Traveling with Polishing the Pulpit
John and Carla Moore | Expedition Guides
The Bible Lands Studies Program is organized through Bible Land Passages, a ministry of John and Carla Moore. John has been actively involved in ministry and Christian education since 1987 and is currently an instructor at Bear Valley Bible Institute International where he teaches a variety of textual classes along with a course on Bible land geography and archaeology. Having studied at Jerusalem University College, worked in archeological digs, and traveled widely in Israel and Jordan, John offers a unique perspective on the relationship between the Land of Israel and the Biblical Text. Carla serves as Dean of Women at Bear Valley Bible Institute and frequently lectures to women’s groups and preachers’ wives at schools of preaching. She is also a co-host of the weekly podcast “Looking Up! with Kathy and Carla.” John and Carla are also the founders and film directors of the Bible Land Passages documentaries series and Connection videos available on several media platforms.
Allen Webster | PTP Director
Allen Webster loves preaching the gospel, teaching students the Bible, planning church events, and writing for the Lord. He teaches in the Memphis School of Preaching and the Georgia School of Preaching. He is editor of House to House/Heart to Heart, writes for the Spiritual Sword, and has published many tracts and a few Bible Courses and books. He is a director of the Polishing the Pulpit Conference. When not teaching, he is on the road doing gospel meetings, “Reigniting the Fire” seminars, “The Bible’s Big Picture” weekends, and lectures/series.
Luke Griffin | PTP Director
Allen Webster loves preaching the gospel, teaching students the Bible, planning church events, and writing for the Lord. He teaches in the Memphis School of Preaching and the Georgia School of Preaching. He is editor of House to House/Heart to Heart, writes for the Spiritual Sword, and has published many tracts and a few Bible Courses and books. He is a director of the Polishing the Pulpit Conference. When not teaching, he is on the road doing gospel meetings, “Reigniting the Fire” seminars, “The Bible’s Big Picture” weekends, and lectures/series.
Jared Hueter | Architectural Historian
Jared Hueter AIA, NCARB is a graduate of the Fay Jones School of Architecture and Founding Principal of Ally Architecture in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Jared attended the University of Arkansas School of Architecture Rome Center located in the historic Palazzo Taverna. The Rome Center is one of the leading American educational institutions in Rome led by Italian Architects, Art Historians, and Architectural Historians. As Dean of Design at the Priestley Charter School of Architecture and Design, Jared led a high school study abroad program to Rome in coordination with the Rome Center and Tulane School of Architecture. Jared currently serves as a deacon and attends the East Ridge Church of Christ in Chattanooga, Tennessee with his wife and four children.
Itinerary
Optional Rome Excursion
Friday, May 24
Make your own flight arrangements and arrive at the hotel in Rome anytime on Friday. Overnight in Rome.
Saturday, May 25
Waking up in historic Rome is exciting. While the sounds of a busy city will be heard all around, your awareness of its enthralling and storied history will soon become clear as you make your way to Rome’s most iconic site—the Colosseum. This ancient stadium was used for more than four centuries for Roman entertainment including gladiator fights, wild animal fights, large mock combat engagements, and much more. As we are led by expert Italian guides in Roman history, imagine the horrific events that took place inside the Colosseum. From there we will visit the splendid Arch of Constantine, the biblically significant Arch of Titus, the Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. Our day will include a devotional at the Circus Maximus where numerous Christians lost their lives because they would not renounce the faith nor deny the name of Jesus. Our day will conclude with a visit to San Sebastiano Catacombs. Overnight in Rome. (Breakfast Provided)
Sunday, May 26
After an early morning worship service and a special study in the book of Romans, we will take a bus ride through Rome and view some of its historic sites and locations. Our day will include a visit to Nero’s Domus Aurea, and Capitoline Hill to visit the Victor Emmanuel II Monument, which overlooks the Julian and Augustinian Forums, and where we will see Piazza Venezia and in particular two areas: the Vittoriano monument and the Campidoglio Hill, which were designed by Michelangelo and have a wonderful view, from the back, over the forum. Along the way, we will visit Augustin Forum and see Trajan’s Column and the remains of the grand temple to Mars. Finally, our day will end with a visit to the Ara Pacis (Octavian’s altar of Peace) and at the Mausoleum of Augustus.
Monday, May 27
After breakfast, travel by bus to Vatican City and spend the morning walking through one of the largest museums in the world. Learn more about the history of Catholicism, see magnificent art treasures, view archaeological discoveries relating to the Bible, enter St. Peter’s Basilica, walk through the incredible map room, and visit the historic Sistine Chapel. Our afternoon will include a walking tour through some of the most iconic and familiar sites of Rome. We will see the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps, and the beautiful Piazza Navona. A highlight of the tour will include a visit to the historic Pantheon, one of the most influential and well-preserved buildings of ancient Rome. Overnight in Rome. (Breakfast Provided)
Tuesday, May 28
After breakfast, travel by luxury coach to Naples, where we will make a day of visiting the ancient ruins of Pompeii and see what life was like for citizens of the Roman Empire before the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79. We will see important buildings and structures such as the Basilica, the Forum, the thermal baths, a brothel, some residential homes, and more. The world-famous Pompeii is 150 miles south of Rome, fairly close to Naples.
Wednesday, May 29 (Israel and Rome participants)
Ride in a luxury coach bus to FCO (Rome’s international airport) where we will catch a morning flight to Tel Aviv. Arrive early afternoon at the Ben Gurion National Airport and then proceed to a field visit to the ancient Tel Gezer near the Aijalon valley. Recount the stories of Joshua fighting the Amorites and the importance of this location for one of Solomon’s chariot cities. Here we will discuss the importance of the Gezer calendar and learn about the archaeology of Israel. Overnight near Ben Gurion International airport. On the following day (May 30), join up with the Israel only group at the Ben Gurion airport.
Israel
Wednesday, May 29 (Israel only participants)
Depart from Newark
Flight Information for Israel + Airfare participants:
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United Airlines UA84 Departs Newark, NJ (EWR) Wednesday, May 29th 4:30 PM; Arrives Tel Aviv (TLV) Thursday May 30th, 9:55 AM
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United Airlines UA91 Departs Tel Aviv (TLV) Friday, June 7th, 11:25 PM; Arrives Newark, New Jersey (EWR) Saturday, June 8th, 4:20 AM
Thursday, May 30
After an early arrival at Ben Gurion National Airport, travel by luxury coach along the ancient Philistine coast to visit biblical Aphek/Antipatris where the children of Israel lost the beloved Ark of the Covenant and where Paul spent the night on the way to Caesarea. From here we will travel along the Via Maris and through the beautiful Sharon Plain. Our next stop will be New Testament era city Caesarea Maritima, the capital of Judea under the Romans. Visit the excavations of this ancient city and see where Paul made his defense before Festus and King Agrippa prior to his final journey to Rome. Overnight near Caesarea. (Dinner Provided)
Friday, May 31
After breakfast, begin the day in a devotional at the ancient Roman aqueduct along the Mediterranean shore. From here, travel to Beit She’arim National Park and see Mount Carmel from a distance. As time permits, we will visit the second century Jewish catacombs. Next, it’s on to Mt. Precipice for a lesson about the ministry and message of Jesus. Imagine seeing Jesus as a young boy looking out over this breathtaking vista. Contemplate the history and significance of the Jezreel valley below. Here we will orient ourselves to the many biblical places and sites to be visited and studied in the days that follow. From here will we travel to the boyhood home of Jesus and visit the Nazareth Village, a recreation of life during the time of Christ. Our next stop will be Tel Megiddo (near the battlefield of Armageddon), one of the oldest cities in the world, and where Solomon constructed one of his chariot cities. Lunch at Tel Megiddo will allow some extra time to visit museum exhibits, followed by a guided tour of the city where we will examine the remains of a Canaanite altar, an ancient underground water system, and much, much more. Our next stop will be near the ancient city of Jezreel where we will see the battlefield where Gideon routed the Midianites. On our way to the Sea of Galilee, we will pass along the base of Mount Tabor. Overnight at the Sea of Galilee. (Breakfast and Dinner Provided)
Saturday, June 1
Awaken to the picturesque scenery surrounding the Sea of Galilee. Travel near the ancient site of Bethsaida on our way to biblical Hazor, the largest archaeological site in Israel. Situated at the entrance of the Huleh Valley, Hazor was important to the Egyptians, Canaanites, Syrians, and Israelites. From here we will travel north to Tel Dan where a powerful lesson will be learned at the remains of an altar built by Jeroboam, and where we will observe some of the sites of the most important archaeological discoveries in Northern Israel. Then it’s on to the ruins of Caesarea Philippi (Banias) where Jesus made the promise to establish His church. We will walk along the beautiful headwaters of the Jordan River and end our day in the Golan Heights where we will see Mount Hermon in the distance and the route taken by Paul to Damascus. Overnight at the Sea of Galilee. (Breakfast and Dinner Provided)
Sunday, June 2
Watch the sun rise over the Sea of Galilee. Engage in private prayer and personal reflection as you imagine Jesus walking on the water some 2000 years ago. After breakfast, begin the day at yet another impactful vista on Mt. Arbel overlooking the Sea of Galilee. Visit the first century “Jesus Boat” museum at Ginosar and then take a scenic boat ride on the Sea of Galilee observing the environs and unique topography of its coast and surrounding mountains, and where we will partake of the Lord’s Supper. Following lunch, we will visit a first century synagogue at Magdala and then travel to Capernaum to walk among the ruins where Jesus made His home during His public ministry in the region of Galilee, and where we will continue our day of worship. Our day will end by traveling in the footsteps of Jesus on our way to Chorazin. Overnight at the Sea of Galilee. (Breakfast and Dinner Provided)
Monday, June 3
After one last look at the Sea of Galilee we will travel to Beit She’an National Park (Scythopolis) and see the Egyptian, Israelite, Roman, and Byzantine ruins of one the Decapolis cities of the New Testament era. From the top of Beth She’an we can look out over the Harod valley, see the mountains of Trans-Jordan, and gaze upon Mount Gilboa where King Saul met his death. From here we will travel along the banks of the Jordan River to Bethany beyond the Jordan and visit the traditional site for the baptism of Jesus, and then southward to the Judean Wilderness. Next, we will see Qumran where the most important discovery of the 20th century was made, the Dead Sea Scrolls. Here we will walk among the ruins of the Essene community and discuss the preservation and transmission of the ancient text. From here we will travel to Ein Bokek, a modern resort community perched along the shoreline of the Dead Sea. Overnight at the Dead Sea. (Breakfast and Dinner Provided)
Tuesday, June 4
Watch the sun rise over the mountains of Moab, eat breakfast at our resort hotel, and then travel by gondola up the steep mountain cliff of Masada. One of Israel’s most important national monuments and a world heritage site, Masada is the traditional site of King David’s stronghold and what would later become the site for an amazing fortress palace built by King Herod. Leaving Masada, we will travel to the ancient tribal territories of Judah and Simeon and into the Biblical Negev. Here we will walk in the footsteps of Abraham and visit the ancient tel of Beersheba (or Arad) and learn about the early water systems described in the Bible of both the Bronze and Iron Age eras. From here we will travel north to the valleys and hills of the Shephelah and over to the Valley of Elah where David fought Goliath. Here we will reenact that epic battle scene in our imagination as we read from I Samuel 17. Then it’s on to Jerusalem, passing the biblical towns of Beth-Shemesh, Zorah, and Emmaus. Overnight in Jerusalem. (Breakfast and Dinner Provided)
Wednesday, June 5
After an introduction to the city of Jerusalem, we will travel to the burial site of King Herod and see the ruins of the Herodium, an ancient palace fortress complete with the remains of a synagogue and elaborate tunnel system. From this location we will see the Shepherd’s fields near Bethlehem and recount the birth of King Jesus. From here, it’s back to Jerusalem to visit the Citadel, the likely place for the trial of Jesus. After lunch we will visit what many believe to be the remains of King David’s palace, see evidence of the Babylonian destruction, walk through Hezekiah’s tunnel, and see the Pool of Siloam. An optional guided evening visit to the Church of the Holy Sepulcher and the Western Wall will also be available after an early dinner. Overnight in Jerusalem. (Breakfast and Dinner Provided)
Thursday, June 6
Our day unfolds with a breathtaking view of the Old City of Jerusalem, including Mount Moriah and the Dome of the Rock, from atop the Mount of Olives. We will walk down to the Garden of Gethsemane and see the ancient olive trees. Here we will read the scriptures of Jesus’ prayer and arrest, and take time for personal reflection. We will enter the Old City walls through the Lion’s Gate and move on to the Pool of Bethesda and raise our voices in song in St. Anne’s Church. We then walk along the traditional site of the Via Dolorosa (The Way of Suffering), and then on to the Western Wall, the holiest site for Jews. Next, we walk among the Southern Wall Excavations of the Temple Mount and walk on stones that were in place during the time of Christ. We will see ancient baptisteries, remains of first century buildings, and end the day with a devotional on the first century steps which lead up to the southern end of the Temple Mount. If time permits, we will visit the Western Wall tunnels (ticket price not included.) Overnight in Jerusalem. (Breakfast and Dinner Provided)
Friday, June 7
Our final day will begin with a trip to Gallicantu, the site where it is believed that the Lord was imprisoned, and where Peter denied Jesus. Here we will also examine the topography and environs of ancient Jerusalem and sing a song inside a first century prison cell. Our journey will then take us to Yad Vashem (Jerusalem’s Holocaust Museum). After lunch our last stop will be at the Garden Tomb for a lesson about the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus. Then it’s on to biblical Kiriath Jearim for a final devotional and view of the Judean Hill Country, and then on to Abu Ghosh for a special Arab feast and farewell dinner. From here you will travel by coach to Ben Gurion Airport. (Breakfast and Dinner Provided). Depart Tel Aviv.
Saturday, June 8
Depart from Newark
Cost Information
Option #1 - Israel and Airfare
Israel only with Round Trip Airfare from Newark: $4,950 per person (double occupancy, if one person per room, a single supplement will apply).
Option #1 Includes:
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8 nights in Israel, 10 days of touring
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Luxury coach group transport to and from Tel Aviv airport
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Luxury coach transport throughout the tour
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All entrance fees, taxes and tips, fuel surcharge, portage, and guides
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All-you-can-eat breakfast and dinner buffets in Israel
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Instructional materials, maps, lectures, and biblical connections
Option #1 Does Not include:
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$1,185 Single Occupancy fee for Individuals in their own room
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Domestic flights, portage, or transportation to Newark
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Daily lunch
Option #1 Flight Information:
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United Airlines UA84 Departs Newark, NJ (EWR) Wednesday, May 29th 4:30 PM; Arrives Tel Aviv (TLV) Thursday May 30th, 9:55 AM
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United Airlines UA91 Departs Tel Aviv (TLV) Friday, June 7th, 11:25 PM; Arrives Newark, New Jersey (EWR) Saturday, June 8th, 4:20 AM
Option #2 - Israel Only, NO AIRFARE
Israel Only, NO AIRFARE: $3865 per person (double occupancy) – Participants are responsible for arranging their own airfare to and from Tel Aviv. Transportation to reach the main group already in Israel is NOT included. One person per room single occupancy fees apply.
Option #2 Includes:
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8 nights in Israel, 10 days of touring
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Luxury coach transport once you have joined the main group
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All entrance fees, taxes, and tips, fuel surcharge, portage, and guides
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All you can eat breakfast and dinner buffets in Israel
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Instructional materials, maps, lectures, and biblical connections
Option #2 Does Not include:
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$1,185 Single Occupancy fee for Individuals in their own room
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Domestic flights, portage, or transportation to Tel Aviv
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Daily lunch
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See Terms and Conditions for further exclusions.
Option #3 - Israel and Rome Excursion
Israel and Rome: $5,750 per person (double occupancy) – Does Not include airfare (except for one-way group airfare from Rome to Tel Aviv). Each person will be responsible for making their own flight arrangements to Rome and from Tel Aviv back to your point of embarkation in the US. One person per room single occupancy fees apply.
Includes:
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5 Nights in Rome
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9 Nights in Israel
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3 ½ touring days in Rome with Guide and Transport
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1 day touring at Pompeii with Guide and Bus Transport
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One way airfare from Rome to Tel Aviv with Portage
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10 ½ days of touring in Israel
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All you can eat breakfast and dinner buffets in Israel
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All you can eat breakfast in Rome
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2 evening meals at restaurants in Rome
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All entrance fees, taxes, tips, fuel charges, and licensed guides
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Portage upon arrival to Israel
Does NOT include:
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$500 Single Supplemental fee for Individuals in their own room in Rome
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$1,285 Single Supplemental fee for Individuals in their own room in Israel
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Airfare from Tel Aviv to and within the US
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Portage from airport in Rome to hotel
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Portage to Tel Aviv airport (unless you leave with Israel only group)
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Daily Lunches
* For Israel plus Rome participants, each passenger is responsible for making and purchasing their own flight arrangements (except for the one-way airline ticket from Rome to Tel Aviv).
Payment Information
Payment can be made by cash, check, or credit card. A non-refundable deposit of $300 per person is required to secure your reservation. Within 145 days of departure, 50% of payment is required and a supplement in airfare may apply. Balance of tour price is due upon receipt of final invoice, approximately 60 days prior to departure. Register and pay your deposit here. Deposit and online registration must be received to secure your place on the tour. See the full terms and conditions below.
Terms and Conditions
Eligible Participants and Maximum and Minimum Numbers Required
To safeguard the security and intent of the Bible Land Tour program, unless otherwise stated, the following rules apply to be eligible for participation in a Bible Land Passage tour: 1. Be a member of a local church, or be the spouse, family member or friend of someone who is traveling on the Bible Land Passages Tour; 2. You must also meet the physical and mental health guidelines as prescribed in the terms and conditions; and 3. Comply with all conduct and biblical principles of Christian decorum and practice.
To maximize the travel and tour experience and keep costs affordable, a minimum and maximum number of passengers is set between 24 and 50. To ensure your place on this unique tour, please secure your reservation immediately by completing the registration form and making your deposit. Registration forms will be processed on a first-come, first served basis.
Israel Tour Cost
The basic per person cost for sharing a twin room, including estimated airfare, is $4,950. Price is based on double occupancy. If you prefer single occupancy, add the $1,185 supplement. Please see www.biblepassages.net for terms, conditions, and expenses. To make your own flight arrangements, a “land-only” price is estimated $3,865 (see terms and conditions regarding portage).
Israel Tour Price Includes: Round-trip flights originating from Newark, NJ to Tel Aviv, and from Tel Aviv to Newark, NJ., (economy class) * Standard hotels (3 to 4 star hotels) * Delicious, all-you-can-eat breakfast and dinner buffets * Luxury coach transportation in Israel * All entry fees to museums, special sites, holy sites, areas of interest (except for optional visit to Western Wall Tunnels.) * Boat Ride on the Sea of Galilee * Tips for guides, drivers, bellmen * All known Airport taxes, service charges, government taxes, and fuel surcharges *One suitcase per person at airports and hotels * Israel maps and trip handouts * Instructional Lessons, Bible Applications and Connections, and explanations at all sites.
Price Does Not Include: Airfare or portage to and from original point of group embarkation (Newark). Passport (it is the responsibility of the Traveler to obtain and maintain a current U.S. Passport in accordance with applicable laws, rules, and regulations), phone calls, valet/laundry service, and other items of a strictly personal nature, excess baggage, beverages and meals not detailed in the itinerary (e.g., daily noon meal), optional excursions, health or trip insurance.
Travel Insurance: BLP highly recommends that you purchase travel/trip insurance. Airline tickets are non-refundable, and once final payment is made, it is extremely difficult to obtain even a partial refund from entities in Israel.
Hotels
Standard 3-to-4-star hotels throughout:
1 night at Hadera near Caesarea (Breakfast and Dinner)
3 nights at a Hotel near the Sea of Galilee (Breakfast and Dinner)
1 night at the David Dead Sea Hotel and Spa (Breakfast and Dinner)
3 nights at the Dan Panorama in Jerusalem
Eligible Participants
To safeguard the security and intent of the Bible Land Tour program, unless otherwise stated, the following rules apply to for participation in a Bible Land Passage tour.
You must be a member of a church or a close friend or relative of someone who is (references may be required).
You must be twelve years of age or older.
Those under the age of eighteen must be accompanied by an adult family member, legal guardian, or have special permission from the tour directors to attend. For a minor under the age of eighteen, in order to travel outside of the US without both parents or legal guardians, a notarized affidavit must be obtained and presented to airport or governmental officials upon departure and return.
You must have a valid passport not expiring within six months of departure date (for example, if your departure date leaving Israel – after your tour – is January 1, your passport must not expire before July 1 of that year.)
You must agree to the terms and conditions as outlined on the registration documents
You must agree to abide by the principles of conduct as outlined in the New Testament.
You must meet the health and physical disabilities criteria outlined below.
Deposits and Reservations:
To ensure your place on your desired tour, you must sign and complete the BLPT registration form, either online or via USPS mail, and make your $300 per person non-refundable deposit. Payment options are available. All passengers must have a valid passport, and it must be valid for 6 months BEYOND RETURN TRAVEL DATE (see example in number four above).
Cost: Each trip is organized in advance of airline and hotel pricing and is subject to change. Costs for respective tours can be found on respective brochures and literature. Pricing is estimated and is subject to change, but significant change is very unlikely. Basic costs are calculated on a per person cost for sharing a twin room. Pricing may or may not include airfare; be certain to see pricing specific to your desired tour. Single occupancy rooms are available but will include a substantial upcharge, as advertised on respective brochures.
Deposits and Final Payments:
Payment can be made by cash, check, or credit card. A non-refundable deposit of $300 per person is required to secure your reservation. Within 145 days of departure, 50% of payment is required and a supplement in airfare may apply. Balance of tour price is due upon receipt of final invoice, approximately 60 days prior to departure. To officially enroll, participants must enroll online at BiblePassages.net. See QR code in this brochure.
Payments
Payments and deposits (non-refundable) may be made by check, credit card, or ACH. To secure your place on the tour, we recommend that you make a deposit via the online registration process (see appropriate tour link here: www.biblepassages.net).
Cancellation/Refund Policy:
All cancellations must be received in writing. Due to our already low costs, we will not have excess monies to meet our contractual agreement with the airlines or Blue and White Israel Tours if you cancel after reservations are secured. If an emergency arises and you must cancel your reservation, we will do our best to refund as much of your money as possible. However, we may not know the full financial impact of your cancellation until the actual day of our departure. BLPT highly recommends travel/trip insurance. Airline tickets are non-refundable, and once final payment for the overall cost of the trip is processed, it is extremely difficult to obtain even a partial refund from entities in Israel. Cancellation penalty is as follows: 89-60 days prior to departure: 10%; 59-45 days prior to departure: 20%; 44-30 days prior to departure: 50%; 29-15 days prior to departure: 60%; 14 days & after, no refund is possible.
Space Is Limited
To maximize the tour experience and keep costs affordable, the number of passengers is set between 25 and 50. If the number of registrants falls below the 25-participant threshold, BLPT tour directors are authorized to cancel the trip altogether if needed. If for any reason a trip is cancelled due to insufficient numbers, all deposits and payments will be refunded in full. Registration forms will be processed on a first come, first served basis.
Vaccine Requirements AND Testing:
As of 3.14.22, proof of Covid vaccination will be NOT required.
Hotels and Accommodations:
Accommodations are based on three to four Star Hotel standards of Israel with two persons in a twin-bedded room w/ private bathroom facilities. Hotels charge per room. Tour price for rooms occupied by one person is higher than those with two or more persons sharing cost. Single rooms are available at a supplemental charge.
Tour amenities and inclusions
Each tour will include on its brochure items that are and are not included in the price. Typical tours often include (but are not guaranteed) the following:
Standard hotels
Abundant, delicious all-you-can-eat breakfast and dinner buffets
Luxury coach transportation
All entry fees to museums, special sites, holy sites, areas of interest (except on free days and activities not related to group events)
Tips for guides, drivers, bellmen
Airport taxes, service charges, government taxes, and fuel surcharges
One suitcase per person at airports and hotels
Maps and trip handouts
Instructional Lessons, Bible Applications and Connections, and explanations at all sites
Special farewell meal
Tour Pricing Typically Does NOT Include:
Airfare or portage to and from original point of group embarkation.
Passport processing fees (the Traveler must obtain and maintain a current U.S. Passport in accordance with applicable laws, rules, and regulations).
Telephone calls.
Valet/laundry service and other personal items.
Excess baggage.
Beverages & meals not shown in the itinerary nor reflected in the brochure.
Optional excursions.
Health or trip insurance.
COVID 19 testing if required.
LAND ONLY PASSENGERS are responsible for arranging and paying for portage to and from the group, if flight itinerary is different from the main group.
Participants From Outside the United States
Travelers whose origination point is from outside of United States are allowed to participate, but applications are subject to denial, and special rates may apply. Please contact BLPT for applicable details and costs.
Air Transportation & Airline Prices and Rules:
Airfare is aboard regularly scheduled air carriers. Once tickets are issued, they are non-refundable and non-transferable. Tour prices are based on current airfares and airline-imposed fuel surcharges, and other airline-imposed charges, any related taxes, and levies imposed by any government or its agencies, and are subject to change without notice. Any increases in airline fares, taxes and fees shall be borne by the passenger. Airfare pricing is not guaranteed until paid in full and tickets are issued. Name changes due to spelling corrections or to match passport names are subject to airline rules, and penalties for re-ticketing will apply.
Alcohol
The consumption or purchase of alcoholic beverages is strictly prohibited at any point during the tour.
Conduct
In an effort to ensure companionable group membership, Bible Land Passage Tours reserves the right to accept, reject, or expel anyone whose conduct is deemed incompatible with the general well-being of the group as a whole.
Meals
Land tours will include breakfast and dinner in Israel. Breakfast typically is only provided in Rome.
Tips and Taxes
All currently known government taxes, local taxes, hotel taxes & service charges, airport taxes, security fees and fuel surcharges are included in the advertised price. These taxes and fees are controlled by the Government(s) and are subject to change without notice. Any additional taxes are the responsibility of the passenger.
Sightseeing
Unless otherwise stated, program as shown in the Day-by-Day Itinerary includes entrance fees to sites. Fees to sites visited on Free Day are NOT included.
Mental Health and Physical Disabilities:
The passenger warrants that he or she is physically, mentally, emotionally and otherwise capable to endure the demands of the entire tour. Bible Land Passage Tours reserves the right to refuse passage to anyone with a physical or mental condition (in the opinion of Bible Land Passage Tours) that renders him or her incapable of participating in this tour or who (in the opinion of Bible Land Passage Tours) requires care beyond that which Bible Land Passage Tours can provide.
Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance (Trip and Health) is not included but is highly recommended. Each traveller must obtain it and pay all costs incurred.
Health Insurance
Health insurance is not included in the package but is highly recommended for any eventuality of illness, accidents, etc.
Luggage Restrictions and Packing
PLEASE PACK LIGHT (See www.ricksteves.com/travel-tips/packing-light for packing tips and for some ideas about packing light.) For ease of travel and to expedite moving from place to place with land transportation, we need to limit our packing to one medium size suitcase per person, and one small carry-on and/or backpack. Baggage handling for one standard size suitcase per person is included in the price. Due to limited motor coach capacity, this bag should have dimensions not exceeding 62 linear inches (length + width + height; including wheels and handles) and weight not exceeding 50 lbs. Passengers are responsibile for one carry-on and one personal item. Dimensions for carry-on bags are not to exceed 9” X 14” X 22” inches.
Luggage Restrictions for flights arranged through BLPT:
A single checked bag fee (meeting airline specifications) from the US to foreign destinations only is included in the price of the trip. All other costs incurred for baggage on domestic flights are the responsibility of the passengers and are to be paid by passenger directly to the airline at the time of check-in. Baggage Insurance is recommended. Bible Land Passage Tours is not responsible for loss or damage to passenger’s baggage or other belongings.
Clothing
Dress comfortably but modestly. Wear long pants or Capri style pants (local officials at some sites may not allow you to enter with shorts.) Some modifications may apply at Hezekiah’s tunnel and at the Dead Sea, etc.)
Travelling Overall
For security precautions please you not wear any visible images associated with your nationality on clothes, handbags, or caps. Please see the BLPT Travel Guide for full Details.
Passports
You will need a valid passport. Passports must be valid for 6 months PAST return travel date.
Responsibilities and Changes in Itinerary and/or Services:
Bible Land Passage Tours and Blue and White Israel Tours (BLPT & BWT) are acting merely as an agent for SUPPLIERS in selling travel-related services, or in accepting reservations or bookings for services that are not directly supplied by this agency such as air, ground transportation, hotel accommodations, meals, tours, cruises, etc. BLPT & BWT, therefore shall not be responsible for breach of contract or any intentional or careless actions or omissions on part of such SUPPLIERS, which result in any loss, damage, delay, or injury to you or your travel companions or group members. The airlines, hotels/lodges, motor coach companies and other suppliers providing services shall not be held responsible for accidents, loss of life, damage, baggage losses, or delays, due to strikes or to faults or defaults of any company used for the carrying out of this tour. The airlines and motor coach companies concerned are not to be held responsible for any acts, omissions or events during the time passengers are not on board their planes, buses or conveyances. In the event it becomes advisable for the comfort or well-being of the passengers, for any reason whatsoever, to alter the itinerary or arrangements, such alterations may be made without penalty to BLPT & BWT. Additional expenses, if any, shall be borne by the passengers. Unless the term “guaranteed” is specifically stated in writing on your tickets, invoice, reservations request, itinerary or vouchers, we do not guarantee any of such SUPPLIERS rates, bookings, reservations, connections, schedules, or handling of personal effects. BLPT & BWT its officers, owners, employees, and agents, shall not be held responsible, and shall be held harmless and released from any liability, for any accidents, injuries, illnesses, loss of life, damages, or losses caused to any Traveler in connection with terrorist activities, social or labor unrest, civil unrest, mechanical or construction failures or difficulties, diseases, local laws, climatic conditions, criminal or abnormal conditions or developments, or any other actions, omissions, or conditions outside of our control or due to any negligence. For information concerning possible dangers at international destinations, contact the Travel Advisory Section of the U.S. State Department. For medical information, call the Public Health Service. By embarking upon his/her travel, the Traveler voluntarily assumes all risks involved in such travel, whether expected or unexpected. The Traveler is hereby warned of such risks and is advised to obtain appropriate insurance coverage against them. The retention of tickets, reservations, bookings and vouchers after issuance shall constitute the entire agreement between BLPT & BWT and the Traveler.
Disclaimer
BLPT & BWT and/or its agents and their representatives abroad, act only as agents for the tour participants in making arrangements for hotels, transportation, touring, restaurants, or any other services in connection with the itinerary. They will exercise reasonable care in making such arrangements. However, they do not assume any liability whatsoever for any injury, damage, loss, accident, delay or irregularity to person or property because of any act or default of any hotel, carrier, restaurant, company, or person rendering any of the services included in the tours. BLPT & BWT, and/or its agents and their representatives abroad, accept no responsibility for any damage, delay, or injury due to sickness, pilferage, labor disputes, machinery breakdown, government restraints, hostile acts, terrorism, weather, acts of God, or any other cause beyond their personal control. BLPT & BWT, and/or its agents and their representatives abroad are not responsible for loss of or damage to your luggage, accidents en route, or ill health which may require travelers to miss parts of the tour or to return home without the group. No carrier shall be responsible for any act, omission, or event during the time tour participants are not on board its own conveyance. The tour programs are planned in advance. If between planning time and the actual tour operation, circumstances beyond control require changes, BLPT & BWT, and/or its agents and their representatives abroad reserve the right to vary itineraries and substitute components of tour programs. In the event it becomes necessary or advisable for any reason whatsoever to alter the arrangements or sequence of the itinerary, such alterations may be made without penalty to the operators. The right is reserved to accept or refuse any person as a member of the tour.