SAN DIEGO (Press Release) — With the latest predictions suggesting Israel’s tourism industry could lose up to $1.16 billion due to the COVID-19 crisis, Jewish National Fund-USA (JNF-USA) is helping Israeli tour guides through an innovative new “virtual travel” initiative. A group of San Diegans embarked on this novel experience and returned with wide eyes and open hearts. Led by JNF-USA First Lady and San Diego Board Member Lauren Lizerbram, the group “traveled” from north to south and saw unique and captivating Israeli sites.
In launching JNF Virtual Travel & Tours, the organization’s travel department is offering seats on virtual tour buses to some of Israel’s iconic and lesser known travel destinations. Current itineraries include visits to the Old City of Jerusalem, Ayalon Institute, Akko, Be’er Sheva, and the JNF Sderot Indoor Recreation Center.
The group from San Diego had an enriching experience and even those who have been to Israel many times before saw something new. Among the highlights of the trip were a visit to Bet She’an to see the Roman ruins, a tour of the Western Wall Tunnels, hearing the story of Jerusalem’s reunification at Ammunition Hill, seeing kids play safely in JNF’s Sderot Indoor Playground which houses the C. Hugh Friedman Music Program, and taking a boat ride through the Dead Sea – a truly once in a lifetime experience.
“It’s nearly impossible to pinpoint a favorite part of the trip. The entire experience was emotional and educational,” said Lizerbram. “We had a wonderful, knowledgeable, and captivating guide. We saw new places and reflected on memories we’ve created in the locations we’ve visited before. It was truly impactful and inspiring for the entire bus.”
The virtual buses have seating for up to 22 participants and include a licensed Israeli tour guide, lay chair, as well as a professional JNF-USA staff member. A $50 registration fee covers one hour of touring and a nightly social dinner and cocktail hour taking place Monday through Thursday. On Friday, tourists participate in a beautiful pre-shabbat experience.
“The beauty of these tours is that they allow us to directly support Israel’s tour guides while also renewing our connection to our beloved Israel,” said JNF-USA National Campaign Director, Sharon Joy. “I’m excited that participants experienced the magic of Israel virtually at a time when we are all yearning to visit in person. And thanks to the expert insights from our Israeli tour guides, we learned about our homeland in a whole new light.”
“This was such a fun and unconventional way to experience tourism, all while continuing Jewish National Fund’s vision of supporting the land and people of Israel,” added Lizerbram.
Jewish National Fund-USA is the leading philanthropic organization for Israel that supports critical environmental and nation-building activities in Israel’s north and south. Through its One Billion Dollar Roadmap for the Next Decade, Jewish National Fund-USA is developing new communities in the Galilee and Negev, connecting the next generation to Israel, and creating infrastructure for ecology, special needs, and heritage preservation.
To join a virtual trip, or find out more information on JNF’s Virtual Travel & Tours, visit jnf.org/virtualtours or contact JNF-USA’s San Diego Director Monica Edelman at medelman@jnf.org or 858.824.9178.
*
Preceding provided by Jewish National Fund