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5 Virtual Tours That Will Connect you to Israel

Virtual Tour in Israel = A Stress-Free Travel Experience

Can I travel to Israel? The answer is unfortunately no for many. However, you will be able to scratch that Israel travel itch with an Israel Virtual Tour. For the last two years, there has been a lot of back and forth when it comes to the subject of international travel and Covid-19. As if the regular pattern of air travel weren’t already stressful and exhausting enough. These countless questions have turned international traveling into a cesspool of nerves. The interaction between Israel and the rest of the world is still halted even after two years. You might still be wondering:

Birthright Interactive Tour

The best part of the Birthright interactive tour is that the trip suggestions are optional. Unlike an actual Birthright trip which is scheduled down to the second. Tour guide Navee Cohen takes you through all of the iconic Birthright sites letting you choose your own adventure. The tour also calls on the expertise of local and specialized guides. These guides explain everything Israeli from tech innovations to historical sites and then some.

Not only do they take you to some of the most iconic Jewish heritage and historic sites but the tour also gives you food options. Every sort of food experience from the fine dining of Tel Aviv to the Arab cuisine is to be found in Nazareth. You can taste the homemade hummus through the screen.

Delicious Israel Virtual Tour

Speaking of delicious cuisine there is plenty to be had in a country that can be covered by car in nine hours. The famed abundance of Israeli Shuk restaurants as well as the history of food assimilation and acceptance in the larger narrative of Israel. The name of the game here is diversity. It is one of the main themes of the tour filtered through the lens of the Israeli breakfast table. Incorporating some staple Israeli breakfast dishes but also staying true to specific cultural Jewish roots.

The Delicious Israel Virtual Tour also sought after the guided advice of local food and wine experts. If there is a specific area of food interest that you would like to know more about, reach out. Let the guides know and they will do their best to give you a customized food experience. This tour is ideal for families looking to connect. Perhaps even parents looking for a fun out-of-the-box activity to do with their kids or as a couples date night.

Kibbutz Sde Boker: BTS with David and Pola Ben-Gurion

David Ben-Gurion, Israel’s mythic first prime minister, model Zionist, and all-around mensch was obsessed with the desert. He believed the desert to be the intellectual birthing ground for the Jewish people. On a trip to the south in 1952, Mr. and Mrs. Ben-Gurion passed by Kibbutz Sde Boker. They were so enthralled with the small community they asked their driver to pull over for a quick tour. Ben-Gurion adored the hopeful mission of the kibbutz. He requested to become a part of the community and made Sde Boker his home.

Today you can take a virtual tour of the Ben-Gurion hut and surrounding gardens. This tour allows you to experience what first enchanted the Prime Minister. A humble yet rich community. The tour is 45 mins and answers any and all sorts of questions one might have about the life of one of Israel’s greatest leaders. Are you curious to see what Pola Ben-Gurion kept in her kitchen drawers? How did they organize the bathroom? What did Ben Gurion keep on his desk?

Masada: A Virtual Hollywood Story

If you do not know the story of Masada, get ready for a movie to come to life. In the Second Temple Era, around 70 CE, there was a community of Jewish rebels taking refuge at the great palace-fortress of Masada. King Herod had originally constructed for himself the most elaborate summer palace on top of a mountain in the desert.

The entire complex is 1.6 million square feet. It includes storage facilities, a palace complex, and elaborately frescoed Roman baths. The Romans overtook the fortress and all the rebels committed suicide but still, this 2,000-year-old ruin remains. Now you can take a virtual tour of Masada so that you do not have to miss one bit of this amazing history. It’s like the google maps of tours, taking you through a 3D model of the entire complex.

Jerusalem: City of Gold Stone

The jewel in the crown of Israel tourism is without a doubt the city of gold herself, Jerusalem. In the last few months, however, the city has been lonely. Jerusalem is so used to being toured and admired by people from around the world. Now you and Jerusalem can reunite through virtual tours offered at Jerusalem.com on all the significant monotheistic sites.

Although you will not be able to touch the stones of the Kotel or walk in the plaza of the Dome of the Rock, there are benefits to taking a virtual tour. One benefit is that the tour is on your schedule. You don’t have to worry about what hours of the day non-Muslims can visit the Temple Mount. Not even getting your clothes wet and dirty when visiting the tunnels under the Kotel.

Virtual Connection

These virtual tours can provide a point of connection for Olim and their family overseas who can’t partake in the experience together. Israel is once again shutting its doors to more and more nations. However, people are generating new and diverse solutions to close that gap. World Jewish Travel has curated these virtual Israel tours to help keep the connection between Israel and the world.

Christmas in Israel: Decking the Halls of Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Jaffa, and Nazareth

Experience the Story of Christmas in the Holy Land

Christmas in Israel is a far less commercialized event than in most other countries. Don’t get it twisted there is still plenty of Christmas festivity to be had during the entire month of December. From Bethlehem to Jaffa and everything in between. However, Christmas in Israel is unlike anywhere else in the world. The history and miracles of Jesus that are celebrated by millions all went down right here. A history that you can see, touch, and celebrate all in one.

Bethlehem: Beginning with the Birth

Although Bethlehem holds a special place in the heart of all three major religions, its worldwide fame has undoubtedly grown from the story of the birth of Jesus Christ. Without a doubt, the city does not disappoint when it comes to its yuletide festivities. Most ceremonies are set to take place right next to the Church of the Nativity in Manger Square, including the lighting of the Christmas tree. However, this is just one event in a series of December long parades, masses, and the ever-important Christmas Market.

Even heading into the first week of January there is a litany of events in Bethlehem that cater to a wide diversity of Christians. The Christkindlmarkt Christmas Market at Lehigh Valley is open again this year. Most Christmas services are offered in both Latin and Arabic culminating in a Christmas Eve Mass. There are also other holy ceremonies held at other sites of significance such as the tomb of the matriarch Rachel. Every year his eminence, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem Fuad Twal, is greeted by the Latin Parish Priest of Bethlehem. A symbolic rejoining of the two major Christian cultures in the birthplace of Jesus.

Nazareth: All About the Merriment

Christianity is a religion that enjoys its landmarks. Housing the femur of a saint within a space makes that space holy. Life events and places that have experienced great feats of faith are always of high relevance to Christians throughout the world. So naturally, the next stop on our Christmas tour of Israel is in the city of Jesus’ upbringing, Nazareth.

The Christmas vibes in Nazareth are far more relaxed compared to Bethlehem. They often edge more towards a cultural bent, although there is still that historic component. There is a wonderful Christmas Market with all sorts of classic and locally made bits and bobs perfect for those last-minute present needs. Also, save some room for the endless array of freshly made baked goods and other tasty eats. Another important celebratory date to mark on your calendar is the Christmas Eve parade, which wraps up with a special midnight Christmas mass held at the Church of the Annunciation.

Jaffa: Santa Makes a Trip to the Old Port

Jaffa is the underdog city in the history of Jesus. It does not receive the same worldwide recognition for its historic link to Christianity, but bible studying Christians will know that Peter, Jesus’ disciple did perform miracles in Jaffa. One of these miracles, known as the healing of Tabitha, took place during the days that Peter stayed in the ancient city with Simon the Tanner. The miracle was commemorated by the Franciscan order with the consecration of the Church of St. Peter in the 17th century.

Jaffa also turns up the gas on its Christmas decorations with a stunning and large tree right in the center circle opposite the clock tower. Just like every other city, there is a huge weekend Christmas Market the whole month of December with the best funky Jaffa fair you can find. The Christmas Parade rolls down Yefet street with Santa leading the charge. One additional festivity that seems to be a singular sensation of Jaffa is the Winter Festival. Be sure to also check out what other Christmas events are going on in the general Tel Aviv area. Oftentimes bars and restaurants will be open and serving on Christmas and they will for sure be in theme.

Jerusalem: The Rock of the Christian World

Finishing our Christmas in Israel list is the big kahuna herself, Jerusalem of gold. God’s kingdom here on earth and one of the most talked-about and visited cities in the world. Christmas in Jerusalem takes place almost exclusively within the ancient Ottoman walls of the Old City. For the entire month of December, both the Christian Quarter and the Armenian Quarter are lit up and decorated with literally hundreds of lights and several different trees all of equal grandeur and opulence. Also don’t forget to head down to the Via Dolorosa to catch a glimpse of the Christian pilgrims who come every year to rewalk the steps of Jesus’ passion.

Also be sure to check out the Christmas Market, complete with crafts made by local East Jerusalem artisans. Christmas services are held the entire month of December at the Church of the Nativity, so be sure to head down that way to experience the more faith-based side of Christmas in Jerusalem.

Experiencing Faith First Hand

Here in Israel, at the epicenter of monotheistic faith, Christians of all denominations gather in these cities to celebrate the birth of the new king. The history and belief in Jesus Christ’s origin tale celebrated and told by Christians around the world began right here in Bethlehem, Nazareth, and Jerusalem. If you are able to make it into the country or live close by, we highly recommend stopping off at more than one location.

James Boutique Hôtel

The 4-star James Boutique Hotel is, above all, a refined and welcoming family establishment perfectly suited to the tranquillity and pleasure of each of its guests. (a 2-minute walk from the historic centre)

For a romantic, family or professional stay, the James Boutique Hotel in Colmar offers all its energy to meet the high standards of its clientele.

Located in the centre of Colmar, the capital of Alsatian wines, the hotel offers a unique and restful establishment with 30 rooms & junior suites that ensure great attention to detail and great comfort for its guests.

We look forward to being your personal advisor during your stay, for an incomparable immersive experience in Colmar and Alsace and the different treasures to be found off the beaten track: gastronomy, wines, eclectic landscapes, typical encounters, etc.

Your day will start with an Alsatian discovery workshop that will titillate your taste buds with our breakfast prepared entirely with local produce.

Our family and our team will ensure you faultless service during your break in Colmar.

Make your stay in Alsace an unforgettable experience. Here, you are at home.

Novotel Suites Colmar Centre

A modern nod to Alsace with neat and refined decor, the Novotel Suites Colmar Centre offers contemporary, spacious bedrooms in the city center. During your stay, take time to enjoy our terrace, lounge bar and well being center with sauna, hammam and fitness room for over 16s. Offering a rich and varied buffet breakfast, our hotel in Colmar also has a Boutique Gourmande where you can buy local products.

Our Colmar hotel is ideally situated – near the Unterlinden museum, Saint-Martin church and La Petite Venise with its canals and half-timbered houses. During the festive season, you are a five-minute walk from the Christmas market. With the TGV railway st During the vacation season, only a 5 min. walk to Christmas market. Close to exit of A35 highway, the hotel also has a garage for 10e/night by reservation subject to availability, free for bikes

Nestled in the midst of Alsace’s vineyards, Colmar’s charming traditional houses, canals, pretty flowers, gastronomy, fine wines, cultural wealth and heritage make it a miniature Alsace, preserving a particular art de vivre.

Odalys City La Rose d’Argent

Just 200 meters from the city centre of Colmar this Odalys Apart’hotel consists of a completely new building with 3 floors with lift connected to a fully renovated 2-storey house with loft. This holiday rental features a private garden, a spa and relaxation area, a multi-purpose meeting room and a breakfast room. Free parking spaces are available (spaces limited).

At your disposal: Spa area (200m²) : 35m² heated pool (30°) with a swim machine and massage jets; Fitness equipment; Laundry facilities (extra charge); Free Wifi; Outdoor parking (extra charge, spaces limited) – opposite 15 rue de Grillenbreit

The Odalys Apart’hotel La Rose d’Argent restaurant serves a breakfast buffet.

The holiday rentals in this Apart’hotel range from studios for 2 people to 1 bedoom apartments for 4 people. All accommodation has a kitchenette (table top fridge/freezer, ceramic hob with 2 burners, dishwasher for 6 settings, microwave/oven and cupboards). Holiday rentals have either a bathroom with bath or shower, heated towel rail, vanity unit with mirror, TV and Free Wifi. Some apartments have a balcony and all have access to the private garden between the two buildings.

Ibis Styles Colmar Centre

The ibis Styles Colmar Centre hotel is an 18th century malt house in the old town. It is 656 yds from the Unterlinden museum, 219 yds from the Bartholdi museum, 0.6 miles from the train station & 2.5 miles from the exhibition center. Located on the Alsace wine route, it has 47 rooms overlooking a courtyard, 24-hr bar, paying indoor car park (book in advance), inclusive Wi-Fi access and several restaurants close by. The hotel is 28 miles from Mulhouse, 46.6 miles from Strasbourg & 31.1 miles from Freiburg.

Hostellerie Le Maréchal

30 romantic rooms and suites individually decorated and personalized. All furnished with taste and respect for authenticity, our rooms are equipped with the latest technology.

At the heart of the Alsace wine route, this listed building preserves its charm while promoting optimal service and comfort.

Hôtel Quatorze

The Hotel Quatorze in Colmar, a 4-star boutique hotel, was born in the heart of the old town, a stone’s throw from the cathedral, Little Venice and the Unterlinden Museum. Old pharmacy of the XIX th century boutique hotel became very confidential, the Fourteen combines the charm of the past with a contemporary signature. The fusion between historic architecture and innovative design creates a unique atmosphere that highlights the Fourteen.

Come and live a unique experience in our hotel in the heart of Colmar and enjoy an atypical setting where authenticity and originality reign.

La Maison des Têtes

La Maison des Têtes embodies the simple elegance of beautiful houses which, over the centuries, have combined the art of hospitality.

It brings to life a historical and cultural heritage through a 5-star hotel, the Historic Brasserie and a Michelin-starred gourmet restaurant. The hosts, Marilyn and Eric Girardin, draw inspiration from the past while being firmly rooted in the present and bring this heritage to life in the 21st century. Today, the Maison des Têtes is the successful alchemy between the strength of Alsatian tradition and modernity.

Le Colombier

The 4 * Hotel Le Colombier is the ideal location to visit the city centre of Colmar and the symbolic district “Little Venice”. Hotel Colombier, we invite you to discover the stylish mix of antique and modern furniture from Italian designers. The hotel Le Colombier is located in the historic centre of Colmar, in the ‘Little Venice’ district. This takes its name from the orientation of the houses that are located directly on the River “Lauch”.

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