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A visit to Israel is a must for every Jewish person. The BIE is highly encouraged for those who have never visited, visited once or even multiple times. We look forward to sharing new experiences with you on the next BIE this October. You won’t be disappointed!

Robin Raphael & Alan Gellin

BIE II Co-Chairs

FAQs


What are the COVID requirements?

We will follow COVID requirements determined by the Israel Ministry of Health and the Government of Canada for those traveling through Toronto.  All participants must be fully vaccinated in the 180 days prior to departure, be able to show proof of vaccination, and provide a negative COVID test within 72 hours of travel to Israel. The cost for testing in the United States is at the participant’s expense.  Testing, if needed while in Israel is included in the trip cost.  These requirements are subject to change based on recommendations from the Israel Ministry of Health and the Government of Canada.

Can I book my own flights?

Yes! The land only cost for the Buffalo Israel Experience will be $3,500/person (double occupancy). If you plan to arrange your own air travel, you will be responsible for meeting the group in Israel (early afternoon in Jerusalem on Thursday, October 20) and all additional costs. If you would like to travel to Israel with the group and extend your stay, please contact our travel agent, Anjie Huffman at Ayelet Tours (anjie@ayelet.com or 1-800-237-1517 x340). You will be responsible for all additional costs.

What flights will the group take?

There are two group flight options at the cost of $1,450/person:

  • Depart from the US via United Airlines
  • Depart from Canada via Air Canada (transportation to airport included)

At this time, the group flight options are now closed.  Please contact Stacey Block to discuss other options.

Should I get a new passport?

To enter Israel, a passport valid for a minimum of 6 months from the date of entry is required.

Should I purchase travel insurance & supplemental medical coverage?

Yes! We urge you to purchase cancellation insurance & supplemental medical coverage (which covers preexisting conditions).  This is a smart way to safeguard against life’s surprises.

We recommend Travel Insured International for all your travel insurance needs.
Website: https://www.travelinsured.com/
Phone Number: 1-800-243-3174

What are the hotel accommodations?

We will be staying in the following hotels throughout the Buffalo Israel Experience:

Dan Panorama Hotel, Jerusalem (4 nights)
Dan Panorama Hotel, Haifa (1 night)
Dan Panorama Hotel, Tel Aviv (3 nights)

What is not included in the cost of the trip?

There are many opportunities to dine on your own throughout the Buffalo Israel Experience. You will be responsible for the cost of these meals. You will also be responsible for any COVID PCR & Serological testing in the United States that is required prior to traveling to Israel, passport charges, any additional costs incurred from travel extensions, and for all tips and gratuities. Please note that it is customary to provide tips for the tour guides and bus drivers; the total cost is approximately $10.00 per day per person.

What is the payment and refund schedule?
PAYMENT SCHEDULE

Deposit of $500 per person due at time of registration
50% of Payment July 15, 2022
Full Payment September 15, 2022
$500 deposit per person and completed registration due by April 15, 2022 to guarantee your spot on the trip and group transportation.

REFUND SCHEDULE

Deposit is fully refundable until July 15, 2022
Cancel by August 1, 2022 – Full Refund
Cancel between August 2 and September 14, 2022 – 75% of amount paid
Cancel between September 15 and October 1, 2022 – 50% of amount paid
Cancel between October 2 and October 10, 2022 – 25% of amount paid
Cancel after October 10, 2022 – No Refund

When is payment due?

Payment in full for all participants is required by September 15, 2022. 50% payment of cost due by July 15, 2022.

Can I pay on a payment plan?

The Buffalo Jewish Federation does not offer payment plans. Please contact Stacey Block (stacey@buffalojewishfederation.org) to have a confidential conversation about financial options.

Can I bring my children on the Buffalo Israel Experience?

All are welcome.

Who will be our tour guides?

We will be led by some of the best guides in Israel, including Ezra Korman and the Makor team.

Will there be a meeting in Buffalo before we travel to Israel?

Yes, there will be at least one (possibly two) gatherings in Buffalo before we depart on October 19, 2022.

Will there be free time to visit my family or shop?
Yes! There will be a variety of different times throughout The Buffalo Israel Experience when you can explore Israel on your own. These will be great times to meet a family member for dinner or shop! Alternatively, our travel agent can help you extend your stay in Israel.
Will I have time to exercise?
There will be free time in the evening and time before breakfast to walk, run or take advantage of the hotel fitness facilities.
Questions? Contact Stacey Block
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