Your pilgrimage begins as we depart the USA together on an overnight flight, filled with excitement for the journey ahead. When we arrive in Israel, Rose and I will be right there with you as we’re welcomed at the Tel Aviv airport by our trusted representative, ensuring everything feels smooth and stress-free from the very start. From there, we’ll travel to our hotel in beautiful Netanya, settle in for a relaxing dinner, and enjoy a restful night as we prepare to begin this unforgettable Holy Land experience side-by-side.
Today we begin exploring some of the most meaningful sites in the region. We’ll start with a visit to the impressive Roman Aqueduct and Theatre at Caesarea—once a major center of early Christianity (Acts 10) and the place where Paul was imprisoned for two years (Acts 23:33). Standing here brings the New Testament to life in a powerful way.
From there, we’ll look toward Mount Carmel and remember Elijah’s bold victory over the prophets of Baal (1 Kings 18), a moment that still echoes with faith and courage. Rose and I can’t wait to share this incredible viewpoint with you.
Our journey continues along the ancient caravan route through the Jezreel Valley to Tel Megiddo, an archaeological treasure with twenty layers of cities built one upon another—an unforgettable glimpse into thousands of years of history.
We’ll conclude our day in Nazareth, the boyhood home of Jesus (Matthew 2:23), a place that brings the humanity of His story into beautiful focus. Rose and I are honored to walk these sacred places alongside you.
Today we travel through the Valley of the Doves toward the Sea of Galilee, following the same pathway Jesus and His disciples once walked. We’ll visit Magdala—home of Mary Magdalene—and step inside a remarkable first-century synagogue recently uncovered. After lunch, we’ll cross the Sea of Galilee on a special boat ride with worship onboard, always a highlight for Rose and me.
At Kibbutz Nof Ginosar, we’ll see the 2,000-year-old “ancient boat,” similar to those used in Jesus’ time. Then we’ll explore Capernaum, the center of Jesus’ Galilean ministry, and stand among the ruins of the synagogue where He taught.
We’ll end the day on the Mount of Beatitudes, reflecting on the Sermon on the Mount, and visit Tabgha, the traditional site of the feeding of the 5,000. It’s a day filled with faith, history, and unforgettable moments we’re grateful to share with you.
Today we explore the ruins of Tel Dan, where we’ll see the remains of the altar built by King Jeroboam I (1 Kings 12:25–30) and learn about the discovery of the famous “House of David” inscription from the First Temple Period. From there, we’ll continue to Caesarea Philippi, the site of Peter’s declaration, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the Living God!” (Matthew 16:16).
Our drive along the Golan Heights offers beautiful views across Israel, Syria, and Jordan before we arrive in Bethsaida—the hometown of several of Jesus’ disciples. We’ll end this powerful day at the Yardenit Baptismal site, where the Jordan River flows south from the Sea of Galilee. Here, you’ll have a meaningful moment to remember your baptism, and Rose and I are honored to share this spiritual experience with you.
Today we begin in Bethlehem, where we’ll look out over Shepherds’ Field and visit the cave traditionally honored as the birthplace of Jesus (Luke 2:1–20). We’ll also step inside the Church of the Nativity, the world’s oldest functioning church, built above this sacred site.
Returning to Jerusalem, we’ll visit Yad Vashem, Israel’s Holocaust Memorial—a powerful and emotional experience that honors the lives lost and the stories that must never be forgotten.
We’ll then explore the Israel Museum, including its impressive First Century Model of Jerusalem, which helps bring the time of Jesus to life. A highlight is the Shrine of the Book, where the Dead Sea Scrolls—especially the book of Isaiah—are preserved and displayed.
Rose and I are grateful to walk through these meaningful places with you as history, Scripture, and remembrance come together in a powerful way.
This morning we stand on the Mount of Olives, taking in a breathtaking view of Jerusalem—the Golden City—where Jesus stood before ascending into heaven (Acts 1:9–12). In the Kidron Valley, we’ll pause to pray in the Garden of Gethsemane, following the path of Jesus’ own prayer before His arrest (Matthew 26:36).
We’ll continue to Mount Zion to visit the House of Caiaphas, where Jesus was questioned the night of His betrayal, and then reflect on the Last Supper as we visit the traditional Upper Room (Mark 14:12–26).
At the Western Wall, the last remnant of the Second Temple, we’ll spend time in prayer before sitting on the ancient Teaching Steps where Jesus once taught. Rose and I look forward to sharing these deeply meaningful moments with you.
Today we begin on the Temple Mount (conditions permitting), once the site of Solomon’s Temple (2 Chronicles 3) and now home to the iconic Dome of the Rock. We’ll then visit the Pool of Bethesda, where Jesus healed on the Sabbath (John 5:1–18), before walking the Via Dolorosa—the “Way of the Cross”—to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, built over the traditional locations of Jesus’ crucifixion and burial (John 19).
We’ll close our day at the peaceful Garden Tomb, where we’ll share communion together and reflect on the power and hope of the Resurrection (John 20). Rose and I are grateful to experience this meaningful day with you.
Today we begin our journey back to the USA, taking with us far more than photos and souvenirs. Rose and I pray that this pilgrimage has deepened your understanding of Scripture, strengthened your faith, and given you moments where God’s presence felt especially near. Walking where Jesus walked, standing in the places where the stories of the Bible unfolded—these experiences change us. They remind us that our faith is rooted in real places, real history, and a real Savior who meets us in both the ancient world and our everyday lives.
As we head home, may the sights, sounds, and quiet moments of this journey continue to shape your heart long after we return. And for those joining us on the extension, we look forward to sharing even more meaningful experiences together as this incredible journey continues.
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I’m a retired Mission Pastor with a lifelong passion for people, a wanderlust heart, and a gift for planning. For many years, I had the privilege of leading mission trips around the world - organizing everything from global outreach projects to hands-on local service events.
As my journey has evolved, I’ve discovered a new joy: helping others experience the beauty of travel through cruising. While cruising is my specialty, I also help travelers with other kinds of adventures - whether that’s exploring vibrant cities, relaxing at all-inclusive resorts, or creating custom journeys that fit your unique style.
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doug@travelwithdoug.com