A Guide to Getting It All, Part II: To Fly Solo, or Not?
In my last article, we discussed how to choose the right trip for you. Now that you have given some thought about what type of trip you are looking for, here’s something else to chew on. Have you asked yourself…
Who do you want to travel with?
This is another big question. Birthright trip organizers allow you to request who you want to travel with so you feel your best on your trip.
Some people want to travel with a sibling or boyfriend or roommate or friend, which are all great options; a Birthright trip is a great way to have quality time together. Traveling with a significant other or a friend is also a great way to learn something new about this person and yourself, and bring you even closer. An additional bonus of traveling with someone you know is that you might have more confidence to put yourself out there with other people on your trip.
However, I chose to travel alone, and had an amazing time meeting all sorts of people. This is a good option if you want to totally break out of your comfort zone and really have a chance to be whoever you want to be.
No matter what, Birthright wants you to have a good time and feel comfortable. One thing my trip provider, Mayanot, did that especially helped was give me a chance to meet up with or talk to other people before the trip.
Because of Mayanot’s friendly, encouraging attitude, I felt like I was part of a family before I even landed in Israel. I was comfortable from the start. Even though the trip is made up of participants and staff, all from a wide range of backgrounds, we really became a mishpuche (family in Hebrew.)
Who ARE the other participants? Who am I going to meet?
They are unique, curious and eager. They come from around the world. They go to different colleges and work in a wide range of professions.
They want to try authentic Israeli falafel with chips (french fries in Hebrew). They want to learn about Israeli culture. They want to float in the Dead Sea and hike Masada.
And most importantly, they are all looking forward to meeting you and making this the best trip of your life.