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Israel is one of those places many have been wanting to visit for years, but just never found the right time. This September, Zoom Vacations has developed a tour to Israel that will make you glad you waited until now!
Israel is the most gay-friendly country in the Middle East, and in fact, 61% of Israelis support civil marriage for same-sex couples.
In addition to its gay-friendly attitude, few countries can boast such diversity in its offerings, appealing to virtually any traveler. In one day you can visit a mighty desert, swim in the saltiest water on earth, explore a modern city, discover centuries-old ruins, experience a vibrant gay scene, and so much more.
And Jordan? Ask most gay men who are avid travelers to list the top three destinations that they are dying to visit, and Petra, in the Kingdom of Jordan almost always makes the list.
Petra is an archeological city that was established around the 6th century BCE as a capital for the Nabataeans. Petra has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985, and UNESCO considers Petra "one of the most precious cultural properties of man's cultural heritage."
Today, it is widely considered one of the world's most awe-inspiring architectural gems.
Zoom Vacations trip to Israel and Jordan explores the history, culture, cuisine, and gay nightlife with sensational guides, while enjoying the finest hotels in Petra, the Dead Sea, Jerusalem, Galilee, and Tel Aviv.
• Services of a Zoom Vacations Concierge throughout the trip
• Accommodations at the finest 5 star hotels throughout
• Meet & greet service inside the airport upon arrival & departure, available upon request, to make your arrival as carefree as possible.
• Private arrival airport transfer by air-conditioned car from the airport to the Mamilla Hotel on private basis
• Transfers & excursions by a private air-conditioned small bus with a driver throughout
• The best hotels in Jerusalem, Galilee, and Tel Aviv
• Breakfast daily
• Professional English speaking guides throughout the trip.
• All entrance fees to the sites mentioned in the itinerary.
• Gay nightlife excursions in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.
• Jerusalem city tour including a visit to the famous city walls, Rabbinical Tunnel, Via Dolorosa (Way of the Cross), Church of the Holy Sepulchre, marketplace, and more.
• Visit the fortress of Massada, the last stronghold in the zealots battle against the Roman Empire.
• Tour the caves of Qumran, where back in 1948 a Bedouin boy herding his sheep discovered the Dead Sea Scrolls.
• Optional swim in the world famous rejuvenating waters of the Dead Sea.
• Ground transfers in air conditioned vehicles throughout.
• Guided transfer into Jordan from Israel
• Transport in air conditioned vehicle from Petra to the Dead Sea, and Dead Sea to Amman
• Professionally guided tour of Petra.
• Portages at airports and hotels.
• Accommodations at the finest 5 star hotel on the Dead Sea, and the best spa in the Middle East
• All land and Zoom Vacations event transfers
Petra, Dead Sea, Jerusalem, Galilee, Tel Aviv, and more!
Day 1 - Thursday, September 14, 2017
Arrival / Jerusalem
 Upon arrival at Ben-Gurion airport, you will be met by your Zoom Vacations representative before transferring you to your hotel in Jerusalem.
Evening:
Welcome Dinner at one of Jerusalem's best restaurants.
Accommodations: Hotel Mamilla, Jerusalem
Meals Included: Dinner
Day 2 - Friday, September 15, 2017
Jerusalem
Breakfast is served at the hotel.
Morning / Afternoon:
Tour of Jerusalem
 After breakfast visit the Israel Museum to see the Model of Jerusalem as it was 2000 years ago, as well as the Shrine of the Book where the Dead Sea Scrolls are housed. Then we visit the Temple Area of the Old City of Jerusalem. At the Western Wall - the Kotel, you will see prayers and rituals of intense worship. Continue towards the Southern Wall excavations to see the Davidson Center and its superb 3D exhibit, which illustrates how life revolved around the Temple in ancient times.
Lunch included in historic Jerusalem.
We will also see the Old City from the Mount of Olives. At the foot of the hill is Gethsemane, the olive grove where Jesus spent his last night and was betrayed by Judas.  Then enter the walled old city via Zion Gate and proceed to the Jewish Quarter.
At the Cardo see the ancient Roman road at the heart of the city and visit the restored Sephardic synagogues. View the unearthed main Roman thoroughfare and ancient marketplace lined with columns. Walk through the Arab Bazaar and along the Way of the Cross to the Church of the Holy Sepulcher where you see Pilgrims from across the World venerating the Tomb of Christ.
Evening:
Evening at leisure.
Accommodations: Hotel Mamilla, Jerusalem
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Day 3 - Saturday, September 16, 2017
Jerusalem / Masada
Breakfast is served at the hotel.
 Morning / Afternoon:
Masada and the Dead Sea
After breakfast start the day with a dramatic view of Jerusalem from the Mt Of Olives and Gethsemane below.
Then we depart overland down the Jordan Valley and the moonscape of the Judean Desert and down to the Dead Sea (the lowest point on Earth) to Masada, where you continue by cable-car up to the last stronghold of the Zealots. Some 2000 years ago, Roman legions stormed one of the two paths to the top of this sandstone mountain to reach the Jewish Zealots headquartered there. The brave Israelite soldiers held out for three years against the invading Roman army before taking their own lives to avoid capture and enslavement. Many of their fortifications, originally built by King Herod, still stand.
 After visiting Masada, drive to Ein Bokek where you have lunch and the opportunity to use the hotel pool and swim in the Dead Sea.
Return to Jerusalem in the late afternoon.
Evening:
Evening at leisure.
Accommodations: Hotel Mamilla, Jerusalem
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Day 4 - Sunday, September 17, 2017
Jerusalem / Bethlehem
Breakfast is served at the hotel.
Morning / Afternoon:
Bethlehem
 Bethlehem is a small city in the West Bank, and attracts millions of visitors every year for its historical and religious significance. Known in the Christian faith as the birthplace of Jesus, its attractions are chiefly religious, but are intriguing even for people outside of the faith.
The most popular destination in Bethlehem is undoubtedly the Church of the Nativity on Manger Square. Allegedly the exact place of birth of Jesus, the church dates back to the Roman Emperor Constantine in 330 CE. While the actual structure is somewhat dark in appearance, the adjoining Franciscan Church of St. Catherine is in beautiful shape, and is definitely worth the visit.
 The second most visited attraction in Bethlehem is Rachel's tomb, where the wife of Jacob was supposedly buried. Be aware that access to the tomb is limited for security reasons, but it is visible from the surrounding fortress.
Other exciting sites include the Mosque of Omar, Solomon's Pools, and the Milk Grotto Chapel. The Old Town also provides a beautiful place for walks, or if you feel like getting a little out of the city, take a taxi to the dividing wall between Bethlehem and Israel to see the infamous Bansky graffiti.
Return to Jerusalem in the afternoon.
Evening:
Evening at leisure.
Accommodations: Hotel Mamilla, Jerusalem
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 5 - Monday, September 18, 2017
Jerusalem / Acre / Caesarea / Galilee
Breakfast is served at the hotel.
Morning / Afternoon:
Caesarea, Acre, and an Israeli Artist Village
 We will begin our tour today with a visit to Caesarea, where you see the contrast from "new" to "old". This 2000 year old city - built to honor Augustus Caesar - was once the capital of the Roman province and was later occupied by the Crusaders.
Today, you find a wealth of Roman, Byzantine, Arab and Crusader ruins in the area, as well as the harbour from which St. Paul was taken prisoner to Rome, an event that brought Christianity to the West. Near the excavated theater, you can view a partial inscription mentioning Pontius Pilate – this is the only secular reference of his existence.
 After Caesarea, we will visit a picturesque artists' village, the only one of its kind in Israel and one of the few such villages in the world. Nestled in natural vegetation and bordered by an ancient olive grove, it lies on the western slopes of Mt Carmel, in a breathtaking landscape looking out toward the sea and the Crusader fortress of Atlit. Here will we see artists at work and be surrounded by one of the largest collections of Israeli art.
 Then on to Acre, one of the world's oldest seaports, mentioned as far back as 3,500 years by the Pharaoh Tuthmosis III and now designated an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, and a succession of Crusaders occupied the town but Napoleon famously failed to conquer it. Acre was the main base for the Crusades and today you can see the stunning Halls and buildings of the Knights Hospitaller and Knights Templars.
Late Afternoon:
We will arrive at our luxurious hotel, which offers a serene landscape with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
Evening:
at leisure to enjoy the nearby countryside, explore more of the region, or simply relax by the pool.
Accommodations: Bayit Bagalil Hotel, Galilee
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Day 6 - Tuesday, September 19, 2017
Galilee / Golan Heights/ Winery
Breakfast is served at the hotel.
Morning / Afternoon:
 Tour of Golan Heights and visit to Winery
After breakfast we will explore the nearby Golan Heights region, which is historically and strategically very important to Israel. We will notice the start contrast of geography versus the desert, as the increased altitude allows for much milder temperatures and greener areas. Many types of grapes grow well in this climate, and we will explore (and taste) the offerings of the thriving Israeli wine industry, which has been expanding greatly over the years.
Lunch included.
Visit Tel Dan, the ancient Biblical city home of the Tribe of Dan; now a nature reserve but also a fascinating archaeological site.
Accommodations: Bayit Bagalil Hotel, Galilee
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Day 7 - Wednesday, September 20, 2017
Galilee / Armageddon / Tel Aviv
Breakfast is served at the hotel.
Morning:
Tour of Megiddo
 After checking out of the hotel, we will head to Megiddo, an ancient city-state now designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its historical, geographical, and theological importance, as its Greek name, Armageddon, illustrates. Excavations here have unearthed 26 layers of ruins.
Lunch included.
Early Afternoon:
Introduction to Tel Aviv and Old Jaffa
 Upon arrival in Tel Aviv, we will see the differences between the ancient area of Tel Aviv, Old Jaffa, and the modern architecture of what is possibly the most progressive city in the Middle-East. Jaffa is argued to be the oldest seaport in the world. From the Bible, It is also where Jonah was swallowed by a whale, so be careful when swimming. Nowadays it is one of the most diverse and heterogenous parts of the city of Tel Aviv and has a thriving arts scene.
Late Afternoon:
Check in to the Tel Aviv Hilton, located in front of the gay beach.
Evening:
at leisure.
Accommodations: Tel Aviv Hilton Hotel, Tel Aviv
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Day 8 - Thursday, September 21, 2017
Tel Aviv / Departure, and arrival into Petra
Breakfast is served at the hotel.
 Morning:
Ground Transfer for our entry into Jordan.
Afternoon:
Upon clearing customs and Immigration in Jordan, we will proceed to Petra, with sight seeing on the way.
Evening:
Evening Cocktails on the roof of the hotel in Petra.
Accommodations: The Mövenpick Nabatean Castle Hotel, Petra, 5 Stars
Meals Included: Breakfast and Evening Cocktails
Day 9 - Friday, September 22, 2017
Petra, Jordan
Breakfast is served at the hotel.
Morning:
After breakfast, depart hotel to visit the ancient city of Petra, built from 800 BC to 100 AD by Nabetean Arabs as a fortress, carved out of craggy rocks in an area which was virtually inaccessible. In the first and second century, the city reached the apex of its prosperity under Roman rule. When shipping slowly displaced caravan routes, however, the city's importance gradually dwindled. Petra fell into disuse and was lost to the world until 1812, when it was "re-discovered" by the Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt. Today, Petra is Jordan's number 1 tourist attraction, known as the "rose-red city half as old as time". The city covers an area of about 100 square kilometers, where over 800 monuments can be found. On arrival, we will enter this UNESCO World Heritage site on horseback.
Accommodations: The Mövenpick Nabatean Castle Hotel, Petra, 5 Stars
Meals Included: Buffet breakfast
Day 10 - Saturday, September 23, 2017
Petra and the Dead Sea
Buffet breakfast at the hotel.
Morning:
We drive to the Dead Sea, enjoying, movies, snacks, and laughs on the way. The Dead Sea has for centuries been a spa retreat, so it is befitting that we stay in the best hotel in the area, with the best rated spa in the Middle East. The Dead Sea is world renowned for its healing properties. It's also a LOT of fun.
Afternoon:
This afternoon, immerse yourself in the healing properties of the Dead Sea!
Accommodations: The Kempinski Hotel Ishtar, Swaimeh, 5 Stars
Meals Included: Buffet breakfast
Day 11 - Sunday, September 24, 2017
The Dead Sea
 Buffet breakfast at the hotel.
Day at leisure to float in the Dead Sea, take in a spa treatment, and more.
Evening:
Farewell dinner at a beautiful location within the hotel.
Accommodations: The Kempinski Hotel Ishtar, Swaimeh, 5 Stars
Meals Included: Buffet breakfast, and Dinner
Day 12 - Monday, September 25, 2017
The Dead Sea & Departure
Breakfast is served at the hotel.
Morning:
Morning at leisure to float in the Dead Sea, take in a spa treatment, and more.
Hotel check out. After your morning enjoying the Dead Sea, you will be assisted with your luggage and check out, and transferred to Queen Alia International Airport for our departure, or via air conditioned vehicle if continuing on to Egypt.
Meals Included: Breakfast
• Egypt Gay Tour & Nile Cruise - September 25 - October 3, 2017
The Mamilla Hotel, Jerusalem
4 nights
 An intimate and elegant sanctuary, and the hotel of choice for discerning visitors to the eternal city of Jerusalem.
Magnificent Location in the Heart of Jerusalem
Located in the heart of the city alongside Jerusalem's new shopping and entertainment experience the Alrov Mamilla Avenue, with its magnificent views of the Old City walls, the Tower of David and Jaffa Gate, the Mamilla Hotel is the very heart of Jerusalem's rich cultural heritage and bustling day life and is a leading luxury hotel in Jerusalem.
 Jerusalem's Finest Luxury Accomodations
Designed in collaboration with Alrov Luxury Hotels vision and commitment to excellence and execution and in partnership with world-renowned architects Moshe Safdie and Piero Lissoni, the Mamilla Hotel incorporates contemporary comforts and distinctive furnishings to create a unique ambience that both stimulates the senses and relaxes your body and soul.
World Class Facilities
Featuring exceptional rooms, distinctive restaurant and bar venues, and incomparable service. From the magnificent views of the Rooftop outdoor lounge & restaurant, through the shimmering ambience of the Mirror Bar, to the immersion of the Holistic Wellbeing Retreat, Mamilla Hotel in Jerusalem is ushering in a new era of luxury lifestyle hospitality.
Providing a unique blend of personalized attention, depth of knowledge and impeccable service, Mamilla Hotel's team of professionals are committed to providing an exceptional visitor experience to each and every guest.
Bayit Bagalil Hotel, Galilee
2 Nights
 High above the enchanting hills of upper Galilee is a place in Israel like no other.
This Mediterranean-style chateau is Northern Israel's most beloved estate, located within a national forest and wildlife reserve. Each of its 26 suites has breathtaking views of the forest surrounding it, as well as of Lake Kineret and the Golan mountain range.
Its thoroughly modern and chic interior design contrasts perfectly with its traditional stone structure. The perfect place to relax and enjoy the pool and desert spa after exploring the historic surrounds of Galilee.
Bayit Bagalil has a full-service spa. Dining options at this luxury hotel include a restaurant, a poolside bar, and a bar/lounge. Additional amenities include gift shops/newsstands, a garden, and a picnic area.
 Rooms have garden views. Amenities in air-conditioned guestrooms at Bayit Bagalil include CD players and bathrobes. Complimentary wireless high-speed Internet access is provided. 32-inch LCD televisions are equipped with cable channels and DVD players.
All accommodations provide desks and phones with voice mail; free international calls are offered (restrictions may apply). Bathrooms offer bidets, makeup/shaving mirrors, hair dryers, and slippers. Additional amenities include ceiling fans and windows that open. In addition, amenities available on request include extra towels/bedding and wake-up calls. Housekeeping is offered daily.
Tel Aviv Hilton Hotel, Tel Aviv
1 Night
Perched on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, the Hilton Tel Aviv hotel is just one minute from the beach and only a short stroll from Tel Aviv's shopping centers, restaurants, and cultural landmarks.
Lounge by the large saltwater pool and savor alfresco treats from the Pool Bar. De-stress and relax with a soothing massage or aromatherapy treatment with natural herbal products at the Hilton Tel Aviv hotel. Work out with cardiovascular machines and weights in the fully equipped fitness room. Unwind in the sauna after your exercise session. Dine in one of five sublime Kosher restaurants and bars. Sample fine sashimi in the Yakimono Sushi Bar, or indulge in sophisticated Mediterranean dining at King Solomon Restaurant.
 Enjoy your stay in this 32m²/344sq.ft room with a sea view, balcony, working area and marble bathroom. The bright and airy room, has large opening windows. All rooms, from Hilton Guest Rooms to Suites, have wireless internet access and private balconies. Most have sea views.
The minimalist blue and beige decor is designed to highlight the beautiful landscape and inspiring Mediterranean views. Chestnut wood furniture, granite tables, and linen upholstery complement the elegant design.
These impeccable hotels were chosen for their location, style, comfort, and service. We hope they provid the perfect home away from home while you are touring and exploring Israel.
The Mövenpick Nabatean Castle Hotel, Petra
2 nights
 The Mövenpick Nabatean Castle Hotel is a 10-minute drive from the entrance to the historic site of Petra. Situated at an altitude of 1,400 m, this hotel offers breathtaking views over sweeping hillsides. The hotel was designed by the recipient of the Agha Khan Award for Islamic Architecture, Engineer Rasem Badran.
Relax in the unique 110 sqm heated indoor pool located on the hotel's garden level. Surrounded with windows opened during summer, enjoy the view onto the private terrace.
All the hotel's 90 rooms and suites are spacious and most have extraordinary views over the Great Rift Valley. Interconnecting rooms and non-smoking rooms are available on request.
 All rooms are equipped with hairdryer, digital satellite TV, direct-dial phone, coffee and tea-making facilities and air-conditioning. A special benefit is our free minibar, available in all rooms.
The hotel's Al Madafa main dining room and the Al Nadeem Bar, each with its own terrace, invite you to relax and enjoy life.
Recreational facilities cater for young and old, whatever the weather. Swim in the 110-square metre heated indoor pool, or relax on the large outdoor terrace after a strenuous workout in the fully equipped gym.
The Kempinski Hotel Ishtar - The Dead Sea
2 nights
 Hidden away for centuries in the cradle of history and the lowest point on Earth, Kempinski Hotel Ishtar welcomes you to the world's oldest and very first natural spa – The Dead Sea!
The Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea offers three luxurious enclaves set amidst gardens dotted with lagoons, waterfalls and private pools, where ancient olive trees mingle with bamboo palms, providing guests with absolute privacy in a serene and exclusive setting. Designed in affectionate tribute to the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, the Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea is built with local stone boasting 345 rooms and suites within a stylish Arabesque monument building that weaves clean and simple lines into an Arabian theme.
All rooms and suites are enriched with quintessential facilities, luxurious Dead Sea inspired amenities, and complimentary benefits.
 From prolific infinity pools to soothing treatment rooms. Our facilities are at your disposal to help you create your private sanctuary of healing and enchantment. The resort is exclusive to resident hotel guests only. Plunge into the popular Lazy River during the day, get that perfect tan by the modernly designed Sunken Pool. Take a gentle swim at sunset in the Ashur Pool, then top it all off with a brisk lap under the starry sky in the Akkad Infinity Pool. Take your pick from several heated and non-heated pools.
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