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Faith-Based
Journeys
 Many
of us today travel abroad for a spiritual experience—the opportunities
to visit ancient temples, cathedrals and other historic religious
sites introduced to us through our religious denomination or study.
Over the past few years, Americans have been seeking out international
vacations specifically designed to explore their religion and deepen
their faith.
Today, one-third of all international travelers are likely to take
a religious vacation in the future. For international leisure travelers,
one in ten have already been abroad on a faith-based vacation. For
faith-based travelers, more than 40 percent of all American international
leisure travelers have at least some desire to get in touch with
their religious heritage and deepen their spiritual faith while
traveling. Today, approximately 50 percent of all religious travelers
are Protestant. The Roman Catholic faith-based travelers represent
about one-fourth of the those who choose faith-based travel. Of
all religious travelers today, one-third are active in their church,
temple or synagogue.
Israel is the number one destination in the list of countries that
travelers have already visited on a faith-based journey, followed
by Italy and Greece . Israel is the most cited desirable destination
for faith-based travel. Italy is also a top contender of desirable
destinations, along with England.
 What
to expect on a
Faith-Based Journey
Faith-based
journeys are designed as a travel and faith experience – you
will learn more about the world in which you live and deepen your
faith. On a faith-based journed, you can expect several sightseeing
visits to spiritual sites, accompanied by expert commentary from
your Profesional Tour Manager or knowledgeable Local Guides and
Historians. You will also enjoy traditional sightseeing and cultural
exchanges with the locals.
In addition, you will also enjoy plenty of free time for exploration
on your own or choose to take an optional tour. Dining experiences
of the local culture may be included. There will be time for shopping.
Each day-by-day itinerary, as well as “Journey Highlights”
will describe what will be included so you will know exactly what
to expect each day of your tour.
Specific journey features will be included by denomination. For
example, on a faith-based journey for the Catholic denomination
it will not be unusual to find a priest among your fellow travelers.
Time will be scheduled for a short daily mass. Otherwise, your Tour
Manager will know what times Masses are held at the various churches
and shrines you’ll visit. Each journey will focus on experiences
that will deepen your faith no matter what denomination your roots
of spiritual growth are centered in.
You will find that the other travelers on your faith-based journey
will likely have similar spiritual interests. Traveling with these
like-minded companions will offer interesting conversations over
group meals, during sightseeing visits and while traveling together
by motorcoach or cruise ship. The fellowship and new friends you
will forge on a faith-based journey is one of the most important
highlights of participating in a faith-based journey.
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