Directory listings Archive | World Jewish Travel

Exploring Czech Jewish History with Bat-El Tours

Bat-El Tours is a unique travel agency born from a deep commitment to Jewish history, memory, and education. Founded by Pavel Batel, a respected Czech author and historian known for his groundbreaking work on the Terezín Ghetto, Bat-El Tours began with a single mission: to offer private tours that are not only informative, but also deeply meaningful.

What started as private Terezín tours based on Pavel Batel’s interviews with Holocaust survivors soon grew into something much larger. As international demand for historically accurate and emotionally sensitive tours increased, Bat-El Tours expanded its scope—welcoming scholars, educators, and thoughtful travelers from around the world.

Today, Bat-El Tours is led by a team of historians and professionals engaged in real academic research. Among them is Yvonne Penkavova, a historian and researcher specializing in Czech Jewish heritage. Yvonne is also pursuing her degree at Charles University and is actively involved in outreach, using platforms like social media to make Jewish history accessible to new audiences.

The tours offered by Bat-El Tours go far beyond typical sightseeing. Private tours of Terezín remain the company’s cornerstone, drawing on Pavel Batel’s unparalleled oral history archive. Visitors receive a deeply personal and research-based insight into life in the ghetto—an experience that many describe as unforgettable.

But Bat-El Tours also sheds light on other key parts of Czech Jewish history. In Prague, visitors can explore the Jewish Quarter with guides who are not only experts in history but are also involved in academic projects and publications. The team also offers excursions to lesser-known sites with rich Jewish heritage, including Kolín, Třebíč, and Český Krumlov.

What makes Bat-El Tours truly special is its dedication to truth, education, and preservation. Whether you’re walking the quiet streets of Terezín, standing in front of a preserved synagogue, or uncovering hidden layers of Jewish Prague, you’re not just seeing the sites—you’re learning from people who live and breathe this history.

For those seeking an educational, emotionally resonant, and intellectually grounded experience, Bat-El Tours is not just a travel company. It’s a bridge between past and present—built by Pavel Batel and powered by a team of dedicated researchers committed to sharing the full story of Czech Jewish history.

Yamim Ba’im

Discover the Vibrance of Yamim Ba’im, New York

Immerse yourself in the heart of Jewish cultural heritage with Yamim Ba’im in New York, a celebration that brings together music, tradition, and community. This extraordinary event highlights the rich tapestry of Jewish music, from soulful melodies to lively rhythms, creating an unforgettable experience for attendees. Rooted in a deep appreciation for cultural preservation, Yamim Ba’im tells the story of a community’s enduring connection to its heritage through the universal language of music.

Held in the vibrant town of Bethel, New York, Yamim Ba’im has become a cornerstone of cultural events, drawing visitors from near and far. Established to honor and celebrate the diverse traditions of Jewish music, this festival has grown into a cherished gathering that bridges generations and backgrounds. While the event’s origins are steeped in history, its modern-day celebrations are a testament to the evolving yet enduring spirit of Jewish culture.

At Yamim Ba’im, the festivities are as diverse as the community it represents. Attendees can expect live performances by renowned artists, traditional dances, and an array of culinary delights that pay homage to Jewish cuisine. Whether it’s the sound of klezmer music filling the air or the aroma of freshly baked challah, every element of the event is designed to immerse visitors in a sensory journey through Jewish heritage. While there’s no strict dress code, many participants embrace traditional attire, adding a touch of authenticity to the celebration.

This event is a gathering of people from all walks of life—community members, music enthusiasts, and cultural explorers alike. Together, they celebrate the resilience, creativity, and unity of Jewish culture. Yamim Ba’im is more than just an event; it’s a vibrant expression of identity and a reminder of the power of tradition to bring people together.

Whether you’re searching for upcoming cultural events near me, exploring the Yamim Ba’im festival schedule, or simply looking to connect with a rich cultural legacy, this event promises an experience like no other. Don’t miss the chance to be part of the Yamim Ba’im event 2025—a celebration of music, heritage, and community.

Image attribution:

Young women at a music festival – Photo by Aranxa Esteve on Unsplash <https://unsplash.com/photos/group-of-people-on-grass-field-under-sunny-day-pOXHU0UEDcg>

A crowd of people watching a concert on stage – Photo by Vadim Danilov on Unsplash <https://unsplash.com/photos/a-crowd-of-people-watching-a-concert-on-stage-2ERHhBsI3UE>

A group of people lying on top of a lush green field – Photo by Shihab Chowdhury on Unsplash <https://unsplash.com/photos/a-group-of-people-laying-on-top-of-a-lush-green-field-tGa9NmEZW6A>

People watching a concert during night time – Photo by Samuel Regan-Asante on Unsplash <https://unsplash.com/photos/people-watching-concert-during-night-time-R5oDQk81nFE>

Paolo Scheffer

Experience the major sights of Lisbon from a Jewish perspective

Join the only official guide in Portugal who is Jewish on a tour of the major sights of historic Lisbon. Along the way, you will discover artifacts, inscriptions, and monuments that no other Jewish tour of Lisbon can access.

Guest testimonial

“An Eye-Opening, Enlightening and Moving Touring Experience”

We spent 2 of the most memorable days touring Lisbon with Paolo Scheffer of Lisbon Explorer Private Tours. The depth of knowledge this guide was able to share with us in a lucid and exciting manner is unmatched by tour guides we have been with previously. We came away from our two days with a new understanding of the history and geography of Lisbon and its environs. We laughed or we cried as Paolo walked us through thousands of years of peaks and troughs in the very complicated relationship of the rulers with the subjects. Paolo is extremely knowledgeable as well on the intricacies of the long history of Portugal’s inquisition against anyone not willing to accept Christianity. A day or two with Paolo will transform you into a more tolerant and compassionate human being. Don’t miss this opportunity!

– Eilat, Israel, see this and other guest reviews on TripAdvisor

Terezin semi-private tour

Join an exclusive semi-private tour (maximum 8 participants) for an educational and meaningful visit to the Terezín Ghetto, led by one of Pavel Batel’s team members. This tour offers an in-depth exploration of Terezín’s complex history — from its use as a propaganda tool to the lived experiences of those imprisoned there.

Rather than following a fixed script, each tour is shaped by the guide’s expertise and the group’s interests. We focus on historical context, personal stories, and often overlooked aspects of the site’s legacy.

Borscht Belt Fest

Discover the Borscht Belt Fest in Ellenville

Celebrate the magic, humor, and history of Jewish-American culture at the Borscht Belt Fest in Ellenville. Rooted in the vibrant legacy of the Catskills region, this festival honors a golden era known for its iconic resorts, legendary entertainers, and beloved traditions. Originally inspired by the lively charm of the mid-20th-century Borscht Belt, this event carries forward a rich cultural heritage that continues to captivate audiences of all ages. Ellenville, nestled in the heart of the Catskills, sets the stage each year for this spirited celebration.

The Borscht Belt Fest is a feast for the senses. Indulge in classic Jewish comfort foods that bring an authentic taste of Borscht Belt heritage events to life—think smoky homemade delicacies, flaky baked goods, and of course, hearty bowls of borscht. These traditional flavors set the tone for an unforgettable experience that is as much about savoring history as it is about enjoying the moment.

The festival’s lineup promises endless excitement and laughter, featuring comedians, musicians, and storytellers who channel the humor and creativity that defined the Borscht Belt era. Engaging workshops, art exhibits, and nostalgic activities offer visitors a chance to get involved, from rugelach bake-offs to energetic klezmer music performances. These customs honor Jewish culture, blending cherished traditions with joyous celebration to keep the spirit alive for all who attend.

Open to everyone—families, locals, and travelers alike—the festival welcomes individuals who share a love for the Borscht Belt history and its enduring impact. Participants celebrate a time that brought communities together through art, laughter, and resilience, making this Catskills cultural festival a vibrant tribute to those unforgettable summers.

Whether you’re revisiting cherished memories or discovering this heritage for the first time, the Borscht Belt Fest in Ellenville invites you to connect with the past, revel in the present, and create new traditions for the future.

Image attribution:

At the Renegade Chicago Craft fair – Photo by Josh Howard on Unsplash <https://unsplash.com/photos/crowd-on-street-97bHXUlBkGw>

A group of people sitting at picnic tables under umbrellas – Photo by Anastasiia Liubskaia on Unsplash <https://unsplash.com/photos/a-group-of-people-sitting-at-picnic-tables-under-umbrellas-nb4JhrWhE9U>

A group of people walking down a street next to a market – Photo by Marco de Winter on Unsplash <https://unsplash.com/photos/a-group-of-people-walking-down-a-street-next-to-a-market-xwBCCIC8lh4>

People browse art at an outdoor market – Photo by Pascal Bernardon on Unsplash <https://unsplash.com/photos/people-browse-art-at-an-outdoor-market-Y3hUc15IPOs>

Jewish Heritage of Portugal 2-Day Private Driving & Walking Tour

Discover Portugal’s most important Jewish sights in 2 days

The entire country of Portugal still retains remnants of what was once the largest Jewish population in the world after 1492. Today, the customs and influences of the Jewish people are still deeply infused in Portuguese culture. Traveling between Lisbon and Porto, we visit the most well-preserved and significant Jewish heritage sites. Along the way, there are picturesque stone villages, cultural diversions, and time to enjoy local foodstuffs while meeting locals and members of these remote Jewish communities, who have managed to survive over the centuries in secret.

Day 1

Departing from Lisbon, we arrive at the village of Tomar to discover the best-preserved medieval Synagogue and Mikvah of Portugal. Built in 1430 for the thriving Jewish community that once existed here. Inside, we find an eclectic museum and ingenious ancient acoustic engineering.

Our next stop is the riverfront town of Coimbra and the country’s former capital. Here, we explore the narrow old streets of the former medieval Jewish quarter and the historic University of Coimbra. The university, founded in 1290 by King Dinis, is one of the oldest universities in the world. Here, you will learn about famous Portuguese Jewish scholars whose contributions laid the groundwork for the empire. The university is also renowned for its baroque library, the Biblioteca Joanina, which can be toured in place of the former Jewish quarter.

After a lunch break, we arrive in Porto for a visit to the largest Synagogue in the Iberian Peninsula. Its construction was made possible by the heroic Captain de Barros Basto (often described as “The Dreyfuss of Portugal”) and recently depicted in the historical, dramatic film “Sefarad.”

Day 2

From Porto, we head to the remote village of Trancoso, which is famous for its walls and doors adorned with stone carvings of New Christians, “Cristãos-novos” (forced converts after 1498). Nowadays, Trancoso’s Jewish and New Christian Heritage still lives in the preserved documents, local traditions, and architecture such as the Casa de Gato Preto House (Black Cat House), Poço do Mestre (Master’s Well), and many other dwellings. Inside the recently constructed Isaac Cardoso Jewish Cultural Center and Bandarra House, we discover the shoemaker, poet, and Portuguese Nostradamus who inspired Messianic thinking in Portuguese culture.

We have a lunch break before exploring the famous village of Belmonte. A Jewish community that survived in secrecy for centuries by maintaining a tradition of endogamy and hiding all the external signs of their faith until they were discovered in the 20th century. Belmonte’s Jewish community has a new synagogue and Jewish museum, Judaica shops, and kosher food items that have won gastronomy awards.

Major Highlights

Museu Luso-Hebraico de Abraão Zacuto: The Tomar Synagogue and Mikvah Museum.
Tomar Jewish Quarter: Walk the cobbled streets of Tomar’s former Jewish Quarter.
Coimbra Biblioteca, or Jewish Quarter: Choose a visit to The Biblioteca Joanina or a walk through the medieval Jewish Quarter.
Porto Jewish Quarter: A walk through the remains of Porto’s small Jewish quarter.
Kadoorie, Mekor H’aim- Fountain of Life Synagogue: The largest Synagogue in Iberia, with stunning decorative tiles.
Trancoso: Walk the remote stone village with secret stone carvings of the Jews who were forced to convert.
Beit Mayim Hayim – House of Living Waters: A modern synagogue housed inside the Isaac Cardoso Center for Jewish Interpretation.
Belmonte Jewish Quarter: Visit old streets where the surviving Jewish community resides today.
Beit Eliahu Synagogue: Built in 1998 for the surviving Jewish community of Belmonte.
Museu Judaico, Centro do Estudos Judaicos Adriano Vasco Rodrigues: The small but important Belmonte Jewish Museum.

Jewish Lisbon Private Walking Tour

Experience the major sights of Lisbon from a Jewish perspective

Join the only Jewish guide in Portugal and visit the major sights of historic Lisbon. Along the way, you will discover artifacts, inscriptions, and monuments that no other Jewish tour of Lisbon can access.

In May of 2012, a sensational discovery by Archaeologists of Jena University revealed Hebrew inscriptions on a stone that points to the Jewish people residing in Portugal as early as 390 C.E. However, some Biblical Archaeologists believe that Tartessian texts found in Southern Portugal in 1922 suggest a Jewish presence dating to the time of King Solomon.

Walking through the quaint side streets of Lisbon, your guide and historian will explain these recent findings and unveil hidden elements in the architecture, explaining the influence of great Jewish sages like Abravanel, a philosopher and statesman, and Abraham Zacuto, who altered the course of the Age of Discovery. Throughout history, the Jews of Portugal held social and political ranks in favor of kings and maintained conciliatory relations with both Muslims and Christians. However, these periods were equally marked by inquisitions, forced baptisms, and brutal massacres, which have been overlooked in many historical references.

On this tour, you will discover the incredible story of Crypto-Jews (Cristão-Novos), a distinctive subgroup of Sephardim in Portugal who survived over 400 years of persecution in secret. At the site of the Inquisitor’s Palace, discover little-known facts about the Portuguese Inquisition and the controversy surrounding the Marquis of Pombal, whose authority both destroyed Jewish heritage and saved lives.

Discover from one of the scenic viewpoints over the city the deportation point during WWII, where thousands of Jewish refugees escaped Nazi persecution, among them famous names like Marc Chagall, Max Ernst, and many others who contributed to the arts, sciences, and politics of the world stage. Learn about Portugal’s own Oskar Schindler, a righteous gentile who is responsible for the single largest rescue mission of WWII, defying state orders to save thousands feeling the horrors of the 3rd Reich.

Beyond the former Jewish quarters, stories and artifacts festooned around the city offer a deeper understanding of the Early Modern Diaspora, the Passover Massacre, Crypto-Jewish practices, and famous Jewish families associated with Portugal.

_______________________________________________

Please be aware of other Jewish tours led by guides with similar-sounding names. There is only one authorized Jewish guide in Portugal, and he works exclusively with us here at Lisbon Explorer.

Sanchari by Chef Pillai Haripad

Sanchari by Chef Pillai is a vibrant multi-cuisine restaurant that brings together global flavors with the soul of Kerala cuisine, curated by the renowned Chef Suresh Pillai. True to its name, which means “traveler,” Sanchari offers a culinary journey through a diverse selection of dishes — from traditional Kerala specialties to North Indian classics, Arabic delights, and popular Asian-inspired creations.

The restaurant features a warm, contemporary atmosphere with stylish interiors and ample seating, making it perfect for family outings, casual dining, and celebratory meals. Every dish is a reflection of Chef Pillai’s passion for authentic flavors and meticulous attention to detail, creating a memorable dining experience for every guest.

Whether you’re craving comforting Kerala meals, spicy grills, or savory international favorites, Sanchari promises a rich, flavorful experience that celebrates the best of culinary craftsmanship.

Soofi Mandi

Soofi Mandi offers an authentic taste of the Middle East, bringing the rich flavors and traditions of Arab cuisine to your table. Known for its exquisite Mandi, a traditional rice dish infused with aromatic spices and slow-cooked meats, Soofi Mandi is the perfect place to experience the true essence of Arabian hospitality. Every dish is made with high-quality ingredients, ensuring a delightful and flavorful meal with every bite.

Prague Jewish Quarter Tour

We begin our tour in the Maisel Synagogue to get acquainted with the history of Czech Jews that dates back to the 10th century. We will visit the Pinkas Synagogue, which was turned into the Holocaust Memorial, walk through the Old Jewish Cemetery with the oldest grave from the 15th century, and learn about the customs and traditions of local Ashkenazi Jews in the Klaus Synagogue. Then we take a look at the historical Jewish Town Hall and admire the beautiful Spanish synagogue built in the Moorish style. These sights form the Jewish Museum. Apart from the museum, you can also visit the oldest active synagogue in Europe, called the Old-New Synagogue, built more than 700 years ago and used by the local Orthodox community.

Duration 3-4 hours.

Archives: Directory listings