Frequently Asked Questions

The "Holy Land" is a modern country existing in today's turbulent times. Often one's imagination is necessary to see a place as Jesus himself may have witnessed it. It has been helpful for me, however, while journeying in His steps, to remember that Our Lord appeared at a time when the world was as ridden with political and religious problems as those we observe and experience today.

Will I be safe traveling with a tour in Israel and the Palestenian Areas?

Israel is not nearly as dangerous a place to visit as the headlines might have us believe. The country has a well-developed security system which no doubt contributes to its safety and which we will experience in detail at Ben Gurion Airport when we depart. As in any frequently visited area of the world, your safety cannot be completely guaranteed; tour agencies, however, are in the business of seeing that their clients fully enjoy their experiences. To that end, an agency such as ours (United Travel) is constantly aware of the possibility of any situation which would endanger its patrons and takes all precautions to avoid such episodes. Bus drivers and guides carry cellular and/or mobile telephone units and can receive information at all times relative to any unexpected events.

How should I act with the local people, both Palestenians and Israelis?

Most tourists are well received in Israel. Americans tend to be more curious about life, politics and religion than Europeans, and local people will be pleased to answer a tactfully posed question. It is well to realize that most residents of the country differentiate between governmental policies and the people themselves. I have enjoyed warm hospitality in this land. Be prepared to drink lots of delicious coffee and tea while visiting with shopkeepers in the Old City of Jerusalem!

What kind of treatment can I expect in places such as the Old City?

Rarely is it rude, and common sense as well as an awareness of the local cultures will ensure an enjoyable experience. Assuming responsibility for dressing conservatively and ignoring any negative or impolite remarks are important. Be sure to keep your purse over your head and one shoulder and be aware that pickpockets do exist. The Old City is generally very crowded, and as in any crowded metropolis you need to be smart about staying together and keeping alert.

What about rock-throwing and gunfire? Are we exposed to any of that?

No, although rock-throwing as a sign of Palestinian protest sometimes erupts in the West Bank. Our bus does not travel to areas known to harbor unrest, and consequently We should not experience any inconvenience. Occasionally we will hear "sonic booms" from the Lebanese border in the north, and we will be aware of armed Israeli soldiers throughout the country as well as Palestinian police in Bethlehem and Jericho.