What inspired you to go abroad?
To expand my horizon, get to know other cultures, challenge myself and my views— that's always been my thing. And my curiosity is never-ending. Since 2015, I have traveled solo around the world, and have made great connections that go beyond borders, religion, colors.
Why did you choose Abraham Hostel?
I had been to Abraham Hostel briefly before, and thus the name rang a bell when I got in touch with a girl through a Facebook group who told me about her experience volunteering in this hostel.
The weekly Shabbat Dinner is always a fun event!
At that point, I was looking for a long-term stay somewhere. Jerusalem has fascinated me ever since I had first traveled there, and one thing led to another and then life led me back. Conveniently, they had the perfect position for me, and as a Tours Intern and I stayed a total of 5 months— after extending three times!
What was your favorite part about Israel?
Despite being such a small country, Israel is so diverse in many ways: from the fertile Golan Heights, to the vast desert in the South, to the breezy seaside city Tel Aviv, to the history-charged alleys of Jerusalem, surrounded by mountains, and not to forget, the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea. People from all walks of life, historical sights with major importance in the three monotheistic religions, the tastes, the languages, the music... A must see country!
What made your experience abroad unique?
Surely the people and the general mindset was unique. I formed friendships that are still active today; everyone was so amazingly welcoming, open-minded and helpful. And all other things aside: the FOOD! Hummus4Life.
How did local staff support you throughout your program?
Perfectly! My manager was always available for questions and we spent free time together as well. I became friends with pretty much all of the staff. We often shared drinks after work and I got shown around town by them and taken to shabbat dinners or small concerts. Feedback for my work was always provided, and I felt my own opinion was heard and appreciated.
During my time with Abraham Tours, I went on pilot tours like mountain biking
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently?
Frankly, for me at that point in my life, working with Abraham Hostels & Tours was the best decision I could have made. Everything came together perfectly. I planned to stay eight weeks, ended up staying 5 months, do I need to say more?
Describe a typical day in the life of your program.
Every day was different, and my tasks were very diverse. I sat in the office and wrote reports, or I was in-field on pilot tours or participating in existing tours. I updated the printed folders when needed, helped with managing an advertisement in a German magazine, and reached out to other European hostels. I often had to go back and forth between the three hostels while my base was in Jerusalem - but I loved this, as I got to learn and see a lot.
What did you enjoy doing in your free time?
As an intern I was able to participate in the hostel's tours for free, which I did a lot, since they also explored other corners of the country. I got to know Jerusalem's nightlife, chilled at the beach in Tel Aviv, went to concerts and museums, hiking and camping - there's so much to do in the area.
Rock-climbing excursions
What was your accommodation like? What did you like best about it?
All volunteers are accommodated in a dorm room. The sizes of the rooms vary depending on the hostel you're located at. It's a "private" room that you'll only share with your colleagues, but you have to have the right mindset to constantly have people around you. We became friends very quickly, spent our free time together, and none of us minded the decreased privacy. The hostels themselves are in a great location, provide activities, a bar, food, and you can meet both locals and travelers.
What is one thing every participant should know before participating in your program?
My exact position doesn't exist at the hostel anymore, but the marketing position comes closest from the programs that are still available to choose from.
One thing to be aware of is that there is only one person doing your position, while most of the volunteers are doing "regular" hostel tasks with a fixed schedule, like helping out during breakfast and events, your schedule will be different and a lot more inconsistent. Flexibility is needed, but in return you can expect just the same amount of flexibility if you want to make plans for yourself.
I also participated in other tours, like here in Caesarea
Now that you're home, how has your program abroad impacted your life?
It has impacted my life so much! I'm in love with this country— I have lived in Jerusalem a total of 9 months now, and have continued to keep in touch with the Hostel and Tours consistently. I have found a second home thanks to this position, and I'll happily come back soon.
Would you recommend Abraham Hostels & Tours to others? Why?
As you might have guessed by now, I totally recommend working with Abraham Hostels & Tours. The staff is great, the facilities are great, and the country is great. All the hostels are centrally located, and there is always something to do. If you are considering going to Israel for a longer stay, Abraham Hostels & Tours is a great opportunity.
