Clockwise from top left: early Kabbalat Shabbat service near the Prime Minister’s residence in Jerusalem; Cultural life continues; 24-hour hostages “reminder” near the Knesset; Saturday night hostages rally in Jerusalem.

Back from Israel, ready to plan the next visit

On May 27, Ellie and I returned from a 12-day trip to Israel. We communed with family and friends; paid respects at a few of the October 7 terror attack sites; went to our favorite Jerusalem falafel stand (twice!); spent more money than on any previous trip (helping the economy); visited some new (for us) places; and felt the imperative to reschedule our synagogue community trip!

Many have asked us, “How was your trip, wonderful?” I had to answer, “Not wonderful; it was fulfilling, enlightening, saddening.” Images of the hostages, and demands for their release, were everywhere. Each Saturday night, protests are staged on behalf of the hostages and, at least in Jerusalem, against the Netanyahu government. The spirit was uplifting; the reasons for the protests maddening. Other protests advocating for the hostages run around the clock.

Since we returned, a number of people have asked when we could plan another trip. I’m happy to report that, in Jerusalem, we met with David Abraham, the organizer who helped us craft a comprehensive itinerary for the previous trip. Here are some early thoughts about our next effort, in autumn of 2025:

• Tentative dates: Arrive Monday, October 27, 2025; depart Thursday, November 6, 2025.
• First nights in Tel Aviv to allow everyone to reach the hotel on their own from the airport within an hour of clearing customs. (Depending upon flights, hotel early check-in might be needed for some travelers.)
• In Tel Aviv: visit ANU Museum, Mechon Ayalon (1940s underground bullet factory), Rabin Museum, declaration of independence site ….
• Two nights in the north or south, with local touring, depending upon conditions.
• Six nights in Jerusalem, with day trips to sites like Dead Sea (boat ride), Massada, Ein Gedi; visit October 7 sites or memorials.
• Jerusalem may include: a cappella Shabbat dinner, Old City/Western Wall (kotel), yad vashem, Dead Sea Scrolls, National Library, Knesset, Supreme Court, Machane Yehuda….
• Other possibilities: yad b’yad school presentation or visit; volunteer opportunity; Tzfat; Jaffa; Blackout Restaurant….

Excited about visiting Israel? For me, Israel under pressure was as fulfilling and uplifting as ever, perhaps even more so because of how everyday life there proceeds apace despite it all: Weddings, births, a literature conference, full restaurants, traffic jams, new train lines, and so much more. Also, your presence will mean a lot to the Israelis and it will be enriching for you.

Mark your calendars for this unforgettable trip! Stay tuned for more details.