ITINERARY

Adat Shalom Generations Trip To Israel

Led by Rabbi Blair Nosanwisch

August 16-26, 2026

This journey through Israel is more than a tour—it’s a multi-generational B’nai Mitzvah experience rooted in connection, challenge, and personal growth that deepens bonds between generations.

We begin in Tel Aviv, a vibrant coastal city that offers a soft landing into Israeli life. It’s a space of energy and openness, where east meets west, and tradition blends with innovation. This dynamic setting sets the tone for discovery, curiosity, and fun.

We then ascend to Jerusalem, the heart and soul of the Jewish people. Here, ancient stones tell stories of generations, and spirituality is woven into every corner. As a community, we’ll explore our heritage and prepare for a shared B’nai Mitzvah celebration—marking a powerful moment of meaning, commitment, and pride.

Our journey concludes in the North, where the landscape opens up and invites connection. The Galilee’s natural beauty and outdoor adventures create space for reflection and bonding. The mystical city of Tzfat adds a spiritual dimension, reminding us of the power of joy, acceptance, and community.

By the end of this journey, we are no longer just fellow travelers—we are a tribe. Stronger. Closer. Transformed by shared experience, and with a deeper understanding of Israel, our community, and ourselves.

***Subject to Change — final itinerary will be confirmed closer to departure.

Adat Shalom Israel Adult Mission 2025

Led by Rabbi Aaron Bergman

October 20-29, 2025

Day 0 – Sunday, August 16, 2026: Arrival in Israel

Arrival at Ben Gurion Airport
Transfer to Tel Aviv hotel
Rest and welcome gathering
Dinner on your own

Overnight: Dan Panorama Hotel, Tel Aviv

Day 1 – Monday, August 17, 2026: Tel Aviv – Heritage and Innovation

Meet the guide and the driver
Old Jaffa Walking Tour - The ancient port city was the gateway to the Holy Land. We will walk through the ancient port, down the small alleyways visiting the artist colony and all the beautiful galleries. We’ll visit the enchanting flea market, where we might find a few bargains, have a fun scavenger hunt (with prizes, of course) and have an amazing overlook of the first Hebrew city of Israel: Tel Aviv.
Free time and lunch on your own at the Carmel Market - At Tel Aviv's most famous outdoor market, Carmel Market, get a "taste" of the multi-culturalism of Tel Aviv.
Peres Center for Peace and Innovation – The Peres Center for Peace and Innovation, founded in 1996 by the late President of Israel, Shimon Peres, develops and implements impactful and meaningful programs with a focus on promoting a prosperous Israel, nurturing and highlighting Israeli innovation, and paving the way for shared-living between all of Israel's citizens and lasting peace between Israel and its neighbors.
Hagal Sheli Bat Yam- unique, meaningful experience that combines personal growth with the power of the sea. Surfing Class
Free Time at the beaches
Meeting former Detroit shaliach Yiftach Leket - "how to deal with challenging topics," where we would do a teen group and an adult group, or mifgash with local teens.
Opening group dinner at a restaurant
Shlufta – An improv workshop that will knock you off your feet! This high-energy, laughter-filled experience uses improvisation games and creativity to break the ice, encourage self-expression, and build trust. It’s a fun and powerful way to bring everyone together, strengthen group dynamics, and create unforgettable shared moments.

Overnight: Dan Panorama Hotel, Tel Aviv

Day 2 – Tuesday, August 18, 2026: Along the Coastal Road

Breakfast at the hotel
Drive to Caesarea
Caesarea - Explore the ancient port city built by Herod the Great—where Roman history meets the beauty of the Mediterranean. Walk among impressive ruins, enjoy breathtaking sea views, and feel the layers of history come alive.
Snorkeling at Ancient Caesarea - Dive into history—literally! Explore the ancient underwater ruins of Herod’s harbor, snorkeling among columns, stones, and marine life in the clear waters of the Mediterranean. A one-of-a-kind blend of adventure and archaeology.
Drive to Emek Hefer
LET Travel’s Shopping Route - We will take a tour through Emek Hefer, farm-to-table dining and meet the local vendors. This incredible valley is close to the sea and is full of farm-to-table local and independent families and businesses that support the economy and is a window to the Israeli world famous hi-tech agriculture. Enjoy cheese farms, micro-breweries, organic farming, bakery and coffee shops and much more. Including cooking a picnic lunch together.
Tour a Kibbutz including a Photography Workshop - 'Telling Our Story'-In this unique outdoor experience, participants will discover how a smartphone can become more than just a tool for communication—it can be a lens for reflection. Through guided photography exercises, we’ll learn to slow down, observe nature, and capture the small, meaningful moments that tell our personal and collective story.
Dinner on your own

Overnight: Dan Panorama Hotel, Tel Aviv

Day 3 – Wednesday, August 19, 2026: Behind the Scenes: Heritage and Discovery

Breakfast at the hotel
Hotel checkout
Visit to United Hatzalah Jerusalem
Pitchon Lev - packing food parcels for families in need or volunteer in the fields and support local farmers
Machon Ayalon - Located in Rehovot. This place was originally created to fool the British into thinking it was a kibbutz during the British Mandate. In fact, it was a secret ammunition factory set up by the Jewish underground.
Neot Kedumim Biblical Cooking Workshop - Dive into a unique cooking experience inspired by ancient biblical times. Learn to prepare traditional dishes using ingredients mentioned in the Bible, all while surrounded by the natural beauty of the land.
Shehecheyanu - Celebrating your arrival at this holy city
Hotel check-in
Group Dinner at the hotel

Overnight: Dan Panorama Hotel, Jerusalem

Day 4 – Thursday, August 20, 2026: The Holy City of Jerusalem Bnei Mitzvah Day

Breakfast at the hotel
Bnei Mitzvah Ceremony at the Davidson Center
City of David – The place where the Jewish nation began their special relationship with the magical city of Jerusalem. Here we will walk in King David’s palace and enter the biblical version of a “water ride” through the pitch-black Hezekiah Tunnels, armed with our flashlights.
The Jewish Quarter – Visit the incredible holy sites like the Western Wall and the Hurva Synagogue as we walk through the narrow alleyways of the quarter. Leave the city through the Jaffa Gate and walk to Ben Yehuda Street.
Lunch: Machane Yehuda Market - Culinary Tour - At Israel’s most famous outdoor market, Machane Yehuda, where we’ll have a chance to taste delicacies of Jewish communities from around the globe! It will be the coolest way to have lunch!
Scavenger Hunt - You'll experience an immersive scavenger hunt through the the enchanting area of Nachla'ot. You will stroll down picturesque lanes, encountering a variety of Jewish communities. The Tour game takes you right through the middle of the bustling, colorful Jewish outdoor food market, Machane Yehuda.
Dinner on your own

Overnight: Dan Panorama Hotel, Jerusalem

Day 5 – Friday, August 21, 2026: Masada and the Dead Sea

Breakfast at the hotel
Drive to Masada
Masada by cable car - Ascend by cable car to the iconic mountaintop fortress of Masada. Explore this extraordinary archaeological site where King Herod built his desert palace and Jewish rebels made their last stand during the Great Revolt. Along the way, actors stationed around the site will bring the dramatic history to life, making the ancient stones speak through powerful storytelling.
Ein Bokek Hike - Hike through the stunning desert oasis of Ein Bokek, where waterfalls, wildlife, and lush vegetation surprise you at every turn. A perfect mix of nature, beauty, and a refreshing break in the heart of the desert.
Dead Sea Spa - Have a float at the Dead Sea, use the famous mud or just enjoy the outdoor pool at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, including lunch.
Kabbalat Shabbat at the western wall or Kabbalat Shabbat with Kehilat Tzion
Shabbat dinner at the hotel (lone soldiers will join dinner)

Overnight: Dan Panorama Hotel, Jerusalem

Day 6 – Saturday, August 22, 2026: Relaxed Shabbat in Jerusalem

Breakfast at the hotel
Tafila at a local synagogue
Lunch at the hotel
Old City Walking Tour - Discovering the significant sites at each quarter, including the Muslim Quarter (security permits) with the colorful Arab market, the Christian Quarter with the Church of the Holy Sepulcher and the Via Dolorosa
Back to the hotel
Havdalah (Shabbat ends at 7:53)
Dinner on your own

Overnight: Dan Panorama Hotel, Jerusalem

Day 7 – Sunday, August 23, 2026: Remembering and meeting friends on the way to the North

Breakfast at the hotel
Hotel checkout
Mt Herzl - Herzl Military Cemetery where Israel’s great leaders and bravest soldiers are buried, reflecting on the cost of preserving our way of life. This will be followed by an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour at Yad Vashem.
Yad Vashem - Holocaust Memorial: As the State of Israel and the Jewish people’s living memorial to the Holocaust, Yad Vashem safeguards the memory of the past and imparts its meaning for future generations. Established in 1953 as the world center for documentation, research, education, and commemoration of the Holocaust, Yad Vashem is today a dynamic and vital place of intergenerational and international encounter.
Younger Children - Visit the Aquarium or walk to the Zoo
Lunch on the way on your own
Drive North Jezreel valley
Visit Kibbutz Hanaton - visit the Mikvah. Take a wine tour at a local vineyard in the Jezreel Valley
Hotel check-in
Dinner at the hotel

Overnight: Kibbutz Lavi Hotel - North

Day 8 – Monday, August 24, 2026: The Spiritual North

Breakfast at the hotel
Tzfat - The colorful city of Tzfat, visiting the old city, the famous Kabbalah synagogues and the artist quarter. We will even have an opportunity to meet with a Kabbalah artist and understand the idea of Kabbalah through his works.
Lunch on your own at Tzfat
"Mifgash" with Combat IDF soldiers in the field - Take the opportunity to meet with IDF combat soldiers in the field near the Lebanese border. Experiencing first-hand what it's like living the life of an Israeli soldier. In addition, we will tour the kibbutz and see great panoramic views of Israel's beautiful North. It is accepted and customary but not required, to bring gifts to soldiers.
Rafting Adventure on the Jordan River - A refreshing Israeli style kayaking experience down the beautifully clear Hatzbani stream, later merging with the Baniyas stream to create the Jordan River, includes a fun little water rapid.
Dinner at the hotel
Bonfire Gathering - End the day with a warm and relaxed bonfire under the stars - meaningful time together in the peaceful atmosphere of the kibbutz.

Overnight: Kibbutz Lavi Hotel - North

Day 9 – Tuesday, August 25, 2026: Between Borders and Beauty: Discovering the North

Breakfast at the hotel
Hike at Baniyas (Hermon Stream) Visit to a Former Syrian Bunker - scenic nature walk along the Baniyas stream offers time to connect, reflect, and enjoy meaningful conversations. As we navigate small natural obstacles together, we strengthen bonds and discover history
Druze meal – We will enjoy a traditional Druze lunch in a Druze village.
Geopolitical Jeep ride - We will ride on 4WD jeep with a security expert and a member of a local Kibbutz. We will drive along the Syrian border passing all the important army posts that overlook Syria. Our knowledgeable guides will explain the current situation in Syria and the new challenges that the IDF border security and the local community need to face. After, we will stop for an amazing view of Mt. Hermon and the Valley of Tears.
Drive back to the hotel
Farewell Dinner in a special location

Overnight: Kibbutz Lavi Hotel - North

Day 10 – Wednesday, August 26, 2026: Remembering and Farewell option for partnership

Breakfast at the hotel
Hotel checkout
On the way to the airport
Derech Hatavlinim – We’ll visit Derech Hatavlinim (The Spice Way) in Beit Lechem Haglilit for a sensory and educational experience. Surrounded by fragrant herbs and healing plants, we’ll learn about the natural bounty of the land and its traditional uses. The visit will include a hands-on workshop to create your own blend of authentic Israeli spices — a meaningful and aromatic way to conclude our journey.
Drive through Haifa & Bahai Gardens Viewpoint - We’ll pass through the vibrant city of Haifa and stop for a scenic overlook of the breathtaking Bahai Gardens — a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Israel’s most iconic and peaceful landmarks.
Final Dip in the Mediterranean - We’ll end our journey with a refreshing swim in the Mediterranean Sea at a beautiful beach equipped with showers and full facilities — a relaxing and symbolic way to close our time together in Israel.
On the way to the airport, we’ll pause for a meaningful moment together. We'll stop at one of the beautiful spots along the route to share a communal prayer and reflection—a chance to absorb the journey’s meaning and carry its spirit home with us
Departure