The Jewess Patriot: Is Europe A Good Passover Destination in 2026?

Should Jews Support European Economies That Allow Hate Crimes Against Jews?

It’s Yeshiva Week Break for some,  while others are just ending their vacations and most people are investing time in booking their Pesach/Passover vacations.

In 2026, should Jews traveling for destination Passover breaks participate in programs in which governments benefit from our tourism dollars?

This is a complex question with answers more compounded because many Pesach programs are owned by Jews.  Jews should not harm other Jews ability to earn income “parnassah.”

Europe

Published reports have said that there are negotiations among British Jewish leaders and members of the Trump administration are in talks to help British Jews relocate to the United States.

Trump’s lawyer Robert Garson revealed talks with the US State Department about offering asylum to British Jews seeking refuge, especially after the escalation of attacks on Jews and establishments within the recent past months.

Israel’s Aliyah and Integration Minister Ofir Sofer said: “The home of British Jewry, and of Jews around the world, is the State of Israel.” He added that his team is assisting in Aliyah to Israel.

In early January, Israeli tourists were harassed by pro Palestinian activists and were not allowed to board their flight to Tel Aviv for hours.

The antisemitism of France has been documented for years as Jews feel threatened to wear kipper and stars of David in public.

Ireland and Denmark have made significant steps to intensify its criticism of Israel, called for its removal from international platforms, and major pension funds have divested from Israeli assets.

Spain has been seen as one of the most antisemitic and anti Zionist countries, especially since October 7, 2023.  In March 2025, a kosher restaurant in Madrid was targeted in an attempted arson, with an individual pouring a gasoline-like substance at the entrance.

The list of countries goes on and on… Greece, Germany, Belgium… it’s hard to find a country without antisemitic attacks.

Other Destinations

Cartagena, Australia, Africa and other desired locations are not too much better.

Why Are Israelis and Americans Supporting These Locations?

We have to ask the following questions:

• Are these locations truly safe, even with private security?
• How much money do local businesses benefit from our tourism dollars and then turn around and use the profits against Israel and Jews?
• Are we helping or hurting the Jewish economy in these locations where Jews live year round and where Chabad houses bring religious and traditional Jewish rituals to those who need their leadership?

Alternative Solutions

What are our choices?  Is it so bad to stay home and build local community activities for all to enjoy?

Where are the safe locations to travel?

How and when did this destination Passover start?  My earliest memories are of my grandparent’s Seders.  In those days, they made everything from scratch, used fine china which had to be hand washed and linens pressed, and extended families stayed overnight on couches.  They were amazing times and great memories without 500 candy choices and ten activities a day.

I don’t have the answers, but I know the same people who are standing at protests, posting on social media and attending community Jewish events fighting antisemitism and standing with Israel are booking these vacations.

Money is always the power that demands change.  Imagine if the thousands upon thousands of dollars for airlines, hotels, local souvenir shops, tour guides and buses and yes, local food distributors who profit from selling fruits and vegetables suddenly stopped.

Next Year In Jerusalem is the perfect goal for everyone next year!