ברוכים הבאים

(That's Hebrew for "Welcome", pronounced as Broo-kheem Ha-ba-eem)

اهلاً وسهلاً
(And that's Arabic for "Welcome", pronounced as Ah-lan Wa Sah-lan)

וָאֶשָּׂא אֶתְכֶם עַל־כַּנְפֵי נְשָׁרִים וָאָבִא אֶתְכֶם אֵלָי

"And I shall carry you on the wings of eagles and bring you to me" (Exodus 19:4)

The Hebrew word "Hineni" (הנני) is mentioned 177 times in the Bible. In simple terms, it means "I am here". In context, when there is a call to action or a cry for help, the word “Hineni” is a response, meaning “I am ready” or “I am here to help”. Famed singer Leonard Cohen includes “Hineni” in the lyrics to his song “You want it Darker”. Hineni - I am here to help.

This trip is designed to offer those interested the opportunity to travel to Israel and be with her people in a setting of a small group of friends. The itinerary includes a bit of each ingredient: touring, volunteering, learning and free time. The idea is to allow participants to help Israel, connect with its people and return home with a feeling of accomplishment and better understanding. Of course, there is no reason we shouldn't also have a good time and enjoy some of the delicious food (especially in Jerusalem!)

Some tour features are not yet finalized. You will be notified of any modifications (such as adding a site or an activity) by email.

As you consider joining this group, please remember that Israel is currently (January 2024) in a state of war in Gaza and tensions are high on the border with Lebanon. Of course, the staff on the tour, including myself, will do everything to ensure the safety and well-being of the participants, including carefully monitoring the situation in Israel before and during the trip. But the situation is something you should be aware of prior to registration. You may wish to consider signing up for the State Department STEP program.

Here is some basic information for your consideration:

1. If we do not reach the minimum 15 participants by February 28, 2024, the trip will be cancelled, and deposits returned in full.
2. If the tour is cancelled after March 31, 2024 (final payments), Scopia LLC will do its best to work with suppliers to recuperate funds paid to them. Whatever is received from the suppliers will be reimbursed to the group, less $300 per person fee to cover time and expenses invested in preparing the trip.
3. You will be required to stay with the group for all touring/volunteering days.
4. Minimum age to register for the group is 21.

It's important to read and understand all the information prior to registration. Please be sure to click on the buttons below for the full brochure, registration, to purchase travel insurance and for payment information.

Your passport must be valid at least for at least 6 months beyond the date of return. Processing times for passports can be 3 months or more. You should apply now for a passport if yours expires before November 12, 2024.

Before registering for the tour, please note Scopia LLC is not registered as a "Seller of Travel" in the states of CA, HI and WA, and therefore unable to welcome aboard participants who are residents of these states, unless full payment for the tour is received from someone outside of these states.

Registration is open: A deposit of $250 reserves your spot on this tour. Registrations after February 28, 2024 are subject to availability and a "late fee" of $100 per person.

After acquainting yourself with all the tour details, please click on the button below to register. Be sure to have ready:

• Your passport(s)
• United frequent flyer number (optional)
• TSA pre or Global Entry (optional)

I thank you for your support of Israel and your interest in this tour and look forward to welcoming you to Israel.