Sign In Forgot Password
Home

Israel Trip 2026

Am Yisrael Chai: Nourishing the Body and Soul Through Judaism, Music, Food, and Culture

✈️ We’re headed to Israel! Join Rabbi Chaitovsky and Patrick Amar as they introduce us to Nourishing the Body and Soul Through Judaism. Music, Food, and Culture. Experience the richness of Israel through a journey that combines culture, history, and community. Taste some of the best kosher cuisine from across the country, highlighting the incredible diversity of Jewish culinary traditions—from Moroccan and African flavors to Druze specialties. Enjoy music and art rooted in Jewish mysticism and culture, visit historic landmarks, and participate in volunteer and rebuilding projects that make a real difference. Guided by Rabbi Chaitovsky's Judaic insights and commentary, you’ll develop a vivid connection to the land and its people. Led by Patrick Amar, explore from the North to the South, spend a meaningful Shabbat weekend in Jerusalem, and visit our sister region in Ramat HaNegev to meet its inspiring residents and leaders.

Meet Your Travel Team

Patrick Amar

Patrick Amar is the founder of the Israel Executive Touring Center (Israel ETC) — created to give travelers the chance to experience Israel in a way that inspires, excites, and connects them deeply to the land and its people.

Originally from Montreal, Canada, Patrick grew up speaking both French and English and first discovered his love for Israel as a university student on group trips. What began as a personal journey soon turned into leadership roles and, ultimately, a lifelong calling. After visiting countless times, Patrick made Israel his home.

With nearly a decade of experience leading groups, Patrick pursued formal training through the rigorous two-year Israel Guide’s Course. Licensed by Israel’s Ministry of Tourism, he brings a wealth of knowledge across subjects — from geography and politics to history, religion, and culture.

Since becoming a guide, Patrick has led hundreds of travelers — from first-timers to seasoned visitors — on unforgettable journeys throughout the Land of Israel. His dynamic storytelling, humor, and deep passion for connecting people to Israel make every experience unique and meaningful.

Join Patrick and the Israel ETC team for a journey that will leave you inspired and longing to return — a true trip of a lifetime.

Rabbi Emeritus Yaakov Chaitovsky

Rabbi Yaakov Chaitovsky was born in Philadelphia and received his rabbinic ordination from Yeshiva University. He began his rabbinic career at Baltimore’s Beth Tfiloh Congregagtion and then served Annapolis, MD’s Knesseth Israel Congregation. He spent 10 summers on the rabbinical staff of the B’nai B’rith Leadership Kallah in Starlight, Pennsylvania. Rabbi Chaitovsky also received his Juris Doctorate from the University of Maryland School of Law.

Rabbi Chaitovsky is the spiritual leader of our amazing trip. He will offer “color” commentary throughout the trip to supplement that of our expert guide, Patrick Amar. His goal is help each participant discover and intensify their connection to Eretz Yisrael - the land of Israel and Am Yisrael, the people of Israel through the various sites we visit, the music we hear, the art we see, the food we taste, and, of course, the people we meet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Trip Dates: March 9–17, 2026 • Theme: Am Yisrael Chai: Nourishing the body and soul through Judaism, Music, Food, and Culture

When is the trip, and where do we start?
The trip runs March 9–17, 2026. We will meet at Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) on March 9 to begin our journey together, traveling across Israel from north to south and concluding with a meaningful Shabbat weekend in Jerusalem. To arrive in Tel Aviv on the 9th, you will need to leave Denver (or other locations) on or before the 8th. 
Who is leading the trip?
The trip is led by Rabbi Chai—providing Judaic background and commentary throughout and Patrick Amar, a licensed Israeli tour guide and founder of Israel Executive Touring Center (Israel ETC). Together they bring Israel’s history, culture, and community to life.
What’s included?
  • Local transportation in a comfortable bus
  • 4- and 5-star hotel accommodations
  • Daily kosher meals (daily breakfasts, eight dinners, and lunches as listed in the itinerary)
  • Site visits, briefings, and guided tours across Israel
  • Hands-on volunteer and rebuilding projects
  • Payment plan options
  • Security presence throughout the trip
Note: Itinerary and specific stops are subject to change.
What makes this trip unique?
This journey blends Jewish learning, music, art, food, and community. Taste the diversity of Israel’s kosher cuisine—Moroccan, African, Druze and more—experience music and art rooted in Jewish mysticism and culture, and engage in impactful volunteer work that connects you to the people of the land. We’ll also visit our sister region, Ramat HaNegev, and meet local residents and leaders.
Are there volunteer opportunities?
Yes. You’ll participate in meaningful volunteer and rebuilding projects with local partners, contributing in a tangible way while gaining deeper insight into Israeli life.
How do payments and refunds work?
  • Deposit: $500 per person, non-refundable, required to reserve your spot.
  • Payment plans: Available; final balance due two weeks before departure.
  • Refunds: Up to 50% refundable until 30 days before departure. After that, the trip is non-refundable.
  • Timing: Please submit your deposit by January 8, 2026, to secure your place.
Space is limited—early registration is encouraged.
Will there be pre-trip meetings?
Yes. We will host two informational sessions to review itinerary, costs, and specifics:
  • Information Meeting 1: Monday, November 17 at 7:00 PM
  • Information Meeting 2: Monday, December 8 at 7:00 PM

We will also host a series of Participant Sessions with engaging classes and specific trip information.

Participant sessions on Tuesdays, January 20th and February 3rd at 7:00 PM in person in the Gallery, beginning our deep dive into our relationship with the Land of Israel, Eretz Israel, and the People of Israel, Am Israel. The final session before our incredible trip will be a special dinner on Friday night, February 20th, at the home of Rabbi Chaitovsky.

(Look for email updates in TouchPoints Events and TouchPoints Shabbat; dates subject to confirmation.)

How is safety handled during the trip?
Your safety and peace of mind are our top priorities. Our itinerary and partner sites are carefully selected with guidance from local authorities. We travel on private, air-conditioned buses with security accompanying the group during all excursions.

This is standard for organized group travel in Israel and ensures that participants can relax and fully enjoy every moment of the journey while knowing all safety measures are in place.
Is the itinerary final?
The itinerary is carefully planned to balance learning, culture, cuisine, and community impact. All itineraries are subject to change based on logistics, safety guidance, and partner availability—we’ll always optimize for comfort and the best experience.
How do I register or get more information?
For more information, contact Barbara Snyder at (303) 482-5919 or email her at barbarasnyder63@comcast.net 
What documents do I need?

All participants must have a valid passport with at least six months of validity beyond the return date. U.S. citizens do not need a visa for short-term tourist travel to Israel, but those with non-U.S. passports should verify requirements with the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

In addition, we strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance, including trip cancellation, trip interruption, and baggage coverage. All participants are also required to have international health insurance, as many U.S. policies do not cover medical care abroad. Please confirm your coverage or secure supplemental international health insurance before traveling.

If you have any questions, research online or reach out to a travel agent. A great resource for an agent is Lizette Steinberg, she is a travel agent and past Denver resident, currently living in Israel. Her phone number is (303) 893-1818. 

Tue, November 18 2025 27 Cheshvan 5786