Testimonials

Hi Dahlia,

Just a note to thank you for your help in arranging all the details of our tour. We had an excellent trip and things went very smoothly.

I wanted to compliment the staff at the hotel. They were very accommodating and helpful. Allowing us to keep our rooms while we went south for two nights was very appreciated. If you can please convey my thanks and appreciation to the General Manager of the Dan Panorama for me. He was not there when I left.

I also wanted to commend our driver Doron Cohen. He was an excellent driver, careful, friendly and very helpful. I would certainly want him again for my next trip.

Thanks again,

-Rabbi Thaler, March 2010

Dalia,

Arrived home safely, and wanted to drop you a note to say thank you for all you did for us! The suite, the resort at the Dead Sea! All the details, you did a wonderful job! I will probably be planning another trip to Israel in 2012 and of course wouldn't dream of using anyone else but Gil & Kenes!

Thank you!

-Dr. Evon G. Horton, Senior Pastor Brownsville Assembly, Feburary 2010

Dear Susan,

I have been meaning to contact you. We had a wonderful trip. Our guide was terrific. Our group (there were nine of us) was lovely. And we made the right choice of hotels. The King David automatically upgraded us to a deluxe, renovated room that was practically the size of my NYC studio apt.

Thanks for all. Regards,

-Stephanie Morse-Shamosh, Feburary 2010

Dear Susan,

Thank you again for all your help, you've really made my experience in organizing such a large trip easier.

-Moran Barnea, New York Stern University, Feburary 2010

Dear Dubi,

I'm still a bit jet lagged from our trip, but I wanted to write to you and tell you what a fabulous time Margo and I had in Prague. First, both Dana and our guide, Kamilla Keren, were fantastic! We could not have asked for better treatment or a better experience in such an exciting and vibrant city. We thoroughly loved it all. And, the Kempinski hotel was absolutely first rate. My wife's favorite thing in Prague was the heated bathroom floor! Seriously, the hotel was elegant. The service was first-class all the way. And the room (actually an apartment) was spacious, warm and elegant.

And our special trip to Terezin with Irene Ravel was so special and something we will remember all our lives. For such an horrific event, to say it was enjoyable is not right, but it was both emotionally and intellectually challenging and so real - especially with Irene having survived it. I can't comprehend it yet.

And one of my personal highlights was visiting the Lubdowicz palace in the Castle and seeing the original score for Beethoven's Fifth Symphony right next to the original scoring of Mozart's re-arrangement of Handel's Messiah. I must have stared into that case for 30 minutes. One of the most exciting things I've ever seen.

So, thanks again, so much for your guidance and your help.; As you know, we left Prague for Israel and had a great week there, too.

Happy Chanukah and best wishes for a healthy 2010.

-Larry, December 2009

Hi Kathleen,

How are you? Thanks for the wonderful tour of Israel to you, Melissa and Lauren and all at Gil Travel & Kenes. We were really blessed to be in the Bible Land. The bible came alive, it was a wonderful tour that we will always remember. Thanks for your hard work in putting it together.

God Bless & Shalom,

-Sylvia & Geoffrey Lardy, Benny Hinn, November 2009

Your staff performed well, solved problems and deserves praise for a great beginning!

I am aware the tour is not over only beginning, however a good beginning is very important!! I wanted you to know, I may not tell you enough, I do appreciate that you have some of the best staff, and they are truly a pleasure to work with. They see my demanding side, but Know this, I do appreciate what they accomplish in a combined effort.

You should be proud of how they are performing. I am.

-Pastor Larry, Benny Hinn, November 2009

Hi Susan-

It is Monday, 10/26 and the 6 of us are back home. The trip was simply incredible! Everything you promised and more. Our tour guide Dan was wonderful; bright, considerate, and adorable. It was quite an experience. We learned so very much about our homeland and our people! What a country. Thanks- hope to see you again. Oops, almost forgot- the Inbal was beautiful, breakfast incredible and rooms luxurious and spacious.

-Gail Kretchmar, October 2009

Hi Susan!

We had a wonderful time!!! Absolutely wonderful! It was strenuous, but we managed fine. We enjoyed everything we saw and learned so much!! Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and so passionate about Israel and its people and the wars it has fought. Rita and I were very impressed! We were tired at the end of the day, but enjoyed all we learned and saw.

-Judy Sterner, October 2009

Hi Fred,

I am sorry I did not have an opportunity to reach out to (you) sooner. As Karen mentioned in her email, the trip was truly amazing, and will, for sure, be a cherished memory. I want to thank you for all of your hard work in helping make the trip an adventure of a lifetime. Please don't hesitate to use me as a reference for future trips or our guide.

Again, I want to share with you my deep appreciation of all of your efforts. Shana Tova!

Best Regards,

-Philip Rosenberg, September 2009

Hi Fred,

We had an absolutely wonderful trip to Israel, and we wanted to thank you for all you did to make it happen. It was my third trip to Israel, and I have to say it was the best. Our guide, Yaniv Bar, was terrific in every way. He had a vast array of knowledge ranging from natural history, to comparative religion, to ancient and recent history, to art, and everything in between. He was also sensitive to the needs of the group and the individuals in it. Thanks to you, the itinerary's mix of educational sites with other activities was just right.

Thank you again.

-Karen Lipson, September 2009

Donna,

The trip was great! It really exceeded my expectations due in large part to Amir Orly. He was extremely knowledgeable, opinionated (which Israeli is not) in a good way and very well versed about the sites we visited. He was always very punctual, had a good sense of humor and seemed to know people virtually everywhere we went.

The itinerary worked out well as Amir switched around what day we went to Safed so that it was not on Shabbat when everything would have been closed. It was that kind of thoughtful and proactive action that made him so good. He is also a safe driver and has a great knack for finding good parking spaces.

So thank you to yourself, Gil Travel and big props to Amir. I highly recommend him and ask that you pass this rave review up the lines to your management team.

Regards,

-Joe Margoshes, August 2009

Shirley,

You probably don't remember me but you helped me organize a family trip to Israel, sending my girls first and then following with my husband. Thank you so much for all your help. Flying out of Philadelphia was a complete pleasure; the car you helped us rent was perfect and our entire trip was wonderful.

Thanks so much!

Shabbat Shalom

-Gari, August 2009

Miriam Osman,

The trip we just took was great. I want to thank both of you for your help.

The touring, guides, meetings with the Jewish Community, all were extremely interesting and worthwhile.

-Stanley Weinstein, Board of Trustees, UJC, August 2009

Dear Iris and Igal,

On behalf of Maccabi USA, please accept my sincerest thanks for serving as our Official Travel Agents for the MUSA Mission and for Team USA for the 18th Maccabiah Games.

This Mission was truly exceptional- perhaps the best we've designed and executed. Our special events- the Shabbat Dinner, the B'nai Mitzvah, the Hilton dinner and the tours were outstanding. The Party at Arca was spectacular. These events had your special touch, Iris- warmth, charm, grace, impeccable good taste and attention to the smallest detail. Your dedication and commitment to providing the Mission with the best possible Maccabiah experience were evident throughout the entire trip.

Igal, I know how much time and effort you spent on arranging the flights for the Team and the Mission. Without the El AL Charter, it could have been a nightmare. But as always, you miraculously managed to get everyone to Israel and back. You are wonderful.

Susan was a fabulous asset to us, from working on the Mission brochure, to dealing with making arrangements for the Mission participants, to being a hard working member of our Team in Israel. I will send her a note to thank her.

You two incredible people played a critical and vital role in the success of the Mission. I know you both love this organization and that love is manifested in everything you do for us.

It has truly been my privilege and a delight to have worked with you on this project. You are very special to me and I am honored to call my friends.

With love and Maccabi thanks,

-Toni Wortman, President Maccabi USA, July 2009

Dear Susan,

I hope you've had a chance to rest and recuperate after our trip to Israel.

Thank you for all the work you did on the Mission. You were a fabulous asset, from working on the Brochure, to dealing with all the Mission participants and their special needs to being a hard working member of the MUSA Team in Israel.

I think this may have been the best Mission ever. The Missionaries seemed very happy and enjoyed the experience. Thank you for everything you did to make this Mission a great success. It is truly appreciated.

With love,

-Toni Wortman, President Maccabi USA, July 2009

Susan,

I just wanted to let you know that we had a fantastic trip to Israel, and everything worked out perfectly.

Thanks for all your help.

-Susan Schwartz, July 2009

Dear Igal,

Thank you for partnering me with Debbe Mays to handle the momentous task of arranging the airline travel for the delegation of European Imams and Rabbis. The mission was a tremendous success, thanks in great part to Debbe's hard work and, most importantly, patience.

We look forward to a continued relationship with Gil Travel.

All the best,

-Amanda Ritz, Director of Programs, The Foundation for Ethnic Understanding, July 2009

Susan,

I think the mission was a huge success. People seemed happy and you contributed greatly to that good mood.

I hope you can take some time off to rest!

Love,

-Toni, President of Maccabi USA, July 2009

Thanks Susan!!! And thanks for making our trip such an amazing, once-in-a-lifetime experience!!! We loved everything about our trip and are knocking around here somewhat lonely this week.....it was wonderful!!!!!!

-Dana, July 2009

Dear Fred,

Been back home for nearly 2 weeks now, and just thought I'd take this opportunity to thank you and Gil Travel for an absolutely, positively, fantastic vacation. Allan and I were extremely well looked after from beginning till end. When we arrived there was an information pack waiting for us from Simone Farbstein, with all of our transfers and pick-ups detailed. It was a good last minute idea, to fly back from Eilat to Tel Aviv, at the end of our trip, so we could enjoy the last two days with a bit of leisure and shopping time in Tel Aviv. Simone was very helpful and attentive, whenever we needed any information or advice.

We had a brilliant and very experienced tour guide, Shlomo Eyal, from Rent-A-Guide, who looked after the 36 participants expertly. It was a lovely group of couple and we made many good friends. We felt safe and secure at all times, and I can't believe how much ground we covered. Despite the extreme heat, it was amazing. I would have no hesitation in recommending this tour to my family and friends and hope to go back in the near future, preferably, in the cooler months, with my husband Irving.

Being regular travelers, Irving and I would be happy to use your company again in the near future and wish you all the best. We are taking a cruise early in the new year from Florida to San Diego on the Celebrity cruise line, and would be happy to hear from you if you have any deals going on this line or any others.

Kind regards,

-Goldie Birch, July 2009

Dear Susan,

Just wanted to let you know again what a fabulous time we had being part of the Maccabia events. You, especially, did a wonderful job of creating an atmosphere of ease in taking care of everyone's needs. You paid attention to every detail in planning the trip even before we left. And, when we got there, we could experience the fruits of your labor.

Thanks again for all of your help and we look forward to planning more with you in the future.

-Joan and Chuck, July 2009

Thanks, Susan!

Got to tell ya, our guide, Noha Sadky, was FABULOUS!! Anyone you send to Cairo should request her specifically from RL Tours. The rest of the tour company was also excellent. They were always early and took care of everything. Noha is just the best tour guide we have ever had. And we have had many tour guides! Lucy got a little sick to her stomach and Noha made sure that we got some Pepto Bismol to take care of it. She is extremely knowledgeable about Egypt and the history of Egypt. She loves what she is doing and it shows! She just radiates and makes everyone feel included. We linked up with Arnold Davidson on the tour and Noha made everyone feel like family during our touring!!!

Thank you for setting up such a wonderful tour for us. We had a wonderful tome in Israel and on Egypt!!!

Best,

-Lynn and David Meyer, July 2009

Now that we are back from Israel, it is nice to look back on a hugely successful trip. The Maccabiah was a wonderful experience for everyone involved- from athletes to Mission participants.

It took a team effort to make it the success that it was. Please know how appreciative I am, and the organization is, for all your hard work that went into it.. There were some special times created which will lead to wonderful memories created.

Thank you for the role that you played in our success. The staff of Gil and Kenes did a wonderful job; our staff and volunteers worked tirelessly to get the job done. The partnership and cooperative attitude were key.

The feedback we have received has been exceptional- it is always nice to hear that our collective hard work paid off- big time...

Toda raba on behalf of everyone who benefited from your efforts.

-Jed Margolis, Executive Director Maccabi USA, July 2009

Hi Susan,

Hope you had a wonderful time in Israel. We had the most awesome trip. I wanted to thank you for all your help in planning this trip. The short time we were on the mission was great and the hotels all worked out nicely. Thanks again.

-Nancy Chase, Maccabi USA Mission, July 2009

Miriam,

There are no words to describe our gratitude for the trip you planned for Ira and I. We adored all three guides and are so appreciative of their knowledge and experiences they shared with us. Your guidance and help in planning are greatly appreciated. It truly was an emotional, educational emersion for both of us. Thank you, thank you. It is amazing how everything from the drivers to the hotels to the guides were all so fabulous and we had no problems. Just amazing.

Hope you are having a nice summer.

Fondly,

-Jane and Ira, July 2009

Susan,

First, thank you for making out trip to the Maccabiah Games and the Holy Land a FABULOUS experience. Second, everything has worked out beautifully on the Cairo trip. Noa is our fabulous guide.

Thanks, hope you got home just fine!

PS. The Sofitel is GREAT!!

-Lynn and David Meyer, July 2009

Fred,

We're back from the trip to Israel with our 2 grandchildren. Wanted to let me know that we had a terrific time. The children enjoyed the trip and my wife and I had a fine time. The Gil Travel representatives in Israel were very helpful on the two occasions we had to call them. All in all a Great trip.

Thanks for all of your help.

-Ted David, July 2009

Dear Naomi,

Well, its now some time since we have returned from our trip in Israel and though it was an exhausting trip we must say it was pleasant and fascinating. The group of people we found ourselves with were from all different areas of the US and Canada. They were all wonderful and a pleasure to be with. As for our guide, his name is Israel Kantor and he was very helpful and knowledgeable and made our different tours around the country a real experience to cherish. Since Edith and I were the oldest couple within the group, he always made special efforts to make us feel comfortable and at one time when the walking was very difficult, he even made arrangements to get us a jeep to ride in while all younger people were walking. Additionally the driver of the bus whose name was Jossi [do not know his last name] was also at all times very helpful and accommodating. In closing we want to thank you Naomi and Gil Tours for having made this pleasant trip for us. Again thanks.

-From Edith and Max Leffelholz, July 2009

Igal,

I can't thank Shirley enough for making this happen. She has worked so hard on this group at times dealing with some challenging situations, I am thankful that she was able to make this work for someone who is truly grateful and appreciative. Thanks again to you and your staff and especially Shirley for dealing with all our challenges so successfully.

-Pam Pearlmutter, Philadelphia Federation, July 2009

Hi Susan,

The trip was incredible. Everything was well organized. Right now I can't think of anything that can be done to improve....as all went smooth.

Thanks for your help in planning our trip.

-Sharon & Mort Levin, July 2009

Dear Shirley,

Everything worked great! Home in Philly now.

-Mark Fishman, Philadelphia Federation Campaign Chairman, July 2009

Naomi,

Thank you! Your help at the group flight was instrumental and critical to its success.

Thank you! You are awesome. Looking forward to seeing you (hopefully) at the charter flight next week.

-Rabbi Yehoshua Fass, Founder & Executive Director Nefesh B'Nefesh, June 2009

The trip was fantastic, enjoyed by all, and worth the wait! Thanks for all your help! I would highly recommend Yossi Granit to my friends, and future tours.

Thanks again!

-Anna Boni, June 2009

Iris, Igal and Susan,

I just received the Mission info packet. It is really terrific! Lots of good information, easy to read and great pointers for traveling and sightseeing in Israel.

Thanks so much for all your hard work- it really shows.

Love you all,

-Toni, June 2009

Naomi,

Just a brief note to thank you for all the help in making arrangements for this wonderful trip. Julie and I had a great time and hopefully it will translate into business opportunities as well.

Your local agent was very helpful in getting my stay extended at the David Citadel. My thanks to her as well.

When you have a chance, can you send an additional invoice for the added charges for the extended stay I Jerusalem?

Best regards,

-Paul, June 2009

Susan,

It was fabulous!!!

We had a great time; really liked our guide Jacky Jager -- he was excellent!

I loved the experience even more than I thought I would -- pace was hectic but ok; glad we did everything we did; would have liked more time in Jerusalem.

Thanks again for all your help and suggestions.

-Jacki, June 2009

Lauren,

You are the best! You just made my day! Gil travel has been great and your website and process is very good.

Thanks again so much! Stay in touch!

-Karen Rukin, Marvel Consultants, Inc., May 2009

Channy,

Thank you for all the work you did to pull this mission together. I have never had the chance to work with you before, and this was a fantastic experience. You really took care of all the details and ensured that the program and logistics ran smoothly. To top it all off, I don't think I have ever laughed as hard as I did, sitting in the Hotel Europe lounge with you, Tikva and Yehuda. Sign me up for next year!

Thanks again, it was great and a lot of fun. see you in Jerusalem!

-Miryam Rosenzweig, Associate Director, National Young Leadership,
United Jewish Communities, May 2009

Sharon,

Thank you thank you for a good tour!

The arrangements were excellent and Marion and I had a marvelous time! It was good to meet you and we were impressed with how you made it all look smooth and easy (very professional). Laura was a great guide, she had history bits I had not heard before and her presentation blending recent history with the Christian history across all the sites was excellent. If Gil travel has a comment box for the guides please pass on my triple AAA + for her.

I hope our paths will cross again Sharon.

-Bonnie Clark, May 2009

Dear Igal,

Thank you and all of the Gil Travel team for a job well done!

It is with great pleasure that I tell you the April tour was a very successful event. I also want to thank you for sending Sharon Cheeseman along on the tour. She was an integral part of the tours success and her presence and service provided to our top partners was very valuable. She handled several situations that could have escalated into problems and made every thing go very smoothly. She is a great asset to have with us on any of our tours and I appreciate you sending her to take care of this small yet select group we had on tour this April. I also feel the experience she gained in being able to actually tour with the group and visit the sights will benefit all of your clients. Our partners really enjoyed having her along and Kurt and I truly thank you for sending her.

Blessings,

-Pastor Larry, May 2009

Shirley,

It was an absolute pleasure working with you. You made everything seem so easy. Wishing you continued success in everything you do. And again, thank you so much for your kindness & great professionalism.

-Rita Blockton, WFHA, May 2009

Dear Donna:

This letter is really overdue, for which I apologize. I cannot thank you enough for all of your hard work, efforts, reassuring words, enthusiasm and support for Main Line Reform Temple's trip to Israel last December. It was an incredible experience, one frankly, that will be difficult to top. Everything about the trip was just perfect. People had phenomenal experiences. Going with such a large group, while at first a bit anxiety provoking, turned out to be wonderful beyond my possible imaginings. It allowed for us to be able to create multiple experiences simultaneously and created a sense of community that has begun to transform the Congregation now that we have returned. Our guides were great, the accommodations perfect in every regard. There is literally almost nothing I would do to change our itinerary in the future. None of this could have happened without you and all of your hard work, efforts and support.

I am certain I was not always the easiest client. I appreciate your patience and all you did to help create the most incredible trip I have ever been blessed to lead. I hope you'll have the opportunity to work on other trips to Israel and the Jewish world for many, many years to come. Again, thank you again for all of your efforts and help.

With every best wish,

L'shalom,

-Rabbi David E. Straus, April 2009

Hi Naomi,

It's very hard to put in words!!! It was absolutely magical! Not one single thing went wrong. From the time we left home to the time we returned home. The taxi driver was waiting for us when we arrived. He was very nice. We got the best exchange rate in the airport for money. The Dan Ponorama was wonderful. The breakfast was to die for!!! The service was excellent and the room was lovely. The bus was gorgeous. The driver- Yossi was wonderful.

The tour guide was outstanding- Shlomo. He really made the trip. As a matter of fact I brought his card to recommend top friends. He squeezed in lots of extras. The whole bus got along to well. We all bonded and everyone wanted to be at the bar Mitzvah. I am so glad we did not go on a "Bar Mitzvah" tour with other kids. It made it really special for everyone. Shlomo re-arranged things so the ceremony was part of the tour. It was magical. The rabbi was good. Other Bar Mitzvah kids were entering at the same time and they played music to accompany them to the wall. It was like a dream. Ben bonded with everyone and had a hard time choosing, but he asked three members of the group and the tour guide to read parts. Then we went to the Western wall. It was actually better to have the ceremony at the Davidson center,-not crowded. When Ben was at the wall, a rabbi helped him try on the tallit and say the prayers. A lot of firsts for him. First time touching a Torah, riding a camel etc.

The Kibbutz hotel was not as nice. Our room was not so clean. Other people said their room was fine. Food was OK. Sauna was broken. Pool was not worth going in. We were too tired to stay up to attend the lecture about the kibbutz. All in all, we didn't get anything out of staying there. It would have been better to stay in a nicer place and visit a Kibbutz to learn about it.

The Dan P in Jerusalem was nice too. Not as nice as Tel Aviv, but still very nice. Taxi driver was right on time and very nice. Your papers were very helpful. Plan to return as soon as possible. I want to live there. It was very hard saying good bye to everyone. We are keeping in touch and sharing photos on line. The Dead Sea was very nice too. We only felt un-safe once and that was when we got lost in Jaffa, but we were on our own at that point. The jeep guides were terrific too. We chased a wild boar in the jeep. What fun!!

Thank you so much for the time of our lives!!I am recommending you to all the families at my Hebrew School!!!!

Toda

-Susan, April 2009

Dear Iris and Igal:

Maccabi USA is a family, bound together by a love of sports, kids and Israel. You are valued members of our Maccabi Family, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for all you have done in support of our organization.

As members of our President's Circle, you have made an investment in the future of Maccabi USA and helped to ensure that the next generations of Jewish athletes will have the opportunity to experience the Magic of the Maccabiah in Israel. We greatly appreciate Gil Travel's recent contribution to our 60th Anniversary Gala on April 22nd. Please accept our gratitude and appreciation for your generosity and for your commitment to our Mission.

Gil Travel, the Offical Travel Agency of Maccabi USA/Sports for Israel, has been our partner in designing, planning and executing our Missions to Israel, Australia, Mexico, Chile and Argentina. Your attention to details, your commitment to excellence and your dedication to MUSA have resulted in the very best Mission programs possible.

Working with you has been a wonderful experience for us and for the leadership of MUSA. We are proud of our association with Gil Travel, and we look forward to working with you and the staff of Gil Travel to make the 18th MUSA Mission an extraordinary and unforgettable experience.

Toda Raba, Gracias and Thank You for all your efforts on our behalf.

With warm Maccabi regards,

-Toni Wortman, President & Robert E. Spivak, Chairman, April 2009

Hi Susan,

Yes, just got home. All went great and my son and I had an absolutely super time. Susan, you did a great job and gained a good future customer.

Many thanks again and have a wonderful Passover.

Fondly,

- Lester, April 2009

Susan,

You have been most professional and helpful to us in planning our Israel trip. Thank you!

To attempt to show our appreciation, I will send info of a couple who expressed interest in a similar trip.

-Sandy Goodman, April 2009

I would like to add my thanks and appreciation to Kim, Federation and Gil Travel for setting up a wonderful Israeli experience. It was my first visit to Israel. My expected perceptions were either altered or enforced so that I came home with a much more informed concept of and appreciation for Israel, its people, its history and our identity as Jews. I learned a great deal, and had fun doing it.

I am sure we are spoiled by having had such a professional staff; all others will be measured by this group. Amir is highly educated, a teacher, opinionated so it was a challenge talking with him, open and patient to answer so many questions (some of them more than once, some many times more). He made Israel real for me by relating it to his and his family's life experiences.

Claudia Shapiro is thoughtful and caring. She provided an aura of concern that made my Claudia and me feel that Federation and Gil had everything in control.

Thanks to all who made this trip so special for Claudia and me. In a few days we will once again say, and truly understand it, "Next year in Jerusalem."

Shalom. Lila tov. (I even learned some Hebrew!)

-Shelly, UJA Federation of New York, March 2009

Dear Channy,

We are fortunate indeed to have had you as a wonderful partner once again in planning the Conference of Presidents visit to Rome. We truly appreciate your personal commitment, deep reservoir of experience and ability to anticipate and respond calmly and quickly to a myriad of specific and often complicated requirements. You have our gratitude for your recommendations, flexibility, professionalism and personal attention to the delegation's needs.

The reaction to the trip has been excellent and you have our sincerest thanks for all you did to make this important gathering a great success. We hope there will be opportunities for us to work together again in the future.

With best wishes and warmest regards,

Sincerely,

- Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organization: Alan P. Solow- Chairman,
Malcolm Hoenlein- Executive Vice Chairman, Carolyn Greene- Associate Executive Director, March 2009

Channy Greenberg, VP Gil Travel,
visit with Pope Benedict the XVI

Our trip was absolutely amazing! Our accommodations were lovely in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem (we received an early check in at the hotel in Tel Aviv as you had arranged.) All flights and transfers ran according to schedule, the weather couldn't have been better, and the tour itinerary was beyond belief. I just wish I had documented our trip better ...we saw so many incredible sights and sounds that it is impossible to remember everything. It is truly an experience we will always cherish and I am so thankful we did it now while we had the energy and stamina to keep up the pace. Our tour guide, Meir, a former tank commander, was the embodiment of the spirit of Israel and he kept us moving from morning until night.

We appreciate your role and that of Gil Travel in making all aspects of this trip such a wonderful experience.

-Susan, February 2009

You are amazing. Thank you sooooooo much for the great work you did on our flights for the mission. We had a Mission leadership meeting last night and Dana sang your praises. I piped in mine also. You are the BEST!!!!!!!!!

Have a nice weekend.

-Betty Chrustowski, January 2009
Vice President, Bruce Gendelman Co, Inc.

It's hard to express just how much fun the students and I had during our trip to Israel AND how much we learned. We are so thankful for the experience and for everything you did to make it happen. We felt supported and looked after at all times, and your generosity and knowledge provided us with amazing opportunities. Thank you very much.

Dubi and Laura, the organization you provided, the hotels you selected, and the support you gave were perfect. Everything happened as planned and there were no problems or complaints. Tikva, what can I say except that you are the best archaeologist and guide in Israel! And, Tamar and Caroline, our visit to the University was the highlight of our stay in Haifa. The lecture by Prof. Neeman was extremely informative and your students were so generous to take us for a walk on the Carmel Mountain. Please thank them again for us too.

I hope to bring another group next year, so I'll look forward to working with you all again. Take care and thank you again for everything. I'll be in touch!

With warmest regards,

-Dr. Helen Gaudette, January 2009
Director of College Preparatory Programs
Queens College, CUNY

I cannot tell you how pleased I was with how well organized and efficient today was. Everyone brought their "A" game and we made a great impression on our participants. Plus the feedback from the pros El Al and Gil Travel personnel was very positive.

Beyond our great team of Mission Staff and Clergy; I want to thank Igal and Jeanne from Gil Travel for their efforts and I want to let Yoav Weiss know that his folks from El Al were fantastic. Our hosts at Shir Shalom bent over backward to make things go seamlessly and the crew from Fresh Air made luggage a breeze.

Thanks Again,

-Scott Kaufman, December 2008
Director: Israelsixty & Family Mission
Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit

I had the most amazing time on my trip to Israel. I returned to the U.S. on November 2nd and can't wait to return. I wanted you to know that the Jewish Heritage Tour that you arranged for me was an amazing experience. The guide, Gadi Singer and Moshe, the driver of the tour, both were exceptional. It was a memorable trip.

I fell in love with Israel and the amazing people I met. As the daughter of a Holocaust survivor and as a former "Orthodox Jew", it was an intersection of many worlds for me and was a transformative experience. I met my cousin, Lee Wolfe, for the first time; he had emigrated from Toronto to Israel eight years ago and we had an incredible connection. If this were a different chapter of my life, I would also make aliyah.

Thank you for your role in making it happen. Look forward to hearing from you. Happy Chanukah!

-Pearl, December 2008

Thanks so much for all of your help and guidance, we are still talking about the wonderful trip and memories. We were able to contact you with questions, requests and concerns throughout our trip and you responded quickly and efficiently. I appreciated your attention to every detail.

All my best,

-Tracey, December 2008

Many, many thanks for all of your hard work on our behalf ...our trip to Israel was made all that much better because of what you added. We and our mothers were thrilled with a memory of a lifetime when we had our Bat Mitzvah ceremony on Mount Scopus. Our trip to Eilat, Jordan, and the Negev was also amazing. All details and your accessibility on a moment's notice was very much appreciated.

You can be sure that we will recommend Gil Travel to all of our friends who will be traveling to Israel.

With all best wishes,

-Susanna, December 2008

My wife, Marissa, and I just returned from Friendship Journey Israel at 60, led as you know by Rabbi Miller, Reverend Hurley and Ronne and Donald Hess.

But conceived and facilitated by leader, Karen Allen. Karen is a terrific resource and a jewel. Her planning was comprehensive and her execution was flawless.

We would travel with her anywhere at any time with a comfort and understanding that we are in the most competent travel hands available. You are lucky to have her as a resource and we are lucky to have her as a friend.

Yours Very Truly,

-Harold I. Apolinsky, November 2008
Friendship Journey Israel at 60

Thank you so much for your incredible support!!! I greatly appreciate all you have done and I will strongly recommend Gil travel and your excellent customer service to my many friends and family in the Philadelphia region!

Thank you for everything and I greatly look forward to hearing from you soon!!!

Very Truly Yours,

-Ethan Rodan, November 2008

The tour was the best I have ever made. A lot of inspirations and knowledge to take back home....new friends made and all that. I saw that my account has been credited by the additional money paid for a single room at the NOVOTEL in Jerusalem. I must say that I am highly impressed that GIL Travel keeps to their word and ensuring that all went well. Please extend my appreciation to your management. And I want to thank you in particular for the role you played in getting me on the tour and all the follow ups.

Sincerely,

-Jerry, September 2008

I wanted to say, one more time for the record, FRANCOIS IS AMAZING! Honestly, I have never worked with someone who is always willing to go above and beyond like he does. I know I offer total chaos and craziness, but Francois never lets that get to him. He always stays calm and professional and gets the job done better than anyone else!

Thanks,

-Melissa Chapman, September 2008
Director of Missions and Events, Jewish United Fund

I am writing to compliment one of your associates, Fred Bomze, who assisted me with my complicated travel arrangements in Israel. When I first spoke with him, about 10 days before my trip last month, I was very upset since I had planned on having friends take care of my touring plans while in Israel. They all backed out or ended up not being available to run me around the country. Fred worked with the flight I already had booked and my first part of the trip which was planned and hooked me into a tour that fit my schedule perfectly. He was very creative, very detailed-oriented and did the whole thing quickly enough to avoid my total panic! He responded to all my hysterical calls, made connections for transfers, sent me emails in Israel to confirm everything, provided comprehensive materials in a timely way and even called to check the success of my trip when I returned and was exceptionally professional in everything he did. I would totally recommend him to anybody (already have) and was extremely pleased with the service he provided. Please give him a copy of this letter. Thank you again for having such a wonderful staff member on your team.

Sincerely,

-Barbara Levitt, August 2008

Ralph and I are resting up from our amazing, magical trip to Italy. Thank you so much for your hard work planning such a perfect vacation for us. The cruise was absolutely enchanting, of course! In fact, I loved it so much that I was a bit apprehensive about being on our own, but I needn't have worried. Both the Hotel Quirinale in Rome and the Hotel Laurus in Florence were superior-we especially loved Florence and our excursion to Siena and San Gimignano. I hope your summer is going well. I'm sure that lots and lots of your clients are enjoying their Armanda-planned trips, but NONE will have any memories better than those Ralph and I will cherish forever. We hope to lean on you again in the future. Thank you!

-Polley Maltese, July 2008

What an amazing trip our family had. Thank you so much for your help in putting it together. Your advise, insight, and assistance was really invaluable. We had an opportunity to see and experience so much without feeling rushed or not enough time at each point. I know how diligently you worked with cookie to create a trip that would be perfect for our children's first vista to Israel. It truly was a memorable experience for them and really hit on all the things that would be interesting to them and important for us to share. Thanks for working to make this trip such a memorable experience.

-Jason Bacharach, July 2008

I spoke with Paul Hogle today who just returned from his trip. They had an incredible experience in Poland and everything went perfectly. Thank you for your help with pulling it together.

-Marc, July 2008

There are not enough words to thank you for all your on-going patience, expertise, advise, planning, and personal attention. You made me feel like I was your absolute MOST important "client." When, in indeed, we were only six. You cannot begin to imagine the contribution you have made towards our children's connection and understanding with Israel. I couldn't begin to articulate all of this regarding our two grandchildren who were with us. Am Yisrael Chai. GrandMa Cookie is already planning our next trip. Hurray to Susan Blum.

With sincere appreciation,

-Cookie Segal Wertheimer, July 2008

Dubi, before our trip, when I inquired about our guide, you responded simply: "He's the best". I got the impression that you had never met him, but I believed you. Now, safely home, I want to tell you that you were right, Dubi. I can't imagine that he's not the best.

He was the best for us, because of his knowledge of history, his ability as a teacher, and his willingness to discuss the current political situation. He was best for us, because of his ambition to have us use our time wisely to see every important site and, at the same time, his ability and willingness to recognize and ease off when we were tired and needed less serious activity. He was best for us because of the way he engaged both of our children, Solomon and Sadie, plying them with questions, encouraging them to see and analyze their observations. He was great for us, because of his willingness to laugh.

Dani Weiss was great for us, the best, and I would recommend him to any group, small or large. When he finally left us after eight days, the most telling thing was that we missed him. He had become our friend.

Our best to both of you and heartfelt thanks for helping to give each member of our family a trip we will never forget. We will be back

Very truly yours,

-Ron and Hannah Berenson, July 2008

-Jamie, July 2008

-Kay Douglass Drinkwater,
Director of Operations and Business Affairs, VCU, July 2008

Just a quick update our trip was amazing.  We had a great time and enjoyed everything.  The last private tour with Miri Lowenberg we cancelled, we were just too exhausted.  However I told Miri that I still wanted to pay her for the last day.  We also gave her a nice tip because she was just "excellent".

You did a great job with everything.  I am really happy that we had a greeter at the airport and a van service. 

I cannot wait to go back to Israel.

Thanks much for all your help.

Regards,

-Jerry Kaufman, June 2008

I just want to thank you for helping me set up such a beautiful trip.  Things could not have gone any more smoothly than they did.  All drivers and the guide were on-time, professional, kind, helpful, and informative.  We enjoyed each and every activity (although we couldn't get ourselves out of Yad Vashem on time to get to the rabbinical tunnel tours-we'll have to do that next time). My younger son will soon turn 11.  We will most likely do his bar mitzvah in Israel during the summer of 2010.  If we do, you will definitely hear from us to help set up that trip as well.

With great appreciation,

-Sue Mirman, July 2008

We loved Atlantis, especially staying at The Cove. Booking the restaurants, spa appointments and dolphin swim ahead of time was very helpful. The staff at the resort was exceptionally nice. The spa and gym were very nice, also. The pools and water slides were a lot of fun. There was never a problem finding a chair by the beach or pool at The Cove. I would recommend that you request a full size balcony when booking in The Cove. Some of the rooms only have a french style balcony that can't accommodate chairs. Otherwise, everything was exceptional at Atlantis/The Cove, even the airport transfers were perfect! Thank-you, again, for taking care of every detail as exceptionally as always for us!!

Warmest regards,

-Lisa Glassner, June 2008

We just got back from our wonderful trip to Israel. Eliot and I just wanted to thank for helping to make it so special. You did a great job. It was a most memorable trip.

Thanks for everything,

-Sue, June 2008

We just got back from our trip yesterday and want to thank you for arranging an absolutely fantastic first visit to Israel (it won't be our last!).

From the packed itinerary to terrific hotels and other details (car transfer, Hod Hotel), everything was fabulous and came off without a hitch.

Marty and I can't stop talking about how rewarding it was to see firsthand all that Israel has accomplished in 60 years...it is truly amazing. We also left with a much heightened awareness of the political challenges Israelis face daily from their neighbors.

We also wanted to tell you how much we enjoyed our guide, Yitzhak Dassa. From the first 20 minutes we met him, we knew that he would enrich our experience in countless ways. Yitzhak is warm, wise, very knowledgeable and above all, a wonderful ambassador of his country. He is imbued with the deep Zionist spirit that comes from his Israeli family heritage, a spirit that rubs off on his clients. He regaled us with the history and Biblical stories of each stop we made and took us off the beaten path several times to show us areas and special experiences that weren't on the itinerary. He was also a great friend throughout the week....finding local neighborhood places to sample delicious falafel and hummus, narrowing down great shopping choices and keeping us extremely busy (we were up every day no later than 6:30 for a very full day with him!) and laughing (with his many jokes and anecdotes of life as an Israeli tour guide). We knew Israel would be great, but Yitzhak made it a trip of a lifetime for us!

Thanks again, Fred!

-Rise & Marty Mattler

Just wanted to tell you what a wonderful time bob and I had on our trip. It was everything and more. We can't wait to go back. Our guide was great and the people we met we hope will be lifetime friends. You made the plans for our trip easy and you were extremely helpful in everyway. We will be looking forward to working with you again.

Thank you and chag sameach.

-Jill and Bob Klein, April 2008

I just want to express my sincere gratitude for Yafit Hadria and her dedication to her work. We were not the easiest of customers, but all along the way Yafit was competent and quick to respond to any concerns. She was by far the best part of the Birthright planning process.

-Uri, April 2008

-Marilyn Wolfe, April 2008

-Cheryl Cutrona, Esq., "JUST Listening in Israel" Trip Coordinator,
Executive Director of the Mediation Program, April 2008

Thanks for all your help! Happy to share some of our favorites any time. Stayed 8 days in Haifa and particularly loved Ein Hod and Rosh Pinna the artist towns with great food and beauty. Also the hot springs Hamat Hader near the Kinneret. And the tayelt going toward the port in Tel Aviv on Shabbat where people eat out in fabulous brunch cafes and do folk dances from 11-4! Plus many kinds of hummous every day with great toppings.

-Naomi and Jerry, April 2008

The group got along famously, and had a spectacular time. They were equally amazed, and impressed with JNF/KKL. Each was solicited--all but one made a gift (in 2 cases it was the first gift to JNF) directly due to the mission--and that 1 who did not, already made an '08 gift in the system.

I want to Thank Andy and Liat for making the time to be with this mission. It is exactly your connection with the missions that makes the visits more meaningful and have that lasting impact that is so necessary to spread the word about JNF /KKL. Along with the places they visit and facts that they learn--it is also the PEOPLE they meet that gets talked about for a long time afterwards. This is the ultimate goal of these missions (in addition to fundraising)--to be talked about! And because of your influence, efforts and participation I know that Central Jersey, South Jersey, Seattle, and Long Island will soon be buzzing with JNF/KKL!!

Please make note to include the Etzel Museum on as many missions as possible--and meet with Yoshi to tell the story--plan solicitations around this visit--it is THAT good--mostly because it is unexpected, and NO ONE knows about it. Thanks to Susan's recommendation we were all in awe of this inspirational and heroic story. A must see.

Zelig--first MAZEL TOV--you know he came to speak to the group even though his daughter just had his 11th grandchild!! Zelig always manages to make his mark, and strongly affect everyone in a room--and this group was no different. Bob is most appreciative, as I am, of Zelig making himself available to get the group talking and sharing.

Hannah, thanks for managing all of us, and enabling us to accomplish what was a truly valuable, and fruitful experience for everyone on the mission. I may have left something out--but just know that there were no issues or complaints from the participants, and "it's all good".

-Lynn Norton Robins, Regional Director, April 2008

-Gayle, Kate and Hannah Kastenbaum, April 2008

We are back from our mission to Poland, Hungary and Germany and our entire group felt we "hit a home run" this time.

Our group proved to be particularly congenial..most were veteran URJ board members (and spouses) but there was a nice mix of some newer folks as well. Our scholar-in-residence, Paul Liptz who joined us from Jerusalem added incredible depth to the experience as a very talented and brilliant social historian fully familiar with each of those communities and, even more, he is blessed with a great gift of pedagogy mixed with personality and humor.

More than that, though, I am really grateful for all that Miriam did, not only in advance of the mission but her presence with us helped to smooth the way over and over again..and she did so with her ever-present smile and unfailing competence! It was a blessing to have her along and to do some advance work a few days before our group arrived. Thank you for making it possible for her to join us. She is a credit to Gil Travel and a fine representative of your company..and, as a bonus, we became good friends as a result of this process!

I trust that you and your family are well and in good spirits..and I send my best wishes for a zissen Pesach!

- Rabbi Lennard Thal, Senior Vice President, Union for Reform Judaism, April 2008

- Jay H. Geller, April 2008

- Melissa C. Chapman, Director of Missions and Events, Jewish United Fund, March 2008

I just wanted to let you know that our trip was absolutely wonderful. Every contact and pickup was done perfectly. We had no problems whatsoever and believe me, we will highly recommend this tour to others.

Our guides in Israel, Gadi and Tomer were both great.

Thanks again.

- Dennis Danziger, March 2008

Wow, what an amazing trip! We had a marvelous time. All was perfect: the weather, the flight and the experience. The tour was very comprehensive and we saw and learned so much. Our guide was fine and went out of his way to provide local color and experience. The hotels were great. We really enjoyed the Inbal - it's beautiful!

Thanks for all of your planning; you did a fantastic job and gave us a memorable trip.

Thanks again, Fred, for everything. I'll be recommending you to anyone planning a trip!

- Doris Leisawitz, March 2008

- Lori Schwartz and David Solivan, Nueva Esperanza Academy, March 2008

Carmelo was wonderful and exactly what we needed- 4 days of doing nothing except reading, napping and eating. Loved the 4 Seasons bungalow and the terrific service and Spa. The transfers were perfect.

As always, your advice is priceless and greatly appreciated.

- Toni Wortman, President,Maccabi USA Sports for Israel, January 2008i

Dear Iris and Igal,

On behalf of Maccabi USA, please accept my sincerest thanks for all of your hard work organizing our Mission and Team programs, making travel arrangements for the entire US Delegation and for being incredible assets to our leadership team in Buenos Aires. Our special events- the Boat Cruise, Estancia Day and the tours were outstanding. The Tango Dinner was spectacular as was the cocktail party with Los Tenores. Gracias for your professionalism, your impeccable good taste, your attention to the smallest detail and your dedication and commitment to providing the Mission and Team USA with the best possible Pan Am experience. Each of you played a critical and vital role in the success of this project.

Thanks to the incredible leadership of Phyllis, we assembled an outstanding group of leadership, managers and staff to ensure that the needs of our athletes and supporters were attended to. You helped us deal with each situation in a professional and reassuring manner, from the normal issues associated with the Pan Am Games to the very difficult situations we faced relating to transportation and obtaining timely information about competition schedules. Both of you should be awarded a personal gold medal for working long hours in sometimes trying conditions for the benefit of our athletes and Missionaries.

Look back with pride on what we accomplished and how well you helped us deal with the hourly challenges we faced. The success of Pan Am is not measured by the size of the Team USA, the American Delegation or by the number of medals won, but rather by the total athletic, cultural and Jewish experience. In spite of the difficulties we faced, the e mails we are receiving indicate that the overwhelming majority of our Team and Mission members returned from Buenos Aires with new friends and great memories, a renewed sense of Jewish identity and pride, and with a stronger connection to Israel and to the Jewish People.

More significantly, in these troubled times for Jews, together we helped send a powerful message that the best, the brightest, the strongest and the most physically adept of the Jewish people are ready to stand up and join together in a display of Jewish strength and unity.

Thank you for all you have done- you have been a magnificent Team. I cherish your friendship and I look forward to sharing the 18th Maccabiah in 2009 and future international Maccabi events with you.

With warmest Maccabi Regards.

- Toni Wortman, President,Maccabi USA Sports for Israel, January 2008

Just want to drop you a note to thank you for putting everything together for our trip. We had a great time. Everything, including the weather, was perfect. Please relay our thanks to your contacts at Kenes as well.

Look forward to working with you on our next trip to Israel.

- Scott & Lucy Lichtenberg, January 2008

Just got back from Israel. We had a great time and our guide, Harley was great!

- Renae, January 2008

The trip was amazing. We all had a fabulous time. Our guide was terrific. I would highly recommend him to anyone. He was very knowledgable and extremely flexible. The accomodations were very good. Thank you so much for all of your help in putting this memorable trip together for our family!

- Sue Sukonik, January 2008

I want to thank you for all of your help putting together a phenomenal trip for our group. You and Jackie did a great job balancing the historical aspects of Israel along with the fun parts.

My husband, who never wanted to go to Israel, enjoyed it so much that he is already planning to return in two years. My children proclaimed it the greatest trip ever and have not stopped talking about all the things we did and saw.

Our guide, Reuben Nevo was outstanding. He was able to accommodate both the intellectual interests of the adults on the trip and the lighter side for the kids. We would definitely recommend him to everyone and hope to be able to use him on our next trip.

The accommodations were all first class and the meals were outstanding and beyond plentiful. We really felt at home there.

Thanks again to you and Jackie. You really did an excellent job!!

- Amy Charles, January 2008

- The Spectors, January 2008

I just wanted to tell you that we had a wonderful trip to Israel. Thanks to you, the arrangements were excellent. All three hotels were perfect, the Carlton in Tel Aviv, Davids Citadel in Jerusalem and the Neptune in Eilat.

The flights on El Al were also very good and leaving from Miami was well worth the extra cost.

Thanks again for your help.

- Arnie Marder, December 2007

-Steve Holden, December 2007

Now, all we have to hope is that the meetings, visits, touring and logistics for the next week go as smoothly as we've planned!!!! Is there anything you can do about the predicted rain all week?????

I look forward to meeting your colleagues on the ground and to working with them in St. Peterburg and Moscow. Thanks again, Mark.

- Mark D. Medin, Executive Director, Philanthropic Leadership Group,
UJA-Federation of New York, November 2007

I have been to Israel many times to study and to tour and I was delighted with Gil Travel, Susan Blum and Karen Allen.

Susan was most helpful and patient when I needed to alter my arrival and departure dates. Susan gave me valuable advice and made wonderful arrangements for our extended stay in Israel. And when reservations were not as contracted, she immediately took responsibility to solve the problem.

Karen gave careful attention to detail and to the needs of every individual in the group. She is a very knowledgeable and skilled leader. The organization of the tour gave the participants an opportunity to learn, to experience and to integrate religious, political, and historical information. Karen Allen, thank you so much for weaving a beautiful historical and religious tapestry of Israel.

- Donalee Markus Ph.D., November 2007

I was one of the very fortunate 17 women to be on the Birmingham women's journey to Israel, Nov 4 to 14, 2007.

Our tour leader, Karen Allen, was, from the very beginning of our "travel conversations" very knowledgeable and organized. She communicated every step of the way, from planning to packing.

We had the most wonderful guide, Laura Nelson Levy. She was perfect for our group; extremely experienced, patient, and demographically appropriate! The agenda that Karen chose included some of the most precious experiences; from visiting Birmingham's sister city of Rosh Ha'ayin which included a visit with the mayor and being serenaded by some of the town's women's choir, to a truly enjoyable luncheon in Safed and being the personal audience of Gennine who performed her one-woman autobiographical play.

Our one night in the Negev desert at the Zman Midbar yoga retreat was my personal favorite night followed by a sunrise over the hills and a hike through some very ancient archeological lands.

Our visit to Yad Vashem was, by far, the most moving and emotional experience for me. I've been wanting to go there for some time.

All our hotels were better than I expected. At Mitzpe Hayamim, however, we were all given rooms with only one king-size bed and I quickly requested, and got, a 2 bed suite.

My absolutely indebted to our travel insurance company, Travel Guard. I arrived in Tel Aviv without my luggage and if it weren't for the efforts of Travel Guard, I would have never gotten my luggage. As it was, I finally got my luggage on our 4th night. I truly believe that had I not had this insurance, I would have never gotten my luggage, EVER!

Thank you Karen, Laura, Gil Travel, and Travel Guard!

- Jan Miller, November 2007

The dust is beginning to settle on an extraordinary experience. I simply want to put in writing what I hope I conveyed to you in person. I have enormous gratitude for all you did to make our experience deeper, better, smoother. Your capacity to problem solve in real time is remarkable. Your commitment to your work and to the Jewish people is equally remarkable.

I appreciate you so much. Thank you.

By the way, on the flight back to the States I composed a poem that I shared with our group. I will send it to you momentarily as well.

All best wishes,

-Larry S. Moses - President, The Wexner Foundation, New Albany, October 2007

I just wanted to let you know I had an uplifting experience in Israel. I'm looking forward to going back!!! It was the best!!!!

Our guide was awesome!!!! I would highly recommend him for any trip you sponsor out there. I'm looking forward to booking my next trip with you again!!!

- Deidra Boykin, Account Executive, WDCW-TV/DT Tribune Broadcasting, July 2007

- Dena, Steve, Alex and Rachel Samuels, July 2007

- Nancy M. Lipsey, Hazon Ride Director, June 2007

I join Hindie in every word she said. This is not the first time that you and the Gil staff "went the extra mile". Thank you.

- Chaim Fischgrund, Executive Director, AMIIE, June 2007

We just wanted to send you a short note thanking you for doing such a fine job in arranging our Israel trip. We had a wonderful time and all the arrangements were perfect. The transfers were all on time and the tour guide is to be commended. His name was Meir Oppenheim and his running commentary was excellent. He had the dual job of tour guide and driver which was a true feat. He even excelled in keeping everyone happy by perfecting timing our visits to the various sites. Please let his superiors know of our praise for his job well done.

We are referring our friends to you to arrange for a trip to Israel in early October. We highly recommended you.

Thank you again.

- Adele and Howard Kass, June 2007

I just wanted to thank you and all the Gil Travel staff for the amazing support given to our groups, yesterday and today. These two days were anything but routine and the Gil staff came through for us in a really big way. Francois' expediting really saved us on Tuesday night. Half our group would certainly have been left behind were it not for his efforts.

Naomi and Marti were so helpful on Wednesday morning, from the earliest phone call when we were beginning to deal with EL AL in Newark for the students who were going to Israel, to the last phone call regarding the Poland /Prague group at JFK.

Even Igal helped from on high over Italy. Jake, at Newark Airport, who took us under his wing, really won our kids' admiration when he cut the line in front of at least 200 people to get them interviewed by security and checked in. I know he couldn't be obvious about giving us preferential treatment and I'm sure no one noticed.....

And Shirley, thank you, thank you, thank you. I'm glad it ended as well as it did, but even had it not, I knew you were working tirelessly on our behalf. We had a responsibility to all the students because they were our kids, and you even exerted your efforts for those who had not bought their tickets through you with our group.

Please thank Adamo on our behalf as well. He was very gracious even under what had to have been a huge amount of pressure.

- Hindie Fried, Director of Operations, North America, Alexander
Muss Institute for Israel Education, June 2007

We had a fabulous trip to Israel (May 18-27) thanks to your careful planning! The itinerary was perfect for a first trip; our guide Jacky Jeger was exceptional; and the accommodations were wonderful; Everything worked smoothly. We owe a big thanks to Daniele and Fred Cohen, too, who linked us up with you.

- Sandy Norman, June 2007

Thank you. Wonderful trip!

The country, arrangements, transportation and guide could have not been better. I would highly recommend your agency to anyone who wants to travel to Israel.

In fact, the taxi driver who drove me to the airport claimed he knows the owner of Gil Travel.

- Alan Levine, May 2007

Just a quick note to let you know that our friends Sandy and Frank Norman loved the trip you designed for them. They had an excellent guide and had the time of their lives.

It was the Normans' first trip to Israel and I am so happy that it went so well. Of course, I had no doubt that it would, since Gil Travel was planning it!

We viewed the entire trip through Frank's wonderful slide show. If you are interested, I can give you the website. Anyway, it looked just wonderful!

- Daniele Cohen, May 2007

I would like to take this opportunity to single out one of your employees, Donna Burman. Donna has been the Gil Travel representative working with Maccabi USA on the flights for Rome, Italy for the European Maccabi Games. From day one Donna has been extremely courteous, helpful, precise, efficient, and just an all-around mensch.

As your veteran leader, Susan Blum can attest to the fact that the process of doing the flights for any Maccabi USA Team has always been quite a challenge. Please know that working with her has been a pleasure, and we really appreciate it.

- Ami Monson, Program Director - Maccabi USA, May 2007

- Bob Seltzer, May 2007

- Pastor Stanley, Assistant Pastor, Bethel Baptist Church, May 2007

I wanted to take the opportunity to thank you both for the tremendous efforts you made to make our trip to Peru the success that it was. You partnered with people who had expertise and wonderful organizational skills that made our trip an exceptional experience and gave our students a life-changing experience abroad.

I especially appreciate the work you both did to customize the items of our itinerary to serve the specific purpose of our trip. Both tour Guides Claudia and Fernando were outstanding and they gave us a real taste of the people and culture of Peru.

The planning and execution of our trip was excellent. You both thought of everything. It was wonderful for you to come to our school to prepare our students. I felt that the personal attention you gave to us, from the minute we began planning the trip, to the follow-up you provided when we returned, added to the excellence.

Again, I thank you both for all that you did. I would recommend your services to anyone wishing to travel overseas. I look forward to working with you both in the future as we can continue to explore international trips as part of our school’s curriculum.

- David Solivan, Director of Instruction, Nueva Esperanza Academy, April 2007

- Frankie Rose and Hilda Fisher, April 2007

I wanted to drop you a quick line and tell you what a wonderful time we had in Egypt. It was an incredible and unforgettable experience. Cairo was crazy and yet beautiful in its own way, while the temples and tombs of Luxor were amazing! Our tour directors, guides and drivers in both Cairo and Luxor went above and beyond the call - they were all consumate professionals and did everything they could to make our experience the best possible. The guides were oracles of information and without them we would have missed so much. Similarly, the drivers and tour directors made the transitions/travel between sites seamless.

All in all, we have nothing but the best things to say about our experience in Egypt. And for that, we truly thank you.

- Brett & Shayna Schreiber, March 2007

I wanted to personally thank you for working on our behalf in putting together a trip of a lifetime.  Words alone cannot express how great we feel about our experience in Israel.  Unlike most vacations this was truly a uniqe and very special "journey" the memories of which we will cherish forever.  

Gil Travel did an excellent job with all the arrangements and accomodations which added to the overall quality of the experience.  Malka and myself felt confident that we were in "good hands" with Gil Travel.  I will forever be glad that we made the journey and that Gil Travel assisted in making our dream a reality.

Thanks again for all your hard work!!

- Allan & Malka Goodman, March 2007

I just returned from the FLIGHT Mission to Ethiopia and Israel and wanted to touch base to let you know what an outstanding job Channy Greenberg did.  She quietly and unobtrusively insured that every detail was taken care of and that every participant had what they needed to get the maximum out of the experience.  We had some concerns about a national strike coinciding with our return from Ethiopia to Israel.  With her insight and elbow grease, we were ready with an alternative plan - which thankfully proved unnecessary.

It was an absolute pleasure to work with her on what was, I believe, a very important mission.

- Doron Krakow, Sr VP Israel & Overseas, United Jewish Communities, March 2007

On behalf of the JCRC of the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia, but more importantly, on behalf of the participants in our recent interfaith trip to Israel, I want to express our deepest thanks to you and your colleagues at Gil Travel for all that you did in making our project such a success. From the very start of the process, you were more than merely helpful but a real partner in this effort. Your suggestions were invaluable. You and everyone else at Gil was responsive to all our requests and very flexible when we wanted to make any alterations, as is always necessary on trips such as this. From my over thirty years of doing this work I know that interfaith trips are unique in that they must be responsive to multiple interests and needs and your sensitivity to that was very much appreciated. I have already recommended you and Gil to others planning group trips to Israel and look forward  to our continuing to work together.

- Burt Siegel, Director, Jewish Community Relations Council, March 2007