Israel Journey 5A has been having an incredible time touring the amazing land of Israel. On day 14, we did a lot of learning and sightseeing. Our first stop of the day was at Netiv HaAsara where we did a tour of the area, saw the Gaza border and learned about the community that lives there. We had meaningful discussions about how the people who live so close to the border maintain a positive outlook. We then had the opportunity to write a note or a prayer on a tile and put it on the wall facing Gaza. Participants Eli S., Harry B., and Aaron S. explained how, “being so close to the Gaza border was both really cool and really scary.”

We then headed back to the bus for a two hour journey into the Negev desert. On our way we stopped at the Ramon Crater. We learned that it is the largest erosion crater in the world! During our time at the crater, we did a short walk alongside the edge of it. It was truly a beautiful view. The teens took lots of pictures!

Finally, after a long day of driving and learning, we arrived at our accommodations, Kibbutz Ketura, located in the Arava Valley. For dinner we had a BBQ followed by a really great pool party. All the teens had a great time bonding.

We can’t wait to see what tomorrow has in store. More updates soon!