Question 1

What are the Booking and Cancellation Policies?

Accepted Answer

HOW TO CONFIRM A BOOKING:
In order to hold a time slot for a tour, there's a non-refundable 25% deposit for guiding fees payable by credit card. I will send a secure link for payment. Balance is due a week before the tour day and is non-refundable. If you need to cancel less than one week before the tour, you can receive a credit for a tour another time.  I will send a link to pay the balance and a separate link to pay the entrance fees.  In case of a last minute, situation that the guide is unable to guide the tour (such as illness), another expert guide will be provided for the same route and price. If it's not possible to run the tour due to snow, an unexpected state visit, or other emergency affecting Jerusalem, 75% of the guiding fee will be refunded and 25% can be used towards another tour.

Drivers:
Most drivers require payment in cash on the tour day. In the event of cancellation within one week of the tour, there may be a 50% cancellation fee.

TRANSPORTATION ON TOURS: In order to provide the best service in terms of quality and safety, I do not offer tours in which clients drive rental cars. Drivers are specially licensed to drive tourists in Israel and drive approved air-conditioned cars, vans or buses depending on the size required. Drivers in Jerusalem generally charge approx 225 shekels per hour.  I provide the estimated cost for transportation before you pay the deposit. 
​
IMPORTANT TO KNOW:
 • WHAT'S INCLUDED: Guiding fees do not include entrance fees, transportation, or meals, if any. All fees are detailed in advance. Guiding fees include a 15-minute phone consultation, developing an itinerary and making any necessary reservations for the tour day, games and prizes for children as well as guiding the tour.  
 • CHANGES: If there are changes once the itinerary is set (for example changing the date or destination) that require rescheduling reservations, there might be an additional fee.
 • FULL TRIP ITINERARIES: Although I do not book reservations for drivers or sites on days that I am not guiding, I can refer you to some excellent trip and events planners who can do so at reasonable rates, as well as making arrangements for hotels or vacation rentals and planning bar/bat mitzvah parties. 
 • WEATHER: In the event of rain, there may be additional entrance fees in order to spend more time at indoor sites. I will discuss this with you in advance of the tour. If there is extreme weather such as snow in the Jerusalem area (rare) or State visits (which are often announced only at the last minute)in which streets and sites may be closed, the tour may be canceled the day before the tour and any payment would be refunded. A guide can refuse to do a tour if participants do not wear hats in hot sunny weather.
 • PLEASE ARRIVE ON TIME: If your group arrives late or takes breaks that are longer than planned, it might not be possible to complete the planned itinerary.
 • TIPPING: Like in many places, tipping 10-15% for services is customary. It's important to tip well in restaurants (in cash, not by credit card) if you are pleased with the service because many waitstaff rely on tips for their income.
 • INSURANCE: Travel health insurance is essential. I recommend trip cancellation insurance as well. For an excellent local agent contact Yonah Engel travelinsurance36@gmail.com (travelinsurance36@gmail.com)

Question 2

How Should I Prepare for My Trip?

Accepted Answer

ESSENTIAL TO ARRANGE:
1)Passport: make sure each member of your family has a valid passport (it must be valid for at least 6 months after your scheduled return date).
2)Travel insurance is highly recommended to cover cancellation fees if needed for any reason.
3)Health insurance - including Covid can be a good idea.
4)Phone: Having cellphone service and data will help make your trip run seamlessly! Ask your local provider about options for data and voice calls. Make sure to clarify the arrangement for text messages. Another option is to rent a local sim card from www.talknsave.net (https://www.talknsave.net/)Whatever you choose, you will be happy to be able to easily contact your driver, guide or others as needed.
5) Credit cards/bank cards: let your providers know you will be in Israel so they will honor charges. Find out what fees the various cards charge for use overseas so you can choose the best option and make sure you know your PIN number for those cards.
PACKING:
Warmer Months (June - September):
Having a safe and enjoyable trip depends on the right warm weather gear.
1) Hats are absolutely essential for tours. You don't usually wear hats? Try some different styles and choose 1 or 2 you will have fun wearing as your "Israel trip hat."
2) Everyone will need to drink a lot of water to stay hydrated and healthy. In order to do so, you'll need a comfortable way for each one of you to carry water such as a backpack with an outer pocket.
Do you want to keep super cool in the hot summer weather? Freeze half a bottle with water in your rental apartment, carry in an insulated water bag, refill throughout the day and enjoy ice cold water wherever you go.
3) Sunscreen is vital. Best to bring some you like from home to get started from Day 1, and buy extra in Israel as needed.
4) Sunglasses and light, comfortable clothing for being active outside will be helpful.
5) Many areas have uneven or slippery pavement, so you may prefer that all the shoes you bring will have good treads and support. Of course, you'll want a really good pair of walking shoes for touring days.
6) If your itinerary includes water hikes or swimming in the Dead Sea, you will need some water shoes that hold the foot and have good treads (preferably not flip flops).
Cooler Months (December - February)
On tours in Israel, you might spend more time outside in cool weather than you normally do at home in winter. In mountainous areas such as Jerusalem, winter days can be very cool (just above freezing) and sometimes rainy. Having the right gear will make all the difference. Waterproof shoes/boots, rain jackets, and umbrellas can be very helpful. For women and girls who wear skirts, warm leggings are essential. Thin materials for keeping warm while active outside are great: fleece, flannel, and thermal. Of course, you'll need some really good walking shoes. If you want to get the ultimate shoes for touring on ancient stone walkways on a rainy day, check out Merrell's Artic Grip shoes and boots which are waterproof, warm and reduce slipping. Layers are important to adjust to temperature changes throughout the day.
Transitional Months (March - May, October/November):
Be prepared to pack a little extra to cover different weather possibilities, and you will be all set for a trip in these transitional months. There will be a large difference in climate between different areas of the country and different times of day. Layers and variety are the key. Check weather websites before your trip for the most up to date information to help you determine if you need to pack more for warm weather or for cold.
Other items to pack:
 • Bathing suit/ flip flops/ beach wear
Modest dress for holy sites (women clothes should cover knees and shoulders and not have low cut shirts, kippah/ head covering for men). 
Dressier outfit(s) for Shabbat/ Holidays
(Spare) Glasses and/or contacts & solution
Prescription and over the counter medications you use regularly
 • Chargers and external battery pack to charge devices
Electrical adapters for electronic devices: these are simple and inexpensive, just a plastic piece that enables rectangular plugs to fit into round outlets.
 • Do not bring any electrical appliances to Israel that heat up such as a hair dryer. Hotels will provide. If you bring an electric shaver or similar electric appliance that works in North America, you will need a transformer to modify the 220v electricity here to a 110v machine.
 • Backpack for day trips
Overnight bag for overnight trips
Folding bag/duffel to bring home extra purchases
 • It can be helpful for children and adults to watch a movie or read up on some of the places we'll be visiting. Bonus to be ready with questions already in mind!

Document checklist:
 • Passport/ Entrance Visa - suggested to keep copies of documents and other important information in a separate location in case of loss or theft. 
 • As of January 2023, there are no Covid restrictions in Israel.
Credit Card/ Debit Card  - let your companies know you'll be using cards in Israel.
Cash (for tips, small purchases, and taxis if needed - some do not accept credit card)
Driver's License
For Israelis: contact your local Israeli consulate to clarify which documents you will need such as passport, teudat zehut (ID), and any relevant army deferral documents

Question 3

What Do We Need to Bring Each Tour Day? Any Special Gear?

Accepted Answer

Every tour day, you'll want to be ready to go with the following:
 • comfortable walking shoes with good treads, 
 • a backpack, 
 • water, snacks just in case, 
 • sunhat, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
 • tissues and hand sanitizer for under-stocked bathrooms. 
 • Make sure your phone is fully charged to take pictures of all the amazing sites. An extra battery pack to charge devices can help ensure you won't miss out on any moments you would like to capture. 
 • modest clothes that cover shoulders and knees or a scarf put on over whatever you are wearing for the Western Wall.
In warm weather, it's important to carry water with you on walking tours. If you prefer not to carry a backpack, perhaps an insulated water carrier could work for you. There are various options on Amazon.
Some sites do require additional special gear. Here is a partial list. Your itinerary will include any additional items you might need for specific sites.
1. City of David: simple flashlights and water shoes that grip the foot if you are walking through the water tunnel. If you want to use your phone in any water sites to take pictures, you might want a waterproof protective sleeve (available on Amazon).
2. Some museums and sites do not allow backpacks inside and will generally have a place to store your bag. At those sites, you can bring a small purse or side bag along with you.
3. There are a limited number of places in Israel that require passport ID such as the Knesset (parliament) and Supreme Court.
4. Since tourists are VAT exempt for hotels, you may be asked to show the paper given to you at the airport that shows what date you arrived, on first arrival to hotels.
5. ATVs require a driver's license for drivers over age 21.
6. Caliber 3 requires a passport and closed shoes.
7. For visits to the Dead Sea or Ein Gedi, you will need water/hiking shoes.
​

Question 4

What Information Do You Need to Plan Our Itinerary?

Accepted Answer

1. Has your family been to Israel before?
2. Any allergies or special diets?
3. It's important for me to know if anyone in the group has nut or other serious allergies, even if we don't have a meal planned for the tour. While I cannot guarantee a nut-free experience, I can take some steps to avoiding a problem.
4. Do you have young children who will be joining the trip? What ages? Do you prefer strollers, or baby carriers? Will you be travelling with car seats/boosters?
5. Do you prefer to minimize or maximize time spent walking, climbing stairs, tunnels, or adventurous activities? Any health limitations to be aware of?
6. Are you "get up early and go" type of travelers or do you prefer a leisurely breakfast and a later start time?
7. Will your group want to emphasize learning about historical sites, visiting spiritual sites, or participating in experiential activities?
8. How much time browsing markets will your group enjoy?
9. (For extended family trips) Would it be helpful to offer different options to accommodate different interests and touring styles?
10. Any heads up about group dynamics that can help us in leading the trip?

Question 5

What's the Weather Like in Israel?

Accepted Answer

Israel has a remarkably varied climate; something for everyone!
It can be helpful to take into consideration what the weather would be at different times of year, and what will work best for you to have a fabulous trip.
Do you enjoy hot, dry, weather?
You will love the Dead Sea or Eilat regions. Prefer cool summer evenings? You'll want to spend some time in Jerusalem enjoying the cool mountain air after dark.
Do you like the warm moist air of the coastal regions? Tel Aviv, Haifa and everything in between are for you!
Do you find warm weather challenging? How about planning your trip for the transitional months in Spring and fall or cooler winter months?
Does cold, rainy winter get you down? You might want to avoid a winter trip. Although there can be many beautiful and comfortable winter days.
If you love to put on some layers and go out to enjoy the fresh air, winter can be ideal time to visit for lower prices and less crowded sites.
Most important, check a weather website such as this one before you pack:
https://weather-it-is-israel.com(https://weather-it-is-israel.com/)
​

Question 6

Which Places in Jerusalem Do Families Enjoy on Their Own?

Accepted Answer

Teddy Park – This is a fun and beautiful splash pad near Jaffa Gate, across from the Mamilla Mall with a view of the walls of Jerusalem. It runs every few hours for ½ hour. In the evening, there are lights and music. Park is named for former Mayor of Jerusalem, Teddy Kollek and there’s a free 10 minute movie/hologram about him next to the splash pad as well as many art galleries.
Summer Hours
The park is open 7 days a week, from 7:00 am to 11:00 pm
Daytime fountain shows (water only) at 11:00 am, 1:00 pm, 3:00 pm and 5:00 pm
Evening fountain shows (light, music and water) at 8:00 pm, 9:00 pm and 10:00 pm
To be sure the park is open visit their facebook page

Tower of David – (Open on the Sabbath) this is a museum about all of the history of Jerusalem set in an ancient fortress. They also offer a show at night called the(https://www.tod.org.il/night-experiences/)
Night spectacular or King David(https://www.tod.org.il/night-experiences/)
which is great for kids. Best to see show in warm weather and not on a day of an old city tour because kids might be too tired to go out that night.
“I am Jerusalem" or the "Time Elevator" (https://www.time-elevator.co.il/en/) (Closed on the Sabbath) is a multidimensional movie that is great for kids 5 and up ( good for rainy or hot days).
Outside the Old City/Modern Jerusalem:
Israel Museum (https://www.imj.org.il/en/upcoming-exhibitions)– (Open on the Sabbath). This museum is rated first in the world for Biblical Archaeology. The Dead Sea Scrolls, Model of 2nd Temple Period Jerusalem and Art Wing (rated 8th in the world) are also worthwhile. In the Art Wing, walk past the Israeli art for the more famous pieces such as Monet, Van Gogh Picasso and more. Best to get the free headsets to personalize your tour, and they also have free tours throughout the day. Check hours before planning visit. They will coat check any backpacks, side bags/purses are allowed in museum.  
Yad Vashem (https://www.yadvashem.org/visiting.html)– (Closed on the Sabbath) National and International Holocaust Memorial/Museum. They will coat check any backpacks, side bags/purses are allowed in museum. Check hours before planning visit. Ages 10 and up.
Mt Herzl – (Closed on the Sabbath) National Leaders and Military Cemetery where Golda Meir and Yitzchak Rabin and many others are buried. It’s next to Yad Vashem and the two sites go well together.
Aquarium (https://www.israel-aquarium.org.il/english)– (Open on the Sabbath) new and world class! Focuses on the Seas of Israel and environmental issues. Fun for all ages. Reservation required.
Biblical Zoo (https://www.jerusalemzoo.org/home-english)(open on the Sabbath) – great activity for kids
Knesset (parliament) (https://main.knesset.gov.il/en/activity/Pages/visit.aspx)offers excellent free tours on Sundays and Thursdays (bring passport, check their website for dress code and details). Arrive ½ hour early for security.
Supreme Court (https://supreme.court.gov.il/sites/en/Pages/Tours.aspx)offers free tours Sunday – Thursday
Ben Yehuda Street – (Closed on the Sabbath) street shows, souvenir shops, nice hangout in the “center of town”.
Shuk Mahane Yehuda (https://en.machne.co.il/)– (some restaurants are open on the Sabbath but the market shops are generally closed) eat your way through this fun market.
Music museum (https://hebrewmusicmuseum.com/)– nice hands on educational/fun/and beautiful place for kids with instruments and furnishings from around the world. Best to join one of their guided tours rather than doing a self guided Ipad tour. 
The First Station (http://www.firststation.co.il/en/home-3/)– (Open on the Sabbath)
Restored Train Station with restaurants and outdoor activities.
Wine Tasting in the Jerusalem Windmill (near the King David hotel). 25 shekels to taste 4 wines from the Jerusalem Winery. 10am-10pm Sunday-Thursday.

Jerusalem Journeys
with Tour Guide Leah

בס"ד

Meaningful, engaging, and inspiring experiences thoughtfully designed for families, professionals, and visitors of all backgrounds