River Jordan

The River Jordan forms a border between Israel and Jordan. This river flows from the mountains in the north, near Mt. Hermon, and eventually empties into the Dead Sea. In Galilee, it is clear and blue, and as it descends into the Jordan Rift Valley it becomes brown and muddy.

Although there are a multiple traditional sites of Jesus' baptism, we will visit a site near ancient "Bethabara" that will help us best visualize this sacred moment. Many pilgrims, come here to be baptized, which you will enjoy observing. On each side of the river are armed military: on one side Jordanian soldiers, on the other Israeli. Each is protecting their side of the border as they observe tourists and pilgrims remembering the "the Lamb of God" who first came here beyond Jordan to "fulfill all righteousness".

Israeli-Palestinian Conflict

How should Latter-day Saints view this conflict? see this link to an old church article that I think still applies:

https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/new-era/1971/08/q-and-a-questions-and-answers/how-does-a-latter-day-saint-look-at-the-current-israeli-arab-conflict?lang=eng

In a lot of ways, Israel is a first world country. In most parts of Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, there is almost every convenience one can find in the USA. Modern infrastructures and cleanliness standards, at times will make it indistinguishable from American life. As we pass thru other parts of the West Bank, it may feel more like Mexico, and the stark contrasts between the two will not be lost on you.

Here's what you need to know:

Water: In most parts of Israel, the water will be safe to bathe, brush teeth, wash hands, and even to drink. However, since you are traveling far from home, I would suggest buying inexpensive bottled water as we travel each day. There will be many opportunities to do so and it will be wise to stay hydrated as we travel.

Bathrooms: There are plenty of clean bathrooms as we travel in Israel. The nicest will be in the hotels, followed by popular tourist destinations, and restaurants we will visit.

Health: There are plenty of modern pharmacies and reliable hospitals and care facilities to handle any urgent or emergency situations where we will be staying. It would be wise to bring any necessary medications, including prescriptions (bring a copy of the prescription or doctor's note in case you are questioned at border control or customs) or other over-the-counter convenient medications (anti-diarrhea, nausea, pain reliever, etc.).

Wake Up Times: The counsel from D&C 88 is applicable on this trip: "retire to thy bed early, that ye may not be weary; arise early, that your bodies and your minds may be invigorated." Your health and our collective experience depends on you getting adequate rest. You will get much more out of your trip by arising early, then by staying up late! So, when we get back to the hotel, let your body rest so you are prepared for the next day.

You will get a wake up call in your hotel room each day to help us stay on schedule and so we are not rushed at these sacred sites.

Plan a realistic time table. Give yourself time to eat. If bus it to leave at 8:00 a.m., be on the bus at 7:55 a.m. at the latest.

Don't Be Dumb: Please listen carefully to the instructions you are given by your guide or tour leader. If you are told not to got somewhere or do something, please don't do it. If you are told to be back by a certain time, or go a certain way, just do it. Don't assume your know or can figure it out on your own. The leaders and guides who know Israel best want to maximize your once-in-a-lifetime experience, so just ask. Israel is safe place, but not if you're dumb. :) If you feel unsure or have a question, check with us. And above all, rely on the Holy Ghost.