Travel > Dubai & Israel
Shalom Salaam: Dubai & Israel
Prices are listed in US dollars.
This journey takes place in a stunning setting that evokes questions we never imagined we would ask in our lifetime. What internal changes needed to take place to turn a previously hostile nation into a warm and welcoming environment where Jews and Israelis now flourish? During our time in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, we will learn how the impact of the Abraham Accords has changed local thought processes while meeting with Jewish community leaders and entrepreneurs who are forming new partnerships. Transitioning to Israel, we will visit Arab-Israeli towns to learn about their growth and challenges post-Abraham Accords and meet with Israelis – both Jewish and Arab – who work together to overcome bias and stereotypes. Along the way, we will hear from various experts and students regarding current perceptions of the Abraham Accords in Israel's majority and marginal communities, and learn how new ventures in business, art, music, and cultural endeavors are slowly moving the needle.
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Shalom, Salaam
(Itinerary subject to change)Includes
- Meals: All breakfasts, 6 lunches and 6 dinners
- Flight: From Dubai to Tel Aviv
- Accommodations: 4 nights in Dubai, 2 nights in Tel Aviv, and 2 nights in Jerusalem
- All educational programming
- Tips & entrance fees
Day 1 – Monday - Welcome to The United Arab Emirates (UAE)
- Check into your hotel
- Dinner at leisure
- For those arriving early, it is a short walk downtown to ‘IMAGINE’ – a show harnessing the power of light and water, offering a unique sensory experience with 30-fountains and surround sound – all in front of the iconic Burj Khalifa.
Overnight: Dubai Vida Hotel, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd., Dubai (Tel: +971 4-428-6888)
Day 2 – Tuesday - Framing the Visit
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Crossroads to The Civilization Museum - Visit a museum dedicated to the importance of universal values, such as tolerance and respect. Visit the first-ever Holocaust exhibit in the Arab world hosted by Ahmed Obaid Al Mansoori, the museum's founder, and a former member of the UAE Federal National Council.
- Take an abra – a traditional boat – to cross the Creek towards the Spice Market where we will discover new flavors as we follow a recipe of an Emirati Chef and learn about the traditional use of aromas to fend off anything from stress to insomnia. Next, we will visit the Gold Souk, where we will meet with a goldsmith whose trade has been passed down from generation to generation.
- Sheik Muhammad Center for Cultural Understanding – We will have lunch at the Muhammad Center for Cultural Understanding, joined by a local Emirati for an open dialogue and question and answer session.
- The Frame - Rising 150 meters (about 492.13 ft) from Dubai’s Zabeel Park, is the “World’s Largest Picture Frame”, offering up panoramic views of the skyline while framing views of iconic buildings such as the Burj Khalifa.
- Return to the hotel to refresh for dinner
- Dinner at Armani Kaf located on the ground floor of the award-winning Armani Hotel
Overnight: Dubai Vida Hotel
Day 3: Wednesday - Being Jewish in the UAE
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Visit Mini Miracles, hosted by Rabbi Duchman and Abraham Miracles Center of Learning (AMCL) - Meet with Jewish Agency Emissaries and current JDC Entwine Intern.
- Meet with Rabbi Abadie - Senior rabbi of the Jewish Council of the Emirates in the United Arab Emirates.
- Lunch at Kosher Arabia - Proof that new alliances, partnerships, and innovation are alive and well in 2024.
- Meet with Gulf leaders, entrepreneurs, and artists committed to opening doors and ushering in a new era of cooperation and friendship furthering the goals of the Abraham Accords between Israel, the UAE and Bahrain.
- Cocktails with Ellie Kriel from Kosherati – Meet with the founder of Elli's Kosher Kitchen to learn about the burgeoning emergence of kosher options in the UAE.
- Dinner at leisure
Overnight: Dubai Vida Hotel
Day 4: Thursday - Visit Abu Dhabi
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Depart for Abu Dhabi
- Private tour of the iconic Musee Louvre - This is the first universal museum in the Arab world that expresses the spirit of openness towards all cultures.
- Free for lunch on the Corniche, the famous boardwalk and beach
- Abrahamic Family House - A collection of three religious spaces: a mosque, a synagogue, and a church, all of which will be in a secular visitor pavilion. The house will serve as a community for inter-religious dialogue and exchange, nurturing the values of peaceful co-existence and acceptance among different beliefs, nationalities, and cultures.
- The Grand Mosque - Sheikh Zayed Mosque has minarets over 100 meters tall with 82 domes of white marble; it is awe-inspiring, to say the least.
- Enjoy a group dinner in Abu Dhabi
- Return to Dubai
Overnight: Dubai Vida Hotel
Day 5: Friday – Changing Perspectives
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Check out and departure transfer to Dubai International Airport for a 1:10 PM flight
- VIP Arrival at Ben Gurion Airport - You will be greeted at the airport and transferred to the hotel for check in.
- Kabbalat Shabbat
- Shabbat dinner and discussion at the hotel
Overnight: Tel Aviv Royal Beach, 19 HaYarkon Street, Tel Aviv (Tel: +972 3-740-5000)
Day 6: Saturday – Shabbat Shalom Salaam
- Shul hopping in Kerem HaTeimanim - A central Tel Aviv Neighborhood, Kerem HaTeimanim means "Vineyards of the Yemenites". Yemenite pioneers built this neighborhood and many of their descendants still live here today. The neighborhood underwent refurbishment in the 1990s and today is popular for both religious and secular residents. There are diverse types of architectural styles displayed in the neighborhood from British colonial style to Bauhaus and even modern-day designs.
- Shabbat Around the Jewish World - Enjoy the variety of classic ethnic foods that are part of the Shabbat day meal. These dishes are cooked by families who are eager to share their heritage and flavors with us.
- Tour of Jaffa - Jaffa is one of the most ancient port cities in Israel and the Mediterranean basin. Today Jaffa is a mixed city, where Jews, Muslims and Christians live alongside each other. Tel Aviv, which borders Jaffa to the north, was established centuries later, in the year 1909. While these two cities were united into one municipality in 1949, they have each kept their own unique feel and atmosphere. Parts of Jaffa have been gentrified in recent years with the old narrow streets and courtyards becoming a highly popular part of Tel Aviv’s urban tapestry.
- Conversation with Dan Feferman - Dan Feferman is the Executive Director of Sharaka, an NGO that works to build people-to-people peace between Israel and the Arab world. Dan is also a founding member of the UAE-Israel Business Council, and co-founder and chair of the Gulf-Israel Policy Forum.
- Havdalah followed by dinner on your own
Overnight: Tel Aviv Royal Beach
Day 7: Sunday - Is There an Arab-Israeli Abrahamic Vision?
- Breakfast at the hotel - Check out of the hotel
- Peres Center for Peace and Innovation - The Peres Center for Peace and Innovation serves as a physical hub of the Start-Up Nation in Jaffa. Founded by former Israeli Prime Minister and President Shimon Peres in 1996, the center uniquely highlights Israeli innovation and history. It is composed of two key elements: its physical campus which features Israeli innovation of the past, present, and future and a series of off-campus programming initiatives meant to build bridges through innovation in the region.
- Meet the people of Jaljuliya - The Sharon area is a mix of Jewish and Arab cities. We share public spaces, malls, supermarkets, and parks, but we do not often socialize with our Arab neighbors. During our visit to Jaljuliya, we will visit the central Mosque to learn about the community. Our guide, Raid, is a leader in the community and has spent his life in Jaljuliya. The tour is offered in partnership with the social business "Shared Paths" which specializes in social tourism as an innovative way of creating social change and supporting local small businesses.
- Conversation with Mohammad Darawshe - Mohammad Darawshe is considered a leading political analyst and expert on Jewish-Arab relations inside Israel. He is the Director of the Center for Shared Society at Givat Haviva.
- Home hospitality lunch in Jaljuliya
- Kfar HaYarok - Meet students at the Eastern Mediterranean International School - With educational programs, extracurriculars, classes, workshops, trips, and a student body with 40% of its students from Middle Eastern countries, and 60% from other international locations, EMIS’s mission drives students to make change, create dialogue, and connect with each other.
- Group dinner
Overnight: The Orient Hotel, Emek Refaim 3, Jerusalem (Tel: +972 2-569-9090)
Day 8: Monday – Jerusalem: Sharing the Holy City
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Drive to Jerusalem
- Tour Jerusalem’s Old City and meet the people and places that make this place so unique. In the Jewish Quarter, uncover the layers of Jewish history from the time of the First Temple until the present day. Conditions permitting, we will visit the Temple Mount, holy to both Muslims and Jews. Along the way we will also consider the unique challenges of Christians in Israel. Throughout the tour, explore the complexity of a city that is holy to the three major religions - Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
- Lunch in the Old City
- Meet with members of the Interreligious Coordinating Council in Israel (ICCI) was founded in 1991 to further understanding and communication between members of different faith communities and to build foundations for lasting fellowship. ICCI works with young people, women, and religious leaders to promote Jewish-Muslim-Christian coexistence and peacebuilding projects.
- Dinner at O2 Restaurant – Enjoy upbeat Jerusalem cuisine that derives its inspiration from the markets and culinary history of the holy city.
Overnight: The Orient Hotel
Day 9: Tuesday – A Mixed Neighborhood
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Meeting at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to discuss if what ways Israel's relationships with bordering countries affect the Abraham Agreement?
- Meet Ksenia Svetlova, Director of Israel-Middle East program at Mitvim - The Israeli Institute for Regional Foreign Policies.
- Lunch and Arabic lesson at Hamiffal - Hamiffal, "The Factory" is an art community that turned an abandoned 19th century building in the heart of Jerusalem into a shared platform for art and culture. At Hamiffal Jewish Israelis learn Arabic, a trend that has grown throughout Israel.
- Meet the Young Leaders of ROPES - The Regional Organization for Peace, Economics & Security (ROPES) aims to revive momentum toward a historic Israeli-Palestinian peace accord by rallying a powerful regional coalition of rising stars in business, culture, and politics behind a 2030 vision of a new Middle East.
- Final dinner at Luiza in the Garden – For our farewell dinner, we will enjoy unique Israeli cuisine in Abu Ghosh in a garden full of local herbs and ancient olive trees. A passion for gastronomy and a joy of hosting are brought together here in the art of Slow Food, based on protecting the environment, moral consumption, and local organic produce.
- Transfer to the airport for those flying
Extensions can be arranged for those staying in Jerusalem.
This educational tour will be led by Avi Ben Hur. Melton travel is open to adults of all ages.
We look forward to travelling and learning with you,
The Melton Travel Team
Please contact us here if you would like to be notified when registration opens.
Need to Know
- Melton has offered quality educational travel opportunities for over 25 years, but it is not a travel agency and does not handle any payments made towards the tour. We have contracted this tour to Via Sabra and it is essential that you read their Terms and Conditions prior to your actual registration.
- Melton is not responsible for cancellation of this program for reasons beyond its control and your travel insurance should cover both "cancellation for any reason" and "COVID-related cancellation". This latter policy is being offered by a number of insurance companies (see Insurance, Health & Safety, on this page).
Cancellations
Please refer to the Cancellation policy that appears in the Terms and Conditions of the Registration process with Via Sabra.
Additional Information
- Group rates are per person based on double occupancy and a minimum of 15 fully paying participants per bus. Should the number of participants drop below the minimum listed above, we will adjust the cost of the trip to reflect the additional expense of operating the program.
- Tour prices are per person in U.S. dollars. All hotel accommodations, motor coach transportation, special dinners, sightseeing, admissions, luggage handling and the services of local guides, drivers, and the tour guide/educator are included.
- Hotel Accommodations: The tour price includes all hotel accommodations, in hotel rooms with private baths. Our standard is to provide the best available hotels while considering value. Although the level of the accommodations may differ slightly from hotel to hotel, we are committed to your comfort. Two-bed rooms are reserved in most hotels. Triples are two-bed rooms with a rollaway cot where available and are not recommended when considering the comfort of those in the room. King-size beds are not available in most hotels; what is considered king-size usually consists of two single beds pushed together and made up separately, but with one headboard. Some two-bed rooms may have two twin - not full- or queen-size - beds.
- Meals are included as specified in the itinerary. In travel beyond Israel, not all communal meals are kosher certified, but fish- and vegetarian options will always be available and kashrut and other dietary requirements of group members will be taken into account. Participants can order additional kosher meals at prices set by our local agents.
- All tours are led by a Melton educator who remains with the group throughout the tour.
- Gratuities: All gratuities for the educators, guides, drivers, and restaurant staff are included.
- Baggage: The Travel Agent and/or Tour Operator shall not be held responsible for any damage to, or loss of, luggage/personal items. All damage/loss must be reported at time of the incident and documented in writing by local authorities for submission to the insurance company. With regard to airline baggage allowance, different carriers have different regulations for business and coach. Please check with your individual carrier with regard to permitted number of pieces, weights and dimensions. The tour operator is not responsible for fees levied by any air carrier for the transport of personal belongings of any kind.
- Airline Security Measures: In the U.S., you must provide identification in the form of a passport at the time of airport check-in for travel to international destinations. Your passport 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 is required for that 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 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 religious, 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 that your photo not be used in any marketing activities, please notify us at the start of your tour.
Not Included
- Round trip international flights to and from the US, personal and health insurance.
- Transfers from / to the airport unless as part of an organized group travelling together.
- Personal Expenses, including meals not mentioned above or drinks during meals, unless specified above; or room service.
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.
T: 1–646–921–0747, Ext. 4
