To those who are unfamiliar, a birthright trip to Israel is courtesy of a non-profit organization who sponsor a 10-day, jam-packed opportunity for young adults of Jewish heritage. This trip is a huge privilege that I am grateful to have experienced first hand this winter.

To some, Birthright simply means a free trip. Which it is.

But from my experience, it is so much more eye-opening.

Birthright is spending over a week learning about your heritage, your people, your ancestry.

Birthright is cultivating friendships with 40 other Jews from all over the country, whom you may have overwise never crossed paths with.

Birthright is educating about the Holocaust so that the same mistakes never repeat themselves in history.

Birthright is waking up at 5:30 in the morning to ride camels as the sun rises, or eating in a Bedouin tent.

Birthright is living out of your suitcase, in preparation to move to the next hotel which means new and exciting things to see or do.

Birthright is traveling and spending time on the bus, listening to music, and taking it all in that you're in Israel.

Birthright is sightseeing the land and connecting to the events that happened at each point.

Birthright is discovering or re-discovering your Jewish identity.

Birthright is being given the chance to pray at the western wall.

Birthright is getting to know Israeli soldiers, and discovering that they are not only the same age but have a lot more in common with yourself than you may have thought.

Birthright is Jeeping down the Golan Heights, and seeing the geographical land boarders that have been set over time.

Birthright is spending nights out to drink in a new city.

Birthright is taking pictures and making memories that you will never forget.

Birthright is visiting Masada, and learning that there is more to this landmark then just the hike up or down.

Birthright is eating falafel or shawarma every single day, and not getting sick of it. Birthright is floating at the lowest point on earth, the Dead Sea.

Birthright is looking outside your window, and seeing a magnificent view at every crossroad.

Birthright is discovering the beauty of Israel, and motivation for us to keep tradition alive.

So go, take the leap, step out of your comfort zone and see for yourself what the fuss is all about. You definitely will not regret it!