Is the North Pole kosher? You betcha! How about Japan? Lapland? Ethiopia? Emphatically, “Yes” to all of the above!
When most people think of AACI (Association of Americans and Canadians in Israel, a 70-year- old NGO), they might picture incredible kosher trips around the globe. While travel is a big part of what AACI does, it’s just the tip of the iceberg. AACI’s broader mission is to serve the English-speaking community in Israel by supporting individuals and families, fostering connections between Israel and the Diaspora and championing Zionist values. Every shekel earned through AACI’s travel programs is reinvested into vital services that strengthen the fabric of the community and build connections.
While AACI’s social initiatives take center stage, its travel programs are equally remarkable. Every trip AACI organizes reflects the organization’s values of community, Zionism and cultural enrichment. With a wide array of strictly kosher and shomer Shabbat tours tailored for an audience predominantly aged 50 and above, AACI creates unforgettable experiences. Many of the specialty trips include younger folks as well.
For example, some of their global destinations with a uniquely Jewish flair include:
Europe and Beyond: AACI recently marked the 80th anniversary of D-Day with a memorable kosher trip, renting a 17th century chateau, kashering it and importing glatt kosher food. This innovative approach earned rave reviews and they will be repeating this trip again.
Japan: The demand for trips to Japan has been so high that multiple tours are scheduled annually.
Lapland: An Arctic adventure featuring ice sleds, swimming in frozen waters and stunning natural beauty — a once in a lifetime escapade.
Ethiopia and Georgia: The cultural richness of these destinations has made them perennial favorites. Trips to Georgia sell out quickly.
North Pole: A bucket list destination that AACI is proud to offer.
Other Popular Trips: From Dubai and Thessaloniki to riverboat cruises along the Danube and Prague, the variety is endless.
Every detail is meticulously planned to ensure comfort in a warm community atmosphere.
A Mission Beyond Travel
All income from their trips is reinvested in the organization itself. At its core, AACI exists to support the Anglo-Israeli community in profound ways. The organization provides:
Aliyah Counseling: Assisting new immigrants in navigating the challenges of life in Israel.
Student Connect: This innovative program connects Jewish university students from around the world. With over 600 participants already, an additional 250 will join the initiative in January. For more information, visit www.aaciconnect.org.
Honoring Fallen North Americans: AACI has memorialized 450 fallen North Americans (and their affiliated families) who served Israel, ensuring their sacrifices are never forgotten.
The organization’s efforts go beyond these core programs. During times of crisis, AACI steps up in extraordinary ways. Since Oct. 7, AACI sprang into action to support displaced families staying in Dead Sea hotels. With 18,000 people temporarily housed in the area, AACI raised 250,000 NIS ($264,700) to create a mini-community center offering workshops and activities. They even provided additional hotel furniture and barbecue grills to help families feel more at home. AACI’s dedication exemplifies its commitment to the well-being of its community, especially during difficult times.
The Pesach Experience
The jewel in AACI’s travel crown is undoubtedly its Pesach program. Designed to be affordable and meaningful, it combines the best of Israeli and Anglo traditions, creating a Pesach experience like no other.
Hosted at the Vert Jerusalem and Vert Netanya hotels, the program costs under $5,000 per couple for eight nights. This includes full-board meals for Shabbat and chag, half-board during the week, and two daily coffee and cake breaks. Participants can enjoy glatt kosher meat (Kehillot or Rubin hechshers) all week long and can choose between handmade or machine shmura matzah for the seder. The program is kitniyot-free and has gebrochts and non-gebrochts as well.
Other highlights include:
Scholars in Residence: Offering engaging shiurim and lectures by the main scholar in residence and additional shiurim with guests scholars all week long.
Day Trips and Excursions: A special trip to the Gaza border area, including a visit to the Nova Festival site, is among the planned activities.
Evening Entertainment: Perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration or swimming.
Kids’ Club and Babysitting: English-speaking staff ensure children are cared for, while families can also arrange private babysitting.
In Jerusalem, separate swimming facilities cater to all the participants.
In Netanya, an infinity pool provides family-friendly swimming all day.
This program attracts large Anglo-Israeli families, often joined by their relatives from overseas, creating a vibrant and dynamic community environment.
AACI’s dedication to fostering community extends beyond travel. One of the standout moments of the Pesach program is a professionally organized group singing event (Koolulam), which brings together displaced families, guests and soldiers for an uplifting musical experience. These moments encapsulate what AACI is all about: building connections, strengthening bonds and creating memories that last a lifetime.
Whether through their unforgettable travel programs or their impactful community initiatives, AACI is much more than just excellent kosher travel. It’s a beacon of hope, connection and purpose for English speakers in Israel and beyond.
For more information on upcoming trips and programs, visit www.aacitravel.com or contact them at [email protected].
Arnie Draiman is a philanthropic consultant helping people and foundations give their tzedaka money away wisely, efficiently and effectively for over 25 years. In addition, he consults to hi-tech startups, is an expert in social media marketing and promotion, and loves kosher traveling. He can be reached at [email protected].
