Tauck To Launch Its First-Ever Tour To Israel

14-Day Itinerary Includes Five Nights In Jordan

NORWALK, CT (October 26 2009) Tauck will continue to expand its offerings in the Middle East next year with the addition of its first-ever itinerary featuring Israel. The company’s new 14-day “Israel and Jordan” tour will include a combined eight days in Tel Aviv, Haifa and Jerusalem before concluding with six-days in neighboring Jordan.

“Our guests have shown tremendous interest in the Middle East,” said Tauck CEO Dan Mahar, “and the addition of Israel is the next logical step in building our portfolio there.” Tauck launched its first tour in the region in 2006 in Egypt, and its success was mirrored by the strong performance of an Egypt and Jordan tour added the following year.

According to Mahar, the journey will explore the important roles of different religions within Israel, as well as non-religious influences ranging from the Roman occupation to contemporary art and design. “Early in the tour our guests will attend a discussion with members of the Jewish, Christian, Muslim, Baha’i and Druze faiths,” said Mahar. “The history and traditions of each religion will be explored, providing great context and perspective for the many iconic religious sites we’ll visit later in the tour.”

Those sites include Jerusalem’s Western Wall and the Dome of the Rock, the ruins of Masada, sites associated with the life and crucifixion of Christ, and iconic synagogues and mosques. Non-religious but equally compelling itinerary features include an exploration of the ruins of Caesarea, built by Herod the Great, a visit to the home and gallery of world-renowned artist Ilana Goor, and a cruise on the Sea of Galilee aboard the working replica of a historic 2,000-year-old fishing boat discovered nearby in 1986.

PETRA, THE DEAD SEA, AND MORE
The final five days of the tour are spent in Jordan, where guests will visit the ancient Roman city of Jerash, relax along the shores of the Dead Sea, and explore the 2,000-year-old city of Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Guests will gain further insights into Jordanian customs and history when they enjoy a Bedouin-style feast with a traditional dance performance, and as they travel along the 5,000-year-old King’s Highway to Amman where the itinerary concludes.

Tauck’s “Israel and Jordan” tour is priced from $4,790 per person, double, plus air, with departures scheduled for February through June and September through November. Included in the tour price are accommodations in five-star/deluxe hotel and resort properties, most meals, all sightseeing, admission to all attractions, all entertainment, airport transfers and more. Those interested in additional information can visit their local travel professional, call Tauck at 1 800 468 2825, or go to www.tauck.com.

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