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.
Street Food 
Food Tasting Tour 
Current Affairs 
Social Justice - Food & Wine
Active 
Heritage 
Innovation
THE EXPERT
Program Itinerary
DAY 1
ARRIVAL IN ISRAEL & OPENING DINNER
Sun. Jan 25, 2026
- Arrive at Ben Gurion Airport and make individual transfers (on your own) to Tel Aviv. Check in to your hotel and take time to rest after your journey.
- In the evening, gather for an opening dinner and orientation with your J² educator, Rabbi Shankman and and President Jeff Weiss, setting the stage for the week’s exploration of innovation and resilience in Israel.
Overnight: Tel Aviv
Meals: Dinner
DAY 2
INNOVATION, RESILIENCE, AND THE HUMAN SPIRIT
Mon. Jan 26, 2026
- Begin the day with a guided visit to the Peres Center for Peace and Innovation, Israel’s flagship institution celebrating the nation’s spirit of creativity and collaboration. Explore the Israeli Innovation Center, an immersive, high-tech exhibition highlighting the country’s trailblazing contributions in medicine, agriculture, energy, and technology, and meet innovators shaping Israel’s next chapter.
- Following the tour, take part in an exclusive panel dialogue featuring:
- Chemi Peres, Co-Founder and Managing General Partner of Pitango Venture Capital and Chairman of the Peres Center for Peace and Innovation, continuing his father Shimon Peres’s vision of peace through progress.
- Izhar Shay, former Minister of Science & Technology, venture capitalist, entrepreneur, and bereaved father whose son fell on October 7. Shay co-founded Next October, an ambitious national initiative to launch approximately 1,200 new Israeli startups - each named for a victim of October 7 - as a living legacy of resilience and renewal.
- Experience the vibrant pulse of Tel Aviv’s culinary innovation on a guided tasting tour through one of its iconic markets - the Levinsky Market. Beyond the colors and aromas of local produce, spices, and street foods lies a story of creativity and reinvention.
- Next, travel to the The Kitchen Labs in Rehovot, a pioneering food-tech innovation center supported by the Israel Innovation Authority. Hear from entrepreneurs working on alternative proteins, smart food-manufacturing, and sustainability-driven agri-food tech.
- Return to Tel Aviv.
- 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.
- Evening at leisure in Tel Aviv, with time to explore the city’s dynamic culinary scene, seaside promenade, and café culture at your own pace.
Overnight: Tel Aviv
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 3
LEADERSHIP, PROGRESS & COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
Tue. Jan 27, 2026
- Check out.
- Dialogue with MK Rabbi Gilad Kariv, a leading voice for moral leadership and social justice in Israel. Engage in a thought-provoking conversation on how Jewish values, democratic principles, and national resilience intersect in times of crisis. Rabbi Kariv will share insights from his dual perspective as a Member of Knesset and Reform rabbi, reflecting on the role of faith, ethics, and civic responsibility in shaping Israel’s future.
- Visit Sheba Medical Center’s ARC Innovation Center, recognized by Newsweek as one of the world’s top hospitals, to explore how Israel is redefining healthcare through embedded innovation. Learn how ARC (Accelerate, Redesign, Collaborate) integrates startups, clinicians, and data scientists to advance breakthroughs in AI-driven diagnostics, digital twins, remote care, and trauma recovery technologies - a living model of how medical innovation translates from concept to bedside to global impact.
- Optional (at additional cost): Experience the adrenaline-pumping thrill of piloting an F-16 fighter jet at The Squadron, Israel's state-of-the-art flight simulation center. Step into the cockpit, master aerial maneuvers, and feel the excitement of a true combat pilot in this immersive and unforgettable adventure.
- Drive to Haifa.
- Communal dinner with Or Hadash, Haifa: Join an evening of shared community, conversation, and connection hosted by the vibrant progressive Jewish congregation in Haifa. At this special dinner, enjoy warm hospitality and engage with congregational leaders in a setting that reflects both tradition and innovation - celebrating inclusive religious life, youth and adult programs, social-justice initiatives and cross-generational dialogue as you break bread together.
Overnight: Haifa
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 4
SCIENCE, SECURITY & NORTHERN PERSPECTIVES
Wed. Jan 28, 2026
- Visit the Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, the country’s premier center for science, engineering, and applied research. Meet with faculty and student innovators who are advancing breakthroughs in biotechnology, robotics, artificial intelligence, and sustainable energy. Learn how the Technion’s pioneering collaborations between academia, medicine, and industry are shaping Israel’s global reputation as a hub for cutting-edge research and life-saving technologies.
- Visit the Leshem Institute at Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, Israel’s leading defense research hub, to explore cutting-edge innovations in missile defense, AI, and cyber warfare. Engage with top engineers and researchers to learn how Rafael’s technology has evolved in response to recent security challenges, including advancements developed after October 7.
- Understanding the Security Challenges on Israel's Northern Border: Field Briefing with Lieutenant Colonel (Res.) Sarit Zehavi, Founder and President of the Alma Research and Education Center. Specializing in Israel's security concerns on the northern border, particularly regarding Hezbollah and other regional threats, Zehavi provides unparalleled insights into the complex security dynamics at play.
- Wine tasting at a Galilean winery: Enjoy an afternoon sampling local varietals while learning how Israel’s winemakers combine tradition, terroir, and modern techniques to produce distinctive wines that reflect the rich landscapes of the Galilee.
- Return to Haifa for an evening at leisure, with time to relax and enjoy dinner at one of the city’s vibrant restaurants and cafés.
Overnight: Haifa
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 5
SHARED SOCIETY, AGRITECH & VENTURE LEADERSHIP
Thu. Jan 29, 2026
- Check out.
- Visit to Tsofen‑Tashbik in Nazareth: Meet with this pioneering nonprofit dedicated to creating a truly shared and equitable hi-tech future for Arabs and Jews in Israel. Founded in Nazareth, Tsofen-Tashbik builds bridges through technology by supporting Arab engineers, facilitating cross-sector partnerships, and promoting diversity and inclusion in Israel’s booming startup ecosystem.
- Visit to the Netafim R&D Greenhouse Park at Kibbutz Magal: Tour this high-tech demonstration farm where precision irrigation systems transform arid land into verdant fields. Discover how real-time sensors, drip-irrigation innovations and sustainable crop-management practices are driving Israel’s leadership in ag-tech and global food-security solutions.
- Drive to Jerusalem and check into the hotel.
- Dinner with Erel Margalit: Share an evening with Erel Margalit, visionary social entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and former Member of Knesset, who founded Jerusalem Venture Partners (JVP) - one of Israel’s leading venture capital funds and a cornerstone of the nation’s start-up ecosystem. Hear how JVP’s model of combining investment, innovation hubs, and cultural engagement has launched global success stories in cybersecurity, AI, media, and food-tech, and continues to drive Israel’s economic and social resilience. Margalit will reflect on his journey from policymaker to changemaker, and on how purpose-driven entrepreneurship can shape Israel’s future at home and abroad.
Overnight: Jerusalem
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 6
JERUSALEM: PERSPECTIVE, PEOPLE & PEACE
Fri. Jan 30, 2026
- Optional: Early morning run with RUN JLM in Jerusalem – Before breakfast, begin the day with a refreshing outdoor experience on a guided running tour through Jerusalem’s scenic and historic routes. Whether you’re an experienced runner or a casual jogger, this energizing start to the day combines fitness, culture, and panoramic city views. Learn how RUN JLM expanded its mission during the war, creating running therapy programs for evacuees from Israel’s south and north - providing shoes, gear, and community support to displaced families in temporary shelters. This inspiring initiative highlights the healing power of movement, solidarity, and resilience in times of crisis.
- Israel and the Region Ahead: Dialogue with Dan Feferman, Israeli speaker/author/analyst, on how Israel–Arab world relations, regional cooperation, and emerging opportunities can shape the next decades.
- Tour of the new Museum of Tolerance Jerusalem – “Documenting Israel: 75 Years of Vision”: Explore this compelling photographic exhibition, guided through unique works by leading photographers such as Robert Capa, David “Chim” Seymour and Inge Morath, which document the evolution of Israeli society from its inception to the present day. Discover how visual storytelling at the museum captures the complexities, resilience and creativity of a nation, offering a rich lens into its past, present and future.
- 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.
- Kabbalat Shabbat in Jerusalem (location to be confirmed): Welcome Shabbat together in Jerusalem, joining in joyful prayer, song, and reflection as the city transitions from the weekday’s energy to the peace of Shabbat.
- Festive Shabbat dinner at the hotel.
Overnight: Jerusalem
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 7
HERITAGE, FAITH & FAREWELL TO JERUSALEM
Sat. Jan 31, 2026
- Enjoy a free morning to rest, reflect, or attend Shabbat services at a local congregation.
- 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:
- A climb to the rooftops to see and discuss the ties and tensions between the different faith groups and communities of the Old City. 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.
- 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.
- 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. We’ll discuss the wall’s historical and contemporary importance and experience its unique atmosphere.
- As Shabbat ends, gather for a powerful communal Havdalah overlooking the Old City - using music, poetry, and ritual to mark the sacred transition and close the journey with intention and hope.
- Departure & Accommodation Options (included):
- Late check-out – keep your room until the evening airport transfer.
OR - Full overnight – keep your room for the entire night of Jan 31 and check out on Feb 1.
- Late check-out – keep your room until the evening airport transfer.
- Farewell dinner and closing reflection session led by Rabbi Susan Shankman and President Jeff Weiss. Share personal takeaways, blessings, and commitments for bringing this journey back home.
- After dinner, return to the hotel or group transfer to Ben Gurion Airport for overnight return flights.
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
20+
Cost p/p in double room
$4,950
Cost p/p in single room
$6,350
Tel Aviv: Dan Tel Aviv Hotel
- Nights: 2
- Room Category: Executive Sea View
- Hotel Website
Haifa: Dan Carmel
- Nights: 2
- Room Category: Deluxe Carmel
- Hotel Website
Jerusalem: Mamilla Hotel
- Nights: 2 + LCO
- Room Category: Executive
- Hotel Website
What to expect
- 6 nights' accommodations. Late check out or full overnight on the day of departure is included.
- 7 days of touring with a J² Expert Educator (guide), 6 days of touring 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 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.
- Arrival transfers and assistance at the airport.
- F-16 fighter jet simulator at The Squadron - $200 per person.
- 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 $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.
- 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.
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