The Village Temple in Israel
A Journey of Service & Learning

Led by Rabbi Diana Fersko

Apr 26, 2026 - Apr 30, 2026

  • DESTINATION Israel
  • Who's Going Our Community
  • Trip Type Congregational
  • Duration 5 DAYS
  • Group Size 15+
  • Price From $1,200
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
  •   Social Justice
  •   Special Access

Program Itinerary

DAY 1
ARRIVAL & INSIGHT: TOUCHING DOWN IN ISRAEL
Sun. Apr 26, 2026
  • Arrive at Ben-Gurion International Airport. Meet your J² Expert Educator who will accompany you on this journey of education and inspiration.
  • Group transfer to Tel Aviv and check into your hotel.
  • Welcome dinner and dialogue with Haviv Rettig Gur, senior analyst at The Times of Israel. Since 2005, he has covered Israeli politics, foreign and regional policies, and the complex relationship with the Jewish Diaspora.
Overnight: Tel Aviv Meals: Dinner
DAY 2
ACTIVISM & RESILIENCE: VOLUNTEERS LEADING THE WAY
Mon. Apr 27, 2026
  • Brothers and Sisters in Arms - Achim v'Achiot L’Neshek, a movement that was founded to protest against Democratic Reform, pivoted their activity to become the largest civilian volunteer network on the ground today. We will meet with Dr. Karine Nahon, a data scientist who developed an AI algorithm to identify missing people following October 7. Dr. Nahon will address being a female leader in the movement, and gender politics in Israel today.
  • Visit the Weizmann Institute of Science in Rehovot, recently struck by an Iranian missile on the night of June 15, 2025 - an attack on Israel’s “crown jewel of science” that destroyed over 45 laboratories, including key life-sciences and chemistry research spaces, erasing years of cutting‑edge work while leaving no casualties. The visit offers a poignant lens on the intersection of science, national resilience, and the existential stakes of research under conflict.
  • Participate in a hands-on workshop with MOLET, an innovative organization dedicated to creating sustainable furniture solutions. During this workshop, you will collaborate to build furniture for the displaced communities of the Gaza Envelope who are working to rebuild their homes and lives after recent challenges. This meaningful activity allows you to contribute directly to their recovery while learning about the resilience and strength of these communities.
  • Visit Hostages Square – a major site of public activism about the struggle for the Israeli hostages held by Hamas in Gaza and the trauma of the October 7th War. Today, the square honors the return home of the last living captives while calling for the sacred task of bringing home the bodies of those murdered for proper burial.
  • Meet with a returned hostage or with a family member who fought tirelessly for their loved one’s release.
Overnight: Tel Aviv Meals: Breakfast
DAY 3
COURAGE ON THE BORDER: STORIES FROM THE SOUTH
Tue. Apr 28, 2026
  • Agricultural Volunteering with HaShomer HaChadash: Support Israeli farmers and communities in the Negev by participating in hands-on agricultural volunteer work. Assist with harvesting, planting, and maintaining farmland while learning about the challenges facing local farmers. This meaningful experience strengthens food security, fosters resilience, and connects volunteers to the land and people of Israel.
  • Travel to the Israel-Gaza border.
  • Visit Sderot, a city on Israel’s border with Gaza, to understand its community’s perseverance and strength in the aftermath of October 7.
  • Visit the resilient community of Kibbutz Kfar Aza. Hear firsthand from community members about the profound trauma they experienced and their unwavering determination to rebuild, showcasing their collective strength and hope in the face of immense challenges. Engage in a heartfelt dialogue with kibbutz members about their journey of recovery and the bonds that sustain their community.
  • Continue your journey to the site of the Nova Music Festival, which has transformed into a poignant living memorial for those who lost their lives on October 7. As you walk through the grounds, you will witness the heartfelt tributes and commemorative displays that honor the victims. The memorial stands as a place for reflection, mourning, and remembrance, ensuring that the legacy of those affected endures.
  • Meet Avi Dabush, Executive Director of Rabbis for Human Rights: Hear from a survivor of the October 7 attack and leading advocate for justice in Israel about his work bridging Jewish values, human rights, and resilience in times of conflict.
  • Devote time to sharing and reflection with your expert educator and tour leader following your experiences and discussions along the Israel-Gaza border.
  • Return to Tel Aviv.
Overnight: Tel Aviv Meals: Breakfast
DAY 4
SERVICE & SOLIDARITY: STANDING WITH ISRAEL
Wed. Apr 29, 2026
  • Spend a full day volunteering with Sar-El, assisting with logistical support on an IDF base - packing medical supplies, sorting equipment, and contributing to Israel’s resilience through meaningful, hands-on service alongside soldiers and fellow volunteers.
  • Return to Tel Aviv.
  • Evening at leisure in Tel Aviv: Enjoy time to experience the city’s vibrant energy at your own pace - stroll along the lively beachfront promenade, or savor dinner at one of Tel Aviv’s acclaimed restaurants showcasing Israel’s dynamic culinary scene.
Overnight: Tel Aviv Meals: Breakfast, Boxed Lunch
DAY 5
CONNECTING, HEALING, AND CELEBRATING LIFE IN JERUSALEM
Thu. Apr 30, 2026
  • Check out and head to Jerusalem.
  • Meet with a senior leader from the Religious Action Center (IRAC) for an in-depth discussion on their social justice initiatives in Israel. Explore how the organization advocates for civil rights, equality, and human rights, and learn how these efforts connect to broader Jewish values and global social justice movements.
  • Mount Herzl is Israel's central military cemetery and hosts the graves of the leaders of the nation. Over the last two years, the recently fallen have joined this sacred place. Visit Mount Herzl and contend with the human price paid by Israeli families and the country in the Israel-Hamas War.
  • Dialogue with a Bereaved Family Member: Engage in a deeply moving conversation with a family member who has lost a loved one during Israel’s recent war. Hear firsthand about their personal journey through grief and loss, and learn how they have found the strength to move forward despite unimaginable pain.
  • Explore the bustling Machane Yehuda market in Jerusalem, where you'll find an array of fresh produce, spices, and artisanal crafts. Experience the vibrant atmosphere as you interact with local vendors and immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of the city.
  • Spend about an hour baking challah or babka with Nissimi, a chef, ordained rabbi, educator, and speaker. A reservist who notifies families of lost loved ones, Nissimi shares his personal story and Israel’s broader narrative, connecting baking with healing. He demonstrates how sharing food and love can bring comfort in times of loss. The freshly baked goods will be given to IDF soldiers spending Shabbat on base, making this experience both meaningful and impactful.
  • Where Do We Go From Here? Gather in the Old City at Ezrat Yisrael, the egalitarian section of the Kotel, to reflect on our shared journey and consider the path forward - for ourselves, our community, and Israel.
  • Private farewell dinner at a local restaurant.
  • Group transfer to Ben-Gurion International Airport for your flight back to the US.
Overnight: Flight Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

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
15+
Cost p/p in double room
$1,200
Cost p/p in single room
$1,800

Tel Aviv: Carlton

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

  • 4 nights' accommodations.
  • 5 days of touring with a J² Expert Educator (guide) in a luxury, climate controlled bus.
  • Daily breakfast, 1 lunch & 2 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.
  • Credit card fees.
  • Flights to & from Israel.
  • Late check out on the day of departure is not included.
  • 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).
  • 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.