Israel Week 3
CAMPER LETTER
Dear CYJ,
As we approach our last week in Israel, we reflect on all of the amazing experiences from this past week. After going our separate ways for family weekend, we reunited as a chevra and made our way to Tel Aviv! While in Tel Aviv we experienced beautiful kibbutzim, busy shuks, and intense heat. Luckily our free time at the Tel Aviv port and Netanya beach cooled us off. Although the jelly fish may have interrupted our swimming, we were still able to enjoy a relaxing day with all 3 buses.
Along with our visits to the beach, we also did some meaningful work volunteering at a kibbutz. While some groups painted machinery, others got the opportunity to milk cows and work in the vineyards. Of course, while in Tel Aviv, we couldn’t pass up the opportunity to do the graffiti tour. We saw unique pieces and learned so much about the culture of street art. Following this, we set off for our beloved pizur lunch at Shuk Hacarmel. There were so many delicious food options to try. From smoothie bowls to shawarma it’s safe to say that everyone found something to enjoy. As well, there were tons of booths filled with jewelry, original art, and souvenirs. It was a great addition to our day.
Along with our visits to the beach, we were also fortunate enough to go to a water park! We spent the morning going down crazy slides, swimming, and enjoying the amazing snacks, especially the massive cotton candy. To finish off our day, we returned to the kibbutz and participated in engaging activities, such as social experiments and group singing. There are so many talented people at Biluim Israel!
To end of this week, we had a meaningful experience at the border of Gaza. To some this may seem scary, but we were lucky enough to feel safe and secure while becoming part of an art project that helps support peace. Finally, we learned about agriculture in the desert. We even got to pick and eat our own vegetables! While at the salad trail, we were amazed to see all of their creative projects. Specifically how they reconstruct Gaza and Iron Dome missiles into beautiful metal jewelry, menorahs, and roses. It was so inspiring to see how something so destructive can be turned into something so beautiful.
As our summer comes to an end, it is important to make the most of each moment and cherish the time we have left together. Even if you are having a bad day, remember that all difficult things are temporary and can be turned into something positive. We hope you enjoy your last few weeks of summer and embrace every opportunity you get at camp.
Shabbat shalom CYJ!!
From,
Carly Levett (Kadimah) and Lily Grill (Solelim)
DIRECTOR LETTER
Dear Biluim Israel Families,
As I sit on Kibbutz Gvulot, basking in the heat of the Israeli south, I am overwhelmed by the fact that this is the second to last Shabbat of Biluim Israel 2022.
It is hard to believe that just 21 days ago I was standing in the blazing sun, just after a long night of traveling from Krakow, in the courtyard of Ben Gurion Airport meeting our chevre for the first time. Since then I have learned a lot. I have learned about the wondrous country I call my second home, Israel. I have learned much about myself, as a leader, a team member, and as an individual. But mostly, I have learned how to go with the flow, or Lizrom as the Israeli’s say.
As many of you may have heard, be it from the participants, staff, or others who have travelled to Israel since the pandemic, a lot has changed in the way of tourism. I want to share with you a few of the challenges we have experienced as Biluim Israel. After two and a half years of closed borders, Israeli companies (hotels, food service, laundry, etc.) did not expect waves of tens of thousands of tourists and youth groups and taglit to arrive in Israel this summer. Thus they overbooked their hotels expecting many to cancel. Which they did not. As well, many of our suppliers are fully staffed, making it difficult to use their services in a timely manner. While we have managed to minimize the effects this has had on the participants, there are still a few hiccups now and then that are inevitable. I want to assure all of you that we are learning from these challenges, and every time, every hotel, getting smarter and more prepared.
Our group has shown immense resilience, despite some logistical challenges, and the challenge of the heatwave we are currently experiencing. I want to commend the participants of Biluim Israel on their ability to adapt to small changes, and do so with a smile and a high-five!
This shabbat we are resting up, enjoying the pool facilities in our accommodations to beat the heat and preparing ourselves for the incredible week of once in a lifetime experiences that lie ahead.
Shabbat Shalom & Chazak Ve’Ematz,
Ellie Gamliel
