Israel Up-Close
With Temple Sholom
Service, Community, Discovery

Led by Rabbi Dan Moskovitz

May 30, 2027 - Jun 7, 2027

  • DESTINATION Israel
  • Who's Going Our Community
  • Trip Type Congregational
  • Duration 9 DAYS
  • Group Size 20+
  • Price From $3,900
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.

  •   Active
  •   Art & Culture
  •   Local Specialists
  •   Current Affairs
  •   Heritage
  •   Food & Wine
  •   Expert Scholar
  •   Home Hospitality

Program Itinerary

DAY 1
DEPARTURE: JOURNEY BEGINS
Sun. May 30, 2027
  • Gather at Vancouver International Airport to begin your journey to Israel.
Overnight: Flight
DAY 2
ARRIVAL IN ISRAEL: PIONEERING ROOTS & GALILEE WELCOME
Mon. May 31, 2027
  • Welcome to Israel. Upon arrival, meet your J² Expert Educator, who will accompany you on this journey of learning, reflection, and connection.
  • Begin your exploration in Zikhron Ya’akov, one of Israel’s first pioneering towns, known for its charming streets, art galleries, and early Zionist history.
  • Celebrate the start of your journey with a welcome dinner at a local winery, surrounded by the vineyards of the Carmel region, where Rabbi Moskovitz will offer words of blessing.
  • Continue north through the lush Galilee landscapes and check into your Kibbutz hotel, your home for the next two nights.
Overnight: Sea of Galilee Meals: Dinner
DAY 3
NORTHERN FRONTLINES: SECURITY, COMMUNITY & PARTNERSHIP
Tue. Jun 1, 2027
  • Begin your day with an in-depth exploration of the realities of Israel’s northern borders and its complex mosaic of communities:
    • Alma Research and Education Center: Engage with a security expert for a deep dive into the challenges and hopes that shape life along Israel’s borders.
    • Shared Society Dialogue: Meet activists working to build bridges among Jewish, Druze, and Arab citizens of Israel.
  • Lunch on own in Akko’s Old City Market, with time to wander the ancient alleys, taste local flavors, and explore Crusader-era sites.
  • Partnership in Action: Spend the afternoon in Kiryat Shmona, Vancouver’s partnership city. Visit Beit Vancouver and meet Rabbi Orit Rosenblit, spiritual leader of Poteach Shearim, the town’s Reform congregation, for an intimate conversation about shared Jewish life and mutual support.
  • Return to the hotel for dinner and reflection on the day’s encounters.
Overnight: Sea of Galilee Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 4
JERUSALEM UNVEILED: HISTORY, HOLINESS & PLURALISM
Wed. Jun 2, 2027
  • Check out and journey south through the hills toward Jerusalem, the spiritual center of the Jewish people.
  • In the afternoon, explore Jerusalem’s Old City and the Jewish Quarter:
    • Walk the ancient Cardo and view remnants of Jerusalem’s layered past.
    • Visit the Davidson Center and the Jerusalem Archaeological Park, where ancient stones tell the story of Jewish life and worship through the ages.
    • Visit the Kotel (Western Wall) and take time for prayer, contemplation, and discussion about its enduring significance.
    • Ascend to the Old City rooftops for breathtaking views of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the Dome of the Rock, and the Hurva Synagogue.
  • Meet with a representative from the Israel Religious Action Center or Women of the Wall at the egalitarian Ezrat Yisrael section of the Wall to discuss religious pluralism, women’s access to prayer, legal advocacy for equal rights at holy sites, and ongoing efforts to ensure inclusive Jewish worship spaces.
  • Evening at leisure to enjoy Jerusalem’s emerging culinary scene.
Overnight: Jerusalem Meals: Breakfast
DAY 5
OCTOBER 7 AFTERMATH: RESILIENCE IN THE GAZA ENVELOPE
Thu. Jun 3, 2027
  • Begin with a conversation with Haviv Rettig Gur, journalist and political analyst for The Times of Israel, who will provide context on Israel’s current challenges.
  • Travel to Otef Aza, Israel’s Gaza Envelope region.
  • Visit a community in the southern region deeply impacted by the events of October 7. Engage in an intimate dialogue with local residents to hear their personal stories of resilience, recovery, and rebuilding. Learn about the community’s challenges and their hopes for the future, gaining insight into how they are navigating life after the trauma while fostering community strength.
  • Lunch in Sderot and dialogue with local residents, learning about resilience and community life under constant threat.
  • Visit the Nova Music Festival Memorial near Kibbutz Re’im - a site of remembrance, resilience, and a collective vow for renewal.
  • Return to Jerusalem to process this emotional day together.
  • Embark on a guided food tour led by Harry Rubenstein, a seasoned culinary storyteller, through Jerusalem’s lively Mahane Yehuda Market. Savor diverse local flavors, meet the vendors Harry knows personally, and immerse yourself in the market’s aromas and stories. (Cost is not included in the package price.)
Overnight: Jerusalem Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 6
JERUSALEM ENCOUNTERS: HUMAN RIGHTS & SHABBAT COMMUNITY
Fri. Jun 4, 2027
  • Explore the geopolitics of Jerusalem through site visits and in-depth discussions led by an activist from Rabbis for Human Rights. Engage with the contemporary social and political issues shaping the city, examining the intersection of faith, human rights, and public policy.
  • Visit the village of Battir with activists from Combatants for Peace. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, inscribed in 2014 as part of “Palestine: Land of Olives and Vines,” offers a powerful setting to explore grassroots peacebuilding efforts and the complex realities of shared land, history, and identity.
  • Return to Jerusalem.
  • Join the Kamatz - Mevasseret Zion Reform Community for a joyful Kabbalat Shabbat service, blending tradition with contemporary Israeli spirit. Afterward, enjoy home hospitality dinners with local families - a chance to share Shabbat around the table, connect personally, and experience Israeli community life firsthand.
Overnight: Jerusalem Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 7
FAITH & FOUNDATIONS: INTERRELIGIOUS DIALOGUE AND JERUSALEM’S STORY
Sat. Jun 5, 2027
  • In Jerusalem’s Old City, meet with staff from the Rossing Center for Education and Dialogue, a leading organization dedicated to interfaith engagement and strengthening relationships among Jews, Christians, and Muslims in Israel. Learn practical tools for interreligious dialogue and spiritual reflection, and experience their unique facilitation model as you explore your own perspectives, questions, and values in a respectful, multi-faith setting.
  • In the afternoon, embark on a walking tour exploring Jerusalem’s pioneering neighborhoods and national institutions. Begin at the iconic Yemin Moshe, with its famous Montefiore Windmill, symbolizing early modern Jewish settlement. Continue to Mishkenot Sha’ananim, the first Jewish neighborhood built outside the Old City walls. Walk along King David Street, stopping by the historic King David Hotel, an emblem of pre-state history and diplomacy. Conclude at the Jewish Agency Building, where pivotal decisions for Israel’s founding were made, reflecting on both the city’s origins and its ongoing evolution.
  • Gather for a meaningful Havdalah ceremony, marking the close of Shabbat and the week’s spiritual journey.
Overnight: Jerusalem Meals: Breakfast
DAY 8
ACTION & IMPACT: VOLUNTEERING AND REBUILDING ISRAEL
Sun. Jun 6, 2027
  • Check out and depart Jerusalem.
  • Take part in hands-on volunteering with Latet, Israel’s largest humanitarian aid organization. You’ll help prepare and distribute food packages to families in need, actively supporting Latet’s mission to reduce poverty and foster mutual responsibility. It’s a chance to make a real impact while connecting with the community.
  • Visit Tel Hashomer Hospital to learn how it continues operations under rocket fire during recent conflicts. You’ll also see how the hospital treats wounded soldiers, giving you insight into their wartime medical response and support for Israel’s defense forces.
  • Join Molet, an initiative focused on rebuilding communities through creativity. In this hands-on activity, you’ll craft furniture pieces specifically destined for a community affected by the recent war in Israel. Your volunteer work will directly contribute to the physical and emotional rebuilding efforts, providing not just functional items but also a symbol of hope and solidarity.
  • Conclude with a festive farewell dinner, celebrating community, connection, and commitment to Israel’s future.
  • Transfer to the airport for your overnight flight home.
Overnight: Flight Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 9
RETURN HOME: REFLECTION AND CONNECTION
Mon. Jun 7, 2027
  • Arrive back in Vancouver filled with memories, new friendships, and a deeper bond with Israel and its people.

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
20+
Cost p/p in double room
$3,900
Cost p/p in single room
$4,815
All rates are in US dollars.

Cost of accommodations for post-nights including breakfast and all taxes at Tel Aviv - Gymnasia:
  • $314 per night, per double occupancy room
  • $290 per night, per single occupancy room
All rates are subject to availability.
Registration open

Sea of Galilee: Nof Ginosar Hotel

Jerusalem: Nucha Hotel

Choose Your Way

VOYAGER

What to expect

  • 6 nights' accommodations.
  • 7 days of touring with a J² Expert Educator (guide), 6 days in a luxury, climate controlled bus.
  • Daily breakfast, 1 lunch, 4 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.
  • Late check out on the day of departure is not included.
  • COVID related expenses, including tests.
  • Food tour led by Harry Rubenstein on June 3, 2027.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.