Temple Shalom of Central Florida Tour to Israel – March 2027

Activities:

• Bruchim Ha'Baim! - Upon arrival, collect your baggage, and with your group, head to meet your guide and driver.

• Continue to Neot Kedumim - Neot Kedumim is the Biblical Landscape Reserve in Israel which is a unique endeavor to re-create the physical setting of the Bible in all its depth and detail. Neot Kedumim embodies the panorama and power of the landscapes that helped shape the values of the Bible and provided a rich vocabulary for expressing them. (Lunch included.)

• Plant a tree at Neot Kedumim - Participate in this unique experience to help ecologically restore the ancient biblical landscape. Plant an indigenous tree that is suited to the Israeli environment.

• Shehechiyanu on the Haas Promenade - Gather with your guide to say the Shehechiyanu and bless the beginning of your journey together in Israel!

• Take a picture by the Knesset! - The Knesset, Israel's parliament, was named after “Haknesset Hagedolah,” the Great Assembly of the Second Temple period. Today it stands as a symbol of both Jewish sovereignty and dedication to democracy. In lively, often heated, debates, its 120 elected members reflect the divergence of Israeli public opinion, legislate and oversee the workings of the government.

• Arrive at hotel and check in - Freshen up and prepare for dinner

• Dinner at a local restaurant - (TBD)

• Theatron Hotel - The brand new Theatron Hotel offers its guests a meaningful and memorable experience with an authentic Israeli theme, inspired by nature and infused with genuine Jerusalemite hospitality. Theatron caters to sophisticated guests who appreciate authentic and uniquely crafted artistry.

Activities:

• Breakfast at the hotel

• Begin your day at the Davidson Center - Walk through the Southern Wall Archaeological Gardens. Get a glimpse of the glory of the Second Temple, the heart of the ancient Jewish kingdom, and the devastation that followed. Visit the Davidson Visitors' Center and enjoy a modern and interactive virtual presentation. The museum presents a taste of the archaeology of Jerusalem from different eras - covering the First Temple, Second Temple, Byzantine, Islamic, and the Crusades periods.

• Tour the Jewish Quarter of the Old City - The Jewish Quarter is best known for the Western Wall, but there’s a lot more to see and do here. See archaeological finds from the First and Second Temple periods, Roman ruins, vibrant synagogues, and learning institutions, all jostling for space in these busy stone streets. Visit the ancient Cardo and walk through the Old City's narrow streets. At the Kotel, take time for reflection.

• Lunch on your own in the Old City

• The Western Wall Tunnels - Explore what’s under the Muslim Quarter through the Kotel Tunnels Tour. The Western Wall is impressive, but its greatness is truly discovered when you descend underground to the Western Wall Tunnels. The tunnels run along approximately 488 meters (1601ft) of the Western Wall, giving visitors a taste of the challenge that stood before Herod the Great during the biggest of all his immense building projects - the expansion of the Temple Mount.

• Dinner at a local restaurant - (TBD)

• Theatron Hotel

Activities:

• Breakfast at the hotel

• Yad Vashem - Visit the museum at Yad Vashem, Israel’s National Memorial to the Holocaust. Tour this memorial to the darkest moment in the world and Jewish history, its children’s memorial, and exquisite gardens. Yad Vashem is an unforgettable place of tribute and remembrance. You'll be guided by a member of the Yad Vashem staff.

• Mount Herzl - As Israel’s national cemetery, Mount Herzl is the final resting place of leaders of Zionism and Israel, including Yitzhak Rabin and Herzl himself, and of thousands of soldiers killed defending the State of Israel. At Mount Herzl you will find a moving monument to the approximately 28,000 soldiers and civilians killed in combat or by terrorism since the founding of the state.

• Machane Yehuda Market - After a meaningful morning focusing on our past, we will head to the present and experience the vibrant life of Jerusalem in the modern day. In the heart of the city, at a bustling multi-ethnic market bursting with life, enjoy the hustle and bustle with all the rich fragrances, colors, and sounds this iconic Machane Yehuda market offers. Take time to explore and taste something you haven't tried before.

• Time to rest at the hotel

• Dinner on own

• Theatron Hotel

Activities:

• Breakfast at the hotel

• Lifeline for the Old / Yad LaKashish - Yad LaKashish is a non-profit organization empowering and supporting nearly 300 elderly Jerusalem residents on a daily basis by providing them with creative work opportunities in artistic workshops.

• Chagall Windows - Take in the luminous colors and rich Jewish symbolism of the exquisite Chagall stained glass windows in the synagogue of the Hadassah Medical Center in Ein Kerem. The windows illustrate Jacob's blessings to his sons, the patriarchs of the 12 tribes.

• Lunch on your own

• Continue to your hotel - Or free time at the market

• Kabbalat Shabbat and Shabbat Dinner with Har-El Community

• Theatron Hotel

Activities:

• Breakfast at the hotel

• Optional: Shabbat services at a local synagogue

• Walking Tour: Muslim & Christian Quarters - Explore the maze of the Muslim and Christian quarters, meeting people who have lived in the Old City for generations, practicing their crafts and raising their families. Browse the famous Arab shuk (market) in the Muslim quarter. Its many stalls sell spices, pastries, pottery, sheepskin, embroidered clothes and so much more.

• Lunch and afternoon on your own

• Group Havdalah - As the sun sets, come together with your group for Havdalah

• Dinner on your own

• Theatron Hotel

Activities:

• Breakfast at the hotel

• IMPORTANT NOTE!!!! - THE ORIGINAL ITINERARY HEADED NORTH AFTER JERUSALEM.
  SHOULD THE NORTH BE SAFE ENOUGH, CLOSER TO THE TRIP, WE WILL UPDATE THE ITINERARY TO SWAP THE SOUTH FOR THE NORTH.

• Early morning check out and head south

• Ascend (by foot or cable car) to explore Masada - Atop Masada is the scene of the epic stand by Jewish rebels at the end of the Great Revolt against Rome nearly 2,000 years ago. The new museum at the Visitor Center reveals the secrets of the daily life of the rebels, the story of the excavations, and how the site became one of Israel’s most important symbols. (boxed breakfast will be provided)

• Swim in the Dead Sea and have lunch at a local spa hotel - The Dead Sea is the lowest point on earth, a stunning, other-worldly landscape of shimmering blue water ringed by bare, orange and yellow hills. The waters hold a potent solution of minerals and salts that have strong healing properties. Together with its ethereal beauty, these health-giving minerals make the Dead Sea’s beaches and spas popular vacation spots. Have lunch, 'float' in the Dead Sea, and enjoy the spa facilities. (Meal is included)

• Ein Gedi Ancient Synagogue - Nestled among date palms near the Dead Sea, the Ein Gedi Ancient Synagogue offers a fascinating glimpse into Jewish life between the 3rd and 6th centuries CE. Discovered by local farmers and later excavated, the site features a stunning mosaic floor adorned with geometric patterns and inscriptions—reflecting a community deeply rooted in tradition. Unique among ancient synagogues, it includes a mysterious warning not to reveal the town’s secret, adding intrigue to its spiritual and historical significance.

• Continue to your hotel

• Daroma Hotel

Activities:

• Breakfast at the hotel

• Jeep Tour in Mitzpe Ramon - Start at the top of the Atzmaut Ascent, descend into the Makhtesh and cross to Wadi Ramon. Continue to the summit of Mt. Gvanim which offers a stunning view of the entire Makhtesh. From there, ride along Wadi Gvanim, continuing to the Ein Sahronim spring and the nearby Nabatean ruins. During the jeep tour you will have time to hike various parts of the crater.

• Sde Boker Grave of Ben Gurion - Visit the grave of David Ben-Gurion, Israel’s first Prime Minister, and his wife Paula, located near Sde Boker. One of his famous quotes is: "It is in the Negev that the creativity and pioneer vigor of Israel will be tested, and this will be a crucial test" - his vision for settling the desert continues to bloom today. Overlook towards the breathtaking Tzin Valley and the Avdat highlands in the heart of the Negev. Throughout the day, you’ll see his vision come to life.

• Naot Farm - Naot Desert Farm is one of the many havot bodedim (lone farms) in the Negev Desert. The farm was built by Lea and Gadi Nahimov, modern-day pioneers who are making David Ben-Gurion’s vision of the desert blooming come to life. Visit the goats and taste some delicious cheese.

• Time to rest and dinner at the hotel

• Daroma Hotel

Activities:

• Breakfast at the hotel - And check out

• Depart hotel for Gaza Envelope (Otef Aza)

• Gaza Border Lookout and security briefing - Stop at key lookout points for an in-depth discussion of the complexity of the Gaza Border situation.

• Lunch at Osi Lankri Culinary Queen's House in Ofakim - Recognized as one of Ofakim's "Culinary Queens," Osi invites you to savor a home-cooked meal in her beautiful home. While enjoying the culinary experience, listen to her personal stories about life in the Envelope, her birthplace and hometown. Gain insights into how the October 7th attack affected her home, family, and neighborhood.

• Stop at the Nova Festival memorial site - At Re'im Forest stop and bear witness to the tragedy of the Nova Festival.

• Pay Respects at the Sderot Police Station Memorial

• Drive to Tel Aviv - With Dinner at a local restaurant

• Sea Tower by Isrotel

Activities:

• Breakfast at the hotel

• ANU Museum of the Jewish People - The newly re-imagined ANU Museum of the Jewish People tells the story of the Jewish people through the generations and up to the present time. Dive into this dynamic and interactive experience that represents all parts of the Jewish people and highlights the creative works and cultural riches of a variety of communities throughout different periods of history.

• Levinsky Market Tasting Tour lunch - The Levinsky Market specializes in spices and Mediterranean delicacies. It is, in many ways, the best market in Tel Aviv, known for its variety, freshness, and special atmosphere. Whether you are looking for a rare Indian spice or some good quality saffron - this is the place. Shops offer a cornucopia of excellent cheeses, smoked fish, wines, and other delicacies. Tour the market and have "tastings" throughout.

• Visit The Israel Guide Dog Center in Beit Oved

• Old Jaffa - Sunset tour - Explore the enchanting charm of Old Jaffa, where ancient and modern are situated side-by-side and where people of all faiths meet. Jaffa is one of the most ancient port cities in the Mediterranean basin. Visit Jaffa Port, which for centuries was the gateway to the Land of Israel. Today Jaffa is a mixed city, where Jews and Arabs live alongside each other. Tel Aviv, Jaffa's much younger sister, was established centuries later, but the two were united into one municipality already in 1949, yet each part kept its unique feel and atmosphere. visit vibrant artist studios as well as archeological discoveries, while exploring the rich tapestry of cultures and history that defines this timeless Mediterranean gem.

• Sea Tower by Isrotel

Activities:

• Breakfast at the hotel

• 2 options for the day - Option 1 - light touring in Tel Aviv
  Option 2 - day excursion to the north

• Drive north and tour Akko - Explore the enchanting Akko Old City on a historical and cultural tour. The ancient city of Akko is situated on the Mediterranean, is one of the oldest ports in the world, and is a city shared by Jews, Muslims, Christians and even Bahai. Walk narrow streets past towering ramparts, green domes, venerable synagogues, slender Muslim minarets, and secret passageways, visit local artists' studios and meet local vendors. Learn about the city’s ancient history as well as its important role in Israel’s modern history.

• Drive East and stop for a lookout over Lebanon and Syria

• Adir mountain Lebanon lookout

• Tour Safed - Safed, pronounced Tzfat in Hebrew, sits at a higher altitude than any other city in Israel and has been known since the 16th century as a major center of Kabbalah, Jewish mysticism. Tzfat's mystical aura adds to its special status as one of Israel’s four holy cities, along with Jerusalem, Tiberias, and Hebron. The old synagogues, narrow alleyways and artists’ studios add to the hilltop city’s unmistakable charm.

• Farewell dinner at a local restaurant - (TBD)

• Transfer to the airport and Farewell (midnight flights) - We hope to host you again in our beautiful country!

• Overnight in Tel Aviv for those continuing to Petra

• Sea Tower by Isrotel

Activities:

• Early breakfast at the hotel

• Transfer to airport and early flight to Ramon airport

• Transfer to the Arava Border Crossing and drive to Petra - You will be guided through the border crossing by our agent and be greeted on the other side of the border by your Jordanian driver and guide.

• Tour Petra - Visit Jordan's Jewel, The Capital City of the Nabateans, a city fully carved in the rose red stones of Wadi Mousa Mountains. Upon arrival, you will take a horse back ride (optional), walk through the Siq, the only access to this city. Lunch included. Petra is a vast, unique city, carved into the sheer rock face by the Nabataeans, an industrious Arab people who settled here more than 2000 years ago, turning it into an important junction for the silk, spice and other trade routes that linked China, India and southern Arabia with Egypt, Syria, Greece and Rome. Despite successive attempts by the Seleucid king Antigonus, the Roman emperor Pompey and Herod the Great to bring Petra under the control of their respective empires, Petra remained largely in Nabataean hands until around 100AD, when the Romans took over.

• Dinner at the hotel

• Bubble Luxotel Wadi Rum - Bubble tents in Wadi Rum offer immersive stargazing experiences, enveloped by the desert's solitude. Transparent dwellings provide intimate encounters with nature's spectacle beneath Jordan's magnificent, unobstructed night sky

Activities:

• Breakfast at the hotel

• Drive to Wadi Rum - Wadi Rum is a protected desert wilderness in southern Jordan. It features dramatic sandstone mountains like the many-domed Jebel Um Ishrin, and natural arches such as Burdah Rock Bridge. Many prehistoric inscriptions and carvings line rocky caverns and steep chasms, such as Khazali Canyon.

• Return to Israel through Arava Border Crossing and transfer to airport

• Flight to Ben Gurion Airport - And continue to a hotel outside on Tel Aviv

• Tel Aviv Area hotel

Activities:

• Breakfast at the hotel

• Enjoy a day of leisure to explore and enjoy Tel Aviv on your own - Some suggestions for your day:
  - Surfing lesson.
  - Bike tour along the beach promenade.
  - The ANU Museum of the Jewish People.
  - The Peres Center for Peace and Innovation.
  - Art workshops such as an upcycling creative workshop in Jaffa.
  Please note: on this day guide, transportation, and activities are not included. We will be happy to add and make reservations upon request.

• Drive to the airport

• Farewell - We hope to host you again in our beautiful country!