Masa Israel Journey Blog

An Unexpected Israel

December 20, 2012

When I decided to study abroad, I knew I wanted an experience that was more exotic than the usual study abroad options Europe offered.

So, I chose Israel.

After a long flight and an adventurous taxi ride, I arrived at the Masa Israel-accredited University of Haifa.

Tired and jet-lagged, I entered my apartment to find three students jabbering in an unfamiliar language.

I froze in the doorway and their conversation came to a halt.

One approached me and mumbled in that mysterious language, but I was too confused to answer.

Next, she spoke to me in Hebrew and I indicated that I...

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True Coexistence in Tel Aviv-Jaffa

December 18, 2012

By Abigail Winard, Tikkun Olam in Tel Aviv-Jaffa

The opportunity to live, study, and volunteer in the heart of Jaffa, for five months through Masa Israel’s Tikkun Olam in Tel Aviv-Jaffa program, was an unforgettable and life-changing experience.

Since Jaffa is home to a diverse population of Jews, Muslims, and Christians, I was surrounded by a multicultural prism.

I lived within a five minute walk from the Jaffa flea market, clock tower, Jaffa port, and the old city, which housed trendy souvenir shops, artist vendors, and museums.

I also lived right behind a mosque and would hear the Adhan, or call to prayer, five times a day from a speakerphone.

Freedom of religion is completely in practice in Jaffa and people truly take...