Israel Energy Tour 2012 Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

General Questions:

Q: What are the dates for the event?

The event runs from Tuesday, January 31 through Monday, February 6, 2012.
The program will begin in Tzfat on January 31 at 4:00 pm.
The program will end on February 6 at 4:00 pm.

Q: What is the cancellation and refund policy?

No refunds will be given at any time. Please do not register unless you are certain you will be attending.

Q: How many participants are you expecting?

We are expecting approximately 600 total attendees.

Israel Specific:

Q: Is it safe to travel to and around Israel?

The security of our participants is of the utmost importance and all measures are taken to provide for the safety of all participants while on the program.

Q: What is the exchange rate? Will I be able to use my ATM card or credit cards?

Check the internet for daily exchange rates. Foreign currency may be exchanged at the airport or at any bank and in many hotels throughout Israel. Payment in foreign currency exempts tourists from paying Value Added Tax (VAT) on certain purchases in designated stores.

ATMs: Linked with major American systems, ATMs are prevalent throughout Israel. Major credit cards-American Express, Diners' Club, Visa and MasterCard/Access/Eurocard-are widely accepted throughout Israel. Holders of Visa or MasterCard/Access/Eurocard credit cards may withdraw funds at the foreign currency counters of affiliated banks or at certain ATMs. Make certain that you have your PIN number with you, and we suggest advising your bank that you will be traveling abroad.

Q: Are any vaccinations or immunizations required to travel to Israel?

There are no vaccinations or immunizations requirements for Israel.

Q: What will the weather be like?

Average temperature in February is:
Tel Aviv – 9-19˚ C or 48-66˚ F
Tzfat – 9-20˚ C or 49-67˚ F
Jerusalem – 7-14˚ C or 44-57˚ F

Q: Can I use my electrical appliances?

The electric current in Israel is 220 Volts AC, single phase, 50 Hertz. Most Israeli sockets are three-pronged, but many of them can accommodate other varieties. Most luxury hotels provide hair-dryers and all hotels have sockets for U.S. shavers. Most other appliances require a converter or transformer that can be purchased at any hardware store in Israel.

Computers and mobile phones usually DO NOT require a converter and using one can damage your equipment. You will need a plug adapter to use your chargers in Israel.

Q: What should I pack?

Dress is casual by day, but dressier wear may be necessary at some restaurants and night spots in the evening. Conservative dress is needed for religious sites. Men wear white to services, and women wear what they want.

Comfortable shoes are a must as we will do a lot of walking!
Winter weather in Israel varies from mild and sunny to cold and raining. We recommend that you prepare layers of clothing to accommodate all possibilities. We do recommend that you have a warm coat and rain gear (umbrella, water proof shoes and boots). Note that during the rainy season, access to the cemeteries can be muddy and you should have the appropriate shoes.

Q: Where can I get information on facilities and accessibility for the handicapped?

Contact Milbat, the Advisory Center for the Disabled at Sheba Medical Center in Tel Aviv
Tel: 011-972-3-530-3739
To borrow medical equipment or wheelchairs, call Yad Sarah organization in Jerusalem:
tel: 011-972-2- 624-4242

Fees/Payments:

Q: What is the cost for the event? For adults? For children?

Q: What are my payment options?

Payment must be made by credit card. If special arrangements must be made for a wire transfer, please contact the registration offices for details.

Q: Is there a specific date that I need to register by?

The last day to register is December 30, 2011.
It’s important to register early to ensure space is available. In addition, there is limited lodging space, so the sooner you register the better.

Events:

Q: Where will the event take place?

January 31 – February 2 Tzfat
February 2 – 6 Jerusalem

Q: Where will meals take place?

Breakfasts and most dinners will be served at the hotel you are staying in.
Most lunches will be on the road as part of our touring program.

Q: Which meals are included? Which meals will I be responsible for on my own?

All meals from dinner on January 31 through lunch on February 6 are included (6 breakfasts + 5 lunches + 6 dinners) except for Friday lunch which will be on your own in Jerusalem.
You will receive a list of recommended restaurants and eateries to sample during your free time.

Q: Will we have free time? If so, are there recommendations as to what to do/see?

Yes. Ask the concierge or the IGT tour operator representatives at your hotel.

Q: Is there a program for children offered?

Teen program – ages 13-18 years. There will not be a kid’s camp at any time.

Travel/Transportation:

Q: Are you offering group air reservations? If so, who do I contact?

Attendees are responsible for booking their own travel.

Q: What airport do I fly into?

Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv.

Q: How do I get from the airport to the hotel?

Arrival transfers to Tzfat will be provided from Ben Gurion Airport and The Kabbalah Centre in Tel Aviv on 31 January ONLY. You must sign up for these transfers in advance (no charge) and provide us with your flight details.
Departure transfers to Ben Gurion Airport will be provided on February 6 ONLY.
You must sign up for these transfers in advance (no charge) and provide us with your flight details.

If you plan to arrive on your own, you can get to Tzfat by rental car or taxi. Tzfat is approximately a 2 ½ hour drive from Ben Gurion Airport or Tel Aviv.

Q: What travel documents are required? For adults? For children?

American and Canadian citizens only need a valid passport to visit Israel. They don't need visas. Other nationals should contact the Israeli consulate in their area for more information.

Q: What is the mode of transportation for the trip?

Bus.

Lodging:

Q: What hotel will I be staying at in Tzfat?

We are using several hotels in Tzfat. You will be informed of the assigned hotel prior to arrival in Israel.

Q: What hotel will I be staying at in Jerusalem?

We are using two neighboring hotels in Jerusalem. You will be informed of the assigned hotel prior to arrival in Israel.

Q: Are the hotels handicapped accessible?

Yes. There are a limited number of handicapped rooms at each hotel and these must be booked in advance.

Q: What is the suggested capacity per room?

Two adults per room.
A limited number of single rooms are available at each hotel and will be allocated on a first come, first served basis.

Q: How are beds configured in the hotel rooms?

Bed types vary by hotel. Most have either one large sized bed for Double or Single occupancy, or 2 twin beds for sharing, depending on the hotel.

Q: Do the hotels have adjoining rooms?

Yes, there are a limited number of adjoining rooms. These have been set aside for families with small children. Adjoining rooms cannot be guaranteed.

Q: What are the check- in and checkout times?

Check-in 3 pm / Checkout 12pm
Note that if you are not checked out in time, the hotel will charge your card for an extra day. Please be sure to check out in a timely manner. The hotel will be happy to hold your luggage once you have checked out, and prior to your departure.

Roommate Pairing:

Q: I would like to pay a double room rate, but don’t know of anyone to room with. Will you pair me with someone?

We strongly suggest that you find someone from your Kabbalah Centre to room with at the event. However, if you are unable to, we can place you in a pool for roommate pairings. Roommates will be assigned on December 30. If you request a roommate who is not registered by December 30, we will automatically place you in the Roommate Pairings pool and pair you with another person. No changes may be made after December 30.

For more details, please email rachel.peckmann@kabbalah.com
or call 1 800 KABBALAH (1 800 522 2252)