The following are some health and safety tips to help you prepare for your time in the Holy Land. Many of these items are simple common-sense reminders, while others have specific bearing to the region.

 

Protection from Sun – The intensity of the sun in the Holy Land from spring to autumn is quite strong. If you are a fair-skinned individual, it’s important to wear lightweight clothes that cover your arms, shoulders, and neck. Bringing a pair of high-quality sunglasses and a brimmed hat is also recommended.

 

Drinking-Water – Tap water in all of the hotels you will be staying in during your pilgrimage is clean. However, it is always a good idea to drink bottled water. Dehydration is one of the most common health concerns for pilgrims traveling to the Holy Land. The combination of traveling in hot, dry heat and adjusting to a new diet can often lead to dehydration. Drink water frequently and consider bringing along salt tablets.

 

Adjusting to Food – Food served in most Holy Land restaurants is similar to that served in Western countries. However, those with sensitive stomachs should consider bringing along over-the-counter medication to offset any digestive discomfort that may occur.

 

Jet Lag – Plan on resting as much as possible during the first two days of your pilgrimage. It will help overcome jet lag and help prepare you for the rest of your pilgrimage. Remember that you will be flying into the next day en route from North America, meaning that you will lose a full day to time adjustments along with the actual hours of travel. Nativity Pilgrimage will work with your tour leaders to include as much time to rest as possible. Also remember to give yourself time to adjust being at home once you return from your pilgrimage.

 

Bathrooms & Public Restrooms – Restaurant and hotel restrooms will be similar to those you’re accustomed to at home. There are few public restrooms in the Holy Land, but every church, with the exception of the Holy Sepulcher, have them. We recommend you bring wet wipes and anti-bacterial gel with you at all times.

 

Passport – You will need your passport with you throughout your pilgrimage. It’s a good idea to keep it on your person at all times or in your hotel room safe. If your guide tells you it’s permissible to not have your passport with you on a certain day of touring, it should be fine.

 

Theft Protection – There are a few locations in Jerusalem where pickpockets are known to operate. Keep your wallet or purse fastened, and close to you, and be careful of anyone who appears to make physical contact with you in an unusual manner. Tell your guide or group leader immediately if you suspect someone is trying to steal from you, or if you have lost an item to theft.

 

Lost Items – It is extremely difficult for lost items to be recovered by their owners while on pilgrimage. If you have lost insured items that need reporting, please inform your guide and group leader directly. There are tourism police units working in all districts of the Holy Land.

 

Regional Safety and Security – The Holy Land is a safe place to visit. Even during periods of conflict, tourists and pilgrims have come to the Holy Land and returned safely to their homes without incident. Nativity Pilgrimage, along with your tour organizer, will monitor the security situation at all times and let you know of any changes in your pilgrimage itinerary. When you arrive in the Holy Land, you may be surprised to see the amount of armed police, soldiers, security forces, along with military-style fortifications and walls. Do not be alarmed by this. While unfortunate, it is part of daily life in the Holy Land.

 

Our professional team is here to answer any questions or concerns you may have. Contact us during business regular business hours.

  • Monday – Friday

    9:00 am to 5:00 pm

  • 15710 John F Kennedy Blvd.

    Suite 225

    Houston, TX 77032

  • Office: 832-406-7050

    Toll Free: 1-844-400-9559

  • info@nativitypilgrimage.com
  • www.nativitypilgrimage.com