.

We will follow our guide to a view of the city from the hillside overlooking Jerusalem and the Gehenna Valley. This meaningful teaching time will unite the many things that we have seen to date. We will continue our sightseeing just outside the Dung Gate on the southeastern hill below the Temple Mount in the City of David. It was during the time of Solomon that the city limits extended past this part of Jerusalem. We visit Gihon Springs, the original water source for Jerusalem, view new excavations including a typical Israelite four-room house, and the lower city wall. A highlight will be a water walk through the incredible Hezekiah’s Tunnel to the pool of Siloam, the place of Jesus’ miracle in John 9. Those who choose to do so, may walk through the sewer tunnel from the City of David into the Old City area.

date, 2025

Shepherd’s Fields, Palm Sunday Road, Garden of Gethsemane, & the Upper Room

Our day begins with a cable car ride to the mountain top fortress of Masada. Here our guide will share with us the history behind the famous zealots’ last stand. From Masada, we will drive to Ein Gedi, “Spring of the Goat,” an oasis on the western shore of the Dead Sea. Because of its warm climate and plentiful water supply, the site developed a reputation for its fragrant plants and date palm groves. This is the place where David hid from King Saul and where God defeated Israel’s enemies while King Jehoshaphat led Israel in praise and worship. Afterwards, we will enjoy some free time followed by one more relaxing evening together by the Dead Sea.

date, 2025

House of Caiaphas, Via Dolorosa, Church of the Holy Sepulcher, Pool of Bethesda, St. Anne’s Church, the Garden Tomb

After breakfast, we begin our last day in Israel with a visit to the House of Caiaphas, the place where Jesus was beaten and spat upon. We will view a pit where He may have been held for the evening and the ancient hillside steps He walked as He was taken to be condemned. While walking along the Via Dolorosa, we will be reminded of Jesus’ way of suffering. We will then visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Our guide will explain the differing opinions on the route that Christ was led, the actual place of the crucifixion and burial is a very interesting study. Next, we visit the Pool of Bethesda and St. Ann’s Church. Make sure to bring your singing voices to experience the acoustics at St. Ann’s Church. The highlight of the day will be a visit to the area of Golgotha (Place of the Skull) and the Garden Tomb, where we will celebrate the resurrection with communion and a time of praise. There will be some free time for shopping or exploration in Jerusalem.

Optional Jordan Extension

Date 2025

Jordan - Day 1

Welcome to Jordan!

We cross from Israel to Jordan. We travel to Jerash, one of the best preserved and most complete provincial Roman cities. Jerash, Gerasa of Roman Times, was one of the cities of the Decapolis, a confederation of ten Graco-Roman cities dating from the First Century BC situated in Jordan, Syria, and Israel. Known as the Pompeii of the East for its extraordinary state of preservation, the ruins indicate human occupations at this location for more than 2,500 years. We travel to Amman to visit the old Roman Citadel and the Archeological Museum.  Overnight in Amman.

 

Sites you’ll see include:

Date 2025

Jordan - Day 2

Today we travel south towards Petra. Our first stop today will be at the hilltop palace/fortress of Machaerus, where John the Baptist was killed. We arrive at the amazing mountain fortress of Petra. This is known to be inhabited by the Edomites, descendants of Esau. Begin the tour with a walk through the “Siq,” an immense crack in the Nabatean sandstone, to the city of Petra carved out of the rose red rock. The Treasury, El Khazneh, is one of the most elegant remains of antiquity. Beyond El Khazneh we are surrounded on both sides by hundreds of Petra’s carved and built structures. Overnight in Petra.

Date 2025

Jordan - Day 3

Our morning tour begins in the town of Madaba, the biblical Medeba, 30km south of Amman. Madaba is best known for its Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics and at the Greek Orthodox church of St. George, we view the earliest surviving mosaic map of the Holy Land. Mount Nebo, believed to be the site of the tomb of Moses, commands a spectacular view across the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea. Study the panorama as we read the Scripture of God showing Moses the “Promised Land” before He brought him to heaven. As we travel west toward the Allenby Bridge, we view to the north the Plains of  Moab, the area where the tribes of Israel camped before crossing the Jordan and picture the place where Jesus was baptized. Crossing the Jordan River into Israel, we have dinner at a local restaurant and then transfer to the Tel Aviv Airport.

Date 2025

Depart for Home

A very early morning departure for the Tel  Aviv Airport for our flight homeward.

 

Join this Unforgettable Best of Israel Tour
Tour Pricing (based on double occupancy)
Starting at
Israel Tour and Flight
$3,125
Tour only per Person
$4,625
From Portland (PDX) per Person
$4,625
Other Cities (request pricing) per Person
$***
Seat Upgrade (request pricing) per Person
Optional Jordan Extension (based on double occupancy)
Starting at
Jordan Extension
$995
Optional Jordan Extension per Person
Optional Single Supplement (for solo travelers)
Starting at
Single Supplement
$200
Israel Tour
$130
Optional Jordan Extension
Optional Travel Insurance
Starting at
Travel Insurance
Per Quote
Allianz Group Advantage Plan*
Per Quote
Allianz Classic Plan** with cancel anytime
*
Pricing varies by state
**
Pricing varies by state and age of applicant, cancel at any time - up to 80% of trip cost, must be purchased within 14 days of deposit.

Israel Land Tour 

Included:

Roundtrip airfare from Portland including current air taxes and fuel surcharges (taxes and fuel charges are subject to change), 9 nights lodging at 4-star hotels, breakfast and dinner daily, farewell dinner, 2 lunches, full-time English speaking tour escorts, services of air conditioned deluxe motor coach, all guides, tips,
entrances, touring and transportation as appears on itinerary, baggage handling at hotels (one piece).

NOT Included:

Personal expenses, lunches and drinks, optional payment processing Visa or MasterCard (+3%), optional group travel insurance “Cancel for any Reason” travel insurance policy quotes are available by request – must be purchased within 14 days of deposit.)

Jordan Extension

Included:

NOT Included:

Join this Unforgettable Best of Israel Tour

Additional Tour Options

Please review the following options. You will be able to select your options during the online booking process. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions.

Optional Jordan Extension: cost $695 per person.

Included with Jordan extension:

NOT Included with Jordan extension:

The Best of Israel Tour does not include flights. However, Rishon Tours is available to make your flight arrangements if you would like. This service is available upon request for a service fee of $75 for economy class seats. 

If you book your own flights, depart from your airport on DATE, 2025, to arrive in Tel Aviv, Israel (TVL) in the afternoon of Date, 2025. The tour ends in Tel Aviv so please make sure that your flight home also leaves from Tel Aviv, Israel (TVL).

If you select the optional Jordan extension, you will still depart from Tel Aviv, Israel (TVL). 

Please send your flight itinerary to info@rishontours.com and we will make arrangements for transfers from the Tel Aviv airport to our hotel on DATE, 2025, and a transfer to the Tel Aviv airport at the end of the tour.

The Best of Israel Tour pricing is based on double occupancy. If you are traveling solo or do not have a roommate, a “single supplement” fee will be added to your account in the booking process.

The single supplement fee is based on the accommodations you select.:

Israel Land Tour: $300

Jordan Extension – $130

Travel insurance is highly recommended. Please see “Should I Purchase Travel Insurance” on the Resources page for a great article on the importance of purchasing travel insurance.

An Allianz group travel insurance policy is available to purchase in the booking process. Pricing is based on the overall trip cost (including the cost of flights). Please click on the link below to download the policy details according to your state of residence. 

Individual travel insurance policies are also available, such as the “Classic Plan – with Cancel Anytime” provision. Rates must be quoted as they are based on age and state of residency. Please indicate if you would like a quote during the online booking process.

Allianz Classic Plan -with Cancel Anytime provision must be purchased within 14 days of initial deposit.

Israel - Walk in the Footsteps of Christ

A journey to Israel is truly a trip of a lifetime. Pastors and leaders who bring their groups to Israel often say, “Visit the biblical sites in Israel and you will never read your Bible the same ever again.” And it’s true. Pastor Justin will bring the Word of God to life as he teaches devotionals and biblical messages from some of the key biblical sites on your journey. 

Biblical Sites

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Join this Best of Israel Tour

Israel Tour Important Information

Please review the following frequently asked questions (FAQs). Feel free to contact us if you should have any questions.

Cancellation in writing must be received by Rishon World Tours 91 days prior to departure for refund of deposit minus service fees. Airline penalties are not part of the percentages below and vary based on the airline policy at the time of ticket issue.
91+ Days Prior: $100 Per Person Service Fee
90-61 Days Prior: Deposit Amount
60-46 Days Prior: 40% of tour cost lost
45-31 Days Prior: 65% of tour cost lost
30-8 Days Prior: 85% of tour cost lost
7 Days Prior or less: 100% of tour cost lost.
Travel insurance is non-refundable.

Rest assured that tips for drivers, guides, and hotel staff are included in your tour price. Even the daily gratuity charge onboard the Island Princess Cruise ship is included.

However, if you opt to dine onboard at a specialty restaurant, or order drinks or other extras, tips may be added to your ship account which you need to pay before disembarking at the end of the cruise portion of the journey.

In addition, some travelers want to give extra tips to a beloved guide or driver and that would certainly be welcome.

Covid-19 vaccinations are not be required for any part of the tour. You will not be asked to provide evidence of vaccination. 

Visitors to Israel do not need to obtain visas to enter as a tourist as you are staying less than 90 days. 

The amount of cash you will need will vary depending on your appetite for shopping. It’s a trip of a lifetime and you’ll no doubt want to bring home some mementos of the journey. Most shops and stores will accept credit cards and the exchange rate should be favorable. 

However, you might want to bring cash for any meals that are not included in the tour. Typical lunches could be $15-20 per person.

Walking will be part of the tour and we encourage each traveler to be able to walk at least a mile and be able to climb stairs when needed. 

Tour participation is available to all travelers, however, and will not be withheld if the tour operator can furnish the requirements that an individual may need.

Because most of our Tour sightseeing schedules require tour members to walk 1-2 miles at a time using a moderate pace and sometimes navigate uneven terrain, we cannot accept persons who cannot do so and instead require special assistance. Should any Tour Member’s participation somehow materially add to the tour operator’s cost, the Tour Member will be expected to pay any additional costs. The Tour Director retains the right to require any non-sufficiently mobile persons to stay behind when deemed necessary.

The Mediterranean climate during the fall is often excellent. This is a great time of year to take an Israel Tour as it will not be nearly as warm as during the summer months.

Below is a checklist to help you pack to make your travel experience exceptional. 

Packing Checklist

  • Casual and comfortable clothes including pants, jeans, shorts, T-shirts, collared shirts or blouses
  • Light sweater or jacket
  • Bathing suit and a cover-up or wrap if you would like to use the pools on the ship
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen
  • Toiletries, in a sealed, clear bag inside your luggage
  • Medications in their original containers
  • Small bag or backpack for port days
  • Passport with separate photocopy

Packing Tips

Do not pack your passport or travel documents in your luggage. Mark your luggage and carry-on bag with your name and address so you can distinguish them easily. We recommend you also put identification information—name, address, and phone number—INSIDE your luggage in case the luggage tags are lost in transit. We suggest keeping your essential toiletries and a one-day change of clothes in your carry-on.  Keep a color copy of the information page of your passport inside your luggage in case your passport is lost.

Dress Code for Holy Sites

Visitors should dress modestly and respectfully. Some guidelines include:
  • Women: Should cover their shoulders and wear long pants or a long skirt. Some say women should also cover their knees and chest. If their attire is considered immodest, they may be asked to cover up or denied entry.
  • Men: Should not wear shorts.

Many excursions are included with your tour. There will be times when you will be able to explore on your own. 

If you would like to arrive a day or more early to explore on your own, Rishon Tours would be happy to make the arrangements for you. Please send us an email at info@rishontours.com and we’ll work with you to customize your pre-trip experience. 

If you would like to stay in Israel or Jordan for an extra day or more to explore on your own, we would be more than willing to make the arrangements, book your hotel, etc. Just let us know by email at info@rishontours.com. We are here to serve you.

The short answer is yes. If you need to cancel your reservation and would like to transfer your reservation to a different cruise or tour with Rishon Tours, we will do our best to accommodate your request. 

Let’s explore how to effectively use your cell phone internationally, ensuring you stay connected and make the most of your travel experience.

Check with Your Service Provider

Before embarking on your journey, it’s essential to contact your service provider to inquire about international roaming plans. Many mobile carriers offer special packages tailored to international travelers. These plans usually include data, call, and text allowances for a fixed fee. Make sure to understand the details, costs, and coverage of the plan before making a decision.

Unlocking Your Phone

If you have a locked phone, you might not be able to use a local SIM card while traveling. Unlocking your phone is the process of removing carrier restrictions, allowing you to use SIM cards from different providers. Contact your service provider to inquire about unlocking options or consider third-party services.

Purchase a Local SIM Card

One of the most cost-effective ways to stay connected while abroad is to purchase a local SIM card. This allows you to have a local phone number, access local networks, and enjoy cheaper rates for calls, texts, and data. Ensure your phone is unlocked before purchasing a SIM card, and don’t forget to save or transfer important contacts and data before switching.

Wi-Fi Connectivity

Utilizing Wi-Fi is an excellent way to reduce data usage and stay connected for free. Most hotels, cafes, and public spaces offer Wi-Fi hotspots that allow you to make calls, send messages, and browse the internet. Remember to exercise caution when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks by using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) for added security.

Messaging and Calling Apps

Take advantage of messaging and calling apps, such as WhatsApp, Viber, or Skype, to send messages, make calls, and share media with your contacts. These apps use internet-based communication, allowing you to avoid expensive international roaming charges. Ensure that the people you want to connect with also have the same app installed.

Data Usage Tips

Using data while traveling can quickly consume your phone’s battery and incur high charges. To minimize data usage, consider the following tips:

Disable automatic updates for apps.

Turn off push notifications for email and social media apps.

Download maps and travel guides before leaving your accommodation and use them offline.

Use offline navigation apps like Google Maps Offline, Maps.me, or CityMaps2Go.

Conclusion:

Staying connected while traveling internationally doesn’t have to be stressful or costly. By planning ahead, understanding your mobile carrier’s international plans, unlocking your phone, and utilizing local SIM cards, Wi-Fi, messaging apps, and data-saving techniques, you can make the most of your cell phone without breaking the bank. Remember, staying connected is important, but don’t forget to take some time to unplug and enjoy the destination you’re exploring. Safe travels!

Traveling to other parts of the world on a Best of Israel Tour is an exceptional experience that offers you both fun and the opportunity to become spiritually inspired. While you’re traveling with Rishon Tours, we want to make your journey as carefree as possible by covering most of the tips and gratuities on your tour. 

Tips to porters, hotel bellman, drivers and your tour guides are all included. If you visit various restaurants apart from the tour, however, remember to acknowledge and reward excellent service.

In most parts of the world, the general guideline for restaurant service workers is 10-12% of the bill and 15% to acknowledge excellent service.