Directory listings Archive | Page 13 of 259

Exploring Dark Tourism: A Jewish Traveler’s Journey

Dark tourism has increasingly attracted those with a curiosity for history, a desire to understand past sufferings, and a need to pay tribute to those who endured them. As a form of travel that takes visitors to sites of tragedy, dark tourism plays a significant role in Jewish cultural travel. These journeys help to preserve collective memory, recount resilience, and teach enduring lessons that stem from the darkest chapters of Jewish history. World Jewish Travel offers Jewish cultural travelers the opportunity to engage with history authentically and intimately through its Dark Tourism page, featuring destinations where visitors can explore important historical sites, memorials, museums, and tours such as a 7-Day Portugal Jewish tour, a Spanish Inquisition & Madrid Tour, the Anne Frank House, and recent additions from Black Saturday such as Hostages Square and a private tour of the Sderot, the Nova Festival Site, and the Gaza Envelope.

7-Day Portugal Jewish Tour

The 7-Day Portugal Jewish Tour is a popular choice for those interested in exploring the rich history of Jewish communities in Portugal. Embark on a captivating tour that takes you to the enchanting destinations of Lisbon, Belmonte, Porto, and more. Experience the rich heritage and vibrant culture through guided tours and immersive activities. A highlight of this journey is the visit to Sintra, a charming town that boasts a UNESCO World Heritage Site status and a historic Jewish Quarter dating back to pre-Inquisition times. Join an extraordinary tour, where Portugal’s rich history seamlessly intertwines with its captivating present.

Casa de la Villa, Madrid – Photo from Mysterium Tours

Spanish Inquisition & Legends of Madrid Tour

Experience the Spanish Inquisition & Legends of Madrid tour, where you can explore the streets of Madrid with a guide dressed in period attire, and learn about the secrets of Madrid and the Spanish Inquisition. Wander the charming alleys, encounter ancient churches and monasteries, and be part of an unforgettable evening. Unearth the untold mysteries and spine-tingling legends that have shaped Madrid’s captivating history during the Spanish Inquisition. This tour offers a captivating opportunity to immerse yourself in the experience of the Inquisition, providing a firsthand glimpse into its historical significance.

The Anne Frank House

The Anne Frank House stands as a profound monument to history and a testament to the human spirit. Located in Amsterdam, it serves as a poignant educational site, where the diary and story of Anne Frank move from the written page to a tangible experience. Visitors are granted the rare opportunity to walk through the secret annex where Anne and her family hid for over two years during World War II. The museum not only preserves the hiding place but also exhibits artifacts from the Frank family and others who were persecuted during the Holocaust. Through multimedia exhibits and original displays, the Anne Frank House not only honors the memory of those lost but also promotes a message of tolerance and the importance of human rights.

Hostages Square

Black Saturday’s effects hang over Hostages Square, the site of the #BringThemHomeNow movement. It’s a stark testament to the war with Hamas and the Israeli citizens’ resilience. Immerse yourself in memorials, art exhibits, gatherings, and more that depict the pain inflicted on hundreds of victims and families. Experience the power of communal outreach that transforms this space into a vibrant hub for advocacy and remembrance.

Nova Festival Massacre Site Rei’m, Israel- Photo by REUTERS/TYRONE SIU on JPOST

Visiting Sderot, Nova Festival, and the Gaza Envelope Tour

The Sderot, Nova Festival, and Gaza Envelope Tour is a private, guided tour visiting the Gaza envelope to uncover the rich history, geographical wonders, and political dynamics of the region. Experience the Sderot lookout and witness the aftermath of the Hamas attack at the Nova Festival site. As you drive through, observe the visible scars and listen to the echoes of distant shelling. Conclude this remarkable exploration with inspiring stories, such as the uplifting efforts of the Shuva Brothers. Led by licensed and insured guides, this tour offers a unique perspective into the post-Black Saturday Gaza Envelope.

Conclusion

Dark Tourism is not solely anchored in the past; it also casts a light on current issues that affect Jewish communities worldwide. Exploring historical synagogues facing contemporary challenges, as well as sites that bear witness to modern acts of anti-Semitism, provides a profound connection to the current state of Jewish culture. Understanding and preserving Jewish history and culture are not only acts of remembrance but also of cultural identity reinforcement. By exploring these sites, travelers sustain the narrative of Jewish resilience and ensure that such stories continue to inspire future generations. WJT provides a heartfelt invitation to explore, learn, and honor the past, encouraging travelers to visit the Dark Tourism page and craft their path of remembrance and understanding.

Havana Jewish Heritage Private Tour

Highlights

This tour takes you through the history of Jewish immigration and presence in Cuba.
You will also see Havana’s treasures up close while enjoying personalized local service in a fully customizable private tour for you and your group in one of our classic vintage cars.

Duration

Up to 6 Hours

Customize Your Tour:

Feel free to create your one-of-a-kind tour with ease. Mention your points of interest to our knowledgeable guide or simply ask them for advice on places to visit and they will ensure the tour is as enjoyable as possible.

What’s included

Local Classic Car and Driver
Local Private Tour Guide
Free Pick Up and Drop Off

Recommended Itinerary:

(A monetary contribution will be required at some sites to support the Jewish community)

Pick up at the cruise terminal or accommodation.
The Hebrew Sephardi Center
The Exhibition of the Holocaust (the Sephardi Center in Havana)
Beth Shalom Synagogue
The Jewish cemetery in Guanabacoa. (OPTIONAL)
Admire the unique decor of Hotel Raquel while having a cocktail.
Acosta Street
Muralla Street
Typical Cuban lunch at a local “Paladar”

Optional if time permits

Visit Old Havana district (San Francisco de Asís square – La Cathedral square – Old Square – Arms square – Palacio de Los Capitanes Generales – Morro Fortress).

Visit Modern Havana district ( Malecón Boulevard – Capitol – Central Park – Bar-restaurants- Floridita and Bodeguita del Medio – University of Havana – Revolution Square – Cigars Factory – Rum Museum – Colon’s Cemetery)
Return to cruise terminal or accommodation.

Boost test

Test boost payment

Hollmann Beletage

Robert Hollmann founded this boutique hotel in October of 2003 and it has slowly
expanded over the years. He studied in hotel school and after graduating,
worked as a patissier and chef in Vienna, New York, and Honolulu. He
went on to study acting and after playing leading roles on stage in Berlin,
Vienna, and Regensburg, he decided to open a space where he could direct his
own shows.

When the hotel first opened, nine rooms were designed and
built around a spacious living room, kitchen, and dining room shared space.
Three years later, seven charming, Viennese-styled rooms were added, in
addition to a sauna, salon, and new reception area. In 2008, nine more rooms, a
hotel cinema, a garden, and a playroom were added, which completed the
magnificent hotel.

Hollmann Beletage is located in the city center of Vienna,
located just 2 minutes from St. Stephen’s Cathedral. There is plenty to explore
right outside the hotel and is just a short ride away from the city’s top sites
and attractions. When you come home from a long day of exploring, you will find
several spots around the hotel to relax; you can choose from the cinema, spa,
garden, or cafe. The small touches, such as daily fruit baskets, free iPads
(upon request for the duration of your stay), and authentic hotel staff will
make your stay unlike any other.

Abel Hernández Eskenazi

I am an active member of the Jewish community since I was a child. I am part of several of the community projects such as the Albert Einstein Sunday School, the youth organization, and religious services. I have a degree in Telecommunications and Electronics Engineering and I am an enthusiastic student of Jewish history in Cuba also. I am part of the development of the app “Jews in Cuban History” about the impact of the Jewish minority in the different Cuban historical periods.

I am proud to offer tour guide services focused on showcasing Havana’s rich Jewish heritage and current affairs from the perspective of the members of this community themselves.

Free Budapest Jewish Quarter Tour

This 2-hour tour is about the past and the present of the Budapest Jewish District. We take you to the main sights and hidden symbols of the Jewish District. You will learn the deep and sensitive history based on touching (personal) stories. Since the Jewish District is now the epicenter of Budapest nightlife and gastronomy your guide will also tell you funky stories on street art, ruin bars, and street food.
Further reasons to do this tour:
You will get a mix of fascinating history lessons and the local urban art scene
You will fall in love with this quirky, cosmopolitan neighborhood of Budapest
You will understand the presence of Jewish people’s life
We have stories that can’t be found in any guidebooks.

Portugal Jewish Tour- 7 Days

Embark on a captivating 7-day private tour of Porto, Lisbon, and Belmonte, led by licensed guides. Explore historical Jewish quarters, synagogues, and the Jewish Museum. Gain insights into the Portuguese Inquisition and remnants of Jewish life. Delve into the sobering history, understanding its impact and the resilience of Jewish communities. Continue to Sintra for a unique cultural experience. Learn about forced conversions, escape stories, and the B’nai Anousim (Children of Oppression). Enjoy deluxe hotels for added comfort during your exploration of Portugal’s rich Jewish heritage.

Image Attribution:
All from: <https://blog.nli.org.il/en/portugal_inquisition/, https://k-larevue.com/en/the-law-of-naturalization-of-portuguese-jews-expelled-during-the-inquisition-interview-with-jose-ribeiro-e-castro/ , https://mjhnyc.org/events/virtual-walking-tour-jewish-porto/>

Hostages Square (#BringThemHomeNow)

Explore the public plaza-turned-headquarters for the #BringThemHomeNow movement, born in the aftermath of Black Saturday. While walking around you will come across various art installations and banners, depicting messages on behalf of the Israeli hostages and their families. Spend your time going from one visual art piece to another, to really take in the thought behind each one. Witness the chilling impact of the eerie empty dinner table at Hostages Square in person, with each vacant seat serving as a poignant representation of a missing hostage. Afterwards, step into an immersive mock Hamas tunnel, walking through a dimly lit, claustrophobic passage while coming face to face with hostages’ names, family messages, and day count markings since October 7th. Throughout the week there are protests, community gatherings, news reporting, interviews, fundraisers, concerts, and speeches given at the square. A public initiative, Hostages Square stands as a testament to the strength and solidarity of the people of Israel and should not be missed.

Image Attribution:
All from: <https://stories.bringthemhomenow.net/>

Nova Festival Massacre Site

The Nova Festival Massacre Site stands as a solemn tribute to the lives tragically taken during the Nova Festival massacre on October 7, 2023. Located in the Re’im parking lot near Kibbutz Re’im, this poignant monument serves as a powerful reminder of the events that unfolded on that fateful morning. Under the cover of a rocket attack from the Gaza Strip, Hamas operatives launched a surprise attack on Israel, leading to a devastating massacre at the festival. Today, this memorial site immortalizes the victims’ memories through heartfelt tributes and artistic expressions, offering a space for reflection and remembrance.

A Place of Reflection and Symbolism

Visitors to the Nova Festival Massacre Site are greeted by photographs of the victims, set against the backdrop of the very site where the tragedy occurred. Established by the Jewish National Fund (JNF) and the victims’ families, the memorial includes trees planted in memory of those lost and posts displaying the victims’ images, alongside Israeli flags. Red anemone sculptures, crafted by artists from across the country, symbolize the vibrant lives cut short and the natural beauty of the nearby Re’im forest. A sign bearing the message “Bring Them Home Now” and 40 colorful butterfly paintings represent the kidnapped festival attendees, adding layers of meaning to this deeply moving site. Thousands of visitors, including school groups, security personnel, and international delegations, continue to visit the memorial to pay their respects and honor the victims.

Image attribution:
All From: <https://www.jpost.com/breaking-news/article-783094>

Visiting Sderot, Nova Festival and the Gaza Envelope

Explore the profound landscapes of the Gaza Envelope on a private, guided tour and delve into the region’s history, geography, and politics. Visit the Sderot lookout and Nova Festival site, witnessing the aftermath of the Hamas attack. See the physical scars in the area while driving through, and hear echoes of distant shelling. Conclude with inspiring stories, such as the Shuva Brothers’ uplifting efforts. Led by licensed and insured guides, the tour offers a unique perspective into the Gaza Envelope post Black Saturday.

Image attribution:
All From: <https://israelwinetour.co.il/visiting-sderot-nova-festival-and-the-gaza-envelope/>

Archives: Directory listings