DENTAL TOURISM TO ISRAEL

Israel is a small country located in Southwest Asia, only 29,000 square kilometers in size, and yet it is a place of amazing variety and interest. Israel's location, bridging Africa, Asia and Europe, makes its geography unique, with desert in the south and snow-capped mountains in the north. Its temperate climates, vast array of beaches, rich history and culture, unique geography and religious significance attracts millions of visitors each year.

Jerusalem, "City of Gold", is one of the most extraordinary cities in the world. Established 3,000 years ago by King David, it is a place where old and new, holy and secular, beautiful nature and impressive architecture fuse together in a magical mix of smells, sounds and sights. Sacred to the world's three major religions, Jerusalem leaves its visitors captivated and inspired. As Israel's capital, it is also home to Israel's parliament, the president's residence and government offices.

Any visit to Israel must include a stop in Tel Aviv, a busy metropolis which offers travelers museums, fine dining, opera, theater and dance. Its location along the Mediterranean promises breathtaking beaches and views. Tel Aviv boasts an active nightlife and energetic ambiance and in 2003, the United Nations' Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization declared Tel Aviv-Jaffe as a World Cultural Heritage Site.

Continue south to Israel's Red Sea Riviera on the Gulf of Eilat, which is home to stunning coral reefs and exotic fish. Visitors can choose from all types of water sports, diving, swimming with the dolphins and camel tours. Breathtaking scenery of the magnificent Red Mountains and the crystal clear Red Sea make Eilat an unforgettable destination.

Christian Interest

Israel is home to a multitude of Christian holy sites and shrines. Take the Via Dolorosa passing the Stations of the Cross to the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, the ancient site of the crucifixion and burial of Jesus. Continue to Mount Zion to visit the Church of St. Peter in Gallicantu, the Room of the Last Supper and the Church of the Dormition.

The areas surrounding the Sea of Galilee are must see destinations for the Christian tourist, which include the Mount of Beatitudes, Capernaum, which is home to one of the earliest churches in the world, Bethsaida, home to Philip, Andrew and Peter. Continue to Nazareth, Jesus' childhood town, with the Basilica of the Annunciation, the Church of St. Joseph, Mary's Well and the reconstructed Nazareth Village.

Jewish Interest

Begin your trip in Jerusalem's Old City and walk the Ramparts, a walkway which offers panoramic views of the area. Continue towards the Western Wall, the direction in which Jews from all over the world focus their prayers. Other points of interest include the Western Wall Tunnels, the Southern Wall Excavations and the Davidson Center.

Jerusalem is also home to the Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial and the Israel Museum, which holds the Dead Sea Scrolls and many fascinating exhibits.

Tiberias and Safed, considered two of Israel's sacred cities are home to the burial sites of great rabbinical leaders and contain many interest points. Safed is the birthplace of Jewish Mysticism and the home of the Ari Hakadosh.