Just a few days to go before our departure to Israel!
Here is additional information concerning our trip.
If you haven't already, please take time and read all of the Travel Tips and FAQs here.
Give Yourself Time
For those flying with us from JFK in New York on November 9th: Plan to travel to New York with plenty of time to spare. Remember, you need to be at the departure gate TWO HOURS before our scheduled departure time. Also, remember to leave your phone on until you have checked in with our Steve Malmquist at the gate at JFK.
* Flying with us from New York? Read Departure Information here.
Tel Aviv Hotel Info
Those traveling to Israel independent of the group flying from New York can check in at the Marriott Renaissance in Tel Aviv anytime after 2:30pm local time on the afternoon of Tuesday, Nov. 10. Our group is booked in the hotel as "SCOTT VOLK NOVEMBER 2015."
* Meeting us in Israel?Read "where and when" here.
Updated Cell Phone info for Israel
In addition to the information posted a few days ago, here is more info.
Most cell service providers have some reasonable options for those traveling abroad too. Verizon users can purchase a variety of plans. For those who need to be in closer touch with folks back home there is a plan addition which includes a block of 100 minutes of talk time to receive or make calls back to the USA and Canada, 100 MB of data, 100 outgoing text messages, and unlimited incoming texts for $40. The international plan option is on a month to month basis so you can cancel it after our trip.
To view this and other international calling options just log onto your Verizon account online, look for "International Options," then "Traveling Outside the US," and choose "International Travel Talk, Text & Data." Again, should you choose a plan like this from your carrier beware of going over your allotted limits. The extra charges can add up quick.
Meal Reminder...
We'll have morning and evening meals together at the hotels and we'll be "on our own" for snacks or lunches while out touring.
Money...
Merchants in Israel accept US currency no problem. Just make certain you have plenty of small bills because some of your change may be in Shekels so you don't want to buy a $1 item with a US $20 or $50. How much to bring is of course up to each individual.
I've been asked about price of lunches or snacks. I'm not sure about that but it can't be much for lunch (maybe $10-15 a day and certainly less for snacks).
Words of Wisdom...
When you land in Israel and approach the passport control window, you will be asked the following question: "why are you here and where are you staying?" The proper response is, "we are here for a tour, staying at the Renaissance in Tel Aviv tonight."
Travel Tip Suggestions and Cautions:
- Are you walking in preparation for the trip???
- Begin to think "Israel time" to get a jump on adjusting your sleeping schedules. Israel is six hours ahead of New York and nine hours in front of Seattle.
- To get more out of your trip and to help organize your memories consider keeping a journal of where we go and what you see and do. It's suggested that journaling is best done early and often.
- Two items that we've enjoyed: Melanie and I have appreciated a "raised relief" map of the Holy Land. You still have time to order one and receive it before our departure.
- Be careful and use wisdom in sharing your faith, especially in Jerusalem.
Perhaps the MOST Important Thing...
Please pray for God's favor, protection and blessing on everyone traveling to Israel for our tour. Pray for our guides, the tour company and our coach driver. Pray for Melanie and me as I have really burnt the proverbial candle at both ends recently due to both my travel and speaking schedule, radio and of course organizing and thinking about our trip.
Shalom!
