DTBL! Pre-tour Classes - Added Benefits

Why are the Pre-Tour Classes Important?
(Especially for preparing for a tour of the Land - Israel)

I am always asked this question – and it is a good one.  If you've ever been to the Holy Land... you know why. Without preparing... one comes back "knowing what I don't know."

Throughout the years I have had glowing comments about DTBL's system of education and preparation for touring the Bible Lands. Even those in the travel industry have often mentioned the "stand-alone" educational portion - as being the "only ministry / company which substantually prepares the pilgrims to the Land!" [ Tour Industry: Specialist - Israel ]

Note: DTBL! Tours stand alone in quality too. Attention is paid to the small details...as well as "bridging the gap" between one's own environment any where in the world - and that of the Biblical frame-of-reference in the Land!It is meant to answer the "WHY" of things - before getting to the Land itself.

Answers to the Question: Why DTBL! Classes?

Though the classes are not mandatory - they are highly recommended and requested.  They are designed to benefit the traveler in the following ways:

• DTBL! Classes truly builds the framework for better comprehension of the Land (God's Visual Tool to understanding the Scriptures) with on-site applications!
  
  
• One gets much greater value from the tour:   More value from your life-investment; greater comprehension levels on site;  spiritual applications are made in the Land that would not click otherwise
   
• DTBL! Study Manual (with study links & pictures) provide the platform for classes and discussion. It is a larger treasure to help you link Scripture with the Land.
   
• Questions are answered about the tour process and sites – raising the comfort level for all
   
• Individuals in the group are on the same page... so to speak. When the scholar-guide begins his teaching on site, he will not have to spend extra time covering the basics of the Land - which were learned in the pre-tour classes.   (Examples would be: Geography, Culture,  History Timeline, Topography – with its elevations, wadis, moisture levels, soil composition etc)  When you hear it in the Land... it is like a cool breeze of understanding!
   
• Nuances of the Land and peoples are discussed – making everyone more comfortable knowing what to expect on tour
   
• A group begins to bond together during the pre-tour classes.  One travels as a cohesive group – rather than a group of strangers
   
• Group members from another area need not worry!  Class materials will be provided – and everyone will feel part of the group. There is interaction with each other once the classes start - even long distances.  It is a joy to watch tour members meet each other in person - because they know each other!   (Can not reveal all the fun!)
   
• Those who are not prepared still enjoy the tour, but unfortunately, they will sometimes experience a feeling of "glazing over" after a few days.   They often express regret not having learned a bit more before their journey

Note:  Nothing is mandated - no one is tested.  One will have the opportunity to learn as much or as little as they are led.  The materials provided simply lays a foundation for an optimum learning experience (and value) prior to the tour... and during the journey in the Land!)

DTBL! Class Schedule [ PDF ]

• September 2011 Tour (Kay Money: Host)
  

The intensive DTBL! Classes are always FREE for:

• DTBL! Tour Participants
• DTBL! Tour Alumni

FEES:  Those enjoying this comprehensive study, without tour involvement, will have a fee of $300. (ACSI - 2 CEUs are available)

NOTE: Alumni may purchase the updated DTBL! Manual at published cost of $100.

Testimony from the Tour Industry:

Why Classes? (Specialist's observation)
 

Kay, your DTBL! Pre-Tour Classes are essential.  The following is what I experienced on my first tour to Israel – without the benefit of proper preparation.  

Although I felt I was fairly well versed in the Bible, I was not prepared for all of the additional information I received – on geography and non-biblical history, relating to the time of the Bible.

I was overwhelmed within several days and stopped comprehending what was being said soon after that!  I was like a sponge that was full, and all of the information I tried to absorb just leaked out!!

You have something unique and valuable to share. We just have to find a way to let more people know about it!

~ Lindy Witman, MTS (Holy Land Tour Specialist)