gap year in israel
Ethiopia
SPRING SEMESTER | 5 DAYS

Ethiopia

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 humanity. Our trip to Ethiopia will combine history, culture, food, and Zionism.

History, culture, food, Zionism. Africa.

What: The 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.

 

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Ethiopia

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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.

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