Compare Gay Travel Israel Pride and Heritage Cultural Tour by HE Travel vs Jordan & Israel in 12 days - Hashemite Kingdom & Holy Land Highlights - Superior by Exoticca

Day 1: Arrival in Tel Aviv

Upon arrival at Ben Gurion Airport, half-way between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, you will be met and assisted by our local partners for your transfer to our beachside hotel in Tel Aviv. Tonight we will enjoy a welcome dinner where you can meet the other tour members. We will also provide all participants with a list of optional places to visit tonight, if you still have the energy to go out on the town.

Days 2-3: Old Jaffa and New Tel Aviv

On our first full day in Israel, we’ll explore the vibrant coastal city of Tel Aviv together, including the old port of Jaffa and the Bauhaus-inspired new city of Tel Aviv. One memorable sight is Independence Hall on Rothchild Blvd, where David Ben Gurion declared Israel’s independence in 1948.

Along the way we will visit Neve Tsedek, the first Jewish neighborhood in the northern area of Jaffa, which today is a cultural and entertainment center. Another stop will be Old Jaffa, now home to many art galleries, but the most important port in ancient times. Through this port the cedars from Lebanon were imported for use in building Solomon’s Temple in Jerusalem.

Because this day falls on the weekend day of Friday, the outdoor arts and crafts market is open, and Rothschild Blvd will be packed with shoppers. Nightlife should also be quite festive!

On the morning of our second full day in Tel Aviv, you have a choice. We offer an optional tour to Bethlehem, including round-trip transportation from Tel Aviv, assistance with the border crossing, and visits to the Church of the Nativity and Manger Square, an overview of Shepherd Field, and a short stop at a souvenir shop. Those not going to Bethlehem can join our guide for a Tel Aviv walking tour, after which you’ll have a free afternoon to visit the gay beach (just a 5 minute walk) or cultural institutions such as the Diaspora Museum at the University of Tel Aviv. This museum illustrates the life of the Jews in different communities around the world during 2000 years of exile. During our time in Tel Aviv and/or Jerusalem, we will meet with representatives from Israel’s LGBT community to learn more about their lives and accomplishments in creating marriage rights and other achievements in this highly religious but diverse land.

Day 4: Haifa and Caesarea

We start our day by driving north along the coast of the Mediterranean Sea to the well-preserved port city of Caesarea, the city that King Herod dedicated to Caesar Augustus more than 2,000 years ago. Among other sites that are still standing are a Roman amphitheatre and aqueduct.

We will take a panoramic drive through Haifa, including a visit to the newly renovated Baha’i Temple with its golden dome and Persian gardens. Time permitting, we will also pause at the ancient city of Akko, before heading east toward the Sea of Galilee.

Along the way, we will pass the surprisingly lush green hillsides of the region called Galilee, as we drive through Tiberias, and alongside the Sea (a large lake). Our home for the next two nights will be in the comfortable, modern guesthouse of a Kibbutz in the thin finger of Israel between Lebanon and Syria.

Day 5: The Galilee and the Golan Heights

During our one full day in the north, we’ll take a jeep ride to the Golan Heights, and visit the Banias, also known by its Roman name of Caesarea Philippi, the major source of water for the Jordan River. We’ll continue across the Golan Heights to visit the ancient synagogue at Katzrin and discuss the strategic value of this controversial region while viewing the Sea of Galilee to the west and Syria to the east. Enjoy a stop for wine tasting at one of the emerging boutique wineries in the region, before returning to our kibbutz for one more night. Time permitting, during our stay in the Galilee we’ll visit the picturesque town of Rosh Pina, and we’ll drive by the holy city of Safed, birthplace of the Kabbalah, with its ancient synagogues and its contemporary artists’ colony.

Day 6: On to Jerusalem!

Today we drive south through the Jordan Valley, from Israel’s northeastern tip toward Jerusalem. Along the way we will drive by Gilboa, where King Saul and his son Jonathan were killed and where David wrote his famous poetic legacy to his lover. We will also pass the modern Palestinian West Bank city of Jericho.

One of today’s highlights will be a visit to Beit Shean, one of the most magnificent archaeological sites in Israel, located at the strategic juncture of the Jezreel and Jordan Valleys. Like Jericho, it has been almost continuously inhabited throughout history.

We’ll start our exploration of Jerusalem with a panoramic overview from the Mount of Olives, which lies across an ancient valley from the Old City. Once we arrive at our deluxe hotel just outside the city walls, the rest of the evening will be free to start your exploration of this unique city.

Day 7: Jerusalem: Old & New

Following is a summary of our exploration of both ancient and modern Jerusalem. Please note that this schedule may change based on local conditions, but we plan to offer all of these activities.

Our appreciation of the historic Old City of Jerusalem will include visiting elements of all four quarters: the Jewish, Arab, Christian and Armenian sections. To put the city in perspective, we’ll start our tour with an overview at the David Citadel Museum at Jaffa Gate. Highlights of our Jerusalem touring will be our visits to King David’s Tomb and the Room of the Last Supper. We’ll also enjoy the recently opened Davidson Center with its 3-D reality program that makes the local archaeological sites come alive.

Of course, we’ll also visit the Western Wall, the Southern Excavations, and the Broad Wall, and explore the Jewish Quarter. There will be a visit to the home of the Kathros Family, better known as the Burnt House. The Kathros Family were residents of Jerusalem during the first century AD, when this entire quarter of Jerusalem was burned in the year 70 AD. After lunch on your own, we head on to the Christian Quarter for a walk on a portion of the Via Dolorosa and into the Church of the Holy Sephulchre, which is jointly maintained by six different Christian denominations.

No visit to the old city of Jerusalem would be complete without a visit to the Arab market to test your negotiating skills with the local merchants. As you make your way towards the Jaffa Gate, walk by the Citadel of David. Don’t forget to pay your respects at the two almost forgotten tombs on your right – those of the architects of the Old City Walls. They were killed by the Ottoman sultan Suleiman the Magnificent in 1538, since they were the only people who knew all of the “secrets of the wall.”

Today we will also head outside the walls to visit Yad Vashem, Israel’s recently renovated memorial to the Holocaust Victims.

During our tour we will learn more about the latest walls to surround Jerusalem, Israel’s controversial Security Barrier. We will gain insights as to why some Israeli’s credit this wall for a significant reduction in violence against Israeli Jews, and why the Wall is viewed by others as a deep insult against Israel’s Palestinian community.

For our farewell dinner in Jerusalem tonight we will invite some members of the local LGBT community to get their perspective on daily life in Israel today.

Day 8: Masada and the Dead Sea

We depart Jerusalem with one last look at the Old City from Mount Scopus, home of Hebrew University.

Then we head east across the desert to begin our exploration of the Judean Desert and the Dead Sea. We will stop at Masada, where we will ascend to the top via a cable car. This mountaintop fortress is best-known for the long siege of a small band of martyrs who were trapped there by Roman soldiers. However, it was originally built by King Herod, and still retains colorful elements of his royal rooms.

After touring Masada, we slow down our busy touring schedule with lunch at a hotel overlooking the Dead Sea. There will be time for an enjoyable “swim/float” in the world famous rejuvenating waters of the Dead Sea. The water is so salty that it is actually easier to float than to try to swim! And because the Dead Sea is over 1000 feet below sea level, the distance from the sun, combined with the ambiance of the air, makes it almost impossible to get a sun burn.

We finish the day with a drive across the width of Israel from the Dead Sea coast to the Mediterranean coast, where we’ll spend our last tour night at our waterfront hotel in Tel Aviv. You’ll be just a short distance from the city’s vast expanse of beach, and the active nightlife of this vibrant capital city, particularly lively on a Thursday night, the start of the weekend in Israel.

Day 9: Tel Aviv Pride Festival

Today we participate in Tel Aviv Pride, marching together down to the seashore and along the promenade to enjoy the warm spirit of the local gay community.

Day 10: Departure Day or Start Jordan Extension

Today is a day at leisure to relax, recuperate and enjoy a sunny day in Tel Aviv before your flight home, or the start of some extra days in Israel. (The transfer from Tel Aviv to Ben Gurion International Airport is included in the tour fee if you depart on the last tour day or arrange an extended stay with us).

Or you can join us for a rewarding extension to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, including Amman and the memorable archaeological site at Petra. In 2007 Petra was selected in a worldwide Internet vote as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World

Day 1: US - Night on board

Ready to discover the cultural treasures of Jordan? Arrive at your US departure airport to board a flight to Amman.* Night on board. * If either your outbound or inbound flights depart in the early hours (before 4:00 a.m.) you must arrive at the airport the night before the indicated departure day.

Day 2: Amman

Touch down in Amman and transfer to your hotel.* Amman is the modern capital of Jordan but possesses dozens of ancient historical sites, set into the hillside in northern Jordan. Spend the remainder of the day at your leisure. Alternatively, if you arrive early in the day, why not take an optional city tour to get to know the most emblematic sights in the city? ** Dinner and overnight stay in Amman.**** Possibility of booking early check-in in the next step of the booking process.*Optional Amman City Tour with Dinner: Explore Amman this afternoon, the capital of the Hashemite Kingdom founded 7000 years ago. See the city's most emblematic sights including Amman Citadel, Hercules Temple, the Byzantine Church and the Ummayad Palace and pay a visit to the fascinating Amman Archaeological Museum. Head downtown to see the incredible Roman Amphitheatre and the old markets before exploring the newer part of the city. End the tour with an authentic Jordanian dinner at a local restaurant. *** Please note: If you arrive at the hotel after 9:00 p.m, dinner will not be included. Instead, you will have the option to reserve a cold packed dinner for an additional charge in the next step of the booking process.

Day 3: Amman - Jerash - Ajloun Castle - Amman

Breakfast at the hotel. Begin the day with a brief city tour of Amman. See both the new and old parts of the city on a panoramic bus ride. Afterwards, continue to Jerash, known as the 'Pompeii of the East'. Inhabited since the Bronze Age, this amazing Greco-Roman city is the best-preserved example of Roman-era ruins in Jordan. See the impressive Hadrian's Arch, the Hippodrome, the Temple of Artemis and the Roman Theatre, among other highlights, as you explore this amazing archaeological site. Next, continue to Ajloun Castle, built by Saladin in the 12th-century. One of the most amazing castles in the Middle East, here you can soak up the fabulous views of the Dead Sea from its hilltop vantage point. Return to Amman and enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure. Dinner and overnight stay in Amman.

Day 4: Amman - Desert Castles - Dead Sea - Amman

Breakfast at the hotel. Head east today to discover the Desert Castles of Azraq, Kharanah and Amra. Dating from the early Islamic era, the castles were built as retreats for the Caliphs of the time. Explore these historic fortresses and learn more about the history of 7th-century Jordan. Afterwards, continue to the eternal Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth at an amazing 400-meters below sea level! Take in the spectacular views before enjoying some free time to relax, swim and float in the salty waters! The mineral-rich mud is said to be therapeutic so be sure to treat your skin to a little indulgence! Return to Amman after an action-packed day. Dinner and overnight stay in Amman.

Day 5: Amman - Madaba - Mount Nebo - Shobak Castle - Petra

Breakfast at the hotel. Set off for Madaba this morning to see the oldest mosaic map in the world, housed within the historic St. George Church. Continue to Mount Nebo, overlooking the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea. Believed to be the place where Moses was granted a view of the Promised Land and later buried, take in the spectacular views of this sacred place. Next, drive to the fascinating Shobak Castle, a Crusader Castle dating back to 1115. At the end of the visit, head to Petra and check in at the hotel. Spend the evening at your leisure, ready to discover the ancient city in the morning! If you can't wait, we recommend an optional Petra by Night excursion!* Dinner and overnight stay in Petra. *Optional Petra By Night Excursion: Savour the opportunity to discover the legendary sights of Petra by night! Walk along the Siq Gorge before arriving at the iconic Treasury to admire its legendary candlelit facade. A spectacular sight!

Day 6: Petra

Breakfast at the hotel. Spend today exploring the famed Nabatean capital with an excursion to Petra! During the visit, discover the most important and representative monuments, sculpted into the rock by this ancient civilization. Admire the Treasury, the famous and most internationally recognised monument, as seen in one of the Indiana Jones films and other highlights, such as the Colored Tombs and the Royal Tombs. Let your imagination run wild as you learn about life here in ancient times. Petra is one of those places in the world that you must visit at least once in your life! A true wonder of the world, enjoy an unforgettable day exploring this bucket-list site. At the end of the visit, return to the hotel. Dinner and overnight stay in Petra.

Day 7: Petra - Little Petra - Wadi Rum

Breakfast at the hotel. Today, head to a lesser-known site named Little Petra, located north of Petra. A narrow gorge of 2 meters wide, this rocky landscape is adorned with typical Nabatean architecture, making this one of the most unique sites in the country. Originally, Little Petra was inhabited by the Nabateans and is home to a number of tombs, water tanks and riverbeds. Next, continue to beautiful Wadi Rum, the desert made famous by Lawrence of Arabia. Take a 4x4 excursion across the lunar-like landscape for an unforgettable experience. We recommend an optional Stargazing Excursion to discover the secrets of the night's sky!* Dinner under the stars and overnight at the camp in Wadi Rum. *Optional Wadi Rum Stargazing Experience: Discover the secrets of the night's sky! Head to an area without light pollution and enjoy a 20-minute presentation before viewing the incredible star constellations with the help of telescopes. This excursion is weather dependent.

Day 8: Wadi Rum - Amman

Breakfast at the camp. At the indicated time, return to Amman and spend the rest of the day at your leisure, soaking up the culture and atmosphere of the Jordanian capital. Dinner and overnight stay in Amman.

Day 9: Amman - Tel Aviv - Jerusalem

Breakfast at the hotel.* It's time to leave Jordan behind as you head for Israel. At the indicated time, transfer to the airport to catch the flight to Tel Aviv. Touch down in Tel Aviv and transfer to Jerusalem, one of the oldest cities in the world and a place of immense religious importance for three major religions: Islam, Judaism and Christianity. Transfer to the hotel and spend the remainder of the day exploring the historic streets of this ancient city. Overnight stay in Jerusalem. * Depending on the return flight schedule and the hotel breakfast service, you may not be able to enjoy the included breakfast.

Day 10: Jerusalem

Breakfast at the hotel. Today, discover Jerusalem's immortal Old City with a tour of the most revered sights. See the Aqsa Mosque and the golden Dome of the Rock before visiting the Western Wall and the area around Temple Mount, prominent sites in both Judaism and Islam. Appreciate the colourful bazaars along the city streets. Walk along the Via Dolorosa and the Stations of the Cross, before reaching the sacred Church of the Holy Sepulchre, thought to be the site of Christ's death, burial and resurrection. Spend some time exploring the old city at your leisure. Around every turn, you'll find priceless historic sites. Take the opportunity to soak up the diverse atmosphere or perhaps dine on delicious Israeli cuisine! Overnight stay in Jerusalem.

Day 11: Jerusalem - Tel Aviv

Breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy some free time this morning to explore at your own pace or take an optional excursion.* Later in the day, transfer to Tel Aviv, on Israel's Mediterranean Coast. Known for its striking Bauhaus architecture and cosmopolitan atmosphere, visiting Tel Aviv allows visitors to experience the modern face of Israel. Transfer to the hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure, strolling along the beachfront promenade or diving into the city's rich gastronomic scene. Overnight stay in Tel Aviv. Please note: you will only be able to choose 1 of the optional activities available on this day. * Optional Half-Day Excursion to the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem: Discover the birthplace of Jesus Christ as you walk through historic Manger Square to visit the Church of the Nativity, the oldest church in the country. Explore the Grotto of the Nativity to see the spot where Jesus was born before visiting the nearby Church of Milk Grotto. * Optional Half-Day Dead Sea Excursion: Journey through the Judean desert to visit the Dead Sea. Float, relax and experience the salty waters of this legendary body of water and take the opportunity to cover your skin in mineral-rich Dead Sea mud at Kalia Beach. Stop at a Dead Sea cosmetics shop included. * Optional Jerusalem New City Tour: Visit the cultural sights of the newer part of Jerusalem city. Explore the Israeli Museum, home of the famous Dead Sea Scrolls and visit the neighborhood of Ein Karem, the birthplace of John the Baptist, to discover the historic Church of Saint John.

Day 12: Tel Aviv

Breakfast at the hotel. Spend the morning at your leisure, with the option to take an exciting tour of historic Jaffa and Tel Aviv!* Alternatively, explore the city at your own pace, perhaps enjoying the delicious flavours of Carmel Food Market or visiting Tel Aviv Museum of Art. Overnight stay in Tel Aviv. * Optional Tour of Tel Aviv Jaffa: Enjoy the freedom of two wheels as you discover Jaffa and Tel Aviv. Begin in Jaffa, riding along the coastal promenade to see the home of former Israeli Prime Minister, Ben Gurion. See Rabin Square and Rothschild Avenue before visiting the Hall of Independence. Return to Jaffa, through the charming streets of Neve Tzedek to end the tour. Duration: 2 hours.

Day 13: Tel Aviv - US

Breakfast at the hotel.* It's time to bring your journey through Jordan and Israel to an end. At the indicated time, transfer to the airport to catch your own flight back to the US. Arrive in the US and end your trip. * Depending on the return flight schedule and the hotel breakfast service, you may not be able to enjoy the included breakfast on the last day.