Departures: Holy Land tours

THE newly opened border between Israel and Jordan has stimulated some new tours, using the Eilat-Aqaba crossing to combine trips to both countries. Voyages Jules Verne (071-723 5066) is offering a seven-night tour taking in Aqaba, Petra and Eilat for between pounds 330 and pounds 395, depending on departure date. Jasmin Tours (0628 531121) has a 'Lands of the Bible' tour taking in Petra, Masada and Jerusalem for pounds 669- pounds 748, which includes half-board accommodation and, if required, free connecting flights to Heathrow from Belfast, Edinburgh or Glasgow.