Holiday supp 2013

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Hamodia PRESENTS:national

| Your Comprehensive holiday Guide

EXPLORE !

MAY 2013 / SIVAN 5773

With

Hershel

| may 2013- sivan 5773 | HAMODIA MAGAZINE |

Free Family Fun

Great Free Trips in the City

Like a Shepherd interview to his Exclusive with Flock Rebbetzin Dunner

Rain of Blessing Yael Mermelstein

Your comprehensive holiday guide YOUR COMPREHENSIVE HOLIDAY GUIDE

ASHDIR

Davos - Switzerland A Dream Come True at Gesher Club Hotel 18 July - 15 August 2013 • Beautiful hotel under the management of Dani Kraus • Gourmet glatt kosher meals catered by Shalom Bernholtz under the supervision of Rabbi A.Y. Schwartz Shalita-Vienna.

• Swimming pool with separate hours • Fascinating tours • Davos Guest Card - for free transportation including cable cars in the area.

Switzerland: Dani Kraus Tel: ++41 (0) 445862032 London: David Tel: ++44 (0) 7598959411 Manchester: Mrs. C .Kupetz Tel: ++44 (0) 01612786668; ++44 (0)7813963945

Gesher Tours: ++972-3-5260905 www.kosherhoteldavos.com | davos@geshertours.co.il

Since

2005

‫הווי דתי ואוכל כשר‬

Hi! My name is Hershel and I’m here to assist you in choosing your holiday. Look for me throughout the magazine.

contents MAY 2013 / SIVAN 5773

5 Editors letter 88 Zmanim 92 Directory

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INTERnational

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Smiling Faces

Like A Shepherd To His Flock

Vacation Variation

Flying With Faith

Holiday or Headache

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Rain of Blessing

Huddled Masses

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Here And There

The Holiday That Never Was

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Travel Tips

The Perfect Vacation

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Free Family Fun

Kashering Made Clear

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Travelling Into Yesteryear

74 79 84

Dear Readers, Recently, whilst seated on a plane en route to South Africa, I happened to start a conversation with my seat companion — a youngish, married man. He seemed like a fairly family-minded, civilised young man and I was therefore surprised when he described to me the reason for his taking this particular plane ride to Africa. He was, in his own words ‘doing a dream vacation’ — that is, escaping his boring, civilised life for a week’s holiday, safari-style.

DEAR READERS

Although innocuous enough, I was disturbed to hear his focus for the week seemed to be mostly on throwing off the shackles of his restricted life and reveling in the party life he had planned.

It struck me forcefully that as Yidden there is a stark difference in the way we ‘holiday’.

It says in Parshas Veyechi: “Yissochor chamor gorem roivetz bein hamishpeshayim vayar menucha ki tov ve”es haeretz ki noaimah vayeid shicmo lisboil vayehi lmaas oiveid” There is a comparison brought between yidden and the donkey (Parshas Vayechi). Whilst resting, a donkey will never shed its load — in stark opposition to a horse who drops everything at its earliest convenience. Like the donkey, we carry our ‘burdens’ with pride. When we holiday, they accompany us — Shabbos, kashrus, tznius, and the like.

Our hope is that this holiday guide will be your accompaniment, — whether you are going abroad, travelling nationally or staying in your home town.

In Kashering Made Clear, R’ Lieberman guides you through the basics of preparing your non-kosher holiday kitchen for use, whilst Mordechai Schmutter offers us a humourous look at some of the more tedious parts of the aeroplane rituals in ‘Huddled Up’.

In ‘Like a Shepherd to his Flock’, we bring you an in-depth look at the harmonious family camp which Dayan and Rebbetzin Dunner have been at the helm of and provide you with some tear-jerking fodder in the story ‘Rain of Blessing’ by Yael Mermelstein.

Wherever you choose to spend your vacation, it is our wish that it is one of happiness, peace and enjoyment, where you are able to truly relax — whilst holding strong to your yiddishkeit.

Let Hamodia — and Hershel — show you the way!

Happy holidaying!

The Editors Disclaimer: HAMODIA takes no responsibility for the kashrus of hotels or other holiday accommodation.

Readers are advised to confirm for themselves, with individual advertisers, that other arrangements are at their required standard, prior to making a booking. h amod ia tr av e l s u p p l e m e n t

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staying at home

sMILING fACES FLYING with FAITH tHE PERFECT VACATION fREE FAMILY FUN

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CHAVERIM YOUTH CAMP

By C. S. Teitelbaum

Y

ou’d be forgiven for thinking that you’ve entered an actual yeshivah when visiting Chaverim Youth Camp. Not because of the hundred or so bachurim milling about, nor because of the many sefarim that lie open on the tables — but because of the enthusiasm and energy infusing the area of the beis medrash with the sounds of learning which reverberate within the hallowed walls of the temporary venue.

Chaverim has been operating as a recreational agenda for boys and bachurim for the last twenty-one years — its programme having been expanded eleven years ago

The camp has been held in various idyllic spots up and down the country, with an exhilarating leisure programme that has included a two-day cross-country hike, water sports, concerts, competitions, and more. This thrilling agenda gives the boys arefreshing breather from their intense learning schedules all year, so that they come back invigorated, ready to embrace it all over again.

Another impressive aspect of the camp is the completion of a chosen masechta each year, wrapped up with a

Chaverim has been operating as a recreational agenda for boys and bachurim for the last twenty-one years — its programme having been expanded eleven years ago to include the residential camp, in order to fill a need for U.K. boys looking for a fun sleep-away experience with a yeshivish touch to include the residential camp in order to fill a need for U.K. boys looking for a fun sleep-away experience with a yeshivish touch.

Indeed, the yeshivish feel comes from renowned personalities who are employed in chinuch yearround — Rabbi Shlomo Angel of Manchester and Rabbi Ezriel Yaffe, Rosh Yeshivas Tiferes Yaakov of Gateshead, who both join Chaverim, imparting their expertise, warmth and wisdom to the boys every day in their unique shiurim and mussar shmuessen.

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grand siyum. But the onset of Shabbos in camp is probably the most memorable experience of the summer. The heartwarming singing and emotion that permeates the Shabbos schedule is simply incredible; Lecha Dodi sees the whole crowd breaking into dancing around the shul, the melodious notes rising into the country air on the vast, silent grounds outside, creating a cloud of protection, a Shabbosdik sanctity for the camp, a memory which lingers on.

Give your son the gift of a summer at Chaverim camp and know that you’re giving him the treasure of a solid camping experience!

SMILING FACES OF TOMORROW’S HOPE

Somehow, each generation finds it; they schlep it down and blow off the dust. It’s an old,

By Rabbi Y. Reuven Rubin

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well-worn suitcase, the kind with those shiny locks that snap open with a sturdy “Clunk!” It holds a cornucopia of memories by way of hundreds of pictures, and every new generation is drawn as if by gravity by its emotional pull. There are myriads of these snapshots, taken over more than a half-century, and in each one, faces are smiling out from somewhere in the past.

Most of these pictures are just thrown together, mixing the generations and occasions into one gold mine of nostalgia; others have been put together in books with titles such as “Our Trip to Israel 1985”. No matter — whatever their place in that stuffed suitcase, each picture evokes magic moments of time spent together. Hardly any are posed — it’s all so natural, just unguarded moments when life is truly real.

In a world where so much is contrived and rehearsed, these snapshots of life actually lived are reminders of love shared. These pictures represent a reality that goes beyond the facade that many of us walk through in life — the one created by others’ notions.

Every neshamah is pure and individual. There has never been one like it before, nor will there be one like it ever again. This “stage” we call life makes it hard to be true to that uniqueness, and it takes great love to nurture it. Parents are given this responsibility and we will all be held to account for our actions in this regard. Time and again, I find myself begging parents to go out with their kids for some unstructured, unscripted time together.

I am amazed at what my children and their children remember of such shared forays. When they see a picture of that old car, or the front of their first holiday home, out rush warm memories that speak to who they really are.

A great deal is asked of today’s young, and many get so lost in others’ expectations that they have no real inkling of who they actually are. They fall into the cultural magnetic field that forces them to conform to extraneous standards, and lose track of the inner nugget of their uniqueness. Such a child can build a certain resentment in his heart. He feels deprived, without understanding why; he feels hurt when asked to conform in ways that run against his true tikun.

The whole year, most of our kids are in large classrooms, being given

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an education that was created to standards not necessarily geared to their particular needs. I often hear the lament from younger marrieds that they “went through the system” and are happy that it didn’t destroy them altogether.

How, then, can we give our children the tools to find success in such circumstances? One powerful way is to nurture who they truly are in an individual setting. Nowhere is this more possible than shared time on holiday, when kids can just be with parents without the stress of having to perform to others’ preconceptions. Large schools often can’t do this, yet we ask them to do our work and blame them if they fail. Only a parent has entree to the facets of their child’s gifts, and only a parent can fully cherish their uniqueness.

Going on a trip, or just staying home with time to be together, is a wondrous opportunity to build on those particular needs of a child that can’t be served in school.

With you, he or she can shine in ways they otherwise can’t, and can be loved as they need. This treasured time is not measured in minutes and hours, but rather in quality of focus.

Holidays are the potential pictures that will form their true awareness. The bond will be created with those “snapshots.” It will be the small things — the fresh aromas, the new sights shared — that will form the tapestry of future self-awareness.

In the busy world of schooling, the child must solve problems while facing many different stresses to his individualism. With Mom or Tatty, though, they can find someone who kvells over those unique gifts that just may not find their way into the school curriculum. It is those gifts that make the individual unique, and when shared with an understanding parent, create the ambince for future success.

By the way, the sharing of time with children has another bonus that is part of Hashem’s plan for our own growth. When we learn to connect with our child, we are also learning much about ourselves. Parenting is a Divine gift that teaches us to think beyond self and to fine-tune our inner

sensitivities.

I would plead that every parent just think into the matters these brief words have raised. We are all rushed and hassled in so many ways, and although we want to give our children everything — and then some — things just seem to get in the way. Take your holiday moments and make them building blocks of future strength. Our children are holy and carry neshamahs that are pure.

Spend time with them, lift up their sparks of uniqueness, so they learn to trust who they are. Foster an atmosphere where the suitcase of their memories will always bring reminders of wonderful shared growth. H

Take your holiday moments and make them building blocks of future strength

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hotel direct editorial

Going on Holidays with Hotels Direct Sometimes we come across customer services that are too good to forget. Mostly we shop in anonymous shopping centres, speak to anonymous telesales staff and browse in mega-establishments. So when you find someone helpful, with answers at their fingertips, you really do cherish that number!

Every year I find myself bombarded by adverts for different Kosher holiday destinations, each offering me my dream holiday. Surely, each one cannot possibly cater to my dream along with everyone else’s? So how do I know which is the best for my personal tastes?

One year, I decided to call the one-stop-shop to see whether they could actually help me navigate through my options. Zehavah at Hotels Direct assured me that she works with reputable companies only. After listening to my holiday criteria, wishes and concerns, she sent me brochures and rates for the most practical options

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available to me. Yay, my own personal shopper and adviser, all in one!

But it’s more than that: she suggested airlines and day trips, advised on possible holiday pitfalls and how to avoid them, took care of my hotel reservation and particular requests. It was easy, she was friendly, and my family had a wonderful vacation.

Nowadays, I call Zehavah directly. Sometimes I know where I want to go, sometimes I am curious about a new place I’ve seen advertised. Always, I listen to her!

The best part of it is that she offers this service free of charge and her holiday prices are always competitive.

What can I say? That is one number I will not lose.

Zehavah is available on 020-8203-4482 or info@kosherhotels.co.uk

Blissful

holiday shopping

so much variety under one roof

wow

7 Russell Parade, Golders Green Road, NW11 9NN

www.kosherkingdom.co.uk

Flying with Faith Hamodia: How did you begin flying? Have you been doing it for a long time?

Daniel Freedman: I’ve been flying for about 20 years. My father was an accountant, working at the Elstree aerodrome, and he used to take me with him to work sometimes, so I grew up with planes.

I’ve always been fascinated by them and I have a passion for flying.

H: Tell us about the planes you fly.

DF: I don’t own my own plane, as it’s very expensive both to purchase and maintain a plane, even a small one, so I hire planes from a club. I generally fly a dual-control plane, which means that a passenger can fly the plane for a short time,

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man d e e r ht el F Dani ensed lig ing y ic is a l ft pilot, fl es n a aircr eater pla ghts. i s four- rt haul fl o e on sh dia spok ut o o Ham , to find ing a e m to hi it’s like b . what she pilot i heim

than that.

The maximum height I can fly up to, called the ceiling, is 2500 feet above sea level. Over London, I cruise at about 2300 feet, but over the English Channel, for example, I can fly higher up, at about 5500 feet. The maximum height for a small plane is about 10,000 feet, as these planes are not pressurized like a larger plane.

whilst I still maintain overall control and ensure the plane’s safety. The planes I fly have a maximum range of about 500 nautical miles (the way distance is generally measured in the air, as well as at sea). This means that I can fly to places like Antwerp, Holland, and the south of France. But to be quite honest, the planes are not really comfortable enough to travel much further

H: What’s it like flying so high in a small plane?

DF: It’s an incredible feeling to look down on a blanket of cloud, spreading as far as you can see in all directions. At high altitude, above the clouds, there’s no turbulence, and flying is a very calm and tranquil experience. The views, when there isn’t any cloud, are also amazing. My favourite is flying over the Channel, continued on page 16 STAYING AT HOME

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My main pleasure now from this kind of thing is watching other people’s enjoyment and wonder

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 16

which is just a mass of blue water. But, I have to admit, that although there is a great thrill to seeing these sights, and it certainly has enhanced my appreciation of nifla’os haBorei, having seen them so many times, I’m a bit jaded.

My main pleasure now from this kind of thing is watching other people’s enjoyment and wonder at the experience. Recently I took up a party of school pupils and teachers, as a prize from a school project. I let one of the students take control of the plane, and he had the most fantastic time — it was an unforgettable experience, both for him and for me.

H: What kind of skills or qualities does a pilot need?

DF: A pilot needs a lot of common sense and self-

discipline. Pilots have a special term which we use for this – “airmanship”. This is a combination of good practical knowledge of how to fly; how to operate a plane, both in the air and on the ground; and the common sense and good judgment which enables a pilot to fly safely and efficiently. Flying is a lot of fun, but it’s also potentially very dangerous, both for the pilot and for other people. It’s important not to take any unnecessary risks.

H: Can you tell us an interesting story that happened to you while flying?

DF: I once flew a mohel from Elstree to Antwerp, to perform a bris milah. He had a briefcase with him, in which he kept his equipment, including a milah knife.

The security personnel at the airport looked rather

‫ב"ה‬

Pizza Uri Pizza Uri was founded 32 years ago by brothers Yaakov and Eliezer Uri. Reb Yaakov made contact with a pizza factory in Milan, via a friend in Italy.

He visited Milan, staying for three weeks, in order

the British summer brings ...

to learn the special features of Italian pizza. On his return to Eretz Yisrael, he put into practice what he had learned, creating pizza with milk, instead of water and from this came the famous Pizza Uri.

we’ve got you covered!

The Pizza Uri branch in Stamford Hill was established three years ago. As well as serving pizza, the store also provides a wide range of other dishes, all made to the same high standards and provided with the same special service

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0208 958 3444

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suspiciously at this Orthodox Jew, and I thought we were going to have problems getting through.

However, when they ran the briefcase through the X-ray scanner, the knife did not show up on the picture! Much to his disappointment, the security guard had to let us pass, unhindered.

H: Thanks very much for talking to us – we appreciate it, and wish you many more hours of safe and happy flying! H

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Courchevel in the French Alps, Nature at its Peak Tease your senses with the delightful sights, scents and sounds of picturesque Courchevel, an enchanting village nestled 1850 metres high in the mountainous French Alps region.

The renovated Hotel New Solarium, managed by Mr. Yossi Wreschner and Mr. Moishi Engel of Israel, boasts a mix of décor which integrates modern touches into traditional chalet grace, offering guests a homey, alpine-style ambience in a setting that is classy and impeccably maintained.

Located in the central hotel area, the New Solarium has a heated swimming pool, sauna and Turkish bath, so that this holiday proves as luxurious as it is calming.

The hotel is a stone’s throw from an exciting array of activities, so guests can be sure to enjoy stimulating fun and sports throughout their stay, from cycling, horseback riding, paragliding, mini golf, fishing, ice skating — and, of course, the classic hiking trails that crisscross through

breathtaking scenes and provide magnificent views of nature at its peak.

What’s more, a free and frequent bus service ensures that your feet need never be tired.

If you’re not the adventurous kind, and fancy staying close to the luxury of your comfy hotel, enjoy a slowpaced stroll around the nearby lake, and return for a hot cuppa as you soon as you feel like it.

The managerial team bring with them years of experience in the business so that guests are guaranteed a smooth-running stay… that only gets better every year.

For guests who prefer to have their day planned out for them, you can join one of the much-anticipated sightseeing trips, some of which are attractions that people come from all over the world to visit.

Treat yourself to a vacation at Hotel New Solarium. If everyone’s doing it, it’s gotta be the right thing!

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The “Perfect” V O

h, no!” they yell. “Ima, put the notebook away. You can’t write now. We’re on vacation!”

I raise my empty hands. “Okay,” I capitulate.

It’s funny how they see any writing I do as “work.”

The thing is, I can’t help it. For me, not writing is like not thinking, and it’s kind of hard to do that.

It’s the summer of 2009, and as we wend our way up north on our getaway to a kibbutz in the Galil, I try in vain not to listen to what’s happening in the inner sanctum of our minivan or notice too much through the window lest I’ll have to write it all down as soon as we reach our destination.

So, here we are, in this lovely, peaceful kibbutz overlooking the Kinneret. Well, it was peaceful until we arrived. Now that they’re out of the car, the kids have stopped bickering … temporarily. I offer them a deal: no fighting, no writing. We shake on it, me with a wicked glint in my eye because I know they’ll never last more than five minutes and then I can run like a hare back to my pen. Sure enough, the two younger ones are soon embroiled in some squabble over which bed they’re sleeping in and I’m off scribbling in the corner.

My poor, exhausted husband is found an hour later, still in the car, his head slumped on the steering wheel, fast asleep.

All things considered, we’ve made it up here reasonably uneventfully, with only four bathroom stops. We didn’t get lost, even though my fifteenyear-old daughter was navigating with the map upside down. The standard jokes flew back and forth, together with lighthearted laughter that lifted our spirits. Yes, the moment we leave the house, we are on vacation. And I, in my idealism, want it to be perfect!

Once we’ve enjoyed a hearty lunch, we sit down *Not their real name.

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to make plans. Will we all agree on something? Of course, it’s hard to accommodate older and younger children at the same time — but finally, the vote is cast! We decide on horseback riding, kayaking, swimming in the Kinneret, banana boating, bike riding and mini-tractors. Oh, and a long hike around the lake, if we have time. Phew, just thinking about it makes me feel like I need a vacation.

“How about,” I suggest to my husband, “we just drop the kids off at the bus stop down the road and in the meantime we take a nap?”

My sense of humor is not appreciated.

Naturally, as their mother, who exemplifies the utmost in responsibility (as I just demonstrated), I feel obligated to remind my offspring that if they intend to complete this action-packed schedule, they’ll have to show their sweet little faces before noon. Hmm, let’s see how they pull that one off.

We’ve rented two small bungalows at the kibbutz guesthouse: one for my husband and me, and another for the rest of the clan. While I believe in bonding and family togetherness, the first thing I do is tape a big KEEP OUT sign on our door. Our kids claim they don’t read English and barge in anyway. So much for privacy!

We set out eagerly the next day for the horses … possibly the first mistake. Even though I was once quite an equestrienne, this adventure leaves me bowlegged, stiff and unsure whether I’ll stand up straight for the rest of the week. But it was well worth it, because that ride in the Galil, with the magnificent, shimmering Kinneret down below, was pure heaven.

And so the day continues, with one strenuous activity after the other. Toward evening, happily exhausted, we head back to the kibbutz.

The following morning the gang is raring to go. I groan inwardly at the thought of another physically

” Vacation grueling day. As we leave the kibbutz I cast a wistful glance at the empty bungalow next door. How I wish a family full of kids would move in so that maybe ours would leave us alone. I feel a twinge of guilt that less than forty-eight hours into our vacation, I’m already yearning for peace and quiet!

What kind of mother am I? By mid-afternoon I’m done, unable to take another single step. According to the kids, who take great delight in telling me, I was already snoring in the car on the way back. I growl at them, blearyeyed, and stagger toward our bungalow.

Suddenly, I hear shrieks and whoops. I stare in disbelief. The neighbors I wished for have arrived!

It’s the Freedman* family … and one of their daughters is my daughter’s best friend!

Incredible! Well, that’s the last we see of our brood for a while. The Freedman children and ours are a match made in heaven. What’s more, Mommy and Daddy Freedman seem perfectly content to schlep my crew along with theirs. Yay … freedom at last!

“So what would you like to do?” my husband asks on our first quiet morning.

“Sleep,” I hiss, pulling the pillow over my head.

Well, guess what? There’s only so much sleeping even I can do, so, we decide to plan how we’ll use our newly free time. The problem is we’ve pretty much covered everything with the children already and I don’t want to venture too far because, after all, we are still parents. One never knows when the little ones will come bounding back, ravenously hungry, expecting food for their empty tummies.

By Batya Ruddell

“Let’s just stay here and relax,” I suggest. “You can read and I can write.”

We swing gently in the hammocks, hubby engrossed in his book and me with one ear cocked for sounds that the rest of my family has returned.

When they finally do, they dash inside one after the other, grabbing cookies, crackers, popsicles and more nourishing goodies, and head out again.

“Hi, kids,” I call out. “It’s barbecue for supper.”

But they’ve gone back to the Freedmans and a

So what would you like to do?” my husband asks on our first quiet morning.

“Sleep,” I hiss, pulling the pillow over my head.

continued on page 22

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The “Perfect” Vacation This holiday is a temporary reprieve, a brief, necessary escape before facing some difficult decisions ahead, medical tests and nervous waiting for answers. A cloud of sadness hovers over me and mingles with the crickets and fireflies that accompany my thoughts card game called Speed or Spit or something like that.

I sigh.

My husband gets the flame going anyway. He discovers a huge cluster of old volcanic rocks by the edge of the orchards surrounding our bungalows. I join him on a large, flat boulder and we sit in silence,

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gazing at the vast expanse of land ahead of us. I feel as if we’re the only two people in the world. How often, with our hectic schedules, do we catch moments like this? It’s perfect … and yet, it isn’t. My mood switches and a tinge of melancholy passes over the merry moments we’ve had until now.

“I miss the children,” I say, surprised at the sound of my voice.

“They’re having fun,” my husband says.

“I guess so.” I shrug. I’m surprised that I’m missing them so much when they’ve been gone barely a day, leaving behind the quiet I’d been craving. It’s like all of a sudden I don’t feel needed anymore, as if I’ve been abandoned on the roadside, an unnecessary burden.

Ach, we mothers can be impossible, never satisfied, as our emotions bounce all over like ping-pong balls.

But it’s more than that. With the knowledge of what

b

looms ahead, I so much wanted this vacation to be perfect.

Far away in this distant place, isolated from everything I know, the closed cell phones and e-mail messages, I start to cry. This holiday is a temporary reprieve, a brief, necessary escape before facing some difficult decisions ahead, medical tests and nervous waiting for answers. A cloud of sadness hovers over me and mingles with the crickets and fireflies that accompany my thoughts.

Could this be the quiet before the storm? I want to stay here forever, sitting on this rock in the middle of nowhere, a warm wind caressing my face.

My children trickle back in dribs and drabs to check if the hot dogs are ready. Suddenly, my supersonic eight-year-old son bursts into the garden, his shrieks shaking leaves off the trees as he blasts his

way into our private space. Irritated as I am, I scoop him up into my arms and hold him close. It’s fine, I think to myself. Things don’t have to be perfect.

I think about the perfect holiday I’d envisioned, and wonder what perfect really means. Perfection doesn’t have to be only one tone. It can be the blending of many shades that produce a picture. I can be content and irritated, happy and sad, stretching to accommodate conflicting emotions at the same time. And that is how it needs to be. There will be fights, disagreements, laughter and joy, fear and contentment, and everything comes together to make it complete.

My husband slips away to supervise the barbecue.

My younger daughter climbs up beside me, taking her place on the rock. And we sit, each with an arm around the other’s waist, watching the stars twinkling in the sky. H

BKosher

RT SMop A at sh

h er B KosEnjoy your Summer

Holiday Shopping Experience with BKosher 91 BELL LANE, LONDON, NW4 2AS TEL: 020 8202 1711

144 BRENT STREET, HENDON, LONDON, NW4 2DR TEL:020 3210 4000

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2011- 2012

2012- 2013

2-3 BROADFIELDS PARADE, GLENGALL ROAD, EDGWARE HA8 8TD TEL: 020 8958 2200

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MY ONE KOSHER HOTEL ITALIAN DOLOMITES

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Contact : Tel: **39 338 1709221 **39 0462 602460 mykosherhotel@gmail.com info@mykosherhotel.it www.mykosherhotel.it Glatt Kosher– Cholov Israel– Under the strict supervision of Rav Rabinowitz Shlita

Free Family Fun

Manchester

9 Great Ways To Keep Your Family Busy in the City this Summer

1. Wythenshawe Park Horticultural Centre: Address: Wythenshawe Road, Manchester, M23 0AB Tel: 0161 234 5000 Opening times: From dawn to dusk

4. Bolton Steam Museum: Address: Mornington Road, Bolton, BL1 4EU Tel: 01257 265003 Opening times: 10am -4pm

2.Museum of Transport: Address: Boyle S,t Cheetham, Manchester, Greater Manchester M8 8UW Tel: 0161 205 2122 Opening times: Wednesday and Sundays and every day in August from 10am to 4.30pm

5. Abbotsfield Park Miniature Railway: Address: Chassen Road, Urmston Greater Manchester, M41 9EY Tel : 0161 912 2000 Opening times: Every Sunday from 10-4pm

3. Vernon Park Museum: Address: Turncroft Lane, Offerton, Stockport. SK1 4AR Tel: 0161 474 4460 Opening times: Mon-Fri 10am-4pm, Sun 11am-5pm

6. Lyme Park: Address: Lyme Handley, Cheshire, East Stockport, SK12 2NX Tel: 01663 762 023 Opening times: 8 am-8.30pm

STAYING AT HOME

7.Blacon Adventure Playground and City Farm: Address: Kipling Road, Chester Cheshire, CH15UU Tel: 01244371129 Opening times: 10am -8pm 8. Animal world and Butterfly house: Address:Moss Bank Park, Moss Bank Way, Bolton BL1 6NQ Tel: 01204 334050 Opening times: 10.00am-4.30pm 9. Stamford Park: Address: Stamford Street, Stalybridge, Greater Manchester SK15 1QY Tel: 0161 342 8355 Opening times: 8am till dusk

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LONDON

1. Museum of London Docklands: Address:Warehouse West India Quay, London E14 4AL, United Kingdom Tel:+44 20 7001 9844 Opening times:10am – 6pm 2. V & A Childhood Museum: Address: Cambridge Heath Rd, London E2 9PA Tel:+44 20 8983 5200 Opening times: 10am -5:45pm 3. Geffrye Museum: Address: 136 Kingsland Road London E2 8EA Tel:+44 20 7739 9893 Opening Times: Sunday, Monday 12pm -5:00pm Tuesday -Friday 10am -5:00pm 4. Freightliners Farm: Address: Sheringham Rd London N7 8PF, United Kingdom Tel:+44 20 7609 0467 Opening times: 10am to 4.45pm, Closed on mondays

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E X PLO R E • MAY 2013

STAYING AT HOME

5.Mudchute Park and Farm: Address: Pier St, London E14 3HP Tel:+44 20 7515 5901 Opening times: 8am-4:00pm 6. Brooks Farm: Address: Skeltons Lane Park Waltham Forest,Greater London, E10 5BS Tel: 020 8539 4278 Opening Times: 10:30-5:00pm closed on mondays 7. St James Park: Address: London SW1A 2BJ Tel: +44 20 7451 9999 Opening times: 9am - 10pm 8. Belair Park: Address: Dulwich, London SE21 7AB Tel:020 7525 2000 Opening Times: 7:v30-9:00pm 9. Brent Lodge Park: Address: Church Road, Hanwell, W7 3BP Tel: (020) 8840 4244 Opening times: 1030-6:00pm

Gateshead

1. Discovery Museum Address: Blandford Square, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 4JA Tel: (0191) 232 6789.

Opening hours: Monday to Friday: 10am 4pm Sunday: 2pm - 5pm

4. Bill Quay Community Farm Address: Hainingwood, TerraceBill , QuayGateshead,NE10 0UE Tel: 0191 433 5780 Opening Hours: Open every day. The buildings are open from 12pm to 5 pm daily

2. Sunderland Museum & Winter Garden Address: Burdon Road,Sunderland, SR1 1PP Tel: (0191) 553 2323 Opening hours: Monday - Friday 10am 5pm, Sunday 2pm - 5pm

5. National Glass Centre Address: National Glass Centre, Liberty Way, Sunderland, SR6 0GL Tel: 0191 515 5555 Opening Hours: Call for Details

3. Stephenson Railway Museum Address: Middle Engine Lane,North Shields,Tyne & Wear, NE29 8DX Tel: 0191 200 7146 Opening Hours: 11am - 4pm.

6. Herrington Country Park: Address: Houghton le Spring, Tyne and Wear Tel: 0191 5348526 Opening Times: Dawn – Dusk

7. Ouseburn Farm Address: Ouseburn Rd, Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear, NE1 2PA Tel: 0191 232 3698 Opening times: Monday – Friday 10:30-3:30pm 8. Chopwell woods Address: Newcastle Upon Tyne, Tyne And Wear NE12 9SS, UK Tel: 01207 542495 Opening Hours: Open every day.

9. Long Sands Beach Address: Tynemouth tyne andwear NE30 4JS Tel: 01912008535 Opening Hours: all day

STAYING AT HOME

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national

like a shepherd to his flock HERE and THERE hOLIDAY or HEADACHE RAIN of BLESSING kASHERING made CLEAR

national

Sea, Sun…and Kosher in the Normandie Hotel The Normandie Hotel is a household name. In fact, not only does it conjure delightful childhood recollections to many — these families are now able to recreate the same cherished memories for their own children.

With twenty-two years of serving the community, the Normandie hotel has been offering visitors a rewarding break in a pleasant, heimish atmosphere, whether a midweek break, weekend retreat or vacation.

The hotel boasts the exceptional convenience of being a trainride away from London and Manchester, affording families the ease and enjoyment of a getaway, even at the last minute. Similarly, its location right across from the sea is a huge bonus, with fresh, vigorous air sweeping over the hotel garden. For those who prefer to relax in solitude, make yourself comfortable on the shaded, well-manicured lawn, or catch the sunshine from your hotel balcony and enjoy the views and pure air just the same.

The hotel caters wonderfully to the community, bearing in mind that there are holidaymakers in private accommodation who will nevertheless need the kosher amenities which they provide. Therefore, they host minyanim throughout the year, shiurim and lectures in busy seasons, as well as a fully-stocked beis midrash so that, even on vacation, learning schedules can be maintained. During vacation season, the hotel also opens their very-popular Deli, which offers sumptuous food and takeout — hot, cold and everything in between — so if you choose to take it easy one night, know that with Deli food you won’t be compromising a bit.

What’s unique about the hotel is that parents can always feel comfortable about their children roaming the hotel premises without their supervision, especially on those rainy-days-in because, in this warm, heimish setting, with age-appropriate entertainment and kids clubs, they’re being kept busy the way you’d like them to. And when the sun shines, you needn’t go further than the garden; the heated swimming pool is an all-time favourite for kids and adults alike.

The Normandie Hotel; a family thing all the way.

By C. S. Teitelbaum

LIKE A SHEPHERD

TO HIS FLOCK Famous Family Holidays (FFH) is privileged to host Dayan and Rebbetzin Dunner on their campus for the duration of their two week summer family camp. Being the only local family holiday with the official presence of an esteemed Torah authority on site makes FFH a popular destination for holidaymakers across the spectrum.

Following an exclusive interview with Rebbetzin Dunner, Hamodia presents its readers with a glimpse behind the scenes of what may appear to be a laid-back, foreseeable two weeks but is actually an intense, full-time operation.

How many years have the Rov and Rebbetzin been attending the family camp?

We’ve been going to family camps from when we were newly married. First, for many years, it was to the Aguda Intermediate camp, which was for older bachurim. Then we joined this family camp, which was originally owned

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by Family Weissler and is now owned by Family Cope. It’s been based in Leicester for the last six years.

Apparently, there is already a family connection, with your father-in-law, HaRav Yosef Tzvi Dunner, zt”l, (Ra’avad of UOHC) and Leicester. Can you enlighten us?

My father-in-law moved to Leicester in 1941 to take up a position as assistant Rabbi. It turned out that he was very dissatisfied with the standard of Yiddishkeit there and thus started his own minyan. He lived there until 1947, after which he left to London and founded the Beis Yaakov seminary, commuting every day for the while that his family still remained in Leicester. Then, additionally, he became Rav of Adass Yisroel in Queen Elizabeth Walk.

Do the townsfolk remember your parentsin-law?

In the summer, the local Jewish commu-

nity shop at the camp tuck shop. They marvel at all the kosher food and reminisce about oldtime Leicester as they drop the change to the cashier; whether or not they knew my father-in-law, the name ‘Dunner’ rings loudly with all of them.

Few of the original townspeople are

middle and flying at either side of him!

It must bring back pleasant childhood memories.

Last year we actually had a very moving experience. We all took a trip to the area where my parents-in-law, and Uncle Heinz and Auntie Hannah had lived. It was a real

Few of the original townspeople are still living, or living there, but those who do, have fond memories to share of my charismatic father in law perched upon his motorbike still living, or living there, but those who are have fond memories to share of my charismatic father in law perched upon his motorbike, vrooming the bumpy ride to London, his long beard split down the

trip down memory lane. My uncle and his kallah got married in 1943 in the humble house of my father-in-law — his only brother — with only sixteen guests at the seudah, most of them his own nephews. For the continued on page 34

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Many of these programmes are very special, including an ‘Ask the Rov’ programme, where many issues are raised: the time allocated is never enough first time since, the couple revisited their ‘wedding venue’; actually, the corner family house has since been demolished but the rest of the street still exists.

It was emotional watching Uncle Heinz wander about the neighbourhood and take in the old sites with such excitement. He remembered everything — his school, the stores, even the postman’s name! What was really inspiring was thinking back to how humbly they began

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their married lives in contrast to the glory of their position now at the helm of a whole dor of Yiddishe kinder, children, grandchildren, ka’’h, until 120!

When do the Rov’s duties for the camp begin and what do they involve?

In truth, the main part begins when looking for a camp site; it is very difficult to find a university campus which is appropriate to the needs of chareidi holidaymakers. One of the first considerations is to ascertain that the campus can be enclosed by an eiruv.

This enables the members to walk freely everywhere, carrying and using strollers on Shabbos. The task of erecting the eiruv is complicated and can be very timeconsuming.

A further regular problem nowadays is the system of sensors which turn lights on when a person approaches. The university management has to be prepared to supply electricians to disconnect the hundreds of sensors and then reconnect them again after Shabbos.

Also, the bedrooms have to be suitable for heimishe

families. And finally, we must remember that the general society never sees families such as the frum olam with many children and babies, baruch Hashem.

How else do the Rov and Rebbetzin contribute to the camp on a daily basis?

The presence of a Rov and Rebbetzin can be likened to a family having their parents with them. The Rov becomes the central figure of the large number of holidaymakers and adds quality and dignity to the atmosphere.

The day commences with an early minyan which attracts most of the menfolk. After davening the Rov gives a shiur. Even those who opt for a later start to the day will come to the shiur and then daven afterwards.

Following is a well-attended Daf Yomi shiur conducted by the Rov. As far as the ladies and girls are concerned, there is a wide variety of activities, mainly in the evening.

Many of these programmes are very special, including an ‘Ask the Rov’ programme, where many issues are

raised; the time allocated is never enough.

Besides the formal programme of pre-arranged activities, there is a great demand for private time with the Rov, with many using the opportunity of the timeoff to talk over matters, particularly those which they have been meaning to discuss with a Rov all year but continued on page 37

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SOUPS

MENU

chicken soup + lockshen & kneidlach . . £4.50 grated vegtable soup + kneidlach . . . . £4.50

PACKED PER LITRE APROX 3 PORTIONS mushroom soup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £4.50 pumpkin soup . . . . . . . . . . . . . £4.50 minestrone soup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £4.50 roast pepper & tomato soup . . . . . £4.50

shnitzel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £4.25 roast chicken . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £4.25 stuffed chicken . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £4.25

sweet & sour chicken . . . . . . . . . . . £4.25 grilled chiken breast . . . . . . . . . . . £4.25 grilled chicken leg . . . . . . . . . . . . . £4.25

sweet & sour red cabbage . . . . . . . . £1.50 ratatoullie . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £1.50 green beans in tomato sauce . . . . . . . £1.50

courgette in tomato sauce . . . . . . . . £1.50 mushroom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £1.50 pasta & cabbage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £1.50

gelte sh log (approx. 12 portions) . £12.00

chulent (approx. 4 portions) . . . . . . £12.00

EXPLORE • MAY 2013

MAIN DISHES

PER PORTIONS meat balls in tomato . . . . . . . . . . . . £3.50 meat balls in mushroom . . . . . . . . . . £3.50 goulash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £3.50

SIDE DISHES

PER PORTIONS farfel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £1.50 roast potato . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £1.50 mashed potato . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £1.50

rice & veg . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £1.50 yellow rice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £1.50

small kugel (approx. 3 portions) . . . . . £3.50 large kugel (approx. 6 portions) . . . . . £6.50

kishka . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £3.00

SHABBOS FOOD

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leek & potato soup . . . . . . . . . . £4.50

stuffed cabbage (each) . . . . . . . . . . £2.50 roast beef . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £5.00 braised steak . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £5.00

have never found the time. The Rov is basically ‘on duty’ nonstop.

So it seems like it’s ‘business as usual’. Or do the Rov and Rebbetzin get a chance to rest at all?

In contrast to our very busy daily routine during the rest of the year, there’s a dimension of calm in that the phone doesn’t ring; calls can’t come through because of poor reception in the buildings which necessitates going into the open air for every call on our mobile phones.

(Indeed, the buzz of activity — alternating between phone, door, phone, door — at this late evening hour is indicative of the endless communal callings within this household.)

The atmosphere is more peaceful and stress-free; my husband prepares each shiur just as he would any year-round shiur, but here he could do so in a tranquil setting, in the shade of the trees during the afternoon hours, when the camp is virtually empty.

We have been zoche to share many simchas during those two weeks; sheva brochos, bar mitzvahs, births, Shalom Zechor’s, and plenty of upsherins B”h.

Are you able to spend the day out of the grounds?

We have no great desire to go on major outings.

There is a lot of preparation involved for every shiur and for any evening presentation. We enjoy the relaxed pace of our duties. Also, we usually have children and grandchildren joining us for the holidays; it is my greatest pleasure to send them off on a good outing and to complete all the domestic duties of a family while they’re out. continued on page 38

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Last year, the Rav was the guest speaker at a Siyum HaShas abroad at the start of the camp.

How did the Rebbetzin manage the kashering and setting up of your flat single-handedly?

(The Rebbetzin is visibly entertained by my question, noting that I obviously don’t know about her lifestyle, which I learn is all about ‘single-handedness’ so that her husband can be completely devoted to his avodas Hakodesh. Behind every great man…The Rebbetzin is quick to add that it’s because she views this way of life as a privilege that it becomes a pleasure.

Also, they usually have einiklech joining them for the summer so they lend their bubbe a hand.)

Have you had any memorable experiences at the camp that you can share?

We have been zocheh to share many simchos during those two weeks: sheva brachos, bar mitzvahs, births, shalom zachars, and plenty of upsherins, bli ayin hara.

Last year, they were able to perform the mitzvah

of shiluach haken. It was an awesome sight. First, my husband gave an outdoor shmuess about the significance of the mitzvah, far from the birds’ nest so as not to disturb the mother bird prematurely. Then, in amazing, utter silence, the huge crowd of eager participants followed my husband, tiptoeing tentatively through the grounds to the particular tree. As he cautiously climbed the ladder, all eyes focused upwards and when the bird darted out of the tree, a loud gasp broke the silence.

I’m sure you have your share of less-exciting experiences, too. Could you share any?

Without question, here’s my worst experience, but it all ended well, baruch Hashem. Some years ago, I went with a family to watch milking at the local farm. We’re not very experienced in the ‘field’ and by mistake we left the gate to the milk shed open.

Suddenly, before our eyes, there was a stampede of dozens of cows rushing out this gateway to freedom as though they had been waiting for this moment all

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The camp is a Kiddush Hashem!

The townspeople are fascinated by the warmth and closeness of the family unit their lives! The herd stormed onto the A55 thoroughfare into the speeding traffic, not believing their fortune!

We just stared helplessly at the bedlam before us, hands over our mouths, while the farmer bellowed at the top of his lungs to alert his sheepdogs. Miraculously, every cow made it back safely, without any traffic accidents or cattle loss. We were very, very lucky!

Last year we had quite an unpleasant incident. A boy who was participating in Oneg Shabbos group, holding his little brother’s hand throughout, was badly stung by a bee. While Hatzolah attended to his injury, the younger sibling wandered off. The child was found rambling along outside the campus and it became quite a to-do, with the police coming back and forth to confirm that it was not a case of neglect, which it wasn’t — under ordi-

nary circumstances the boy would have been perfectly capable of watching the toddler.

What minor hiccups might you typically encounter during the summer?

Erev Shabbos is usually quite eventful. There’s always a problem with the hot water; it simply runs dry from the many baths and showers being taken. Sometimes the fire alarms go off from all the stoves working simultaneously at full-blast.

I’m wondering why a university would want to accommodate our community when it involves extra ‘headaches’, like the eiruv, the sensors, lots of noise, and perhaps accidental campus damage from kids and so on. Is it worthwhile for them?

Indeed, that’s why it’s very hard to find accommodation. But we are still a pleasure compared to other groups. We are so peace-loving and pleasant; there’s no breakout of fights, no drunkenness. One year, in fact, my son went a few days early to prepare the mikvah. The manager warned him that there were still some foreign students on site so he shouldn’t leave anything around because it would certainly disappear! continued on page 40 n at i o n a l

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This year we have to move, because of new restrictions in resident numbers which we greatly exceed, and we were trying unsuccessfully to get accepted by Loughborough University, some twenty miles away.

The manager of the Leicester campus offered to put in a good word. In front of us, he called them up and said, “I’ve had this group for six years. I’ve never had a stabbing; I’ve never had a police incident; you take them.”

On that recommendation, the university offered us their campus!

So, clearly, we must be worthwhile.

How has the camp managed to create a kiddush Hashem among the general local townsfolk?

The camp is a kiddush Hashem! The townspeople are fascinated by the warmth and closeness of the family unit; they’ve often commented about it on observing fathers enjoying quality time, walking hand-in-hand with a child and schmoozing together.

They are so intrigued by our lifestyle that some of them roam around the campus on Shabbos night, observing the gentle laughter and listening in on the chatter and beautiful zemiros emanating from the windows.

What would you say is the highlight of your stay?

I would say Shabbos.

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There’s an outdoor amphitheatre, with tiered seating, where the whole camp gathers after the seudah for a farbrengen on Friday night. It’s beautiful. Everyone blends wonderfully, men and children in their white shirts and Shabbos attire singing together under the stars, creating a splendid sight.

We also have seudos for the Satmar yahrtzeit, Belzer yahrtzeit, and the Steipler yahrtzeit — and everyone participates, unlike during the year when these are usually limited to attendance of those in the chassidic circle. The achdus is beautiful to observe.

Even the Shabbos morning minyan accommodates those used to starting shacharis later; a break of learning before Krias HaTorah ensures that the second minyan can catch up and join the first.

What do you think about holidaymakers who choose to go it alone, without the amenities of a kehillah?

Holidays are a very special time for the family and you’d be surprised how enormously it features in childhood memories.

If one is in public service all year it is understandable that such a person might choose to get away from it all.

Whichever way one chooses, in an isolated cottage, or among families in a camp, the precious time spent together will leave a lasting impression on your children. H

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We all know that holidays are good for us. Psychologists (and travel agents!) have known for years that holidays are an invaluable ingredient for our psychological, physical and spiritual wellbeing. Whatever form

1

Digital Detox

they take, be it a five-star luxury hotel or a simple house swap, holidays are a chance to unwind, get a fresh view on life, and enjoy quality time with family and friends.

Taking the opportunity to ‘recharge the batteries’ lowers stress levels, which in turn keeps many of the vital organs, including the heart and brain, healthier and functioning properly. Holidays offer the prospect of temporarily leaving our everyday life behind and examining our lives from a new place and having a break from Psychotherapist Yaakov Barr a new perspective. our work, gadgets and shares his top five tips for making However, leaving anxiety emails becomes more and your holiday a relaxing one. behind once we’re on holiday is more of a challenge. Ideally, not always that easy. the holiday that we should all In a recent survey, 50% of Britons strive for is one that is digital-free. said they were more exhausted after What is the point of leaving town going on holiday than they were before and going somewhere that is supposed to be they went. Frequently, holidays end up relaxing if you’re constantly fielding emails and phone calls? It’s being more stressful than regular daydifficult to disconnect from many offices, but it can be absolutely to-day life. There are schedules to keep, necessary if you want to make sure that you are refreshed and children to be entertained, and a strange relaxed when you come back. bed to contend with. There may well For a holiday to be rejuvenating, it is vital to be completely be hold ups on the motorway, delays at present in the moment. The distraction caused by texting with the airport, lost luggage, and mixed up mobiles certainly does not help. Because of our ‘loyalty’ to our reservations. The plan to retreat, relax, gizmos, it is common initially to feel anxiety and stress when we recharge and reflect can all too quickly turn them off… but these feelings will not last long. become but a distant dream.

There are, however, many people who, despite their best intenBut these factors do not have to autotions, cannot totally disconnect, either because work requirematically impact on a holiday. In reality, ments do not allow it or because they have become too dependent how much we relax and enjoy our holion being connected to the world. If you are in this latter group, day is largely up to us. accept reality and plan for a partial disconnect. Allocate specific Here are my top five tips that can chunks of time when you are going to be online (preferably at the help you get into the holiday relaxation beginning of the day), and stay true to your resolve. mode, no matter what.

Holiday or headache?

Thanks to technology and our ever increasing attachment to it,

continued on page 44

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2

Flexibility

When we expect too much of ourselves, of others, and

of events, we are likely to wind up feeling stressed. Holidays are events out of the ordinary and we often expect something extraordinary of them. Many of us want to have the perfect holiday — with perfect weather and surrounded by perfect people. When events beyond our control do not turn out as we envisioned (for example, the glorious weather in the British Isles!), we can end up feeling frustrated and angry.

The solution is flexibility. If we become less rigid, then we open ourselves up to new possibilities and choices, where we welcome change and variation.

Some people are naturally more flexible in their thinking and in the way they behave. They seem to flow through changes quite easily and effortlessly, whereas others find it challenging indeed. But, just as through physical exercise we can develop flexibility and suppleness in our body, so we can also train our mind so that it becomes more flexible and less irrational.

How to do it?

a) Flexible Actions - Be prepared that events and situations might not go as anticipated. For some parents, that may mean being less rigid

about bedtimes. For others it may involve planning the daily activities loosely, allowing for changes and uncertainties which may possibly arise. b) Flexible Thinking — Try these five steps: 1) Pay attention to how you are feeling.

When you notice yourself getting upset, irritated or flustered, ask yourself, “What am I telling myself right now?” or “What thoughts are making me feel this way?” Most of us are not used to paying attention to the way we think, but that doesn’t change the fact that we are constantly affected by our thoughts.

2) Once you become more accustomed to being aware of your thoughts, you can start to identify which thoughts are unrealistic, unhelpful and inflexible.

3) You can then challenge any particular thought by asking yourself, “Are my thoughts or self-talk in this situation helpful and realistic, or not?”

4) Finally, after challenging your unhelpful thoughts and evaluating them more objectively, you can try to come up with an alternative, more flexible and realistic thought.

5) Now you are ready to practice thinking and acting according to your new, flexible way of thinking.

continued on page 46

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The Golden Tulip (land goed be Wipelsb

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4

Exercise

I apologise for this slightly unoriginal tip, but when

Breathing

The diaphragmatic breathing technique is such a simple way to reduce stress that I have to include it as one of

my top five holiday tips. It is easy to learn, can be practiced almost anywhere, and provides a quick way to calm the body down and to keep your stress levels in check.

Diaphragmatic breathing is the cornerstone of many other relaxation practices, too, and can be combined with other relaxing elements, such as music. All you really need is a few minutes.

1. Sit comfortably, with your back straight. Put one hand on your chest and the other on your stomach.

2. Breathe in slowly and gently, through your nose, so that your stomach (not your upper chest) moves out against your hand as if you were inflating a balloon. The hand on your chest should move very little. This should take about four seconds.

3. Hold the breath ever so slightly and then slowly breathe out through your nose as you ‘deflate the balloon’, again taking about four seconds.

4. Repeat the complete exercise for around four minutes.

5. If you find it difficult to breathe from your stomach while sitting up, try lying on the floor. Put a small book on your stomach, and try to breathe so that the book rises as you inhale and falls as you exhale.

If you can have some relaxing music in the background, even better!

You might get tired while doing this exercise. That may be because the breaths you are taking are too big.

Try to do this relaxation technique twice a day for four minutes each time. Keep at it, because with continued practice, diaphragmatic breathing will become easy and automatic.

it comes to reducing anxiety and stress, exercise is right up there. The good news is that exercise in almost any form can act as a stress reliever. Exercise pumps the body with chemicals called endorphins, which help us to feel happier. For many people, exercise also can improve sleep, which is often disrupted by tension, depression and anxiety. So, each day that you are on holiday, take a brisk walk (even if it means crossing off one planned activity from your list), choose stairs over lifts and, if you are able, go for a swim or rent a bicycle.

5

Keep Snapping Those Photos

And in ending off, here is an interesting tip. Scientists have discovered that

visual cues, such as looking at photos of past holidays, can release the ‘feelgood’ chemicals into our bodies. Take lots of photos while you are away; it will add enjoyment to your day-to-day life when you return. H

Wherever you go, and whatever you do, I hope that your holiday will be a relaxing and enjoyable one.

Yaakov Barr is a psychotherapist with an M.Sc. in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and a PG Dip in Counselling. He also has semicha from HaRav Moishe Sternbuch. He works in a private practice in London and can be reached on 0208 7319539 and 07791479106, or by email at info@Jbarr.co.uk

EXPLORE • MAY 2013

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Rain of E Blessing Blessing

lla struggled to see through the fog that hung over the grey-black sea. Her arms goosebumped as thunder grumbled wearily and an empty soda can skittered across the sand.

“We should probably get back to the bungalow,” Minnie said. She squinted against the wind. “This is what happens when you try to vacation at the shore in April.”

“It was a whole lot cheaper than June,” Ella said.

“Besides, there are too many kids around in the summer.”

Minnie grimaced. “Right. It’s noisy in the summer.”

She got up and rolled up the towel she’d been sitting on.

“Come on. Let’s go back.”

Ella and Minnie struggled against the wind as the sky turned the color of charcoal and the wind whipped at their bags that bulged with potato chips, cut-up vegetables and bottled water. They reached the bungalow and climbed the steps, jumping at the sound of the screen door slamming behind them.

“Bolt it,” Ella said.

“The wind doesn’t use a key,” Minnie said.

Ella laughed, then pressed her face against a window near the door. “This wind might.”

She went to the kitchen and filled the kettle. As she waited for it to whistle, she imagined the whistle of a child, any child. Everything reminded her of the children she could no longer have. The wind pulling her was the tug of a child’s hand. The tapping of the branches against the window was the tiny knock of a child on her bedroom door in the stillest part of night.

Minnie had left her own young children at home to take Ella on this vacation. Away from Ella’s own precious children and her dear husband. Minnie had promised it would do Ella good to get away from it all.

Ella knew what Minnie meant by “it all.” The friends she started having children with years ago, still pushing their strollers along, their new babies neatly tucked under pink and blue blankets. The grocery store lines where she eyed everybody’s carts piled high with diapers and baby food. The questions: “How old is your youngest?

Oh, really?”

Minnie meant well. She’d been Ella’s

By Yael Mermelstein

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best friend since second grade. She couldn’t bear to see Ella in pain. But Ella had been skeptical. A vacation was a change of venue, a shifting of physical surroundings. If Ella could vacate her brain from her body for a few days that might help to assuage her existential angst, but to place her into this artificial reality would not help.

“Here, Min,” Ella said, tiptoeing into the living room with two cups of coffee, the steam hot under her chin.

Minnie was curled up at the edge of the rattan couch, wrapped in a mustard-colored blanket, staring out the picture window at the roilling sea.

“Oh, my goodness, this is amazing,” she said. “I feel like a fisherman after a long day of work and I’m resting my weary bones.”

“Only we have no fish. And even if we did, we don’t have a stove and kosher pots to cook them.”

“Ella watched as he waded into the ocean, his boots disappearing into the murk. He struggled against the howling sea, raising his fists at it.

The water spit him out like a distasteful morsel. They watched as he hit the sand with a thundering thwack. He scurried to his hands and knees.”

“Point well taken, Ella.”

Minnie leaned forward and dipped her head toward the coffee. Ella sat on the edge of the couch, watching the rain strafe the window like a million tiny missiles. A mother ran with her young child, tugging his hands, his feet sticking in the wet sand.

“You know,” Minnie said, “you can always look away.”

“They’re right in front of the window. I wasn’t looking for it.”

“I didn’t mean literally,” Minnie said.

“I can’t look away, Min. It’s always there. Could you ignore a porcupine if you had to use him as a pillow?”

Minnie laughed. “You have such a way with words.”

They were quiet then, sipping at their coffee, listening to the sounds of the rain and the thunder.

The sky was nearly black now, until a jag of lightning split the world in two.

Which was when they saw him.

At first they thought he was a beached sea creature, flopping about on the sand. But then they read the desperation in his movements.

“He’s hurt,” Ella said.

She ran to the front door of the bungalow, followed by Minnie, who first grabbed her cell phone off the mantle.

The sand felt like clay around Ella’s ankles. She hoisted her legs and ran toward the sea, which was frothing at the mouth and looked like it wanted to swallow anything that came its way.

She saw him then, lying on the sand, a man quite older than herself, wearing black pants and a black shirt that were soaked and glistening, and yellow rubber boots that came to his knees.

“Are you okay?” Minnie yelled.

He looked up. “I’m not hurt,” he yelled.

Ella noticed a trickle of blood running down the man’s neck.

“Oh, but you are hurt,” she said. She motioned to Minnie to call for help with her cell phone.

“No!” he shouted. “Don’t call! I’m fine. I need to get back out to sea, though.”

He stood up then and walked calmly toward the hungry sea. Ella spied a thin, grey funnel out over the water.

“That’s very dangerous!” Ella said. “We should get indoors. There’s a hurricane coming this way!”

“I’ve got to find the men on my boat,” the man said. “I left them behind. I’m going.”

Ella watched as he waded into the ocean, his boots disappearing into the murk. He struggled against the howling sea, raising his fists at it.

The water spit him out like a distasteful morsel. continued on page 50 n at i o n a l

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49

Rain of Blessing

They watched as he hit the sand with a thundering thwack. He scurried to his hands and knees.

“We have to stop him!” Minnie said.

“Before he kills himself.” Ella watched as her friend dialed 999 on her telephone.

“I’m on vacation,” Minnie said, presumably to the operator. “I don’t know exactly where we are.”

Ella looked out toward the sea as Minnie walked against the wind, looking for landmarks to give to the operator. The man was grunting, trying to stand, his elbows digging into the wet sand.

Before he kills himself.

Ella tried to see a boat past the storm.

“My son equals three hundred curses,” the man shouted. But he wasn’t walking toward the raging water anymore.

“Well, then your daughter and your grandsons equal three hundred blessings,” Ella yelled back.”

His words cut through the wind.

“I know there has to be some blessing in your life,” Ella said. “There must be. Do you have other children?”

The funnel out over the water was inching toward land. Ella looked at Minnie, who was still talking on the phone.

“I’ve got a daughter. She’s married with two little boys. Brings them to see us pretty often. One of them wants to be like me when he grows up. Pity.”

“One daughter and two little grandsons,” Ella shouted. “That’s three blessings to live for.”

“My son equals three hundred curses,” the man shouted. But he wasn’t walking toward the raging water anymore.

“Well, then your daughter and your grandsons equal three hundred blessings,” Ella yelled back.

Minnie turned back in their direction.

Ella could see her eyes closed against the rain that made her face appear like it was crying a million tears.

“If you walk into the water, don’t think it’s because some choice was taken out of your hands,” Ella said. “You’re choosing to toss your blessings out to sea.”

The man stood still, his teeth chattering.

He nodded. “Last week my wife made me toast and liver. She knows I like that.”

“Another blessing.”

Minnie stumbled and knocked into Ella, breathless and cold. “I called for help,” she said. “So don’t do anything dumb, sir.”

He nodded again. The funnel was getting closer. They had to get back before it reached land.

It’s not in my hands, Ella thought.

She turned around and took Minnie’s hand. She felt the rain washing in sheets over their joined fingers. Minnie was a blessing. The children that she had were blessings. Her husband was a blessing.

She walked back toward the bungalow, looking over her shoulder to see a black figure retreating toward the main road.

The rented bungalow loomed like a warmFACILITIES FOR OUR GUEST and cozy blessing in the midst of a tempest.» Beth Midrash with Sfurin and » 2 swimming pools and spa are Ella stepped onto the veranda and felt» Coffee & cakes 24 h » Rich breakfast buffet » Packed lunch for outing the firm planks beneath her feet.

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Which weather-beaten fisherman would take out a boat on a day like this? This was no surprise storm.

“There aren’t really any men, are there?”

Ella called out to the man.

“What’s it to you?” he said.

What was it to her, this anonymous fisherman from this hick town by the sea?

“There’s no boat, is there? You’re trying to drown yourself, aren’t you? You’re trying to take a vacation from everything, aren’t you?”

“You don’t know me,” he shouted. “You don’t know anything about me. You don’t know about my son in jail and my wife who hasn’t spoken to me in six months and the fish that swim in the other direction every time I try to put food on the table. You don’t know anything.”

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Here and

By Nota Batlan

There

This past summer Yanky, Moishe and I, three residents of Arzei Habira, originally from New York, decided to tour Europe and see what it had to offer. Now armed with some patchy travel advice, we were on our way.

29th July

Our first stop was the United Kingdom, where we discovered that

“the Heathrow Express” was anything but … and that an umbrella could be considered an article of clothing. It rained the two days we spent in London, and although we couldn’t understand it, we heard that further north it rains even more. We spent the afternoon looking at Big Ben, with Buckingham Palace (the Queen’s house) underneath it, and once we crossed the river we went around the London Eye. I was told that on a clear day you could see most of London, but how they could ever have discovered this frankly beats me. After a late-night walk through central London, where we got hopelessly lost, we eventually found a train back to Golders Green. I was glad for the chance to finally sit down, but was soon glared off my seat by an elderly woman.

30th July

The next morning we were given a taste of British patience

when we had to wait for two hours in line for Madame Two Swords Wax Museum and found that we didn’t recognise 90 percent of the people featured.

We had to hurry out after I mistook a security guard for a model — the face changed colour as we placed my

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kappel on him (which I’m pretty sure it wouldn’t, had he been made of wax).

We visited the Tower of London — the oldest building, I’m told, in London (must be at least a hundred years or so), seeing some items the Brits stole from their colonies.

Then we spent the afternoon attempting to make the Chassidic-looking guards smile.

31st July

Now, on to the mainland. Our

first foreign port of call was Hungary, whence we flew from Birmingham Airport, with what sounded like a nice British person’s personal plane, Ryan’s Air. All for £3.50! — before taxes, charges and credit-card fee... oh, yeah, and seats.

After the officials decided we could not take our tub of mayonnaise on the plane (realizing we were plotting to fatten up the pilot, which would enable us to take over the plane), we were ushered aboard. It was then we discovered that the four back-row seats were not safe for taking off or landing! What this actually meant we were too afraid to ask.

In Budapest we nearly got locked up for crossing the road at the wrong time, so we made sure to return our bicycles well inside the hire time lest we’d have a warrant placed on our heads.

1st

August

Yanky, who had a great-great-grandfather who had once been Rav of a town

in rural Hungary, arranged for a driver, Szelak by name, to take us around.

Although Yanky started to narrate his prominent lineage, Szelak bettered this, filling the whole two-hour journey with the yichus of his minivan, a BMW (one of the first 200 BMW’s in Hungary after the fall of communism).

I lost count after the fourth Rebbe, one of whom was only a brother-in-law; Paysach Krohn and his entourage; and some female kiruv group who wanted to raise the profiles of the graves of various shtetl Rebbetzins.

We finished parts of Tehillim on the way to this shtetl, and after some poignant moments at the former beis hachaim (interrupted by Yanky trying to contact most of his family for all the full names of the “residents”).

Then we toured the formerly great town of Abony.

Ten minutes later, we set off toward the airport, overtaking most vehicles on this country lane. To be fair, these did consist of a few Ladas, more multi-seater motorbike-sidecars, and even more horses and wagons. Unfortunately, the local constabulary decided that we were going too fast for their liking.

Just a small bribe later we were allowed to continue on our way. continued on page 54

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4th

August

days!

What an interesting couple of

We had planned on going to Moscow but were told that Americans aren’t welcome — so we booked with a different airline, which at least promised to be fast.

Wizzair then took us to Rome. After we negotiated crossing the road from the airport with our lives intact, we headed off to our local lodging. Check-in time was only at four in the afternoon so we headed off to the main shul, where we had to pay for entry. From there we went to view the customary tourist sites, where we discovered that no one in Rome speaks English. We communicated by pantomime and grunting to the appropriate locals.

The next day was Friday. After toiveling our new pots at the Trevi Fountain, we headed back to the hotel to prepare our food.

The soup mix made a good chicken substitute (after which Moishe realised that this is what his mother has been serving the last ten years) and the locally sourced salmon proved not too hard to skin and cook. A mayonnaiseless meal later and two complaints about our “Kah Ribon” from the reception desk, we went to sleep.

I went for a walk later that evening and needed to give very clear noninstruction to the cleaner to open our electric door. It was only after our Shabbos afternoon rest did we realise that the red light in the corner of the hotel room might actually be a motion sensor and we were forced not to move for the rest of Shabbos. Luckily, two of us were in bed — although Yanky, on the balcony, wasn’t happy.

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5th

August

The final stop on our trip was Paris, where we were

advised not to walk around with our kappels, so we decided to be as inconspicuous as we could with our baseball caps … and pei’os and tzitzis. After checking in with some distant cousin (of one of us guys, we couldn’t actually remember), we headed to the Jewish neighbourhood, where the no-kappel rule started to feel slightly silly.

After a ridiculously long wait to climb the Eiffel Tower, we ended up admiring the view and pointing down at the people, who were in turn pointing up at us. We wasted the next day in a few museums, admiring the fascinating things housed at the Louvre. Did you know it is possible to fit 350 Japanese tourists in the space surrounding a famous painting?

I didn’t.

We found a kosher, authentic French restaurant on the Rue de Rossier: Mickey’s Deli, where they served hors d’oeuvres of burger and hot dog and authentic slivers of fried potatoes — French fries, I believe they call it.

Croatia- Summer 2013

O u r final leg of the journey was a Eurostar train journey back to London,

6th

August

and after some superfast French trains overtook us in the tunnel, we sat around in Folkestone due to some leaves or air (can’t remember which …) on the line. I have to say that Europe sure is one funny country! H

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Kashering Made Clear A basic guide to Kashering a nonkosher kitchen on Holiday

By Rabbi Elozor Leiberman (Gateshead Kashrus Authority(

Please note these are only basic guidelines.

One should always consult with his/her own competent halachic authority.

Worktops and tables:

All kitchen surfaces on which one places food and dishes — such as worktops and tables — should be cleaned and covered with any plastic or foil covering.

Some are particular to place hot pots and containers only on stands or mats and the like, and not directly on the covering.

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Dishwashers

Dishwashers can generally not be kashered and therefore should not be used. [Manufacturers have confirmed that food particles remain in the spray arms, pipe works and filters.]

[A she’eilah should be asked concerning commercial models, as sometimes the sprays and the like can be removed, cleaned and kashered.]

Sinks

The sink should be very well cleaned, including the taps, especially the spout and the draining board.

If one does not intend to wash up dishes or pots and the like in the sink, or if one washes only under running water without touching or placing anything in the sink, then the sink need not be kashered or covered. Hot water may also be used.

However, if the sink is to be used for washing the dishes or pots and so on properly, then preferable it should be covered. This can be achieved by placing large plastic disposable tablecloths or black bin bags split open over the sink and drainer, making a hole for the water outlet. [some also pour hot water from a kettle over the whole sink and taps (especially the spout, whilst keeping the hot water running as a precaution).

An alternative method would be to place bowls inside the sink when washing the dishes and plastic draining boards over the drainer, thereby

avoiding anything touching the sink or drainer [obviously using separate bowls for meaty, milky and pareve, as required].

Some people find it useful to make a hole in the bowls as a water outlet.

The taps should preferably also be covered, which can be done by placing plastic bags over them loosely, and securing them on the taps with rubber bands.

Ovens

The oven, including the trays, should be cleaned very well using an oven cleaner, removing any remaining food particles and residue.

The oven with the trays inside should then be left on the highest setting for approximately one hour.

All food and dishes that are placed in the oven should ideally be double wrapped with two separate layers of covering all around.

This can be achieved with either two sheets of aluminium foil or roaster bags. If this is not practical, the oven may be used as long as it is clean and the food or dish is properly covered at least once.

Microwave ovens

Microwave ovens should ideally not be used at all. This is because microwaves are usually not properly clean and are very difficult to clean properly [especially behind the light and the fan] which it makes it problematic to kasher.

Furthermore, even if one were to cover the food or dish twice [as explained regarding ovens], the likelihood is that due to the intense heat and small area, especially when containing liquid, the covering would burst open.

[In case of necessity where using a microwave is the only option available, one should ensure that the food is double wrapped and should contain minimal liquid, if any, and should not be left for a prolonged period of time. In the event that the covering does burst open a she’eilah should be asked.] continued on page 58

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57

Kashering Made Clear

Hobs and cooker tops a) Electric hobs

The hob should be cleaned very well, removing any remaining food particles and residue. The elements should all preferably be switched on the highest setting for approximately 10 minutes and then switched off.

One should preferably cover the enamel surfaces between the elements and around them with aluminium foil to avoid the pots and so on coming into contact with any uncovered surfaces.

b) Ceramic hobs

The hob should be cleaned very well, removing any remaining food particles and residue. The elements should all preferably be switched on the highest setting for approximately 10 minutes and then switched off.

This should be followed by pouring boiling water over the rest of the hob — being careful not to get the knobs and/or switches wet — and then switching off the cooker.

One should preferably cover any surrounds with aluminium foil where the pots could touch.

Ceramic hobs must NOT be covered with a metal blech, chicken wire or foil, as these could fuse the electricity, crack the glass and ruin the cooker.

c) Gas hobs

The hob, including the pan rest, should be cleaned very well, ideally with an oven cleaner, removing any remaining food particles and residue. The flames should be turned on their highest for approximately 15 minutes and then turned off.

The pan rests should preferably be covered with chicken wire or metal cooling trays so that the pots do not come into contact with the cooker.

One should also preferably cover any surrounds with aluminium foil where the pots could touch.

Barbeques and toasters

Barbeques, toasters and George Formans are extremely difficult to kasher, if at all, and therefore should not be used.

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If no chicken wire or trays are available then one can choose one of the following alternatives: - Kasher the pan rests by placing each part of them over the fire until it gets red hot.

- Place a blech on the pan rests with all the flames on the highest for approximately 15 minutes.

- Cover the pan rests themselves with aluminium foil.

If the cooker has an overhead hood or grill which is relatively close to the pots, it should preferably be covered underneath with foil. Similarly, if there is a backing to the cooker, it should be preferably also covered with foil.

Please note: A practical way to avoid cleaning, covering and kashering hobs and cookers is by bringing one’s own portable one- or two-ring electric cooker, hotplate and the like, thus not using their cooking facilities at all.

Utensils – keilim

All their keilim should be put away, especially those hanging above or lying near the cooker, to avoid them mistakenly being used.

One should preferably bring along one’s own kettle. Although kettles are generally used only for hot water, it has been noted that students and holiday makers sometimes boil their treif sausages and the like inside the kettles!

If necessary, and the kettle looks clean inside [i.e. nothing more then a water mark], it may be kashered by filling it up to its maximum and bringing it to the boil, and then pouring out some water through its spout whilst still boiling.

Drinking glasses which are meant for cold drinks only, may be used provided they are clean.

Similarly, nut crackers, bottle and tin openers may be used, provided they are clean.

Fridges and freezers

Fridges and freezers should be clean, and one should ascertain that there is no food remaining from previous occupants, and so on. The shelves need not be covered and containers may be placed on them directly. However, unwrapped foods should preferably not be placed directly on the shelves.

Some have the stringency of covering the shelves or placing all containers into bags before placing them into the fridge or freezer.

It is important to ensure that the bulb in the fridge or freezer is removed before Shabbos. It can also be inactivated by sticking down its switch with tape.

Furthermore, there are some newer models, where the opening and closing of the door activates a fan — which obviously is problematic for Shabbos.

[In most such models, placing a strong magnet in the centre top of the fridge, which touches the door when closed, will override the activation of the door sensor.]

Fridges and freezers with a temperature display should ideally have the displays covered for Shabbos. H

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Your Getaway With Glikson European Tours Get the most out of a simcha in Antwerp by spending the days outside the city, touring the rich, history-laden neighbouring areas and returning to Antwerp at night where you can unwind at your catered affair. It’s not often that you get a chance to do that. That’s why, during the week of a simcha, taking a Glikson tour is the ideal opportunity for that getaway. It’s even worth a trip to Antwerp specially, to join a Glikson Europe tour.

tions, ranging from the metropolitan tourist district of Paris and the exquisite Versailles Palace, the enchanting outdoors of tranquil Amsterdam with its rotating windmills soaring over fields of sweeping tulips, to picturesque Brugge, known as Little Venice, a beautiful city intertwined with marvellous architectural heritage and canals which can be enjoyed on glass-topped boats. Tours across the charismatic city of London are also available.

Glikson Travel does the organisation for you; all you have to do is book your seat. For eighteen years, they have been providing exciting, enriching tours, for individuals as well as groups of up to seventy five people, transporting hundreds of tourists to some of Europe’s most charming destinations, mere hours by car. Soak up the splendour of Europe while relaxing with your family. Relax: the timing is not your concern.

The competent guide will ensure that the timetable is moving along according to schedule, so you get back as planned.

If you’re short on time, stay local. Glikson will offer you a range of single day trips such as the Ardennes mountains, where you can explore centuries-old caves and see the continent’s largest stalactites and stalagmites.

Choose from a variety of fascinating European destina-

light refreshments

fully guided tour

If you’d prefer a more spiritual trip, just say so. Glikson Travel also offers trips to Germany, with visits to the Jewish quarter and kivrei tzaddikim in Michelstadt, Mains, Worms etc. so you get to discover the past while davening for a successful future!

Have a safe one!

packed itinerary

experience unforgettable outings 61

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Vacation Variation Four families share their holiday experiences

Boat trip Outline: A great way to visit many

different places, with the advantage of having to unpack just once! Lots of fresh air, sea breezes, and an opportunity to meet like-minded people from all over the world. Our last trip started in Barcelona, from where we went to Majorca, and on to Crete, Alexandria, Cairo, Ashdod. Haifa, Kusadasi … then on to Istanbul, where we stayed for two days and had a great tour of all the places of Jewish interest.

Travel:

It’s good to fly to a “warm water“ port to start out from - such as Barcelona or, say, Venice. Otherwise, if you start at Southampton, you have to sail through the Bay of Biscay, which can be “rocky”.

High Point:

Visiting somewhere you have always wanted to see.

We visited the Pyramids last year, which was an amazing site. Cruising into Haifa is always special. Standing on the deck as the ship approaches Israel, I always think of the Exodus, and — how the new immigrants must have felt on seeing Eretz Yisrael for the first time — knowing what they had been through in Europe.

Low Point: Feeling a bit seasick, if

it’s a little rough.

Would you go again? Oh

yes, I love travvelling on the sea! I have been on 15 such trips so far and can’t wait to go again, you always meet and make new friends.

Food:

Excellent-quality food, and lots of it. Kosher food is not a problem; most boat trips know the kosher form.

A. Earl

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Tour of Africa-Kenya Outline:

A trip to Kenya, to get a taste of Africa (me) and revisit old haunts (my husband) and to climb Mount Kenya – Africa’s second-highest mountain.

Travel:

Direct flight Heathrow to Nairobi and then local transport, called matatus. They depart when they’re ‘full’ – which may not match the European definition of full. (Question: How many people can you fit into a matatu? Answer: There’s always room for one more … and his goat!)

Food:

We took enough highenergy, compact food like cheese, chocolate and crackers, and supplemented this with local fresh fruit.

High Point:

Seeing a giraffe, for the first time, by the side of the road, grazing from the lower branch-

es of a tree as casually as if it were a cow in a field in England.

Low Point:

My husband getting Altitude Sickness on Mount Kenya. This is a potentially fatal illness that strikes without warning, in which the lungs fill with fluid. We were alone on an ice field 10,000 feet up. Baruch Hashem, my husband retained enough presence of mind to get us moving down the mountain, and then to direct me to relieve the lung congestion with back percussion.

This brainstorm, incidentally, was a piece of lateral thinking from his work as an osteopath, that has probably not been attempted before in these circumstances, but was spectacularly successful!

Would you go again?

What time is the flight?

R. Lewis

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Camping Trip – Sussex, UK Outline:

5 days, 1 caravan, 3 tents, 2 adults and 6 children.

Staying on a quiet, pretty caravan site in Sussex, England.

Travel: Drove by car down from

London. In the days of the old Volvos, if there was not enough space on the seat, you sat in the boot — or on the floor, for that matter.

Travel time was about six hours, including lunch breaks, toilet stops, the inevitable sick stop, and “Mummy, Shmulie’s kappel just went flying down the M25!”

Food: Cereal and long-life milk,

pasta and cheese, and barbecues when it stopped raining long enough for us to light the fire. Not the most luxuri-

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ous fare, but when you’re having fun ...

High Point: Listening to the rain patter oh-so-close above your head, whilst you’re cosy and warm inside the tent.

Low Point: Gale-force winds

meant that we were left at night with literally the stars above our heads, as our tent defied all forces of gravity and made its way to the opposite end of the camping site. Quite cold and wet, too.

Would you go again?

Yes, definitely, provided we could find a stronger mechanism to keep the tents securely on the ground ... and we wouldn’t mind slightly more sunshine, either.

Skiing Trip – Courchevel, France Outline: One-week family Low Point: ski trip to Courchevel ski resort.

Travel: Flight to Geneva, then 2½-hour transfer from airport to resort.

Food:

Vegetarian diet very well catered for — but requires advance planning!

Literally, high! The views from the highest points in the resort are breathtaking, and the runs are long, wide, and perfect for all types of skiers.

The prices.

Not the place to go if you are not prepared to spend £5 on a Coke.

Would you go again? Definitely! … After

we’ve saved up!! H

H. Rubenstein

High Point:

Visiting Tzfas Surround yourself with family and magnificent views in this spacious, luxury villa in Tzfas where you could truly imagine you’re on top of the world. With its sweeping, panoramic views of the ancient city, and modern fully-equipped accommodation, Princess offers guests the indulgence of an upscale hotel but with the privacy and seclusion you crave.

Spacious double rooms, designer bathrooms, an expansive living area make this place the perfect choice to host all the family ­— extended and more - to create memories of a luxury holiday with a heimishe feel.

The Holy City of

Tzfas

Set on a quiet side street that is a ten-minute walk from the main area, you’re never too far from the local amenities mikva and shuls - and eateries, but if you wish, have an order of your choice brought out to you, so you never have to step outside.

Experience Tzfas as never before!

In fact, there’s no need to step out with all the attractive extras offered under the roof of this one amazing villa. For a break away from it all, enjoy the large private swimming pool, the charming exotic terrace. As you swing back on the hammock, let your imagination soar.

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‫בס"ד‬

Stubai Your destination this year.

Summer 2013 in Tyrol Austria, Levkowits Family is proud to host you this year in Fulpmes, in the beautiful Stubai vally. In the Sporthotel Cristall**** you will enjoy the luxury rooms and suites, The large and spacious lobby, And the wonderful spa with indoor swiming pool and sauna. Our chef's will serve you the gourmet food. From the Stubai vally you can reach the city and the airport of Innsbruck in 20 min. by car or by train, as also the all attractions of the Tyrol and the Dolomites in Italy. For your childern we will wait with the amazing "kids paradise" with two floors of games and attractions.

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‫המלון גלאט כשר למהדרין‬ ‫בהשגחה צמודה של הרב‬ ‫ר' אברהם יונה שווארץ אב"ד‬ ‫דק"ק קהל חסידים קהל‬ ‫ישראל ווין יצ"ו‬

Traveling into

Yesteryear Why,Where & When

BY Rabbi Aaron Hersh - JLE London

have been fugitives, immigrants, merchants, scholars, but above all travelers, ever since we arrived in Europe – an echo of the first command given to the first Jew: Lech Lecha.

For

the last one thousand years, we have been referred to as the Wandering Jew by the nations around us.

Although intended as an insult, the appellation is apt as, in truth, we

Every country in Europe has been home to a kehillah of Jews and to Rabbanim of note, from Finland to Bosnia (R’ Naftali Amsterdam and the Chacham Tzvi, respectively). It is in Europe that Rashi wrote his commentary, that the Maharal lived and taught, and that the Rothschilds ran a banking empire. It was the birthplace of the Ashkenaz derech and of Chassidus, of the printing press and of Yiddish. On a darker note, it was also where the Crusades and the Tach v’Tat massacres were carried out and where Christianity, along with its ghettoes and its censorship, ruled over the Jews.

Countless teshuvos were written to travelers or to those forced into wandering. The Mahrashdam in 16th century

Greece was asked whether money could be sewn into continued on page 70

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The

Mahrashdam in 16th century Greece was asked whether money could be sewn into clothing and worn on Shabbos - a situation he was mattir. For his part clothing and worn on Shabbos — a situation he was mattir.

For his part, the Chavos Ya’ir was confronted with a question of minhagim after the city of Worms was destroyed through war and people despaired of its ever being rebuilt. He responded that a community never despairs, and indeed he became the Rav there in 1699.

Additionally, through the ages, famous personalities such as the Chida, Ibn Ezra, and R’ Ovadiah MiBartenura traveled widely and wrote diaries to record their impressions, as did Sir Moses Montefiore. Sir Moses never lost his passion for travel, his aim being to encounter his fellow Jews or intercede on their behalf and he undertook a voyage to Romania in 1867 at the age of 82. In the

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course of 40 years he would meet the Sultan of Turkey, Czar Nicholas I of Russia, and Napoleon III.

European Jewry grew substantially, both in numbers and importance, from the 11th century onward. Fewer

than 100,000 lived there when Rashi was born in 1040, whereas by 1940, it was home to eleven million — two- thirds of world Jewry. Visiting these countries thus affords an opportunity to learn how Jews shaped their own history — to see, to touch the memories of communities. They made their mark on the Continent, and wherever they lived there are traces — although, unfortunately, traces are often all that’s left. Nonetheless, a number of “hidden jewels” exist, such as Provencal, France; Sopron in Hungary; and Trakai in Lithuania. Even London and Paris have their treasures dating back to the Ba’alei Tosafos.

And the further east we go, the more it feels as though time has almost stopped; a sense of history permeates everything. Despite the sensation

of tragedy in the air, we are almost able to see how our ancestors lived: to visit shtetlech, some graced with large and ornate synagogues, others with tiny prayer rooms. Unfortunately, many of these languish in a state of semidecay (although there are endeavours to restore a significant number).

Occasionally, these villages are still home to a few remaining Jews, whose stories span not only the Holocaust but also 40 years of Communism.

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It

has been said that the world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page Their cemeteries are often the resting places of tzaddikim and sometimes the location of mass graves — either of these circumstances requiring a perek of Tehillim.

The East also occasionally attests to those places that have managed the impossible — cities like Odessa, for example — which have emerged from an almost total spiritual and physical destruction to forge a future.

Poland, initially a place of refuge, was for centu-

ries the location of a form of Jewish self-government (through the Va’ad Arba Aratzos) and of much of our collective past. Of course, for some there is no longer such a place on the map as Poland; it is a country never to go back to. For others, though, it gives expression

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to much of what they have been brought up with and heard about.

However, it is not just Eastern Europe where the past speaks to us so strongly; the West has its own stories and legends. The “Austritt” section of the Frankfurt cemetery, separated by a wall from the rest, is physical testimony to the results of the decisions of history. How many descendants of the other section can even claim to be Jewish today?

Naturally, for every traveler there will be the town that holds a special pull, be it Vilna, Uman or Venice. A

word of warning, though: Geographical research may well be necessary, because the towns we are familiar with often have a number of different names. People may know that Reisha in Yiddish is Rszezow (Zse-Zshuv) or that Nowy-Sacz is Sanz, but few realise that Breslau is now called Wroclaw, that Chelm is actually pronounced Che’um, and that neither Wisznice orVishnevets corresponds to Vizhnitz. Then, too, with borders having

moved so frequently, it is not surprising that Lemberg, which had the largest Jewish community in prewar Galicia, is not only no longer in Poland but is now called Lviv.

The good news of such a trip is accessibility. At almost any time of the year it is possible to travel, arrange kosher food,

see shuls, and find guides, museums and hotels — on occasion, even a Jewish music festival.

Cheap airlines have made remote places reachable, and I have to confess to a strange feeling when I see flights departing to Cluj (Klausenberg) or Kaunas (Kovno).

These short flights can connect such different worlds nowadays.

It has been said that the world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.

Still, the real reason to go is so that you can return with a broader perspective — more informed, more connected, and more amazed by the miracle of our survival and by these Jews’ commitment. H

Weekend at the

Summer Vacation

Hilton Oradea

Dead Sea

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The spa will be open throughout the day.

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A culinary experience led by chef

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The price is inclusive: Direct ights & Transfers

Rabbi Chai Horowitz will give shiurim and Torah thoughts on Shabbos The chazanim Moshe Reicher and Yechezkel Zorger will lead prayers and singing.

Daily Trips: Budapest/Satu Mare (Satmar) Carpathian mountains | Attractions Shopping with our staff’s assistance

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> Seasonal vacations > Projects > Shabbos events > Weekends > Holidays > Groups and more

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Huddled Masses

By Mordechai Schmutter

I think they should get rid of airline safety speeches.

It’s not like anyone listens anyway, except for the infrequent fliers such as myself, who are convinced that this is the one time something is going to happen. Everyone else just ignores the speech and looks through their Skymall catalog for things that they absolutely need but don’t know why. (“Cool! Bookends that look like books!”) And if you’re into safety, you could always glance through your safety card, which you can feel free to take with you, in case you ever have a need for airline safety on the road.

It’s not like what they’re saying is that useful.

If everyone else on the plane is going toward the exit, we’re probably just going to follow them. Also, the flight attendants go into a whole speech about what to do in the

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event of a water landing, even though as far as you can tell, you’re not flying over water.

Why don’t they tell you how to fend off alligators, while they’re at it? They also say that if the oxygen masks come down, you should put one on, and then, and I quote, “breathe normally”.

But you know that if the oxygen masks come down, not a single person is going to be breathing normally.

But it’s still important that they give the speech, the idea being that if

you prepare for an eventuality, then it probably won’t happen. It’s kind of like how, when you bring your umbrella with you, it doesn’t rain. Because if, Heaven forbid, something does happen, they’re not going to suddenly give their safety speech over the people screaming, “How on earth does one put on seatbelts?” and “Should we breathe normally?”

On the whole, statistically, it’s actually a lot safer to fly than to drive, because on the road there are way more idiots driving at 3 miles per hour with their blinker on and not realizing it because they’re staring at their phones. We only think planes are more dangerous,

because not every car accident makes the news. With cars, we keep seeing ads about how safe they are. Whereas the “new plane” commercials aren’t marketed to us (especially those of us flying coach), so all we get are the news reports when something bad happens, as well as flight safety speeches every time we get on the plane that make it sound like every flight is going to end with people fighting over the floating seat cushions. But the truth is that airlines have very few disasters, and all of them make the news.

that made it obvious that he wasn’t listening. So he looked over and saw the pilot answering some texts that had just come in.

At some point, the plane let off a warning, but by then it was too late to put down the landing Like the recent story of an Austra- gear, and they got within 400 feet the ground before swerving violently lian pilot who was ofupward and not exhaling again until they texting during were safely back in the sky. You know how the speeches always say that everylanding, and totally forgot to

put down his landing gear, and almost crashed into the runway. (Don’t worry.

Everyone would have been okay, thanks to the floating seat cushions.) What happened was, the plane started the approach, and the copilot noticed that whenever he said something to the pilot, the pilot responded with one of those “mm-hmm” noises

one should turn off their phones? Maybe they’re talking to the pilots.

But in the meantime, there are safety issues that they maybe should mention that they don’t bother to bring up, such as trying not to annoy the hundred other people crammed into a tube with you, flying G-d only knows how high (because the pilot is too busy with his phone to know how high). Because as uncomfortable continued on page 76

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Huddled Masses So my choices were to either hold everything, or put it on the floor and put my feet on top of it, with my knees under my chin.

At least until the guy in front of me decided he needed to lean his seat back. He then spent the rest of the flight in the overhead bin, with the toilet paper, and I was able to put my bag on his seat.

as you are, squished into seats that you could swear used to be bigger, everyone else is just as uncomfortable, and if you’re not cognizant of that, you shouldn’t be surprised if your fellow passengers attempt to stuff you safely into the overhead compartment.

For example, the last time I flew, my seat was in the very last row, on the aisle, with one of my arms pretty much in the bathroom. I had no overhead compartment to stow things in, because all the spare bathroom supplies were up there — like the 15 rolls of toilet paper, because apparently people are spending the entire time in the air just burning through toilet paper. I was advised to stow my bag at my feet, but my feet are too big. As it is, my toes were pretty much touching the heels of the guy in front of me.

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There was only one compartment in that plane, which was coach.

I don’t know why it’s called coach. It

has absolutely nothing to do with football, except that it’s a lot like a huddle.

In fact, maybe we’ll all fit better if, like in a huddle, we just looped our arms over each other’s shoulders. Because the armrests definitely aren’t sufficient.

Someone decided that for every two people, there should be one armrest. So ideally, if you’re living in a society where no one is irritable, everyone agrees to use only one armrest, and they either spend

the entire flight leaning away from each other, or everyone uses the one to their right at the beginning of the flight, and then halfway through the flight they switch, so that nothing falls asleep.

But sometimes you’ll be sitting next to a passenger who is using two or even three armrests. Sometimes the people on either side of you will be using both of their armrests, and you’ll have to sit with your elbows touching each other, while both fall asleep on your shoulders.

But don’t worry, they’ll wake up when you land, because they have more annoying routines to get to.

For example, they have

say this right into your ear, even though you know they’ve landed, partly because they’re sitting on you, and partly because you’ve heard half the people on the plane say that same thing into their phones. You’d think that now that they’re on the ground, there are plenty of other places to call from. This isn’t really major news. Maybe they’re just surprised, after hearing that whole scary speech at the beginning of the flight, that everything turned out okay.

And meanwhile, the pilot’s doing it too.

But he’s not calling his wife, he’s texting her: PILOT: “I’m landing.”

WIFE: “Thank G-d. Did you remember to put down the landing gear this time?”

PILOT:…

WIFE: “Honey?”

PILOT: “Hang on.

I’m going back up.” H

to stand up while the plane is still taxiing down the runway, like the pilot is going to forget to let them off. “This is my stop,” they tell you helpfully.

And of course they have to call someone to let them know they’ve landed. They

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London-Antwerp-London

Ezra Youth Camp

Gaby Burns

Ezra Youth Movement has been inspiring generations of children for almost 95 years.

• 8 - 12 - 16 Seaters • Special prices for groups

Over the last few years it has been reinvigorated and our camps have become even more exciting, inspiring and life changing experiences for every one of the 350 children we take on camp each year ranging from 8 to 18 years old.

• Experienced drivers • Door to door service • Passengers are fully insured • Comfortable seats/air condition

Ezra has employed Rabbi Shmuel and Esti Kimche to direct the movement and inspire our madrichim and madrichot.

• Service with a smile

This year we will be running 8 camps for boys and girls separately in 3 countries, all of which are staffed by the best madrichim and madrichot, who are trained to bring out the best in each and every child and ensure that the most is made of this incredible summer experience. Our camps always have a waiting list and are almost full already!

For more details on our camps or other information about our events throughout the year please visit www. ezrayouth.com or email camps@ezrayouth.com.

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Age: 8-11

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"Ezra has the vision and the ability to inspire our youth to grow up to be proud, upstanding hrwt ynb and larcy twnb and a credit to our community." - Dayan Ehrentreu

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'Groups like Ezra are so vital'

'A wonderful institution'

Rabbi C. Schmahl

Rabbi YM Greenberg

i n t e r n at i o n a l

abby.kleerekoper@gmail.com

A

STORY

AND THE WINNER OF OUR WRITING COMPETITION IS......

The Holiday

That Never Was The true story of a holiday fiasco

By G.B. Hirsch — Gateshead Prize: One year Hamodia subscription + £50 i n t e r n at i o n a l

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The holiday that Never Was The true story of a holiday fiasco G.B. Hirsch - Gateshead

For years afterwards, we fondly remembered it as the Holiday That Never Was;

or as my husband (who is of the more cynical variety) referred to it, The Holiday That Went Drastically Wrong. To use alliterative terminology, it was the Holiday That Hadn’t Happened.

It all began innocently enough. It had been a long and dreary winter; we had endured months of grey, overcast skies, lashes of icy rain, and swirling white snow

blizzards. I was craving some sunshine. I dreamed of the beach, with its soft golden sand and deep-aquablue water. Summer was finally approaching, and a fantasy-like dream beckoned ...

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And that was how we found ourselves anticipating what was sure to be the holiday of a lifetime.

We were booked to go to a beautiful seaside resort, known for its blazing heat and golden sand. It had the added advantage of being peaceful and quiet (yes, this place really does exist, although I am not disclosing its name for fear that the masses will discover it!) during the early summer season. We booked to fly with a reputable no-frills, cheap airline (no, I will not divulge its name, for reasons that will soon become obvious...). We were all set.

Then began the preparing-packingpreparing frenzy. There was so much to do! As the deadline of our departure drew near, we became busier and busier. We washed, folded and packed; we bought, chatted and dreamed. My husband had an itinerary all prepared, down to the last detail. I even had the menus all written down (Tuesday lunch: tuna and pickles. Wednesday lunch: egg and tomatoes). The night before, the kids were

tience in his voice. “So what if she’s here?

Just say hello, and walk on. We have a flight to catch.”

“Don’t be silly!” I shriekwhisper. (All the children are silent now, roundeyed and fascinated; they sense something interesting afoot.)

“There is no way I can face her. We’ll just have to wait until she leaves ...”

And so we sit, and argue and argue and sit. At one point, my husband opens his car door but my reaction is so strong that he hurriedly closes it.

Meanwhile, at the other end of the parking lot, Miriam looks calm and relaxed. She seems to be waiting for somebody. She stands, alternately chatting to her daughter (look, she really does seem sweet!), checking her phone, and smoothing her sheitel. She is in no rush.

so excited, they could hardly sleep.

My excitement (er, is excitement the same thing as nerves?) had also reached feverpitch.

The way to the airport was surprisingly uneventful. There was no traffic, and the kids were calm and docile, happy to finally be on the way to our long-awaited destination.

It was when we reached the airport that the trouble began.

As my husband began to park the car, I glanced out the window, and suddenly lost my breath and equilibrium in one fell swoop. Standing there in the parking lot was Miriam Wiener (of course this is not her real name; I cannot disclose her real name, for reasons that will soon become blatantly obvious).

Now, I happen to have a twenty-twoyear-old son. And Miriam Wiener happens to have a twenty-year-old daughter.

“Nachum,” I stage-whisper to my longsuffering husband, “we can’t leave the car until Miriam Wiener has gone.”

“Who?” My spouse looks at me, uncomprehending.

“Miriam Wiener.” I repeat, whispering tensely. We try to keep shidduch details as private as possible; the last thing I need is my teenage daughter’s wise opinions.

Recognition dawns on my husband’s face.

“Oh, you mean, your friend...”

“That’s right,” I hiss back. “My oldest friend, who I sat next to in kindergarten, whose daughter you refuse to take for Dovid ...”

“Yes, yes, I know who you mean now,” my husband breaks in, a thread of impa-

STORY

continued on page 82

H

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The holiday that Never Was And I? My heart is pumping, my fingers are clenched.

My throat is dry and my voice hurts from shoutwhispering. My husband, resigned, has nodded off in his seat. The kids bounce excitedly, stopping every couple of minutes to ask, “Please, Mummy, can we get out yet?”

And the clock ticks on. And on. And on.

It is many, many minutes later when Miriam’s husband finally arrives, elderly father in tow. By then, I’m twisted into a coil of tight nerves. The children are jumping up and down like springs.

Through it all, my husband’s snores methodically continue, gentle and serene, but with a persistence that is hard to ignore.

I give the long-awaited green light. Out they tumble, relieved that despite the unknown glitch, the holiday plans are continuing. My husband is jolted awake; he glances at his watch and gives a startled exclamation. “Quick!” he exclaims. “We are late, and must hurry if we want to catch our flight!”

We hurry. We throw caution to the wind and gallop and jog and scamper and run until we reach the checkout desk. My mind is still preoccupied; I am slowly beginning to relax as I realise that I have escaped the dreaded, potentially embarrassing encounter with Miriam.

But what is happening? My husband’s face shows a greenish, unhealthy pallor. Even the children look subdued. I tune in to hear what is going on. The impeccably made-up woman behind the desk shakes her head apologetically.

“I’m sorry,” she says in a well-practised monotone. “Our airline demands a minimum check-in time before the flight, and you have missed the deadline by four minutes ...”

And no, there was nothing we could do about it. We wheedled and moaned,

begged and pleaded.

I sobbed as I showed the manager our detailed itinerary (Thursday; cold-cuts and pickles), but he was unmoved. They had a certain protocol

82

E X PLO R E • MAY 2013

i n t e r n at i o n a l

STORY they had to observe, they explained.

Although there was still time until take-off, they could not allow us to check in.

So we returned home, our holiday dreams dissipating into thin air like spirals of wispy smoke. We never did get to that glorious destination; we had to cancel all our plans.

And my son? He’s happily married for many years now, although not to Miriam Wiener’s daughter. Miriam and I are great friends to this day, and we recently shared a good laugh when I told her our family folklore, the family memory of the Holiday That Never Was.

And what have our holiday plans been in the years following that fateful incident, you might be wondering.

Well, we do our best to enjoy ourselves in the English countryside not far from where we live. It’s a little grey and dreary, and it tends to rain a lot. I’m starting to feel tempted to go on some tropical holiday … and who knows?

Now that I’ve just married off my youngest, it might even be safe to try it! H

avel Agency r T n a ld e F From

Travel Tips Organising a trip abroad can be quite confusing these days, with so many different options available. Hamodia spoke to Feldan Travel Agency to obtain advice for our readers.

Travel agent or booking online? One major issue

BA Lauiggrgg paagogere t

BFalighgt as ge

is, why use a “traditional” travel agent at all nowadays, rather than booking plane tickets online? [ Feldan explained that although sometimes online tickets seem cheaper, there are often hidden extras.

Traditional travel agents try to be as competitive as possible, and apart from being able to rival budget airlines, they will generally match the prices available elsewhere, or charge very little more (which constitutes the service fee, covering the personal service offered). [ If there is a problem with a flight, such as a cancellation or change of time, the travel agent will be informed straight away and can help the passenger to rebook or reorganise the journey. Not to mention how much more pleasant and less stressful it is to speak with a person whose job is to try to help you, rather than have to deal with blocked phone lines or overstretched airline staff. [ When booking, a travel agent can find a suitable flight and hold onto it for a few hours before actually purchasing it. This enables the passenger to make sure they have got the best deal and confirm that the details of time, date and destination are accurate, before making the purchase. It is very important to check the confirmation details carefully and correct any mistakes sooner rather than later. If you book, saying, “I’d like to go next Tuesday,” make sure the travel agent and airline understand “next Tuesday” to mean the same date as you do! [ In busy seasons, such as before yomtov or in the summer, a travel agent will always try to find the most competitive price possible for his clients. Feldan can act as a one-stop shop when a customer is visiting Eretz Yisrael and arrange not only the flights, but also hotels and car hire, to make travelling as easy as possible.

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E X PLO R E • MAY 2013

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s t r po

s s a P

Insura

nce

Visa

When to book? Travellers are often unsure about when the best time is to book a flight – the prices seem to go up and down at random and it is hard to know whether to buy a long time in advance, or at short notice. Feldan suggested that the best time to buy is three months in advance, unless you want to travel in a very busy season (in which case they suggest nine months before flying, and if there is nothing suitable, then again three months before). Three months is the ideal time, they said, as that is when the airlines look at each flight to see how full it is, and then they will put on special offers, to encourage people to fill up flights which have lots of spare seats.

One-way or round-trip?

When purchasing a ticket for a young person spending a year in Eretz Yisrael, it is tempting to buy a cheap one-way ticket and assume that when they want to come home for a simcha, for yomtov, or at the end of the year, an equally cheap ticket will be available.

However, this is often not the case. Feldan recommends buying a specialist ticket from an airline such as El Al, which is valid for a year and also allows one change of return flight with no further charges. They said that, in their experience, this generally works out cheaper than buying several one-way tickets.

Baggage. The various luggage regula-

tions of different airlines can be confusing.

Most airlines have now come into line with the central air authority and allow only one piece of luggage per passenger without paying extra.

This prevents problems when changing flights, as all the airlines have the same rules. It is worth investigating the airline’s charges for extra luggage, be it another suitcase or more weight, as this varies quite a lot, and can add a significant amount to the cost of the ticket. Some airlines allow passengers to pay for extra luggage with loyalty points. Good-quality luggage, which does not break on its first journey, is a must, as is weighing the luggage at home, to prevent difficulties at the airport. continued on page 86 i n t e r n at i o n a l

h amod ia tr av e l s u p p l e m e n t

85

Travel Tips When to arrive at the airport? Another question

travelers often ask is, “When is the best time to arrive at the airport?” Feldan suggests not later than two hours before the flight. This allows plenty of time to pass through check-in, security, etc., and still have time to relax in the lounge or look in the shops. Even if everyone on a flight were to arrive at the same time, most airlines have enough personnel to open up more desks and process the passengers quickly.

Arriving too late at the airport puts travellers at risk of missing their flight and losing the cost of the tickets, as well as causing delays and inconvenience for other travellers. If you know in advance that you won’t be able to travel, then contact either your travel agent or the airline and inform them. This way, the plane will not be delayed waiting for people who are not coming.

Airlines potentially blacklist “no-shows”, causing difficulties traveling in the future.

Also, if the plane is canceled for some reason, and you have told them you are not coming, you will be able to rebook, whereas if you have just not turned up, you will lose the tickets.

Passports and visas. Always ensure

that your passport is valid and that it will still be in date when you return home.

Some countries require you to have a certain amount of time — such as six months’ validity — left on your passport; and people lacking this have been turned away from flights, causing tremendous inconvenience and expense.

If traveling to the USA, passengers need an electronic visa, known as an ESTA. The U.S. border authorities have a blacklist, as do the Israeli authorities. Australia also requires an electronic visa. If a traveler is refused entry to a country, the airline which brought him is responsible for returning him.

Understandably, airlines do not want to do this, and they will therefore check passports and visas thoroughly before allowing a passenger to board. Your travel agent can sometimes help with this, but better still, make sure you have the correct documents!

If there is a problem with a flight, such as a cancellation or change of time, the travel agent will be informed straight away and can help the passenger to rebook or reorganise the journey Travel insurance. Finally,

on the topic of cancellations and rebooking, never travel without travel insurance. For a nominal fee, even for whole families, or students travelling for a year, one can potentially save a large amount of money. Your travel agent will be able to assist with this, although these days, many credit cards and banks also offer travel insurance. H

L’chaim u’leshalom!

Travel safely and enjoy your stay!

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JULY 22-AUGUST 1, 2013

THE GREAT JEWISH TOUR OF

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Glatt Kosher Chinese 51 Church Road London NW4 4DU

020 8203 7888

www.kaifeng.co.uk

Date

Neitz

Shema

Shacharis

Shekiah

Candle

Cardiff Friday July 19 Shabbos July 20 Sunday July 21 Monday July 22 Tuesday July 23 Wednesday July 24 Thursday July 25 Friday July 26 Shabbos July 27 Sunday July 28 Monday July 29 Tuesday July 30 Wednesday July 31 Thursday August 1 Friday August 2 Shabbos August 3 Sunday August 4

05:18 05:20 05:21 05:22 05:24 05:25 05:27 05:28 05:29 05:31 05:32 05:34 05:35 05:37 05:38 05:40 05:41

08:42 08:43 08:44 08:44 08:45 08:46 08:46 08:47 08:48 08:48 08:49 08:50 08:51 08:51 08:52 08:53 08:53

10:14 10:15 10:15 10:16 10:16 10:17 10:17 10:17 10:18 10:18 10:19 10:19 10:20 10:20 10:21 10:21 10:22

21:19 21:18 21:17 21:15 21:14 21:13 21:11 21:10 21:08 21:07 21:05 21:04 21:02 21:01 20:59 20:57 20:56

21:04

Paris Friday July 19 Shabbos July 20 Sunday July 21 Monday July 22 Tuesday July 23 Wednesday July 24 Thursday July 25 Friday July 26 Shabbos July 27 Sunday July 28 Monday July 29 Tuesday July 30 Wednesday July 31 Thursday August 1 Friday August 2 Shabbos August 3 Sunday August 4

06:08 06:09 06:10 06:11 06:12 06:14 06:15 06:16 06:17 06:19 06:20 06:21 06:23 06:24 06:25 06:26 06:28

09:26 09:26 09:27 09:28 09:28 09:29 09:29 09:30 09:31 09:31 09:32 09:33 09:33 09:34 09:34 09:35 09:36

10:56 10:56 10:57 10:57 10:58 10:58 10:58 10:59 10:59 11:00 11:00 11:00 11:01 11:01 11:02 11:02 11:02

21:46 21:45 21:43 21:42 21:41 21:40 21:39 21:37 21:36 21:35 21:33 21:32 21:31 21:29 21:28 21:26 21:25

88

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Holiday Z Cha

20:55

20:44

21:28

21:19

21:10

Date

Neitz

Shema

Shacharis

Shekiah

Candle

Cliftonvile Friday July 19 Shabbos July 20 Sunday July 21 Monday July 22 Tuesday July 23 Wednesday July 24 Thursday July 25 Friday July 26 Shabbos July 27 Sunday July 28 Monday July 29 Tuesday July 30 Wednesday July 31 Thursday August 1 Friday August 2 Shabbos August 3 Sunday August 4

05:00 05:02 05:03 05:04 05:06 05:07 05:08 05:10 05:11 05:13 05:14 05:16 05:17 05:19 05:20 05:22 05:23

08:24 08:24 08:25 08:26 08:27 08:27 08:28 08:29 08:29 08:30 08:31 08:31 08:32 08:33 08:34 08:34 08:35

09:56 09:56 09:57 09:57 09:58 09:58 09:59 09:59 10:00 10:00 10:00 10:01 10:01 10:02 10:02 10:03 10:03

21:00 20:59 20:58 20:56 20:55 20:54 20:52 20:51 20:49 20:48 20:46 20:45 20:43 20:42 20:40 20:38 20:37

20:45

Arosa Friday July 19 Shabbos July 20 Sunday July 21 Monday July 22 Tuesday July 23 Wednesday July 24 Thursday July 25 Friday July 26 Shabbos July 27 Sunday July 28 Monday July 29 Tuesday July 30 Wednesday July 31 Thursday August 1 Friday August 2 Shabbos August 3 Sunday August 4

05:46 05:47 05:49 05:50 05:51 05:52 05:53 05:54 05:55 05:57 05:58 05:59 06:00 06:01 06:03 06:04 06:05

09:00 09:01 09:01 09:02 09:03 09:03 09:04 09:04 09:05 09:05 09:06 09:07 09:07 09:08 09:08 09:09 09:10

10:29 10:30 10:30 10:30 10:31 10:31 10:31 10:32 10:32 10:33 10:33 10:33 10:34 10:34 10:34 10:35 10:35

21:08 21:07 21:06 21:05 21:04 21:03 21:02 21:01 21:00 20:58 20:57 20:56 20:54 20:53 20:52 20:50 20:49

20:36

20:25

20:50

20:43

20:34

y Zemanim Chart Date

Neitz

Shema

Shacharis

Shekiah

Bournemouth Friday July 19 Shabbos July 20 Sunday July 21 Monday July 22 Tuesday July 23 Wednesday July 24 Thursday July 25 Friday July 26 Shabbos July 27 Sunday July 28 Monday July 29 Tuesday July 30 Wednesday July 31 Thursday August 1 Friday August 2 Shabbos August 3 Sunday August 4

05:17 05:18 05:19 05:20 05:22 05:23 05:24 05:26 05:27 05:29 05:30 05:31 05:33 05:34 05:36 05:37 05:39

08:38 08:39 08:40 08:40 08:41 08:42 08:42 08:43 08:44 08:45 08:45 08:46 08:47 08:47 08:48 08:49 08:49

10:10 10:10 10:11 10:11 10:12 10:12 10:13 10:13 10:14 10:14 10:14 10:15 10:15 10:16 10:16 10:17 10:17

21:10 21:09 21:08 21:07 21:05 21:04 21:03 21:01 21:00 20:58 20:57 20:56 20:54 20:52 20:51 20:49 20:47

Llandudno Friday July 19 Shabbos July 20 Sunday July 21 Monday July 22 Tuesday July 23 Wednesday July 24 Thursday July 25 Friday July 26 Shabbos July 27 Sunday July 28 Monday July 29 Tuesday July 30 Wednesday July 31 Thursday August 1 Friday August 2 Shabbos August 3 Sunday August 4

05:12 05:13 05:15 05:16 05:18 05:19 05:21 05:22 05:24 05:25 05:27 05:29 05:30 05:32 05:33 05:35 05:37

08:40 08:41 08:42 08:42 08:43 08:44 08:45 08:45 08:46 08:47 08:48 08:48 08:49 08:50 08:51 08:52 08:52

10:14 10:14 10:15 10:15 10:16 10:16 10:17 10:17 10:18 10:18 10:19 10:19 10:20 10:20 10:21 10:21 10:22

21:31 21:29 21:28 21:26 21:25 21:24 21:22 21:20 21:19 21:17 21:16 21:14 21:12 21:10 21:09 21:07 21:05

Candle 20:55

20:46

20:36

Date

Neitz

Shema

Shacharis

Shekiah

Candle

Glasgow Friday July 19 Shabbos July 20 Sunday July 21 Monday July 22 Tuesday July 23 Wednesday July 24 Thursday July 25 Friday July 26 Shabbos July 27 Sunday July 28 Monday July 29 Tuesday July 30 Wednesday July 31 Thursday August 1 Friday August 2 Shabbos August 3 Sunday August 4

04:59 05:01 05:02 05:04 05:06 05:07 05:09 05:11 05:13 05:14 05:16 05:18 05:20 05:22 05:24 05:25 05:27

08:34 08:35 08:36 08:37 08:38 08:39 08:39 08:40 08:41 08:42 08:43 08:44 08:45 08:46 08:47 08:47 08:48

10:10 10:11 10:11 10:12 10:13 10:13 10:14 10:14 10:15 10:16 10:16 10:17 10:17 10:18 10:18 10:19 10:20

21:47 21:45 21:44 21:42 21:40 21:39 21:37 21:35 21:33 21:31 21:30 21:28 21:26 21:24 21:22 21:20 21:18

21:32

Marbella Friday July 19 Shabbos July 20 Sunday July 21 Monday July 22 Tuesday July 23 Wednesday July 24 Thursday July 25 Friday July 26 Shabbos July 27 Sunday July 28 Monday July 29 Tuesday July 30 Wednesday July 31 Thursday August 1 Friday August 2 Shabbos August 3 Sunday August 4

07:16 07:17 07:17 07:18 07:19 07:20 07:20 07:21 07:22 07:23 07:23 07:24 07:25 07:26 07:27 07:27 07:28

10:14 10:15 10:15 10:15 10:16 10:16 10:17 10:17 10:17 10:18 10:18 10:18 10:19 10:19 10:20 10:20 10:20

11:38 11:38 11:38 11:39 11:39 11:39 11:39 11:40 11:40 11:40 11:40 11:40 11:41 11:41 11:41 11:42 11:42

21:36 21:35 21:34 21:34 21:33 21:32 21:31 21:31 21:30 21:29 21:28 21:27 21:26 21:25 21:24 21:23 21:23

21:20

21:07

21:18

21:13

21:06

21:16

21:05

20:54

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Glatt‫‏‬ LeMehadrin

‫‏‬Where‫‏‬Will‫‏‬You‫‏‬Be‫‏‬This‫‏‬Summer?

Holland‫‏ ‏‬The‫‏‬Pyrenees ‫‏‬Switzerland‫‏‬ Andorra‫‏‬ ‫‏‬Wengen

‫‏‬Beekbergen

Jul. 22 nd – Aug. 20 th, 2013 Jul. 18 th – Aug. 20 th, 2013 Jul. 17 th – Aug. 21 st, 2013

Best‫‏‬Western‫‏‬De‫‏‬Veluwe‫‏‬Hotel ‫‏‬Canillo,‫‏‬Ski‫‏‬Plaza‫‏‬Hotel

Palace‫‏‬Hotel

Located in the heart of ‫‏‬Trips‫ ‏‬to‫ ‏‬Andorra,‫ ‏‬Northern‫ ‏‬The hotel overlooks the Holland, within a reasonable Spain‫‏&‏‬France.‫‏‬The hotel is breathtaking valley and the time to Arnhem, the large located in the center of Canillo beautiful waterfalls at the foot cities and a wide range of and is within driving distance of the Jungfrau Mountain, activities and attractions for of Andorra la Vella which is a great starting point for the entire family. known for its duty free stores fascinating excursions.

+972-3-9050505 tourplus@ tourplus co.il | site: en.tourplus.co.il

H

Lost Lost & & Found Found Kids Corner

It’s been an exhausting holiday for Hershel and he’s lost 20 of his belongings

Can you help him find them throughout the Magazine?

Send in your answers and enter into a draw to win a scooter!

Closing Date: 14th July 2013 Send to:113 Fairview Rd N15,6PS Leah@hamodia.co.uk

Win a SCOOTER !

Directory

directory list Apartments

Grosz Centre - Antwerp

00323-218-6631............................................. 62

Achuza Behar

00972-504181722........... 00972-8804-3036 73

Kays

0208-455 0558................................................ 19

Princess Villas - Tzfas

00972 52 870 3577......................................... 68

Kol Tuv- Butcher - Zurich

00414-4454-1000........................................... 62 Tzimmeren - Tzfas

Kosher Kingdom

00972-469-7103............................................. 67

020-8455 1429................................................ 13 Mendy

020 8958 3444................................................ 16

Camps

Tapuach

Camp Ezra

Camps@ezrayouth.com................................ 78

020 8202 5700................................................ 36

Chaverim

020-8731-9996.................... 07970-026-066 9

Hotels Bayis Bagova

Car Rentals / Services

00414-33332363............................................. 47 Castles Hotel and Car Agency

Castles Hotel and Car Agency

00972-2-538-9911......................................... 30

00972-2-538-9911......................................... 71 Gala Force Shgl

Eldan

020-8951-5727............................................... 72

011-4178-717-0366....................................... 43 Hotel Alpenkarawanserai

Majestic Autos

0333-1232-999............................................... 34-35

00324-8793-8066........................................... 51 Hotel Le Green

Pride Autos

020-8493-7333............................................... 2

00323-3011600............................................... 90 Hotel Metropol

Dairy

0041-81-378-8181......................................... 87

Charedi Dairies

Hilton - Oradea with Winter Club

020 8800 5766................................................ 37

00972-52-870-3577....................................... 73

Disposables Mashers

0161-798-9830............................................... 30 Grocerys & Holiday Supplies

Hotel MMV Club La Flaine France

07917 191 314................................................ 71 Hotel New Solarium - France

0033-781198332.................. 07813-826-113 18 Hotel Terra Nova - D’holydays

B Kosher

0033 139940636............................................. 65

020-8202 1711................................................ 23

Hotels Direct

Carmel

0208 203 4482................................................ 12

020 8211 0007................................................ 6

Kinar Slovenia/Kinar Slovenia

Fein Und Schein - Zuric

00972-46738822............................................. 94

0041-44-241-30-40...... 0041-76-340-74-10 45

Kosher Villas - France

Grocery Shop in Austria -Ran

07806-412-684..................00336-81262626 70

07858-036-185............................................... 65

My Kosher Hotel

00393-381-709221........ 0039-0462-602460 24

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Stubai - Tyrol Austria

0044 78666 29359.......................................... 68 The Golden Tulip - Holland

0032 475 66 15 15.......................................... 45 The Normandie Hotel

01202-552246................................................. 31 Tour Olam - Croatia

020-3239-7272............................................... 55 Tourman

0032-479679987............................................. 70 Dead Sea-Privilege with Winter Club

00972-52-870-3577....................................... 73 Yamor Suites

07968387499.................................................. 30 Nusery Shops Kiddi Centre

0208-809 4251................................................ 40 Phone Rentals Rose Communications

0208-806-6677.................... 0161-792-6600 95 Sheitels

020-8802-0018............................................... 28 Tuv Tam

020-8808-4545............................................... 28 Tours Gesher Tour

00972-3-526-0905....................................A3 3 Glikson Tours

00324- 7340 1520........................................... 60 Hotels Direct

0208 203 4482................................................ 12 Legacy Tours

001-773-583-0590......................................... 87 Tzfas Tours

00972-469-7103............................................. 67 Toy Shops World Of Toys

0208-802 3389................................................ 3 Travel Agencies Feldan Travel

0208-800 3600................................................ 83 Elal

Sheitel Supplies

020-7121-1400............................................... Back

07505-383937................................................. 90

Page

Takeaways & Restaurants

Travel Services Beni Sherut

Fein Und Schein - Zurich

0041-44-241-30-40...... 0041-76-340-74-10 45 Friends of Lubavitch - Scotland

0141-638-6116............................................... 38 Kaifeng

0208-203-7888............................................... 87 Kays Chesnut

0208-458 0011................................................ 19 Peppergrill

00972-52-859-5599....................................... 65 Darkei Noam

0208800 5566................................................. 41 Gaby Burn

0208-202 1112................. 00324-7780-0372 78 Glikson Travel

00324- 7340 1520........................................... 60 Simcha Cars

0208802 1515........................................

66

020-3638 5319 ............................................... 22 Pikanti

020-7502 0187................................................ 22 Pizza Uri

0208-880 8788................................................ 17 Reichs Takeaway

020-8459-2587............................................... 36 Tasti Pizza

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More Frequency, More Choice Twice daily flights from Heathrow Twice daily flights from London Luton

BOOK NOW! With your local travel agent, call EL AL 020 7121 1400 n at i o n a l 96 or go online www.elal.co.uk EXPLORE • MAY 2013

elal.co.uk