Travel > Cuba
Jewish Cuba: A Tapestry of CulturesDates: January 26 - February 2, 2027
Prices (in US dollars):
- $4,795 per person (based on double occupancy)
- $975 single supplement
From the resilience of Havana’s Jewish community to the beauty of its streets pulsing with music, memory, and life, this journey offers a rare opportunity to explore Cuba through a deeply personal and meaningful lens.
Celebrate a soulful Shabbat with Havana’s Jewish community, where prayers are filled with hope and tradition lives on against all odds. Wander through the cobbled plazas of Old Havana, alive with music and memory. Step inside Hemingway’s hilltop home, where pages and personal treasures remain untouched by time. Cruise the Malecón in a classic convertible, sea breeze in your hair and history at every turn. Along the way, engage in intimate conversations with the voices shaping Cuba today including professors, scholars, artists, and a former diplomat who will open windows into a Cuba few visitors ever truly see.
Space is limited. Don’t miss this powerful, inspiring, and beautifully curated experience. Come with us, Cuba is waiting…
Highlights:
- Connect with Cuba’s Jewish community visiting Beth Shalom Temple and the Sephardic Hebrew Center, meet with local Jewish leaders, and learn how a small but resilient community continues to thrive today.
- Honor Jewish memory with a visit to the Jewish Cemetery in Guanabacoa and its moving Holocaust Memorial, offering a powerful moment of reflection on shared history and legacy.
- Celebrate an unforgettable Shabbat with an inspirational and moving Friday night service with the local community, then gather for a festive dinner filled with warmth, tradition, and connection.
- Walk the streets of old Havana, exploring the historic plazas of Habana Vieja, where colonial architecture, street music, and daily life come together in one of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods.
- Visit Hemingway’s Cuba exploring Finca Vigía, his beloved home, and learn how Cuba shaped his life, work, and legacy.
- Ride through history in a classic convertible, cruising through Havana in a vintage American car, taking in the Forest of Havana, 5th Avenue, and the legendary Malecón.
- Guided by a deeply personal story, you’ll visit a local private home and a vibrant neighborhood market for an intimate glimpse into the heart, rhythm, and quiet resilience of everyday life in Havana.
- Experience Cuba’s creative spirit from the vibrant mosaics of Fusterlandia to the powerful performance of Compás Dance of Cuba, discover how art, rhythm, and resilience shape the Cuban soul.
- Learn from remarkable voices engaging in thought-provoking conversations with local scholars and cultural leaders, including Professor Alberto Faya, Dr. Marta Núñez Sarmiento, and former Cuban diplomat Camilo López Trigo, offering insight into Cuban identity, diplomacy, and music.
For the itinerary, FAQs and other details, please see the tabs below. On a mobile device, use the menu icon (☰) to open other tabs.
- Photo: Skyline of Havana, Cuba © Sean Pavone, Adobe
Jewish Cuba: A Tapestry of Cultures
January 26 - February 2, 2027
(Itinerary - subject to change)Tuesday, January 26, 2027 – Welcome to Miami
Hotel Check-In - Arrive and check-in at our group hotel. You’ll have some time to get settled and relax before we begin.
Welcome Gathering - In the late afternoon, we’ll come together for a short welcome session. This will be a chance to meet the group, go over the plan for the days ahead, and break the ice with a few light introductions.
Group Transfer & Opening Dinner - From there, we’ll head out together for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant; a relaxed and meaningful chance to connect, share a meal, and ease into the experience ahead.
Overnight: Miami
Wednesday, January 27, 2027 - Arrival in Havana
Transfer to Miami International Airport - We’ll depart the hotel as a group and head to the airport for our flight to Havana.
Arrival in Havana - After landing and clearing customs and immigration, we’ll begin our introduction to Cuba.
Lunch at Atelier - We’ll enjoy our first taste of Havana at Atelier, a privately owned paladar known for its creative Cuban cuisine and welcoming atmosphere.
Visit to Revolution Square - After lunch, we’ll visit Plaza de la Revolución, an iconic site of Cuban political history and national pride, featuring famous monuments and murals.
Panoramic Tour of Havana - We’ll take a scenic drive through the city to get our bearings and soak in Havana’s energy. From colonial architecture to colorful street life, it’s the perfect way to begin taking it all in.
Check-In at the hotel - As we drive, we’ll take in the sights of Havana’s vibrant neighborhoods, classic American cars cruising by, kids playing in the streets, and everyday life unfolding all around.
Dinner and evening at leisure.
Overnight: Havana
Thursday, January 28, 2027 - Exploring Jewish Life & The Heart of Havana
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before we begin a day full of learning, culture, and connection.
We’ll begin the day with a discussion led by Camilo López Trigo, a former Cuban diplomat, who will share insights into U.S.- Cuba relations and help frame our understanding of the island’s recent history and global relationships.
We’ll visit Havana’s main Jewish community center and synagogue, Beth Shalom Temple (El Patronato) to meet with local leaders and learn about Jewish life in Cuba today. We’ll also deliver our group’s donations to support their ongoing efforts.
Lunch at Cha Cha Cha - A lively and well-loved paladar, this Havana favorite offers a delicious mix of Cuban flavors and warm hospitality.
Old Havana Walking Tour - Continue exploring the heart of Habana Vieja with visits to the remaining two historic plazas, Plaza Vieja and Plaza de la Catedral. Along the way, you’ll see beautifully restored colonial architecture, street art, and daily life unfolding in the city’s most iconic district.
Mureleando Arts Project - We’ll head to the neighborhood of Lawton to visit Mureleando, a grassroots community arts project that uses murals, sculpture, and performance to inspire creativity and build pride among children and adults alike.
Dinner at Leisure - the evening is yours to explore local restaurants or relax at the hotel. We’re happy to share recommendations for those who’d like them!
Overnight: Havana
Friday, January 29, 2027 – Hemingway, Havana, and Shabbat
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before setting off on a day filled with culture, history, and celebration.
We’ll begin our day with a visit to Finca Vigía, Ernest Hemingway’s beloved home just outside Havana. Explore the house, grounds, and view his iconic boat, Pilar, along with personal artifacts that reflect his deep connection to Cuba and its people.
Next, we return to the heart of Habana Vieja to explore two of the city’s oldest and most charming squares: Plaza de Armas and Plaza de San Francisco. Along the way, we’ll admire Havana’s European-influenced architecture and catch glimpses of daily life as locals go about their routines.
Take time to enjoy lunch at leisure, whether you're in the mood for a cozy café or a lively paladar, we’ll be happy to offer suggestions.
In the afternoon, step into a classic American convertible for a vintage panoramic car ride through Havana’s iconic neighborhoods. En route, we’ll pass the lush Forest of Havana, the stately homes along 5th Avenue, and cruise the Malecón, Havana’s famed waterfront promenade.
After freshening up, we’ll head to Beth Shalom Temple to join the local community for Friday night services, sharing in a meaningful and heartfelt start to Shabbat in Havana.
After services, enjoy a festive Shabbat dinner together at a nearby hotel, sharing reflections, stories, and a sense of connection as we welcome Shabbat in Havana.
After dinner, we’ll return to the hotel to rest and recharge.
Overnight: Havana
Saturday, January 30, 2027 – Learning, Music, and Leisure
We’ll begin the day with breakfast at the hotel, followed by a 10:00 AM study session with the extraordinary Professor Alberto Faya, a Cuban singer, composer, and scholar whose passion for music and culture is both deep and inspiring. He’ll trace Cuban music’s roots, from Spain and Africa to jazz and beyond, offering a rare glimpse into Cuba through the voice of a master storyteller.
Next, we’ll come together for a reflection session, an opportunity to pause and share thoughts, impressions, and takeaways from our journey so far.
We’ll then gather for a relaxing and delicious Shabbat lunch; a time to unwind, connect, and enjoy a wonderful meal together.
In the early afternoon, we’ll join local musicians for an unforgettable exploration of Cuban music, with its rhythms, stories, and soul. Through lively conversation, live performance, and a joyful dance lesson, we’ll feel the beat that pulses through Havana.
The remainder of the afternoon and evening is at leisure. Feel free to rest, explore, or revisit a favorite part of the city. We’ll offer suggestions for those looking for optional activities or dining spots.
Overnight: Havana
Sunday, January 31, 2027 – Art, Memory, and Everyday Life
We’ll start the day with breakfast at the hotel before heading out for a private tour of the National Museum of Fine Arts. Led by a curator, this special visit will guide us through Cuba’s artistic evolution, offering insight into the island’s history, identity, and creativity through its visual art.
Next, we’ll visit the Jewish Cemetery in Guanabacoa, including its moving Holocaust Memorial, a quiet moment to reflect on memory, loss, and resilience.
From there, we’ll be welcomed into a private Cuban home with deep Jewish roots for an intimate glimpse into daily life. Through personal stories and heartfelt conversation, we’ll better understand how families adapt and thrive in today’s Cuba
Lunch will be at leisure, feel free to explore and choose a spot that suits your taste. We’ll be happy to offer suggestions.
In the afternoon, we’ll visit the Hotel Nacional de Cuba, a Havana icon that offers a window into the island’s glamorous past and storied political history.
Dinner this evening is at leisure, whether you choose something casual or celebratory, the night is yours to enjoy.
Overnight: Havana
Monday, February 1, 2027 – Identity, Art, and Celebration
We’ll begin our day at 9:00 AM with an interactive discussion led by Dr. Marta Núñez Sarmiento, a renowned Cuban sociologist. Together, we’ll explore gender roles in Cuban society today, an eye-opening look at how culture, politics, and daily life intersect in contemporary Cuba.
Next, we’ll head out to visit the Sephardic Hebrew Center, the last remaining Sephardic synagogue in Havana. This is a chance to learn about the rich legacy and continued presence of the Jewish community in Cuba.
From there, we’ll dive into the rhythms of daily life with a guided walk through a local market, where you can interact with vendors, observe local customs, and experience Havana through its flavors, colors, and conversations.
Lunch today is at leisure, feel free to explore or revisit a favorite spot.
Afterward, we’ll head to Compás Dance of Cuba to observe a rehearsal that blends percussion, African rhythms, flamenco, and classical ballet. Following the performance, we’ll have a chance to speak with the dancers about their work, inspiration, and the role of art in Cuban life.
Later in the afternoon, we’ll visit Fusterlandia, the imaginative home and studio of artist José Rodríguez Fuster. Located in the seaside community of Jaimanitas, this colorful mosaic wonderland is a joyful tribute to creativity and community transformation.
We’ll close our journey with a farewell dinner at La Reserva, a beautiful private paladar, offering a chance to reflect, share memories, and toast to the unforgettable experience we’ve shared in Cuba.
Overnight: Havana
Tuesday, February 2, 2027 - Farewell
We’ll enjoy one last breakfast together at the hotel before transferring to the airport for our flights home.
As we part ways, we’ll carry with us the memories, connections, and stories that made this journey to Cuba so meaningful. Safe travels and until next time!
The Melton tour to Cuba will be led by Miriam Levinson, who has led numerous trips to her native Cuba. Miriam's expertise in Jewish Latin America, particularly Cuba, adds a distinctive dimension to her portrayal of these communities.
Melton Travel is open to adults of all ages. While Melton oversees the educational aspects of our tours, it's important to note that we are not a travel agency. For the logistics of this trip, our local travel partners will be responsible.
Please note that Melton is not liable for any financial loss due to reasons beyond our control, such as health-related cancellations. We highly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance covering trip cancellation and health-related issues, including COVID, within a few weeks of paying your nonrefundable deposit.
Thank you for your interest in travelling with Melton. We eagerly await the opportunity to learn and explore together with you.
The Melton Travel Team
Includes:
- 7 nights' accommodations / 6 days of touring
- Deluxe air-conditioned bus
- 7 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 3 dinners
- All tips (except for housekeeping)
- All educational programming and entrance fees according to the itinerary
- Visa fees
- Flights from Miami to Havana (return)
Hotels:
Miami: Sonesta Miami Airport Hotel. 950 NW Le Jeune Road, Miami, FL 33126. Tel: +1.305.446.9000
Havana: Iberostar Marqués de la Torre. entre Virtudes y, Zulueta, Ánimas, La Habana 10400, Cuba. Tel: +53.7.868.1800
Note: We will do our best to assist you with extensions both before and after the seminar.
Not Included:
- Flights and personal insurance
- Personal expenses, including meals or drinks not mentioned in the itinerary, unless specified
A non-refundable deposit of $850 is due upon registration. If the trip is cancelled, the registration fee will be refunded.
Group rates are per person and a minimum of 15 fully paying participants.
The final balance will be due by November 17, 2026. All cancellations must be submitted in writing. After November 17, 2026, there will be no refunds, nor will there be refunds for unused services. Please purchase travel insurance within 21 days (about 3 weeks) of making this deposit. Includes:
- Meals are included as indicated in the itinerary.
- A Melton educator will be with the group throughout the tour.
- All gratuities are included.
Activity level: Participants should be comfortable getting on and off a bus multiple times a day, as well as walking and standing during site visits. Some days may be more physically demanding than others. If a day’s activities are too challenging, our staff and educators will do their best to arrange for the traveler to stay with the driver, relax at a nearby café, or arrange for a taxi, with costs covered individually.
Baggage: Melton shall not be held responsible for any damage to or loss of luggage/personal items. All damage/loss must be reported at time of incident and documented in writing by local authorities for submission to the insurance company. Regarding airline baggage allowance, different carriers have different regulations for business and coach, please check with your individual carrier about permitted number of pieces, weights, and dimensions. Melton is not responsible for fees levied by any air carrier for the transport of personal belongings of any kind.
Not Included:
- Flights and personal insurance
- Personal expenses, including meals or drinks not mentioned in the itinerary, unless specified
Melton Travel recommends Forbes Advisor for the most up-to-date travel insurance comparisons. Consider travel protection for:
- Trip Cancellation
- Trip Interruption
- Emergency Medical Expenses
- Emergency Evacuation/Repatriation of Remains
- Trip Delay
- Baggage & Personal Effects
- Baggage Delay
Please Note: To be eligible for the waiver of pre-existing medical condition exclusion, the protection plan must be purchased within 21 days from the time you make your initial trip deposit, the entire non-refundable amount of the trip must be insured, and you must be medically able to travel at the time the premium is paid. However, the travel protection plan itself can be purchased any time prior to departure.
Additional Information
- Airline Security Measures: Your name must match the name on your tour reservation and airline ticket, or you may be denied boarding. If you are traveling from an airport outside the jurisdiction of the U.S., you will need to determine what travel documentation and identification are required for that particular airport.
- Due to heightened security regulations, certain items such as a metal nail file, pocketknife, cigarette lighter or tweezers, and some liquid, gel, or aerosol items may not be permitted in your carry-on luggage. Please call your airline prior to departure to obtain current information on non-permissible carry-on items and recommended airport check-in times. You may also wish to visit the Transportation Security Administration website at www.tsa.gov to obtain more information on acceptable identity documentation and prohibited luggage items.
- Holidays and Museum Closures - Museum visits and personal shopping time may be disrupted due to unforeseen circumstances or state and local holidays observed in the destinations being visited.
- Photography During Tours: We will occasionally use photographs taken by fellow guests or your trip director for promotional purposes. If you prefer your photo not used in any marketing activities, please notify us at the start of your tour.
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Frequently Asked Questions ...IS THIS TRIP RIGHT FOR ME?
Who are these trips for?
Our programs are designed for adult travelers who enjoy meaningful learning, cultural exploration, and engaging with fellow travelers. We welcome individuals, couples, friends, and multi-generational families traveling with adult children or grandchildren.
Our journeys are thoughtfully paced to balance learning, exploration, and free time, making them comfortable and rewarding for a wide range of travelers.
Participants must be 18 years of age or older.
What is the average age of participants?
Every trip is a little different, and the mix of travelers varies by destination and itinerary. Our groups bring together adults with a shared passion for learning, cultural exploration, and meaningful travel. Whether you're traveling on your own, with a partner, with friends, or as part of a multi-generational family, you'll find a welcoming community of fellow travelers who are curious, engaged, and eager to connect.
Can I join the trip as a solo traveler?
Yes. Many participants travel solo and pay a single supplement for a private room.Is this trip suitable for families?
While family members are welcome to travel together, our itineraries are not designed for children or family-focused travel. All participants must be 18 years of age or older and comfortable with the pace and structure of the itinerary.
Can teenagers participate?
Our programs are not designed for teenagers.
What level of physical activity is required?
Participants should be comfortable getting on and off a coach multiple times a day, as well as walking and standing during site visits. Some days may be more active depending on the itinerary and terrain.
If a particular activity is too challenging, our staff will do their best to assist with alternatives such as resting at a nearby location or arranging local transport to join the group, where possible.
If you have mobility concerns, we encourage you to contact us before registering so we can advise on suitability.
ABOUT MELTON WORLD TRAVEL
Why should I travel with Melton World Travel?
Our journeys are led by experienced educators and local experts who bring depth, context, and perspective to each destination. Through guided exploration, learning sessions, discussions, and meaningful encounters with local residents, travelers gain a deeper understanding of the places they visit.
We go beyond landmarks to include conversations with local communities, visits to cultural institutions, and opportunities to hear firsthand stories that bring each destination to life.
Each itinerary is thoughtfully designed to balance iconic sites, immersive learning, authentic local experiences, and time to explore independently, creating a travel experience that is both enriching and rewarding.
What makes Melton World Travel different?
Melton World Travel combines immersive travel with structured, meaningful learning. Every journey is led by a trained Jewish educator and a historian, working alongside outstanding local guides and experts to provide rich historical context, multiple perspectives, and a deeper understanding of the history, culture, and contemporary life of each destination.
Our journeys begin long before departure. Travelers are invited to participate in online pre-travel learning, an informational orientation, and a meet-and-greet with fellow participants, building knowledge, community, and anticipation before setting foot on the plane.
To enrich the experience before and during the journey, travelers receive a comprehensive source guide filled with maps, timelines, articles, literature, recipes, and other resources that bring each destination to life. While traveling, participants also use an on-site primary source reader, allowing them to engage directly with historical documents and voices at the places where history unfolded.
We focus on small-to-medium group sizes, carefully curated itineraries, and meaningful encounters with local communities and individuals that go beyond sightseeing. The result is a thoughtful, engaging travel experience that combines learning, conversation, cultural immersion, and personal discovery -one that begins before you leave home and continues long after you return.
What is Melton School?
The Melton School of Adult Jewish Learning is an international organization dedicated to meaningful learning, lifelong engagement, and exploring Jewish history, culture, and ideas.
Melton Travel builds on this educational foundation by combining travel with learning, creating immersive experiences that explore Jewish history, culture, communities, and the broader stories and places that have shaped them.
Our journeys are open to everyone. You do not need to be a Melton student or have prior Jewish knowledge to participate. We warmly welcome curious travelers from all backgrounds who enjoy learning, meaningful travel, and engaging with history, culture, and diverse communities.
BOOKINGS, PAYMENTS & POLICIES
How much is the deposit and when is final payment due?
A deposit is required to reserve your place on the trip. Deposit amounts vary by program and are listed on the individual trip page.What is your cancellation policy?
A non-refundable deposit is required to reserve your place on the trip.Final payment due dates vary according to the trip and are clearly stipulated in the trip terms and conditions. Once final payment has been made, no refunds can be issued for cancellations, regardless of the reason.
All cancellations must be submitted in writing. We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance to protect against unforeseen circumstances that may require you to cancel your trip.
In the unlikely event that Melton World Travel cancels a trip, participants will receive a full refund of all payments made to Melton World Travel.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes. We strongly recommend that all travelers purchase comprehensive travel insurance shortly after registering for a trip.
Trip deposits are non-refundable, and once the final payment deadline has passed, we are unable to issue refunds. Travel insurance can help protect you from financial loss due to covered events such as illness, injury, family emergencies, trip interruption, or other unexpected circumstances.
If you need to file a claim, our team will provide the documentation and supporting information required by your insurance provider to help make the process as smooth as possible.
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking as early as possible. Each program requires a minimum of 15 participants in order to operate, and departures are confirmed once this threshold is reached.
Early registration helps secure your place and allows us to plan and confirm departures in a timely way.
Availability is limited and may vary by program, so we encourage travelers to register once they have decided on a trip.
What is included in the trip price?
Every Melton World Travel journey is thoughtfully designed to provide a rich, seamless, and educational travel experience. While specific inclusions may differ slightly by destination, you can generally expect your trip to include accommodation, ground transportation, expert local guides, entrance fees, gratuities, and various meals.Your journey also includes a robust educational program featuring pre-travel learning, an informational orientation, a comprehensive source guide, an on-site primary source reader, and the guidance of a trained Jewish educator and historian throughout the trip.
In addition, you'll enjoy daily breakfasts, welcome and farewell group dinners, reflection sessions, educational discussions throughout the journey, and meaningful opportunities to connect with fellow travelers. Individual trip pages provide complete details about the inclusions for each itinerary.
What is not included in the trip price?
Unless specifically listed as included on the trip page, travelers are responsible for all additional expenses. These may include, but are not limited to:- International and domestic airfare
- Travel insurance
- Passport and visa fees
- Airport transfers not specified in the itinerary
- Meals and beverages not listed as included
- Personal expenses, such as laundry, telephone charges, and room service
- Optional excursions and activities
- Excess baggage fees
- Medical expenses
- Transportation arranged outside of the group itinerary
- Costs associated with arriving early, departing late, or extending your stay
- Any expenses resulting from flight delays, cancellations, missed connections, weather events, illness, or other circumstances beyond our control
We encourage travelers to review the trip page carefully, as inclusions and exclusions may vary by program.
PREPARING FOR YOUR TRIP
Do I need a visa?
Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality, destination, and, in some cases, the countries through which you transit. Travelers are responsible for determining and obtaining any required visas and travel documents before departure.
We recommend checking the requirements with the appropriate embassy or consulate well in advance of your trip. If you have questions or are unsure what is required, the Melton World Travel team is happy to serve as a resource and help guide you to the appropriate information and visa services.
What should I pack?
Before departure, we provide a recommended packing list tailored to your destination, season, climate, planned activities, and any cultural considerations. We will also advise you of any special clothing, footwear, or other items that may be needed for particular sites or experiences.Our packing list is intended as a helpful guide, and we encourage travelers to adapt it to their personal preferences and travel style. If you have any questions about what to bring, the Melton World Travel team is always happy to help.
Can I arrive early or stay longer?
Yes. For most of our trips, we assist with arranging pre- and post-trip extensions, as well as additional hotel nights before or after the program, subject to availability.
For destinations involving significant time zone changes, we often recommend arriving a day or two early. A pre-trip stay gives you time to adjust to the local time, recover from your journey, and begin the program feeling rested and ready to fully enjoy the experience.
How much luggage can I bring?
Luggage allowances may vary depending on the itinerary. While international airfare is not included in our trip packages, some journeys include domestic flights or other forms of transportation that have more limited baggage allowances.
To ensure a smooth travel experience, we encourage packing as lightly as possible. On some itineraries, smaller suitcases may be recommended due to airline baggage limits, regional aircraft, or ease of handling during the trip. If additional baggage fees are charged by an airline, they are the responsibility of the traveler.
Any luggage guidelines or applicable baggage allowances will be shared well in advance of departure, and the Melton World Travel team is always happy to answer questions as you prepare for your journey.
DURING THE TRIP
What size are your groups?
Group sizes vary by destination but are intentionally kept small, typically ranging from 15 to 25 participants. This allows for a more personal, engaging, and flexible travel experience.A minimum of 15 travelers is required for a trip to operate. Maximum group size depends on the destination and demand but is generally capped between 24 and 25 participants to ensure a comfortable, personal experience.
We aim to keep groups small enough to allow meaningful connection and a high-quality travel experience, while also making space for more participants on particularly popular or bucket-list journeys.
Will I have free time?
Yes. While our trips feature a rich schedule of guided sightseeing, educational programming, and group activities, free time is intentionally built into the itinerary. These opportunities allow participants to explore on their own, relax, shop, visit sites of personal interest, or simply enjoy the destination at their own pace.What type of hotel accommodation do you use?
We typically use high-quality 4-star and 5-star properties carefully selected for their comfort, quality, location, and overall fit within the itinerary. While accommodation varies by destination, we strive to provide hotels that enhance the travel experience and offer a comfortable and enjoyable stay throughout the journey.
Can I request a roommate?
Yes. If you already have a preferred roommate, simply let us know when you register, and we will do our best to accommodate your request.
If you are traveling on your own and would like to share a room, we are happy to connect you with a traveler who has expressed an interest in being matched. While we cannot guarantee a roommate, we will make every effort to introduce compatible travelers who can decide whether they would like to share accommodations.
If a roommate is not available or a match is not confirmed, solo travelers will be accommodated in a private room, and the applicable single supplement will apply.
Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes. We make every effort to accommodate dietary preferences. We work closely with our local restaurants, hotels, and catering partners to ensure that every traveler feels welcome and well cared for.Meals included on our programs are always kosher-style. When meat is served, it is kosher, and any fish served is limited to kosher species. Unless otherwise specified, meals are not prepared under rabbinical supervision.
We are happy to accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, allergy-related, and other dietary requirements whenever possible. While menu options may vary by destination and local availability, our team works in advance with our local partners to provide appropriate alternatives whenever we can.
If you have specific dietary needs, please let us know when you register. We are always happy to discuss your requirements and will do everything we can to ensure you are well accommodated throughout your journey.
Will there be Wi-Fi available?
Most hotels offer Wi-Fi, though service quality may vary by destination. Wi-Fi may also be available in cafés, airports, and public spaces.Please note that Wi-Fi is not guaranteed on buses. Travelers who anticipate needing consistent internet access may wish to check with their mobile provider regarding international plans or consider arranging an eSIM or other connectivity option before departure.
Are there toilets on buses?
It depends on the destination and the type of bus being used. Some buses are equipped with onboard restrooms, while others are not. Regardless, we schedule regular comfort stops throughout the day and as needed during longer drives to ensure everyone travels comfortably.
What happens in case of an emergency?
Your well-being is our highest priority. If you experience a medical emergency while traveling, our staff will help you obtain the appropriate medical care as quickly as possible and provide support throughout the process.While we may not always be able to remain with you at the medical facility, we will stay actively involved by communicating with your healthcare providers (when appropriate), contacting your designated emergency contact, assisting with translation or logistics when needed, and helping coordinate any necessary travel arrangements. We will continue to support you and your family until the situation is resolved and will do everything we reasonably can to ensure you are cared for every step of the way.
Our ground team is also available throughout the journey to assist with medical, logistical, and travel-related emergencies.
JEWISH PRACTICE & OBSERVANCE
How is Shabbat observed during the trip?
Shabbat is an important part of a Melton journey and is observed in ways that reflect the destination and itinerary. When possible, we include opportunities to enjoy Shabbat meals, attend services, participate in meaningful discussions or walking experiences, and enjoy time for rest, reflection, or personal observance.
To respect a range of traditions and practices, we do not schedule group transportation on Shabbat. Travelers with specific Shabbat observance needs or questions are encouraged to contact us before registering so we can discuss whether a particular journey is the right fit.
Will there be opportunities for prayer services?
Each destination offers its own unique opportunities to experience Jewish life. Depending on the itinerary, there may be opportunities to attend Shabbat or holiday services, visit local congregations, or participate in other meaningful Jewish communal experiences.Whenever possible, we incorporate opportunities to connect with local Jewish communities in ways that reflect the character, customs, and traditions of each destination.
Are kosher meals available?
Yes. Whenever possible, we incorporate kosher meals into our group dining experience so that everyone can enjoy them together. When meat is served, it is kosher, and we serve only fish permitted under the laws of kashrut.Because the availability of kosher food varies from destination to destination, the number and type of kosher meals may differ by itinerary. In locations where kosher catering is available, we work closely with our local partners to include it whenever feasible.
If you have additional kashrut requirements beyond our standard meal arrangements, please let us know before you register. We are happy to discuss the options for your specific journey and will do everything we reasonably can to accommodate your needs.
ISRAEL-SPECIFIC
Is the trip suitable for first-time visitors to Israel?
Absolutely. Many of our Israel journeys are designed with first-time visitors in mind, providing a meaningful introduction to the country while going far beyond the highlights. At the same time, returning travelers consistently tell us they discover new places, hear new stories, and gain fresh perspectives with every visit.
Each itinerary has its own educational focus, so no two Melton journeys are exactly alike. Whether it is your first visit or your tenth, you'll experience Israel through the lens of history, culture, contemporary society, and meaningful encounters with the people who call it home.
Will we visit major religious and historical sites?
Yes. Depending on the journey, you'll visit many of Israel's most significant religious, historical, and cultural landmarks, while also exploring lesser-known places and meeting the people behind today's Israel. Our itineraries are carefully curated to balance iconic sites with hidden gems, creating a richer, more authentic understanding of the country's past, present, and future.
What security measures are in place?
The safety and well-being of our travelers is our highest priority. For our Israel journeys, we work closely with the Israel Ministry of Tourism, which is in regular communication with the highest levels of Israel's security and government agencies. Our itineraries are reviewed daily in consultation with the Ministry and our trusted local partners to ensure they reflect the latest security assessments and current conditions.
Every travel decision is made based on real-time information and the guidance of experienced security professionals and local experts. If circumstances require, itineraries may be adjusted to maintain the highest standards of safety while preserving the educational integrity of the journey.
Our travelers can travel with confidence knowing that security is continuously monitored before and throughout the program, and that every decision is made with their safety and well-being at the forefront.
For more information ...
For more information, please contact us here.
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