Arrived safely in Tel Aviv at 5:20 pm local time. Israel is 8 hours ahead of Central time so we arrived at 10:20 am on Monday March 7. The fight was smooth but long - about 9 3/4 hours. The plane was a 747-400 with 10 seats across and about 60 rows. Plus it had 2 levels with the the second level being First class and Business class. We didn't get to see that level!
Had two meals on the plane. The first was at 1 a.m. And was chicken and rice, salad, hummus and pita bread and a dessert. We had to eat in the dark as the lights were not working in our area. Didn't really instill a lot of confidence in the airplane!
We then tried to sleep. I think Jeremy, Michelle and Sean did fairly well. Mom slept some but I had challenges. I finally drifted off then got up to use the bathroom thinking that it must be almost time to land. I was disappointed to find out we had another 4 hours to go!
Had our second meal on the plane at 12 noon. Had an omelette, bagel, fruit, cold fish (I'm the only one who ate it in our family!) and yogurt.
As we approached the airport in Tel Aviv the pilot said something in Hebrew and everyone clapped. The after landing he said something else and people clapped again. I asked a guide what that was about and he said that it is a custom to applaud when the Jews come home to Israel. Several people told us "Welcome home" emphasis given out common roots with the Jews.
We then we're bussed to our hotel , the Dan Panorama, in Tel Aviv. Had a fantastic buffet dinner with all sorts of breads, meats, rise, potatoes, fruits, salads and desserts. It was amazing!
We then heard from our tour hosts with Inspiration Cruises and Tours, as well as Chuck Swindoll and David Phelps (singer with Gaither). I lost it at that point as he sang How Great Thou Art. It was so moving to me.
Total on the tour:525 people. We are divided up into about 50 people on a bus and each bus has a Bible teacher, usually someone from Dallas Seminary., as well as a "shepherd" - someone from Insight for Living staff - and an Israeli guide.
On to Ceaseria (? Spelling) today.
Long but wonderful days!
Love Dad and Grandpa
No comments:
Post a Comment