Israel Trip FAQs
When is it?
June 7th – June 24th, 2020 (18 days)
How much does it cost?
Total with Houston Jewish community subsidy: $360, includes land and supervised flight (Actual Cost: $6000)
Who is eligible?
Jewish teens currently in 10th & 11h grade as of September 2019 currently enrolled Kehillah High or another Jewish educational experience. Participants must regularly attend through senior year of high school. There will be two required in-person meetings prior to the group’s departure (Sunday, March 22 from 5:00-7:00 pm and Sunday, April 19 from 5:30-7:30 pm) and one required meeting upon our return to Houston. If you have questions about your eligibility, contact Danielle Alexander.
Why Israel? Why now?
Travel to Israel presents a unique opportunity for teens to form a personal connection to our history and to experience their Judaism from a new perspective. But why go to Israel in high school? We believe, and studies have shown, that a multi-week experience in Israel during the high school years can have a profound impact on the development of an enduring and fulfilling Jewish identity. During the course of this experience participants cover every region of Israel, and they gain a richer connection to Jewish history, spirituality, and modern culture.
We understand the unique transformational power of Israel on teen development. We also understand that many parents and teens are considering waiting until college for the 10-day Birthright Israel program. Birthright Israel has updated their eligibility rules. High school age teens who travel to Israel in high school can now also return as a young adult using the Birthright Israel gift.
Who is the trip provider?
Israel Maven is a tour company dedicated to providing high-quality programs in Israel for individuals, families, schools, teens, communities, and corporations. Their goal is to create and facilitate meaningful and personalized Israel experiences that will serve to deepen participants' Jewish identity and act as a catalyst for further growth. Its Education Department trip coordinators are personally involved in every aspect of the program. They spend quality time with the group and are on call for any problems or emergencies that may arise.
The company operates according to the following principles:
To travel to and from Israel, you need a passport valid for an additional six months after your date of return to the US. Be sure now that your passport does not expire before January 30, 2021, or you will NOT be allowed to board the plane. You are responsible for getting or renewing your passport. Passport applications are at 1) any regional office of the U.S. State Department’s Passport Division; 2) your local U.S. Post Office; 3) any U.S. District or State Court having naturalization authority.
Do I need a visa?
Passports of US citizens will be stamped with a permit upon arrival in Israel. If you are not a U.S. citizen, consult the Israeli Embassy as you may need a visa to enter Israel.
Who is the staff?
Danielle Alexander, Director of Kehillah High will be leading the trip along with clergy and educators. The team will also include a licensed Israeli tour guide, a certified security guard/medic, and a dedicated bus driver. Staff understands their responsibility for the well-being of the teenagers in their care, and are knowledgeable about adolescent issues and needs. For the safety, well-being and enjoyment of all, the trip provides full-time professional supervision and leadership from the time of Houston departure to the time of return.
What are the basic program rules?
We place great trust and responsibility on our participants. The basic program rules include treating fellow teens and staff with respect and decency, staying with the group at all times, no weapons, no possession, purchase or consumption of drugs, alcohol, tobacco, marijuana and no new tattoos or piercings during the program. By agreeing to participate in the program, you are agreeing to abide by the terms in the registration form. Participants may be sent home for violating any of these. Travel expenses home will be the responsibility of the participant and family.
What are the rooming arrangements?
Rooming is usually three or four participants per room. Participants can request someone they’d like to room with at our first overnight location. At each new overnight location, we will rotate rooming assignments to allow trip participants to get to know one another and promote group bonding.
When can I see the actual program itinerary?
The trip itinerary with accommodation details will be given prior to our departure date. Note that even confirmed itineraries might require some changes on the ground and parents will be notified of any changes.
How will we get to the flight?
As our departure date approaches, we will announce the location and time for the group departure from Houston. You will need to make arrangements to get to and from the airport on your own.
Can I extend my stay?
For the safety, well-being and enjoyment of all, the trip provides full-time professional supervision and leadership from the time of Houston departure to the time of return. To discuss the possibility of extending a ticket, contact Danielle Alexander. Note: Participants are responsible for any additional change of ticket fees charged.
Can my special dietary needs be accommodated?
All program-related meals in Israel, including those aboard the flights to and from Israel, are certified kosher by Israel’s official local rabbinical authorities. If you have special dietary situations (i.e. lactose intolerance, vegetarian, etc.), be sure to note this in advance on the registration form so we can make proper arrangements for the flight and during the trip.
How is Shabbat observed?
Shabbat is a special time and can be an amazing opportunity for rest and reflection. Friday nights and Saturdays will include prayer, informal discussions and various Shabbat programming. Where possible, we try to include visits to local synagogues to give participants a glimpse of how Judaism is observed locally. Often times our best or only option is a traditional Orthodox service. Even if this is not part of your tradition, it is an opportunity for a meaningful cultural experience.
We strive to provide a number of alternative options for celebrating Shabbat, and participants are encouraged to take a leadership role in how the experience is shared with the group. As a program, we do not drive on Shabbat and we do not oblige or encourage participants to break the rules of Shabbat which they observe. At the same time, what participants do during non-programmed time on Shabbat is their own personal decision. We only ask that everyone be mindful and considerate of each other’s practices.
Are cell phones available?
You can rent a cell phone for Israel through either Israel Phones or Talk N Save. If you have a cell phone that supports interchangeable SIM cards, ask at Israel Phones about SIM card rental.
You can bring your personal cell phones instead of renting a cell phone. Note that international phone and data rates for home cell phones can be very expensive. Whether you bring a personal phone or rent one, we are not responsible for damage or lost devices; we ask for a record of your personal phone number in advance. At most hostels, hotels, and sometimes on the bus, the teens will have access to free Wi-Fi. Please note, some sites that the teens will visit may not have strong cell phone connection, particularly during hikes or desert activities.
Electric Current
Electric current in Israel and Europe is 220 Volts AC. (In the US, it is 110 volts). Many appliances, such as hair dryers and radios, require special converters, so be sure to check with your dealer. Also, some appliances are available with dual voltage already built into their systems (laptops, iPods, cameras). Please note that although these appliances do not require voltage converters, they do require physical adaptors to fit into Israeli and European outlets.
How is family updated during the trip?
Since staying in touch is critical, we will do everything possible to maintain regular communication with participants’ families. Everyone will have a cell phone and we will share updates via email and social media throughout the duration of the trip.
How much spending money should I bring?
It is an all expenses paid program, with all day-to-day expenses and meals included in the cost of the trip. From our experience, participants spend an average of $50-100/week for gifts, snacks, and drinks, etc. If using a debit/credit card be sure your card is accepted at international bank machines. Prepaid cards, such as AMEX – Pass can be used like a credit card and an ATM card. The shekel (NIS - New Israeli Shekel) is Israel’s legal tender. Staff will assist participants in money exchanges at the airport and official currency exchange offices around Israel.
What are the luggage restrictions and recommended luggage types?
Packing can be a challenge. Since the teens will be carrying their own luggage in/out of hotels/hostels, and on/off the bus throughout the program, be sure their duffel or suitcase is made of lightweight but durable material. Consider using a duffel bag on wheels.
One carry-on size bag + one personal hand-held item are also allowed
Before packing, please review the updated restrictions for checked and carry-on luggage listed on the TSA website.
What shall I pack?
After signing up for the trip, we will send you a packing list. Some sites such as the Western Wall and historical synagogues will require modest attire. Girls should plan to have a casual skirt to slip over shorts and a shawl or jacket to put on over sleeveless tops. Boys should carry a kippah.
What’s the summer weather like?
Temperatures range from hot to hotter in the summer. Clothing should be lightweight and comfortable in the heat. Whenever outside for an extended period, teens will be required to have a hat, a shirt with sleeves, sunscreen, and water. Overexposure to the hot Middle Eastern sun can cause heatstroke, dehydration, and sunburns. The good news is the heat is mostly dry – there is very little humidity, and the chance of rain in Israel during the summer is practically zero- no umbrellas needed!
Evenings in Israel tend to get chilly quickly – frequently into the 50s or 60s. Because we will not always return to our accommodations to change before an evening activity, always bring a day-pack with a windbreaker, long-sleeved shirt, or light sweater.
How do I reserve a spot and pay for my trip?
Complete the registration form and mail payments to Congregation Beth Israel c/o Kehillah High, 5600 N. Braeswood Houston, TX 77096 by January 1, 2020. The total payment of $360 is non-refundable and required to reserve your spot. Payment is due by January 1, 2020.
What if I need to cancel?
The $360 fee is non-refundable. If you cancel after May 1, 2020, you will be required to pay the actual cost of the trip barring a doctor’s note or family emergency (Actual Cost: $6000).
Can I visit with Israeli family and friends when I am in Israel? Can my family/ friends visit me during the summer?
Meeting up with friends/family during the trip is allowed with a few caveats. Any such arrangements needs to be coordinated in advance with our staff and planned for non-programmed time, Participants cannot leave the group under any circumstances.
Who holds and dispenses medication on the trip?
Participants are responsible for holding and dispensing their own medications. We understand teens have varying levels of experience managing medications, and so our staff are prepared to provide age-appropriate support in building this essential life skill, such as reminders to take medications on time and reminders to double-check that medication is packed before leaving for a new hotel. Our staff will directly assist participants who have medications that require special handling, such as refrigeration.
Do I need medical and travel insurance?
Participants will be covered by medical insurance while in Israel for doctor’s visits, medication, and emergency treatment and hospitalization. Coverage does not include dental work and/or treatment for pre-existing conditions. (A detailed copy of the policy is available upon request.)
June 7th – June 24th, 2020 (18 days)
How much does it cost?
Total with Houston Jewish community subsidy: $360, includes land and supervised flight (Actual Cost: $6000)
Who is eligible?
Jewish teens currently in 10th & 11h grade as of September 2019 currently enrolled Kehillah High or another Jewish educational experience. Participants must regularly attend through senior year of high school. There will be two required in-person meetings prior to the group’s departure (Sunday, March 22 from 5:00-7:00 pm and Sunday, April 19 from 5:30-7:30 pm) and one required meeting upon our return to Houston. If you have questions about your eligibility, contact Danielle Alexander.
Why Israel? Why now?
Travel to Israel presents a unique opportunity for teens to form a personal connection to our history and to experience their Judaism from a new perspective. But why go to Israel in high school? We believe, and studies have shown, that a multi-week experience in Israel during the high school years can have a profound impact on the development of an enduring and fulfilling Jewish identity. During the course of this experience participants cover every region of Israel, and they gain a richer connection to Jewish history, spirituality, and modern culture.
We understand the unique transformational power of Israel on teen development. We also understand that many parents and teens are considering waiting until college for the 10-day Birthright Israel program. Birthright Israel has updated their eligibility rules. High school age teens who travel to Israel in high school can now also return as a young adult using the Birthright Israel gift.
Who is the trip provider?
Israel Maven is a tour company dedicated to providing high-quality programs in Israel for individuals, families, schools, teens, communities, and corporations. Their goal is to create and facilitate meaningful and personalized Israel experiences that will serve to deepen participants' Jewish identity and act as a catalyst for further growth. Its Education Department trip coordinators are personally involved in every aspect of the program. They spend quality time with the group and are on call for any problems or emergencies that may arise.
The company operates according to the following principles:
- Put people first- They aim to never lose sight of the individual participants in the program, their families & the staff who are involved.
- Thinking “out of the box” - no two programs are ever the same and they need to be creative, challenge themselves and constantly find new ways to involve participants in their journey of discovery.
- Operate as a team- they realize that they play a limited role in the educational experience of the participants and they need to work with all the other players to ensure success.
- Take responsibility- they take their job very seriously and are 100% committed. They work extremely hard to make sure that everything runs smoothly, but when mistakes happen (as they invariably do) they are open and transparent and take full responsibility to solve the problem and learn for the future.
- Love what you do - they love connecting participants with their heritage and with one another and enjoy the challenges that they need to deal with.
To travel to and from Israel, you need a passport valid for an additional six months after your date of return to the US. Be sure now that your passport does not expire before January 30, 2021, or you will NOT be allowed to board the plane. You are responsible for getting or renewing your passport. Passport applications are at 1) any regional office of the U.S. State Department’s Passport Division; 2) your local U.S. Post Office; 3) any U.S. District or State Court having naturalization authority.
Do I need a visa?
Passports of US citizens will be stamped with a permit upon arrival in Israel. If you are not a U.S. citizen, consult the Israeli Embassy as you may need a visa to enter Israel.
Who is the staff?
Danielle Alexander, Director of Kehillah High will be leading the trip along with clergy and educators. The team will also include a licensed Israeli tour guide, a certified security guard/medic, and a dedicated bus driver. Staff understands their responsibility for the well-being of the teenagers in their care, and are knowledgeable about adolescent issues and needs. For the safety, well-being and enjoyment of all, the trip provides full-time professional supervision and leadership from the time of Houston departure to the time of return.
What are the basic program rules?
We place great trust and responsibility on our participants. The basic program rules include treating fellow teens and staff with respect and decency, staying with the group at all times, no weapons, no possession, purchase or consumption of drugs, alcohol, tobacco, marijuana and no new tattoos or piercings during the program. By agreeing to participate in the program, you are agreeing to abide by the terms in the registration form. Participants may be sent home for violating any of these. Travel expenses home will be the responsibility of the participant and family.
What are the rooming arrangements?
Rooming is usually three or four participants per room. Participants can request someone they’d like to room with at our first overnight location. At each new overnight location, we will rotate rooming assignments to allow trip participants to get to know one another and promote group bonding.
When can I see the actual program itinerary?
The trip itinerary with accommodation details will be given prior to our departure date. Note that even confirmed itineraries might require some changes on the ground and parents will be notified of any changes.
How will we get to the flight?
As our departure date approaches, we will announce the location and time for the group departure from Houston. You will need to make arrangements to get to and from the airport on your own.
Can I extend my stay?
For the safety, well-being and enjoyment of all, the trip provides full-time professional supervision and leadership from the time of Houston departure to the time of return. To discuss the possibility of extending a ticket, contact Danielle Alexander. Note: Participants are responsible for any additional change of ticket fees charged.
Can my special dietary needs be accommodated?
All program-related meals in Israel, including those aboard the flights to and from Israel, are certified kosher by Israel’s official local rabbinical authorities. If you have special dietary situations (i.e. lactose intolerance, vegetarian, etc.), be sure to note this in advance on the registration form so we can make proper arrangements for the flight and during the trip.
How is Shabbat observed?
Shabbat is a special time and can be an amazing opportunity for rest and reflection. Friday nights and Saturdays will include prayer, informal discussions and various Shabbat programming. Where possible, we try to include visits to local synagogues to give participants a glimpse of how Judaism is observed locally. Often times our best or only option is a traditional Orthodox service. Even if this is not part of your tradition, it is an opportunity for a meaningful cultural experience.
We strive to provide a number of alternative options for celebrating Shabbat, and participants are encouraged to take a leadership role in how the experience is shared with the group. As a program, we do not drive on Shabbat and we do not oblige or encourage participants to break the rules of Shabbat which they observe. At the same time, what participants do during non-programmed time on Shabbat is their own personal decision. We only ask that everyone be mindful and considerate of each other’s practices.
Are cell phones available?
You can rent a cell phone for Israel through either Israel Phones or Talk N Save. If you have a cell phone that supports interchangeable SIM cards, ask at Israel Phones about SIM card rental.
You can bring your personal cell phones instead of renting a cell phone. Note that international phone and data rates for home cell phones can be very expensive. Whether you bring a personal phone or rent one, we are not responsible for damage or lost devices; we ask for a record of your personal phone number in advance. At most hostels, hotels, and sometimes on the bus, the teens will have access to free Wi-Fi. Please note, some sites that the teens will visit may not have strong cell phone connection, particularly during hikes or desert activities.
Electric Current
Electric current in Israel and Europe is 220 Volts AC. (In the US, it is 110 volts). Many appliances, such as hair dryers and radios, require special converters, so be sure to check with your dealer. Also, some appliances are available with dual voltage already built into their systems (laptops, iPods, cameras). Please note that although these appliances do not require voltage converters, they do require physical adaptors to fit into Israeli and European outlets.
How is family updated during the trip?
Since staying in touch is critical, we will do everything possible to maintain regular communication with participants’ families. Everyone will have a cell phone and we will share updates via email and social media throughout the duration of the trip.
How much spending money should I bring?
It is an all expenses paid program, with all day-to-day expenses and meals included in the cost of the trip. From our experience, participants spend an average of $50-100/week for gifts, snacks, and drinks, etc. If using a debit/credit card be sure your card is accepted at international bank machines. Prepaid cards, such as AMEX – Pass can be used like a credit card and an ATM card. The shekel (NIS - New Israeli Shekel) is Israel’s legal tender. Staff will assist participants in money exchanges at the airport and official currency exchange offices around Israel.
What are the luggage restrictions and recommended luggage types?
Packing can be a challenge. Since the teens will be carrying their own luggage in/out of hotels/hostels, and on/off the bus throughout the program, be sure their duffel or suitcase is made of lightweight but durable material. Consider using a duffel bag on wheels.
One carry-on size bag + one personal hand-held item are also allowed
Before packing, please review the updated restrictions for checked and carry-on luggage listed on the TSA website.
What shall I pack?
After signing up for the trip, we will send you a packing list. Some sites such as the Western Wall and historical synagogues will require modest attire. Girls should plan to have a casual skirt to slip over shorts and a shawl or jacket to put on over sleeveless tops. Boys should carry a kippah.
What’s the summer weather like?
Temperatures range from hot to hotter in the summer. Clothing should be lightweight and comfortable in the heat. Whenever outside for an extended period, teens will be required to have a hat, a shirt with sleeves, sunscreen, and water. Overexposure to the hot Middle Eastern sun can cause heatstroke, dehydration, and sunburns. The good news is the heat is mostly dry – there is very little humidity, and the chance of rain in Israel during the summer is practically zero- no umbrellas needed!
Evenings in Israel tend to get chilly quickly – frequently into the 50s or 60s. Because we will not always return to our accommodations to change before an evening activity, always bring a day-pack with a windbreaker, long-sleeved shirt, or light sweater.
How do I reserve a spot and pay for my trip?
Complete the registration form and mail payments to Congregation Beth Israel c/o Kehillah High, 5600 N. Braeswood Houston, TX 77096 by January 1, 2020. The total payment of $360 is non-refundable and required to reserve your spot. Payment is due by January 1, 2020.
What if I need to cancel?
The $360 fee is non-refundable. If you cancel after May 1, 2020, you will be required to pay the actual cost of the trip barring a doctor’s note or family emergency (Actual Cost: $6000).
Can I visit with Israeli family and friends when I am in Israel? Can my family/ friends visit me during the summer?
Meeting up with friends/family during the trip is allowed with a few caveats. Any such arrangements needs to be coordinated in advance with our staff and planned for non-programmed time, Participants cannot leave the group under any circumstances.
Who holds and dispenses medication on the trip?
Participants are responsible for holding and dispensing their own medications. We understand teens have varying levels of experience managing medications, and so our staff are prepared to provide age-appropriate support in building this essential life skill, such as reminders to take medications on time and reminders to double-check that medication is packed before leaving for a new hotel. Our staff will directly assist participants who have medications that require special handling, such as refrigeration.
Do I need medical and travel insurance?
Participants will be covered by medical insurance while in Israel for doctor’s visits, medication, and emergency treatment and hospitalization. Coverage does not include dental work and/or treatment for pre-existing conditions. (A detailed copy of the policy is available upon request.)
