We are delighted you are taking part in this breathtaking tour of “Sands of Faith – Israel and Jordan Tour. While we will make every effort to achieve all that is herein presented, we make no warrant beyond what is achievable under normal circumstances. The schedule presented may be modified, or canceled at the discretion of the Tour club organizer (YPT). It serves also, to indicate distances and travel times that are estimates only and descriptions provided are for general guidance only and may not be based on the latest available information. Travel routes/itineraries, departure dates, hotel accommodations, or other services may be amended due to safety concerns, prevailing conditions, or unforeseen circumstances. The right is reserved to substitute listed events of similar category or alternate programs, or schedules, in any way necessary in the interest of tour club members or due to circumstances over which the operators have no control, like weather and direct and indirect consequences of Acts of God or any circumstance/emergency beyond the manageable control, therefore, in advance we are requesting every participant’s full understanding and cooperation for the Tour’s success.
Day 1 Wed, 24th Oct 2023
We embark on a journey that will take us to the ancient land of Jordan, then Israel for our Sands of Faith Tour. With hearts full of excitement and anticipation, we set out from Miami, bound for the bustling city of Amman.
Day 2 Wed, 25th Oct 2023
Landed, we arrive in the vibrant city of Amman, a feast for the senses awaits us. The city's bustling energy and rich cultural heritage are palpable, and we are eager to immerse ourselves.
As we make our way to our hotel, we are treated to a stunning panoramic view of the city, a fitting introduction to the wonders that lie ahead. An afternoon to rest and meet with other travelers and tour directors
Overnight Aman
3 Thu, 26 Oct 2023
As we cross the border into Israel, we are filled with a sense of anticipation and wonder, knowing that we are about to embark on a sacred journey.
Our first stop is the Basilica of the Nativity, where we have the humbling opportunity to kneel at the very spot where Christ was born, in the hallowed Grotto of the Nativity. As we offer our prayers and gratitude, we are reminded of the miraculous nature of Christ's birth and the profound impact it has had on the world.
Our journey continues to the Fields of the Shepherds, a place steeped in history and wonder. It was here that the shepherds, tending their flocks on the night of Christ's birth, heard the angels' announcement of his arrival, signaling the birth of the Messiah and the Savior of the World.
As we stand in this holy place, we are filled with a sense of awe and reverence, knowing that we are walking in the footsteps of those who bore witness to this momentous event. With each step we take, we feel the presence of the divine and the enduring power of faith.
Overnight- Bethlehem
Day 4 Fri, 27 Oct 2023
Start this eventful day by visiting Yad Vashem, the holocaust museum. Yad Vashem is Israel's official memorial to the victims of the Holocaust. It is Dedicated to preserving the memory of the Jews who were murdered?
The Garden Tomb
As we ascend the winding roads of Mt. Zion, the breathtaking views of the city below gradually unfold before our eyes. Our first stop is the Upper Room, where the Last Supper to have taken place. The sense of history and spirituality is palpable as we gaze at the simple yet poignant surroundings that played a pivotal role in the events that shaped the world.
Next, we make our way to the Church of St. Peter in Gallicantu, perched atop the ancient ruins of the Palace of Caiaphas. Standing in this sacred space, we can't help but reflect on the weighty significance of the trial of Jesus and the profound impact it has had on humanity for centuries.
(Mark 14: 53-65).
Overnight- Bethlehem
Day 5 Sat, 28 Oct 2023
As we enter the walls of the Old City of Jerusalem, we feel transported back in time to the era when Jesus walked these very streets. We follow in his footsteps, retracing the path he took as he carried the weight of our sins to the Cross at Golgotha (Matt. 27:31-33).
Along the way, we pause at the Pools of Bethesda, where Jesus performed one of his most miraculous healings, restoring the use of a man's legs after 38 years of crippling paralysis (Joh. 5:1-9). Continuing on, we follow the 14 Stations of the Cross, stopping to reflect at each point along the way, until we arrive at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher and the site of the empty tomb (Matt. 27:57-60).
As we exit the church, we make our way to the Western Wall, also known as the Wailing Wall, where we join with countless others who have come to offer their prayers and petitions. Finally, we drive to the top of the Mount of Olives, the very spot from which Jesus ascended to Heaven after his resurrection (Acts 1:9-12), and marvel at the panoramic views of the city below.
Ascending to the summit of the Mount of Olives, we are met with a breathtaking panorama of Jerusalem, the heart of the biblical world both ancient and modern. From this vantage point, we are filled with a sense of awe and wonder as we survey the sacred city below.
Our journey continues as we make our way down the storied "Palm Sunday Road", visiting the Chapel of Dominus Flevit, where Jesus wept over the fate of Jerusalem.
We then come to the peaceful Garden of Gethsemane, where Christ is said to have prayed before his betrayal, and the nearby Church of all Nations, where we are invited to pause and reflect on the immense sacrifice that was made on our behalf. As we stand in this hallowed place, we are reminded of the enduring power of faith and the boundless love of our Savior.
Overnight- Jerusalem
Day 6 Sun, 29 Oct 2023
At Caesarea National Park, we immerse ourselves in the rich history of this ancient port city. We explore the ruins of the Roman Theater, where gladiators once battled for the entertainment of the masses, and the magnificent Palace of Herod, the infamous king who ruled over Judea during the time of Jesus (Acts 23:23; Acts 26:23).
We also visit the Palace of the Roman Procurator, Pilate, which played a pivotal role in the story of Peter and Cornelius (Acts 10:20-48). As we wander through the Amphitheater and Crusaders' City, we can't help but feel awed by the sheer scale of this once-great metropolis, which was home to over 100,000 inhabitants at its peak. Next, we visit the stunning Bahai Gardens in Aabas, a serene oasis of greenery and tranquility that stands in stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of the city. Finally, we make our way to Muhraka, the site of Elijah's dramatic showdown with the prophets of Baal (1 Kings 18:20-46), and marvel at the stunning vistas that stretch out before us.
Overnight- Tiberias
Day 7
We begin this day with a tranquil boat trip across the glistening waters of the Sea of Galilee, just as Jesus and his disciples did over 2,000 years ago.
As we disembark, we make our way to the summit of the Mount of Beatitudes, where we can soak up the stunning views of the surrounding landscape and reflect on the timeless message of the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7).
Our next stop is Tabgha, a picturesque village on the northwestern shore of the Sea of Galilee, where we visit the Church of the Multiplication of the Loaves and Fishes and the nearby Chapel of the Primacy, both of which stand as testaments to Jesus' miraculous powers.
We then journey to the ancient town of Capernaum, where Jesus spent much of his time during his ministry. As we wander through the evocative ruins of this once-thriving border town, we are transported back in time to the days of the Bible. We visit the ancient synagogue and the "House of Peter", where Jesus is said to have healed Peter's mother-in-law (Matthew 8:14-15). With each step we take, we feel a deeper connection to the land and the people who were touched by Jesus' teachings and miraculous deeds.
Overnight- Tiberias
Day 8
We are now leaving Israel, on our back to Aman, Jordan. Crossing over into Jordan through the Sheikh Hussein border. As we make our way towards the ancient city of Petra, we pause to pay tribute to history at the sacred site of Mount Nebo, where Moses have first gazed upon the Promised Land. With a renewed appreciation for the rich cultural and historical significance of this land, we continue on our adventure towards the breathtaking beauty of Petra
Overnight- Petra
Day 9
Petra visit.
A visit to Petra, Jordan is an awe-inspiring experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. As you enter the ancient city through the narrow Siq, the grandeur of the Treasury will take your breath away.
From there, you can explore the countless intricately-carved tombs, temples, and amphitheaters that make up this UNESCO World Heritage site. The vibrant colors of the sandstone cliffs and the fascinating history of this once-thriving Nabataean city are sure to leave a lasting impression, making Petra a must-see destination.
After the visit drive to Amman. Rest and dinner at the hotel prepare for tomorrow’s flight
Overnight Aman
Day 10 Wed, 2nd Nov 2023
As the 10 day tour of Israel and Jordan comes to an end, one may feel a mix of emotions. A sense of awe and fulfillment from the many beautiful sights and experiences they encountered throughout their journey, feel a deep appreciation for the cultural and historical significance of the region, giving a sort renewed sense of wonder.
Departure from Aman to Miami
Please note this is a guideline only, and should be treated as such
Guide: 4-5$ per person per touring day
Driver: 3-4$ per person per touring day
Restaurant staff: 1$ per person (fix group menu lunch on route) or 10% of amount in case of a la carte menu
Hotel staff: according to your decision.
"We had a wonderful time in Greece, the crew for the tour did a great job"
"I have traveled before with many tour companies, honestly, Your preferred tours is the best that I have experienced. I have been to Europe with them many times, Israel, just recently Greece, they are professionals, customers service oriented, flexible payments terms, great excursions selected,above all they make everybody feel welcome"
"The trip was phenomenal, I’ll be back to another tour with them again for sure"
"Jinni Mathurin, the organizer is on point in everything. I would definitely give her 10 stars if I could."
"It was a very pleasant moment that I’d experienced with the YPT group. Everything was very well planned and the leaders were very nice and ready to respond to every need that we had. They’d carefully chosen the informative and pleasant sites that made everyone happy and very satisfied."
"A superb journey that will memorable for several reasons including sound organizing, choices of the best places to say and awesome places to visit, gatherings to worship, unwind and build friendship, as well as a comprehensive approach to meet our expectations. I will recommend Gems of South Europe to all my relatives and friends. Bravo!"
"I absolutely enjoying my vacation."
"At first I was very nervous about the trip since I was one of the youngest (21) joining the trip, but I must say that the leaders Jennie and Nicole did an amazing job making everyone feel included and making sure there were plenty excursions that the entire group can enjoy. With this group you will feel beautifully included ,travel to amazing places while getting to build a safe and inclusive community with people that are looking to do the same!"
"Knowing knew places with YPT"
"Great relaxation!"
"Wonderful experience, unforgettable trip. Thank you YPT"
"It is a well organized tours, very very professional. The organizers Jinnie and Nicole are very caring persons . They make people feel welcome, they participate in everything we do. You feel like your travel in family. Their outstanding commitment to the success, the top 5 stars hotels, the super restaurants we are eating , and some late get together open to all males this organisation very different from a lot of other companies where you are just a number and not part of a great family where every one in the tours becomes friend with each other before they leave. Thank you ladies, great job, I will be back again."
"Another wow moment swith your pref.erred tours in Greece 2023"
"I appreciate all your efforts in putting it all together for us to make it fun,it was a therapy for me.The trip was well organized,my sister and l,we were pleased with the guide,the hotels ,and the foods that were served .Many thanks for organizing such a wonderful trip to Israel,I am looking to go for more trips with you,and l will recommend to some friends to travel with you,l want also to thank you for your patience.Both of you did a wonderful job."
"First time traveling with a group out of the states. Definitely will not be my last with 'your preferred tour' I genuinely cannot wait for my next experience."
"Amazing! Amazing! Amazing! I had a wonderful time. Sister Nicole and Jenni are the Best of the Best."
"I enjoyed my trip to Israel with Preferred tours! The guides were excellent, the trip was fun, and I met a lot of new people. Seeing where Jesus was as well as others in the Bible was eye opening and has changed the way I read the Bible."
"I had a blast!!"
"The Jerusalem trip was one of the best spiritual experience for me and my spouse; tracing the steps of Jesus Christ my Lord and Savior. Jinny and Nicole are great leaders; they make a wonderful team. Their communication skills, professionalism, and patience are impeccable. They are always ready to answer questions with a smile. The spiritual leaders (pastor David), Hotels selection, the food, tour guide, drivers etc were excellent. I am getting to travel with them again. Thank you preferred tour for chosen such a great team to help with our traveling experience."
"Great communication between the host and the group. Everything on the itinerary was fulfilled. Exceed my expectations. Definently my preferred tour."
"I went on the “Retracing Jesus’s steps” tour in Israel late Jan/early February 2023 and had a blast! The excursions were well thought out and organized to satisfy a group of 70+ pilgrims from the USA. Lots could go wrong with such a large group but we experienced minimal issues. The local tour guides were A+ ( Gavriel was my local group tour guide and Khalil was our driver). Gavriel was super knowledgeable, patient and kind. He went above and beyond answering all of our questions (spiritual, cultural and political) ensuring we had a great experience and kept us safe at all times. There is not a cultural site that I didn’t like. We really walked the paths Jesus walked while on earth in Israel which was a humbling experience for me. The stories from the Bible came alive, making you feel special. The accommodations were comfortable, and it was a big plus that the tour operators (Jinnie and Nicole) included daily breakfasts and dinners as part of the package. Out of pocket expenses were for lunch and your own shopping. They did their best to ensure everyone had a good experience from airports to shuttles to hotels to excursions with time planned for shopping. You could join all the activities or stay in your hotel if you didn’t want to. The cost of the tour was very competitive and more affordable than other organized tours I was considering before deciding to go on this tour. One suggestion for change is to possibly stay more nights at 1 or 2 centrally located hotels for the duration of the tour to limit packing and moving if possible. This tour is appropriate for all age groups as long as you’re mobile to walk the grounds comfortably. Everyone was nice and helpful to one another. I highly recommend this tour."
"Your guide was very professional,"
"It was a good experience,my preferred Tours leaders are very talented and caring,I will fly with them again with no problem"
"Nicole & Jinny handled to tour very well! I enjoyed every bit of the trip. Highly recommended."
"Fun, beautiful ex tour guid perience, well organized, great guide and driver, keeps up the good work sister Nicole and Jenny"
"Excellent service, best tour leaders and guides, affordable prices, flexible payment terms"
