Bnei Mitzvah Family Trip to Israel 2026

When is the trip?  
It will begin in Israel on Monday, December 21, 2026 and run through the evening of Tuesday, December 29, 2026. 

For whom is the trip appropriate?   
The trip is geared toward PAS members with children ages 12–14 and their siblings. First-timers as well as returning travelers are encouraged to join us.  

How much will the trip cost?  
The land costs in Israel (all expenses except for flights) are $6,995 per person. Pricing information for single occupancy rooms and additional details are available on the J2 registration page. 

Who is our travel partner?
PAS will be partnering with J2.  

What is the itinerary?
While the itinerary is still subject to change, it can be found here along with the optio to register for the trip. 
 
Will we be flying together, and if not, which flights does PAS recommend? 
We will NOT be flying together. Everyone should plan to arrive in Israel by early afternoon on Monday, December 21, 2026. Following the end of the trip, the earliest return flight you could book to New York would be in the late evening of Tuesday, December 29, 2026. 
 
What do I need to know about passports?
Make sure your passports are up to date – they must be valid for at least six months after the final day of the trip.   

May we arrive early?
You are welcome to fly to Israel at any time as long as you arrange to meet the group at the airport or in Tel Aviv (location TBD) on Monday, December 21, 2026. J2, our travel partner, would be more than happy to help you make pre-trip arrangements. 
 
What is the weather like in Israel in December?
Temperatures will range from the 40s to the 50s. Participants should pack layers and expect rain.   
 
Will PAS provide a ‘suggested’ packing list?
A recommended packing list will be provided closer to departure.   
 
What if a family member has food allergies?
We have experience dealing with food allergies on PAS trips. J2, our tour provider, will do its best to accommodate all dietary needs. Please note that many foods in Israel include nuts and sesame.    

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 issues. To discuss your concerns, please email Rabbi Solmsen or call him at 212-369-2600 x136.   

Will there be free time on the trip? 
While there will be some opportunities to shop, grab coffee, and enjoy the sights and sounds, we encourage you to come early or stay after the trip ends if you would like extended time with family and friends in Israel.

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 and after 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. Trips are preceded by gatherings and followed by reunions to continue the conversation after we have returned home, and to share our experiences and learning with the rest of our community.  

How do I register?
While the itinerary is still subject to change, registration can be found here. 

Should I get travel insurance?
Park Avenue Synagogue urges participants to purchase travel insurance that covers airfare, ground costs, and medical expenses (ideally, “cancel for any reason” coverage). In most cases, travel insurance must be purchased within two weeks of making the trip deposit. 

PAS works closely with Traveland, which provides comprehensive travel insurance. For more information, call 203-814-3556 or email [email protected].  
  
If you do not purchase travel insurance and you cancel at the last minute, have significant medical issues while abroad, or the trip is cancelled, you will be responsible for related expenses.  
 
Are need-based scholarships available?
Yes. Please register and email Valerie Russo or call her at 212-369-2600 x106 to be considered.