An invitation From Davey Blackburn . . .
It was in Israel 6 months after my late wife, Amanda, passed away that God met me in some profound ways to ultimately heal my heart and put me on a pathway of finding purpose in my pain. Now I want to share those experiences with you in the very locations they occurred!
Imagine walking the footsteps of Jesus along with other people trying to navigate their valleys in a God-honoring way. On this trip you'll hear inspiring biblical teaching, make incredible memories with new friends, and learn historical and cultural references that transform the Bible from black and white into color.
I’d love to take you to the places these truths and more healed my heart and gave me a renewed purpose in my pain. I’d love to help God’s Word come to life for you in the very places the events of the Bible took place. Will you join us on the trip?
$3005
Land Only Fare
($500 Deposit needed to secure spot)
TRIP ITINERARY
DAY 1&2
Monday May 29 -
Tuesday May 30
Depart from U.S. and arrive in Tel Aviv. Tour group will be met at airport and assisted with arrival procedures. Dinner and overnight beside the beautiful Mediterranean Sea.
DAY 3
Wednesday May 31
Today we depart for the Galilee enjoying stops at the extensive ruins of Caesarea, an ancient port city, built by King Herod and later becoming the seat of government of the Roman governors, and where Peter proclaimed the Good News to the Roman centurion (Acts 9 & 25). We continue to Megiddo (the valley of Armageddon) and then to Mt. Carmel, where Elijah prayed, and God defeated 450 prophets of Baal with fire from heaven (1 Kings 18). We end our journey at “Nazareth Village”– a re-created village offering detailed explanation of what life was like during the time of Jesus. Dinner and overnight in Tiberias on the Sea of Galilee.
DAY 4
Thursday June 1
Following breakfast, travel north into the Golan Heights along the Banias River to the ancient site of Caesarea Philippi (Banias), where Jesus asked His disciples “who do men say that I am?” (Mark 8: 27-30). We soon enjoy a short hike through the beautiful nature reserve of Tel Dan (named for the tribe of Dan) where we will see the Israelite Gate (Ruth 4:1-2) and the remains of this 4000-year old ancient city including the ritual site which recalls the sacrifice of golden calves during the reign of Jeroboam (1 Kings 12:28-30). Ending our hike, we will see the well-preserved Canaanite- era gate made of mud. Heading back to the Sea of Galilee area, we will enjoy time at Capernaum (Mark 1: 31-38), the base of Jesus’ early ministry, the home of Peter, and the site of many healings. A short drive then takes us to the Mt. of Beatitudes to enjoy time for spiritual reflection and meditation as we reflect on Jesus’ teachings from the Sermon on the Mount (Matt. 5: 1-15). Next, we will board a replica “Jesus Boat”, a fishing boat of the kind used by the disciples of Jesus, for a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee. We end our day with a baptism in the Jordan River at Yardenit. Return to the hotel for dinner and overnight.
DAY 5
Friday June 2
We start our journey to Jerusalem with a brief stop at Beit She’an, one of the best-preserved Decapolis Roman cities. In Beit She’an, the bodies of King Saul and his sons were hung from the city walls (1 Samuel 31:10-12) after the Philistines defeated them. From here we head to Jericho to see the Mt. of Temptation Monastery from a lookout point. Then we drive to the Bethany Beyond the Jordan, for a short visit to see the location tradition holds is where Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist. This is the site where tradition holds Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist. We soon ascend to the majestic city of Jerusalem for dinner and overnight.
DAY 6
Saturday June 3
We begin our day on the beautiful Mt. of Olives to behold the breathtaking panorama of the Holy City. Our pilgrimage will proceed down the Palm Sunday Road to the Garden of Gethsemane with its ancient olive grove, and the Church of All Nations, where tradition holds that Jesus prayed on the night of His betrayal (Matt. 26:36, John 18:1). Entering the Old City of Jerusalem through the Zion Gate, we walk to the most holy site of the Jewish people, the Western (Wailing) Wall of Herod’s temple. Beyond the wall lies the 35-acre temple area purchased by King David (2 Samuel. 24:18-25). On this site now stands the golden Dome of the Rock (the third holiest shrine in all Islam) and the El-Aksa Mosque. From the temple area, we make our way along the Via Dolorosa (Way of the Cross) the road which Jesus walked after being sentenced by Pontius Pilate– including stops at St. Anne’s Crusader Church and the Pools of Bethesda, where Jesus healed a paralytic (John 5:1-15), the Pavement, where Jesus stood while being tried by Pilate, Ecce Homo Arch, and the ancient Cardo-reaching the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, traditional site of the crucifixion and burial of Jesus. We end our day with a visit to Bethlehem visiting the Church of the Nativity-the birthplace of our Lord and Shepherd’s Field, where the angel of the Lord proclaimed the Good News of the birth of the Savior (Luke 2:8-18). Dinner and overnight in Jerusalem.
DAY 7
Sunday June 4
Leaving Jerusalem this morning, we meander through the Judean desert and along the western shore of the Dead Sea. Our first visit is Masada, the fortress built by King Herod and site of the last Jewish resistance against the Romans in 73 AD. Ascending Masada by cable car, we will be able to survey the ruins of the fortifications, waterworks, synagogue, temples and palaces. We enjoy a short stop at lovely Ein Gedi, the desert oasis where David hid from King Saul (1 Sam.24: 1-7). We continue on to visit Qumran, where the Dead Sea scrolls were written over 2000 years ago and discovered in 1947. We conclude the day with a relaxing float in the healing waters of the Dead Sea (the lowest spot on earth). **Please be sure to bring water shoes, as the bottom surface can be rough, swimsuit, and a towel from hotel. Dinner and overnight in Jerusalem.
DAY 8
Monday June 5
We begin our full day of touring at the City of David to see the archeological remains of David’s period and that of the Kings of Judah (2 Samuel 5: 8-10). We will have the opportunity to walk through Hezekiah’s Tunnel, the 2,700-year old tunnel dug during the reign of King Hezekiah (2 Chron. 32:30) and remaining as one of the wonders of early engineering. The tunnel ends at the Pool of Siloam where Jesus healed the blind man. *A flashlight and good water shoes will be helpful should you choose to walk through Hezekiah’s tunnel. Next, we drive to the Israel Museum to visit the Shrine of the Book, where the Dead Sea Scrolls are displayed. Additionally, the 1:50 scale model of Jerusalem, as the city would have appeared in Jesus’ time, will fascinate you! Afterwards we visit Golgotha and the Garden Tomb for a time of quiet reflection, worship, and communion. Following our visit to the Garden Tomb, we return to the hotel for a relaxing afternoon. Farewell dinner and overnight in hotel.
DAY 9
Tuesday June 6
We check out of the hotel following breakfast and transfer to the airport for our return flight to the USA.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Who can attend this trip?
This trip is open to anyone! We have people from all over the world joining us in Israel for this. You’ll fly out of whatever airport is most convenient for you and meet the group in Tel Aviv, Israel. From there we will do the entire excursion together until it’s time for us all to go our separate ways after nine days of memory-making. It’s going to be a life-changing and monumental event you will never forget! We hope you can make it!
What company is organizing the trip?
Faith Based Expeditions organizes all of the administrative details of the trip. All travel accommodations, arrangements, and payments are made through FBE. They provide an expert guide that will lead us through the entire trip and give us historical and religious context for each location we visit. At most of the locations Davey Blackburn will teach profound Biblical truths and that will inspire and encourage you.
Is it safe to travel to and around Israel?
No one can totally guarantee your safety however, we do all that we can to keep our travelers safe and out of harms way. Faith Based Expeditions does business in foreign countries using only licensed, respected, reliable, and experienced destination management companies who are committed to safety and quality. We maintain ongoing personal relationships with these companies to ensure the highest quality of tour guides, private motor coaches, and accommodations. In Israel, our tours do not go into Gaza or Hebron. We do go into some parts of the West Bank, such as Bethlehem and Jericho. If there is local unrest or an occurrence that renders the safety of our travelers questionable, our local guides will eliminate that from the itinerary and see that our travelers remain safe and out of harms way. Security on planes bound for the Middle East is much more strict than domestic and even some international air travel. Please be aware when flying into and out of Middle East countries that security personnel may question each traveler separately and extensively regarding the nature of travel, who packed your bag(s), who you are traveling with, and if you know anyone in the Middle East. Additionally, luggage is x-rayed and examined. Understand that these precautions are for YOUR safety and this process requires patience and understanding.
Should I purchase the land-only fare or the full package?
People choose to take different routes with how they want to purchase their trip package. Many people opt to let FBE organize arrange the entire trip for them including airline tickets. Some, however, choose to find their own deals with airline tickets and only purchase the “Land Only” option. All of those arrangements can be made with FBE. To ensure your proper shuttle service to and from the airport in Tel Aviv, please be sure to send your complete flight itinerary to FBE upon purchase.
If I am not traveling with the group, how do I get to and from the airport?
Ground transfer is arranged by Faith Based Expeditions no matter what time you arrive or depart. However, for this to be arranged, you MUST provide Faith Based Expeditions with your COMPLETE flight schedule.
Do I need a Passport? Visa?
Yes, you need a Passport to travel out of the country. It must be valid for minimum of 6 months after your return date. Passport Cards ARE NOT sufficient! If a Visa is required, FBE will notify you with the procedures to obtain. At this time, Israel and Greece do not require tourist Visa’s for US citizens.
Do I Need to Purchase Travel Protection?
We recommend that all travelers purchase a travel protection plan to help protect you and your trip investment! We realize that overseas travel is expensive, and while we do all that we can to ensure a safe and flawless trip, there are circumstances that cannot be controlled. Consider Travel Protection for Trip Cancellation, Trip Interruption, Emergency Medical and Emergency Evacuation/Repatriation, Trip Delay, Baggage Delay and more.
To view/download the Policy based on your state of residence, which provides the full coverage terms and details, including limitations and exclusions, go to; http://policy.travelexinsurance.com/APGB-1217. Travel Insurance underwritten by, Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company; NAIC #22276. MP4
Do I need any special immunizations?
No. However we do recommend that you are up to date on your routine vaccinations. Check with your Health Care Provider for any vaccinations that may be recommended for your particular health care.
What about my prescription medications or other health needs?
Keep in original bottle with the prescription attached. If necessary, ask your pharmacist for small bottles with label and take only what you need with a few days extra. Bring a list of the medications with the generic equivalent, as doctors in other countries may not be familiar with brand names. Your pharmacist should be able to provide this. Keep medications in carry-on bag. Have a note from prescribing physician for controlled substances, injectable medications, and multiple medications. Those who carry insulin should keep a copy of the written prescription with the medication. All medically necessary supplies for diabetes treatment are allowed on flights and can be administered if needed. Note that any container of insulin greater than three ounces must be declared at the security checkpoint.
What happens if I become ill or injured while traveling?
Our tour guides and in-country tour operators will assist in accessing proper medical care should that be required. Some health insurance policies DO NOT cover illness or injury overseas.
Can I upgrade to Business Class?
Group fares do not allow for upgrades. If you have frequent flyer miles that your would like to use, we advise you to choose the Land Only Option and arrange your own flight with the airline of your choice.
How much money should I take?
There is no need to carry a large amount of currency with you. US Dollars are accepted in most countries, credit cards are widely accepted, and ATM’s are generally available in major cities. ATM’s will provide you with local currency at time of exchange. We recommend taking small denominations of US Dollars~$50-$100. We do not recommend Travelers Checks due to the high usage fee and difficulty in cashing. Call your credit card institution BEFORE you leave to notify them of the dates/itinerary of your overseas travel. If not notified before travel, banking institutions can place a security hold on transactions to protect the cardholder from fraudulent use.
Where do I exchange currency?
Money can be exchanged at the airport either prior to departure or upon arrival in country. Hotels can charge a (high) fee for exchange.
Do I need to take a power converter/adapter?
Yes. You will need a power converter/adapter specific to the country of travel if you plan to take items requiring power (Computers, electric shavers, cell phone, camera). It is recommended to NOT bring electric curling irons. Hotels supply hairdryers. Faith Based Expeditions does provide ONE adapter per traveler in our travel packets. If more are needed, traveler must provide.
Do the hotels have internet access?
Internet is available in most of the hotels that we use.
Am I required to tip?
Gratuities (tips) are included for all normal services during your tour as stipulated in the tour brochure conditions including bag portage, guides/driver/hoteliers/food service (service gratuity for lunches is not included unless indicated in tour program). It is customary that service providers, guides, or driver be tipped for any SPECIAL or PERSONAL service, which they may provide for you. You may, of course, at any time, give an additional gratuity to a service provider should they exceed your expectations.
Are all meals included and what if I have special dietary needs?
Breakfast and Dinner are typically included in the cost of the tour. Lunches usually are not included in the cost and typically range $15-20 US Dollars plus gratuity. If lunch is included or if dinner is not included, this will be indicated on your particular itinerary. Hotels typically offer buffet style meals and are able to provide for vegans, vegetarians, and other special dietary requests.
What should I wear?
Dress should be modest in respect to the culture in which you are visiting. Shorts may be worn but some churches and religious sites may require that shoulders and knees must be covered. It is suggested that you bring pants or skirts on bus to change in to before touring these sites. A light shirt or shawl is helpful to have on hand if wearing sleeveless tops. Your guide will advise you of days that this will occur so that you can be prepared. Jeans can certainly be worn at all sites. Head covering may be required for both men and women. A cap, scarf, or other head covering is acceptable. Most evening meals are in the hotel therefore no special attire is required for evening meals. Comfortable shoes are a must! Practical walking shoes and/or sandals and at least one pair to interchange or wear at night.
How long are the walks and hikes? What is the level of difficulty? How strenuous is the tour?
Activities for this tour require you to be in good health and able to climb stairs without assistance, walk at a modest pace for a few miles a day on uneven terrain, and be able to transport your own luggage. Please note that many international sites and facilities, as well as tour buses, do not have available accommodations for persons with mobility limitations (wheelchair, walker, cane, etc.). If you have a medical condition or use medical equipment which could affect your travel, please consult your health care provider and our office.