The Community Trip 2027

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Overview

The Community Trip 2027
Israel
May 18 - 25, 2027
Jewish Federation of San Diego image
Jewish Federation of San Diego
$5,400
Deposit: $500

About this trip

A JOURNEY THAT INSPIRES. A CONNECTION THAT ENDURES.

Embark with us on a journey to Israel and beyond, curated especially for adults ages 18+, to explore, connect, and celebrate Jewish life together. Whether it’s your first time in Israel or you’re coming back to a place you love, this experience is built for real moments, fresh perspectives, and the kind of community that stays with you long after you’re home.

Visiting our sister city of Sha’ar HaNegev won’t just be a stop on the itinerary, it will be time spent with the people who call it home, sharing meals around the table, listening to stories firsthand, showing up for one another like family, and creating moments of meaning that feel deeply personal and lasting.

Along the way, discover Israel through exclusive access and insider encounters only Federation can offer, from Tel Aviv’s innovation and electric energy to Jerusalem’s inspiration and soul, while forging lifelong friendships with fellow San Diegans who share your passion, purpose, and heart.

Extend the magic with an optional add-on to Budapest, where you’ll experience the city’s vibrant Jewish life today while exploring Jewish heritage, resilience, and renewal through its culture, cuisine, architecture, and community. From lively neighborhoods and unforgettable flavors to local encounters and shared Shabbat moments, Budapest offers an energizing, joyful way to continue the journey in one of Europe’s most beautiful and vibrant cities.

This is more than a trip, it’s where community becomes connection and connection becomes lifelong. We hope you’ll join us.

Trip Pricing and Payments

Pricing
We’re offering two pricing options to keep the trip accessible to as many people as possible, while also giving those who are able, the option to pay the full cost and help extend financial support to others.

  • Subsidized rate: This option is made possible through communal funds and philanthropic partners that help reduce the true cost of the experience.

  • Unsubsidized rate: This option reflects the full, actual land cost of the trip.

Participants may choose the rate that feels right for them. Some may prefer to take advantage of the subsidized rate; others may choose the unsubsidized rate so the subsidy can help support additional participants. Either choice has no impact on your eligibility or experience, and all participants will receive the exact same trip, programming, and accommodations.

Payment Schedule

Payments will begin on September 1, 2026, and will be made in four installments according to the schedule below. If you would like to begin payments earlier to lower the amount of each installment, please contact us. We would be happy to work with you to adjust the schedule to better fit your needs.

  • 1st Payment: September 1, 2026

  • 2nd Payment: November 1, 2026

  • 3rd Payment: January 1, 2027

  • Final Payment: March 1, 2027

Cancellation & Refund Policy

All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing. Refunds, if applicable, will be issued according to the schedule below:

  • By September 1, 2026: Deposit is non-refundable

  • By October 1, 2026: 20% of total program cost is non-refundable

  • By January 1, 2027: 50% of total program cost is non-refundable

  • By March 1, 2027: 80% of total program cost is non-refundable

  • After March 2, 2027: 100% of the program cost is non-refundable

This policy reflects financial commitments made to vendors and service providers in advance of the trip.

Early Departure & Supplemental Travel Insurance

Once participants arrive in Israel, no refunds or credits will be issued for unused mission days or missed experiences, including due to illness or an early return to the U.S., for any reason. This policy is governed by vendor agreements.

Federation strongly recommends that you purchase a supplemental, comprehensive travel insurance policy. Because insurance needs vary based on individual circumstances and preferences, participants are responsible for selecting a provider and coverage that best fit their personal needs.

Please note that, depending on the provider, you may not be able to secure trip cancellation coverage for travel to Israel. However, many policies may still offer valuable benefits such as coverage for medical emergencies, medical evacuation, flight delays or cancellations, lost or delayed luggage, and other travel-related disruptions.

Important timing note: many insurance providers require you to purchase coverage within 10–30 days of booking to qualify for certain benefits, especially for those with pre-existing conditions.

VAT Policy for Israeli Passport Holders

In accordance with Israeli law, Value Added Tax (VAT) applies to hotel accommodations in Israel unless a VAT exemption applies.

Participants traveling on an Israeli passport are not eligible for the VAT exemption. In such cases, the Participant will be charged VAT directly from the hotel, and neither the Delegation nor the Tour Operator will pay, reimburse, or offset any VAT charges.

What's included

Accomodations

Guided Tours

Most Meals

Unique Experiences

Security

Armed Security

Group Bus Transportation

Any additional transportation during free time or outside scheduled programming (taxis, rideshares, etc.) is not included.

What's not included

Airfare

Some Meals

Travel Insurance

Some Optional Activities

Day 1

Day 1 image

Tel Aviv | Opening Celebration

Arrive in Israel and dive into the vibrant spirit of Tel Aviv. Stroll through street art, markets, or Bauhaus boulevards before gathering seaside for a festive kickoff event overlooking the historic Jaffa skyline — complete with live music, local cuisine, and warm welcomes.

Day 2

Day 2 image

Innovation, Creativity & Culture

Choose your adventure: explore Tel Aviv’s cutting-edge tech and culinary scenes, meet Israeli changemakers, or uncover hidden gems through art, food, and storytelling. End the day with a joyful Guru Zuzu street celebration before dinner at leisure.

Day 3

Day 3 image

From Soldiers to Artists

Visit a meaningful JDC/JAFI project and celebrate alongside IDF soldiers at a festive base event featuring Gdolim B’Madim, an inspiring performance by youth with disabilities. Afternoon options include exploring Haifa’s Bahá’í Gardens, ancient Caesarea, or Mt. Carmel — followed by a relaxed evening back in Tel Aviv.

Day 4

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Tradition Meets Modernity

Journey to Jerusalem and choose from powerful experiences — the Museum of Tolerance, Mount Herzl, National Library, City of David, or the Supreme Court.
As the sun sets, join a moving Kabbalat Shabbat at the Old City and walk to the Kotel for a communal Shabbat filled with song, unity, and connection.

Day 5

Day 5 image

Rest, Reflect, and Reconnect

Enjoy optional tours, museum visits, or simply take in Jerusalem’s beauty. Choose from learning sessions with leading scholars at Shabbat University, followed by a soulful Havdalah under the stars and an evening of leisure.

Day 6

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Gaza Envelope | Desert Adventures | Jerusalem Deep Dive

Choose your path for an unforgettable day of discovery and resilience. Gaza Envelope: Hear powerful stories from survivors and community leaders as they rebuild and renew hope after October 7.


Desert Adventures: Explore the breathtaking Judean Desert through hiking, biking, or 4×4 expeditions, ending with a starlit celebration.


Jerusalem Deep Dive: Delve into themes of democracy, leadership, women of impact, and sacred spaces, culminating in an inspiring Sound & Light Show at Yad Vashem.

Day 7

Day 7 image

Sha’ar HaNegev | Lag Ba’Omer Celebration

Visit our partner region to witness strength and solidarity firsthand.
Participate in a Night of Hope featuring a Kululam singalong, festive dinner, and Lag Ba’Omer bonfire — celebrating unity, courage, and community connection.

Day 8

Day 8 image

Jerusalem | Closing Ceremony

Gather one last time for a special closing event, reflecting on shared experiences, friendships, and the journey’s impact.


Celebrate with a Farewell Dinner inspired by Lag Ba’Omer’s spirit of love and renewal before departing with hearts full and spirits lifted.

About your organizer

Jewish Federation of San Diego strengthens and connects our local and global Jewish community through philanthropy, advocacy, and engagement. We create meaningful opportunities to support Jewish life, respond to urgent needs, and build a vibrant, inclusive future — in San Diego, Israel, and around the world. Guided by our Jewish values, we invest in education, leadership development, and programs that inspire belonging, combat antisemitism, and ensure a strong, thriving Jewish people for generations to come.

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