How does it feel to be walking on the same land where Jesus Christ also once walked on more than two millennia ago?
CBN News interviewed first-time tourists to Israel to find out their impression on whether Jesus' place of origin is still as holy as the Bible narrates, or if it has really turned into the violent nation that the media has been portraying it to be.
Craig Harris and his wife, Kristine, admitted that their plan to visit Israel for the first time raised alarm among some of their friends and loved ones, primarily due to the perceived security threats in the area.
"That was a very common comment – 'are you crazy,'" Kristine told CBN News reporter Chris Mitchell while in Israel. "And I said 'No, nothing was going to stop me.' People couldn't talk me out of it."
Craig said some people questioned their decision to choose Israel as a travel destination. "They said, 'Do you really want to do that? Is it safe?'" he said.
He, however, said their faith and excitement to see Jesus' land fuelled their determination to explore Israel, despite apprehensions from the people they know.
"You know, we just couldn't wait to see where Christ has walked. It was more than I expected. It was amazing," Craig said.
Tuvia Zaretsky, meanwhile, arrange a group tour of Israel, primarily to discover the culture and traditions of the country.
"You know, I told them I wanted to come over here and look at the world that's here and the people that are here, the places where the Bible events took place," Zaretsky also told CBN News. "And for them it has been an eye-opening experience. And it's in the context of Israel today."
Samuel Smadga, who has been leading tours of the place for 20 years now, meanwhile, highlighted how unique Israel is compared to more popular tourist destinations.
"Israel doesn't come in the category of tourist destination," Smadga told CBN News. "Israel is not the Bahamas. Israel is not even Paris. Israel is not even Rome. I believe Israel is the stage of your faith. And I believe coming to Israel will encourage you in your walking with the Lord."
Jerusalem Mayor Nir Barkat, meanwhile, sought to dispel the perception that his city and his country are not safe places to visit.
"We have the best police in the world," Barkat told CBN News. "We have the best security forces. And per capital, we're as safe as London when you really check the numbers.
"Actually, when I fly to America, I pray to come back home safe here to Jerusalem because the crime rates in America are six times more per capita than in Jerusalem," he added.
