29 Mar 2023
ONE OF A KIND PRIVATE TOUR EXPERIENCE !!
General information:
-This tour is suitable for couples, families, solo travelers, and groups.
- Although it is a 10-hour tour, the car ride does not feel exhausting and is actually enjoyable.
- The travel through the city felt comfortable with no feelings of safety concerns.
- Bring your own water bottles. Bring your own towels should you choose to swim in the Dead Sea.
- You can tailor your trip with Avi if you have specific sites you'd like to visit!
The trip began with a pick-up at our residence (Airbnb) at 08:30 am from our guide who goes by the name of: "Avi Kappach". We embarked on the private spacious shuttle bus and hit the road toward our first stop!
Stop #1: Abbaye de Latroun
Nearly 30 min afterward we arrived at the “Abbaye de Latroun”, one of Israel’s monasteries and wine producers. We were told that this monastery produces no more than 10 000 bottles per year and keeps its production fairly small which made it even more of a special experience. We were warmly greeted by the locals and offered a wine tasting ( yes a little early in the morning but it was very enjoyable). We tasted a variety of different red and white wines and brought some souvenirs back with us. Next, we headed in the direction of the Dead Sea where we had the opportunity of experiencing an extremely beautiful drive across the desert passing Jerusalem and many small villages. We were given very important cultural knowledge of the cities and villages we were passing and got to experience a very unique landscape.
Stop #2: Dead Sea Cosmetics Factory "Ahava"
After driving through Israel for approximately an hour, we arrived at the factory “ Ahava” where they produce many of the world's cosmetic products using the minerals and secrets of the Dead Sea. We were also greeted by the friendly staff who showed us a private short movie about the production and history of this unique place. We were able to buy a few products to bring home as well as offered free samples to try out.
Stop #3: Dead Sea and Lunch Experience
Following this great introduction, we were taken to the Dead Sea where we got to experience floating in the sea as well as the mudding of our bodies which was a lot of fun! We also had a lovely lunch directly facing the Dead Sea at this cute little restaurant on the beach. We then took a shower and hopped back on the shuttle bus towards our last destination: Jerusalem.
Stop #4: Jerusalem Tour
Prior to entering the old city we passed through and witnessed several sites: Mount of Olives, Mount Zion, City of David...Upon arriving in Jerusalem we parked the shuttle and jumped directly into the old town . We roamed the small streets and alleys of Jerusalem as our guide shared information on this historical city. We traveled through the markets, and the Western Wall of the temple, passed by the different holy sites as well as walked the famous "Via Dolorosa " which is said to be the path Jesus took on his way to his crucifixion and resurrection.
After experiencing Jerusalem for about 2 hours we headed slowly back to our drop-off and experienced the beautiful sunset through the hills of Israel.
This was by far one of the most memorable tours we have done as frequent world travelers and this was due to the incredible guide Avi, the very hospitable locals, and the wonderful land of Israel.
We strongly recommend this tour and give it 5 stars !!
Thank you again to all the team who made this a wonderful experience of a lifetime!
Until next time!