Israel Vacations photo provided by Israel Tourism Bureau

Discover your own oasis within the history-rich destination of Israel.  An alluring location, dense in it's offerings of activities, attractions, cuisine and educational opportunities, Israel welcomes it's excursionists with an inescapably endearing charm.  As is well known, three major monotheistic religions declare Israel their divine home, creating a radiantly multifarious populace, unique only to this region of the world.  For newcomers in search of a genuine "Israeli" meal, a delightfully roguish smile of any Israel inhabitant will quickly convey the inexistence of one customary dish due to the extraordinary medley that is Israel's scrumptious menu.  Influenced by immigrants from Eastern Europe, Asia, the Orient, Africa, and southeastern Europe, Israel's entrees feature unforgettable cuisine embellished by such spices as caraway, onion, mint, coriander, cardamom, garlic and black and green pepper. 

As equally rich and diverse as the menu of Israel, are the historic sites that provide those who behold them a rapturous sense of awe and astonishment.  The Old City of Jerusalem, seemingly full to capacity with deep religious content, sets followers shoulder to shoulder, while it houses the Western (Wailing) Wall for those of Jewish Faith; the illustrious Dome of the Rock, from where Islam's prophet, Mohammed, departed destined for heaven; and Via Dolorosa, where one can follow the route of Christ's passion to the Church of the Holy Sepulcher.  The Dead Sea scrolls find their home here as does the Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial where the Israeli government has brought almost all high-ranking foreign guests.

A trip to Israel is not complete without a sunrise hike to Masada, an ancient fortress originally constructed by Herod the Great in 36-31 BCE.  Perched upon the cliffs, this castle served as a stronghold of Zealots, protecting this last remaining center of Jewish resistance from the belligerent siege of the Romans.  As a marvelous repose from all you have absorbed, take a soporific dip in the Dead Sea, where utterly no further exertion is required of you; the power of all the knowledge you have gained so far, as well as a touch of the sea's salt, will keep you afloat. Enjoy! You deserve it!