Welcome
Bruchim HaBa’im!
You've made the decision to go to Israel, and we look forward to welcoming you!
As you may already expect, exploring Israel is quite unlike any other destination. As a country, Israel can be experienced on so many levels. As the birthplace of the Jewish People, Israel is an ancient land – full of archeological treasures with colorful stories to tell. Israel is the home of a modern Jewish State – with its multi-ethnic society, unique democratic traditions, and vibrant cultural life. At the meeting point of three continents, Israel hosts a breathtaking landscape ranging from alpine meadows, rolling mountains, desert canyons, sandy beaches, and tropical seas – all compressed within a tiny strip of land. Finally, Israel represents the heart of the Jewish religion – the object of prayer for millennia and the spiritual link connecting Jewish people to each other.
The Torah refers to Israel as the “Promised Land”. This phrase can be interpreted literally, and it can also be understood as a Land of Promise – a beacon on the winding journey of the Jewish People towards a more perfect world. As you embark on your travels in the Land of Israel this season, it is our hope that you will uncover your own unique connections to this vision of a Promised Land.
The Authentic Israel Team
PREPARATION CHECKLIST
Read this guide in its entirety, but pay special attention to:
Check the expiration date of your passport to ensure it does not expire within six months of your arrival date.
Send your final travel information, including your full flight itinerary, to us at register@authenticisrael.net
Join your trip's Facebook group so you can meet each other beforehand - and stay in touch when you get home (invites go out about 4-6 weeks prior to the program start date)
Contact your home cellphone provider to learn about their options for voice/data service in Israel. Optional local cellphone, SIM card and/or Mi-Fi service available at www.stayconnectedabroad.com
Purchase optional travel insurance prior to paying your trip balance to qualify for full policy benefits
Check whether your home medical insurance covers you abroad and what the claims process is. Optional no-hassle local medical insurance is available at www.authenticisrael.com/medical (must be done within 14 days of your arrival date in Israel)
Notify your debit and/or credit card company of your travel plans to avoid a potential security hold on your card abroad
Add info@authenticisrael.net to your safe sender list so you can be sure to receive our email updates