Walk or run, it's all Holy

Running the streets of Jerusalem...

In my childhood home was an iconic picture of my father crossing the finish line at the New York City Marathon. New York has it, Spain’s got it, and Jerusalem’s now on the map. Israel is about to join the ranks of major cities around the world in hosting their first international full length marathon, recruiting top runners to join the competition on March 25, 2011- a nice calm time between Purim and Passover in Israel.

Watch the world’s most renowned distance athletes racing neck to neck for 42 K around the Old City and all of Jerusalem’s most famous sites. If you’ve never been privileged to watch a marathon unfold, make sure to schedule this jaw dropping event on your itinerary.

The race course can be viewed at http://liner.co.il/marathon/index_eng.html. Jerusalem traffic is going to be crazier than usual, Israel hotels fuller than usual (is it possible?), and post-race bars filled to capacity (hooray!). Seriously though, there is nothing better for runner morale than crowd encouragement, so saddle up alongside the course and be a part of the rambunctious cheering squads (we at Shalom Israel Tours encourage everyone to bring their air-horns and cow bells, why not?). The finish line will be at Gan Sacher, with wild celebrations, a festive atmosphere, and the much anticipated award ceremony.

Better yet- tie up your laces and join the race! All ages and skill levels welcome. Be one of the 20,000 expected brave participants, sign up for the 42 K marathon, a 21 K half marathon, or a 10 k race- after all our sages teach that just walking 4 feet in Israel is a mitzvah, imagine how holy you’ll feel after running 42 K!

Originally blogged at http://shalomisraeltours.com/running-streets-jerusalem/

Israel Bar Mitzvah & Bat Mitzvah Tour

June Bar & Bat Mitzvah Tour in Israel http://ow.ly/3pSlz Jerusalem, Masada, Tzfat- lot's of options for B'nai Mitzvah ceremonies!

Israel Tour Program Samples

We put 7 amazing Israel Tour sample programs online http://shalomisraeltours.com/category/sample-custom-israel-tour-itineraries/ and we have dozens more ready to post!

Israel Wine Tour

Attention wine & food aficionado's- we're creating an Israel wine tour like you've never seen http://shalomisraeltours.com/israel-wine-tour/ seriously amazing!

[A] Better Place...

Better Place

On your next Shalom Israel Tour visit [a] “Better Place” in northern Tel Aviv, the world’s leading electric vehicle company. Better Place is focused on moving the world from oil-based to zero-emission vehicles powered by electricity from renewable sources. Israel is building the world’s first electrically car grid and Better Place is at the heart of this venture- learn about Better Place and test drive an electric car!



Better Place was founded by Shai Agassi in 2007. This vision was inspired by a profound question posed at the World Economic Forum in 2005, “How do you make the world a better place by 2020?” With a passion for tackling large-scale challenges, Agassi sought to answer this question with a pragmatic solution to free cars from oil, reduce harmful tailpipe emissions, and usher in an era of sustainable transportation.

In 2008, Israel became the first country—and The Renault-Nissan Alliance the first carmaker—to embrace the Better Place model of building open network infrastructure to enable mass adoption of electric vehicles and delivering transportation as a sustainable service. Denmark, Australia, California, Hawaii, and Ontario have followed suit. Today, Agassi and Better Place are in discussions with many countries, carmakers and other potential partners around the globe.

originally blogged at http://shalomisraeltours.com/better-place-electric-cars/

Dental Work Israel

Shalom Israel Tours is pleased to announce our new partnership with Tour & Smile Offering Dental Work in Israel- amazing! http://mim.io/80e87

DENTAL WORK IN ISRAEL

Dental Israel We've had several requests for info regarding dental tourism to Israel, so here it goes- Being a leader in medical technology, Israel offers affordable, top quality dental care at savings of approximately 60% of costs in North America. If you have community members needing dental implants or other types of dental surgery, please contact us for details about how they can save money and experience Israel at the same time

2011 Israel Tour Schedule

2011 Israel Tour Schedule is online!

http://shalomisraeltours.com/group-tours/

Two Awesome Facebook Pages for Israel

Awesome Israel Facebook Groups:
Shalom Israel Tours http://goo.gl/DzWIU
I Love Israel http://goo.gl/2TQM3

Pomegranate Wine in Israel - an awesome wine in a beautiful region

Rimon Winery is owned and operated by the Nachmias family, a third generation farming family who were among the founding fathers of Moshav Kerem Ben Zimra in Israel’s Upper Galilee. Experienced farmers, the family dedicated themselves to growing the highest quality pomegranate fruit in the world. These special pomegranates, famous for their very high juice content, soft tannins, and rich flavors, are critical to the success of the Rimon Wines.

Rimon Winery is a wonderful place to include in your tour in Israel.  Opposite Dalton Winery and not far from Meron and Tzfat, the Rimon Winerr has a quaint dirt road leading through the fruit fields and a small yet beautiful visitor center.

Rimon wines are more than the produce of orchards and wine barrels; they speak of the traditions of the Holy Land and the heart and soul of the Nachmias family.

Originally blogged at http://shalomisraeltours.com/pomegranate-winery-israel/

Shalom Israel Tours - in the news!

Shalom Israel Tours, a story to be told!

Originally blogged at: http://shalomisraeltours.com/shalom-israel-tours-news/

Oil Exploration in Israel

I had the pleasure of visiting Zion Oil in Caesarea, Israel’s premier oil exploration company.  Although not the only company in Israel looking for oil, Zion Oil is unique in that their company was founded by a Texan, a Zionist Christian who turned to the bible for guidance and direction in helping Israel.

Bringing together the best exploration  team in world, Zion Oil is hot on the trail to creating oil independence in Israel; this video is a must see: 

The Joseph Project 2010 from Zion Oil & Gas, Inc on Vimeo.

We started in the office and learned about the history of the company, the intense geological work involved in their search, and ended the tour on the actual rig seeing Zin Oil in action.

I want to thank the crew at Zion Oil for the kindess in accommodating my visit and we look forward to bringing tourists to see your rig and learn about your important work!

Originally blogged at  http://shalomisraeltours.com/oil-exploration-israel/

Israel Football League

For an exciting evening with your family or group, attend an American full-contact football game in Israel! To tourists coming from the US this might sound a little hokey, but I assume you it is high quality athletics and highly entertaining!

It has now been four years since the dream of tackle football in Israel really took hold. What began as a group of 25 enthusiastic and energetic Sabra athletes playing without pads in the Tel Aviv Sportek has grown exponentially into a thriving community of more than 600 players country-wide.

The unique partnership with the Kraft family, owners of the NFL’s New England Patriots, has allowed the Israel Football League to cultivate a strong relationship with one of the greatest football organizations in the world and grow to seven teams nationwide. The Kraft Stadium in Jerusalem is overflowing with excited spectators, vendors serve hot dogs and tap beer, and the announcer gives play by play commentary.

After dinner on a Thursday night, head down to the Kraft Stadium in Jerusalem, right next to Gan Sacher and in walking distance of almost any hotel, you won’t be disappointed!

Originally blogged at http://shalomisraeltours.com/israel-football-league/

Jerusalem Hotel Spas – Spa-ing in Style!

It should come as no surprise that five of the best spas in Jerusalem are located at five of the best hotels in the city.

The hotels boast luxurious settings, nice swimming pools, fitness centers, and to-die-for spa facilities. Many of the hotels offer free access to the pool and fitness center with the purchase of a spa treatment. Note, however, that these treatments will cost you a pretty penny.

Some of the most decadent spas in Jerusalem include:

1.      Ramada Hotel Spa – Facilities include indoor and outdoor heated pools, tennis courts, health club, sauna, and Jacuzzi. There are Ayurvedic treatments, including hot stone therapies.

2.      Mount Zion Hotel Spa – Facilities include an outdoor pool, outdoor Jacuzzi, fitness center, and authentic Turkish steam bath (Hammam). Spa treatments are available in private rooms or in the Hammam.

3.      Inbal Hotel Spa – Facilities include an outdoor heated pool, dry sauna, steam bath, and fitness center. There's a nice grill restaurant by the pool, which is open year-round (covered by a large dome in the winter). Special spa treatments include Hot Stone, Four Hands, Body Peeling, and others.

4.      King David Hotel Spa – Outdoor pool (with poolside restaurant), tennis court, and fitness center. Spa treatments include Shiatsu, Thai massage, Reflexology, Tuina, a deep cleansing and exfoliating facial treatment, and others.

5.      David Citadel Hotel Spa – Facilities include outdoor heated swimming pool (with pool bar), gym, and others. The long spa treatment menu includes treatments inspired from around the world—Indian, Chinese, and Middle Eastern treatments for full body and mind relaxation.

Enjoy your day at the spa! 

originally published at http://shalomisraeltours.com/jerusalem-spaing-style/

Carmel Wines Israel: Not Just for Kiddush Anymore

Remember when Carmel wine was only known for its grape juice and Kiddush wine?  Well, not anymore.  In the last 10 years, the Carmel Winery has become a powerhouse in the global wine market, with four facilities processing wine from over 3,000 acres of vineyards spanning the length of Israel, bottling over 15 million bottles a year.  Adam Montefiore, Carmel’s Wine Development director was interviewed by Israel21C after Carmel won an international award for its excellent wine.

In the 2010 Decanter World Wines Awards (The “Oscars” of the wine awards, as Adam tells it), Carmel Winery’s Single Vineyard Shiraz, 2008 won one of only 27 trophies for nearly 11,000 entries, winning for red Rhone varietals in the upper price category.  The Decanter Judges Panel described the wine as “intense and voluptuous on the palate, plenty of oak with great persistence and texture.”  Wow!

Montefiore told Israel21C that he considers Carmel’s current resurgence to be more of a comeback than a novelty, as his winery returns to its former international status – established in 1882 as a Rothschild-backed cooperative, winning awards in the international arena in the early 20^th century.

Carmel has great wine workshops and winery tours at their Zichron Yaakov facility, which makes a great addition to any tour itinerary in the Haifa Region.  Having an expert explain the complex tastes of an award winning wine is always an enjoyable, memorable experience.  So have fun!

Originally published at http://shalomisraeltours.com/carmel-wine-award/

Israel Tidbits

A Round Up of Recent Tourism News

Renting a car during your next visit to Israel? Yisrael Katz, Israel’s Transportation Minister, agreed earlier this month to raise the speed limit on several major Israeli highways. On Highway 1 between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, on Highway 4 between Rishon L’Tzion and Ashdod, and on Highway 431 between Rishon L’Tzion and Modiin, the speed limit will increase 10 kilometers per hour from 100 kilometers per hour (62 miles per hour) to 110 kph (68 mph). On Highways 2, 5, 20, and 40, the speed limit will increase from 90 kph (55 mph) to 100 kph (62 mph). Pay attention to signs – not everything is speeding up – many major local roads will be lowering their speed limits. Also, don’t forget that Shalom Israel Tours has awesome pricing on car rentals in Israel.

One of Israel’s major supermarket chains, Super-Sol (or Shufersal), just launched a new natural foods line called Super-Sol Green. So far, there is only one Super-Sol Green “store,” located within the larger Super-Sol Deal in Raanana, but by the end of the year three more locations plan on opening at other Super-Sol Deal and Super-Sol Big branches. Super-Sol Green, a store within a store, will be competing with Eden Teva Market, Mega’s natural food store within a store offering. More great grocery options for vacation renters!

According to a recent Janglo news story, Israel’s southernmost city, Eilat, is embracing a more traditional, religious atmosphere. This is evidenced by the increase of synagogues, kosher restaurants and hotels, religious councilmen, and mikvahs in the city. Eilat has always trended towards a purely secular reputation, but it is now suggested that 20% of the city’s residents are religious, making it a great tourism option for even the most religious families.

Think Israel’s claim to fame is all historic and religious? Think again – Israel’s recent appearance at the Global Food Marketplace convention in Paris put Israel on the map for its exceptional food! But, then again, if you’ve visited Israel before, then this is old news for you.

Great stuff, we love Israel!

Super Cute Israel Vid

Surfing in Israel

Surf’s Up! Top 10 Places to Go Surfing in Israel

Since summer just doesn’t want to seem to end this year, I suppose it’s not too late to post summer-themed info. After all, with weather still reaching high into the 90s, why not pick up that surfboard and head to the beach?

Israel’s beaches are some of the best in the region for surfing, mainly because of the seaweed- and shark-free, clear waters, the warm weather, and mid-sized waves. Pro surfers may complain that the surf’s not high enough, but for beginners and laid-back surfers, Israel’s beaches are supreme.

And best of all, as you can see by looking outside today, Israeli surfing can be done virtually year-round!

The water temperature in the summer can reach as high as 84 degrees Fahrenheit, with low swells at one and a half to three feet. In the winter, while the water does get considerably cooler (about 57 degrees), you’ll likely see more of the experienced surfers out on the waves, which can reach up to ten feet high in the cooler weather.

Below are Israel’s top 10 surfing beaches according to Israel21c.org

1. Hilton Beach, Tel Aviv
2. Maravi Beach, Tel Aviv
3. Dolphinarium Beach, Tel Aviv
4. Zvulun Beach and Dabush Beach, Herzliya
5. Kontiki Beach and Sironit Beach, Netanya
6. Beit Yannai Beach, Netanya
7. Shonit, Sdot Yam beaches, Caesaria
8. Arubot Beach, Caesaria
9. Bat Galim Beach, Haifa
10. Goote, Delilah beaches, Ashkelon

So now you know where to go – now get out there and start taking advantage of this never-ending summer!

Originally blogged at Shalom Israel Tours http://shalomisraeltours.com/surfing-in-israel/

Challah Baking on Masada

This is a seriously cool event for families and community groups alike.  Designed for Bat Mitzvah girls, we shlep an oven to the top of Masada via cable car.

The Challah baking ceremony goes back thousands of years to the times of the first and second temple and has a special blessing for the occasion “l’friesh Challah”- to separate the Challah and designate a small portion for holiness.

Separating Challah is thus a symbol of giving something from ourselves and this is the significance of becoming an adult in Judaism- taking responsibility for others in Judaism and the world at large.  Judaism is about community, about family, about fixing the world; a meaningful Bat Mitzvah experience at Masada relates these values.

Originally blogged at Shalom Israel Tours: http://shalomisraeltours.com/bat-mitzvah-masada/

Worlds Largest Ferris Wheel to be in Israel

Jerusalem to Erect the World’s Largest Ferris Wheel!

What better way to view some of the holiest, most important sites in the world than from the top of what will be the largest Ferris wheel in the world?

That’s right – this summer the Jerusalem City Council approved the construction of a new Ferris wheel in Jerusalem that will replace the London Eye as the world’s largest Ferris wheel. The new Ferris wheel will be built on the grounds of the old train station and will afford a magnificent view of the Old City.

The London Eye is 135 meters tall and holds up to 800 people at a time. While the measurements for the Jerusalem Ferris wheel have yet to be specified, what we do know, is that it’ll be bigger than that!

Originally blogged at Shalom Israel Tours: http://shalomisraeltours.com/worlds-largest-ferris-wheel-jerusalem/

Israel's National Trail, but top to bottom.

Interested in taking a walk through the land of Israel? How about a nearly 100 kilometer walk across the country, from Kibbutz Dan near the Lebanese border to the north all the way down to the Red Sea to the south?

Known as one of the world’s great long long-distance trek, the Israel National Trail (INT), or Shvil Yisrael, enables ambitious walkers and hikers to truly experience Israel’s unique physical, religious, and ethnic landscape.

The trail is well-marked and ranges from easy to challenging. You’ll encounter parts of the trail that are completely out in the wild (keep your eyes peeled for wildlife), as well as small towns and kibbutzim where you’ll be invited in for a good night’s sleep and some home cooked food.
Please note: The INT is not just for Israelis – it’s becoming more and more popular among tourists to take on the trail as well. And of course, you don’t need to commit to the entire trail – choose a section of the country that most interests you and conquer the trail there.

Originally blogged at Shalom Israel Tours: http://shalomisraeltours.com/view-israel-foot-top-bottom/

The Worlds Second Longest Zip Line is in Israel

Zip Down the World’s Second Longest Zip Line!

When visiting Israel, it’s important to catch all the important historic and religious sites – but make sure you save some time for adventuring as well. Israel offers some of the best hiking and camping options in the world, as well as some of the best rock climbing, scuba diving, and zip lining.

In fact, did you know that the world’s second longest zip line, or Omega, is located just outside of Jerusalem in Gush Etzion?

Visit Deer Land Park, open throughout the year, to experience one of the biggest thrills of your life as you zip 600 meters across and 120 meters over a lush valley filled with trees and wildlife. There’s also a shorter Omega for younger kids.

Other events at Deer Land Park include rock climbing, bungee trampolining, paintballing, petting zoo, ropes course, 4×4 Jeeping, a carousel, kiddie train, and night camping in a Bedouin Tent.

The park truly offers guests a one-of-a-kind family-friendly adventure – definitely worth checking out!

Originally blogged at Shalom Israel Tours: http://shalomisraeltours.com/worlds-longest-zip-line/