Wilshire Boulevard Temple
Men's Mission to Israel

Led by Rabbi Joel Nickerson

Jan 20, 2026 - Jan 28, 2026

  • DESTINATION Israel
  • Who's Going Our Community
  • Trip Type Congregational
  • Duration 9 DAYS
  • Group Size 15+
  • 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.

  •   Active
  •   Current Affairs
  •   Food & Wine
  •   Innovation
  •   Special Access
  •   Street Food
  •   Whisky Tasting
  •   Urban Graffiti Tour

Program Itinerary

DAY 1
JOURNEY BEGINS: DEPART FOR ISRAEL
Tue. Jan 20, 2026
  • Depart for Israel.
Overnight: Flight
DAY 2
A FIRST TASTE OF ISRAEL: WELCOME DINNER AND INSIGHTS
Wed. Jan 21, 2026
  • Arrive at Ben-Gurion International Airport, where you’ll be met by our representative for assistance through arrival procedures, followed by a meeting with tour Tour Educator and group transfer to Jerusalem.
  • Stop at the Haas Promenade for a traditional “shehechiyanu” blessing of thanksgiving.
  • Check into the hotel. Meet your J² Expert Educator who will accompany you on this journey of education and inspiration.
  • Welcome dinner and dialogue with Jonathan Conricus, former IDF international spokesperson, for a focused briefing on Israel’s current security realities. Drawing on firsthand experience, he provides strategic insight and context beyond the headlines.
Overnight: Jerusalem Meals: Dinner
DAY 3
EXPLORING ISRAEL’S POLITICS, PEACEBUILDING, AND SECURITY
Thu. Jan 22, 2026
  • Meeting with Adv. Orly Erez Lachovski, Head of IRAC
  • Morning meeting with Nachman Shai, Dean, Hebrew Union College–Jewish Institute of Religion, Jerusalem
  • Drive to Gush Etzion for a meeting with Ali Abu Awwad and Rabbi Hanan Schlesinger of Shorashim (Roots), an organization promoting dialogue and reconciliation between West Bank Palestinians and their Jewish neighbors. Learn about their efforts to build mutual understanding and foster peace through grassroots initiatives.
  • Participate in an intense and hands-on anti-terrorism training session led by former IDF commandos at the renowned Caliber 3 Shooting Range. During this immersive experience, you'll learn crucial self-defense and security techniques, including combat drills and tactical responses, all while gaining valuable insight into Israel's counterterrorism strategies.
  • Return to Jerusalem. Unwind with a drink at Thinkers Distillery, where modern techniques meet tradition in crafting exceptional gin, bourbon, and vodka.
  • Enjoy dinner (on own) with an opportunity to support the local Israeli economy.
Overnight: Jerusalem Meals: Breakfast
DAY 4
A DAY OF REMEMBRANCE AND REFLECTION
Fri. Jan 23, 2026
  • Meet Menachem Bombach, a member of the Hassidic community who is revolutionizing Haredi education in Israel. He will shed light on the Ultra Orthodox perspective on the current situation in Israel.
  • 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.
  • Kabbalat Shabbat at the Western Wall: 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 5
WALKING THROUGH HISTORY: THE LAYERS OF JERUSALEM
Sat. Jan 24, 2026
  • Morning at leisure in Jerusalem.
  • 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.
    • Our exploration of the Christian Quarter will include following the Via Dolorosa, the path Jesus is believed to have taken when he walked, holding a cross, to the crucifixion. At the end of the Via Dolorosa is the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the place where Jesus is said to have been crucified. This church is one of Christianity’s great pilgrimage sites and a testament to the remarkable diversity of the Christian world. It includes an empty tomb where it is said that Jesus was buried and resurrected.
    • Havdalah overlooking the Old City.
    • Evening at leisure in Jerusalem.
    Overnight: Jerusalem Meals: Breakfast
DAY 6
RESILIENCE AND INSIGHT: A DAY IN THE GAZA ENVELOPE
Sun. Jan 25, 2026
  • Check out of the hotel and drive to the Gaza Envelope.
  • 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.
  • Visit Sderot, a city on Israel’s border with Gaza, to understand its community’s perseverance and strength in the aftermath of October 7.
  • Encounter the Healing Trails Project, which guides IDF reservists through a transformative healing journey. Spend time at a horse farm and participate in a sound-healing music circle, experiencing how nature, music, and community support resilience and renewal. Conclude with a shared dinner at the farm.
  • Drive to Tel Aviv and check into your hotel.
Overnight: Tel Aviv Meals: Breakfast
DAY 7
TEL AVIV AND ISRAEL’S STRATEGIC LANDSCAPE
Mon. Jan 26, 2026
  • Israel’s Strategic Landscape: Engage with Col. (Ret.) Miri Eisin, a renowned expert in geopolitical strategy, Israeli security, and media affairs. With a distinguished career in Israeli intelligence and as a former advisor to the Prime Minister, Miri offers invaluable insights into Israel’s regional challenges, security policies, and strategic future.
  • 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.
  • Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Tel Aviv’s Carmel Market (Shuk HaCarmel), where aromas, colors, and sounds come together in a lively celebration of Israeli life. Wander through stalls brimming with fresh produce, spices, handmade crafts, and local delicacies. Enjoy time to shop, snack, and people-watch - a perfect window into the city’s spirited rhythm and creative soul.
  • Tel Aviv is an international graffiti and street art hub. Explore the back alleys and streets of Southern Tel Aviv with your expert educator. How does art reflect the issues Israel is facing today?
  • Indulge in an exclusive whiskey-tasting experience at M&H Distillery. Discover the craftsmanship behind Israel’s finest single malt whiskies, enjoy a private guided tour of the distillery, and sample a curated selection of premium whiskies that showcase the unique flavors inspired by the region’s terroir.
  • 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
DAY 8
SCIENCE, SERVICE, AND HOPE: CONTRIBUTING TO ISRAEL’S FUTURE
Tue. Jan 27, 2026
  • Check out.
  • 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.
  • No One is Left Behind: Gain firsthand insight into the transformative work of Brothers for Life by engaging directly with its dedicated volunteers and hearing the powerful personal stories of wounded IDF soldiers who have overcome adversity through the organization’s support.
  • Experience the dynamism of Jewish life at the newly-opened 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.
  • Private farewell dinner: Reflecting on our journey and charting the path forward.
  • Group transfer to Ben-Gurion International Airport.
Overnight: Flight Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 9
JOURNEY COMPLETE: UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN
Wed. Jan 28, 2026
  • Arrive back in the US.

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
$4,995
Cost p/p in single room
$6,085

Jerusalem: The Inbal

Tel Aviv: Carlton

  • Nights: 2
  • Room Category: Premium Partial Sea View
  • Hotel Website

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

  • 6 nights' accommodations.
  • 7 days of touring with a J² Expert Educator (guide), 6 days of touring in a luxury, air-conditioned bus.
  • Private arrival transfers & assistance at the airport.
  • Group departure transfer & assistance at the airport.
  • Daily breakfast & 3 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.