Congregation Beth Israel
Celebrating 150 in Israel

Led by Rabbi Brian Leiken and Sarah Avner

Feb 7, 2027 - Feb 17, 2027

  • DESTINATION Israel
  • Who's Going Our Community
  • Trip Type Congregational
  • Duration 11 DAYS
  • Group Size 30+
  • Price From $4,180
Program is tentative and subject to change. Connect with our Customer Care Team by calling: (888) 230-6008 Mon.-Thur. from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Eastern Time (ET).

YOUR journey

J² crafts journeys of inspiration, education, and Jewish connections to Israel and worldwide. We are guided by a simple but powerful concept: No two trips are the same; each experience should be personal, meaningful, and backed by superb service. Travel is not just about the places you visit, but the connections you make along the way.

For more information, please contact Sarah Avner at [email protected].

  •   Archaeology
  •   Current Affairs
  •   Expert Scholar
  •   Food & Wine
  •   Jeep Tour
  •   Heritage
  •   Nature Walks
  •   UNESCO Heritage Sites

Program Itinerary

DAY 1
ON OUR WAY
Sun. Feb 7, 2027
  • Depart for Israel, embarking on a meaningful journey of learning, connection, and shared purpose that will unfold through history, people, and place.
Overnight: Flight
DAY 2
WELCOME TO ISRAEL
Mon. Feb 8, 2027
  • Arrive at Ben-Gurion International Airport and be greeted by your J² Expert Educator, who will accompany you throughout the journey, guiding meaningful encounters focused on education, resilience, and hope.
  • Begin your adventure with a stop at the Jaffa lookout for a panoramic introduction to Tel Aviv and an overview of the journey ahead, grounding your first moments in Israel with history and perspective.
  • Explore ancient Jaffa on a guided walking tour, discovering archaeological sites, the historic port, and its significance as one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.
  • Check into your hotel, taking time to settle in and begin acclimating to Israel.
  • Dinner & Discussion - Understanding the Context: Come together for a welcome dinner featuring a keynote speaker who will offer insights into Israel’s current social and political landscape, helping frame the journey ahead with context, connection, and thoughtful conversation.
Overnight: Tel Aviv Meals: Dinner
DAY 3
CULTURE, CREATIVITY & HOPE IN TEL AVIV
Tue. Feb 9, 2027
  • Start your morning with an abundant Israeli hotel breakfast, a feast of fresh flavors that reflects the country’s rich culinary diversity and sets the tone for a full day.
  • Builders and Rebuilders: Walk down Bialik Street, home to many of Tel Aviv's finest early artists and authors, that saw destruction in the recent war with Iran. Visit Trumpeldor Cemetery, where the great thinkers and founders of the first Zionist city are buried.
  • Explore the lively Carmel Market, one of Tel Aviv’s most famous spots, and savor lunch on own while surrounded by colorful produce, local treasures, and a delicious mix of Israeli and international flavors.
  • Discover Nahalat Binyamin, an arts and crafts market, where you can discover handmade jewelry, textiles, and artworks.
  • Experience the dynamism of Jewish life at the newly-opened ANU Museum of the Jewish People, dedicated to telling their story and representing their diversity, highlighting the creative works and cultural riches of a variety of communities in different periods of history until the present day.
  • Pause at Hostages Square, reflecting on Israel’s ongoing efforts to bring every hostage home and the civic activism surrounding this national commitment.
  • Relish a free evening to experience Tel Aviv’s dynamic nightlife, whether it’s relaxing on the serene beachfront, enjoying bustling cafes, or exploring trendy local spots.
Overnight: Tel Aviv Meals: Breakfast
DAY 4
COMMUNITIES: PAST AND PRESENT
Wed. Feb 10, 2027
  • Check out of the hotel and drive north along the Mediterranean coast.
  • Tour of Caesarea, one of Israel's most significant archaeological sites from the Roman period. Explore the ruins of the ancient city, including its magnificent amphitheater and Roman aqueduct.
  • Share lunch at the iconic Uri Buri restaurant in Akko, meeting chef and owner Uri Yirmias as he speaks about the city’s complexities and his culinary philosophy rooted in coexistence and shared society.
  • Discover the historic city of Akko (Acre) on a guided tour, including the restored Crusader Fortress, the Ramchal Synagogue founded by Rabbi Moses Chaim Luzzatto, and the El-Jazzar Mosque, one of Israel’s most significant mosques.
  • Walk along the sea grottoes of the Rosh HaNikra cliffs, discussing the geology, geography, and geopolitics that make this dramatic site internationally renowned.
  • Meet with Rabbi Yael Karrie and members of the Western Galilee Reform community to hear firsthand about life after the war and the realities of living on Israel’s northern frontlines.
  • Check into your kibbutz hotel, enjoying dinner surrounded by serene northern landscapes
Overnight: Upper Galille Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 5
NATURE, SECURITY & RENEWAL IN THE NORTH
Thu. Feb 11, 2027
  • Take a nature hike at the Tel Dan Nature Reserve, a beautiful and serene spot in the Golan Heights. Tour the remains of a 5,000-year-old city and find out why water is like gold in the parched Middle East.
  • Gaze across the Golan and into Syria from the top of Mount Bental, gaining valuable insight into Israel’s geopolitical and security landscape while taking in the region’s sweeping views.
  • Experience the thrill of jeep tour through the Golan Heights, exploring rugged landscapes, ancient ruins, and stunning viewpoints. Experience the region's rich history, strategic significance, and vibrant nature, including lush valleys and volcanic rock formations.
  • Sample some of the Golan Heights’ finest wines at Odem Mountain Winery, nestled at the foot of Mount Hermon and known for its distinctive high-altitude wines.
  • Return to your hotel for dinner and time to relax after a day of adventure and learning.
Overnight: Upper Galilee Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 6
ALL ROADS LEAD TO JERUSALEM
Fri. Feb 12, 2027
  • Check out of your hotel and begin your drive toward Jerusalem, transitioning from the Galilee’s landscapes to the spiritual heart of Israel.
  • Explore the Hula Nature Reserve, a lush sanctuary teeming with storks, cranes, pelicans, and flamingos, where you’ll enjoy the beauty of nature by bike or golf cart.
  • Take in the stunning vistas of the Sea of Galilee, Golan Heights, and Mount Hermon from the top of Mount Arbel, offering one of the most scenic spots in the region.
  • Arrive in Jerusalem and stop at a panoramic overview of the Old City to take part in a moment of blessing and appreciation - 'Shehecheyanu'.
  • Check into your hotel in Jerusalem with time to prepare for Shabbat and shift into the slower, more intentional pace of sacred time.
  • Shabbat Shalom! Celebrate Kabbalat Shabbat at Kehillat Mevasseret in Mevasseret Zion, joining Rabbi Lana Zilberman Soloway and the local community in prayer and song.
  • Share a Shabbat dinner, whether through home hospitality or a communal gathering, and connect with local congregants through food, conversation, and tradition.
Overnight: Jerusalem Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 7
SHABBAT IN JERUSALEM
Sat. Feb 13, 2027
  • Participate in Shabbat morning services at Harel Synagogues with Cantor Evan Cohen, experiencing Jerusalem’s Reform Jewish life in community.
  • Shabbat Conversation with Rabbi Stacey Blank: Engage in a thoughtful discussion with Rabbi Stacey Blank, exploring contemporary Jewish life in Israel, the role of Reform Judaism, and the challenges and opportunities facing Jewish communities today.
  • Tour the Jewish Quarter, tracing the heartbeat of Jewish life through narrow alleys and ancient stones that tell the story of faith, resilience, and renewal. Among the highlights will be:
    • Visit the Jerusalem Archaeological Park, including the Davidson Center and Robinson’s Arch, to explore layers of history where Jewish life once flourished at the foot of the Temple Mount.
    • Step along the Cardo, the main thoroughfare of Roman Jerusalem, and imagine the city’s vibrant past as you stroll among its restored Byzantine-era columns.
    • Stand before King Hezekiah’s Broad Wall, an impressive 2,700-year-old structure that once defended Jerusalem and still stands as a symbol of endurance and faith.
    • Gather in Hurva Square, the lively center of Jewish life in the Old City, where history, community, and spirituality intertwine in the heart of the Jewish Quarter.
  • No visit to Israel is complete without experiencing the Kotel (Western Wall), widely considered Judaism's holiest site. Each year, over one million notes containing prayers and wishes are placed in the cracks of the wall. You'll discuss the wall's historical and contemporary importance and experience its unique atmosphere.
  • Explore the geopolitics of Eastern Jerusalem through guided site visits and discussion of key issues shaping this part of the city today.
  • Conclude Shabbat with a meaningful Havdalah overlooking the Old City, celebrating community, reflection, and the transition from sacred time back into the rhythm of the week.
  • In the evening, immerse yourself in Jerusalem’s vibrant nightlife, including shopping at Mamilla Mall and Ben Yehuda Pedestrian Mall.
Overnight: Jerusalem Meals: Breakfast
DAY 8
CHALLENGES AND RESILIENCE IN THE SOUTH
Sun. Feb 14, 2027
  • Travel south for a day of deep engagement in the Gaza Envelope region, an area profoundly shaped by October 7.
  • Walk through a kibbutz on Israel’s border with the Gaza Strip and meet with a resident to hear firsthand about the October 7th attack, its aftermath, and the community’s ongoing efforts to rebuild and recover.
  • Visit Givat HaTaspitaniot (Lookout Observers Hill) and hear stories about women in the military and those affected by the October 7 tragedy, reflecting on themes of equity and leadership in Israeli military culture.
  • Continue together to Sderot, the biggest town in the Gaza Envelope. Tour the town, engage with locals, and enjoy lunch on own in Sderot where there is a variety of diverse foods to choose from, each representing the different communities of people living in Sderot.
  • Pay your respects at the memorial site of the Nova Festival at Kibbutz Re’im and learn about the tragic attack that turned a weekend of celebration into a heartbreaking loss. Reflect on the memorial created by families and friends - a space of remembrance and heartbreak echoing the promise: “We Will Dance Again.”
  • Devote time to reflection and processing the day’s experiences with your tour leader and educator before returning to Jerusalem.
Overnight: Jerusalem Meals: Breakfast
DAY 9
DEAD SEA BASIN
Mon. Feb 15, 2027
  • Descend to the Dead Sea Basin, the lowest point on earth at 1,412 feet below sea level, and marvel at this one-of-a-kind natural wonder.
  • Climb Masada, a UNESCO World Heritage site, by cable car or the Snake Path, and uncover the story of the Jewish rebels’ heroic final stand against the Romans in 74 CE while soaking in the awe-inspiring desert vistas.
  • Experience the joy of floating effortlessly in the Dead Sea, the saltiest body of water in the world at nine times the ocean’s salt, and feel the unique thrill of weightless fun in this extraordinary natural wonder.
  • Hike through Nahal David, part of the lush Ein Gedi Nature Reserve, where you can explore waterfalls, wildlife, and desert landscapes.
  • Return to Jerusalem and pause at Mount Scopus to take in sweeping panoramic views where the golden city of Jerusalem meets the vastness of the Judean Desert.
Overnight: Jerusalem Meals: Breakfast
DAY 10
MEMORY, VALUES & LOOKING FORWARD
Tue. Feb 16, 2027
  • Check out from your Jerusalem hotel.
  • Visit Yad Vashem, Israel's national Holocaust memorial, where you'll pay tribute to the six million Jewish victims of the Holocaust through moving exhibits, personal testimonies, and photographs. The museum includes the Hall of Names and the Children's Memorial, offering a powerful opportunity for reflection on the importance of remembrance and the resilience of the Jewish people.
  • Take time to explore Jerusalem’s lively Mahane Yehuda Market, where you’ll immerse yourself in the vibrant sights, sounds, and scents of this dynamic hub. Wander through the colorful stalls and savor the flavors of the city’s diverse and dynamic culinary scene.
  • The new Israel National Library provides the opportunity to understand centuries of Jewish creativity through one of the world's most impressive collections of Jewish and Israel-related literature. In addition, the library staff is dedicated to a national project documenting the events of October 7 2023.
  • Meet with Orly Erez Likhovski of the Israel Religious Action Center (IRAC) to explore the dynamic relationship between law, religion, and civil rights in modern Israel, and engage in a meaningful discussion on women’s advocacy and the enduring effort to strengthen Israel in the spirit of the Scroll of Independence.
  • Share a farewell dinner and reflection session, celebrating the journey, exchanging blessings, and considering how to carry its insights and spirit home.
  • Transfer to Ben-Gurion International Airport for your return flight to the U.S., carrying with you memories, connections, and inspiration from your time in Israel.
Overnight: Flight Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 11
HOME AGAIN
Wed. Feb 17, 2027
  • Return home, bringing with you the memories and deep connections made during this memorable experience.

RATES & LODGING

Protect yourself from fraud by being cautious and vigilant when it comes to online theft. It is crucial to note that J² adventures will never send an email requesting you to transfer funds to a new account or to redirect a payment. We will never alter our account number or issue additional payment requests without first personally speaking to you and properly identifying ourselves. If you feel uncertain about any communication (scammers often impersonate legitimate companies via e-mail or by calling), halt and contact us directly through our toll-free number listed on our website to discuss any necessary payments. Refrain from responding to suspicious emails or clicking on links or attachments unless you are completely certain of their legitimacy. By following these guidelines and staying vigilant, you can significantly reduce your risk of becoming a victim of fraud.
participants
30+
Cost p/p in double room
$4,180
Cost p/p in single room
$5,180

Tel Aviv: Alberto Hotel

Sea of Galilee: Nof Ginosar Hotel

Jerusalem: Nucha Hotel

Choose Your Way

VOYAGER
  • Carefully selected accommodations, offering comfort and quality.
  • A seamless, fully curated experience, as outlined below.
  • J² Customer Care available by phone and email.
  • $50 travel credit per person for your next J² journey.
VOYAGER PLUS
popular
  • Guaranteed room category upgrade.
  • A seamless, fully curated experience, as outlined below.
  • Private airport arrival transfer.
  • A signature J² gift awaiting you in your room.
  • Priority dedicated Customer Care.
  • A personal travel advisor for every detail, pre- and post-trip.
  • $200 credit per person for a future journey, separate from this experience.
VOYAGER PREMIERE
  • Guaranteed double category upgrade.
  • A seamless, fully curated experience, as outlined below.
  • Private round-trip airport transfers.
  • A signature J² gift awaiting you in your room.
  • Priority dedicated Customer Care.
  • A personal travel advisor for every detail, pre- and post-trip.
  • Exclusive access to sought-after dining, ticketed events, and premier performances.
  • 10% preferred savings on additional hotel nights, excursions and transportation.
  • $400 credit per person for a future journey, separate from this experience.

What to expect

  • 8 nights' accommodations.
  • 9 days of touring with a J² Expert Educator (guide), in a luxury, climate controlled bus.
  • Daily breakfast, 1 lunch, & 5 dinners.
  • The J² adventures App available on the App Store & on Google Play (active 30 days before your departure and throughout your trip).
  • Water in the bus.
  • Porterage at the hotels.
  • All site entrance fees & program fees as per your final program.
  • This journey includes walking tours, cultural site visits, and hotel stays that may involve uneven terrain, stairs, and longer distances on foot. While we do our best to accommodate a range of mobility levels, a moderate level of physical fitness is recommended to fully enjoy the experience. For more information, please see the “Travelers with Physical Limitations” section in our full Terms & Conditions.
  • Credit card fees.
  • Flights to & from Israel.
  • COVID related expenses, including tests.
  • Evening transportation when dinner is not included.
  • Amendments to the program: In the event that any sites, programs or meals etc. are added to the program, an additional fee may be required.
  • Personal extras: Items of personal nature such as laundry, wines, mineral water, beverages, coffee, tea, food other than the table d’hotel menu, passport and visa fees, insurance, and foreign port taxes, unless otherwise specified.
  • Gratuities: Recommend guidelines for tipping are provided in the terms section.
  • US and foreign airport taxes, Q fuel surcharge and border taxes when applicable.
  • Value Added Tax is currently not applicable to tourists visiting Israel. Should the law change, you will be notified accordingly, and VAT will be added to your final invoice.
  • Peace of Mind Travel Protection Program (POM).
  • This journey includes walking tours, cultural site visits, and hotel stays that may involve uneven terrain, stairs, and longer distances on foot. While we do our best to accommodate a range of mobility levels, a moderate level of physical fitness is recommended to fully enjoy the experience. For more information, please see the “Travelers with Physical Limitations” section in our full Terms & Conditions.
  • Please review our terms & conditions (T&C’s) or request that we send you our full T&C’s. Until you do that, here is the small print, and other stuff you may want to know:
    • Validity | All prices quoted are based on exchange rates as of the proposal date and are subject to change without notice. Rates are per person and are based on shared twin room occupancy.
    • How to Make a Reservation | The quickest way to make a reservation is to register online or contact us by email. We accept VISA, MasterCard, and American Express credit cards. A non-refundable deposit of $675 is required in order to complete the registration process.
  • For any assistance with this registration process or other trip-related queries, please email Customer Care: [email protected].
  • Payments | The balance of your payment is due 90 days before your trip begins, or as specified in your invoice. You will receive an email reminder 2 weeks before this date. Various payment options are available as follows:
    • Credit card | We accept Visa, Mastercard and American Express. Please check with your credit card provider regarding international processing fees. We are unable to process payments of over $1,000 over the phone. Please submit payment online via a credit card or by wiring funds via your bank.
    • Domestic bank wire transfer | Payment should be wired in the same currency that is listed on your invoice. Please add the name of your group or invoice number as a reference and forward a copy of the transfer receipt by email. The bank transfer should clearly state the beneficiary’s name on the wire transfer.
  • J² Adventures reserves the right to automatically cancel your reservation on that date and it may be subject to reconfirmation should the final payment not be received.
  • Cancelation Policy | All cancelations need to be made in writing. The cancelation fee depends on the date when we receive written notification of your request to cancel your booking. Please note that the deposit is non-refundable.
    • Cancelation fees | Cancelations made 90 or more days prior to departure incur the loss of the deposit. Cancelations made 89 to 46 days prior to departure incur the loss of 50% of the full trip cost. Cancelations made 45 days or less prior to the departure incur the loss of 100% of the full trip cost.
    • Cancelation fees may also include: Hotel or supplier cancelation fees. J² Adventures reserves the right to adjust its terms of payment, including cancelation policies and initial deposits.
  • Protect yourself from fraud by being cautious and vigilant when it comes to online theft. It is crucial to note that J² adventures will never send an email requesting you to transfer funds to a new account or to redirect a payment. We will never alter our account number or issue additional payment requests without first personally speaking to you and properly identifying ourselves. If you feel uncertain about any communication (scammers often impersonate legitimate companies via e-mail or by calling), halt and contact us directly through our toll-free number listed on our website to discuss any necessary payments. Refrain from responding to suspicious emails or clicking on links or attachments unless you are completely certain of their legitimacy. By following these guidelines and staying vigilant, you can significantly reduce your risk of becoming a victim of fraud.
  • Protect your investment for $495 p/p: Should you cancel your trip up to 5 days before your departure for any reason, our POM program offers you a trip refund. Call 888-230-6008 or e-mail: [email protected].
  • Please click here to view our full terms (T&C's). These T&C's apply to all reservations created within J2 Adventures.

DISCOVER NEW WORLDS.

JOURNEYS.

A family vacation to Israel. An adventure of a lifetime traveling with friends to Morocco. A  trip to Poland or Portugal with your community. What do these trips have in common? No matter where you go, you will come back with a fresh perspective and appreciation of the place you visited as well as a heightened awareness of your identity as part of the global Jewish community. 

Stuff.

We have everything you need to know before you go. Check out our Instagram my_j2adventures for cool updates and interesting tidbits.