This trip really helped me truly appreciate and better understand one of the most historical and complicated geographical regions on planet Earth.
A once in a lifetime experience!
Karen is exceptional in her position - always available , organized , and helping everyone feel included.
The tour and the whole Israel travel experience was amazing, and I would highly recommend this adventure to others.
The Israeli experience was amazing, with the perfect blend of history, religion, culture, exercise, and downtime.
Most trips are about the marathon first and the experience second. Jerusalem is definitely the experience first and the marathon second.
Everything was just amazing! I think the trip to Masada was the best for me, but certainly enjoyed every aspect of the trip.
All was excellent and very well done. I loved the mix of historical and biblical sites and information. Of course, they certainly overlap there!
My favorite day was when we went to Bethlehem and Yad Vashem. I also enjoyed the tour of Old Jaffe in Tel Aviv, but the entire trip was incredible. We definitely had full days, but I felt like I had enough downtime. The group dinners were decadent, and it was a great way to meet the others and get to know them. Karen was outstanding and kept us well informed before and during the trip. Our Israeli guide, Mira, was excellent and informative. I learned so much history from her.
We had a wonderful time and experience. We feel Karen is definitely top notch as far as tour planner and guide! Thank you so much!
The opportunity to go to Israel with energetic, curious, active people. I loved traveling again after Covid! I loved walking where Jesus walked, experiencing the Middle Eastern culture, being in the land that is so much in the news, and getting a little feel for the tension there. The food was the best! I loved being with old friends from other trips, and meeting new.
Karen was amazing! She really helped answer any and all questions. I am excited to tour with her again soon!
It was so cool to be able to run a marathon in Jerusalem! This trip combined my love of Israel and my love of marathons. Amazing time!
The destinations and selection of specific tours were wonderful. Lea, docent for Israel portion of touring was outstanding, knowledgeable funny and a pleasure to be with. Camaraderie among fellow travelers was great. Karen Hoch was an excellent tour facilitator overall and oversaw the daily planning and scheduling of events extremely well.
Nomi was a WONDERFUL local guide! I had been to Israel twice before and she let us know everything; some things I didn't even know from my two prior tours. She had us laughing, crying, and always engaged. And of course Karen and Jacqui, whom I had as tour leaders on previous tours, were both fantastic as always. They are pleasant, detail oriented, and great leaders.
Wow...all the various experiences were memorable and very enjoyable. Masada was awesome, as was our visit to the grotto. The kibbutz was unique and was glad to experience it. Jerusalem was definitely a highlight. The museums (both the Holocaust and the Israel Museum) were well worth the visit. Petra was definitely a highlight. Based on the itinerary, we were definitely on the go a lot but we saw so much and I don't regret it. I would advise those looking for more free time to come in early or stay later.
The marathon- it was absolutely tough, but the views and post-race party made it completely worth it. I don't know that I would ever do that race again, but I would highly recommend it! Going to the Dead Sea the day after was timed just right. That is the ultimate epsom salt recovery soak.
The Holy Land...a trip to the Holy Land. Also, I've been on tours with both Jacqui and Karen, so when I saw they were the tour leaders, I didn't hesitate to sign up.
I always travel with Marathon Tours (this was my 17th trip) because of how well organized the trips are, how easy Marathon Tours makes it to go to these amazing destinations, your great staff who takes such good care of everyone, and the others traveling in the group - nothing better than traveling with other runners!
The historical significance of Israel is undeniable. I enjoyed all the carefully planned tours and lovely accommodations. The half-marathon was challenging but running through the streets of the Old City was an experience of a lifetime. This has been one of my most enjoyable trips taken with Marathon Tours. I will enthusiastically recommend Jerusalem to anyone who feels they are up for the very hilly challenging course. I really can't say enough positive things.
