TRAVEL TO THE HOLY WITH

DR. TOM PHILLIPS (view resume)
Contact  DR. TOM PHILLIPS

Dr. Thomas E. Phillips (send Phillips an email), professor of New Testament and early Christian studies at Point Loma Nazarene University.  Dr. Phillips has a Ph.D. in New Testament from Southern Methodist University and has led trips to the Holy Land for Eastern Nazarene College and Colorado Christian University.  He is the author and editor of three scholarly books and his work has been published in many scholarly and popular journals and periodicals, including Holy Land Studies, Wesleyan Theological Journal, Illustrated Bible Life, Horizons in Biblical Theology, Expository Times, Preacher’s Magazine, Currents in Biblical Research, Catholic Biblical Quarterly, Journal for the Study of the New Testament, Journal of Biblical Literature, and The Herald of Holiness.                                          Dr. Phillips with some student in Pella, Greece.>>>>

How much does it cost?

$3159
 

What all is covered by the cost of the trip?

The price of the trip includes ground transportation, lodging, taxes and governmental fees, all morning and evening meals (lunch is not included), admission to all sites, tips, and international airfare.  The price does not include the price of lunch each day or the price of keepsakes. 

Who may go on this trip?
The trip is open to anyone who wishes to see the Holy Land.  People of ages are welcome to join us.  I have had people participate in my trips from grade school age to retirees.

Aren’t many similar trips to the Holy Land cheaper?

No.  Many travel companies practice a “bait-and-switch” method of sales.  They advertise a price that either is eventually unavailable or is later inflated with additional “fees” (like taxes, tips, entry fees, oversea ground transportation, visa fees, meals, etc.).  The pricing policy here is realistic and does not inflate after you have committed to travel.

Is it safe?
Given the contemporary world, no one can ever assure anyone’s complete safety anywhere in the world.  The Holy Land is no exception to this sad reality.  However, travel to and within Jordan, Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories does not place one at significantly greater risk of being a victim of violence than does travel to and within any major American city.  I have enough confidence in the safety of travel to and within this part of the world that I have taken my twelve year old daughter to the Holy Land with me.   In several trips to the area—even during some pretty troubled times at in 2003, I—nor anyone with my groups—has felt threatened by violence.

Can I have a single room?
All prices are based upon double occupancy. A private room is an additional $347.

Is this trip sponsored by the university where you teach?

No.  PLNU, where I teach, is in no way associated with this trip.  The trip has no institutional affiliation.

Can I get college credit for the trip?

No.  Since the trip is not associated with any university, no college credit is available.

Can I be baptized in the Jordan River?
Yes.  Dr. Phillips will baptize anyone who has not been baptized before and who professes Christ as Lord.  For those who have been baptized before, they may renew their baptismal vows at the Jordan River.

Will we celebrate the Lord’s Supper at any point?
Yes.  For those who wish to celebrate the Lord’s Supper, we will offer the sacrament while on the Mount of the Beatitudes (overlooking the Sea of Galilee).

Are there a limited number of places available on this trip?
Yes.  The trip is limited to the number of people who can comfortably travel in a single bus while on the ground.

What if the trip is cancelled?
If we cancel the trip, you will get a full refund.

Do I need a passport?
Yes.  You will need a passport at least six weeks before we travel.  You start the passport process at http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html.

What should I pack?

Pack cool casual clothes (including a bathing suit), a hat and comfortable walking shoes.  You do not need formal clothes.  Pack sun screen, sun glasses, toiletries, lots of film, a notebook, pens, and a bible.  Remember, you are limited to one suitcase and one carry-on.  At many, but not all, sites, shorts and sleeveless shirts are prohibited.

What about electrical plugs in the Middle East?

Your electrical equipment will work in the area, but you will need to purchase an adaptor.  Adaptors which enable your American devices to work in the Middle East are available to stores like Radio Shack for about $20.

Should I take my computer?

That is a personal decision.  If you plan to take digital pictures, your computer will be helpful (and can be recharged with the proper adaptor).  No one on one of my trips has ever had anything stolen from a hotel room, but the same risks apply in the Holy Land as apply anywhere else in the world.  Security checks are sometimes slower for those who travel with computers.

What kind of meals will be available?
Some meals will be served as buffets (“all you can eat”) with traditional Arabic, Jewish, American dishes from which to choose.  Other meals will be served in sit down style with service to your table.  Lunch will be purchased at local restaurants (at the traveler’s expense).

How much cash should I take?

The answer to this question largely depends upon each individual’s personal spending habits.  The only direct expenses that travelers will incur are lunch time meals and beverages (other than water) at meal times.  (In the Middle East, hotels traditionally serve only water and charge a nominal fee [about $1] for any additional beverage.)  I have traveled with people who spent less $100 on a fifteen day trip and with people who have spent more than $500 in the same length of time.  (Most outlets take credit cards and ATMs are widely available, but I do NOT recommend traveler’s checks—many places will not accept traveler’s checks and many others add a surcharge to traveler’s checks).  As a general guideline, I would recommend about $300 in cash for most travelers.

Will the trip offer time for personal prayer and spiritual reflection?

Yes.  Most days will include a few hours in the evening when travelers can engage in unstructured activities ranging from personal prayer and meditation to walks along the Sea of Galilee.

What are the hotel accommodations like?
Our accommodations are generally in three and four hotels, comparable to moderately priced American hotels.  All are clean, safe and professionally staffed.  Some have pools, saunas, hot tubs and exercise.  All have private bathrooms and comfortable beds.

Will we meet with any local people?
Yes.  We will organize evening programs with people who represent the diversity of political and religious opinions in the Middle East.  The programs allow the travelers to meet local Christians, Jews and Muslims from both Israel and Palestinians.  Travelers will be able to dialogue with a wide spectrum of opinion.

How do I register for the trip?

Contact Dr. Phillips at enctom@yahoo.com or 619-523-0751. 

HOME

7/5/08