From the Galilee Peaks to the Big Switch.
Dear Aardvark Israel Family,
This week we went on one of our flagship trips, which also (not by chance) happens to be one of the final trips of the semester: two days in the Galilee at its very best – with challenging hikes and a journey into the past at ancient Beit She’an
Hiking Through the Breathtaking Landscapes of the Galilee
Monday morning started early: buses from Jerusalem and Tel Aviv met at the Megiddo junction before splitting into three hiking groups by level – a great chance to catch up with friends from other communities.
Our routes took us through the Beit She’an Valley area: Ein Moda, Nahal Shelef, and Tel Megiddo. The Galilee in winter is Israel at its greenest, and our students got to experience it in full.
Three Communities - Three Colors - One Winner
In the evening, it was time for our Color War. Each community received a color – Barak (Red), Ofek (Yellow), and Eitan (Green) – and faced challenges that required creativity, planning, and above all, teamwork.
“The moment we won was incredible! We’re such a tight-knit community and that definitely helped us. After a whole semester together, we know each other so well… the win brought us even closer. And the prize? An ice-cream night with my best friends. Totally worth it!” – Isaac, Barak Community
“The energy was electric. I loved cheering and dancing with my community… I discovered a leadership side of myself – even though we didn’t win, I feel like I led the group really well.” – Ariella, Eitan Community
Ancient Beit She’an: A Mikveh Beside Roman Bathhouses
“It’s amazing to see this. I’ve been here several times and still, every time I’m surprised to see a Roman city in the middle of Beit She’an.” – Naor, Madricha
After the tour of the ruins, we went on another hike in the Sea of Galilee region.
“The nature around us was so special…what surprised me most was learning that the forest above the Kinneret is man-made, created to prevent floods in Tiberias. It was beautiful to see how nature can be used to solve challenges.” – Charles, Ofek Community
What’s Next: Getting Ready for the Big Switch
As we say goodbye to our Fall semester students and wrap up an incredible few months together, we’re already looking ahead to what’s next for our Year Program students.
In just a few weeks, something exciting is happening: the Tel Aviv students will become Jerusalemites, and the Jerusalem students will switch to Tel Aviv. This is one of the things that makes Aardvark unique – living in two cities and experiencing the different rhythms of life in Israel.
“The move is really exciting for me. After three months in Tel Aviv, I already feel like part of it… I’m curious to discover new things, explore Jerusalem’s hidden gems – and finally pull out the beautiful winter clothes I brought with me.” – Adi, Ofek Community
The spring semester begins on January 6, and we’re already excited to welcome the new students joining the Aardvark Israel family.