Temple Sinai
Family Chanukah Journey
to Israel

Led by Rabbi Ron Segal and Marisa Kaiser
Trip Co-Chairs: Bennie and Cobi Cohen

Dec 18, 2027 - Dec 29, 2027

  • DESTINATION Israel
  • Who's Going Families
  • Trip Type Congregational
  • Duration 12 DAYS
  • Group Size 30+
  • Price From $4,995
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.

  •   Heritage
  •   Street Food
  •   Local Specialists
  •   Special Access
  •   Nature Walks
  •   UNESCO Heritage Sites
  •   Family Friendly

Program Itinerary

DAY 1
ON OUR WAY
Sat. Dec 18, 2027
  • Board your flight and begin a meaningful multigenerational journey of discovery, connection, and shared Jewish experience in Israel.
Overnight: Flight
DAY 2
ARRIVAL TO ISRAEL
Sun. Dec 19, 2027
  • Arrive at Ben-Gurion International Airport and be welcomed by our representative and assistance with arrival formalities.
  • Transfer to Tel Aviv and check into your hotel.
  • Gather for a festive Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant, enjoying your first taste of Israel’s vibrant culinary scene along with an orientation led by your trip leader.
Overnight: Tel Aviv Meals: Dinner
DAY 3
TEL AVIV-JAFFA: OLD & NEW
Mon. Dec 20, 2027
  • Begin your morning with an abundant Israeli hotel breakfast, a feast of fresh flavors that reflects the country’s rich culinary diversity.
  • Meet your J² Expert Educator, who will accompany your family and community throughout this journey with insight, context, and inspiration.
  • Start your adventure at the Jaffa lookout with a panoramic introduction to Tel Aviv and an overview of your journey, then explore ancient Jaffa on a guided walking tour through its archaeological sites, historic port, and timeless role as one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities.
  • 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.
  • Walk along Rothschild Boulevard, the epicenter of the Tel Aviv scene, and follow the Independence Trail in Tel Aviv to embark on a remarkable journey that begins with the founding of Tel Aviv in 1909 and ends with the establishment of Israel in 1948.
  • Visit the Israel ParaSport Center and discover their inspiring work empowering individuals with disabilities through sports, rehabilitation, and community programs, while promoting inclusion, resilience, and achievement at all levels.
  • 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
BEARING WITNESS
Tue. Dec 21, 2027
  • Step into history at the Ayalon Institute near Rehovot, where a secret underground munitions factory operated beneath a seemingly innocent kibbutz during the British Mandate - an eye-opening tour of ingenuity, bravery, and the fight for Israel’s independence.
  • Travel south for a day of deep engagement in the Gaza Envelope region, an area profoundly shaped by October 7.
  • Walk through Kibbutz Be'eri on Israel’s border with the Gaza Strip and meet with residents to hear firsthand about the October 7th attack, its aftermath, and the community’s ongoing efforts to rebuild and recover.
  • Continue together to Sderot, the biggest town in the Gaza Envelope, and enjoy lunch on own where there is a variety of diverse foods to choose from, each representing the different communities of people living in Sderot.
  • Get to know the South:
    • ADULTS: 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.”
    • YOUTH: Meet a desert agronomist and participate in the Salad Trail, learning how innovation and sustainability are transforming agriculture in the Negev.
  • 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
TO THE NORTH
Wed. Dec 22, 2027
  • Check out of the hotel and drive along the Mediterranean coast.
  • Experience the dynamism of Jewish life at 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.
  • Travel through Israel’s changing landscapes as you journey from the coastal plain to the hills and valleys of the north.
  • Connect with Atlanta's sister city, Megiddo or Yokenam, and enjoy a meaningful encounter with local residents, strengthening bonds through shared stories, cultural exchange, and community values.
  • Visit Kfar Kedem for an interactive family adventure that brings Jewish life from 2,000 years ago to life through costumes, crafts, traditional activities, and even a donkey ride along ancient-style paths.
  • Check into your kibbutz hotel in the Galilee and enjoy dinner together in a communal setting.
Overnight: Upper Galilee Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 6
NORTHEN EXPOSURE
Thu. Dec 23, 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 a 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.
  • Enjoy lunch on your own in the Druze village of Majdal Shams near the Syrian border, experiencing local hospitality and the distinct culture of this community at Israel’s edge.
  • OPTION 1: 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 vintages.
  • OPTION 2: Visit the Odem Freedom Farm to learn how Jewish tradition calls us to care for all living creatures, meeting staff who rehabilitate rescued animals and participating in a hands-on encounter with horses, pigs, birds, and even wolves.
  • Return to your kibbutz hotel to relax, reflect, and enjoy dinner as a group.
Overnight: Upper Galilee Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 7
A TALE OF TWO CITIES
Fri. Dec 24, 2027
  • Check out of your hotel and begin your drive toward Jerusalem, transitioning from the Galilee’s landscapes to the spiritual heart of Israel.
  • Welcome to the capital of Jewish mysticism, Tsfat, with its medieval synagogues and modern art galleries. Learn about the roots of Kabbalah while touring the streets and alleys of the city. Your visit will include:
    • Visit the Ari Synagogue and share in the inspiration and innovation that moved Rabbi Isaac Luria (the Holy Ari) and his fellow mystics.
    • See the Caro Synagogue, built originally, in the 16th It is where Rabbi Joseph Caro, one of the greatest of all Jewish legal authorities, taught and lived.
    • Walk through the cobbled streets and alleyways to the Artists' Colony with its galleries, shops, and studios.
    • Visit the Tsfat Candle Factory, famous for its intricate and symbolic handcrafted candles.
  • Travel the Trans-Israel Highway southward, where views of the Security Barrier offer a meaningful glimpse into Israel’s complex landscape.
  • Arrive in Jerusalem and stop at a panoramic overview of the Old City to take part in a moment of blessing and appreciation - 'Shehecheyanu' blessing to celebrate your arrival in the Holy City.
  • Check into your Jerusalem hotel with time to prepare for the arrival of Shabbat and the first night of Hanukkah, embracing the special opportunity to celebrate these two sacred occasions together in Jerusalem.
  • Shabbat Shalom and Happy Hanukkah! Join the local Reform community at Kehillat Mevasseret in Mevasseret Zion for a festive Kabbalat Shabbat service, where the first Hanukkah candle will be lit before welcoming Shabbat, creating a joyful celebration of light, community, music, and prayer alongside Rabbi Lana Zilberman Soloway and the congregation.
  • 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 8
SHABBAT IN JERUSALEM
Sat. Dec 25, 2027
  • Embrace the peaceful rhythm of Shabbat with a relaxed day to rest, reflect, explore the surrounding neighborhood, or attend services at a local Reform or egalitarian congregation.
  • Mazal Tov! Gather near sunset to mark a joyful family milestone with a celebratory B’nai Mitzvah ceremony on the rooftop of the Dan Panorama Hotel, overlooking Jerusalem’s inspiring skyline. Mazal tov to the families and young people reaching this meaningful moment together!
  • Gather as a community for a meaningful Havdalah ceremony overlooking the Old City of Jerusalem, bidding farewell to Shabbat with sweet spices, melodies, and candlelight that create a shared moment of reflection.
  • Following Havdalah, light the second Hanukkah candle together as part of the B'nai Mitzvah celebration, bringing together the joy of Hanukkah, Shabbat, and this important family milestone in one unforgettable communal experience.
  • 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
LAYERS OF JERULSALEM
Sun. Dec 26, 2027
  • Discover the excavations at the City of David, the very core of ancient Jerusalem, view the Gihon Spring, and wade through the 2,700-year-old water tunnel of King Hezekiah. Walk through the recently-opened Second Temple-period tunnel under the walls of the Old City, emerging in the Jerusalem Archaeological Park.
  • Walk through the Old City and the Jewish Quarter, tracing the heartbeat of Jewish life through narrow alleys and ancient stones as you step along the Cardo with its restored Byzantine columns, stand before King Hezekiah’s 2,700-year-old Broad Wall, and gather in Hurva Square, where history, community, and spiritual resilience continue to shape the heart of Jerusalem.
  • 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.
  • Wander through the vibrant Old City market, the Shuk, taking in its colorful stalls and fragrant spices, sampling local flavors, and pausing to enjoy lunch on your own amid the lively atmosphere.
  • Visit the significant Christian sites of the Old City, walk along the Via Dolorosa past the Ecce Homo Arch and Sisters of Zion Convent, ending at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, a crossroads of history and faith. 
  • Climb to the rooftops of Jerusalem’s Old City to take in the views and reflect on the delicate balance of faiths that share this sacred space, overlooking the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the golden Dome of the Rock, and the Hurva Synagogue.
  • Gather this evening to light the third Hanukkah candle, celebrating another night of the Festival of Lights in the heart of Jerusalem while reflecting on the history, resilience, and enduring spirit explored throughout the day.
Overnight: Jerusalem Meals: Breakfast
DAY 10
DEAD SEA BASIN
Mon. Dec 27, 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
  • Celebrate the fourth night of Hanukkah by lighting the menorah together and sharing in the warmth of community after a memorable day exploring the Judean Desert and the Dead Sea.
Overnight: Jerusalem Meals: Breakfast
DAY 11
MEMORY AND RENUWAL
Tue. Dec 28, 2027
  • Enjoy a late morning check-out from your Jerusalem hotel.
  • Spend meaningful time at Yad LaKashish (Lifeline for the Elderly), engaging with elderly immigrants and Holocaust survivors while supporting programs that restore dignity, purpose, and community.
  • ADULTS & OLDER YOUTH: 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.
  • YOUNGER KIDS: Enjoy a day of discovery in Jerusalem at either the Biblical Zoo, where nature and Jewish heritage come alive, or the Bloomfield Science Museum, where hands-on fun makes learning unforgettable.
  • 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.
  • Maintain your connection to the Land of Israel by planting a tree at the Jerusalem Bird Observatory, nurturing the environment and symbolizing growth and renewal, followed by free time to enjoy the serene Deer Valley Park.
  • Celebrate the close of your Israel journey with a festive private farewell dinner at a local restaurant, sharing good food, laughter, and memories of your time together.
  • Light the fifth Hanukkah candle together during your farewell celebration, reflecting on the light, friendships, and lasting memories created throughout your journey in Israel before departing for home.
  • Transfer to Ben-Gurion International Airport for your flight back to Atlanta.
Overnight: Flight Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 12
HOME AGAIN
Wed. Dec 29, 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
$4,995
Cost p/p in single room
$6,560
Child As 3rd (Reduction)
- ($750)

Tel Aviv: Dan Panorama

Sea of Galilee: Nof Ginosar Hotel

Jerusalem: Dan Panorama

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

  • 9 nights' accommodations.
  • 9 days of touring with a J² Expert Educator (guide), 10 days of touring in a luxury, climate controlled bus.
  • Daily breakfast, 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 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.
  • Late check out on the day of departure is excluded.
  • COVID related expenses, including tests.
  • Visit to Kibbutz Be’eri.
  • 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. 

THE J2
World

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