CEE: Israel Uncorked
Politics, Policy and a Taste of the Land

Led by Rabbi Oren Hayon

Dec 3, 2026 - Dec 13, 2026

  • DESTINATION Israel
  • Who's Going Adults Only
  • Trip Type Community
  • Duration 11 DAYS
  • Group Size 25+
  • Price From $4,670
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.

  •   Art & Culture
  •   Current Affairs
  •   Food & Wine
  •   Heritage
  •   Social Justice
  •   Special Access
  •   Archaeology
  •   Local Specialists

Program Itinerary

DAY 1
ON OUR WAY
Thu. Dec 3, 2026
  • Board your flight from Houston to Israel and embark on your journey of discovery and connection with the people, history, and culture of Israel!
Overnight: Flight
DAY 2
WELCOME TO ISRAEL
Fri. Dec 4, 2026
  • Arrive at Ben-Gurion International Airport and meet your J² Expert Educator, who will guide you and your community through this exciting journey of discovery, education, and inspiration.
  • Start your journey in Israel with a stop at the Jaffa lookout for a panoramic introduction to Tel Aviv and an overview of your adventure in Israel.
  • Check into the hotel and prepare for Shabbat.
  • Shabbat Shalom! As the sun sets over Tel Aviv, come together as a community for a Kabbalat Shabbat service at the beach overlooking the Mediterranean sea.
  • Enjoy a festive Shabbat dinner at the hotel or a local restaurant, where you'll savor your first taste of Israel's vibrant and diverse culinary scene.
Overnight: Tel Aviv Meals: Dinner
DAY 3
SHABBAT BY THE WATER
Sat. Dec 5, 2026
  • Breakfast at an Israeli hotel is an experience in itself. Start the day with a bounteous buffet.
  • Explore Tel Aviv through the lens of "Monument and Memory," visiting key sites that trace the city’s transformation from a Zionist dream to a modern Jewish metropolis while reflecting on the ideals, sacrifices, and evolving identity that shaped the State of Israel.
  • Enjoy lunch on own at the Sarona Market, which was once a colony of Templars, German Christian pilgrims to the Holy Land, but is now a center of Tel Aviv cuisine.
  • Experience the dynamism of Jewish life at the 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.
  • Meet with activists from Ahim ve Ahayot LaNeshek, Brothers & Sisters in Arms, a civic-social movement of IDF reservists who united to protest the judicial reforms in Israel and became a driving force in civilian relief efforts following October 7th, supporting evacuated communities and front-line needs.
  • Pause at Hostages Square and reflect on the powerful history of Israel’s relentless efforts to bring every hostage home. Discover the emotional stories of resilience and heroism, and gain a deeper understanding of how this site symbolizes the nation's unwavering commitment to the safety and wellbeing of its people.
  • Participate in a communal Havdalah ceremony on the beach, as we take the time to say goodbye to Shabbat and usher in a new week of exploration.
  • Step into the Nalaga’at (Please Touch) Center in Jaffa, where deaf and blind staff lead you through a cultural and sensory experiences, including a dinner in complete darkness, that will deepen your appreciation for inclusion and communication.
Overnight: Tel Aviv Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 4
CHALLENGES IN THE SOUTH
Sun. Dec 6, 2026
  • Travel south to the Gaza Envelope.
  • Walk through Moshav Nativ Ha’asarah on the Israel-Gaza border, where you’ll meet a local resident to hear firsthand stories of life under threat, the trauma and resilience following the October 7 attacks, and the community’s ongoing efforts to heal and rebuild. Conclude with a visit and wine tasting at the Oren Winery, established in memory of Oren Stern, who gave his life defending the people of Nativ Ha’asarah.
  • Continue to Sderot, a city on Israel’s border with the Gaza Strip. Take time to have lunch, tour the town, and engage with locals - offering a glimpse into the challenges and resilience of the community since October 7.
  • Stop at Givat HaTaspitaniot (Lookout Observers Hill) for a lookout of Gaza. Hear stories about the women in the military and honor the IDF field observers who lost their lives during the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack.
  • 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 Tel Aviv.
Overnight: Tel Aviv Meals: Breakfast
DAY 5
COMMUNITIES PAST AND PRESENT
Mon. Dec 7, 2026
  • Check out of the hotel and travel towards northern Israel.
  • Volunteer and lend a hand in the fields with Leket Israel, a leading food rescue organization, by harvesting fruits and vegetables that will be distributed to individuals and families in need across the country.
  • Meet with students from the Givat Haviva International School, an institution recognized by UNESCO for peace-building where Jewish, Arab, and international teens live and learn together, developing the skills to create a shared society.
  • A Complexed Partnership, Reality of Israeli Arabs Today: Dialogue with Mohammed Darawshe, Director of Planning, Equality & Shared Society at the Givat Haviva Center, as he offers insights on bridging divides, fostering coexistence, and the challenges and opportunities in building a more inclusive society in today’s Israel.
  • Drive to the Galilee to check into your kibbutz hotel and enjoy dinner.
Overnight: Upper Galilee Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 6
NORTHERN EXPOSURE
Tue. Dec 8, 2026
  • Ascend the Golan Heights, where startling landscapes meet layers of history, from ancient Jewish roots to modern-day Israel’s story of renewal.
  • Explore the ancient Jewish town of Gamla in the Golan Heights, where the ruins of a 1st-century BCE synagogue testify to Jewish resilience; walk to the Bird Observatory to see the famous vultures and remember the defenders who chose death over surrender in 67 CE; and reflect at the 150-foot Gamla Waterfall, a serene symbol of the land's enduring spirit.
  • Northern Borders, Northern Battles: From the summit of Mount Bental, gaze across the Golan Heights into Syria and gain profound insights into Israel's security and geopolitical landscape. Hear a detailed analysis from a research expert at the Alma Research and Education Center on the current challenges Israel faces along its northern border post-October 7th.
  • Meet the good people of a kibbutz on the Israel-Lebanon border who are returning home to rebuild their lives in the aftermath of the Hezbollah-Israel War. Tour the kibbutz and discover its history, values, and how this pioneering way of living shapes Israeli society today.
  • Visit the historic Tel Hai settlement, where Zionist hero Joseph Trumpeldor fell in 1920 while defending the northern frontier, an iconic moment that shaped the ethos of sacrifice and courage in early Zionist memory and gave rise to the enduring Hebrew phrase "It is good to die for our country."
  • Join an Israeli-Druze family at their home to talk, over tea and coffee, about their rich culture and daily life, followed by a hands-on GalilEat cooking workshop where you’ll learn authentic Druze recipes culminating in a traditional dinner.
Overnight: Upper Galilee Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 7
ALL ROADS LEAD TO JERUSALEM
Wed. Dec 9, 2026
  • Check out of your hotel.
  • Take in the stunning panoramic 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.
  • Visit the Kinneret Cemetery, where legendary Zionist figures like Rachel the Poetess and Naomi Shemer are laid to rest and discover the stories that shaped a nation.
  • Explore Sindyanna of Galilee and sample some of their award-winning olive oil. You’ll learn how this non-profit organization is producing fine, fair-trade products and creating economic opportunities for Arab women, one of Israel’s most underemployed sectors.
  • Drive south on the Trans-Israel Highway and see the Security Barrier.
  • Enjoy a tasting tour at Psagot Winery and meet Jewish settlers living in the heart of Samaria (the West Bank) as they share their personal stories of faith, resilience, and the challenges of living in this contested and sometimes dangerous region.
  • Travel to Jerusalem and stop at a panoramic view of the Old City of Jerusalem and take part in a "Shehecheyanu" blessing of thanksgiving to celebrate your arrival in the Holy City.
  • Check into your hotel in Jerusalem.
Overnight: Jerusalem Meals: Breakfast
DAY 8
A NATION'S CAPITAL
Thu. Dec 10, 2026
  • Tour the Supreme Court with a leader from the Israel Religious Action Center (IRAC) to explore Israel's social justice initiatives, including the ongoing judicial reforms and the significant protests surrounding them, offering a deep dive into the complex interplay of law, religion, and civic rights in contemporary Israel.
  • Visit the new Israel National Library to explore centuries of Jewish creativity through one of the world's most impressive collections of Jewish and Israel-related literature. Engage with the library staff, who are leading a national project documenting the events of October 7, 2023, preserving firsthand accounts, testimonies, and historical records to ensure this pivotal moment is remembered and studied for generations to come.
  • Delve into the vibrant energy of Jerusalem’s Mahane Yehuda Market, where the sights, sounds, and scents create a dynamic and lively atmosphere. Stroll through colorful stalls and savor the diverse flavors that define the city’s culinary scene.
  • Explore the complex geopolitics of Jerusalem through thought-provoking site visits and discussions that bring history and current events to life. Delve into the city’s religious, political, and cultural significance as you visit key locations such as the Seam Line, East Jerusalem neighborhoods, and overlook government institutions.
  • In the evening, immerse yourself in Jerusalem’s vibrant nightlife, including shopping at Mamilla Mall or exploring the First Station and Ben Yehuda Pedestrian Mall.
Overnight: Jerusalem Meals: Breakfast
DAY 9
MEMORY AND HOPE
Fri. Dec 11, 2026
  • J² Salon Talk: A Time to Remember and a Time to Forget. Memory is a key part of Jewish identity. But aren’t some parts of history better left forgotten? We’ll be hearing from a variety of voices – Bob Marley, Yehuda Amihai, Rabbi Nahman, and Elie Wiesel – to talk about the role of remembering and forgetting in Jewish life.
  • Visit Mount Herzl, Israel’s national cemetery, to visit the burial site of Theodore Herzl, the visionary of the state of Israel. Pay respects to Israel former leaders and honor the fallen soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the people of the state of Israel. Join in a Kaddish ceremony marking the anniversary of the deaths of soldiers who fell on this day.
  • Bake with purpose: Participate in a challah or babka baking workshop with Rabbi Chef Nissimi, a former reservist who shares his deeply personal experience of notifying families about fallen soldiers. Through his story, discover how food, community, and love can be powerful tools for healing.
  • Shabbat Shalom! Welcome the Shabbat with Kabbalat Shabbat services at a local inclusive Reform congregation.
  • Home Hospitality Shabbat dinner/communal Shabbat dinner with local congregants, where you’ll share a traditional meal and have the opportunity engage and connect with the Reform Jewish community in Israel.
Overnight: Jerusalem Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 10
SHABBAT IN JERUSALEM
Sat. Dec 12, 2026
  • Enjoy a relaxed morning with leisure time at your hotel or to explore your surroundings before checking out of your hotel.
  • Climb to the rooftops of the Old City to see and discuss the ties and tensions between the different faith groups and communities that make it up. From this one spot, we'll look out over the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, venerated by Christian groups as the burial place of Jesus; the golden Dome of the Rock, which is sacred to Islam; and the Jewish Quarter's famous Hurva Synagogue.
  • Take a walking tour through Jerusalem's Old City and the Jewish Quarter and experience the center of Jewish life, history, and holiness. Among the highlights will be:
    • The Cardo, the main street of Roman-controlled Jerusalem and its spectacular Byzantine-era columns.
    • King Hezekiah's "Broad Wall," a massive wall built to protect Jerusalem from invasion 2,700 years ago.
    • Hurva Square, the center of modern-day life in the Jewish Quarter.
  • Continue to the Kotel (Western Wall), widely considered Judaism’s holiest site. You’ll discuss the wall’s historical and contemporary importance and experience its unique atmosphere.
  • Participate in a communal Havdalah ceremony overlooking the Old City of Jerusalem, as you take the time to say goodbye to Shabbat and and reflect on your time in Israel.
  • Celebrate the end of your journey in Israel with a festive private farewell dinner at a local restaurant.
  • Transfer to Ben-Gurion International Airport for your flight back to the US.
Overnight: Flight Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 11
HOME AGAIN
Sun. Dec 13, 2026
  • 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
25+
Cost p/p in double room
$4,670
Cost p/p in single room
$6,110

Tel Aviv: Sheraton

Upper Galilee: Pastoral Kfar Blum Hotel

Jerusalem: The Inbal

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.

What to expect

  • 8 nights' accommodations.
  • 9 days of touring with a J² Expert Educator (guide), 9 days of touring in a luxury, climate controlled bus.
  • Daily breakfast & 6 dinners.
  • The J² adventures App available on the App Store & on Google Play (active 30 days before your departure and throughout your trip).
  • Water on 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.
  • Late check out on the day of departure.
  • 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).
  • 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 $500 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.