Ethiopia
History, culture, food, Zionism. Africa.
What: Considered by many to be the cradle of human history, you will explore Ethiopia through its history, culture, food and learn about a unique group of Jews that claims to be one of the “lost Tribes of Israel.” While visiting Gondar, in the north of the country, you will encounter people living in mud huts yet also practicing Judaism as they wait to be approved for aliya to Israel. While in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, you will visit the Israeli Embassy and learn about the process of resettling an entire community of people unaccustomed with the Western World through two daring Israeli operations – Moses and Solomon. You’ll also meet Dr. Rick Hodes, an American Jewish doctor, who has dedicated his life to saving thousands of people in Ethiopia. Topping off the trip will be seeing the oldest humanoid at the National Museum, feasting on traditional Ethiopian food, enjoying traditional singing and dancing, and meeting up close with some of Africa’s wildlife.
Why: Ethiopia conjures up all sorts of images for people: Ethiopian priests, starving children, stunning landscapes, and ancient cities. For us, it is the images of the Lost Tribe of Israel coming home. Tens of thousands of Jews made Aliyah from Ethiopia since the mid-1980’s and changed the face of Israel today. The story of the Ethiopian Jewish community is staunchly Zionist and truly inspiring. Israel maintains strong ties with Ethiopia and we’ll learn all about that relationship and the future it holds. Through a visit to this third-world country, you will gain a new perspective and appreciation on all that you have as well.
More International Trips Available
Spain
Fall Semester — 5 Days
Today, Barcelona is one of Europe’s most exciting cities. From its wacky architecture to its vibrant sidewalks to great Rabbis and to great tragedies, the region of Catalonia is a great destination for learning about the Spanish Jewish community, which experienced both a Golden Age and a brutal inquisition.
United Arab Emirates
FALL SEMESTER — 5 DAYS
Ethiopia
Spring Semester — 5 Days
Ethiopia, the only African country to have escaped European colonialism, has retained much of its authentic, ancient cultural identity and is considered by many to be the cradle of humanity. Our trip to Ethiopia will combine history, culture, food, and Zionism.
Poland
End of Spring Semester — 6 Days
For centuries, the Jewish people had a vibrant religious and cultural life in Poland until the destruction of the community in the Holocaust. This trip will explore that rich history, understand its eventual destruction, and also look at the re-birth of the Jewish community and of Poland itself.
Italy
Spring Semester — 5 Days
From art to food to politics, Italy’s impact on the world has been immense. A place of olive oil, pasta, wine, mafia, sunshine, Roman ruins, and Renaissance palaces, and a centuries-old Jewish community, Italy is one place you can never forget!
USA Plus Summer Camp
Spring semester — 2 Months
Combine your experience in Israel with a summer working at an American Jewish Summer Camp (particularly relevant for non-American participants). Start off the trip with six days exploring Washington, D.C. and New York City!
