World Leaders in Israel & Innovative Group Travel

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Today we are honored to feature a very special Guest Writer: Dr. Henry “Indiana” Jones. (Soon to be featured in an upcoming major motion picture!)

The year was 1936, and I was contacted by an old friend to search for a missing piece of an ancient Egyptian artifact. I accepted the challenge by donning my signature fedora and leather jacket. Next, of course, my tools of the trade: whip and sidearm, just in case some crazy sword wielding guy wants a showdown in the middle of the open air market. Markets can be sandy, you know, so I brought extra socks, too.

Next was the plane ride, which took shorter than expected, at the most 5-8 seconds, represented by a map of the world with a plane icon travelling over it, with the necessary red line extending out from behind the plane to show my flight path. Also, there was ‘exciting’ background music to prepare me for the next scene, I mean, adventure. I really don’t remember the actual landing, because there I was, just automatically at the airport!

I then met up with a ‘companion’, in this case, (as in most) it was an American woman in a foreign country, which in the 30’s was kind of rare, but at least she wasn’t a double agent this time. She made my trip to Egypt harder than it had to be, but in all honesty, we really had a connection, and she even accidentally helped me figure out of a couple of ancient pyramid riddles. I don’t really want to talk about the part with the snakes.

Eventually I found myself in this huge deepening plot, and instead of just trying to locate an artifact, I was saving the world from ultimate doom and destruction! Singlehandedly, (ok, I had some help!) Indiana Jones went far above and beyond anyone’s expectations, and really came through this time. And yes, I am referring to myself in the third person, because by the time the end credits came up, everyone was cheering for me, and I had a smile on my face bigger than Han Solo’s at the end of Star Wars.

You’ve done the meditation, the concentration, and the sitting on mats. You’ve pondered the sound of one hand clapping and studied the Four Noble Truths. But have you passed through the nose of Buddha? Well, what are you waiting for? In Nara, Japan, there is a temple with a large post with a hole carved into it. If you pass through the hole, you are on your way to paradise.

So visitors from all over wiggle their way through the hole and become one with the universe! Amazing! These people simply visit Asia and have achieved what takes others decades, just by having their friends or family members yank on their arms and coming out the other end! No reports as to how many people have gotten stuck, so they probably let visitors decide for themselves if they’re going to fit.

They say that the hole itself is the exact dimensions as one of the nostrils in the gigantic Buddha statue at the temple. And since you can’t go through that, this is the next best thing. What they don’t tell you is: why the hole is on the ground level? Maybe it’s the “humble” crawl/wiggle that creates a “rebirth” in the eyes of universe? Either way, it’s quite a unique experience!

Many countries have strange traditions you should be aware of when around the globe. Remember that world travel can have its share of unscrupulous people. Take Great Britian for example.

Translated: “What is it that revolves around the Earth?” The correct answer is “A”: The Moon. But if you travel to France, you just might be surprised that more than half (56%) of them believe that it’s the Sun. (B: “Le Soleil”)

Spain: Forget the running of the bulls, this is the running of the pool chairs. It’s a mad rush to get a good one.

When traveling to Sweden, be ever vigilant that their flexibility is only surpassed by their singing ability. Sorry, no translation available.

There is some good news, although one airline will drop you off directly on the beaches of a strange country called “Florida”, you should learn some of the local phrases, such as “Scuba-Do!”

We are joined here today with Co-Founder Iris Hami. Thanks for joining, us Iris.

1 - What improvements in the travel industry have you seen in the last few years?

The flow of communications has improved tremendously. Also, the ability to find information on the internet, as well as passing information to your clients has improved tremendously.

2 - Where are your favorite places to visit?

My top three are Israel, Argentina, and Italy.

3 - Have the flight check in automatic touch screens helped the lines go down at airports?

Yes definitely, I use them all the time.

4 - What are the most popular destinations for special occasions?

Florida and London are the top two right now.

5 - How important does learning the local language become?
Of course speaking the language at least a little helps you enjoy the destination much more, but we are lucky that today, more and more people speak English.

6 - What are the fastest rising trends in travel nowadays?

Trips with more active components (walking, biking), smaller groups, environmentally safe trips.

7 - Tell us about your guided tours and what people can expect from them.

Our guided tours are comprehensive. We try to use very experienced guides not only for their content knowledge but also for a good match with the client. For example – the worst thing is for a family to go to Israel with their children and the guide being an older person who is not sensitive to kids. Or a couple going to Prague to see their roots and the guide not knowing about the Jewish content sightseeing of Prague.

8 - What have airlines been doing to attract more passengers?

Special airfares, frequent miles tickets, better seating, faster internet check-in, even massages on some airlines.

9 - What is the best thing about Gil Travel, in your opinion?

Our vast knowledge of the client is of supreme importance. Whether it’s a couple, a family, a synagogue or church group or a large convention, our experienced staff is there to assist in all our clients’ needs.

10 - How would you help someone find that perfect vacation?

When a potential client calls our office, we direct them to the destination specialist. If he/she is not sure, we will ask pertinent questions to find his/her interests and then direct them to the appropriate department. Our website, Giltravel.com also has so much information and trip ideas. One can certainly get excited about a possible trip or destination by looking at our web site.

11 -What are some of the best ways for travelers to ‘broaden their horizons’?

Take trips to places that are very different from home, either culturally, geographically etc. There are so many options for people to explore. One can find a great trip for almost every interest.

12 - Do you offer safety or travel tips for clients to make the best of their trip?

Yes, our documents always include safety and important travel tips for the particular destination they travel to.

13 - What cultural differences should people be aware of when traveling?

One of the main cultural differences is gastronomy (i.e., in Europe, you will always find a McDonalds, but in Viet Nam, you will not). Another is the foreign language and whether the locals speak English (i.e. - In Israel, almost everyone speaks English but in China, very few do). Another is safety, (i.e. – wearing gold jewelry in Brazil). When travelling to a different country, it is important to have an open mind, try new things, whether it is the food, learn some new words in the new language, try to speak to the locals, ask questions etc.

14 - Does Gil Travel offer pilgrimages as well as standard recreational trips?

Yes, Gil Travel offers the gamut from individual family trips, to small church groups, to large pilgrimages to the Holy Land, such as Benny Hinn Ministries

16 - What do people sometimes forget when traveling to other countries?

To check regarding visas, health and vaccinations, time changes, heights of certain places, cultural customs, etc. That is why we are here.

This was all great information, thanks for spending some time with us, Iris!

This May will see the 60 year celebration of Israel’s independence. For six decades, Israel has made great strides in creating a country that easily rivals many others that have been around for much longer. The economy is bolstered by many international agreements, which in turn lends itself to many exports and companies coming to Israel to do business. This, in turn, has led to a huge rise in tourism, which Israel is famous for.

But Israel has also ranks high in science, education, and takes much pride in a strong military too. Israel enjoys all the high-tech advancements as any other country. In fact Israel has poineered many technologies that we just might take for granted! Here is a short video we like to call: CFAI: Cool Facts About Israel!

Israel can easily boast as to it’s strong economic entity, but also includes many governmental and social advances as well. The country enjoys being a stable international player in industrial and agricultural sectors. It also ranks highly with excellent arts, museums, and cultural centers for many who would come to this truly “Holy Land”! So Happy 60th Israel, and we hope to see what the next 60 years will bring!

Photo by Rodrigo Comisarenco

Before you travel to Israel, it’s a good idea to brush up on some cultural faux pas so you don’t step on anyone’s toes. Here are 9 tips for any traveler who might not be the most familiar with local customs.

(Note: Most of these only apply to religious Jews and Muslims. Since it’s generally better to be safe than sorry, I say shoot for “always” and “never” until the local you’re with says not to worry about it.)

1. When using public transit or attempting to enter any crowded area (like a bank, food markets, and other such very public places), don’t expect a neat and polite line. Use the gentle nudge of your elbow to get a spot - if not, you might never get in!

2. Refrain from greeting, touching or extending a handshake to Jewish and Muslim devout women. Men should wait for an Israeli woman to offer, if she even does at all.

3. If a man does not introduce his wife or daughters, overlook it and ignore them as well. It will be extremely disrespectful if you speak to, speak of, or look at any of them.

4. Never accept or give a gift with your left hand. The left hand and soles of feet are considered impure.

5. Do not order pork or any seafood besides fish when dining with the Jewish host. When dining with Muslims avoid pork and alcohol. Eat only with the right hand even if you are left-handed. Might be a good idea to practice that before you leave - it really is an acquired habit.

6. In certain settings it will be mandatory that you remove your shoes, like before entering a home. When removing shoes lay them on their sides with the soles facing each other. I still haven’t figured out the trick with sandals though.

7. Gesturing of all sorts is acceptable, but never point with the index finger. Thumbs should never point either, such as in a “thumbs up” or “thumbs down” gesture. Fortunately since you are typically lost when you travel to Israel, chances are slim you will mess up giving directions.

8. Never cross your legs in a manner that will allow them to see the bottom of your foot or shoe. Don’t bother arguing that they do it all the time when they pray, it’s pointless.

9. One of the most important customs for religious women in the country - knees and elbows must be covered and wear high collared clothes. Although this is optional for newcomers, it’s always best to avoid the strange looks and follow customs.

And here’s a bonus tip - always have fun when you travel to Israel! (which really is too easy…)

There is a place in Israel that is a place of healing, regrowth, and learning. The KKL-JNF has strived to make a difference in the Jewish homeland, and that impact is seen as a glorious success. The learning came from the fact that it’s not always best to change the way nature operates, because 50 years ago, it was thought that the swampy areas of Lake Hula should be drained. Only by reflooding the area and allowing nature to take its course has the Hula Valley seen the return of wildlife and plant growth.

And the benefits not only include a growth of tourism and sightseeing, but the project has seen hundreds of thousands of migrating birds to rest here. As the Hula Valley Restoration project continues, so does the research on just how important it is to assist nature to develop these areas. The KKL-JNF also strives to restore the embattled area of the Ramat Naftali Mountain Range, destroyed by bombings two years ago. This tragic event allowed developers to replant a variety of trees to allow for what they call a ‘diverse forest’.

Through this long term effort, Israel ended the twentieth century with more trees than it started with, a feat only achieved by a handful of countries. So not only birds, trees, but also water is sustained through the KKL-JNF. Water has always been a resource to be cherished in this dry land, so now more than ever, conservationists are working to use it wisely. What they have learned, is that all of nature must be thought of in harmony, in order to preserve it, and for citizens to benefit from it. This nature preserve is a great way to see the beauty of Israel, and the gorgeous life it holds.

Photo by Matias Sanchez

Maybe you have heard about the “lost” Ethiopian Jewish tribes. It may seem a little far fetched to think some Jews originate in Africa - but it is true, and their story is nothing short of remarkable.

They just wanted freedom - and when they couldn’t have that, they desperately desired the ability to travel to Israel. You too can come see what they so longed for and tour Israel as a group or individually.

Here is their story…

[Read more →]

In 1996 the wine consumption in Israel was only 3.5 liters a head; by 2004 it had doubled to 7 liters a head. The local market is worth US $170 million a year. It is a small, vibrant, & successful industry with a variety and quality that will surprise those who have not visited Israel recently. Here we take a look at some of the best wines from Israel.

Blanc du Castel from Domaine du Castel

It has been labeled as one of the best dry whites in Israel. There is generally good balance, some brightness, some depth, and a respectable finish that lingers and has some intensity. Domaine du Castel is one of Israel’s most prestigious wineries, invariably on most short lists in the “best winery of Israel” debate.

Golan Heights Winery Katzrin Yarden

Yarden’s upper level Bordeaux blends are impressive– although not just because the wine is good. The fruit seems more pungent, sweeter and riper as well. With air it rounds into form and acquires some balance, in fact seeming gentle and elegant eventually, given the well constructed mid-palate.

Barkan Cabernet Altitude +720

The wine is from the Dovev vineyard on Mt. Godrim on the Lebanese border. The wine has a deep concentrated purple, black color. The wine has a unique ”cold climate” aroma of eucalyptus, mint and coffee. The wine is intensely tannic, with tastes of cherries, cassis and herbs. The wine’s finish is both powerful and elegant.

Ben Hanna Winery: Shalem (Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot)

A purple red wine, with fruity aromas of plums, pepper and spices. A full-bodied wine on the palate, balanced and with tastes of Cassis, licorice and hints of coffee.

Flam Classico

Classico from the Flam Winery is a blend of single vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot - from two distinctly different terroirs, the Cabernet Sauvignon comes from a vineyard rooted in volcanic soil of the upper Galilee 700 meters above sea level. The Merlot is from a vineyard on the slopes of the Judean Hills on the way to Jerusalem.

Yatir Cabernet Merlot Shiraz 2004

Dark royal purple color, soft, with generous black currant, plum, and berry aromas. Best Served With: Medium flavored grilled or saucy chicken or fish dishes.

Margalit Wines

Margalit became Israel’s first official boutique winery, in the early 1990’s with their debut wine, a 1989 Cabernet Sauvignon. It met with immediate acclaim and swiftly earned Margalit a devoted following and a reputation for superb quality.

As we say: L’Chayim – To Life !!

If you like living here on planet Earth, and are socially conscious about its future, then ecotourism is for you! Imagine being able to visit a rainforest, not just learning about them on the world news. Imagine gaining personal growth from experiencing the environment you care about. This is ‘green’ travel. Also called ecotravel, or ecological tourism, people are going places to connect, learn, volunteer, and basically give their time to the earth. It’s kind of like an investment in their future and the future of their children.

The trip itself focuses on an active participation in making a difference in the environment and positive social movements. Even the traveling aspect of the trip strives to be green enough not to make create an ecological impact: such as following the mantra, “take only pictures, leave only footprints”. So it becomes a point of the whole trip to help make a change in the world, but also a change in the travelers themselves.

It’s the giving back that creates such a draw to people, and the opportunities range from a basic scenic experience to a full on involvement with local charities. But in order for a trip to be actually classified with the namesake ‘ecotourism’ the point is not just to ‘enjoy’ the environment, but to promote protection of it. What started as a general concept of “responsible tourism” has now become a driving force, especially in the sense that ecotourism is now a major part of some countries’ national economy, further assisting them.

Ecotourism has an impact just beyond bringing a higher awareness of helping our planet. The impact allows you to share what you have with others and pass it along. Just remember that the goal is to change the way you live where you are and change the place you visit. If you have the desire to help others or the environment, and would rather participate than just simply go somewhere, then ecotourism is a great way to spend your next trip!