What does the cost include?
The program cost include tuition, round-trip airfare from a New York area airport, accommodations, three meals a day, medical insurance (while in Israel or Europe), transportation, luggage insurance, T-shirt, and all admissions as per final itinerary. Not included is domestic travel before and after the program commences, $180 registration fee, $20 for the group fund and individual spending money.

How religious is the program?
MGI is not religiously or politically affiliated. We do seek to experience Judaism in the most meaningful and pluralistic way. Groups do observe Shabbat and do keep kosher, however, during free time participants may purchase non-kosher food.
We do not pray three times a day, but do have a meaningful and special approach to Judaism, seeking to enjoy special spiritual moments such as Kabbalat Shabbat and Havdala service. On Saturday mornings, praying is optional. We encourage our participants to explore various Jewish customs and observances. We believe that Shabbat is a very special time, especially in Israel, and we do "take a break" from the hustle and bustle of the program to experience a spiritual and special day, to reflect and enjoy a day of rest.

Is the program educational?
Yes! MGI program emphasizes enjoyable, informal learning. Participants take part in creative, hands-on seminars relevant to Israel and Judaism. But, we do it all in a fun and super exciting way!

What about Shabbat and Kashrut?
MGI program seek to experience Judaism in the most meaningful and pluralistic way. The program emphasizes special spiritual moments. Guided by the staff, our participants celebrate Shabbat as a group. All of our programs provide kosher meals and do not use transportation on Shabbat.

What about Group staff (Madrichim)?
We at MGI believe that staff (Madrichim) is one of the most integral pieces to the success of the program. We therefore seek out the most qualified individuals to lead our programs. American Madrichim must be at least 21 years old who have to Israel before and have experience working with youth in an informal and/or formal setting. We first interview all potential staff. In May of each year, we hold a 4-day training and screening seminar. Our Israeli colleagues come to this seminar and together we work with the staff on all aspects of the program. Only after this seminar do we select the best staff to lead our programs. Israeli Madrichim All are graduates of the IDF and have experience working with American youth. Our Israeli staff includes tour guides that are licensed through the ministry of tourism and or other accredited schools. We have two offices in Israel that work year round to select and train the best staff available. Through the Israel Experience department of the Jewish Agency for Israel, two seminars are held, one a screening workshop and one a training seminar.

What can you tell me about Accommodations & Transportation?
MGI will be staying at modern youth hostels, dormitories, field schools, kibbutz guesthouses and a few nights under the stars. These accommodations are well suited for travel in Israel and have both dining halls and recreational facilities. A private modern, air-conditioned bus is used for travel.

Do I need Spending Money?
All activities are covered in the cost of the program. The only additional money you will need is for the group fund ($20) and spending money. You will have supervised free time during the program to buy your family and friends lots of great presents from Israel, as well as a falafel or two for you. Based on our experience, we recommend $100-$150 per month. Of course, should you want to bring more, you can. Our staff holds all the money for our participants, to ensure it safe keeping. Our staff also exchanges money for the group, approximately once a week.

What about my dirty laundry?
Laundry is done "camp style" approximately once every ten days. Our staff calls a laundry service that comes and picks up the dirty laundry and usually returns it the next day. Each participant should bring a laundry bag that will identify his or her clothing. (Availability of laundry service is dependent on where the group is located.)

What type of luggage should I bring?
Bring only one main piece of luggage. Usually duffel on wheels with a handle is best. Pack a soft gym bag as well, a "3-day" bag as we call it. On weekend when you will stay in an Israeli home, or sleep outdoors, you will pack everything you need in this bag, leaving your main luggage stored safely away.

What if I get hurt or sick?
Medical services and insurance coverage for illness/injury while on MGI trip is provided through the Jewish Agency's Israel Experience department and is included in the cost of the program.

How can my friends and family keep in touch?
Group e-mail addresses and contact numbers will be forwarded to you as the summer approaches. We highly recommend that friends and family write or send emails to you. The address in Israel is:

Name of participant
MGI
JCC Maccabi Xperience
12 Hess Street
94-185 Jerusalem, Israel