General Information
Travel Insurance
Many seasoned travelers are not aware that their health insurance may not cover them outside of the country. If you need to cancel your trip due to an unforeseen emergency or serious illness, most of your trip may be non-refundable if you are not insured. In the event you become ill during your travels, finding and receiving medical care may be very frustrating without insurance. Travel insurance also covers lost baggage and worldwide emergency assistance. For a minimal amount of money, travel insurance is a must.
Passport Information
Citizens of all countries need a valid passport with at least six months validity beyond intended stay, to enter Israel. Make two photocopies of your passport. Leave one copy at home and carry the other separately from your original.
Visa
Citizens of U.S.A, Canada, most European countries and the Philippines do not need a Visa when entering Israel. Citizens of other countries are responsible to fulfill appropriate entry requirements of destination. Contact your Consulate office for requirements.
Languages Spoken
Hebrew, Arabic and English
Currency
The currency in Israel is the Shekel. There are no restrictions on the import and export of Israeli or foreign currency. Credit cards can be used in Israel for larger purchases. ATMs in Israel are all connected to European and American banking systems. We suggest you call your bank and/or credit card company before you leave to let them know you will be out of the country and using your ATM card or credit card.
Voltage
Electricity is 220 volts. You will need to bring along the necessary adaptors/converters to operate your electronic appliances such as hair dryers, electric razors, etc. The plugs are round and have two prongs.
Health Requirements
None required. Modern medical services are readily available in Israel's larger cities. Most doctors speak English fluently. Pharmacies can provide medication for minor aliments, but travelers should carry their own prescription medication. Israel meets Western standards of sanitation and no special precautions usually need to be taken. The water and food are safe to consume, and medical facilities are more than adequate. Check with your doctor about updating any necessary immunizations.
Medication
If you are required to take medications, you should notify the leader of your group in the event of an emergency. Ask your doctor to write an extra prescription to take with you if your medication is lost. All medication must be kept in its original container, including over-the-counter medications.
Time Zone
Seven hours ahead of EST and two hours ahead of GMT. Israel is 5 hours behind Manila time in April-September and 6 hours behind Manila time in October-March, because of the Daylight Savings Time.
Climate
In Israel the climate is temperate, and temperatures all year round are reasonable. Israel has two main seasons: Winter from November to March is cold and rainy in most parts of the country; summer from April to October is hot and dry with little or no rainfall. The desert areas can be extremely hot in summer time. The best time to visit is March-June or October-November, although climate shouldn't be a major consideration in choosing a time to visit. Please check the current Weather in Israel.
What to Pack
Comfortable, casual clothing that can be layered to match the weather is a good suggestion. Planning your wardrobe around one or two colors is also helpful. You may choose to bring along one dressy outfit but it is not necessary. Be sure to include comfortable walking shoes and a lightweight jacket for mornings and evenings.
For programs including a Baptism service in the Jordan River or any other location in Israel, it is advise to wear proper footwear to protect ones feet from any foreign objects that may be present in the water.
A raincoat and rain hat (or poncho) is easier to use when sightseeing than an umbrella. The above climate listings will allow you to plan accordingly for Israel.
Women should always dress modestly. It is an affront to some in Israel for women to be showing bare shoulders and legs. Women should also pack a lightweight scarf for covering their heads only if entering a mosque or other religious location which require this. Both men and women will need to remove their shoes before entering a mosque as well. When entering religious sites in Jerusalem, men and women need to make sure their legs are covered to at least below the knee. Also, be sure to cover shoulders.
Swimming attire should only be worn around swimming pools or beaches and not in public places.
Be sure to keep important items such as documents, money, medications, keys, etc. on your person or in your carry-on luggage. Never pack these items in your checked luggage.
Do not make yourself a target by wearing expensive jewelry. A good way to conceal your money and valuables is by purchasing an inexpensive, lightweight pouch that attaches around your waist and is worn under your clothes.
Do not over-pack. Leave room in your suitcase for souvenirs.
If you are traveling with a companion, cross-pack. Put half of your items in your companion's luggage and vice-versa. This will ease the frustration of lost luggage.
Take along a small backpack. When you are touring, fill it with bottled water, tissues, notebook and pen. It will also come in handy for carrying souvenirs.
Don't forget these travel sized necessities: sewing kit, first-aid kid, tissues, travel clock, toiletries, notebook and pen, pre-printed address labels (for sending postcards), plastic "zip-locking" bags (for storing open bottles and containers).
Fluids
To avoid dehydration which is very common in extremely dry climates, drink plenty of water. Bottled water, not tap is recommended at all meals. Pitchers of water will be supplied at dinner in Israel. This water is safe to drink. Carry bottled water with you when touring. When buying bottled water, make sure the seal is not broken when you get the water.
People with sensitive digestive systems need to be prepared by purchasing diarrehea medication ahead of time to take with you. Electrolite supplements maybe needed during the warmer months. Your doctor might be a helpful source for recommending precautionary medication to take along.
Meals
For meals that are not included, check with your group leader or the front desk at the hotel for suggestions (be sure to mention the price range you are interested in). There's a wide range of cuisine in Israel from Continental to Ethiopian. Other specialties include hummus and falafel (similar to a pita).
In Israel
Show respect for the religious observances throughout Israel - do not eat or drink in or around religious shrines. Remove your shoes before entering a mosque.
Travel Insurance Passport Information Visa Health Certificate Languages Spoken Currency Voltage Water Medication Time Zone Climate What to Pack A raincoat and rain hat (or poncho) is easier to use when sightseeing than an umbrella. The above climate listings will allow you to plan accordingly for Jordan.
Women should always dress modestly in Muslim countries. It is an affront to the Muslims for women to be showing bare shoulders and legs. Women should also pack a lightweight scarf for covering their heads only if entering a mosque or other religious locations which requires this. Both men and women will need to remove their shoes before entering a mosque as well. Also, be sure to cover shoulders.
Swimming attire should only be worn around swimming pools or beaches and not in public places.
Be sure to keep important items such as documents, money, medications, keys, etc. on your person or in your carry-on luggage. Never pack these items in your checked luggage.
Do not make yourself a target by wearing expensive jewelry. A good way to conceal your money and valuables is by purchasing an inexpensive, lightweight pouch that attaches around your waist and is worn under your clothes.
Do not over-pack. Leave room in your suitcase for souvenirs.
If you are traveling with a companion, cross-pack. Put half of your items in your companion's luggage and vice-versa. This will ease the frustration of lost luggage.
Take along a small backpack. When you are touring, fill it with bottled water, tissues, notebook and pen. It will also come in handy for carrying souvenirs.
Don't forget these travel sized necessities: sewing kit, first-aid kid, tissues, travel clock, toiletries, notebook and pen, pre-printed address labels (for sending postcards), plastic "zip-locking" bags (for storing open bottles and containers).
Shopping In Jordan Show respect for the religious observances throughout the country - do not eat or drink in or around religious shrines. Remove your shoes before entering a mosque.
Because of the large amount of religious sites throughout the country, the Bible could well be the best guidebook for the nation - bring one along.
Carry bottled water with you when touring. Remember, you will be in the desert at times and dehydration can become a serious problem.
Women should never travel alone outside the main tourist areas at night. They should also ignore any rude remarks directed at them and avoid eye contact with men.
Be sure to ask permission before taking pictures of people and do not photograph anything with military significance or remotely connected with the government in Jordan.
Do not pass food (even if it's wrapped or in a container) with your left hand.
If you plan on hiring a taxi, agree on the price before getting in.
Travel Insurance Passport Information Visa Languages Spoken Currency Voltage Medication Health Information Time Zone Climate What to Pack NILE CRUISE DRESS: Appropriate dress at dinner is "Smart Casual" although you will not feel out of place with dressier clothes.
A raincoat and rain hat (or poncho) are easier to use when sightseeing than an umbrella. However, the chances of rain in Egypt are a million to one.
Be sure to keep important items such as documents, money, medications, keys, etc. on your person or in your carry-on luggage. Never pack these items in your checked luggage.
Women should always dress modestly in Muslim countries. It is an affront to the Muslims for women to be showing bare shoulders and legs. Capris and blouses that go down to the elbows are appropriate to wear. Evenings will be cooler, so a light sweater or jacket should be packed as well.
Swimming attire should only be worn around swimming pools or beaches and not in public places.
Don't forget to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellent, and a wide-brimmed hat to keep the sun off of your face. Also, remember a camera and binoculars for sight-seeing. Lomotril is also helpful due to the affect of a change of food and water. It may be helpful to take a small supply of toilet paper with you when you leave your hotel each morning.
Do not make yourself a target by wearing expensive jewelry. A good way to conceal your money and valuables is by purchasing an inexpensive, light-weight pouch that attaches around your waist and is worn under your clothes.
Do not over-pack. Leave room in your suitcase for souvenirs.
If you are traveling with a companion, cross-pack. Put half of your items in your companion's luggage and vice-versa. This will ease the frustration of lost luggage.
Take along a small backpack. When you are touring, fill it with bottled water, tissues, notebook and pen. It will also come in handy for carrying souvenirs. Remember to make sure that bottled water is sealed when purchased.
Don't forget these travel sized necessities: sewing kit, first-aid kit, tissues, travel clock, toiletries, notebook and pen, pre-printed address labels (for sending postcards), plastic "zip-locking" bags (for storing open bottles and containers).
Fluids Be wary of drinking fruit juices as some sellers may mix it with tap water. Hot beverages like tea and coffee should generally be OK since the water has been boiled in preparation. It is not a good idea to order ice in your drinks, as ice is generally made from tap water.
People with sensitive digestive systems need to be prepared by purchasing diarrhea medication ahead of time to take with you. Electrolyte supplements maybe needed during the warmer months. Your doctor might be a helpful source for recommending precautionary medication to take along.
Food and Meals For meals that are not included in your tour, check with your group leader or the front desk at the hotel for suggestions (be sure to mention the price range your interested in).
Egyptian food has been influenced by the French, British, Turks and Arabs. The most popular meats served are beef, chicken and mutton. Cumin and coriander are found in almost every Arab dish. A shwarma (similar to a gyro) is a good, fast-food choice if it hasn't been sitting out all day. Try feteara, an oven-baked pancake filled with jam and coconut or moolokhya, a green soup. Vegetarians will enjoy kochari, a combination of rice, chick peas, onions, lentils and spices.
Shopping In Egypt Carry bottled water with you when touring. Remember, you are in the desert and dehydration can be a serious problem.
Women should never travel alone outside the main tourist areas or at night. They should also ignore rude remarks directed at them and avoid eye contact with men.
Do not eat, drink or smoke in or around mosques or holy shrines.
Remove your shoes before entering a mosque. You may be required to cover your head at some shrines.
Be sure to ask permission before taking pictures of people and do not photograph anything with military significance or remotely connected with the government.
Do not pass food (even if it is wrapped or in a container) with your left hand.
If you plan on hiring a taxi, agree on the price before getting in.
See also the FAQ page for Frequently Asked Questions about the Holy Land Tours.
Many seasoned travelers are not aware that their health insurance may not cover them outside of the country. If you need to cancel your trip due to an unforeseen emergency or serious illness, most of your trip may be non-refundable if you are not insured. In the event you become ill during your travels, finding and receiving medical care may be very frustrating without insurance. Travel insurance also covers lost baggage and worldwide emergency assistance. For a minimal amount of money, travel insurance is a must.
Citizens of all countries need a valid passport with at least six months validity beyond intended stay, to enter Jordan. Make two photocopies of your passport. Leave one copy at home and carry the other separately from your original.
Citizens of U.S.A., Canada and the Philippines need a visa to enter Jordan. Visas can be handled by Mercella Tours in advance. Border taxes for entry and departure from Jordan are collected on location at the border crossing.
None required, but contact health authorities for latest information. Modern medical services are readily available in Jordan's larger cities. Most doctors speak English fluently. Pharmacies can provide medication for minor aliments, but travelers should carry their own prescription medication. Check with your doctor about any necessary immunizations he may suggest. Try to avoid drinking the tap water in all countries visited.
The official language of Jordan is Arabic. English is widely spoken, especially in the cities, and many Jordanians have traveled or been educated abroad.
The currency is Jordan is the Jordanian Dinar (JD); it is divided into 100 piasters or 1000 fils. Currency may be exchanged at any bank and most hotels. There are no restrictions on the import and export of Jordanian or foreign currency. ATM machines are available in the major cities throughout Jordan. However, in smaller towns, ATM cards, travelers' checks and credits cards may not be accepted. We suggest you call your bank and/or credit card company before you leave to let them know you will be out of the country and using your ATM card or credit card.
Electricity is 200 volts, 50 cycles. You will need to bring along the necessary adaptors/converters to operate your electronic appliances such as hair dryers, electric razors, etc. The plugs are round and have two prongs.
Potable water is a precious resource in Jordan. However, hotels rated three-star or better have their own water filtering systems (their water is considered safe to drink) and bottled water is cheap and readily available.
If you are required to take medications, you should notify the leader of your group in the event of an emergency. Ask your doctor to write an extra prescription to take with you if your medication is lost. All medication must be kept in its original container, including over-the-counter medications.
Jordan local time is seven hours ahead of American Eastern Standard Time. From October through March, Jordan is two hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time. The rest of the year, Jordan is three hours ahead of GMT.
The weather in Jordan is pleasurable for travel throughout the year. Amman is sunny and cloudless from May to October, with temperatures averaging approximately 25C (75 F). During the spring, the most beautiful season in Jordan, fields and mountains are coated with rich greenery and exquisite wildflowers. In autumn, the weather is mild and pleasant. July and August are hot and dry, but not restrictive of tourist activities. The valleys and Aqaba are ideal winter resorts, with temperatures averaging 16-22 C (66-72 F) between November and April. Rainfall is a rare occurrence in Aqaba as well as in the desert areas of Jordan.
Comfortable, casual clothing that can be layered to match the weather is a good suggestion. Planning your wardrobe around one or two colors is also helpful. You may choose to bring along one dressy outfit but it is not necessary. Be sure to include comfortable walking shoes and a lightweight jacket for mornings and evenings.
Check with your group leader or the front desk for the best shopping areas. Specify that you are interested in purchasing items that are known for their local and cultural appeal.
Be sure to carry your passport with you at all times.
Many seasoned travelers are not aware that their health insurance may not cover them outside of the country. If you need to cancel your trip due to an unforeseen emergency or serious illness, most of your trip may be non-refundable if you are not insured. In the event you become ill during your travels, finding and receiving medical care may be very frustrating without insurance. Travel insurance also covers lost baggage and worldwide emergency assistance. For a minimal amount of money, travel insurance is a must.
Citizens of all countries need a valid passport with at least six months validity beyond intended stay, to enter Egypt. Make two photocopies of your passport. Leave one copy at home and carry the other separately from your original.
Citizens of U.S.A., Canada and the Philippines need a visa to enter Egypt. Visas can be handled by Mercella Tours in advance.
Arabic, English, and French
The currency in Egypt is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). You should plan to use either a credit card or U.S. Dollars. Egypt prohibits the exportation of its currency, so you need to exchange as little money as possible. We suggest you call your bank and/or credit card company before you leave to let them know you will be out of the country and using your ATM card or credit card.
Electricity is 220 volts. You will need to bring along the necessary adaptors/converters to operate your electronic appliances such as hair dryers, electric razors, etc. The plugs are round and have two prongs.
If you are required to take medications, you should notify the leader of your group in the event of an emergency. Ask your doctor to write an extra prescription using the generic name to take with you if your medication is lost. All medication should be kept in its original container, including over-the-counter medications.
Modern medical services are readily available in Egypt's larger cities. Some towns and the bigger hotels may have a doctor on call. Most doctors speak English fluently. Pharmacies can provide medication for minor aliments, but travelers should carry their own prescription medication. Check with your doctor about any necessary immunizations he may suggest. Try to avoid drinking the tap water.
Seven hours ahead of EST and two hours ahead of GMT.
Egypt is largely a desert, an extension of the great Sahara Desert that bands North Africa. Save for the thin strip of watered land along the river Nile, very little could survive here. Egypt generally has dry and very hot summers with moderate winters. November through March is definitely the most comfortable months for travel in Egypt. There is almost no rain in the Nile Valley, so you will not need wet weather gear.
Plan to dress casually, packing light-weight cotton clothes that can be layered if the weather changes. Choose comfort over fashion. Planning your wardrobe around one or two colors is ideal, however opt for lighter colors. Be sure to include comfortable walking shoes and a lightweight jacket for mornings and evenings.
To avoid dehydration which is very common in extremely dry climates, drink plenty of water. Bottled water, not tap is recommended at all meals. Carry bottled water with you when touring. When buying bottled water, make sure the seal is not broken when you get the water. Use caution when brushing your teeth with tap water.
It is important to be aware that most fruits and vegetables should not be eaten raw in Egypt. You should not eat fresh fruit that has been peeled before serving and also not eat any fruit with skin. Food handling in Egypt is not up to Western standards; therefore we suggest avoiding any raw vegetables in salads or meats. You will be given specific information on foods to avoid by your guide when you arrive in Egypt.
Egypt's shopping treasures include wooden pieces inlaid with mother-of-pearl, alabaster and soapstone carvings, perfumes, clothing and antique reproductions. However, be careful when buying these reproductions from stalls in the bazaars. The best place for purchasing these reproductions is at the Egyptian Museum. Be careful about buying anything presented to you as an antique, as it most likely will be a fake. Also take caution when purchasing something that appears to be of historical importance. Egyptian authorities have detained tourists for days in determining authenticity of well-made reproductions. Bargaining is acceptable everywhere. Try to keep the price low without being insulting or arrogant towards the vendor.
Refrain from discussing any Political or Cultural views. This is unwelcome in Egypt!
Places to see in the Holy Land
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