We are thinking of traveling to Syria, Jordan and Israel in September. We do not want to go on an organized tour, but do not want to be totally on our own.

Can anyone recommend a tour operator that can arrange for a car and guide to show us around?

We are thinking of touring Syria, the ruins at Petra, and then crossing the border at Aqaba in order to go to Israel.

We would leave from JFK and fly to Damascus and then return from Tel Aviv to NY. We are going to try to use mileage.

Desert Horizons out of Amman can organize this tour - we were very happy with them and had a wonderful driver Bashar Herzalla

http://www.deserthorizon.net/tour_operator.html

Search for their name here - other favourable references.

I can only help you with Israel-
I know great tour operators, and would be happy to recommend some, though I do have to say not all parts of Israel needs a guide.
Yad Vashem (The holocaust museum), for example, provide guides in site for just a few dollars, so does other major sites. There are regions where a private guide would be amazing and extremely helpful- Old city in Jerusalem, The dead sea area and Golan heights, just to name a few. How many people are you going to be?
I know a great guide who takes up to 4 persons, and another just as good who can take up to 11 people.

Hi, My husband and I are going to Israel in September and would love the names of some great guides for Jerusalem and the Masad. Thanks so much for your advice.

You may be denied entry into Israel after visiting Syria. It would be best to consult the consulate closests to your home to find out how to avoid any problems at the border crossing from Jordan to Israel. You will also have to fly out of Jordan or hold a ticket that does not have Tel Aviv on it,so not to cause problems when you are in Syria.

We are just back from traveling in Syria and Jordan and can recommend Abdul Ibrahim who can be contacted at [email protected]. Great driver with perfect English and who is great company. We were with him for 20 days and he took care of us in every way. He will make the trip for you.

mollybee, Are you opposed to renting a car in Jordan? I found it very easy to drive there and it will offer you the flexibility to move at your own pace at a reasonable price. Maybe you want to stop at a local restaurant or a park or just take in a sunset alone ... these are some of the things I enjoy about travelling independently. I rented a car in Aqada and dropped it in Amman JD$30 per day. Check out my blog for what to expect in "The Kingdom Of Jordan".
[email protected]