gap year in israel
Germany
SPRING SEMESTER | 5 DAYS
(Relevant for 2023-2024 only)

Germany

It may not exactly be everyone’s first choice when thinking about Jewish tourism. And yet, Germany has played an extremely large part in Jewish history and is a country that has made tremendous changes the last few decades.

The meeting place of a brutal past and a vibrant present

What: Berlin’s unique combination of grit and glamor makes for a vibrant culture with a palpable history. Hear the stories, see the graffiti, taste the local cuisine, and take advantage of all that this modern European city has to offer. As you explore the hip city of Berlin, you will also encounter the remnants of the Jewish community which once existed and meet those who are engaged in rebuilding it. By visiting the Sachsenhausen Memorial and Museum at this former concentration camp, you will also confront one of the most difficult times in our history. Encountering darkness and light, your visit to Germany will guide you to ask questions about social responsibility then and now.

Why: Germany today is a strong democracy and one of the few strong supporters of Israel in the world. It has one of the largest, and fastest growing, Jewish communities in Europe and has even become home to many Israelis (believe it or not!) It is important to expose our youth to the reality of Germany today balanced with a clear analysis of Germany’s past.

More International Trips Available

Czech republic

Czech Republic

Fall Semester — 5 Days

(Relevant for 2023-2024 only)

Prague, capital of the Czech Republic, has emerged as a vibrant and exciting urban center after long years hidden and stifled behind the Iron Curtain. Renowned for its heritage, Prague has been venerated with titles such as “the city of a hundred spires” and “Golden Prague.”
Ethiopia

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.

Germany

Germany

Spring Semester — 5 Days

(Relevant for 2023-2024 only)

It may not exactly be everyone’s first choice when thinking about Jewish tourism. And yet, Germany has played an extremely large part in Jewish history and is a country that has made tremendous changes the last few decades.
Gap year in israel - aardvarkisrael

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!
Poland

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.

Gap year in israel - aardvarkisrael

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

United Arab Emirates

FALL SEMESTER — 5 DAYS

The United Arab Emirates (UAE), located on the Arabian Peninsula, opened its doors to Israeli travelers in 2022 as part of the Abraham Accords. The UAE offers a glimpse of the magical places, the mysterious landscapes, and the prestigious buildings of the Middle East, including the tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa. Get to know the Arab world through an authentic, innovative experience.
Usa plus summer camp

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!