What to know before you travel to Israel, Jordan & Egypt
Visa Information 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. Speak with your Pilgrim Tours Representative or your Group Leader for travel Insurance options.
Passport &Visa Information
US citizens need a valid U.S. passport with at least six months validity beyond intended stay, to enter all three countries. Make two photocopies of your passport. Leave one copy at home and carry the other separately from your original.
Israel: U.S. Citizens do not need a visa when entering Israel.
Jordan: In Jordan U.S. Citizens’ visas are handled by Pilgrim Tours at the border crossing or port dock.
Egypt: In Egypt U.S. Citizens’ visas are handled by Pilgrim Tours at the border crossing or port dock.
Non U. S. Citizens are responsible to fulfill appropriate entry requirements of destination. Contact your Consulate office for requirements.
Tipping
Tipping in Egypt should not be optional. For those taking the Nile Cruise, guides should be given tips for the entire cruise in advance. Your guide will take care of tipping all persons including cruise personnel, bus and buggy drivers during day and night excursions, extra baggage handling, etc. For the land portion of your tour, guides in Egypt will also handle hotel and driver tipping. Pilgrim Tours recommends that you put Egypt tips in an envelope prior to departure ($7 per person per day for land portion and $11 per person per day for cruise portion). Land portion tips can be given at the end of the tour with a thank-you for services rendered.
Egypt is a poor country with everyone expecting a tip or “baksheesh” for every service provided including most bathroom use. Keep a small supply of change available or U.S. $1.00 bills for tipping in Egypt. When you are sightseeing or dining on your own, do not feel obligated to tip everyone. Tip taxi drivers 10-15% of the fare.
Tipping in Jordan should not be optional. Pilgrim Tours recommends that $1 per person per day be given in advance to the guide to handle hotel gratuities. Pilgrim Tours recommends that you put the Jordan tips in an envelope prior to departure ($2 per person per day for the driver and $4 per person per day for the guide). Land portion tips can be given at the end of the tour with a thank-you for services rendered.
On some of our Israel tour programs you may have pre-paid your tips, so you do not need to tip the hotel staff, guide and driver individually. That will be taken care of for you by your pastor leader or our Pilgrim Tours representative. Review all your past and present documentation sent by Pilgrim Tours, to verify if your tips have been pre-paid. As a show of appreciation, and as only the minimum tipping amount has been pre-paid, Pilgrim encourages travelers to provide additional tips to the driver and guide for their services provided. Remember that a tip or gratuity is earned for services rendered in a courteous and professional manner.
In Israel a service charge is often added to the bill in hotels and restaurants. However, if it is omitted, a tip of 10-12% is customary. A usual tip for tour bus drivers is $2.00 per person, per day and a tour escort usually receives $4.00 per person, per day. Hotel Staff receives $1.00 per person, per day. Do not tip taxi drivers in Israel. Pay only by what the meter shows unless the cab driver is handling baggage for you.
Ferry crossing procedures from Jordan into Egypt
1. When motor coach arrives at the harbor entrance, the Jordan Representative will go inside the harbor office to submit a document with group name, nationality, number of people and program while in Jordan (takes around 30 minutes).
2. Representative will return to bus and the motor coach will proceed inside the harbor.
3. Representative will collect passports from group and take them to the immigration officer for passport control/stamp to be added to each passport.
4. Upon his return the Representative will give a ferry boarding pass to each member of the group and return the passports (with stamp enclosed).
5. Representative will then proceed with the coach to the ferry boat entrance.
6. While the harbor porters are putting the luggage on the ferry, the group will get off bus and board the ferry boat for departure.
Border crossing from Israel to Jordan
The travel across Israel to cross into Jordan starts late in the morning and is not completed until the afternoon. Because of time restraints to get through customs early in the day, it is impossible to fit in a stop for lunch. There are no adequate lunch facilities at the border crossing. There is a small concession stand after the luggage scan and prior to the security check, but it only sells drinks, chips and candy bars.
It is recommended that you plan ahead and take extra food at breakfast time to eat at noon while traveling. This is not an uncommon practice for people to do for days that are full of travel in areas where food is not available. You might also plan to purchase snacks the day before to take along.
Currency
U.S. dollars can be used in all three countries. It is recommended that you take with you a large amount of $1.00 and $5.00 bills for tipping and small purchases.
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. When using an ATM machine, please be advised that the ATM machines dispense money in EGYPTIAN POUNDS - NOT US DOLLARS.
The currency in Jordan is the Jordanian Dinar (JD). Foreign currency and travelers checks can be changed at any bank or moneychanger. American Express, Visa, Master Card and Diners Club are the most widely accepted credit cards and can be used at major hotels, restaurants and tourists shops. ATMs are available, though acceptance of foreign cards is limited. Please be advised that the ATM machines dispense money in JORDANIAN DINAR - NOT US DOLLARS.
There are no restrictions on the import and export of Jordanian or foreign 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 that are all connected to European and American banking systems. Please be advised that the ATM machines dispense money in SHEKELS - NOT US DOLLARS. Once again U.S. dollars are recommended for use for small purchases and tipping.
Please Note: 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 in Egypt, Jordan, Israel is 220 volts. You will need to bring along the necessary converters to operate any 120 volt appliances such as hair dryers, electric razors, etc.
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 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.
Health Information
Modern medical services are readily available in Jordan & 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. 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 any necessary immunizations he may suggest. Try to avoid drinking the tap water in all countries visited.
Languages Spoken
Hebrew, Arabic and English, French
Baggage Allowance
Due to the size of baggage compartments in touring coaches, each passenger is restricted to ONE suitcase and ONE carry-on bag (in addition to your purse, camera case or video camera). A total dimension of the bag to be checked on the airplane is not to exceed 62 inches (length + width + height) and should not weigh more than 50 lbs. Carry-on luggage is not to exceed a 45-inch dimension (length + width + height) and should not weigh more than 11 lbs, as it must fit under the seat in front of you or in the overhead compartment. Due to the constant change in the air industry we recommend you check the baggage allowance for your air carrier before your departure.
Be sure your luggage is clearly marked on the inside and outside. If you are traveling with a tour group, you must use the luggage tags provided along with your own.
Note: Due to recent changes in baggage allowance in the industry we advise checking with your airlines before you depart to see if there has been a change in their regulations.
Time Zone
Seven hours ahead of EST and two hours ahead of GMT.
Climate
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.
Cairo |
Average Temperature |
Average Rain Fall |
|---|---|---|
Jan-Mar |
48-71F |
0” |
Apr-Jun |
62-90F |
0” |
Jul-Sep |
69-94F |
0” |
Oct-Dec |
56-78F |
0” |
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.
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.
Jerusalem |
Average Temperature |
Average Rain Fall |
|---|---|---|
Jan-Mar |
43-55F |
4” |
Apr-Jun |
54-75F |
1” |
Jul-Sep |
55-80F |
0” |
Oct-Dec |
49-63F |
2” |
Fluids
To avoid dehydration which is very common in extremely dry climates, drink plenty of water. For all three countries, 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. Use caution when brushing your teeth with tap water in Egypt and Jordan.
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 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.
Food and Meals
It is important to be aware that most fruits and vegetables should not be eaten raw in Egypt and Jordan. 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.
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.
Eating well and heartily is part of the Jordanian traditions, and there are many fine restaurants that offer a wide selection of authentic Arabic food at reasonable prices. Hotels offer a mixed menu of Arabic and continental cuisine. Dishes to try are the national dish, Mansaf, a whole stewed lamb with cooked yogurt sauce served on a bed of rice. Another dish is Musakhan, which is made with chicken, onions, olive oil, pine seeds and seasoning. Cooked in an oven on a thick loaf of Arabic bread; Maglouba, a meat or fish and vegetable stew served with rice; and of course, the basic Shish Kabab, pieces of lamb, marinated chicken and patties of minced and spiced lamb meat all cooked over a charcoal fire with onions and tomatoes are all things you might want to try.
Jordanian Arabic coffee is strong and served in tiny cups; it is often flavored with cardamom. Don’t try to drink the last mouthful, as it will be full of coffee grounds. Shake the cup to indicate that you do not want a refill. Turkish coffee is also common, and American coffee is available in the cities. Decaffeinated coffee is offered in the larger hotels.
There’s a wide range of cuisine in Israel which has distinctive characteristics. They especially have a fondness for fresh, finely chopped salads, eaten at every meal including breakfast. In general the cuisine is a fusion of East and West, plus many dishes and flavors brought by Jewish immigrants from all over the world. Most restaurants are moderately priced. Table service is the norm, except at the many low-cost snack bars. Restaurants, bars and cafes catering for tourists usually have menus in both Hebrew and English. It is safe to eat fresh fruits and vegetables in Israel.
Things to know: The Hebrew word kosher means conforming to Jewish religious laws. Milk, cream or cheese may not be served in the same meal as meat. Pork and shellfish are not kosher, and rarely seen, although imitation seafood is common and may be indistinguishable from the real thing.
National specialties:
Falafel (deep fried balls of mashed chickpeas) in pita, with hummus (ground chickpeas), tahina (sesame seed sauce) and salads.
Salads, which include savoury vegetable dishes served cold, such as aubergines.
Shishlik (charcoal grilled meat on a skewer).
Shwarma (slices of grilled meat served in a pita bread with salad).
Ashkenazi classics like cholent (Shabbat meat stew) and gefilte fish, a white fish dish.
Soft drinks - Israelis are among the world’s largest consumers.
Fresh fruit juices - very popular and widely available, made from all kinds of fruit.
Shopping
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. Egypt’s shopping treasures include wooden pieces inlaid with mother-of-pearl, alabaster and soapstone carvings and antique reproductions. However, be careful when buying reproductions from stalls in the bazaars. The best place for purchasing reproductions is at the Egyptian Museum.
Every town in Jordan will have a souk (market), and there are also many good craft and jewelry shops. There is a particularly good gold and jewelry market in Amman that has over 50 shops. Special items include Hebron glass, mother-of-pearl boxes, pottery, backgammon sets, embroidered tablecloths, nativity sets made of olive wood, leather hassocks, old and new brass and copper items, and caftans hand-embroidered with silver and gold thread.
There are countless opportunities for shopping in Israel in the shopping centers that have sprung up in the past few decades - including the Malkha Mall, the largest in the Middle East - as well as in the colorful markets, annual bazaars, street malls, and shops in the large cities - all of which offer attractive imported and locally-made items. All of the towns in Israel have bazaars but the ultimate is to be found in the Old
City of Jerusalem. Favorite items to purchase include leather goods, pottery, crafts, olive-wood carvings and hand-blown glass.
In all three countries, bargaining is acceptable but in your effort to keep the price low, do so without being insulting or arrogant towards the vendors.
Pre-Flight
Leave your travel information with a family member or friend, including a copy of your passport, your flight itinerary, travel itinerary, hotel names and phone numbers. In the event of an emergency, family members may contact Pilgrim Tours at 800-322-0788.
Dress comfortably for the flight, wearing clothes that allow freedom of movement and shoes that slip on and off easily.
When at the airport, never leave your luggage unattended for any length of time…no matter how short. Do not accept packages from strangers to carry on to the plane for them.
Check-in time for international flights is recommended at a minimum of 2 1/2 to 3 hours prior to departure. When checking in at the airport, a valid passport and visa (if required) is needed as proof of identification of each traveler.
In order to avoid jet-lag, avoid caffeine, alcohol and carbonated beverages. Natural fruit juice or water is a better choice.
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.
NILE CRUISE DRESS: Appropriate dress at dinner is “Smart Casual” although you will not feel out of place with dressier clothes.
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) are easier to use when sightseeing than an umbrella.
However, the chances of rain in Egypt very slight and the above climate listings will allow you to plan accordingly for Jordan & Israel.
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 location which requires 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.
If you are traveling with a companion please consider cross-packing. Put half of your items in your companion’s luggage and vice-versa. This will ease the frustration of lost luggage. Do not over-pack. Leave room in your suitcase for souvenirs.
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 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).
Purchase your film and batteries in the US. Remember to bring extra for your video camera.
General Information
Refrain from discussing any Political or Cultural views. This is unwelcome in Egypt & Jordan!
Women should never travel alone outside the main tourist areas in Egypt at night. They should also ignore any rude remarks directed at them and avoid eye contact with men.
Show respect for the religious observances in each 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 Israel, the Bible could well be the best guidebook - bring one along.
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 Egypt, Jordan & Israel.
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.
Be sure to carry your passport with you at all times around the world?
Sincerely in Christ,
Lucien and Molly Behar
