GoIsrael Community

 

Hi,

I'm going to be in Israel for Yom Kippur and Sukot. Last time in Israel was 11+ years ago. It will be my kid's first trip (way over due) and I will be based in Jerusalem. I really want to pre plan things to the max so I can deliver a trip to Israel like the ones my parents gave me. I have a couple of questions. 

1. Do I need to buy "tickets" to a Shul for Yom Kippur and any ideals where to go? (The Great Synagogue of Jerusalem would make me throw up. I need an OU or Young Israel type shul around the King David Hotel that has air conditioning and going to have a few hours break unlike The Great Synagogue)

2. From Jerusalem could I do Masada, Ded Sea, Ein Gedi in one day and come back to Jerusalem. Also, in which order if I'm driving myself? Am I going to survive it with a 7 and 10 year old? 

3. For the Western wall tunnels : Do I really need to book two months in advance as recommended or could I find a tour in the Jewish Quarter that sell it on a daily basis? If I remember correctly there is a building in the Jewish Quarter next to the Cardo that sets up tours of the Old City, could I walk in there and get tickets for that day?  

Thank for the help,

 

David

 just curious if anyone answered your questions- I have the same queation - as I am also travelling to Israel with my kids for Yom Kippur and sukkot.

Please pass on..

Thanks,

Lacey

 

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Hi David,

(Lacey- I hope I'll answer your question as well…)

I just saw your questions at goIsrael- so sorry I didn't reply before.

Regarding your questions:

1.     I recommend you to contact the hotel that you are staying so they advise you about that, as an event producer for overseas Jews I know Jerusalem really well but on holidays it's a different reality and I don't want to advise you wrong info.

2.     You can go and visit Masada, Ded Sea, Ein Gedi on one day- I recommend to be in Masada during the sunrise- a very nice experience, so make sure your driver/ your guide (or will you rent your own car)- will leave Jerusalem early. Regarding your kids- will you be with them alone? Do you need help with anything? Maybe the hotel can give you an assistant for this day for extra charge?

3.     Western wall tunnels- it's a busy site. I recommend you to ask the great tour guide Danny Herman - http://www.dannythedigger.com/ with his knowledge and experience he might be able to help you. (as well for the Masada tour)

I wish you a great time in Israel and don't hesitate to contact me for any other questions you'll might have to my private email.

Adi 

Event Producer in Israel- Simcha Maker

 Event Production in Israel

I suggest you try googling synagogues in Jerusalem and contacting them directly. Many have webpages. Also, depending upon where you are staying ( okay, the KIng David) there may be services in the hotel or a nearby hotel. Alternatively, if you reservations are booked--try contacting the concierge of the hotel for assistance. re: a/c it is now 2009--it is rare to find a shul without a/c ( although it may not be as strong as you like!) RE: the Western Wall tunnels--it IS really necessary to book in advance. AND you are coming during what hopefully will be a very busy period. You are referring to Archeological Seminars http://www.archesem.com/index.htm, and they no longer do the group type tours you remember. Zion Walking tours ( near the Jaffa Gate) DOES do a walking tour that includes the tunnels BUT they caution that the entrance to the tunnels is limited.So, even if you find a tour that theoretically includes, the tour may be booked. Call and make a reservation!!! You will survive with your two kids--but don't forget looking at lots of archeological stuff is going to be repetitive and boring for them. I suggest you start looking for kid friendly stuff too. ( I am sure there will be activities listed closer to your departure time) Consider the Time Elevator in Jerusalem. Consider the Ir David sorting through material removed from the Temple Mount and dumped in the Kidron Valley, consider a day at the beach or a water park.

Great advice! Finding kid-friendly things to do can be challenging but so worth the effort. I'm sure you will be putting together a trip your family will have many fond memories of! Jenny

This was a great post. For those of us looking to travel with kids, it's so important to be well-informed and well ahead of the game with things they might be interested in. I am planning a trip to Israel next year and we have a 4 1/2 year old. I will be saving this post so I can use the information when the time comes to plan! Thank you for all of the help! Jenny

This was a nice post. For those of us looking to travel with kids.

 

Natural Colon Cleanse

 

Hi David,

This is exactly why I created my blog www.funinjerusalem.com to help people plan their family trips. The site has a full list of kids attractions in Jerusalem (the FUN List) and a daily calendar of events at all the museums, malls, theaters etc. We have a post about succot activities coming out next week. There is so much going on here in Jerusalem. I know you will have a great time.

-Joanna info@funinjerusalem.com