Gesher 2017
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8th Grade Class Israel Experience
Gesher 2017
April 20 – May 5, 2017
Getting Ready for the Journey
Welcome to Gesher 2017 – The annual joint 8th grade class Israel experience representing
Rockwern Academy, Carmel Academy, the Gottesman RTW Academy, and the Hannah
Senesh Community Day School. This packet was prepared for students and families to
prepare for our upcoming travels ahead. Contact school staff with any additional questions.
Program Itinerary
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Packing Guidance
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How to Get Ready
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Money Abroad
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What’s Included
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General Tips
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Passports & Visas
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Securing Guidelines
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Arrival Procedures
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Kupah Participation Form
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Staying in Touch
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Waiver & Release
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Health & Travel Insurance
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8th Grade Class Israel Experience
PROGRAM ITINERARY
The following is our projected itinerary, subject to minor change and to be re-confirmed approximately
a month prior to our departure date.
Thursday, April 20, 2017
• Depart from Newark on EL AL #028 at 1:30pm
Friday, April 21, 2017
• Arrive to Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport at 7:00am
• Meet the Israeli staff team and the journey begins! (welcome snacks provided)
• Neot Kedumim - Welcome ceremony, ice breakers, school tree planting and lunch
• Ascend to Jerusalem – Shecheyanu ceremony at the Haas Promenade
• Check-in to hotel and prepare for Shabbat
• Kabbalat Shabat at the Kotel followed by dinner at the hotel
• Overnight: Montefiore Hotel, Jerusalem
Saturday, April 22, 2017 [NO BUS]
• Shabbat programming and lunch at hotel
• Walking tour of Jerusalem neighborhoods – Yemin Moshe and Rehavia
• Dinner at our accommodations
• Evening: Group night out on Ben Yehuda Street
• Overnight: Montefiore Hotel, Jerusalem
Sunday, April 23, 2017
• Return to the Kotel pavilion to explore the Southern Wall Excavations and the Kotel Tunnels
• Continue to the Jewish Quarter, including a visit to the restored Hurva Shul
• Lunch and shopping time in the Jewish Quarter
• Discover the foundations of Jerusalem at the City of David Complex and Hezekiah Tunnels
• Check-in and dinner at our accommodations in the Jerusalem foothills
• Evening: Yom HaShoah tekes
• Overnight: Neve Ilan Guest House, Jerusalem Hills
Monday, April 24, 2017 [YOM HASHOAH]
• Docent-led tour of the Yad VaShem Worldwide Holocaust Memorial Center
• Guided tour of the Supreme Court and visit the campus of the Knesset, Israel’s parliament
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Honor the leaders and soldiers of Israel at Mt. Herzl National Memorial, including the grave of
Hannah Szenes
• Evening: Dinner at the Kosher McDonalds in Mevatzerret Tzion
• Overnight: Neve Ilan Guest House, Jerusalem Hills
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Tuesday, April 25, 2017
• Tour of Latrun – Israel's Armored Corps Museum and 1948 battleground site
• Dig-for-a-Day archeological seminar at Beit Guvrin National Park
• Continue to the Negev Desert and explore the region on an off-road jeep tour
• Camel riding and Bedouin dinner feast in the desert
• Overnight: Chan HaShayarot Bedouin Tent, Negev Desert
Wednesday, April 26, 2017
• Hike to the hidden desert oasis at Ein Avdat
• Sde Boker – Ben Gurion’s vision for Israel in the desert
• Travel to the Judean Desert for floating and beach time at the Dead Sea’s Ein Bokek Beach
• Check-in and dinner at accommodations in Arad
• Overnight: Inbar Hotel, Arad
Thursday, April 27, 2017
• Hike up Masada via the Roman Ramp and explore the ancient mountain fortress
• Descend via the cable cars – enjoy breakfast at the base of Masada
• Travel up the Jordan Valley to the Galilee
• Swimming in the natural pools of the Sachne
• Discover the stories of Israel’s frontier pioneers at Old Gesher
• Check-in and dinner at our accommodations on the Sea of Galilee
• Overnight: Kibbutz Haon Guest House, Galilee
Friday, April 28, 2017
• Walking tour of old Tsfat – The ancient center of Jewish mysticism
• Lunch and exploration time in the Tsfat artists’ colony
• Travel to the Upper Galilee – Bike riding in the Hula Valley Nature Reserve
• Return to accommodation and prepare for Shabbat
• Kabbalat Shabbat and dinner at our accommodations
• Overnight: Haon Guest House, Sea of Galilee
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8th Grade Class Israel Experience
Saturday, April 29, 2017
• Shabbat programming and lunch at accommodations
• Relaxed afternoon and free time for sports and swimming
• Dinner and havdalla ceremony at our accommodations
• Evening: Cruise on the Kinneret and group night out in Tiberias
• Overnight: Haon Guest House, Sea of Galilee
Sunday, April 30, 2017
• Ascend the Golan Heights – Water hike in Nahal Jilaboun canyon
• Enjoy a traditional Druze lunch in the Golan
• View of the region and Israel’s neighbors from Mt. Ben Tal
• Cool off kayaking down the Jordan River
• Return to accommodations for dinner
• Evening: Erev Yom HaZikaron Tekes at a local kibbutz
• Overnight: Haon Guest House, Sea of Galilee
Monday, May 1, 2017 [YOM HAZIKARON]
• Depart the Galilee and travel to the Carmel Mountains
• Yemin Orde Youth Village - Learn about Israel's approach to absorbing immigrant communities
• Yom HaZikaron tekes at Yemin Orde and stay for lunch on campus
• City tour of Haifa – The Bahai Gardens, Stella Maris and Mt. Carmel cable cars
• Tour of Caesarea – Herod’s palace and amphitheater on the beach
• Arrive to Tel Aviv - Check-in and dinner at accommodations
• Evening: Erev Yom HaAtzmaut celebration at Rabin Square
• Overnight: Mishkenot Ruth Daniel, Tel Aviv
Tuesday, May 2, 2017 [YOM HA-ATZMAUT]
• Budakan martial arts class on the beach and free time at beach
• Experience a traditional Israeli BBQ lunch on the beach
• Visit to Tel Nof, an active Israel Defense Forces army base
• Return to Tel Aviv for dinner at our accommodations
• Evening: Group night out and movie at Ayalon Mall in Tel Aviv
• Overnight: Mishkenot Ruth Daniel, Tel Aviv
Wednesday, May 3, 2017
• Take part in a service project in support of the hungry at the Jaffa Institute
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8th Grade Class Israel Experience
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Co-existence walking tour of Jaffa with an educator from Beit Daniel
Shopping and lunch at the Jaffa flea market
Free time to enjoy Tel Aviv’s beach culture
Nalagaat Theater – Israel’s breakthrough theater troupe comprised of deaf and blind actors
Overnight: Mishkenot Ruth Daniel, Tel Aviv
Thursday, May 4, 2017
• Bikur cholim at the "Save a Child's Heart" center
• Experience the transformation of a landfill into an environmental treasure at Ariel Sharon Park
• Explore the Carmel Market and have lunch in Tel Aviv’s historic Neve Tzedek neighborhood
• Celebrate the founding of modern Israel at Independence Hall
• Wrap-session and closing discussion
• Evening: Celebration dinner at Maganda in the Yemenite Quarter
• Return to airport for late night flight home on EL AL #027
Friday, May 5, 2017
• Arrive back to Newark at 5:00am
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HOW TO GET READY
A. What’s Included
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Round trip international flight on El Al
Licensed guide, Israeli counselor and a
medic/guard accompanies each bus group 24/7
Deluxe motor coaches with air conditioning
All programming
Three kosher meals daily
Accommodations based on triple/quad rooms
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Laundry service (1x)
Staff gratuities
Local health insurance (does not cover preexisting conditions)
Israeli “Situation Room” security oversight
Bottle of water provided daily
B. Passports & Visas
Please check today to make sure that you know where your passport is and that it is not expired or
about to expire. Your passport must be valid for at least six months following your scheduled departure
date (i.e. make sure that your passport does NOT expire before December 2017). If you are traveling
on a USA, Canadian, or EU passport, you do NOT need a visa to enter Israel. If you are traveling on a
passport from another country (e.g. Russia, Ukraine, etc.), you may need a visa to enter Israel. If you
are traveling on a USA Travel Document (i.e. special passport for non-citizens), you will need a visa.
Please plan to carry a passport copy with you during the trip, because your actual passport will be held
for safekeeping at our offices near Ben Gurion Airport. We recommend keeping the passport copy in
your wallet or somewhere else on your person as a back-up form of identification.
C. Arrival Procedures
Upon landing in Israel, we will proceed as a group to passport control and will be met by a greeter in
the baggage claim area of Ben Gurion Airport (located immediately after passport control). Look for a
sign that says “Gesher”. Within the baggage claim area there will be time to use the restrooms before
we head as a group to our special bus loading zone. Under no circumstances should a student wander
beyond the baggage claim area without staff supervision.
Note: participants will not be allowed to leave the immediate group loading zone at the airport for any
reason. Therefore, due to the busy nature of our arrival procedures, we discourage visits from friends
and family at this time.
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D. Staying in Touch
RENTING A CELL PHONE / SIM CARD
A group cell phone rental or SIM card service is available to all participants through our partner,
IsraelPhones, at www.israelphones.com/gesher.htm. It’s a great way to stay in touch on the road, and
since our trip staff will have access to the cell phone numbers, it is an important back-up
communication tool. There are a number of plans to choose from based on your preferences – and
with every plan option, all incoming calls and incoming text messages are free. Delivery is included
upon arrival at Ben Gurion Airport with the group flight.
Option #1 – Unlimited Rate Plans
Option #2 – Pay-As-You-Go
Three unlimited plans including options for
unlimited voice, text and data:
Pay per outgoing call or text to any phone in
the USA, Canada, or Israel with no daily fee:
o Unlimited Talk
Unlimited voice calls within Israel and to the
USA/Canada for $4.49 per day
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o Unlimited Talk & Text
Unlimited voice calls within Israel and to the
USA/Canada, and unlimited texts within Israel for
$6.49 per day
17.9 cents per minute when calling within
the mobile network and to landlines in
Israel
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17.9 cents per minute when calling
outside of your mobile network in Israel
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o Unlimited Talk, Text & Data
Unlimited voice calls within Israel and to the
USA/Canada, unlimited texts within Israel, and
unlimited data usage for $7.99 per day
39.9 cents per minute when calling to the
USA and Canada
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17.9 cents per message when texting
within your network in Israel
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17.9 cents per message when texting
outside of your mobile network in Israel
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17.9 cents per message when texting to
int’l destinations including USA & Canada
SPECIAL NOTES
Incoming texts are free on the above plans
Outgoing texts to international numbers (including
to USA & Canadian cell phones) are priced at
39.9¢/text.
Incoming calls and text messages are always free
on the pay-as-you-go plan.
All plans carry a 10 day minimum.
Contact IsraelPhones for rates to other countries
All of the above rates do not include Israel’s 17% value added tax. (VAT rate is subject to change as per
government regulations)
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Cell Phone Ordering Information | Complete your reservation at least seven days prior to
departure using this link to obtain the group discount – www.israelphones.com/gesher.htm. To
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receive your assigned number/s and toll free number in advance, log on to www.israelphones.com
1-3 business days before departure date. Select "my number" and insert your confirmation
number. If you have any further questions about the mobile phone rental, please call the
IsraelPhones office at 1-866-8ISRAEL or email [email protected].
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Personal Responsibility for Your Rental Phone | We have partnered with IsraelPhones as a
convenience for our participants and in order to provide cell phone service in a manner where our
staff has access to the cell phone numbers during the trip. Authentic Israel and your sponsoring
school are not responsible for any costs associated with a lost or damaged phones, and we ask that
all cell phone-related questions be communicated directly to IsraelPhones.
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Cell Phone Use as a Privilege – Not a Right | Program staff regard cell phone use on the program
as a privilege. Participants will NOT be allowed to use their phones during group programming
time. Participants must exercise discretion when using the phones (i.e. respect sleeping
roommates, etc.). If necessary, program staff reserves the right to suspend or even terminate a cell
phone rental if usage privileges are abused.
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Bringing Your Own Phone to Israel | Students are also permitted to bring their cell phones with
international coverage on the trip in place of renting a cell phone through IsraelPhones. Just keep
in mind that these phones carry per minute fees for incoming calls while all incoming calls are free
through our arrangement with IsraelPhones. If you chose to bring a personal phone, the program is
not responsible for damage or lost devices, and we must get a record of your personal phone
number in advance.
HOW AND WHEN TO CALL
For parents and friends wishing to contact a participant during the trip, keep in mind that Israel is
seven hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time. Since our groups usually return to the hotel around
8:00pm each evening, the best time to call a hotel in Israel is between 1pm-4pm EST. Hotel phone
numbers are included as part of the travel itinerary. However, not every hotel has a full service
reception area, and service can be unreliable. If you want to ensure that your child is reachable abroad,
cell phone rental is the most practical solution.
E. Health & Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance
We encourage all participants to purchase travelers insurance in advance of the program. Travel
insurance is valuable for situations such as:
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Last minute cancellation due to personal illness or family illness or defined acts of terrorism
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Cancellation of connecting flight due to weather delays, etc.
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Medical insurance coverage for pre-existing conditions.
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Lost luggage and other services
Authentic Israel recommends Travel Insured International as a reputable provider of travel insurance.
A negotiated group discount policy is available to all participants. To learn more and purchase
insurance, go to: www.authenticisrael.com/group-insurance-sunmary-for-students.
NOTE: Travelers insurance must be issued before your final program balance is paid to your school.
Health Insurance
The program provides Israeli health insurance that covers non-pre-existing conditions. Parents are
encouraged to ensure their local coverage is valid in Israel (or obtain travel insurance) if there is a
concern about treatment for a pre-existing condition during the program.
F. Packing Guidance
Here are some basic tips to guide your packing. If you have more specific question, contact us directly.
What Luggage to Bring
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Bring one main piece of luggage – anything that is easy to roll – and one small carry-on bag.
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You will be allowed to check one piece of luggage for free, but please check with your airline
regarding the exact luggage weight and dimension allowances.
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Luggage tags from Authentic Israel will be provided in advance, and be sure to attach them with your
name, address and home telephone number to each piece of luggage that you bring to Israel.
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Pack a change of clothes, toiletries and any prescription medication in your carry-on luggage in case
your checked luggage is delayed in transit.
What to Pack
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Students are responsible for moving their luggage on/off the bus and to/from our accommodations.
On the one hand, you do not want to over pack. On the other hand, we only do laundry once over
two weeks, so be sure not to under pack either.
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Bring comfortable clothing for warm weather. Weather during the day can range from the 70’s to the
90’s. Evenings can get much cooler – especially in the desert – expect as low as the 50’s.
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We recommend bringing a small traveling bag on the bus each day to store extra clothing, personal
belongings and a light jacket/sweater for the evenings if we are not returning to the hotel earlier.
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We are doing a lot of walking in Israel, so be sure to bring comfortable and sturdy walking shoes. We
also recommend bringing athletic sandals or water shoes for the Dead Sea.
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Pack plenty of bathing suits and a light weight beach towel. There are ample opportunities to
swim/get wet as part of the program itinerary!
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Carry a hat and sunscreen for extra protection from the sun in the desert. Tank tops are not allowed
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Since we will be visiting sacred sites in Jerusalem and elsewhere, the custom in Israel is to keep knees
and shoulders covered in such places.
Things to Pack…
• 7-10 T-shirt
• 5 Pairs of shorts
• 2 Pairs of jeans or khakis
• 8 Pairs of underwear
• 8 Pairs of socks
• Pair of sneakers for walks/hikes
• 1 Sweatshirt
• 2 Bathing suits
• 1 Beach towel
• Clothing appropriate for two Shabbatot
Shabbat attire in Israel is more casual
• White shirt for Yom haZikaron
• Athletic sandals for the Dead Sea
• Hat and sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher)
• Day pack for carrying water and small items
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Toiletry bag
Flashlight
Passport copy (inside page with photo)
Sunglasses
Frisbees, cards, etc.
Camera (inexpensive)
Camelbak water backpack (or similar)
Things Not to Pack
• Linens and pillows
• Luggage that is not easily carried
• Expensive jewelry or other valuables
• Heavy backpack for day trips
• Heavy hiking boots
• Expensive electronics
Bringing Valuables to Israel
Theft is not uncommon in any place where a large number of tourists congregate, and there have been
many instances in the past. Accordingly, we encourage you to leave items of value at home and to
carefully keep track of anything valuable that you do bring on the program. As a general rule, hotel
rooms should always remain locked. However, even a locked hotel room should not be considered a
secure area unless a locked safe is available. If it is possible to bring a locking suitcase, we recommend
it, although it is not a solution by itself.
Your sponsoring school and Authentic Israel are not responsible for lost/stolen items – including items
lost/stolen in a hotel room. Students are responsible for their possessions at all times.
Laundry on the Trip
A special laundry service will be pre-scheduled once during the course of the three week trip.
Participants will be given a laundry bag to fill, and your cleaned clothing will be returned in those same
bags. We encourage participants to pair up as a room when doing laundry so that whites and colors are
combined in separate loads. Finally, participants should be sure to label clothing in advance that will be
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sent to the laundry service. Your sponsoring school and Authentic Israel are not responsible for any
clothing lost or damaged by the laundry service.
Sending Packages to Israel
Please do NOT send packages to students in Israel. Packages often get delayed by Israeli customs. Even
if a package does get through, it may be difficult for Authentic Israel to get the package to our group.
H. Money Abroad
Israeli Currency
In Israel, the local currency is the New Israeli Shekel (NIS). Each shekel is worth about 25 United States
cents. Shekel coins come in units of 1 (~25 cents), 2 (~50 cents), 5 (~$1.25), and 10 (~$2.50) as well as
much smaller coin denominations. Shekel bills come in units of 20 (~$5), 50 (~$12), 100 (~$25) and 200
(~$50) denominations. Coins in Israel come higher values than what we are used to in North America.
Practically speaking, this means you need to watch your coins carefully. Finally, the values of currencies
are constantly changing, and it’s a good idea to check the values again before your trip.
Accessing Shekels in Israel
Option #1: Kupah
Authentic Israel has established a kupah system for distributing spending money to students. The idea
of the kupah is that parents send funds to the Authentic Israel office ahead of the program. Those
funds are then converted to Israeli shekels, held by our bus staff and checked out by the students
during designated times throughout the trip. The kupah form is included with this packet.
Option #2: Payoneer
Payoneer provides a pre-paid debit card which will be mailed to you at home prior to the start of the
program. Through the use of Payoneer, participants will have the ability to withdraw funds from ATMs
in Israel and around the world as well as charge items to the card wherever Mastercard is accepted.
Parents can load money to the card through Payoneer's website, and can monitor/replenish the
account online as necessary. Additional advantages of Payoneer are:
• No need to travel with large amounts of cash and minimal interference with the program logistics –
no need to go to a bank to exchange cash and/or travelers checks.
• Trip staff carry spare cards which can be easily activated with the current balance of funds if the
original card is lost.
• An umbrella organization that ensures the money – MasterCard® means that there is no personal
liability for unauthorized purchases. Should unauthorized purchases be made, a call to Payoneer’s
customer support initiates the chargeback process from MasterCard®.
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If you plan to use a Payoneer card, be sure to complete the order within 30 days of the program start
as the application is reviewed for acceptance, and the card is mailed to you in advance. To sign-up, go
to this link and follow the online steps at www.israelidebitcard.com,
Option #3: Other ATM / Credit Cards
If you choose to use your personal ATM card or credit card, keep in mind the following advice:
• If your ATM card has a Visa, MasterCard, Star, Cirrus, or Maestro logo imprint, there should not be
problem withdrawing money. PLUS cards will not work in Israel. Other ATM network cards may
work, but we encourage you to check with your local bank if you have any doubts.
• Some participants have experienced difficulty withdrawing money from savings accounts. We
strongly recommend that ATM cards be linked to checking accounts only to prevent any potential
difficulties in Israel or Europe.
• Major credit cards like VISA and MasterCard are also accepted throughout Israel. We advise that you
contact your bank to inform them you are traveling abroad and using your cards to make purchases.
• We encourage you to check with your bank for exact fees charged when using ATM and credit cards
in foreign countries.
I. General Tips
Electrical Current
The electrical current in Israel is 220 volts, which is twice the voltage used in North America. The
electrical plugs also are different, with two rounded prongs (sometimes with an additional flat prong)
slightly farther apart than their two North American flattened counterparts. Therefore, you will need a
voltage converter if you are bringing electronic or electrical items (unless they have a built-in one) as
well as an adapter for plugging in your items. If you are unsure of which plugs to purchase, check with
your local electronics or travel store.
Kashrut & Special Dietary Needs
All meals provided by the program in Israel, including those aboard the flights to and from Israel, are
kosher as certified under the supervision of the Chief Rabbinate of Israel. People with special dietary
situations (i.e. lactose intolerance, vegetarian, etc.) should contact us in advance to make proper
arrangements for the program in Israel.
Medication and Contact Lenses
If you are taking medication, bring enough for your stay in Israel as well as an extra written prescription
in case you misplace your medicine. Take all medication on the plane with you in your hand
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luggage. Do NOT pack any medication with your check-in luggage. The same is true for contact
lenses. If you have a notable medical condition, please inform us in advance. No one likes surprises,
and remember that this is all for your safety. Participants are responsible for taking their own
medication during the trip. Keep in mind, that while staff has a list of all medications taken by
participants, staff members will not legally be allowed to assist in administering any medication for
participants. If you have special requests (i.e. refrigeration requirements), please note them on your
health forms and feel free to contact the office as well.
Vaccinations
There is no need for vaccinations or immunizations against diseases prior to visiting Israel beyond the
vaccinations North Americans and Europeans routinely receive against childhood diseases.
Water
Proper hydration is essential as there is an elevated risk for dehydration and sunstroke on a trip of this
nature. Participants will not be allowed off the bus without at least two liters of water whenever we
will be out in the sun for prolonged periods, and staff will be regularly reminding you to drink, drink,
drink!! But ultimately you must take this responsibility on your own shoulders. The water in Israel is
properly treated and is perfectly safe to drink. Bottled water is widely available and inexpensive.
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SAFETY & SECURITY GUIDLINES
Authentic Israel is committed to providing a secure travel experience in Israel. The following are the
components of the security guidelines we employ in Israel.
o Our itinerary adheres to Israel’s Ministry of Education security policies regarding youth and
student travel. Each group's itinerary is approved in advance and re-approved each morning of the
trip by a special "Situation Room" that is coordinated through the security services in partnership
with Israel's Ministry of Education.
o Participants are given a security and safety orientation upon arrival in Israel. During this session,
participants are given rules and regulations that govern their safety. Each participant is given an
emergency contact card with phone numbers of all staff and personnel who are available to the
participants on a 24x7 basis.
o Each group is accompanied at all times by a licensed medic/guard as well as a professional guide
who is licensed according to the highest logistical, security, and safety standards. Each group has a
dedicated cell phone which enables contact with the groups on a 24x7 basis.
o All of the accommodations that we use have a dedicated guard and a secure area. Most of the
accommodations we stay at are kibbutz-based guest houses that are located in Israel's
countryside and provide space for exploration within a secure environment.
o The program itineraries do not include travel to or through any Palestinian-controlled areas of the
West Bank or Gaza Strip.
o We avoid travel in unsecured crowded public areas, and we always travel on our own private
coach bus.
o While we make every effort to give participants space and time to explore on their own, there is
no leaving the group without approved supervision.
o Our programs are backed up by the Authentic Israel office in central Israel as well as by field staff
who support the trips on the ground.
Over and above these guidelines, we will always act prudently regarding security-related decisions.
While we take matters of security seriously, we are equally committed to providing a fun, meaningful,
and eye-opening experience in Israel. If you your family would like to discuss our security approach in
greater detail, we encourage you to contact Authentic Israel directly at 1-202-537-6056.
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KUPAH PARTICIPATION FORM
Authentic Israel has established a kupah system for distributing spending money to students. The idea
of the kupah is that parents send funds to the Authentic Israel office ahead of the program. Those
funds are then converted to Israeli shekels, held by our bus staff and checked out by the students
during designated times throughout the trip.
Parents who wish to take part in the kupah system should send a check made out to Authentic Israel at
5185 MacArthur Blvd, NW #640 / Washington, DC 20016 by no later than March 31, 2017. Funds will
be converted to Israeli currency on roughly April 5, 2017 at the prevailing exchange rate. A $10 per
participant convenience fee will be deducted from the kupah check. Any leftover funds will be
returned to the participant at the end of the program in local currency. Parents wishing to remit Kupah
funds by credit card may do so with an additional 4.5% payment processing fee.
Students who did not send in their spending moneys in advance will need to take full responsibility for
their own funds. Staff will not hold money for students nor will they serve as money changers.
Name of Student: ____________________________________________________________
Name(s) of Parent/Guardian: ___________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Phone: _______________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Email: ________________________________________________________
Parents participating in the kupah system will receive a personal confirmation message via email.
Should you have any questions, please contact 1-202-537-6056.
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WAIVER & RELEASE OF LIABILITY
I have voluntarily applied to be a Participant on the Gesher 2017 Class Israel Trip (“Program”), a
program organized by the Carmel Academy, the Rockwern Academy, the Gottesman RTW Academy,
and the Hannah Senesh Community Day School along with Authentic Israel (“Organizers”).
Standards of Conduct
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I understand that Participants on the Program are expected to abide by the directions of Program
staff, all Program rules, the current laws of the United States and/or local laws of Israel.
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I understand that without advanced Program approval, no Participant is allowed to leave the
Program for any purpose or at any time.
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I understand that no guests are allowed on the Program without Program staff’s prior approval.
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I understand that curfew means Participants must be in their assigned rooms with lights out and
ready for bed. Additionally, I understand that Participants may not leave their room between the
start of curfew and wake up.
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I understand all Programs, workshops, services, meetings and meals are mandatory. I will review
and follow the Program schedule and will remain in appropriately staffed and/or authorized areas.
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I understand that at no time will any males be allowed to enter a females sleeping area nor females
be allowed to enter males. Additionally, Program staff may designate areas as “single-sex” and these
areas are off-limits to Participants of the opposite gender.
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I understand the use or possession of fireworks, firearms, alcohol, tobacco, illegally controlled
substances or other prescription drug(s) without valid prescription, fighting, intimidation, bullying,
or gambling will result in expulsion.
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I understand that smoking is expressly prohibited on the Program.
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I understand I am to be respectful of and towards my peers, professional staff and supporting staff.
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I understand that if I become aware of any conduct by any Participant which I believe is illegal or
creates a risk of harm to any individual, I will immediately report the incident to Program staff.
I understand that my failure to uphold these policies may result in discipline, including immediate
termination of my participation in the Program. I also understand that the staff, as they deem
appropriate in their sole discretion, reserve the right (but do not have the obligation) to search my
person and/or belongings and to take such action (or to refrain from such action) at they deem
appropriate for my safety and/or others and/or to ensure compliance with the Program rules.
Consequences of Expulsion. I understand that in the event I am expelled from the Program, I will not
be entitled to any refund of paid Program fees or costs and that all travel arrangements, costs and
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8th Grade Class Israel Experience
liabilities (including escort costs, if applicable) associated with being sent home will be the sole
responsibility of me and my parent/legal guardian, which must be paid up-front. I further understand
that in such circumstances it shall be the sole responsibility of my parent/legal guardian to make
immediate arrangements to pick me up at the location designated by Program staff. I further agree
that in the Organizers incur any costs, expenses or liabilities for which I or my parent/legal guardian are
responsible, and which are not covered or paid for by the credit card on record, the Program
organizers reserves the right to pursue collection of such costs, expenses and/or liabilities through
appropriate collection agency proceedings. In the event I am expelled from the Program, I understand
that the Organizers reserve the right to make travel arrangements for my return to the originating
gateway city airport (i.e. the city from which the group travel originated) and to place me on a flight as
an unaccompanied minor, unless other arrangements, satisfactory to the Organizers, are made with
the consent of my parents/guardians.
Medical Contingencies and Consent to Treat. I agree that, if I become ill or incapacitated, the
Organizers may take any action deemed necessary for my safety and well-being, including securing
medical treatment (at my own expense) and making arrangements for transporting me home. I
understand that in such instances I will not be entitled to any refund of paid Program fees or costs and
that all travel arrangements, costs and liabilities associated with being sent home, including the cost of
an escort, will be the sole responsibility of me and my parent/legal guardian. I hereby authorize the
Organizers to charge all such travel arrangements, costs and liabilities to the credit card on record with
the Organizers or to collect payment through other means if a valid credit card is not on file. I
represent and warrant that I am and will be covered throughout the Program by a policy of
comprehensive health and accident insurance which provides coverage within the countries included
in the Program for injuries and illnesses I may sustain or experience while participating in the Program.
I understand that in some countries the provision of available healthcare services may not meet the
standards to which I am accustomed. I further understand that in the event I may need medical care, I
may be taken to and receive care from local clinics at the sole discretion of the Organizers. In some
instances, healthcare facilities expect upfront payment. I understand that I am responsible for all such
payments, whether upfront or otherwise, and I have been advised that I should have access to
travelers’ checks or a credit card at all times while in such countries in case of a medical emergency.
Travel Documentation and Preparedness. I understand that it is my responsibility to secure the
necessary travel documents, including a passport and any other documents required by the country to
which I am traveling, and that failure to do so will most likely not constitute grounds for a refund. I
further understand that I am responsible for following all preventive measures recommended by the
United States Center for Disease Control for travel to and within such countries.
Modifications to the Itinerary. I understand that projected itinerary and/or program description
included in any marketing material is subject to change at the sole discretion of the Organizers. I
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further understand that any itinerary documentation distributed as part of pre-trip preparation
materials is also subject to reasonable change at the sole discretion of the Organizers
Property and Financial Responsibility. I understand that I will be required to pay for any phone calls or
incidental personal expenses that I incur while participating in the Program, as well as for any damage I
cause to property of others. Further, I understand that the Organizers bear no responsibility for any
items rented or acquired through our partners. Cell phone rentals are the sole responsibility of the
Participant. The Organizers are not responsible for any lost or stolen cell phones or any unauthorized
calls made on a rented cell phone. It is the responsibility of the Participant to notify the cell phone
company directly of any issues relating to the cell phone, including damage, theft, unwanted calls, etc.
Participants are encouraged not to bring valuable items on the Program. I agree to indemnify and hold
harmless the Organizers from any financial liability or obligation which I personally incur, or for any
injury or damage to the person or property of others which I cause or contribute to, while participating
in the Program. I understand that the Organizers shall not be liable for any of my property (whether
owned or rented) which is damaged, lost or stolen throughout the duration of the Program.
Travel Associated Risk. I understand that there are risks associated with my participation, including
risks associated with general touring activities, outdoors activities, sporting activities, overnight stays,
transportation and travel, including but not limited to increased security and safety risks due to the
prevalence of crime, political conflict, and limited availability of medical facilities that meet standards
to which I am accustomed. I hereby acknowledge and accept the nature of the Program may expose
me to hazards or risks that may result in my illness or personal injury. I hereby unconditionally release
and forever discharge the Organizers and each of their respective affiliated entities, governing boards,
trustees, directors, officers, employees, chaperones, administrators, attorneys, agents, insurers,
representatives and any other person acting by, through, under or in concert with any of such persons
or entities, and their successors and assigns (collectively referred to herein as the “Organizers”), from
any and all liability to me, all members of my family, my personal representatives, estate, executors,
administrators, heirs, next of kin and successors and assigns for any and all claims and causes of action
for loss of or damage to my property (either owned or rented by me) and for any and all illness or
injury to my person, including my death, that may result from or occur during and/or related to my
participation in the Program, whether caused by the intentional acts, negligence or carelessness of any
person or entity, including but not limited to any claims for negligent supervision and/or negligent
provision of medical care. This release applies to all unknown, unforeseen, unanticipated, and
unsuspected injuries, damages, loss and liability, and the consequences thereof, occurring in
connection with and/or in any way related to my participation in the Programs at any time after the
execution of this Waiver and Release of Liability. I agree that the Organizers are not responsible or
liable for any injury, damage, loss, costs, refunds, expense, accident, delay, scheduling changes,
cancellation or other irregularity which may be caused by third party travel companies or the
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8th Grade Class Israel Experience
transportation carriers or other companies or persons engaged in providing or performing any of the
services involved in the Program or that may otherwise occur.
If any provision of this Waiver and Release of Liability shall be found to be unenforceable, then a court
making such determination shall have the authority to narrow the provision, which shall be
enforceable in its narrowed form. Moreover, each provision is independent and severable from each
other, so in the event any portion is found unenforceable and not modified, then the remainder shall
remain in full force and effect. Any and all disputes between the parties arising out of or relating to this
agreement, whether grounded in contract, tort or statutory law, shall be resolved exclusively by
arbitration in Washington, DC. The arbitration shall be conducted in accordance with the Dispute
Resolution Rules of JAMS. The prevailing party in the arbitration shall be entitled to its attorneys’ fees
and costs plus any fees and costs incurred in connection with confirming the arbitrator’s award.
To be completed for by the Participant:
I hereby acknowledge that I have fully read, understood, and accepted each of the above provisions,
including the Program’s Code of Conduct. I acknowledge that this Waiver and Release of Liability
includes a release of liability which legally prevents me or any other person from filing suit, or making
other claims for damages, in the event of death, personal injury, or property damage.
Name of Participant: ___________________________________
Signature of Participant: ________________________________
Date: _____________
To be completed for by Parent/Legal Guardian of the Participant:
I, the undersigned parent or legal guardian of the Participant named in this Waiver and Release of
Liability hereby acknowledge that I have the authority to execute this Waiver and Release of Liability
and to make decisions with respect to the Participant and assume responsibility for the actions or
inactions of the Participant. I have had the opportunity to consult with an attorney at my own expense
to discuss and review the terms of this Waiver and Release of Liability. I hereby acknowledge that I
have read and understand the terms of the Waiver and Release of Liability and voluntarily agree on
behalf of the Participant named in the Waiver and Release of Liability and all other family members,
heirs, estate, executors, administrators, personal representatives, next of kin and their successors and
assigns, to be bound by all of the terms and conditions set forth herein, including the full and
unconditional release contained herein, and the responsibility for all travel arrangements, costs and
liabilities associated with the Participant being sent home and/or expelled from the Program to the
same extent as such terms and conditions apply to the Participant therein.
Name of Parent/Legal Guardian: ____________________________
Signature of Parent/Legal Guardian: ________________________________
Date: ____________