[Twinkletoes]

Just got the "nod" from DH that I can join the tour in 11 days to the HOLY LAND!!!

My cousin & her DH formed a tour company (they've been all over the world) and are leaving on Jan. 16th for Petra, then on to Jerusalem on the 21st.

Has anyone on NT been there? Tell me what to expect -- I just barely read thru the itineraries:

http://www.discoveryxa.com/petra_itinerary.cfm
http://www.discoveryxa.com/israel_itinerary.cfm

The women don't have to cover their heads there, do they? It says we'll be sleeping with the Bedouins for a night! Am I going to be able to use my CPAP machine at all?

I've got so much to do to get ready! I don't even have my Christmas decorations put away! I'm so excited!!!

[Erin524]

Lucky you... if I wasnt afraid to visit the Middle East and the Holy Land (afraid to go anywhere for that matter), I'd be there in a heartbeat. I may be an atheist, but I love archaeology and history, and Israel has a lot of places and stuff that I want to see.

[tkrik]

Oh, Twink! How fun! I am so glad you are able to go on this trip. What a great experience and I can't wait to hear about all your adventures.

Wishing you a wonderful and safe trip!

[braingonebad]

Wow, what an adventure! Sorry, no advice, never been. But i look forward to hearing about it.

[karousel]

I've only heard others talk about going but no details you probably are looking for! It sounds very exciting and I hope you have an awesome time!

[kicker]

How wonderful. Bring a scarf in case you need
(don't Muslims, etc. (Bedouins?) require it? You know Israel has OKed Stem cell operations for MS if you need anything to do. As a Trivia buddy (always losing to you!) will you still be able to play?? (say no, please say no) What a great trip!!!!

[Dejibo]

Its wonderful! You will be amazed by the buildings, and the history, and the richness of how deep you feel when you are there. BRING WATER! take a water carry bottle with you, even if you have to pack one, and refill it along the way. I got so thirsty from all the walking. many things are not accessable to scooters, or chairs, and you need to hoof it. FLAT shoes! comfy shoes! dont care if they are pretty. bring your most comfy shoes. The ground isnt always flat under you in those places, and you need sure footing. it will also save your back to have a firm grip on the ground.

I am so jealous! its a wonderful trip, and will do great things for your spirit. Dont forget your camera with a huge memory card. Take as many rest breaks as you can, when you can.

[Twinkletoes]

Thank you friends, for sharing my enthusiasm!

Ummmm, do you need a license to drive a camel?

[Aarcyn]

My DS went about a couple of years ago with a group.

Israel is more secular than you think. The Wailing Wall separates the women from the men. I think it is out of respect for the ultra orthodox sect that also lives in Jerusalem.

So you can take a scarf but I have not heard of any instance where you are required to wear it.

I hope you get to go on an archeological dig. That is one place I would love to visit. Entire neighborhoods completely buried by the sands of time.

[Aarcyn]

oh, and camels spit. Nasty tempered creatures. I will try to find you a picture Dann took while on a ride and send it to your e-mail address. We printed it for our house. Really cool picture.