Looking to nurture your community’s connection to Israel with a customized travel experience and an expert to guide your journey? J2 's expert guides are leaders in their fields, but the ways they weave their own stories and experiences into their tours are what will make Israel come alive for you and your community. You’ll return home with newfound knowledge and feeling like you’ve been let in on a fantastic secret.
The URJ is offering our member congregations the ability to customize their trips with J2, a leading luxury travel brand that crafts Jewish educational and experiential journeys to Israel and around the world. On a J² journey, you’ll explore new places with expert educators by your side every step of the way.
Get to know a few of these experts below:
Michal (she/her)
Michal grew up in a small town north of Tel Aviv and now lives in Jerusalem. She has been a guide since she was 16 years old. After her IDF service, she guided Jeep expeditions in the mountains of Turkey. Michal has two degrees in Middle Eastern history and geography and speaks six languages.
Eran (he/him)
Eran is a true adventurer and history buff. Born in central Israel, he served in combat intelligence before pursuing degrees and leading Jewish journeys. His love of the desert, passion for culinary experiences, and knowledge of music make him a unique guide.
Muki (he/him)
Originally from South Africa, Muki is a man of many experiences and degrees. From being a combat medic in the IDF to a devoted Jewish educator, he values guiding above all else. When he's not enjoying nature or studying, he cherishes time with his family.
Zvi (he/him)
Born and raised in New York City, Zvi's passion for history led him to Israel in 1980. His unique blend of education and entertainment makes history come alive on his tours. When he's not guiding, he's biking for a good cause.
Mike (he/him)
Mike was born in Canada and found his true calling in Israel. With a bachelor's degree in history and two master's degrees from Tel Aviv and Cambridge, he's a scholar-in-residence and leads enlightening journeys. Mike is married with three kids (all born in Israel). He loves yoga, working out, reading, and music.
Lior (she/her)
Lior, a true lover of adventure and exploration, was born and raised in central Israel. She honed her skills as a guide during her youth and military service. Lior has a degree in Israel studies and now resides in Moshav Nir Hen. She enjoys family time, music, camping, and volunteering when not guiding tours.
Hillary (she/her)
Hillary is a passionate tour guide and educator with a unique background. Originally from Philadelphia, she spent her 20s in New York City and discovered her love of informal Jewish education. With degrees in anthropology and graphic design, she has a special eye for art, making her tours truly captivating.
Uri (he/him)
Uri‘s journey has taken him from Jerusalem to the far corners of the world. His master's degree in Jewish studies allows him to bring the rich history of Israel to life while fostering connections and inspiring others to strengthen their Jewish identity.
Yishay (he/him)
Yishay was born on a kibbutz, but is a Jerusalemite at heart. This history and hiking enthusiast was first exposed to guiding tours at a young age and now incorporates his expertise in history, politics, and theology. When not sharing his knowledge, he cherishes time with his family.
Shari (she/her)
After growing up in Cleveland, Ohio, Shari studied in Jerusalem and eventually made . Shari's passion for Israel's vibrant culture and landscape has never wavered. Her degree in Jewish history and volunteer experience with the IDF perfectly align with her love for storytelling and sharing Israel's complexities.
Do you want to help your congregation connect with Israel? Contact J2 and get started planning your community’s once-in-a-lifetime tour of Israel!