By: Karen Kilyk

Pilgrimage meets sightseeing in the Holy Land with a different climate around every corner. On a recent trip to Israel in January, we were very fortunate to enjoy great weather despite the winter season. The week prior it snowed and halted all touring for a day. During our stay I would start the day with a light winter coat and shed layers as the sun came up.  Down near the Dead Sea it was summer shirt weather so be prepared for anything during the winter in Israel.

That said, the best reason to take a chance on this time of year is the lack of crowds. In Bethlehem, the wait to get down into the grotto can be upwards of two hours during high season and it took us about fifteen minutes. At the precipice, overlooking the beautiful view across the Jezreel Valley to Mt Tabor there are spaces for twenty buses yet we were alone at the top. So if you don’t mind the possibility of rain, snow or cold temperatures and enjoy less crowded sights, choose January for your trip to Israel.

 

“Did you feel safe?”  Of course, that is the question I have heard most often since returning home.  A resounding yes, I did feel safe even at night walking the old city of Jerusalem.  I felt safer than walking in one of our US cities as Israel does not have the rate of violent crime we endure. They have acts of terrorism that make the news in a big way, but are rare. My best advice is to always go with a tour guide. Either privately or with a group, these guides keep their finger on the pulse. If they are uncomfortable with an area, they will steer you in another direction.

 

 

 

 

I am looking forward to a return trip as six days was too short a time, but the small size of the country did allow us to get to different areas.  Our pilgrimage started on the Mount of Olives and went to the Garden of Gethsemane and the Old City.  Jericho, Qumran and Bethlehem were sights we visited outside the city, none of which were further than two hours away so it was possible to stay in one location and visit the balance of the country without moving hotels.  From an 11,000 year old watchtower in Jericho to a modern day Kibbutz that is working and thriving on the Sea of Galilee, this ancient land has so much to offer the tourist and/or the pilgrim – Jewish, Muslim or Christian.

 

Karen Kilyk is a top Vacation Advisor with Covington Travel who specializes in Israel and faith-based travel. She has earned numerous travel industry certifications for destination specialties and cruise knowledge. Karen is also one of only 70 Virgin Galactic Accredited Space Agents in the world. For more information on Israel, faith-based travel or one of Karen’s many other travel favorites, contact her at at (804) 747-4152 or karenk@covtrav.com.