Israel anyone?

[disneygal]

Hi friends,

OK, I haven't seen discussion about travel to Israel in this community. Anyone planning a trip? I think tourism is getting fired up again, with many groups planning trips this summer. I lived in Israel for about five years, and certainly hope potential visitors will add this destination to their travel plans. If anyone has questions/thoughts about travel to this part of the world, I would love to discuss with you.

[bboston]

My wife and I are thinking of an Israel or Israel/Egypt trip in November, 2007. How is the weather then?Which sitesare must sees? Any unusual or off the usual paths items you suggest we see or do? Great hotels? Great restaurants? We are in our early 60's and active. We are not looking for a predominantly religiously oriented trip.

B. Boston

[disneygal]

Hi bboston, I hope you're enjoying the trip planning! November could be a bit cool around Jerusalem, but should be a pretty good time for a visit to that part of the world. Just bring some clothing for cooler evenings. I imagine the usual suggestions for Israel are Jerusalem, Tel Aviv and maybe Haifa or the Dead Sea area, so I'll offer some other ideas.

The Galilee is beautiful - Tiberias (at the base of the Sea of Galilee) is a good base to explore that part of the country. Safed, a small town in the Galilee is home to many artists and small galleries: http://www.artists.co.il/safed/

While in the Tel Aviv area, you might like to stay in the nearby town of Herzliya on the Sea. It's about half an hour from Tel Aviv, with much better beachs - a good place to relax for a couple of days before continuing your trip or heading home.

At the southern tip of Israel is Eilat, on the Red Sea. The warm weather attacts Europeans seeking a sunny spot for winter vacations. There are some newer spa hotels, good snorkeling and more of an international feel.

Let me think some more....

[nquatse]

Planning a trip to Egypt this fall. Would also like to go to Israel, but having a problem finding a direct flight from Cairo. Any ideas?I understand the bus thru the sinai is no longer a particularly good idea.

[aarzo]

I'm thinking of going to israel this summer, probablythe last two weeks of July, and would like to be close to a beach(es) and an upscale resort with spa facilities. I'd also like to be able to take a tour(s) to see some historical sights.

Never having been, I don't know how/where to start looking. so I'm hoping you can help.







Howard