I just returned from birthright and it was one of the best experiences I have ever had. For those who don't know what birthright is, it is a free trip to Israel for Jewish individuals once they turn 18 years old to learn more about their Jewish background and culture. Though I have personally been to Israel twice before, this trip opened my eyes to so many new things that I had not seen, felt, or resonated with before. I can not even begin to express how much this trip meant to me, but here are a few reasons why the experience was so great:
1. The Staff
Until you truly think about it, you don't realize as a participant how much the birthright staff does for you. Not only do they keep you entertained on the bus, in the hotels, and basically everywhere you go, but all of the behind the scenes work they do as well is incredible. The birthright staff work day and night to make your trip as amazing as it can be, all while becoming your close friends in the process.
2. The Food
I forgot how good hummus actually was until I tasted real Israeli hummus. I can't even tell you how many times I enjoyed Israeli salad, falafel, shawarma, and, of course, the iced coffee. Whether it was a big breakfast in the morning, dinner at the hotel, or lunch at the shuk, the food never failed to disappoint.
3. The Soldiers
Each birthright trip gets to share its experiences with a group of Israeli soldiers. This opportunity was even more moving than I had imagined, and it was so amazing to see that these soldiers, being the same age as us, led completely different lives. After hearing their personal stories and learning how much they do for the country, each one of them became our deeply personal heroes. Hanging out with the soldiers proved that they're just like us, and all of us became instant friends.
4. The Experiences
To list everything that you do on birthright would take forever, but believe me when I say you see as much as you can. Everywhere we went, we learned something new and exciting, and we got to experience so many new things we would have never expected to. From the things you hear about, like the Dead Sea and the Kotel, to the smaller things, like the gorgeous hikes and lookouts, everything in Israel is amazing and serves an important purpose. Israel is a beautiful country and it has so much to offer, and being a part of the country for ten days is something I'll never forget.
5. The Shopping
There are so many places to shop, but shopping at the shuk from vendors is probably the best Israeli shopping opportunity. Walking past hundreds of displays of jewelry, food, art, and handmade gifts is so festive, and it is definitely something to experience first hand.
6. Being There With Someone I Love
My boyfriend and I decided to go on the trip together, and I couldn't be happier with that decision. Being able to have these experiences with him by my side was amazing, and I know that it is something we will talk about and remember for a very long time.
7. The People
If you asked me my favorite part of birthright, I would say "the people." The individuals on my trip were some of the best, and we all became a family. I could not imagine the trip without them. It was amazing to see how close you can get to the other participants so quickly, and it's heartwarming to see that everyone still wants to remain close in the future.
Birthright was one of the most incredible things I have ever experienced. Not only do I feel closer to Israel and my Jewish culture, but I also made some lifelong friends. This trip meant a lot to me, and I know that it will continue to stay in my heart for a very long time.
