The Land of Israel: Past, Present and Future : A Journey of Discovery

Because it is a 2-week program, and as a visitor to Israel for the first time, we were able to see more than the traditional Biblical sites. There was opportunity to see much more of Jewish culture and the "schizophrenic" nature of the country and its vast array of subcultures. I give it an A+.

An eye-opening tour with an itinerary that little by little created a greater understanding of the history, people, religions and present day geo-political situation of a complex and beautiful land.

Mind expanding trip. Loved the variety and details covered. Special speakers were great.

This was, in my opinion, the best of my eight Road scholar trips. The sets were very interesting and I learned a lot. David Wexler was a fount of information. I had only one bad experience, entirely unrelated to your effort. About two days before leaving, I felt I had a sinus infection, as did my colleague, Nancy. The doctor examined her and gave her 14 days of antibiotics. I had no congestion because my sinus were tight with infection. He failed to examine me. He didn’t listen to my chest, or look at my nose and throat. I got three days of antibiotics. That is a dangerous under treatment. Also after returning my companion got a sinus infection. Meanwhile I’ve been coughing for a month and my primary care physician said I had an elevated WBC. This was set up by the last hotel we were at for three days. Please don’t let them call this doctor ever again.

The Land of Israel: Past, Present and Future was probably the best travel experience I have ever had. It was a fast-paced, information and experience- packed trip that left us feeling like we had a very full, satisfying feast. We highly recommend it to anyone who wants to experience and learn about this most amazing place.

The history and diversity of this relatively small country came alive with Yossi as our outstanding tour educator. All the educators and places made me look at Israel in a new light. And it was also fun!

This was a most amazing program. I really wanted to learn about Israel, having heard so much about it from friends and members of my extended family. The educational value and the diversity of our fellow travelers added wonderful dimensions to the trip. In 14 days, we saw all of the major historic and religious sites of all three major religions. And my interest in deepening my understanding of my Jewish heritage was definitely addressed. I cannot think of a better way to deepen and expand my knowledge of Israel and the geo political factors that influence this amazing country today. Kathy Kram

This tour was indeed “A Journey of Discovery”. I learned a lot about the beautiful country of Israel, and also some things about myself. The two weeks went by quickly, and a lot is packed in. Our tour guides, David and Cheryl, were fantastic. They were with us every step of the way, and they seemed tireless. The book they gave us the first night, packed with historical and practical information, proved to be invaluable. All that said, the emotional response of many of us (23 in our group) was overwhelming and beautiful, especially at The Western Wall. I did not expect to be so moved. Seeing Christian pilgrims carry heavy crosses up the Via Dolorossa was another moment. (I could not shop for souvenirs there.) At the Southern Wall of the Temple Mount we stood on stone stairs that Jesus most likely used to enter the Temple to teach and pray. There were so many moments that meant a lot, it’s impossible to relate them all. As a solo traveler I felt very included and welcomed. And not afraid. Our travels throughout Israel felt safe. Also, this tour had a personal vibe that was not there in my 2 previous Road Scholar trips. If you have any desire to go to Israel, this tour was a wonderful experience. Five stars, for sure.

This trip was amazing. The group leaders David and Cheryl were outstanding and so knowledgeable. I loved it - best trip ever.

This program was outstanding in its scope covering many important spiritual and historical sites. However, prospective candidates for this program should be aware that it is quite physically rigorous. The hotels were all of good quality and the meals were quite delicious with many food choices. David Wexler, tour guide was exceptionally knowledgeable and a terrific communicator.