Israel - The Holy Land with Vicki McKenna
Together, we will discover the ancient world of Israel, where legendary stories of humanity’s collective history blend with the thriving dynamic of modern life. We’ll journey to venerable locations that have existed for 30 centuries. Stroll the Via Dolorosa, or the Way of the Cross, following in the footsteps of Jesus Christ’s crucifixion, burial, and resurrection. Experience the solemnity of the Western Wall, the only surviving remnant of the Temple Mount, Judaism’s most sacred shrine. Visit Bethlehem, known as the birthplace of Jesus. We’ll even float in the tranquil healing waters of the Dead Sea, experiencing its unique natural buoyancy.
I invite you to join me in The Holy Land…a lifelong dream come true.
Vicki McKenna is a converted conservative and reformed Marxist. She graduated from Beloit College with a degree in Communism and pursued graduate studies at the University of Denver in applied Marxism. After realizing that, in order to pay rent, she would probably need an expanded skill set beyond Revolution 101, she decided to embrace her inner-false consciousness and get a job.
A sluggish economy at the beginning of the 90s meant she'd have to think outside the box and realized that her training in Social Justice double-speak made her perfectly suited to the world of Media.
A few tax returns into her career it occurred to her that perhaps this whole collectivism thing was a whole lot of nonsense, and after a chance encounter with former Congressman Mark Neuman, she went looking for a book by Milton Friedman at the Beloit Public Library.
That is when the fog of socialism parted permanently.
Embarrassed by her wasted days of misspent college, and determined to share her wonder at how she could pay so much for an education that taught her so little, she embarked on a career that would help her share the pathway out of economic and political ignorance with others--and the Vicki McKenna Show was born.
She's been called a Nazi (not true, she abhors Hitler and supports Israel), Atilla the Hun (she confesses to liking this one), and a "self-loathing so-called woman" for daring to reject her college indoctrination and think differently in the People's Republic of Madison and beyond. But she also knows how true the old cliche is: if they're shooting at you, you're over the target.
She's won a bunch of media awards and spoke truth-to-power on all the cable news stations, except MSNBC--because of course not. She loves guns, dogs, birds, veterans, and 80's pop culture--and she once got arrested at a U2 concert.Per Person Double Occupancy
$6,399
Single Supplement: $1,499
(Limited Availability)
April 2-11, 2024
10 Days / 9 Nights
Itinerary
Depart USA for Israel
Board your overnight flight to Tel Aviv to explore Israel, an ancient land rich in tradition.
Tel Aviv, Israel – Tour Begins
Welcome to Tel Aviv, a thriving, reinvented city on the Mediterranean coast. Feel the bustling energy humming around you and jump right into this epicenter of Israeli chic. The city cultivates an ever-evolving restaurant scene paired with sparkling coastlines, resulting in an irresistible hub of urban sophistication. This is Tel Aviv, a non-stop celebration of innovation and excitement. Tonight, join your fellow travelers for a welcome reception at your hotel.
Tel Aviv
This morning, explore Tel Aviv’s “White City” (UNESCO), highlighting famous Bauhaus architecture. Then it’s on to Carmel Market for a walking food tour. Sample fresh hummus and savory street foods as you connect with the locals, getting a true taste of everyday life. This afternoon, walk the narrow stone streets of Jaffa, an ancient port city. Enjoy an evening at leisure to take in the sunset along Tel Aviv’s rejuvenated waterfront promenade or delve into the city’s captivating nightlife of rooftop lounges, sophisticated cocktail bars, and more. (B, L)
Tel Aviv – Caesarea – Winery Visit – Sea of Galilee – Tiberias
Follow the coast to the ruins of the ancient city of Caesarea, built by Herod the Great in the 1st century B.C. Pause for a visit to a winery set among the hills of Upper Galilee. Enjoy lunch and taste the wines produced according to the Kosher tradition. This evening, set sail on the tranquil waters of the Sea of Galilee aboard a replica boat reminiscent of the 1st century. Your day comes to a close in Tiberias, your home for the next 2 nights. (B, L, D)
Tiberias – Magdala – Druze Lunch – Tiberias
Begin your day by exploring the excavated ruins of Magdala, regarded to be the hometown of Mary Magdalene, and find an ancient city of stone carvings and excavated temples. Journey to Daliyat al-Karmel and chat with locals over a plate of enticing Arabic food as you bond with members of the Druze community at a home-hosted lunch. (B, L, D)
Tiberias – Nazareth – Mount of Olives – Jerusalem
Depart Tiberias for the historic city of Nazareth. Visit the Church of the Annunciation and Mary’s Well. Continue south to the Mount of Olives and marvel at the all-encompassing view of Jerusalem, including the shining Dome of the Rock. Housing layers of history and heritage allow the resilient spirit of the city to capture your senses. Tonight, get to know a local family as you enjoy a traditional meal in their home. (B, D)
Jerusalem
Walk in the footsteps of millions before you and discover the old walled city of Jerusalem (UNESCO). On this walking tour, see the Western (Wailing) Wall and the storied path of the Stations of the Cross. Immerse yourself in the everyday culture of Jerusalem’s Shuk (the Bazaars of the Old City), with each narrow street dedicated to different trades passed down through generations. As you explore, breathe in the smell of freshly baked bread, roasting sesame seeds, and savory spices. The remainder of the day is yours. This evening presents a magical Jerusalem night,*** bringing Jerusalem’s stories to life. By bus, enjoy stunning views of the Old City walls, Temple Mount and Mount Zion. On foot, walk through Jaffa gate to the Old City (UNESCO), which combines ancient beauty with timeless allure, and visit the Citadel (also known as the Tower of David). The walls of the Citadel serve as a stage for a “Night Spectacular” show which is a celebration of sight and sound. Amidst the archaeological remains in the Citadel’s courtyard and set to the sound of original music, the story of Jerusalem unfolds through giant breathtaking, virtual reality images celebrating Jerusalem’s spiritual and historical role across the centuries. (B, D)
Jerusalem – Bethlehem – Jerusalem
Begin your day with a poignant visit to Yad Vashem, the World Holocaust Remembrance Center. You won’t just tour this powerful museum, but you’ll get to have an open conversation with a Holocaust survivor.**** Venture to the Judean Hills and spend your afternoon in the city of Bethlehem.***** This historic city is known as the birthplace of Jesus. It is also regarded in Judaism as the hometown of King David and where he was crowned as the king of Israel. Make your way through the town on foot with an expert guide, feeling as if you’ve stepped into another time. You’ll visit the historic Church of the Nativity – built upon the site where Jesus was born. The church was constructed in the 4th century, and its weathered stone facades allude to its age. Return to Jerusalem in the evening. (B)
Jerusalem – Masada – Dead Sea – Jerusalem
Travel to the desert fortress of Masada (UNESCO), situated on a cliff next to the Dead Sea. Ascend the ancient walls of Masada by cable car and explore Herod’s Palaces, the Roman Camp, and the Synagogue. Float in the tranquil healing waters of the Dead Sea, experiencing its unique natural buoyancy. (B, D)
Jerusalem – Depart for Home
Transfer to the airport for your flight home. (B)
Inclusions
Included
- Economy class roundtrip airfare from Chicago (ORD)*
- Roundtrip airport transfers from Milwaukee to Chicago (ORD)
- Premium hotel accommodations throughout Tel Aviv, Tiberias, and Jerusalem**
- All ground transportation
- Expert English-speaking guides
- 16 Meals (8 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 5 dinners)
- Gratuities for drivers & local guides
- Taxes and fees as of 5/1/23
- Complete services of Cruise & Tour including tour manager
Extraordinary Experiences
Cocktails with Vicki McKenna to welcome you to the promised land.
Get to know Vicki McKenna over a Q & A.
Experience Jerusalem and the Tower of David at Night.
Visit the historic Church of Nativity – built upon the site where Jesus was born.
Sample wines integral to Israeli traditions at a vineyard in Upper Galilee.
Sail the tranquil waters of the Sea of Galilee aboard a replica boat reminiscent of the 1st century.
*Other gateways may be available upon request. Additional charges may apply.
**Hotels may be substituted due to unforeseen circumstances.
***The sound and light show is an outdoor event that will operate weather permitting based on a minimum of 25 passengers confirmed on the tour. If the minimum amount is not met, the show will be omitted from the itinerary and will be replaced with time at leisure.
****Due to the fragile health conditions of Holocaust survivors, on occasion this interaction may be replaced with the screening of a poignant recorded testimony.
*****Time will be allotted while in Bethlehem for entry into the Nativity Grotto. There is often a wait time that can exceed 2 – 3 hours; therefore, you must be prepared to stand in line for the entire time.
Not Included
- Increases in taxes, fees, or surcharges after 5/1/23
- Travel Insurance (Medical insurance is required)
- Air upgrades
- Airline baggage fees
- Items of a personal nature
Testimonials
Rates
Deposit:
A $1,500 per person deposit is required with your reservation.
A second deposit in the amount of $2,500 is due 9/5/23.
Final payment due 12/4/23.
All payments can be made by credit card or check.
Cancellation:
Your initial $1,500 deposit is refundable through 9/4/23, less a $750 per person cancellation fee.
Between 9/5/23 and 12/4/23, the cancellation charge is 50% of deposits paid.
After 12/4/23 or non-appearance on departure day, 100% of the cost of your travel arrangements is forfeited.
3-Nt Post Jordan Extension
How to Book
- Call Cruise & Tour at (800) 383-3131 or REQUEST A CALL
- Ask to have a place held on this trip
- You will receive an email with a link to our online registration form
Fill it out and you’re in!
It’s that easy. Give us a call today!
Travel Insurance Information
Worldwide Trip Protector
Cruise & Tour recommends that you purchase travel insurance.
To purchase travel protection insurance:
- Click here to view and print the Travel Insured International brochure which has a brief summary of coverage.
- After making your travel reservation and deposit, a Cruise & Tour representative will create an insurance quote for you. You will receive that travel insurance quote from Travel Insured International Customer Care.
- From here you will be able to view the quote, add additional coverage options such as Cancel for Any Reason, and purchase your policy all in the Travel Insured International Portal.
Please Note: Pre-Existing Condition Exclusion will be waived if you purchase the protection plan within 21 days of the date of your initial trip payment. Options such as Cancel for Any Reason or Interrupt for Any Reason must also be purchased within 21 days of the date of your initial trip payment.
To view and print the Explanation of Benefits, click here.
Cancellation/Interruption