Regarded as the holy ground for the three great monotheistic religions of Judaism, Christianity and Islam, the state of Israel is naturally home to some of the world’s most significant pilgrimage sites. But other than searching for faith in ancient cities such as Nazareth, Bethlehem and Jerusalem, there’s also immense natural beauty in the form of the storied Sea of Galilee and the multi-hued desert sands of the Negev waiting to be discovered. And when it is time to just kick back and relax, cosmopolitan Tel Aviv’s and Jaffa’s relaxed Mediterranean outlook await to usher all eager comers into their versions of the good life. Set foot on the world’s most spiritual place today with a customised Israel tour package from Chan Brothers Travel Private Tours, and welcome to the “The Holy Land”.

A journey of faiths
Sacred throughout history to the three great faiths of Judaism, Christianity and Islam, the mystical city of Jerusalem packs a spectacular array of religious sites in its arsenal. Head to The Western Wall, also known as the Wailing Wall, and connect with the centuries of tears and prayers that Jews shed towards their faith. Adjourn to Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Christianity’s holiest place, and relive the scenes where Jesus was crucified, buried and resurrected. Ascend to the Temple Mount courtyard and admire the gold-tiled Dome of the Rock, Islam’s holy sanctuary where Prophet Muhammad ascended to heaven. Then round up your spiritual quest in Bethlehem and Nazareth to visit other important biblical sites such as Church of the Nativity and Basilica of the Annunciation.


Land of creation
As much as Israel is a country full of religious sights, it is also regarded by these same faiths as the place where God first envisioned how diverse the world should look like. At the stunning Sea of Galilee region, reimagine the story of Jesus delivering the famous Sermon on the Mount while overlooking the azure lake and verdant valley below atop the Mount of Beatitudes. Dive and immerse into the ancient hot springs of Tiberias, as popular now as it was since Roman times. Next, pack your sense of adventure and head to the Negev Desert to marvel at the erosion crater of Makhtesh Ramon painted with dusty sands of purple, black, red and gold all at once.


A modern escape
After having your fill of the quintessential religious and nature highlights of Israel, it is time for an entirely different take on the country in the cosmopolitan capital of Tel Aviv. Defined by its international residents and a taste for the good life, the capital city is modern, vibrant and constantly on the move. Put away your faith for the moment and immerse in the city’s main religion of hedonism in which fine beaches, hip restaurants, bustling bars and groundbreaking art compete for your attention. When you feel like taking the pace down a notch slower, hop over to nearby honey-coloured Jaffa where an easy Mediterranean lifestyle lures you with exotic bazaars, artisan boutiques and al fresco dining in charming alleys.


For other destinations in the Middle East, try:

• Iran tour package
• Jordan tour package
• United Arab Emirates tour package

Journey into the history of faith today with a customised Israel tour package from Chan Brothers Travel Private Tours. Call 6212 9935 or email privatetours@chanbrothers.com.sg for more information.