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Questions?
We’ve got answers.

Spark is no ordinary experience, so we’re sure you have lots of questions. From hotels to tours, meals and flight options, and everything in between, we’ve got all the information you need to start your Spark experience.

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What is Spark?

Spark is a journey of leadership, learning, travel, connection, and community building in celebration of Israel’s 75th Independence Day. Through diverse experiences, you’ll feel a deep connection to community and to one another, sparking a passion for involvement, leadership, and learning within Jewish Boston and beyond.

What does the cost include?

Each experience includes deluxe accommodations in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and Haifa/Northern Israel, a daily buffet breakfast, most meals, government-licensed English-speaking tour guides, deluxe air-conditioned buses with Wi-Fi, all programs and activities and entrance fees, on-site field coordinator and hospitality desk, and tips and gratuities.

What programs will be offered locally?

In addition to meet-ups with your Spark small group, we are organizing exciting options to supplement your experience. These may include book clubs, speakers, Hebrew classes, and more. Check back for a listing of Boston-area events and opportunities.

Who will I be traveling with?

For the family experience, every family will be assigned a group for pre- and post-trip programming. These groups will be made based on ages of children, interests, and geographic locations. Participants will be able to request others to join their group. While in Israel, some time will be spent with your group, and some time will be spent mixing with other families in the experience. This will enable everyone to meet and connect with as many people as possible and create lasting bonds and family friendships.

When does Spark begin?

Family Experience programming will begin in fall 2023.

How do I register?

Join Family Trip.

How do I book airfare for the Family Experience?

Airfare will be arranged and booked on your own. We have created a flight document with helpful information.

Are subsidies available for the Family Experience?

Unfortunately, Spark subsidies are no longer available — all funding has been distributed.

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What is the cancellation policy?
Dec/Family
  • Payment plans are available and full payment is due September 6
  • May 1, 2023 – September 6, 2023 - you may receive a full refund minus any fees and your $250 deposit
  • September 6, 2023 – October 31, 2023 - you may receive a 50% refund
  • November 1 – December 31, 2023 (trip date) - no refund available

Will you be able to accommodate special dietary needs?

Yes. You’ll be able to indicate your dietary requests in the full registration form. Special dietary needs such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other allergies will be accommodated. All meals included in the trips will be kosher, in compliance with local municipal rabbinates.

What is not included in the cost of the trip?

Air travel to and from Israel, some meals, souvenirs, room service, gifts, or any other personal items.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance?

Travel insurance is strongly recommended. To purchase travel insurance, please contact your personal travel agent.

Will I have Wi-Fi access?

Yes, the tour bus and hotels will be equipped with Wi-Fi.

Is the cost of a trip tax-deductible?

No. Per IRS regulations, the cost of goods and services cannot be claimed as charitable contribution. Therefore, the cost of Spark is not tax-deductible.

What is your COVID policy?

We are closely monitoring the continuously changing situation with COVID-19. We will adjust our plans based on public health and government guidance from the U.S. and Israel at the time of travel. To ensure the comfort of all travelers and to comply with Israeli government guidelines, participants on this trip must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

How do I arrange pre- or post- trip plans?

For any transfers, hotels, or tours needed before or after Spark officially begins and ends, please contact Rachel Grandberg Weinstein at rachelg@cjp.org for more information.

Does the cost of the trip include a contribution to CJP? Will there be solicitation on the trip?
There is no donation or solicitation — this is an experience sponsored by CJP and open to all.  
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Still need more information?

If you have more questions you don’t see listed here, feel free to email spark@cjp.org.

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