(Photo: Envato)
Today is the official first day of summer. It's the perfect time to take a break from your daily routine and set out on an adventure or simply relax. In this day and age, there are many options for kosher vacations, kosher hotels and kosher tours. Some of you will already have your itineraries set, while others are still searching for the perfect vacation idea. Regardless of where you are in your planning process, the kosher travel trends for summer 2023 provide a diverse range of options, from a bit of adventure to relaxation, family bonding and immersive cultural experiences. No matter your family's preferences or the type of experience you're seeking, you're bound to find a kosher vacation this summer that's just the right fit for you.
Sailing Kosher: The Allure of Kosher Cruises
The luxury of a cruise is hard to resist, and it's no surprise that kosher cruises are making waves this summer. Waking up to the gentle sway of the ship, the salt air filling your lungs, and a different picturesque coastal town or city greeting you everyday sounds like heaven. Another option is kosher river cruises on the Danube and Rhine. These cruises offer a unique way to delve into Jewish heritage, allowing passengers to drift past historic sites and cities that hold significant Jewish history. Kosher cruises offer the best of both worlds: the chance to explore diverse locations while enjoying top-notch kosher cuisine, minyan, and Jewish learning opportunities. A floating kosher hotel, if you will.
Adding a touch of adventure and exclusivity, kosher catamaran sailing on the Mediterranean is another trend making waves. Offering a more personal and flexible experience, these sailing trips provide the opportunity to explore secluded Mediterranean beaches, bask in the sun on the deck, and enjoy kosher meals under the stars. It's a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, with a kosher twist.
Cruise ship on the sea at sunset (Photo: Envato)
Wild Adventures: Kosher Safaris
Kosher safaris are capturing the imagination this summer. Africa, with its spectacular wildlife and majestic landscapes, is a popular choice. These kosher-friendly safaris provide not only the thrill of encountering wildlife in their natural surroundings but also offer delicious kosher meals, minyan and Jewish cultural experiences. Whether it's tracking the iconic Big Five in the African savannah or unwinding by a campfire under a star-studded sky, these kosher safaris offer a unique blend of adventure and culture.
Adding to the richness of the experience are the cities of Cape Town and Johannesburg, both home to vibrant Jewish communities and historical sites. Visitors can explore the Jewish museums, synagogues, and memorials, offering a deep dive into South Africa's Jewish heritage. This integration of urban exploration with the wild allure of the safari makes kosher safaris a must-try trend in the summer of 2023.
African lion seen on South African safari (Photo: Envato)
Luxury Stay: Kosher Hotels and All-Inclusive Resorts
Kosher hotels and all-inclusive resorts are gaining popularity for their ability to provide a relaxing and worry-free vacation. They provide kosher meals, minyan and some even have a mikveh on premises. Some also offer entertainment, activities and day trips. A few even offer day camp for kids, allowing the little ones to engage in fun and educational activities while adults can unwind. Whether you fancy lounging by the pool, relaxing on a private beach, or perhaps engaging in water sports, these resorts have you covered.
For those who prefer the bustle of the city, there are kosher hotels situated in urban environments. Here, guests can enjoy all the amenities of a kosher vacation while having easy access to explore the city's attractions, kosher restaurants, shops, and cultural sites. Whether it's a beachfront resort in the Caribbean, a boutique hotel in Europe, or a city hotel, these kosher establishments are redefining relaxation, blending comfort with a host of options for entertainment and exploration.
The Classic: Road Trips
The Classic: Road Trips
The charm of hitting the open road continues to captivate travelers. Road trips offer a sense of freedom, adventure, and discovery that's hard to match. You set your own pace, explore hidden gems off the beaten path, and create your unique journey. Planning is key to a successful kosher road trip. Carefully plotting your route to include stops near cities or towns with kosher restaurants can turn mealtimes into a culinary adventure.
Even if there aren’t any kosher restaurants, it is not difficult to find kosher products in supermarkets throughout the United States.You can usually find pre-packaged kosher meals, snack items, or ingredients for cooking your meals, there are plenty of options to choose from. From the comfort of an Airbnb to the rustic charm of a campsite, road trips offer a range of accommodation options to suit all preferences and budgets.
California desert road trip (Photo: Envato)
The Digital Influence: Social Media and TV-Inspired Vacations
The digital age is affecting how people choose their travel destinations. Social media platforms, particularly TikTok and Instagram, have become the new travel brochures, offering endless scrolling of captivating travel content. Users are drawn to stunning landscapes, vibrant cityscapes, and intriguing cultural experiences that are being shared from every corner of the globe.
TV shows have also begun to influence travel trends. Viewers want to explore the locations brought to life on their screens. From visiting the picturesque towns portrayed in popular series to tracing the steps of favorite characters in bustling cities, pop culture is playing a major role in shaping travel itineraries. When you see a location that you must visit, it’s best to check our kosher vacation and kosher restaurant guides to see what is available for kosher travelers..
Bonding Journeys: Family and Multigenerational Travel
Family and multigenerational travel is another trend that continues to flourish. Traveling together as a family or with multiple generations is not only a great way to create lasting memories but also an opportunity to strengthen bonds through shared experiences. In this day and age, when families are scattered across the globe, a family vacation is a great opportunity for a family reunion. With so many people involved, it is very important to plan this in advance. You must choose a date and let everyone know so they can block out their schedules. My friend told me that her parents told them about their family vacation a year in advance. Even if you don't know what the tip will be, you need to choose your dates as early as possible.
There are many different types of multigenerational family vacations. Some grandparents do a bar/bat mitzvah trip with their grandchildren. Perhaps a bit of adventure on a kosher safari that can cater to different ages and interests. Other options include a kosher cruise or an all-inclusive resort to reconnect, enjoy shared experiences, and create lasting memories. The availability of kosher accommodations, food and amenities allow families to focus on enjoying their time together. When choosing the type of vacation, keep in mind the ages of the children. There might be a large age range, from babies to teenagers and young adults so find a vacation that can cater to different ages.
Relax on the beach in Mexico (Photo: Envato)
Destination Inspiration: The Top Kosher Summer Vacation Spots
There are plenty of options for your kosher summer vacation, from vibrant cities to serene beaches. Each destination has its unique charm and offers a different experience, so it's all about finding the one that matches your personal preferences and expectations.
Europe is always popular, and this year is no exception. Greece, France, Cyprus, Switzerland, Austria, Spain, Romania, and Prague are all excellent choices. These countries are known for their rich history, beautiful landscapes, and bustling cities. There are a number of kosher hotels and resorts to choose from, some open all year round and some just for the summer. Whether you're interested in the classic beauty of Greece's islands, the historic charm of Prague, or the romantic allure of France, you can’t go wrong with a European summer vacation.
But Europe is not the only destination with a lot to offer. Mexico and Morocco, for instance, blend exciting culture with beautiful landscapes. From the beach resorts of Mexico to the exotic charm of Morocco, these countries promise a unique and memorable vacation experience. Further afield, South Africa and Peru beckon with their rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. Dubai and Abu Dhabi continue to be popular kosher vacation destinations if you can tolerate the heat.
Conclusion
The summer of 2023 is shaping up to be a season of diverse kosher travel opportunities. We have come a long way from summer vacations in the Catskills. You can choose just about any type of vacation and find options offering kosher meals and minyan. You can choose a relaxing all-inclusive kosher hotel/resort vacation or hit the open road and explore the country. If you are looking for some adventure then maybe a kosher cruise or kosher safari vacation. Perhaps use your summer vacation to get the family together for some bonding time. Whatever you choose, have an amazing adventure and create beautiful memories!