pre-trip information

PRE-TRIP
INFORMATION
& TRAVEL
COMPANION
SUMMER 2010
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1
WELCOME
2
WHAT IS TAGLIT-BIRTHRIGHT ISRAEL?
6
ABOUT THIS JOURNEY
8
WHY ISRAEL?
12
WHERE WILL YOU BE TRAVELING?
24
WHAT TO EXPECT!
26
WHO ARE THE ISRAELIS?
30
LEARN MORE
44
SUGGESTED PACKING LIST
46
AFTER THE TRIP
48
NOTES
WELCOME
Thank you for registering for the Taglit-Birthright Israel gift! By
signing up for this season’s trips, you have taken the first steps
toward the journey of a lifetime. In the days or weeks ahead, you
will be contacted by the Trip Organizer you selected to confirm if
there is a spot available for you. Over the last few years the response
to Taglit-Birthright Israel registration has been overwhelming; we
make every effort to accommodate as many applicants as possible
each season and we hope you will be able to join us! Whether you
join us this season or in the future, please use this travel companion
booklet as a primer for your Israel trip.
Tens of thousands of other Jewish young adults just like yourself
from all over the world have been the recipients of the TaglitBirthright Israel gift since the launch in 2000. Taglit (Hebrew
for “discovery”)-Birthright Israel was founded as a gift from one
generation to the next. Taglit-Birthright Israel’s funding partners
believe that a trip to Israel is a vital part of the Jewish experience,
that strong connections between Israel and Diaspora communities
are critical and that meeting with Israelis and Jews from around the
world is a priceless experience.
Since the program began, the highest educational, security and
logistical standards have been implemented so that regardless of
which of the many trip options you sign up for, you will be a part of
the highest quality trip possible…for free! Please read this book to
learn more about the organization, the trips, some of the sites you
may encounter and a bit about Israel’s history. Also visit our extensive
website, www.birthrightisrael.com, and be in frequent contact with
your Trip Organizer as they will be very helpful in answering specific
questions about your acceptance, trip, dates and itinerary.
This trip to Israel is just one of many gifts that the Jewish community
has to offer. In the weeks and months ahead you will learn more
about the rich variety of programs that Taglit-Birthright Israel,
Birthright Israel NEXT, local Jewish Federations, organizations and
congregations offer to welcome you home upon your return from
Israel. We hope that your journey will last a lifetime.
WELCOME
1
Taglit-Birthright Israel provides the gift of first-time, peer group,
educational trips to Israel for Jewish young adults ages 18 to 26.
The trips are offered twice a year — in winter and summer — and
are operated by many different Trip Organizers, all of which are
well established and notable touring and educational organizations.
Taglit-Birthright Israel acts as an umbrella organization that
provides the gift of the trip, authorizes individual Trip Organizers
to run Taglit-Birthright Israel-approved programs and sets down the
guidelines, standards and security policies by which Trip Organizers
must operate.
ABOUT TAGLIT-BIRTHRIGHT ISRAEL
Taglit-Birthright Israel is a unique partnership between the people
of Israel through their government, local Jewish communities
around the world and leading Jewish philanthropists. TaglitBirthright Israel’s founders created this project to send thousands
of young Jewish adults from all over the world to Israel as a gift in
order to diminish the growing division between Israel and Jewish
communities around the world; to strengthen the sense of solidarity
between Israelis and Jewish communities around the world; and to
strengthen participants’ personal Jewish identity and connection to
the Jewish People.
Taglit-Birthright Israel partners believe that it is every Jewish person’s
birthright to visit Israel. To date, over 230,000 young adults from
52 countries around the world have traveled to Israel for the first
time on Taglit-Birthright Israel trips.
THE BIRTHRIGHT ISRAEL FOUNDATION
WHAT IS
TAGLIT-BIRTHRIGHT
ISRAEL?
WHAT IS TAGLIT-BIRTHRIGHT ISRAEL?
The Birthright Israel Foundation raises funds to support TaglitBirthright Israel trips. The Foundation’s long-term goal is to double
the annual number of participants traveling to Israel. To that end,
its dedicated professional staff and committed lay leadership
develop and implement fundraising initiatives to engage major
Jewish philanthropists, Jewish federations across North America,
and Taglit-Birthright Israel alumni and their families for the purpose
of building a broad, sustainable base of support.
WHAT IS TAGLIT-BIRTHRIGHT ISRAEL?
3
COMMUNITY PARTNERS
THE ROLE OF TAGLIT-BIRTHRIGHT ISRAEL
In North America, our community partners are the Jewish
federations found in each community. Jewish federations serve
as the central address for community needs and resources.
Federations build and strengthen Jewish community, reduce
Jewish poverty and hunger, rescue and resettle new immigrants,
and spur Jewish renaissance worldwide. You can learn more about
the federation system and find your local federation online at
www.jewishfederations.org. Keren Hayesod and the Jewish Agency for
Israel are our other community partners outside of North America.
Taglit-Birthright Israel funds the educational trips which are
operated by Trip Organizers (see below) and accredits the Trip
Organizers. Before the launch in 2000, Taglit-Birthright Israel
gathered educational, logistical and security experts to establish
high standards for trips to Israel, the first of their kind. Today, these
trips offer the best overall experience of any educational trips to
Israel as a result of constant oversight, quality control, evaluation
and modifications. Taglit-Birthright Israel remains responsible for
funding of the educational trips, setting educational and logistical
standards, branding and marketing, security, quality control, followup research and all Israel flights.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
GOVERNMENT
OF ISRAEL
TRIP
ORGANIZERS
PHILANTHROPISTS
TRIP
ORGANIZERS
TRIP
ORGANIZERS
JEWISH
COMMUNITIES
WORLDWIDE
TRIP
ORGANIZERS
This organizational chart represents a simplified explanation of our
structure. Read on for the details.
4
WHAT IS TAGLIT-BIRTHRIGHT ISRAEL?
THE ROLE OF TRIP ORGANIZERS
While the funding for the educational trips is provided by TaglitBirthright Israel, Trip Organizers are the entities which actually
plan and operate the ten-day trips. Trip Organizers represent wellestablished educational, religious or tourist organizations and
companies that are highly qualified to lead groups in Israel. They
are responsible for recruitment, staff training, insurance, staffing
and all land arrangements, including buses, hotels, attractions
and meals. All Trip Organizers must meet Taglit-Birthright Israel’s
rigorous standards in order to be eligible to offer trips. All Trip
Organizers — over fifteen operate each session — are subject
to unscheduled inspections, participant evaluations and on-site
monitoring. Those found to be in violation of Taglit-Birthright Israel
rules and regulations are banned from operating trips.
Regardless of which Trip Organizer you travel with to Israel, rest
assured that you will have an enjoyable educational experience
that you will never forget. A complete list of approved Trip
Organizers and their contact information can be found at
www.birthrightisrael.com.
WHAT IS TAGLIT-BIRTHRIGHT ISRAEL?
5
CONTEMPORARY ISRAEL
You will visit modern Israel, a contemporary state with people from
a variety of cultural ethnic and religious backgrounds. You will see
how a country combines a very old tradition with high tech, pubs,
universities, fashion, culture and military readiness.
THE NARRATIVE OF THE JEWISH PEOPLE
WHAT HAPPENS ON
THESE TEN DAYS?
Taglit-Birthright Israel trips are conducted
by several different Trip Organizers. Each
has been accredited by Taglit-Birthright
Israel and each has a unique approach
and perspective. At the same time, there
is a core program with several themes
that are common to all trips.
Your ten days will help you experience and learn about some of
the basic periods of Jewish history. In Israel you will literally walk in
the footsteps of the Bible: archeological sites, nature reserves and
desert and mountain scenes which serve as the backdrop for this
still unfolding historical drama.
VALUES OF THE JEWISH PEOPLE
Your ten days will include programming in which you will relate
to some key ideas and values that have been a part of Jewish life
throughout the ages. Tikkun Olam (fixing the world), Shalom (peace)
and Klal Yisrael (the unity of the Jewish people) are just some of the
topics you will discuss and experience.
WITH WHOM?
You will be traveling with peers from North America and other
countries. You will also have the opportunity to interact and
dialogue with Israeli peers and several will join you for part or all of
your trip. You will be guided by a team of highly skilled Israelis and
accompanied by a talented and committed North American staff.
DOING WHAT?
The program includes touring, hiking, group discussions, rappelling,
social events, camel and jeep rides, learning, parties, meeting
Israelis and even a little sleep. There is lots of learning but instead
of classrooms with professors; Israel is your classroom.
THE BOTTOM LINE
ABOUT THIS JOURNEY
ABOUT THIS JOURNEY
These are ten days that are like a lifetime. You will laugh, cry, see, think,
feel, question, wonder, dance, touch and taste. It’s a chance for you to
connect with yourself, your people, your history and your future.
ABOUT THIS JOURNEY
7
ROOTS
Why are so many people fascinated
with Israel? Why have Jews been so
obsessed with the place? Why would
philanthropists, the Government of Israel
and Jewish communities invest so much
money to enable you to visit the place?
For most of Jewish history the question
wasn’t even a question. Your greatgreat grandparents faced Jerusalem
three times a day in their daily prayers
and they prayed for the return to Zion
and rebuilding of the Temple. Your own
grandparents probably were touched
and ignited by the struggle to create the
new Jewish State in the years after the
Holocaust.
You are the first generation in 2,000
years to live in a world in which a thriving
Jewish state is a given fact. And for you
and your world the question “Why Israel? ”
is a real question—and one that deserves
some answers.
The origins of the Jewish people as a people are in the land called
Israel. The historical, cultural and religious roots of Jews are as the
“children of Israel” who lived in the Land of Israel (the word “Jew”
comes from the word “Judea,” the largest of the tribes of Israel in
biblical times). Everything that is at the core of the early history of
the Jews is linked to Israel. The Bible and its early heroes (patriarchs
and matriarchs, Moses, David and Solomon) are rooted in the Land
of Israel.
The great prophetic ideas such as justice, equality and peace, which
have shaped world history, were formulated in the Land of Israel.
The roots of the Jews as a historical people are in the soil of Israel
and our culture teaches us of the yearning to return to that land
when we were exiled from it.
THE BIBLE
Israel is the land of the Bible and as one scholar says, “The Bible is
the original super story!” It is a book that has shaped the art, music,
thought and behavior of millions of peoples and religions throughout
world history. Israel is the place where the Bible was born and in it
is told the saga of the Jewish people who lived there.
MEMORIES & DREAMS
Throughout history, Jews developed an ongoing and life-long love
affair with Israel. Amazingly, whether in Israel or not, Jews never
forgot the Land of Israel. They referred to it in their prayers, in their
weddings and even when building a new home. Jews continue to
face towards Jerusalem in their synagogues and have continued to
give money to the Jewish community in Israel throughout the ages.
It became part of the memory and dreams of Jews.
WHY ISRAEL?
WHY ISRAEL?
WHY ISRAEL?
9
THE PILLARS OF JUDAISM
SO, WHY ISRAEL?
Israel was turned into one of the key pillars of Judaism—along
with the God of Israel, the Torah of Israel and the People of Israel.
Israel was not seen as a replacement for Judaism but rather as an
integral part of it. The Jewish religion made Israel a religious idea
and collective vision and turned it into one of the cornerstones of
Jewish religious civilization.
•
•
•
•
•
JEWISH PRIDE & RENEWAL
In modern times Israel has become a remarkable statement about
the ability of the Jewish people to renew itself after the nightmare
of the Holocaust. Israel made Jews proud because it saved the lives
of Jews, renewed Jewish cultural creativity and study and spoke
in the name of Jewish values. Israel became a daily reminder that
Judaism as a religion is alive and well and that Jewish nationalism
and culture are equally important in the definition of the “New Jew.”
Israel represents the ideological revolution in which Jews became
the “subjects” of history rather than the “objects.” Jewish national
pride has been inspired by the actions of farmers and soldiers, hightech wizards and social reformers, scientists and Jewish scholars,
who have labored to create a just and healthier society.
THE OLD & THE NEW
Modern Israel is striking proof that a very old religion can survive
in a very modern world. Israel is the Western Wall of old — and art
galleries and coffee houses of today. It is the holiness of Shabbat
in Jerusalem — and the beat of Saturday night in Tel Aviv. It is
archaeology of the past — and high tech and business of the future.
Israel shows that Judaism can be old and new at the same time.
ABOUT JEWS
Israel is about Jews. It is about saving Jews; it is about Jews being
able to live regular lives. It is about Jews learning how to live with
each other. It’s about a Jewish state that sometimes makes mistakes
and is not perfect, but that still strives for social justice and protects
democratic values. Ultimately, maybe it’s not philosophy, theology
or history — it’s about real live people who are our brothers, sisters,
cousins, aunts, uncles and family.
10
WHY ISRAEL?
It’s a central part of Jewish history, culture and religion.
It’s part of our family.
It’s part of the general culture in which we live.
It’s a beacon of Jewish pride and creativity.
These ten days are about your own very personal conversation
with this most ancient land and most modern state.
IS IT SAFE TO TRAVEL TO ISRAEL?
We are constantly reviewing
all security measures and will
implement the most stringent
security measures throughout
your trip to ensure that we
provide a comprehensive safety
umbrella.
These
precautions
include
careful planning of each group’s
itineraries on a daily basis. Our
tours do not travel to or through
areas of the West Bank, Gaza or
East Jerusalem, other than the
Jewish Quarter of the Old City.
Throughout each day, itineraries
are cleared through the official
government authorities who
also review all educational field
trips for Israeli schools and
educational institutions. A GPS
(Global Positioning System) is
carried by each group so that
authorities are aware of each
group’s location at all times.
A group’s itinerary will be
changed immediately to reflect
any heightened risk or security
concerns.
A safety and security orientation
is held for every group upon
arrival in Israel, and your
Trip Organizers will brief
you regularly of the security
arrangements for the day. The
orientation and briefings will
include guidelines for free time
and general travel safety. Free
time will be supervised and in
specified locations as security
considerations warrant.
The trips do not use public
transportation and you are
advised to avoid the use of
public transportation at all
times. The tour bus companies
and drivers we use are subject to
Taglit-Birthright Israel approval,
and drivers are instructed to
never leave buses unlocked
or unattended. In addition, at
least one Israeli security escort
accompanies every group.
WHY ISRAEL?
11
STUDY THE MAP OF ISRAEL
In a country the size of the state of New Jersey, there is an
incredible variety of terrain, flora and fauna and cultural diversity.
The varied geography of Israel includes physical as well as human,
cultural, political and religious dimensions. Learning about the
“Land of Israel” (Eretz Yisrael) and walking through it are significant
parts of the Taglit-Birthright Israel experience!
To see how Israel’s borders have evolved over the last 62 years,
turn to page 36 of this book. And to view additional maps, sample
itineraries, photos and a virtual tour, including detailed descriptions,
visit our website, www.birthrightisrael.com.
WHERE WILL YOU
BE TRAVELING?
WHERE WILL YOU BE TRAVELING?
The following is an outline of sites in Israel, not all of which you will
visit. However, most groups do visit many of the sites in what is a
very short amount of time. You’ll just have to make a list of things
to do and places to visit on your next trip!
WHERE WILL YOU BE TRAVELING?
13
SITES & SIGHTS
Jerusalem
Jerusalem, a city holy to Jews, Christians and Muslims, as well as
to Arab and Israeli alike, has witnessed 3,000 years of religious
and national conflict. Since 1967, the reunification of the city and
renaissance by the State of Israel have created new realities that
have yet to be finalized, as political conflicts endure.
A short stroll through Jerusalem’s streets is a trip through history
and the eternal connection of the Jewish People to its sacred sites.
The Western Wall, the southern wall excavations, the Jewish Quarter
and the modern City reflect some of the diversity of this complex
kaleidoscope of culture and history. Within the walls of the Old City
are also located the Dome of the Rock and the Al-Aksa Mosque,
holy to Islam, along with the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, the site
of the burial of Jesus, holy to Christianity.
The Old City
The Old City is divided into four historic areas: the Jewish Quarter, the
Moslem Quarter, the Christian Quarter and the Armenian Quarter.
THE WESTERN WALL: Holiest of all Jewish sites, it is a remnant of
the Temple Mount complex and has been a focal point of Jewish
yearning and prayer since the destruction of the Second Temple
on the 9th day of the Hebrew month Av, 2,000 years ago. History,
continuity, sacrifice and the centrality of Jerusalem to the Jewish
people are etched in the ancient stones of the Wall and are reflected
in the thousands of notes tucked into the crevices between them.
JEWISH QUARTER: Rebuilt and excavated since 1967, fascinating
remains of the 2,000 year-old Jewish community have been uncovered
in numerous archaeological sites. The Herodian Mansions reflect
the wealth and status of the Priestly class serving in the ancient
Second Temple but serve as the backdrop for the tensions of a
divided Jewish society on the verge of revolt and destruction.
THE CARDO: Ancient Jerusalem’s “downtown” and main thoroughfare
in the sixth century. Excavations have revealed a Byzantine street,
Crusader shops and the remnants of a broad outer defense wall
from the Israelite period, 2,700 years ago.
14
WHERE WILL YOU BE TRAVELING?
WHERE WILL YOU BE TRAVELING?
The New City
MOUNT SCOPUS: Superb panoramic views of the city, the Temple
Mount and the Judean Desert looking toward Jordan can be enjoyed
here. It is the site of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, founded
in 1925, closed during the War of Independence and reopened
following the reunification of Jerusalem in 1967.
THE MOUNT OF OLIVES: On it lies the most important Jewish
cemetery in the world; it is here, the tradition relates, that the
Messiah will pass upon arrival to Jerusalem and resurrect the dead.
Christian churches have been built on the hill and recount the final
days of Jesus in Jerusalem.
THE KNESSET: Israel’s Parliament building reflects the unique
combination of old and new, unique and mundane, Jewish and
Israeli in the modern nation state of Israel. Jewish architectural
themes and artwork grace the building in which the mechanism of
governing the Jewish State is located.
ISRAEL MUSEUM: Israel’s central museum comprises modern,
European, Israeli and international exhibits of art and includes
archaeological, Judaic and ethnographic displays. The Shrine of
the Book display houses the Dead Sea Scrolls, which provide insight
into the textual development of the Bible
MT. HERZL: The burial place of Theodor Herzl (1860-1904), the
journalist and visionary who helped inspire the Zionist movement
and organized the First Zionist Congress in Basel, Switzerland, in
1897. Former Prime Ministers Golda Meir and Yitzhak Rabin are
buried here as well as hundreds of soldiers.
YAD VASHEM: Israel’s Holocaust Memorial is located on Memorial
Mountain adjacent to Mt. Herzl. Unique exhibits in addition to the
Historical Museum include the Children’s Memorial, the Valley of the
Communities and the Avenue of the Righteous Gentiles. In addition,
research, educational activities and teacher training are undertaken
here.
WHERE WILL YOU BE TRAVELING?
WHERE WILL YOU BE TRAVELING?
17
Galilee
Pastoral green valleys and mountains characterize Israel’s northern
region. Kibbutzim and Moshavim — agricultural settlements — dot
the biblical landscape of the Galilee. These communities embody
the pioneering spirit of the early waves of immigration and the
values of the collective. The human tapestry includes numerous
Arab Israeli villages and Christian populations near sites holy to
Christianity. The border with Lebanon and sites along the Galilee
“Panhandle” (a.k.a. “The Finger of the Galilee”) provides the backdrop
for discussion of Israel’s defense needs and dilemmas.
SAFED (TZFAT): Perched atop the Galilee mountains, Safed is a holy
city associated with ancient Jewish Mysticism — Kabbalah — and
the 16th century renaissance of the Jewish community. The Ari,
Joseph Caro and Abuhav synagogues of the Jewish quarter provide
the backdrop for deliberation about identity and spirituality.
SEA OF GALILEE: The Sea of Galilee, a fresh water lake known as the
Kinneret in Hebrew, serves as the source of 30% of the country’s
drinking water. In this region pioneers established the first
kibbutz, organized the first defense organization and developed
the ideological foundation of the new Jewish society evolving in the
Land of Israel.
JORDAN RIVER: This famous biblical waterway descending from the
Dan, Banias and Hazbani Springs, separates Israel from Jordan and
connects the Kinneret with the Dead Sea. In spring and summer,
kayaking and canoeing are common.
Golan Heights
A high volcanic plateau tucked into the northern corner of Israel,
bordering Syria, Lebanon and Jordan. Considered strategically
essential to Israel by many citizens, previous governments — left
and right — nonetheless placed this land area on the negotiating
table with Syria in an effort to reach a peace agreement. Beautiful
rivers and waterfalls cross the Golan, spilling their water into the
Kinneret. In recent years it has become the source of new Israeli
vineyards whose wines have claimed international attention.
18
WHERE WILL YOU BE TRAVELING?
WHERE WILL YOU BE TRAVELING?
Tel Aviv & The Mediterranean Coast
Israel’s Mediterranean coastline is dotted with perfectly planned
resort towns, old and new, and well-preserved archaeological sites
that are cherished and visited frequently by tourists and Israelis
alike. Some of the cities on the shore include Ashdod, Ashkelon,
Haifa, Caesarea, Netanya and Herzliya.
TEL AVIV: Established in 1909, the Tel Aviv metropolitan area
is now a bustling modern city that serves as Israel’s center of
entertainment, culture, big business and international trade.
The “City that Never Stops” reflects the modern trends in the
Zionist movement rushing to be Western and in tune with other
Mediterranean cosmopolitan centers. In Tel Aviv one can celebrate
the creativity of new technologies, popular culture, free enterprise
and freedom of expression.
JAFFA: Old Jaffa’s cobblestone paths and winding alleys twist through
the massive stone fortifications that surround the city. The colorful
port is alive with restaurants and nightclubs while the nearby artist
colony offers art galleries and high-quality craft shops. Visitors
can view Tel Aviv’s new coastline from Jaffa and recall its humble
origins in this ancient port.
The Dead Sea
The lowest point on the earth, famous for its curative powers, the
Dead Sea is the saltiest and most mineral-laden body of water in the
world. Visitors can float in its waters, cover themselves in the mud
from the salty shore and relax in one of the numerous health spas
and hotels in the Dead Sea area.
EIN GEDI: This desert oasis is a nature reserve complete with
cascading waterfalls, small pools for swimming and flora and fauna
unique to the Judean Desert region. One can view the ibex (a desert
mountain goat) in its natural habitat and enjoy the challenge of a
short or long desert hike.
WHERE WILL YOU BE TRAVELING?
WHERE WILL YOU BE TRAVELING?
21
MASADA: This ancient Roman fortress is synonymous with the
Jewish resistance to Rome in the Great Revolt (66-73 CE). Extensive
excavations have revealed the splendor of a Herodian palace as
well as the modesty of the Zealot presence during that revolt. The
story of the Zealots on this mountaintop has endured — although
new interpretations have been presented as Israeli historiography
undergoes revisions — for it is here that according to the Josephus
account they committed mass suicide rather than go as slaves to
the Romans.
The Negev
This southern region accounts for more than 60% of Israel’s
landmass, yet less than 3% of the total population. The vast landscape
of mountains, canyons, craters and rocky terrain includes Biblical
archaeological sites and numerous opportunities for off-the-beatentrack hiking and exploration. Trekking through the Negev desert
provides an escape from modernity and a flashback to the Jewish
people’s wandering years.
BEERSHEBA: The capital of the Negev and Israel’s fourth largest
city. The Patriarch Abraham signed a biblical pact here and the
archaeological site at Tel Sheva has revealed a longstanding Jewish
presence in the region.
MITZPEH RAMON AND THE RAMON CRATER: Mitzpeh Ramon is
located alongside one of the world’s unique geological formations:
the Ramon Crater. The Ramon Crater is 40 km. long and 2-10 km.
wide, shaped like an elongated heart. It is a part of the Ramon Nature
reserve that includes also the surrounding Negev Mountains.
Eilat & The South
Eilat hugs a slope that leads to the Red Sea. Hotels are clustered
around the lagoon, marina and main beaches and is a popular
destination for Israelis on vacation. To the south is the port and
Coral Beach, with its underwater observatory, colorful shore and
more hotels. The observatory and coral reefs attract scuba divers
from around the world. Eilat is the center of the “Red Sea Riviera,” a
tourist promenade designed to link Jordan, Israel and Egypt. This
Israeli resort is also the site of the annual Eilat Jazz Festival.
22
WHERE WILL YOU BE TRAVELING?
WHERE WILL YOU BE TRAVELING?
Traveling in Israel may have all the comforts of a Western country
including a modern transportation infrastructure, internet cafes,
ATM machines, luxury accommodations and fine cuisine, but there
are differences that make being in Israel an interesting cultural
lesson as well!
Israelis are not known to be
Jews are not the only visitors
reserved or shy people; honking
to Israel. Religious Christians
car horns, public arguments and
and Muslims, as well as history
loud cell phone conversations
buffs from all over the world
are to be expected!
are frequent sights throughout
the country!
Israelis’ religiosity are often
entwined in their political views as
A reflection of the diverse
well; many men display this with
population, most signs you
their choice of head coverings:
see will be in Hebrew, English,
black hats for the ultra-Orthodox;
Russian and Arabic; and many
knitted kippot for the modern
Israelis will speak all of these!
Orthodox; a folded kippah in
the pocket for the liberal; and a
Israeli Jews come in different
novelty (Yankees, etc.) kippah for
shapes, sizes, skin color and
the secular!
speak different languages since
they come from all corners of
Kosher restaurants and products
the globe, including Africa,
are the norm, rather than the
Asia, Europe and the Americas!
exception!
WHAT TO EXPECT!
WHAT TO EXPECT!
You may notice that shabbat
(Friday sundown until Saturday
sundown) is a real day of rest
in most of Israel, shops will
close and mass transportation
is unavailable…but Sunday is a
full working day!
Armed soldiers are found
throughout the country, even
on buses, in the market or on
the street! Since most Israelis
are trained in the Army, this is
not as alarming to Israelis as it
can be to visitors!
It is a tradition for Jews who
travel to Israel to bring notes
and charity (tzedakah) from
family and friends to the
Western Wall (kotel), the holiest
site in Judaism.
Nearly everyone you meet will
be Jewish, including the bus
driver, tour guides, waiters,
soldiers, medics and young
adults...all the night clubs are
‘Jewish singles scenes!’
WHAT TO EXPECT!
25
ISRAELIS are a complicated people from diverse backgrounds
with conflicting views about their personal, religious and political
identities and ideologies. Your trip will provide you with an
opportunity—both formally and informally—to meet the “locals”
and interact with them. Here are some thoughts and insights into
“THE ISRAELIS.”
Israel, like most of the Middle East, is a rare cultural hybrid, caught
halfway between East and West. You can sit in a super-mod, Yuppiefilled café and hear Middle Eastern music; you can easily find a
kosher Burger King right next door to a falafel stand. In Israel, this
kind of cultural mix-n-match is just part of daily life.
Israelis are something of a hybrid as well: Jews and non-Jews;
Western and Eastern origins; old and new immigrants; secular
lifestyles and varying degrees of religious observance; urban and
rural existence; a high-tech economy and ancient traditions. In a
country just over 60 years old, the definition of “Israeli culture” is
still up for discussion.
MIFGASH
Every trip includes a structured mifgash (encounter) with your Israeli
peers, most of whom are soldiers and/or students. This will give
you an opportunity to meet, travel and live with Israelis who are
eager to learn about you. Several Israeli mifgash participants will
join your group for a minimum of five days and a maximum of ten
days, so be sure to make the most of your time together!
THE SABRA OF THE NEW MILLENNIUM
The Israeli character has been shaped by a unique set of ideas,
events and influences. From the Middle Eastern climate to the ArabIsraeli conflict, from agriculture to the military, from the emotional
legacy of the Holocaust to the rise of post-Zionism, there are both
contextual and internal forces that make Israelis who they are.
WHO ARE THE ISRAELIS?
WHO ARE THE ISRAELIS?
The image of the “Sabra,” or native-born Israeli — a cactus fruit
that’s prickly on the outside and sweet on the inside — has evolved
a great deal since the early days of statehood. Still, much of that
tough-yet-sensitive character remains today.
WHO ARE THE ISRAELIS?
27
Judaism can be a link that brings together Israeli and Diaspora Jews.
Ironically, though, the meaning of “being Jewish” is very different —
sometimes to extremes — to Jews living in and outside of Israel.
JEWISH PRIDE & RENEWAL
FAST FACTS ABOUT YOUNG ISRAELIS
• After their army service, many Israelis go on a long backpacking
trip (from a few months to a year or more), usually to the Far East,
Australia, Latin America or Africa.
In Israel, most of the population defines itself as “secular” and the
great majority do not observe strict religious rituals although several
Jewish traditions and holidays are observed. Across the spectrum
are “religious,” or strictly observant Jews (what North Americans call
Orthodox); in between are “traditional” or “masorti” Jews who observe
mostly family-oriented rituals and holiday celebrations. Most Israelis
observe basic Jewish practices, including Passover Seder, Fasting on
Yom Kippur, Bar Mitzvah and the celebration of Chanukah.
• Most Israeli students begin university at age 22, after serving in
the army and traveling. Many Israelis get married while in school
for their undergraduate degrees.
Unlike in the United States and Canada, where Reform and Conservative
Jews are a majority, non-Orthodox movements are a small minority
in Israel. Israel’s all-Orthodox, government-sponsored Rabbinate
presides over all official life cycle rituals in Israel (circumcision [brit
milah], marriage, divorce, burial) as well as all conversions.
• Most Israeli students work their way through university, many of
them holding full-time jobs while studying full-time.
• Israeli universities require registration to a specific department —
undergraduates have to choose their major before they apply!
• The most popular university departments in Israel are business
management and communications.
• Israeli university students can lower their tuition 45% by joining
Perach (Flower), a tutoring/mentoring project which pairs students
with kids in need of academic help or just an older role model.
A small but growing Jewish “renaissance” is taking place in Israel as
secular and religious Jews search for non-Orthodox alternatives to
study, worship, holiday celebrations and lifestyle.
THE MILITARY EXPERIENCE IN ISRAEL
Army service is one of the most important aspects of Israeli life.
Awareness of the army begins early, since all children have relatives in
“the service.” Later on, Israeli teens begin to plan where they want to
serve, the experience they want to have and where it might lead them (a
strong military career is often a key to business and political success).
Young men ages 18 and older are required to serve three years,
and young women 20 months. Ultra Orthodox Yeshiva students are
exempt, and Orthodox females can opt not to serve. Still, the vast
majority of Israeli youth join the armed forces, and many volunteer
for elite combat units. That makes the military a unique melting pot
for Israelis from all backgrounds.
To understand the Israeli mindset, culture, humor, slang or lifestyle
one must be familiar with the military experience.
28
WHO ARE THE ISRAELIS?
WHO ARE THE ISRAELIS?
29
DID YOU KNOW?
Although it has only been in existence for 61 (relatively) short
years, the State of Israel has already compiled an impressive list of
accomplishments in fields ranging from technology to education
to athletics. The following is but a small sample of what Israel has
done in the last six-plus decades!
• Israel has the highest number • Relative to its population,
of companies traded on Wall
Israel is the largest immigrantStreet (after the U.S. and
absorbing nation on earth.
Canada).
• Israel exports more than 1.5
• The glue on the back of Israeli
billion flowers annually to the
stamps is kosher.
US and Europe.
• Israel has the highest ratio of • The two most common family
university degrees per capita
names in Israel are Cohen and
in the world.
Levi.
For more facts, check out the “Go Learn” section of birthrightisrael.
com! Facts and figures courtesy of the Israel Ministry of Foreign
Affairs and Israel21c.
SUGGESTED READING
These are some great books that will prep you for a trip to Israel:
Recent works on Israel
THE CASE FOR ISRAEL & THE CASE FOR PEACE, Alan Dershowitz —
The Harvard Law School professor argues passionately in these two
short but potent works.
STILL LIFE WITH BOMBERS: ISRAEL IN THE AGE OF TERRORISM,
David Horovitz — A veteran reporter reflects personally on life in
Jerusalem during the wave of bombings that marked the beginning
of the Second Intifada.
LEARN MORE
LEARN MORE
COMING TOGETHER, COMING APART, Daniel Gordis — After moving
his family from Los Angeles, a father reflects on the joys and
struggles of life in Israel.
LEARN MORE
31
Classic novels about Israel
EXODUS, Leon Uris — The classic historical novel about the heroic
founding of the state.
O JERUSALEM, Larry Collins and Dominique Lapierre — A compelling
account of the War of Independence and the battles for Jerusalem
and Jewish statehood.
THE SOURCE, James Michener — This classic novel follows the
sweep of Jewish and Israeli history through the various layers of an
archeological dig.
Non-fiction by Israelis
MY LIFE, Golda Meir — An inspiring autobiography of a woman
Zionist, pioneer, politician and prime minister.
IN THE NAME OF SORROW AND HOPE, Noa Ben Artzi Pelosoff —
Yitzhak Rabin’s granddaughter writes about her grandfather’s life
and dreams for peace.
WARRIOR, Ariel Sharon — An account of Israel’s battles through the
eyes of the military commander who became Prime Minister.
Other ideas
WALKING THE BIBLE, Bruce Feiler — The best-seller places Israel in
the context of the ancient world that birthed the Jewish people.
NIMROD FLIP-OUT, Etgar Keret — A collection of twisted stories by
a young Israeli novelist.
For something a little different...
WHAT ISRAEL MEANS TO ME, edited by Alan Dershowitz — This
book is 80 very short pieces from celebrities, politicians, scholars,
and others that reflect on Israel. It is politically diverse, includes
Jews and people from other religious traditions, and will give you
plenty to chew on.
32
LEARN MORE
TRAVEL HEBREW
Hello/Goodbye/Peace
Good morning
Good evening
Good night
See you later
Yes
No
Okay
Please/You’re welcome
Thanks (very much)
Excuse me/Sorry!
How are you?
What time is it?
What’s this?
Where?
When?
How much is this?
Where are the restrooms?
Pleased to meet you
I understand
Bus
Restaurant
Change
Coffeehouse
Anyone speak English?
I’m with the Taglit group
What is your name?
How do you say that in English?
I love you
shalom
boker tov
erev tov
lyla tov
l’hitra’ot
ken
lo
b’seder
b’vakashah
todah (rabah)   
slicha!
ma shlomcha? (m)
ma shlomech? (f)
ma hasha’ah?
ma zeh?
eyfo?
matai?
kama ze oleh?
eyfo ha sherutim?
na’im meod
havanti
otoboos
mis-adeh
odef
beit kafeh
mishehu po medaber anglit?
ani im k’vutzat tagleet
ech korim lach (f) [lecha-m]?
ech omrim b’anglit?
ani ohev otakh (to f)
ani ohevet otkha (to m)
LEARN MORE
33
TIMELINE OF ISRAEL’S HISTORY
B.C.E.
(BEFORE the COMMON ERA)
1004
960
922
586
538-515
515
King David establishes
Jerusalem as the
capital of the Kingdom
of Israel
King Solomon (David’s son)
builds the First Temple as
the religious and spiritual
center of the Jewish People
Kingdom divides between
North (Israel) and South
(Judea) — Jerusalem is
capital of Judea
Nebuchadnezzer, King of
Babylon conquers Jerusalem
and destroys the first
temple, Jews exiled to
Babylon
Jews return to Eretz (the
land of) Israel from Babylon
Ezra & Nechemia
lead the restoration
of Jerusalem and
the Second Temple
350
332
313
170
167-164
61
37
Jerusalem
captured by
Persians
Alexander the Great
(Greece) conquers
Jerusalem
Ptolemy I
captures
Jerusalem
Jerusalem conquered
by Antiochus Epiphanes
(Seleucids of Syria)
Maccabean revolts against
Hellenistic domination; Jerusalem
restored to Jewish autonomy under
Hasmonean (Maccabean) Empire
Roman invasion led
by Pompei
King Herod appointed
as ruler of Judah by
the Romans, restores
the Temple
C.E.
(COMMON ERA)
34
66-73
70
132-135
324
614-638
1099
1187
1260
1516-17
1535-38
First Jewish
Revolt
against
Rome
Jerusalem &
the Second
Temple
destroyed by
the Romans
Second Jewish
Revolt led by Bar
Kochba, Jews
slaughtered, exiled
from the city
Byzantine
rule
Jerusalem falls
to the Persians
(614), Byzantines
(629) & Arab
Muslims (638)
First Crusaders
capture
Jerusalem
Saladin
captures
Jerusalem
Mamelukes rule
Jerusalem
Turkish
Ottoman
Empire (Sultan
Salim) conquers
Jerusalem
Suleiman
the
Magnificent
rebuilds city
walls
1858-1860
1870
1909
1917
Nov 24, 1947
May 1948
1949
Mishkenot
Sha’ananim, 1st
Jewish settlement
outside Old City,
is built
Jerusalem’s
population:
Y 11,000;
 6,500;
 4,500
Tel Aviv
founded
north of
Jaffa
British conquer
Jerusalem;
British
Mandate
period begins
UN proposal
calls for the
establishment of
a Jewish and an
Arab state
British Mandate ends (5/14); State
of Israel proclaimed (5/14); Israel
invaded by 5 Arab countries, War of
Independence begins (5/15); Israel
Defense Forces formed
Armistice agreed to with Egypt (2/9),
Lebanon (5/23), Jordan (4/3) & Syria (6/20);
First Knesset elected; Israel admitted to
UN as 59th member; Jerusalem proclaimed
capital of Israel
1948-52
1967
1967-70
1973
1978
1979
1981
1982
Mass wave of
immigration
from Europe and
Arab countries
Six-Day War; Jerusalem
reunified under Israeli
control with free
access to holy sites of
all religions
War of Attrition
Yom Kippur War
Camp David
accords signed;
contain basis for
settlement of ArabIsrael conflict
IsraelEgypt
Peace
Treaty
signed
Iraq’s nuclear
reactor destroyed
by Israeli Air Force,
led by young IAF
pilot Ilan Ramon
Israel’s withdrawl from
Sinai completed; Operation
Peace for Galilee launched
by Israel to end PLO attacks
from Lebanon
1985
1987
1988
1989
1991
1992
Free trade zone
agreement
signed with
United States
First Palestinian
uprising
(intifada) begins
Space satellite,
Ofek I, launched
Four-point peace
initiative proposed
by Israel; mass
immigration of Soviet
Jews begins
Iraq attacks Israel with ground-to-ground
missiles during Gulf War; Middle East
peace conference convenes in Madrid;
multilateral talks follow to promote
peace and address regional concerns
Diplomatic relations established with
China and India; Yitzhak Rabin elected
Prime Minister; 25th Anniversary of
reunification; Jerusalem’s population:
Y 392,000;  136,200;  15,000
1993
1994
1995
1996
2000
2003
2005
2009
PLO and
Israel
mutually
recognize
each other
Peace with Jordan; Oslo
Accords implementation
begins; Israel begins
withdrawal from the
administered territories
Yitzhak Rabin
assassinated by
an Israeli student
at a peace rally
in Tel Aviv
3000 years since
the establishment
of Jerusalem as the
capital city
Second
intifada
begins
Col. Ilan Ramon becomes first
Israeli astronaut; the Columbia
Space Shuttle breaks up on reentry over the Southern United
States, killing all aboard
Israel disengages
from settlements
in the Gaza Strip
Benjamin
Netanyahu
becomes Prime
Minister for the
2nd time
LEARN MORE
LEARN MORE
35
62 YEARS OF ISRAEL’S BORDERS
1947
UN PARTITION PLAN
1949
ARMISTICE LINES
1967
SIX DAY WAR BORDERS
1979
ISRAEL-EGYPT TREATY
On
November
29,
1947,
Resolution 181 was approved
by the General Assembly of the
United Nations, partitioning the
former British Mandate area into
a Jewish and Arab state. In this
plan, Jerusalem was to become
an international city, while the
Negev, coastal strip and eastern
Galilee panhandle were to be
part of a Jewish state. Despite
the objective limitations of such
a division of land, the Jewish
population accepted the plan,
while the Arabs rejected it.
Following the end of the War of
Independence in 1949, Israel
conducted armistice negotiations
with its Arab neighbors under
the auspices of the U.N. The
agreements signed with Lebanon,
Egypt, Transjordan (later Jordan)
and Syria set the following terms:
Israel retained the Negev desert
and Egypt retained control of
the Gaza Strip. Jordan controlled
the West Bank and the eastern
half of Jerusalem. Borders with
Lebanon and Syria were based
on internationally recognized
frontiers.
Following increased tensions
and threats of war on the part
of Israel’s Arab neighbors, on
June 5th, 1967, Israel launched a
preemptive strike against Egypt,
Syria and Jordan. Following six
days of fighting Israel captured
the Sinai Peninsula, the Gaza
Strip, the Golan Heights and
the West Bank, including the
eastern half of Jerusalem.
In 1979 Israel and Egypt signed
an historic peace accord at the
end of negotiations begun at
Camp David in 1978. The 1977
visit of Anwar Sadat to Jerusalem
paved the way for the process,
which ended the state of war
between the two countries.
Israeli forces withdrew from
the Sinai Peninsula in two
stages and by April 1982 the
entire Sinai was under Egyptian
sovereignty.
36 LEARN MORE
The cease fire lines left these
areas under Israeli control, and
would remain Israel’s borders
until the Yom Kippur War of
1973.
For a current map of Israel, turn
to page 13.
LEARN MORE
37
ISRAEL’S DECLARATION OF
INDEPENDENCE
The Land of Israel was the birthplace
of the Jewish people. Here their
spiritual, religious and national
identity was formed. Here they
achieved independence and created
a culture of national and universal
significance. Here they wrote and
gave the Bible to the world.
Exiled from Palestine, the Jewish
people remained faithful to it in all
the countries of their dispersion,
never ceasing to pray and hope for
their return and the restoration of
their national freedom.
Impelled by this historic association,
Jews strove throughout the centuries
to go back to the land of their fathers
and regain their statehood. In recent
decades they returned in masses.
They reclaimed the wilderness,
revived their language, built cities and
villages and established a vigorous
and ever-growing community, with
its own economic and cultural life.
They sought peace yet were ever
prepared to defend themselves. They
brought the blessing of progress to
all inhabitants of the country.
In the year 1897 the First Zionist
Congress, inspired by Theodor
Herzl’s vision of the Jewish State,
proclaimed the right of the Jewish
people to national revival in their
own country.
This right was acknowledged by the
Balfour Declaration of November 2,
1917, and re-affirmed by the Mandate
of the League of Nations, which gave
explicit international recognition to
the historic connection of the Jewish
people with Palestine and their right
to reconstitute their National Home.
38
LEARN MORE
The Nazi Holocaust, which engulfed
millions of Jews in Europe, proved
anew the urgency of the reestablishment of the Jewish State,
which would solve the problem of
Jewish homelessness by opening the
gates to all Jews and lifting the Jewish
people to equality in the family of
nations.
The survivors of the European
catastrophe, as well as Jews from
other lands, proclaiming their right
to a life of dignity, freedom and
labor, and undeterred by hazards,
hardships and obstacles, have tried
unceasingly to enter Palestine.
In the Second World War the Jewish
people in Palestine made a full
contribution in the struggle of the
freedom-loving nations against the
Nazi evil. The sacrifices of their
soldiers and the efforts of their
workers gained them title to rank
with the peoples who founded the
United Nations.
On November 29, 1947, the General
Assembly of the United Nations
adopted a Resolution for the
establishment of an independent
Jewish State in Palestine, and called
upon the inhabitants of the country
to take such steps as may be
necessary on their part to put the
plan into effect.
This recognition by the United Nations
of the right of the Jewish people to
establish their independent State
may not be revoked. It is, moreover,
the self-evident right of the Jewish
people to be a nation, as all other
nations, in its own sovereign State.
Accordingly, we, the members of
the National Council, representing
the Jewish people in Palestine and
Zionist movement of the world, met
together in solemn assembly today,
the day of termination of the British
Mandate for Palestine, by virtue of
the natural and historic right of the
Jewish people and of the Resolution
of the General Assembly of the
United Nations.
the principles of the Charter of the
United Nations.
Hereby proclaim the establishment
of the Jewish State in Palestine, to be
called Israel.
We appeal to the United Nations
to assist the Jewish people in the
building of its State and to admit
Israel into the family of nations.
We hereby declare that as from
the termination of the Mandate at
midnight, this night of the 14th
to 15th May, 1948, and until the
setting up of the duly elected bodies
of the State in accordance with a
Constitution, to be drawn up by a
Constituent Assembly not later than
the first day of October, 1948, the
present National Council shall act
as the provisional administration,
shall constitute the Provisional
Government of the State of Israel.
The State of Israel will be open to the
immigration of Jews from all countries
of their dispersion; will promote the
development of the country for the
benefit of all its inhabitants; will be
based on the precepts of liberty,
justice and peace taught by the
Hebrew Prophets; will uphold the
full social and political equality of
all its citizens, without distinction
of race, creed or sex; will guarantee
full freedom of conscience, worship,
education and culture; will safeguard
the sanctity and inviolability of
the shrines and Holy Places of all
religions; and will dedicate itself to
The State of Israel will be ready
to cooperate with the organs and
representatives of the United
Nations in the implementation of
the Resolution of the Assembly of
November 29, 1947, and will take
steps to bring about the Economic
Union over the whole of Palestine.
In the midst of wanton aggression,
we yet call upon the Arab inhabitants
of the State of Israel to return to the
ways of peace and play their part
in the development of the State,
with full and equal citizenship and
due representation in all its bodies
and institutions — provisional or
permanent.
We offer peace and unity to all the
neighboring states and their peoples,
and invite them to cooperate with
the independent Jewish nation for
the common good of all.
Our call goes out to the Jewish people
all over the world to rally to our
side in the task of immigration and
development and to stand by us in
the great struggle for the fulfillment
of the dream of generations — the
redemption of Israel.
With trust in Almighty God, we set
our hand to this Declaration, at
this Session of the Provisional State
Council, in the city of Tel Aviv, on this
Sabbath eve, the fifth of Iyar, 5708,
the fourteenth day of May, 1948.
LEARN MORE
39
ISRAEL’S NATIONAL ANTHEM
HATIKVAH, “The Hope,” was written by Naphtali Herz Imber as a
poem in 1878. It became the anthem of the Zionist movement;
when the State of Israel was established, it became the national
anthem.
Hebrew:
‫כל עוד בלבב פנימה‬
‫נפש יהודי הומיה‬
‫ולפאתי מזרח קדימה‬
‫עין לציון צופיה‬
‫עוד לא אבדה תקותנו‬
‫התקוה בת שנות אלפים‬
‫להיות עם חופשי בארצנו‬
‫ארץ ציון וירושלים‬
40
Transliteration:
Kol od belevav pnima
Nefesh Yehudi homiya,
Ulfa’atey mizrach kadima
Ayin letzion tzofiah.
Translation:
As long as deep in the heart
The soul of a Jew yearns
And towards the East
An eye looks to Zion
Od lo avda tikvatenu
Hatikva bat shnot alpayim
Lihyot am chofshi be’artzenu
Eretz T’zion viYerushalayim.
Our hope is not yet lost,
The hope of two thousand years
To be a free people in our land
The land of Zion and Jerusalem.
LEARN MORE
LEARN MORE
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Don’t forget to head over to our
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leave for Israel, or after you get
back home — to become a fan
of Taglit-Birthright Israel and
add our Facebook app, so you
can...
• Share your photos with other
participants from the last 10
years, from all over the world!
• Receive updates on the latest
news, events & programs from
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Birthright Israel Foundation,
and Birthright Israel NEXT!
• Connect with thousands of
Taglit-Birthright Israel alumni
and fans!
Our fan page can be found at
facebook.com/TaglitBirthrightIsrael
and you can add our app
to your profile by going to
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Taglit-Birthright Israel was
tagged in an album
My Trip to
Israel!
EXPLORE BIRTHRIGHTISRAEL.COM
Keep up-to-date on what’s new with Taglit-Birthright Israel on our
website, www.birthrightisrael.com. On the site you can view the
internet’s most extensive list of Israel programs for young adults,
search for Birthright Israel NEXT events near you, find professional,
fellowship, learning and internship opportunities, enter one of our
frequent photo or essay contests. You can also watch and send our
popular video eCards, or learn more about Israel and Judaism in our
Go Learn section! Be sure to check out these features on our site:
• Pre-Trip Central — Everything you need to know before you leave,
from participants’ videos to the Shekel exchange rate, and more!
• My Bus Photos — Find your official group photo!
• Go Learn — Learn everything you want to know about Israel and
Judaism, from customs and culture to holidays and history.
• NEXT — Connect with other alumni and find events in your area!
• Press Center — The latest news about Taglit-Birthright Israel.
OTHER ONLINE RESOURCES
Watch our YouTube videos!
www.birthrightisrael.com/youtube
Follow us on Twitter!
Taglit-Birthright Israel: www.twitter.com/TaglitBRI
Birthright Israel NEXT: www.twitter.com/BI_NEXT
And for more information on Israel...
Israel Ministry of Tourism
www.goisrael.com
Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs
www.israel.org
The Jerusalem Post
www.jpost.com
Haaretz
www.haaretz.com
Ynetnews
www.ynetnews.com
Links
www.facebook.com/
TaglitBirthrightIsrael
42
LEARN MORE
Taglit-Birthright Israel is
excited for summer 2010 trips!
LEARN MORE
43
CLOTHING
12 short sleeved shirts or T’s
(6 in winter)
4 pairs of jeans/pants
Prescription glasses/contact lens
supplies
1 heavy jacket in winter (carry on plane)
2 bathing suits (1 in winter)
SUGGESTED PACKING LIST
prescriptions)
5 long sleeved shirts or T’s (8 in
1 mid weight jacket or sweatshirt
w/hood
SUGGESTED PACKING
LIST
All medicines (including copies of
Canteen/Water Bottle
3 sweaters or sweatshirts (5 in winter)
Remember to pack as lightly as possible.
We recommend one medium sized
suitcase or duffel bag per person. Note
that you will be responsible for packing
and transporting your own bag numerous
times (even daily) during the trip.
Passport
5 pair of shorts (1 in winter)
winter)
The weather in Israel in the winter months
can be cold and rainy, or sunny and mild.
The weather in the summer months is
hot and dry in the day and cool at night.
Casual, comfortable clothes that can be
layered are best for both seasons. You
will only need one nice outfit for Shabbat.
Given the packed itinerary, assume that
there will not be time to do laundry. The
following list is a suggestion only.
FOR YOUR CARRY-ON BAGS
Sleepwear
14 pairs of underwear
14 pairs of socks
1 pair of water/shower shoes
(Teva’s)
1 pair of hiking boots (and/or rain
shoes)
1 pair of sneakers
1 pair of nicer shoes (for Shabbat)
1 long skirt (women) / nice khakis
(men) (for shabbat)
Cash/Travelers’ Cheques/ATM
Card/Credit Card (check with your
Trip Organizer)
SUGGESTED ITEMS
Adapter for electrical appliances
Books/reading material
Camera, charger/batteries
Journal/address book
Kippah/head covering (men)
Mini flashlight or penlight
Music (CDs)/MP3 player
Plastic bags for wet or dirty clothes
Pre-Trip Book
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
1 nicer blouse or shirt (for shabbat)
Toiletries
1 towel
Travel alarm clock
1 hat or scarf
Umbrella/rain coat
1 wristwatch
Waist pack/day pack
‘going out’ outfits (for city nights)
Electrical equipment has to be adaptable to 220 volts and have a European
adapter for the prong. Equipment on a motor (i.e., electric shaver) must be
adaptable to 50 Hz (as opposed to 110 volts and 60 Hz for North America).
For residents of North America, you must hold a US or Canadian
passport. If you do not have either, you may need a visa and have
other restrictions; please contact your closest Israeli consulate for
more information. If you do not already have a passport, you should
begin obtaining a passport as soon as possible. You will be required to
provide your passport number and a photocopy of your passport to your
Trip Organizer prior to Taglit-Birthright Israel issuing your flight ticket.
No one can travel to Israel without a valid passport. You must also bring
proof of medical insurance that provides for coverage abroad AND covers
pre-existing medical conditions.
SUGGESTED PACKING LIST
45
WHAT’S NEXT?
In the last ten years, over 230,000 people have connected to Israel and
to their Jewish roots during the Taglit-Birthright Israel trip. Once they
return, we keep them connected through Birthright Israel NEXT!
After the trip, you can host your friends for a Shabbat meal and
we’ll pick up the tab — $224 for a meal. Find out more and sign up
at www.birthrightisraelnext.org/shabbat. When you sign up to host
you will receive your own Shabbox, a box full of items that will help
you host your meal - our gift to you!
Looking to give back to the community? At HarvestToHarvest.org, you
can find local volunteer opportunities, learn about the connection
between Judaism, the environment, and food, and see the many
ways you can help repair the world.
If your trip inspired you to learn Hebrew, read on! Text HEBREW to
41411 to get free Hebrew word-a-day text messages on your phone.
At www.HebrewNow.org, you’ll be able to download Mila-4-Phone,
our Hebrew flashcard iPhone app, and find links to Hebrew classes
near you.
In cities across North America, NEXT hosts events ranging from
worldwide holiday celebrations featuring top Israeli talent with
hundreds in attendance, to drum circles, to open-mic nights at a
local bar and cooking classes at culinary institutes.
The experience of a lifetime does not end after 10 days…it’s just
the beginning.
Learn more at next.birthrightisrael.com and stay on the lookout for
an email from us!
AFTER THE TRIP
AFTER THE TRIP
AFTER THE TRIP
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Fill in the following as a memento of your trip:
Trip Organizer:
Flight Depart:
Flight Return:
Bus Number/Driver:
Tour Educator:
Staff:
Guard:
ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS
Day 1:
Day 2:
Day 3:
Day 4:
Day 5:
Day 6:
Day 7:
Day 8:
Day 9:
Day 10:
MIFGASH PARTICIPANTS
PRE TRIP BOOK PHOTO CREDITS
NOTES
NOTES
Alumni photo contest entries: Matthew Borden, Michelle Bowmile, Adam
Burrows, Hillary Freedman, Anna Goldberg, Ali Kellner, Jason Krangel,
Angela Kertes, Gregory Levow, Daniel Nyhan, David Ostmann, Ahbra Perry,
Dana Roffe, Cory Silken, Alison Schlenger, Daniel Saxe, Eric Stone, and
many more!
NOTES
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