JCC Krakow Holocaust Survivors Trip to Israel - Day III

Our group at the Masada joined by Laurence Weinbaum of the World Jewish Congress.

Our group at the Masada joined by Laurence Weinbaum of the World Jewish Congress.

Today we got really, really high and then as low as you can go. We left Jerusalem and headed east to the incredible fortress of Masada. Most of us took the cable car to the top but Jonathan and Asia hiked up the Snake Path. Happily, they made it up alive and we all met on the top. Laurence Weinbaum, of the World Jewish Congress, who helped organize our trip to Masada joined our group and told us about WJC and its important role in the Jewish world.

Krystyna and Pani Zosia at the Masada.

Krystyna and Pani Zosia at the Masada.

Pani Zosia and Laurence have been friends for years 

Pani Zosia and Laurence have been friends for years 

After Masada we hopped back on the bus for the drive to the Dead Sea, the lowest place on earth. The sun was shining as we put on our bathing suits and went into the water. From the first-timers among us there were cries of disbelief as we floated around in the salty, mineral laden water. We took some great photos and even covered ourselves in mud!

Jan, enjoying the breeze at the Dead Sea for the first time.

Jan, enjoying the breeze at the Dead Sea for the first time.

As the sun began to set we hurried back to our hotel for Kabbalat Shabbat and dinner. Rabbi Avi and his wife Hadley came and met us and led us in an inspiring Kabbalat Shabbat and discussion.

Shabbat dinner was great but of course we all missed Kasia’s cooking at the JCC!
Tomorrow we will rest, it’s been a very busy few days and Shabbat is here just in time.