Marilyn Foster: First superheroes originated in Israel

Growing up in a Judeo-Christian country, we all became familiar with the heroes of the Bible, whether found in the Old or New Testament. They were the superheroes before the comics created today’s superheroes. Think Noah, Abraham, Jacob, Mordecai, David, Daniel, Ruth and so many more. The story of the early biblical heroes are retold in Israel, and one need not be religious to enjoy and wonder at all the history and culture found just around every bend in this fascinating country.

We all became familiar with the Holy Land no matter what church we might have attended since Israel is home to sacred sites celebrated by the Jewish, Christian and Islamic faiths as well as some lesser known religions. Even those claiming to not embrace any religion became familiar with the happenings in the Holy Land since most of the stories centering around Hanukkah and Christmas celebrations originated in Israel.

Because Israel is so ancient and has been the home of so many ethnicities, we can all take away something from visiting there. The Chamber is planning a trip to this interesting land of contrasts leaving Nov. 6.

If it’s history you prefer, you’ll see Roman ruins in the Roman capital city of Caesarea before going on Acre, once occupied by the Crusaders. You’ll be able to float in the Dead Sea, the lowest place on earth, and stop by Cana, considered to be the site of the first miracle where Jesus turned water into wine. You’ll sail the Sea of Galilee and enjoy lunch at a traditional kibbutz.

Masada is one of the major highlights of this trip where you will ascend the ancient walls by cable car to Herod’s palaces. There’s a stop in Bethlehem to visit the Church of the Nativity before spending your last three days in Jerusalem where you will be taken to all the most famous sites, including the Wailing Wall where you can leave your personal message.

Israel is a safe country, and the food and accommodations are first rate. I loved every minute of my visit there. You don’t have to be religious to enjoy this awesome trip. Every site is unique. Your Collette Vacations tour guide will regale you with stories. Air from Reno, airport transfers, first-class lodging, 15 meals and entrance fees to the major sites are included.

You’ll feel as though you have stepped into the pages of the Bible as you relearn the famous and familiar stories. It’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Come hear more about this and other tours when the representative from Collette Vacations visits us at 2 p.m. Feb. 25. Must RSVP, please, to 775-882-1565.

We’ve had to reschedule the Mayflower Cruises and Tours seminar due to weather. That is now rescheduled to take place at noon Feb. 16 at the Chamber office. Please RSVP to 775-882-1565.

On another topic, I just returned from my 90th birthday trip to Vietnam and must tell you that I had a wonderful time and enjoyed my travel companions from Scotland, Canada and England. The Vietnamese were charming and do respect their elders. I spent my 90th birthday in Hanoi. See, you are never too old to travel and learn of new cultures and see new sites! I’m already planning my 2019 trips.

(Marilyn’s next trip is scheduled to visit Bluegrass Country in April).