In conjunction with DAN TOURS Present the ULTIMATE - ALL INCLUSIVE

COMMUNITY FAMILY BAR/BAT MITZVAH EXPERIENCE

The most comprehensive family tour offered in North America with the most experienced operations team! More hotel nights, sightseeing and activities than offered elsewhere. More fun for the kids!!

DEC. 18, 2008 - JAN. 1, 2009

 

Day 1:  Thursday – December 18, 2008

Meet at the Airport, bid farewell to friends who have come to say good-bye, board our flight – Israel, here we come! 

 

Day 2:  Friday – December 19 - Jerusalem

Welcome to Ben Gurion Airport, Tel Aviv. Our representative and guide will meet you, help you through customs and transfer you on a deluxe, air conditioned tour bus to the Golden City of Jerusalem, the ancient and modern capital of Israel. We’ll pause to participate in a "Shehechiyanu" ceremony on the way to our downtown luxurious hotel. We’ll relax and absorb the sunshine and excitement of being in our land of Israel. Later today, during our scrumptious welcome Friday night dinner at the Hotel, we will be briefed on the program. In the evening, stroll through Ben-Yehuda Promenade, with its sidewalk cafes, street artists and local handicrafts.   D

 

Day 3: Saturday - Dec. 20 – Free in Jerusalem

A free day: Walking tour to explore the Old City, or visit relatives, friends. Swim in the enclosed pool, rest before the tour continues. The evening is free to explore the culinary treasures of Jerusalem.   B

 

Day 4:  Sunday - Dec. 21 – Old City of Jerusalem

Before entering the Old City we’ll have a historical orientation then our guide will take us through sites to which very few have access!  We will visit the Jewish Quarter, the Cardo and the colonnaded main street of Byzantine, Jerusalem.  The Kotel (Judaism’s holiest site –the Western Wall, in which you may place a note).  Visit the Davidson Exhibition to see a fantastic computer imaging presentation of the Temple.  We’ll see the Hafirot Hakotel (the most recent Wall excavations), Southern Wall Excavations, the Rabbinical Tunnel under the Temple Mount, the stores under the Robinson Arch.  Learn of the illegal excavations by those who are trying to destroy Jewish archeological evidence of our homeland.  Lunch break at Ramat Rachel and then visit the famous protection wall surrounding Jerusalem.  See the Bazaars and more.    We will visit the Israel Museum and on the back to the hotel we visit a diamond and gold factory. diamond and gold factory. Before dinner the families will meet the Rabbi, and then the bar/bat mitzvah children will

have a chance to rehearse privately, in comfort, with him. Dinner in a restaurant.  Overnight:  Jerusalem.    BD        

 

Day 5:  Monday - Dec. 22 – New City of Jerusalem

We begin our day with a tour of the New City of Jerusalem. View the Knesset (Israel’s Parliament) and view the beautiful new Supreme Court building. Ride the Time elevator, a multi-media attraction which takes you on a fascinating, three dimensional, simulated ride through the last two millennia of Jerusalem’s history.   We stop and have lunch and then we proceed to Har Herzle, the military Cemetery to pay homage to Theodore Herzle, other Israeli Statesmen and heroes at the final resting place. Yad Vashem, the Holocaust Memorial, for a lecture followed by a tour of its exhibits, Children’s Memorial and Dead Communities Valley.  Dinner at the hotel.     BD

 

Day 6:  Tuesday - Dec. 23 – Archeological dig

Early departure, we drive west to Modi’in tree planting center and ceremony.  Continue to the ancient city, Beit Govrin for archeological digging at Tel Maresha. We sort through our excavated treasures in the caves.  Proceed to Latrun where we’ll tour the Armored Forces Museum, occupying the premises formerly used by the British Army during their mandate.  This site was of strategic importance in defense of the Tel Aviv-Jerusalem supply route during the War of Independence.  Today young soldiers (and visitors) learn of those who preceded them here.  You’ll have plenty of photo opportunities as you and your children examine al the different tanks and armored vehicles that were in IDF service before we return back to Jerusalem and if time permits we stop on the way at the Scrolls of Fire Monument. Dinner will be served at the hotel.  BD

 

Day 7:  Wednesday Dec. 24 – Enroute to Galilee

Today we bid farewell to the Jerusalem and head on our way to the North via Jericho and the Jordan Valley. We stop at an observation point to learn about the political significance of the Jordan Valley. We continue to Beit Shean, then view the Roman Amphitheatre and tour the largest excavation site of any Roman city in the Middle East.  Continue via the eastern shores of the Sea of Galilee, along the borders with Syria and Jordan Drive to visit Mitzpe Kfar Haruv from which we will have a fantastic view of Lake Kinneret and better understand the political complexities in this part of the Golan Heights. Proceed to the ancient holy city of Safed; we will have ample time to visit the artist’s colony and the tiny old synagogues in the town where Kabala was ‘mystically’ born. Drive to Tiberias to check into our deluxe spa Hotel–Galei Kinneret. Dinner at the hotel.  BD

 

Day 8:  Thursday - Dec. 25 – Galilee/Golan 

Exploring the northernmost part of Israel: What a blast! We begin at Kibbutz Ayelet Hashachar’s shooting range to test our target shooting skills!  As the kids boast about who scored best. We  will stop and the Neot Factory and

 

 

then we will continue to the Banias Springs, one of the sources of the Jordan River, where we will pause to enjoy our box lunches (supplied by the hotel).  Afterwards, we’ll proceed to Har (Mount) Ben Tal.  This stronghold overlooks the deserted Syrian city of Kuneitra and provides a breath taking view of the whole area including kibbutzim below and shows how vulnerable they had been, prior to 1967. We then visit an Army Base, for yet another unbelievable experience, speak with the soldiers who defend the northern borders and observe the life of a real combat unit! (This northern program and the visit to the army base is subject to change due to the political situation and the ability of IDF to host groups). In the evening we drive to Tiberias where we have an evening of surprises, fun and good food at Decks (Israeli grill) Restaurant followed by a short cruise on the Sea of Galilee. Overnight at Galei Kinneret.   BD

 

Day 9:  Friday - Dec. 26 - Enroute to Tel Aviv

After a bountiful breakfast, alas, we bid farewell to the Galilee and drive west to Haifa.  View the Baha’i Shrine and beautiful Persian Gardens and drive through a Druze village where we stop for lunch and than to Caesarea the most famous port city built by King Herod. We will visit the newly excavated Hippodrome and enjoy the new Multi Media Show that depicts the history of this ancient city and experience its new attractions. Drive on the way to Tel Aviv the modern business capital of Israel. We check into our deluxe hotel. Dine at Maganda for a taste of Middle Eastern cuisine at the Yemenite quarter. O/N Tel Aviv.  BD

 

Day 10:  Shabbat – Dec. 27 – Celebration

A free day to enjoy Tiberias a free optional tour or the region will be available. Tonight at 7:30 pm, we will participate in our Bar/Bat Mitzvah celebration dinner Party. Guests may be invited (must be coordinated in advance).   BD

 

Day 11:  Sunday – Dec. 28 – Tel Aviv

After your delicious buffet breakfast, you’ll start your orientation tour at the Independence Hall the place where the declaration of the establishment of the state of Israel was made in 1948 by the first Israeli Prime minister - David Ben Gurion. We will be able to learn about the first steps of the newly established Jewish state. the 4,000 year old port city of Jaffa, from which you’ll have a breath-taking view of modern Tel Aviv and the ancient/modern contrast of the two. You’ll want to stroll through the narrow, picturesque streets of this old city, view the art galleries and enjoy the

 

 

 

special Mediterranean ambiance.  Next, we drive south from Tel Aviv to Machon Ayalon to visit the pre-state

underground ammunition factory. After a short lunch break we drive to the Dead Sea proceed to the hotel for a dip in the mineral - rich waters of the Dead Sea, cover our bodies with black mud and have fun. We spend the night at the deluxe seaside Hod Hotel, near Massada.             BD        

                       

Day 12:  Monday – Dec. 29 – Massada / Eilat

A pre-dawn ascent of Massada by cable car to view the gorgeous sunrise over the desert and Dead Sea from this fortress which staved off the arduous Roman advance and

earned a position as one of one hundred “World Heritage Sites” by the United Nations. The Bar/Bat Mitzvah service

will be held in our shaded spot, ensuring everyone’s maximum enjoyment of the ceremony. You’ll have some time to visit the famous palace, synagogue, bathhouse and more, built here by Herod the Great. Than to Kfar Hanokdim for our Desert Experience – a day of exceptional family excitement!  We’ll encounter the desert Bedouins at Havat Hanokdim.  A caravan of camels will take us for a ride through the desert where we’ll have a “Chafla” lunch, enjoying Bedouin hospitality.  We begin our journey to Eilat. We drive through the desert to arrive in Eilat just before sun set. We check into our deluxe Hilton Queen of Sheba hotel. B L D

 

Day 13:  Tuesday – Dec. 30 – Eilat

This morning you are free to enjoy Eilat; complete your shopping in this V.A.T. - free town and pack. Undoubtedly, many names and phone numbers will be exchanged and many good-byes will be said.  Or enjoy an optional tour to Petra!  Tonight we have our farewell dinner. Overnight at our deluxe hotel in Eilat.  BD

                                   

Day 14:  Wednesday – Dec. 31 - Eilat

This morning we will have a half day tour to the copper mines of Timnah to visit Solomon’s Pillars. Upon our return we will have a city tour of Eilat the city that borders two countries, and enjoy the special spirit for which this town is famous. Those who fly El AL will be flown to Tel Aviv in the late afternoon.  B

 

Day 15:  Thursday – Jan. 1, 2009 – Home sweet home

Those who fly El AL – early morning 0100 departure back to Canada to arrive back at 0600 just in time for breakfast. Those flying AC will require an additional night either in Eilat or Tel Aviv and will depart at Noon (12:30 pm) to arrive back home around 6:00 pm.

 

 

As bookings are made months prior to departure it may be necessary to make minor changes before the final itinerary is published.  The information meeting held prior to departure will provide further details. All efforts are made to use the restaurants mentioned in the itinerary.  However changes may have to be made at the last minute subject to number of participants and availability, on location.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                                            - 3 -

                                                                       

                                                                        Number

                                                                                                Of rooms           12 nights          13 nights         

Prices:  2007 prices                                                                  Per family           EL AL              Air Canada     

1.  Single (One person in a room)                                                      1                $ 6,459 Cad      $ 6,700

2.  Couple (sharing one room)                                                           1                $10,241             $10,503

3.  Family of 3 (2 adults and 1 BM child in one room)                          1                $13,443             $14,111

4.  Family of 4 (2 adults and 2 children, one under 12)                         2                $19,417             $19,889

5.  Family of 4 (2 adults and 2 children above 12)                                2                $19,835             $20,333

6.  Family of 5 (2 adults and 3 children, 2 under 12)                            2                $22,800             $23,369

7.  Family of 5 (3 children, 1 under 12                                                2                $23,205             $23,813

8.  Family of 5 (2 adults and 3 children above 12)                                2                $23,688             $24,205

9.  Family of 6 (2 adults and 4 children in 2 rooms, 3/room                  2                on request

Those who buy land only will receive air credit of $1700 for Air Canada or El Al (The credit for child under 12 is 25% less).

PRICES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Pre and post tour hotel charges:   2007 prices

                                                   Pre night at the Carlton*          Post night at Hilton Eilat

Single                                                   $199                                        $228

Couple                                                  $228                                         $256

Family of 3                                            $252                                         $281

Family of 4 in two rooms                         $399                                         $469

Family of 5 in two rooms                         $427                                         $499

Family of 6 in two rooms                         $450                                         $540

Payments:

Partial payments can be made in Israeli Bonds! Full payment is required 30 days prior to departure. Tickets and insurance may be paid by credit card; the balance must be paid by cheque.

Registration:

A deposit of $300 CAD per person is required to secure space on the tour.  The deposit becomes non-refundable two months prior to departure.

Cancellation Policy:

The deposit is refundable up to 3 months prior to departure.

After payments are made, air tickets are subject to $250 cancellation penalty.  Land services are subject to 50% cancellation fee up to 14 days prior to departure and 75% 14 days or less, prior to departure.

Price Includes:

-          12 nights hotel accommodation

-          9.5 days of sightseeing

-          Deluxe motor coach An expert, English speaking licensed guide

-          Assistance at airport upon arrival and departure

-          Welcome kit upon arrival

-          All entrance fees to places of interest and activities mentioned in the itinerary

-          All transfers on official group arrival and departure dates, including those to restaurants for dinner outside the hotel!

-          Israeli breakfast daily

-          11 dinners including welcome, farewell and celebration dinner. 1 Chafla lunch and 1 lunch box

-          All taxes and service charges in Israel

-          Ceremony atop Massada

-          Flight from Eilat to Tel Aviv

-          Services of our office in Israel

-          Peerless Travel special travel accessories

-          Porterage at the airport and hotels

-          Gratuities to outside restaurants and hotel staff

And much more….

 

Not Included

Services of personal nature

-          Meals and drinks not included in the program

-          Airport taxes

-          Insurance (must be in place 3 months prior to departure – see our payment policy)

-          Gratuities to driver and guide

 

Extensions:

There is no additional airfare charge for extension of stay in Israel while space is available.  For those who stay additional nights, special discounts are available. 

 

Hotel Accommodations:

Deluxe category:

-          Jerusalem: Inbal

-          Dead Sea:   Hod

-          Galilee: Galei Kinneret spa hotel in Tiberias

-          Tel Aviv: Sheraton

-          Eilat: Hilton Queen of Sheba

 

 

Time line

1.     Travel insurance must be issued not later than 3 months prior to departure (Deposits becomes non refundable).

2.     Airline tickets must be paid and issued no later than 35 days prior to departure.

3.     Final land tour payments must be made 30 days prior to departure.

4.     An information meeting will be held prior to departure to give participants an opportunity to meet.  Valuable information and documentation will be distributed. Out of town families will receive materials by courier.)

 

 

PEERLESS TRAVEL 7117 Bathurst St. in Thornhill ON L4J 2J6 (just north of Steeles)

Tel: 905-886-5610 or 800-294-1663 Speak to Kathy at ext. #345 or Ehud at ext. #322

Or email ehud.telem@dantours.com  Web site: www.Israeltoursandtravel.com