Tourism Minister Stas Misezhnikov has extended a formal invitation to all 33 recently rescued Chilean miners and their spouses to be hosted for an all-expenses-paid trip to various Christian holy sites in Israel this Christmas.
"The bravery and strength of spirit of the rescued miners was an inspiration to people across the world," said Haim Gutin, Israel Commissioner for Tourism, North and South America.
"It would be an honor for us to have the miners visit Israel during a time of year when we will welcome thousands of Christian pilgrims from around the world."
Approximately 58% of the 2.7 million travelers who visited Israel in 2009 – Israel's second best year for tourism – were Christian.