Three years ago, when my sister Amy came back from her Israel tour, I went to pick her up from the airport and saw how she had grown and changed for the better. Three years later when it was my turn, the idea of going away with fifty-seven other people to a foreign country for three and a half weeks didn't really appeal to me; however, that would all change.
There were a couple of things that I wanted to get out of tour. Ever since completing the Jewish studies GCSE course at SPS, where I was able to go deeper into the meaning of Judaism, I have been more interested in learning about other religions. Therefore, by going on tour I wanted to find my own Jewish identity, to gain a connection with Israel; as well as finding lifelong friends and to have the most amazing experience.
Throughout the trip I saw some incredible sites, including the Western Wall, Masada, Mount Herzl and the Gaza Wall where I glued a prayer. One thing that surprised me the most was everywhere I looked there was an Israeli flag; hanging up on buildings, cranes and on the side of roads. It shocked me because it shows you how proud Israel is, which was so refreshing to see. Despite everything that they go through on a regular basis with bomb shelters around every corner and being attacked both physically and politically, Israel stands tall and proud; and that made me feel proud not only to be in Israel but also to be Jewish. Even when faced with a crisis Israel and its citizens find a way to carry on their lives as normal. All our worries are nothing compared to how brave they are.
On a less serious note, all my worries about making friends were swiftly forgotten. I have made some lovely life-long friends and everybody was so kind, it was like meeting up with friends that you have known for years. Being stuck with more than 60 people every day didn't take that long to get use to as you always had someone around to keep you company; and there was never a shortage of things to do or laughs waiting to happen.
I am so grateful to everyone that made my Israel tour the most amazing experience I have ever had. I had the most incredible time that I will never forget. Since being back from tour I am now considering taking a gap year in Israel to further develop my Jewish understanding.
Charlotte Golding
My trip to Israel was an amazing experience that I will never forget. Everything about BBYO Israel tour was phenomenal, from visiting sites such as the Old City of Jerusalem and the Western Wall, to swimming in the Kinneret and hiking up Masada. When I visited the Old City, I felt such a strong connection to Judaism it made me really think about what it is to be Jewish and what I can do in my life to continue this connection.
Getting to the top of Masada was so rewarding, when we reached the summit we sat together and watched the sunrise, which was beautiful.
Not only were the educational aspects of the tour memorable, I know that the friends I have made will be lifelong friends. Having fifty-seven other teenagers to share the tour with was one of my favourite parts. My summer in Israel has changed me as a person and was an exceptional experience which I will remember for the rest of my life.
Hannah Golding
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