Travel > Prague & Berlin
A Tale of Two Cities, Prague & BerlinDates: TBA
Prices are listed in US dollars.
Day One: Wednesday
PRAGUE: A WALKING INTRODUCTION2:30 p.m. Meet with your Melton educator and fellow group members to begin the program.
Orientation to the program.
Walking tour of the Old Town Square and its vicinity, a kaleidoscope of periods and styles: (how) were the Jews a part of this culture?
Welcoming dinner.
Return to the hotel.
Overnight: Prague
Day Two: Thursday
THE GLORY OF PRAGUE, GENERAL AND JEWISHBreakfast at the hotel.
Introduction to the day: The Crown, the Cross and the Jews.
Transfer to the Strakhov Monastery for a special tour of their library, followed by a visit to the environs of the Hrad (Prague Castle).
Overview of the City of 100 Spires and walk along the Golden Lane, with a study session on the way: Politics and Leadership: Between Nobles, Burghers and Jews.
Walk through the Lesser Town and over the Charles Bridge crossing the Vltava River, once the most important connection between Prague Castle and the city's Old Town and adjacent areas.
Lunch on your own en route.
Afternoon devoted to the Old Jewish Town (Yosefov):
Introduction: The Fabric of Jewish Life Until the 19th century
- Guided visit through the Altneu Shul.
- Explore the rest of the Old Ghetto and the Precious Legacy Exhibit at the Jewish Museum, encompassing the Old Cemetery, the Maisel, the Klausen and the Pinkas Synagogues.
Dinner on own and evening at leisure.
(Optional): A Jew in K.'s Prague (walking exploration of Kafka’s World in Central Prague).
Overnight: Prague
Day Three: Friday
MEMORY & CONTINUITYBreakfast at the hotel and introduction to the day: Twentieth Century Breakdown.
Depart Prague and drive to Terezin.
Visit Terezin, the town that was turned into the “model” ghetto and concentration camp. Visit the Historical Museum and the Art Exhibits, created by the artists who were prisoners of the camp, stop by the so-called Hidden Synagogue and the Crematorium. Conclude the visit with a special study session: What Makes For Heroism?
Boxed lunch en route back to Prague.
Meeting with a young leader of the Czech Jewish community.
Shabbat Dinner, possibly with members of the community.
Overnight: Prague
Day Four: Saturday
A PRAGUE SHABBATBreakfast at the hotel.
Optional Shabbat morning services at a local synagogue.
OR
Morning at leisure to explore Prague on own.
Lunch on own.
Afternoon walking tour.
Bein Kodesh Lechol: light Shabbat Snack, study session and Havdalah.
Overnight: Prague
Day Five: Sunday
FROM PRAGUE TO BERLINBreakfast at the hotel and check out.
Drive to Dresden, symbol of Germany in her defeat and of the price of war.
Site visit and discussion: Victor Klemperer - A Jew, Not by Choice.
Boxed lunch together, in a park near Dresden's cathedral.
Continue the drive to Berlin. Upon arrival:
- Visit Nikolaikirsche Platz for an overview of the story of the city and its Jewish community.
- See Ephraim-Palais, home of the court Jew of Frederick the Great.
- Presentation alongside Lessing's home: Lessing and "Nathan the Wise", and Moses Mendelssohn.
Check into the hotel.
Dinner on own and evening at leisure.
Overnight: Berlin
Day Six: Monday
JEWISH LIFE IN BERLINBreakfast at the hotel and introduction: German Jews and Their Judaisms.
Visit the Weissensee Jewish Cemetery, the second largest Jewish cemetery in Europe.
Walk along Grosse Hamburger Strasse, once the center of Berlin Jewry.
Tour to Jewish sites in the neighborhood, including:
- The Hackescher Markt
- The Jewish Cemetery, including Moses Mendelsson's grave
Break for lunch on own.
Guided visit to the Jewish Museum of Berlin, designed by architect Daniel Libeskind. One of the most conspicuous architectural landmarks in the city, it embodies remembrance, melancholy, and departure.
Return to the hotel or remain in museum.
Dinner on own and evening at leisure.
Overnight: Berlin
Day Seven: Tuesday
FROM IMPERIAL TO NAZI BERLINBreakfast at the hotel and introduction to the day: From Bismarck to Hitler; Models of Authoritarianism.
The Fate of Books and People: Visit the Book Burning Memorial at Bebel Square, alongside Humboldt University.
Stop at the Victory Column in the Tiergarten: Bismarck, Architect of Modern Germany, and his Jew, Bleichroder (brief discussion).
Visit the 1936 Olympic Games stadium: Putting Symbols to Use.
Break for lunch on own.
Visit the "Places of Remembrance" Art in Public Space memorial in the Bavarian Quarter, addressing the almost-forgotten history of this neighborhood, where Albert Einstein and Hannah Arendt once lived.
Visit the exhibition devoted to the residents of Schoneberg at the Municipal Hall: “We Are All Berliners!”
Free to explore or return to the hotel.
Overnight: Berlin
Day Eight: Wednesday
THE BEAST LET LOOSE: NAZI BERLINBreakfast at the hotel and introduction to the morning: The Thousand Year Reich
Drive to the Reich Ministry of Aviation and other Nazi-era buildings along Wilhelmstrasse.
Visit the Monument to the Murdered Jews of Europe and the commemorative spots devoted to the Roma and Sinti, and to the Homosexuals.
Study Session: What to Remember? How to Remember?
Visit the Topography of Terror Museum (Individual exploration after Introduction).
Break for lunch on own.
BERLIN DIVIDED AND REUNITED
Visit Brandenburg Gate
Walls That Divided: Visit the Berlin Wall Museum and Memorial.
Dinner on own and evening at leisure.
Overnight: Berlin
Day Nine: Thursday
TAKING STOCKBreakfast at the hotel.
Introduction to the day: Looking Back
How Do We Educate? A special session with the educational staff of the Wannsee Conference Educational and Memorial Site.
The Ongoing Construction of Memory: a visit to Gleis 17 (Track 17), the main deportation site for Berlin Jews during the Holocaust, located in Grunewald.
Boxed lunch en route.
Heart of the New Germany: The Reichstag and new Government Center.
What Lessons do Germans Take from their Past? Meet with an organization involved in refugee assistance or co-existence dialogue or a scholar of contemporary Germany society.
Group Session: What Lessons do WE Take from our Encounters?
Farewell dinner.
Overnight: Berlin
Day Ten: Friday
RETURN HOME or continue individual travelBreakfast at the hotel and check out as per individual schedules.
Transfer on own to Berlin International Airport.
Note: Itinerary subject to change. Museum visits and personal shopping time may be disrupted due to unforeseen circumstances or the many religious, state and local holidays locally observed in the destinations being visited.
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.
Tour Includes
- Accommodations: 9 nights
- Meals: Breakfast and six additional meals
- Educational Programming: All entrance fees and programs as per the Melton itinerary.
Hotels
- Day 1-3: K+K Hotel Central, Prague
K+K Hotel Central, Prague is one of the oldest Art Nouveau buildings in the city – situated in the heart of Prague and within walking distance of the Jewish Quarter, Astronomical Clock, and Republic Square. - Day 4-9: Titanic Gendarmenmarkt Berlin
Just like Berlin is very much a mix of heritage and modern influences, we have created an inspiring blend of classic elements and inspiringly playful and modern décor. Located on Französische Straße, in the beautiful Gendarmenmarkt area with its monumental 18th-century architecture, our building was once used as a warehouse by the Staatsoper.
Note: We will do our best to assist you with extensions both before and after the seminar.
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 seminar. We have contracted this seminar to Gil Travel 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).
Please Note
CANCELLATIONS
Please refer to the Cancellation policy that appears in the Terms and Conditions of the Registration process with Gil Travel.
The Gil Travel Cancellation policy states, in part:
On registration, a non-returnable fee of $500 is required. This will be applied to the overall seminar cost.
By 90 days prior to the opening of the seminar, the remaining amount should be paid.
- If an individual cancels more than 90 days prior to the seminar, s/he will forfeit the registration fee only.
- After that (90 days or less) no refunds will be issued.
- If the seminar is cancelled by Melton up to 91 days prior to the seminar, the individual will be reimbursed in full.
- If the seminar is cancelled due to COVID and according to the relevant governmental decisions up to 91 days prior to the seminar, the individual will be reimbursed in full. Every attempt will be made to determine the viability of a seminar at least 91 days prior to its opening date.
- If the seminar is cancelled due to COVID less than 91 days prior to opening, the monies paid (that is, the full price) will be held for when the seminar is run in the future.
Please note that all reimbursements on payments made by credit card will carry a 3% processing fee. All notifications of cancellation must be submitted in writing.
Additional Information
- Group rates are per person based on double occupancy and a minimum of 20 full 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 seminars 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.
- 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
- Airfare to the tour departure point and from the tour ending point is not included.
- Personal Transfers from / to the airport.
- Personal Expenses: All personal expenses such as: laundry, valet service, cables, telephone calls and postage are not included.
Please note that Gil Travel will obey all protocols/restrictions in place regarding COVID.
We strongly recommend that you purchase travel insurance. Melton is not responsible for cancellation of this program for reasons beyond its control. Your comprehensive 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. We refer you to a list published by Forbes magazine, showing those companies that offer this new policy.
Please note that such policies may require registration for the policy within 14-21 days of your registration for the seminar.
Gil Travel recommends RoamRight Travel Insurance.
For more information on the available plans or to enroll, visit RoamRight Travel Insurance or contact RoamRight at 1-866-891-6614 and reference Gil Travel.
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. It must also be exactly as it appears on your passport. Please make sure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months after the date of your return home.
- 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 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 visitthe U.S. Transportation Security Administration websiteat tsa.gov to obtain more information on acceptable identity documentation and prohibited luggage items.
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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
