Shalom! I am Jacob Kuchuk, an Israeli born Sabra from Sderot, a small town in the south . My family immigrated to Israel from the USSR in the early 70's where we became a part of the colorful Israeli melting pot. During my army service, I was fortunate to be given the post of guiding sargents and officers. I fell in love with this role of guiding ever since.
Education: BA degree Hebrew University Department of Geography, with a knowledgeable perspective of Israel, its history and its current geo-political situation. I am a licensed Tour Guide of the Israeli Ministry of Tourism, with additional training in archaeology, Christianity studies and architecture.
Passion: To make people fall in love with Israel and to make their journey in Israel a memorable experience. I love being a tour guide because of the close interaction with interesting people from all over the world. The various tours combine geography, biblical stories, cultural and current events infused with my passion for guiding and my strong love of Israel.
Why Me ? 💙Passionate 💙Knowledgeable 💙Flexible 💙Efficient with your time. 💙Popular licensed tour guide 💙I'll be your Guardian Angel
What is Yalla? Arabic word that has become the most widely used word in Israeli slang. It's usually used to encourage us :get up and go, However it can also mean: Yalla = lets go. Yalla = OK. Yalla = Bring it on. Yalla = There you go. Yalla = Your turn. Yalla = Speak with you later. Ya….alla = this is great . Yalla = hurry up. Yalla Yalla = Yeah, right! Yalla Yalla Yalla = we need to go right now!!
So now that everything is clear - Yalla, call me and schedule a date for your tour
Jacob
Thank you so much for making our first tour so memorable. We appreciate all of your insight & knowledge. We had a fantastic time, and hope our paths cross again. Anytime you are in New York area, please call. Warm regards
Barry & Jane
Jacob
TODA RABA for making history of Israel come alive & for sharing your passion for your beautiful country
Ruth NJ
Hi Yacov!
I simply can’t say enough of how great was our tour with you!
A tour guide like you that is not only extremely knowledgeable but also has such a passion for Israel was just wonderful.
Your knowledge and explanation about the biblical events made me understand my bible better
FRAN & GARY CA
Dear Jacob
We would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your guiding through a most meaningful excursion through Israel
We were constantly amazed at your scope of knowledge, not only about the history of Israel, but also about religion of the different faiths that identify this as the holy land.
We consider ourselves very fortunate to have met you and spend this time with you
Shalom
If you’re visiting Christian sites, bring a Bible. A water bottle, sunblock & a hat are recommended A passport is a must to cross the border to Bethlehem.
How should I dress for my tour?
Wear comfortable shoes . In Jerusalem’s Old City, dress modestly, Cover your knees and shoulders.
Can I design my personal itinerary?
Yes Of course.
I can Tailor make your personal tour.
Do I need to provide a down payment ?
NO.
Payment is made BEFORE the tour by bank transfer or Cash. USD$, Euro, or Israeli Shekel.
If you rather pay in cash, you can do it before the tour starts. Credit card payment ,5% surcharge will apply. Foreign checks aren't accepted .
Are you a licensed tour guide?
Yes I am. According to Israeli law you must go through a long training process in order to guide visitors in the beautiful holy land. My license number is 8927.
What can we do If it rains ?
It rains only less than 50 days a year almost all between December and April. Still- it might happen, there are solutions. Such as- Museums, markets, and of course- in Jerusalem underground city. Or you can simply bring an umbrella.
Do I have to pay for the guides accommodation?
Yes and no. For 1 day tours- no need!
Program of few days: No – if the over night is in Jerusalem or Tel-Aviv. Yes – if the over night is in the north, or in the south\ Eilat. .
Should I bring cash with me?
For most tourist it'll be better changing into shekels in Israel ( at the airport & hotels you'll get a bad rate) , There are many change points in the major cities and near tourist attractions. Though most places will accept credit cards, you'll still need cash for tips, taxis, and small perches which aren't in the tourist markets. I personally happy to receive Shekels US $, Euros or Pounds whatever is more convenient for you.