Top Passover Destinations
What is the top location that most Jewish families go to for Pesach? Some families stay home, some stay local, and some love to go all out. For those who like to stay home, their destination is their living room. For them, it is much simpler and easier to remain where they are and prep everything themselves instead of going through all the traveling and prep. There are families who live on the east coast that attend Pesach programs that are a 2–3-hour drive. This allows families to still get away for Pesach without being too away. Lastly, for those who appreciate a change of scenery- international destinations such as locations in Europe and Asia are highly attractive.
Do not think that Pesach is held in only a few locations. There are programs literally everywhere, such as the United States, Mexico, Bahamas, Caribbean, Europe, Asia, Middle East, Central and South America, Africa, Israel, Tunisia, and South Africa. There is a location for everyone. However, most people are looking for a destination with good weather and pools/beaches.
Florida is one of the top locations that families travel to. It is an average flight for those living in the United States, the currency is the same, there is Jewish life, Jewish grocery stores, and restaurants. The weather is perfect pool-weather during the day and provides some chilliness at night, the best of both worlds. If your family needs to grocery shop for some emergency food, you are familiar with the kosher symbols. If you would like to eat out at a restaurant, there are loads of kosher for Passover restaurants available. No need to worry about exchanging your currency or speaking another language.
Another top destination is Mexico, quite like Floridian weather with more of the vacation feel. There aren’t that many Jews outside of the hotel that you’ll be staying at. Mexico is known for pure relaxation. Although, there is a different currency and a different language- most of us can get by quite well. You can get the vacation and enjoyment all while being relatively close to home, as opposed to being a 10–15-hour flight away.
Furthermore, Greece has been a successful location as well. The weather is amazing, although it does get chilly at night. There are beautiful views, beaches, and pools that cannot be compared to other locations. The currency and language are different, but at these programs most people speak Hebrew and French. Greece is a perfect location for those who always wanted to go but did not want to deal with all the Jewish necessities, like food, minyanim, and Shabbat at a hotel.
Lastly, Israel is a popular location as well. Especially during this time, many Jews are looking for Israel based programs to support Israel and businesses. Many countries profit off tourists and during this time not many Jews are traveling to and from Israel. Many families have relatives in Israel and visit during Pesach. Instead of having your relatives host, cook, and go through so much- many people attend an Israel based program together. It’s a great idea to support Israeli businesses now when the economy and business have seen better times. The currency and language are different, although most people are familiar with speaking Hebrew and converting to shekalim. Many Israelis speak English as well and would prefer to practice their English with Americans.
All in all, Jewish families enjoy visiting locations with wonderful atmospheres and environments. What do you think the top destination for Pesach programs will be this year?