How to Have a Jewish Vacation

Now that warmer weather is here (at least in the Northern Hemisphere) many of us are thinking about vacation time. It is important to find time to take a break from the routine of life, relax and refresh our bodies and souls. How does an observant Jew ensure that his vacation doesn't make observance difficult and vacationing stressful? There are many considerations when planning a Jewish vacation. Here are a few suggestions.

1. Look for a kosher hotel.

If you are planning to stay in a hotel, ask if they have a "Shabbos elevator" (one that does not require you to operate it directly) or accommodations on a lower floor so that you can move about on Shabbat without difficulty. Does the hotel use electronic keys? These cannot be used on Shabbat. There may be restrictions that prevent the lighting of candles on Shabbat. If so check with your rabbi to find out how to deal with that issue. If you are planning a camping trip, be sure to review the campground's rules and regulations to insure that there will be no conflict with Shabbat observance.

2. Search for kosher food.

Even in this internet age this task might not be as easy as you think! Does the hotel have a kosher restaurant? If not is there one nearby? Is there a kosher grocery store in the area? What about Shabbat meals? Is there a community nearby where one might spend Shabbat? Is there a Jewish traveler's aid society who could arrange for your Shabbat needs? If you are camping, carefully plan how you will store your food. Are you a tent camper? Make sure no insects can invade your food storage.

3. Find a synagogue.

Check with your denomination (Orthodox Union, United Synagogue, URJ, etc.) to find a synagogue near where you plan to stay. You can also check the Internet for suggestions. If you are going to a place where there are few Jewish accommodations, you consult with your local Chabad-Lubavitch center or other outreach program to learn what special arrangements might be made.

4. "Shabbat-in-a-Bag"

Several years ago my wife and I came up with what we thought was a unique way to have our Shabbos ritual items packed and ready to go when we went on the road. We called it "Shabbos-in-a-Bag." We quickly discovered that our idea was not so unique! However here is how we set up our Shabbat-in-a-Bag so that we would have everything we needed to take Shabbos with us on vacation.

1. We found a lovely set of silver-plated four cups with a matching metal tray that is just large enough to hold two challah rolls. We purchased the set and a beautiful silk napkin. Ready for Kiddush!
2. Well almost. We take a small bottle of wine or grape juice with us. Now we're ready for Kiddush. (By the way, if you are crossing state/provincial lines or traveling to another country, you probably will not be able to take wine with you. Under those circumstances grape juice will suffice.)
3. There are small candle sticks that can be added to the bag. Be sure to include candles and matches of course. If you don't have the proper size candle sticks, check your local Judaica store. If you are staying where candles are not permitted, check with your rabbi before leaving on your trip.
4. For Havdallah, we save the last three or four inches of a Havdallah candle and put it in the bag. Spices wrapped in a piece of cheesecloth and tied with a ribbon serve as besamim. 
5. Place all these items in an attractive canvas bag and you have Shabbat-in-a-bag!

Certainly there are many other considerations. You will want to be sure to pack a talit, a siddur, and other necessities, etc. Hopefully I have given you a place to start as you plan for your trip. Remember: a Jewish vacation is not a vacation from Judaism! Have a safe and restful time. May your going be in peace and your return be in peace..

Related links: 

Surviving Summer Vacation

Family Vacation Tips

The Jewish Way to Travel