On Dec 14th I had the chance to meet with my fellow travelers. There are 15 in the group. Half have participated in previous years. One couple has gone 4 times and another 6. They are most enthusiastic about the experience ! They spoke about their tutoring role with the kids and their friendships with their host families (for Shabbat dinners and other occassions). We saw thank you letters written by the children and also skyped with the host family who organizes some of the activities. Our leaders Carol and Steve have run the program for 9 years and have boundless enthusiasm and energy, We discussed some of the possible desitnations for our afternoon activities. It is a challenge to find things that will appeal to the returning travelers along with the new participants. I have confidence they will figure this out.
Everyone seems quite friendly and welcoming. None have travel schedules that coincide with mine, so traveling to and from Haifa I am on my own. Leaving Monday Eve Jan 19 and returning to USA Wed eve Feb 18. Will be on Turkish Air, connecting in Istanbul. Landing in Tel Aviv, I will find my way to Haifa with a sherut (shared taxi). Once I get to Haifa and connect with the group I will be very relieved!!! I don't think I can enter links or photos on this blog, but for those interested I will be at the Dan Panorama Hotel on Mt Carmel in Haifa. Apparently a great view, but a lot of hills to climb when walking in the neighborhood...
I promished myself to spend some time today organizing my list and packing, so that is the next activity. Trying to remind myself to pack light. So no more procrastinating... off to pack.
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