Bethlehem is the site where Christians believe Jesus was born. As a result, it's one of the main Christian pilgrimage sites in the entire Holy Land. Inhabited for over 3,000 years, Bethlehem is also one of the oldest continuously occupied cities in the world. The main sites within the town include the Church of the Nativity, the oldest operating church in the world, as well as Manger Square, and the labyrinthine streets that surround it. Although Bethlehem is less than six miles outside of Jerusalem, it technically is part of the West Bank. As a result, visitors must cross a military checkpoint. Be prepared to have a passport at all times. Many day-tour operators conduct full-day and half-day tours from Jerusalem. Tours can vary greatly so pay careful attention; some tours will be strictly of Bethlehem, while others frequently add on the sites in Old Jerusalem. One such tour operator, Ben Harim, offered combined tours of Bethlehem and Jerusalem for $90, as of April, 2010.
Ben Harim
36 Hanamal st.
POB 13221
Tel Aviv, Israel 61131
011-972-35-42-20-00
beinharim.co.il
The Dead Sea is the lowest point on Earth and it's also the saltiest body of water on the planet. Renowned even in ancient times for its minerals and restorative health benefits, the Dead Sea remains a prime attraction in Israel. Located less than 35 miles from Jerusalem at its closest point according to Google Maps, the Dead Sea is easily reachable from Jerusalem as a day trip. At the northern end, visitors will find small beaches and minimal spa treatments around the towns of Mitspe Shalem and Ein Gedi. All of the major resorts are in Ein Bokek on the southern end of the Dead Sea, which is 95 miles away from Jerusalem.
During biblical times, King Herod built Masada as a palace situated on top of a large mesa. When the Romans took over the region, the Jews captured the palace and turned it into a fort, which withstood a multi-year Roman siege, before finally being captured. Today, Masada is a national park and its history of Jewish resistance continues to play a prominent role in Israel's psyche. Buses 444 and 486 run daily from Jerusalem. Tour operators often combine day trips to Masada with trips to the Dead Sea. For example, Ben Harim offered a combination tour starting at $92, as of April 2010.
