Houston Teen Israel Experience FAQs
When is it?
June 11 - July 2, 2025
Who is eligible?
All Houston Jewish teens in 10th and 11th grade, as of September 2024, are eligible. Participants must commit to regular attendance at Kehillah High through their senior year of high school. If you have questions about your eligibility, contact Danielle Alexander at [email protected].
How much does it cost?
The highly subsidized Houston Teen Israel Experience Trip is $1,800/participant with your Kehillah High registration or if you are currently enrolled in another supplemental, content-rich Jewish educational experience. If you do not attend Kehillah High, the cost is $2,500. The actual cost is $7,000. Flights and all day-to-day expenses and meals are included in the cost of the trip.
The trip is made possible to you at this price thanks to generous donors, participating congregations, and the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston. If you are not registered for Kehillah High, click here for more information about registering. We are very excited to be a RootOne trip provider again this year.
RootOne is an initiative that is seeded with a $20 million gift from The Marcus Foundation and will help tens of thousands of teens travel to Israel each summer with major subsidies for trip participants. RootOne grants are awarded to individual participants. We count on our teens qualifying for a RootOne voucher to help us reach our fundraising goal for the trip. Therefore, priority will be given to those who have not yet received a RootOne grant.
What are pre-trip commitments?
All Houston Teen Israel Experience Trip participants are required to attend three pre-Israel trip meetings:
How do I reserve a spot and pay for my trip?
Registration is first come, first served. It will open in stages until the maximum capacity of 40 participants is reached. Registration is considered complete upon receipt of the registration forms and the deposit. Payments can be made at events.idonate.com/houstonteenisrael. The $750 program deposit is due with registration and is refundable until February 3, 2025. The balance of program costs is due by March 3, 2025, and is non-refundable after this date.
What if I need to cancel?
If you cancel after March 3, 2025, you will be required to pay the actual cost of the trip, barring a doctor’s note or family emergency (Actual Cost: $7,000). If the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston cancels the trip for any reason, you will be able to receive a full refund.
Why Israel? Why now?
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 three weeks in Israel, participants will have the opportunity to build personal connections to Israel and fully develop a relationship with the country by interacting with the people, tasting the food, and taking in the rich history, culture, and natural beauty. They will wrestle with many issues related to Israeli society, politics, and religion in significant and deep ways. Participants 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?
The Jewish Federation of Greater Houston has teamed up with Authentic Israel as our program partner. Based in greater Tel Aviv, Authentic Israel has been organizing educational travel experiences for communities, youth groups, camps, and schools since the 1980s. Their programs are designed to share the feeling of wonder, discovery, and joy – unique to a summer experience in Israel for teens – while keeping safe travel as their guiding consideration all along the way.
Do I need a passport?
Yes, 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, 2026, 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. For more information, call the toll-free federal information number 1-800-688-9889 or visit http://travel.state.gov/passport.
Plan to carry a photocopy of your passport during the program. Though our staff will hold on to your passport in Israel for safekeeping, we recommend bringing a digital picture of your passport and a paper copy as a back-up form of identification.
Do I need a visa in advance?
US passports will be stamped with a permit upon arrival in Israel. If you are not a US 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 lead the trip with clergy and educators from the Greater Houston community. The team will include one licensed Israeli tour guide, a certified security guard/medic, and a dedicated bus driver. Staff understand 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 Houston’s departure to the time of return. Staff names are typically announced 3-4 weeks before your departure.
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, or marijuana, including vaping; and no new tattoos or piercings during the program. By agreeing to participate in the program, you agree 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 of the same gender per room and may necessitate two participants sharing a queen-size bed. 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. Members of one gender are not permitted at any time in rooms of the opposite gender.
When can I see the actual program itinerary?
The trip itinerary with accommodation details will be given before 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?
You will need to make arrangements to get to and from George Bush Intercontinental Airport on your own.
What flights are we taking to and from Israel?
We are using Frosch Travel to arrange our air travel. We will share flight details with you in the next few weeks.
Can I extend my stay?
For the safety, well-being, and enjoyment of all, the trip provides full-time professional supervision and leadership from Houston departure to return. Trip extensions will not be permitted.
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. allergy, 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, 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.
Using a cell phone abroad
We recommend bringing a cell phone to help staff and teens coordinate and to allow families to communicate with their participants while traveling abroad. Phone usage is limited to non-programmed time, and we recommend limiting your phone usage to get the most out of your experience in Israel. The staff may have additional rules and limitations. Contact your provider to understand the costs associated with international roaming.
Whether you bring a personal phone or rent one, we are not responsible for damaged or lost devices; we ask for a record of your phone number in advance. The teens will have access to free Wi-Fi at most hostels, hotels, and sometimes on the bus. Please note that some sites the teens visit may not have strong cell phone connections, particularly during hikes or desert activities.
Cell phone use as a privilege. Kehillah High Israel Trip staff regards cell phone use on the program as a privilege. Participants will NOT be allowed to use their phones during group programming time. Participants must exercise discretion when using their phones. If necessary, program staff reserves the right to suspend or even terminate a cell phone rental if usage privileges are abused.
What is the electric current in Israel?
The electric current in Israel is 220 Volts AC (in the US, it is 110 volts). Many appliances, such as hair dryers and radios, require special converters, so check the instruction manual. Also, some appliances have dual voltage already built into their systems (laptops, iPods, cameras). Please note that although these appliances do not require voltage converters, they require physical adaptors to fit into Israeli outlets. Please purchase the proper adaptors or convertors before departure.
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. All staff will have a cell phone, and we will share updates via email and social media throughout the duration of the trip. Local Houston staff will also be available for communication.
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, 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 as credit and ATM cards. 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 carry 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.
We recommend sticking to one carry-on bag and one larger checked bag (weighing no more than 50 lbs). Before packing, please review the updated restrictions for checked and carry-on luggage listed on the TSA website. We also recommend bringing a small backpack to use daily.
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, averaging 82.5 °F. Clothing should be lightweight and comfortable in the heat. Teens will be required to have a hat, a shirt with sleeves, sunscreen, and water when outside for an extended period. 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 are needed!
Evenings in Israel tend to get chilly quickly – frequently into the 50s or 60s °F. 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.
Can I visit with Israeli family and friends when I am in Israel? Can my family/ friends visit me during the summer?
Participants cannot leave the group under any circumstances. There will be two predetermined times when family/ friends can visit participants, which will be shared closer to the trip.
Who holds and dispenses medication on the trip?
Participants are responsible for bringing, holding, and dispensing their prescription and over-the-counter medications. Parents should review proper and safe medication practices with participants before departure. We understand teens have varying levels of experience managing medications, so 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 with medications requiring 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.)
TEEN-TO-TEEN ADVICE
Here are some final words of wisdom from teens who went on previous tripsI. Take their advice!
June 11 - July 2, 2025
Who is eligible?
All Houston Jewish teens in 10th and 11th grade, as of September 2024, are eligible. Participants must commit to regular attendance at Kehillah High through their senior year of high school. If you have questions about your eligibility, contact Danielle Alexander at [email protected].
How much does it cost?
The highly subsidized Houston Teen Israel Experience Trip is $1,800/participant with your Kehillah High registration or if you are currently enrolled in another supplemental, content-rich Jewish educational experience. If you do not attend Kehillah High, the cost is $2,500. The actual cost is $7,000. Flights and all day-to-day expenses and meals are included in the cost of the trip.
The trip is made possible to you at this price thanks to generous donors, participating congregations, and the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston. If you are not registered for Kehillah High, click here for more information about registering. We are very excited to be a RootOne trip provider again this year.
RootOne is an initiative that is seeded with a $20 million gift from The Marcus Foundation and will help tens of thousands of teens travel to Israel each summer with major subsidies for trip participants. RootOne grants are awarded to individual participants. We count on our teens qualifying for a RootOne voucher to help us reach our fundraising goal for the trip. Therefore, priority will be given to those who have not yet received a RootOne grant.
What are pre-trip commitments?
All Houston Teen Israel Experience Trip participants are required to attend three pre-Israel trip meetings:
- Sunday, February 2
- Sunday, February 23
- Sunday, March 2
How do I reserve a spot and pay for my trip?
Registration is first come, first served. It will open in stages until the maximum capacity of 40 participants is reached. Registration is considered complete upon receipt of the registration forms and the deposit. Payments can be made at events.idonate.com/houstonteenisrael. The $750 program deposit is due with registration and is refundable until February 3, 2025. The balance of program costs is due by March 3, 2025, and is non-refundable after this date.
- Special refund exceptions related to security considerations will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis by the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston.
- Families are encouraged to purchase travel insurance for the full cost of the trip, including RootOne funding, at www.teentravelinsurance.com/houston.
What if I need to cancel?
If you cancel after March 3, 2025, you will be required to pay the actual cost of the trip, barring a doctor’s note or family emergency (Actual Cost: $7,000). If the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston cancels the trip for any reason, you will be able to receive a full refund.
Why Israel? Why now?
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 three weeks in Israel, participants will have the opportunity to build personal connections to Israel and fully develop a relationship with the country by interacting with the people, tasting the food, and taking in the rich history, culture, and natural beauty. They will wrestle with many issues related to Israeli society, politics, and religion in significant and deep ways. Participants 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?
The Jewish Federation of Greater Houston has teamed up with Authentic Israel as our program partner. Based in greater Tel Aviv, Authentic Israel has been organizing educational travel experiences for communities, youth groups, camps, and schools since the 1980s. Their programs are designed to share the feeling of wonder, discovery, and joy – unique to a summer experience in Israel for teens – while keeping safe travel as their guiding consideration all along the way.
Do I need a passport?
Yes, 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, 2026, 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. For more information, call the toll-free federal information number 1-800-688-9889 or visit http://travel.state.gov/passport.
Plan to carry a photocopy of your passport during the program. Though our staff will hold on to your passport in Israel for safekeeping, we recommend bringing a digital picture of your passport and a paper copy as a back-up form of identification.
Do I need a visa in advance?
US passports will be stamped with a permit upon arrival in Israel. If you are not a US 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 lead the trip with clergy and educators from the Greater Houston community. The team will include one licensed Israeli tour guide, a certified security guard/medic, and a dedicated bus driver. Staff understand 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 Houston’s departure to the time of return. Staff names are typically announced 3-4 weeks before your departure.
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, or marijuana, including vaping; and no new tattoos or piercings during the program. By agreeing to participate in the program, you agree 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 of the same gender per room and may necessitate two participants sharing a queen-size bed. 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. Members of one gender are not permitted at any time in rooms of the opposite gender.
When can I see the actual program itinerary?
The trip itinerary with accommodation details will be given before 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?
You will need to make arrangements to get to and from George Bush Intercontinental Airport on your own.
What flights are we taking to and from Israel?
We are using Frosch Travel to arrange our air travel. We will share flight details with you in the next few weeks.
Can I extend my stay?
For the safety, well-being, and enjoyment of all, the trip provides full-time professional supervision and leadership from Houston departure to return. Trip extensions will not be permitted.
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. allergy, 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, 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.
Using a cell phone abroad
We recommend bringing a cell phone to help staff and teens coordinate and to allow families to communicate with their participants while traveling abroad. Phone usage is limited to non-programmed time, and we recommend limiting your phone usage to get the most out of your experience in Israel. The staff may have additional rules and limitations. Contact your provider to understand the costs associated with international roaming.
Whether you bring a personal phone or rent one, we are not responsible for damaged or lost devices; we ask for a record of your phone number in advance. The teens will have access to free Wi-Fi at most hostels, hotels, and sometimes on the bus. Please note that some sites the teens visit may not have strong cell phone connections, particularly during hikes or desert activities.
Cell phone use as a privilege. Kehillah High Israel Trip staff regards cell phone use on the program as a privilege. Participants will NOT be allowed to use their phones during group programming time. Participants must exercise discretion when using their phones. If necessary, program staff reserves the right to suspend or even terminate a cell phone rental if usage privileges are abused.
What is the electric current in Israel?
The electric current in Israel is 220 Volts AC (in the US, it is 110 volts). Many appliances, such as hair dryers and radios, require special converters, so check the instruction manual. Also, some appliances have dual voltage already built into their systems (laptops, iPods, cameras). Please note that although these appliances do not require voltage converters, they require physical adaptors to fit into Israeli outlets. Please purchase the proper adaptors or convertors before departure.
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. All staff will have a cell phone, and we will share updates via email and social media throughout the duration of the trip. Local Houston staff will also be available for communication.
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, 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 as credit and ATM cards. 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 carry 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.
We recommend sticking to one carry-on bag and one larger checked bag (weighing no more than 50 lbs). Before packing, please review the updated restrictions for checked and carry-on luggage listed on the TSA website. We also recommend bringing a small backpack to use daily.
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, averaging 82.5 °F. Clothing should be lightweight and comfortable in the heat. Teens will be required to have a hat, a shirt with sleeves, sunscreen, and water when outside for an extended period. 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 are needed!
Evenings in Israel tend to get chilly quickly – frequently into the 50s or 60s °F. 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.
Can I visit with Israeli family and friends when I am in Israel? Can my family/ friends visit me during the summer?
Participants cannot leave the group under any circumstances. There will be two predetermined times when family/ friends can visit participants, which will be shared closer to the trip.
Who holds and dispenses medication on the trip?
Participants are responsible for bringing, holding, and dispensing their prescription and over-the-counter medications. Parents should review proper and safe medication practices with participants before departure. We understand teens have varying levels of experience managing medications, so 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 with medications requiring 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.)
TEEN-TO-TEEN ADVICE
Here are some final words of wisdom from teens who went on previous tripsI. Take their advice!
- Israel is hot – drink extra water every day.
- Go with the flow – things in Israel are much less structured than in America...learn to love it!
- Plan to wear sunscreen and bring a comfortable hat – you won’t be given a choice.
- Step outside your comfort zone – e.g., “Get ready for salad for breakfast.”
- Take a lot of pictures (of people and places)
- Prepare to be dirty and sweaty a lot, so avoid clothing you do not want to risk ruining.
- Don’t overpack – you’ve got to schlep your own bags.
- Keep a journal or document your experience online.
- Prepare yourself and your parents for minimal communication over the course of the trip (that’s part of the fun!)
- Again, drink a TON of water!!