Gesher Israel Cost & FAQ

This summer, we are thrilled to be offering our teen Israel trip at an amazing cost thanks to the assistance of RootOne, which is seeded through the generosity of The Marcus Foundation, and powered by The Jewish Education Project.

With limited number of "vouchers" for our Israel trip, we are encouraging all applicants to apply early and secure their spots.

DEFINITELY! Gesher Israel is an amazing 3.5 week Israel experience for applicants from any camp or denomination who are interested in experiencing Israel in a pluralist Jewish environment.

This summer, Gesher Israel is only $3,000 including roundtrip airfare between New York and Israel!

Yes! We have a number of scholarship opportunities and would be happy to discuss them further when you apply.

We know that everyone is different when it comes to packing. We recommend each participant brings only one suitcase or rolling duffel bag, in addition to a backpack for day trips and hikes. The following items are mandatory to pack:

Hiking Boots (“high-top” boots that are light, comfortable and already worn in!) Do not feel the need to break the bank. A basic hiking shoe providing more support than a sneaker is necessary for the hiking and physical activity. Crocs are NOT acceptable for any sort of hiking.

Canteen/water bottle holder (plastic only — metal gets too hot). It should hold at least three liters of water. CamelBak-types are highly recommended by past participants for their ease of use on hikes.

Hats (2) You will be required to wear a hat on every hike. Therefore, hats should be comfortable and should provide sun protection. While baseball hats are acceptable, hats which cover the entire head and ears are most protective from the powerful sun. Visors are not acceptable.

Bath Towel

Sleeping bag (small enough to fit inside your luggage). All you need is a standard sleeping bag, not one for any severe weather condition. Don’t forget to write your name on the outside of the bag.

Pair of shoes that can be worn in water (Tevas have been highly recommended) that have straps or laces, and that won’t fall off easily. You will wear these on river walks, rocky beaches, etc. Flip-flops and Crocs are NOT acceptable. Old sneakers are also OK.

Some form of identification with name, address, and photo. Since you won’t be carrying your passport with you, it is important to have some form of ID. While this can be a school ID or a driver’s license, a school picture with your name, home address, and telephone number written on the back is also acceptable.

Double supply of any medication you will need

Extra pair of prescription glasses (and an extra prescription)

Insect repellent

Laundry will be picked up by a laundry service and returned within 24 hours – washed, dried, and folded. The amount of times laundry will be done is determined by each group and their counselors. On average, it is about 2-4 times over the course of 3.5 weeks. It is mandatory to label clothing, and we discourage bringing clothing that requires delicate care.

The cost of laundry is not included in the program tuition cost and is the responsibility of each participant. Participants should bring approximately $40 for laundry in addition to their spending money.

As a reminder, Young Judaea is not responsible for losses and/or damages to any personal property under any circumstance.

The entire Gesher Israel group will travel together on one group flight from the New York area to Israel. The flight will be staffed by Young Judaea representatives and counselors to help ensure a smooth check-in and flight experience.

Nearly all of the food provided by Gesher Israel is through catering companies, hostels and accomodations, and restaurants, and as such, Young Judaea cannot commit to verifying the ingredients and preparation of all meals. We have extensive experience in working to help participants navigate a food allergy or dietary restriction,  but we cannot take responsibility for individual food allergies or ensure that food requests will be fulfilled. Participants and their families are requested to do the following prior to the trip:

Inform enrollment staff about any allergies or dietary restrictions

Make a plan with the participant regarding how to respond to situations where it may not be possible to confirm ingredients

Have the appropriate medication or treatment on hand while traveling with Young Judaea

Since the beginning of this pandemic, we have been in constant communication with the Ministry of Health, Home Front Command, and other health and education entities responsible for providing oversight and directives. Whatever rules or guidelines any Israeli institution is required to do, Young Judaea follows them. Each new instruction is explained clearly to participants and the staff entrusted with their care.

There are no trip providers who can give you a 100% guarantee that their program will run as planned this fall – it would be irresponsible to do so, particularly given the fluidity of the ongoing situation.

With that being said, we believe and are confident that Gesher Israel 2021 will run as planned, perhaps with a few modifications if necessary.