Join Rabbi Zuckerman, Rabbi Solmsen (our new Director of Congregational Education), and other members of the PAS community for a family Bnei Mitzvah trip to Israel this December. This program is geared toward PAS families with children ages 11–14 and their siblings. The trip is currently full – fill out this form to be placed on the waiting list for the trip.
Travel Is Back at PAS!
Hear Rabbi Zuckerman and other members of the PAS community discuss our planned for a family Bnei Mitzvah trip to Israel this December! Chaired by Kim Molstre, Melissa Raskin, and Tamara Stark, this program is geared toward PAS families with children ages 11–14. Watch the information session that took place on March 1 to learn more.
Don’t miss this special opportunity to discover Israel with other families and partake in a moving Bnei Mitzvah ceremony in Jerusalem. It’s a wonderful opportunity for both first-time and return visitors to Israel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Trip Overview
When is the trip?
The trip will depart New York on Thursday, December 22 and arrive in Israel on Friday December 23. The trip will conclude on Saturday night December 31. We will depart Israel in the early morning hours of January 1, arriving in NYC during the day on January 1.
For whom is the trip appropriate?
The trip is geared toward PAS members with children ages 11–14 (either preceding or following their Bnei Mitzvah experience), and their siblings and parents; grandparents welcomed. First-timers and returning travelers are welcome.
Will there be a Bnei Mitzvah Service?
Yes! The service is a very special part of our trip. All children ages 12–14 will be invited to participate.
Logistics
Who is our travel partner?
After a robust selection process, PAS has partnered with J2 Adventures. If you have questions about registration, you can contact J2 directly.
Will we be flying together and if not, what flights does PAS recommend?
We will not be flying as a group together. American, Delta, El Al and United all have flights daily. Everyone should plan to arrive by early afternoon on Friday December 23.
What do I need to know about passports?
Now is the time to make sure your passports are up to date. Remember to make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after the final day of the trip to ensure smooth and easy travel.
May we arrive early?
You are welcome to fly to Israel at any time, as long as you arrange to either meet the group at the Hilton Hotel in Tel Aviv in time for Shabbat dinner on December 23.
What is the weather like in Israel in December?
Temperatures will range from moderate to cold, and the winter is Israel’s rainy season. We encourage you to bring layers.
Will PAS provide a “suggested” packing list?
Yes, a recommended packing list will be provided closer to departure. Plan on bringing layers for warmth and easy-to-tote rain gear.
What if a family member has food allergies?
We have experience dealing with food allergies on PAS trips. Please note any allergies on your registration form. J2 Adventures will do their very best to accommodate your dietary needs. Please note that many foods in Israel include nuts and sesame. Again, we will work with every family and participant to create the best possible experience for you.
What if a family member has special needs?
Inclusion is an important value of PAS. Please note any accommodation requests on your registration form. We will do our best to accommodate your needs and will be in touch if there are any issues. We will begin working with families and participants as soon as possible to create the best experience for everyone. To discuss your concerns, please contact Rabbi Neil Zuckerman at nzuckerman@pasyn.org or 212-369-2600 x124.
Will there be any free time for shopping and seeing family or friends?
The itinerary is chock-full of important sites and experiences, and there is also some free time in each one. While there are some opportunities to shop, grab a coffee, and enjoy the sights and sounds of Israel, if you would like extended time with family and friends, we encourage you to come ahead or stay after the trip.
When will the itineraries be available?
The draft itineraries are available online. It is important to note that these are drafts and that they are subject to change at any time. Updated drafts will be posted online and shared with participants at pre-trip gatherings before our departure.
Will I be able to meet other people who are going on the trip before we leave?
PAS gives as much attention to gatherings, education, and community-building before the trip as it does to the journey itself. A pillar of our PAS travel philosophy is that a trip is just one part of our larger communal learning experience. Our trips are preceded by pre-trip gatherings and followed up with gatherings and reunions to continue the conversation long after we have returned home, and to share our experiences and learning with the rest of our community.
Registration Information
Registration will be open from March 1–March 31. Please register using this form.
Is a deposit required upon registration?
No deposit is required. Full payment is due 90 days before the trip begins.
What is the cancelation policy?
Cancelations made 89–46 days prior to departure will receive a 50-percent refund. Cancelations made fewer than 46 days prior to departure will not receive a refund.
Should I get travel insurance?
Yes, we strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance. It is important to note that some insurance programs provide more comprehensive coverage when the policy is purchased in proximity to your initial trip deposit.
Are need-based scholarships available?
Yes. Please register through J2 and then speak with Valerie Russo at vrusso@pasyn.org or 212-369-2600 x106 to be considered for a need-based scholarship.
Trip Leadership
Which members of the clergy and staff are going?
Rabbi Zuckerman and Rabbi Solmsen will be leading the trip and additional PAS staff will be announced shortly. There will be two PAS clergy/staff members per bus.
Who are the lay leaders who have been involved in planning the trip?
The Trip Chairs are Kim Molstre, Melissa Raskin, and Tamara Stark.
More Information
Whom do I contact with questions about the trip?
Please contact J2 Customer Service. At PAS, please contact Rabbi Solmsen at bsolmsen@pasyn.org or 212-369-2600 x124.