Gems are single women and married women, 30+ years of age, who come from all walks of Jewish life. The common denominator is a deep love for and interest in their Jewish roots and an excitement about expanding their knowledge and understanding of Judaism.

Some Gems have had very little exposure to their Jewish roots, while others have been living an Orthodox lifestyle for many years. Some Gems are married with children while other Gems are single. Some Gems are learning about the religious lifestyle that other members of their families have taken on, while others are mavericks within their families, the first to really delve into Jewish learning more deeply. Some come on their own. Some come with a friend, a mom, a daughter or a sister.

How does the application process work?

Space is limited, so submit your online application as soon as possible. Once the application is received, you'll be contacted by e-mail or phone to schedule an interview. Meanwhile, Gem staff will contact your references. Applicants will be notified either way via e-mail. If we are able to schedule a prompt interview and contact your references in a timely manner, the entire application process should take approximately 2-3 weeks. A minimum of 10 participants (or equivalent income) is needed for each session to take place.

How should I plan my travel?

You'll make your own travel arrangements. The program fee does not include airfare or transportation between Tel Aviv Airport and the hotel in Jerusalem. Please plan to arrive at the Tel Aviv Airport on Monday, the first day of your session, before 3:00pm. (The earlier you arrive, the more time you’ll have to settle in and freshen up.) We recommend you take a Jerusalem Van Shuttle Service, “Nesher”, from the airport to the hotel for about $11. We’ll all meet in the hotel lobby at 6pm and walk together to a relaxing welcome dinner in a nearby restaurant. A full schedule will begin on Tuesday.

The program ends with a Farewell Dinner and hotel stay Wednesday night. Hotel checkout is by noon on Thursday. Although no programming is scheduled for Thursday, you are welcome to attend free drop-in classes at Aish HaTorah’s Essentials Program in the Old City.

What is the cost of the program?

Gem 5 is $2250* per person, double occupancy, which includes 10 hotel nights and most meals.

*Airfare and transportation to and from the airport are not included.

Are scholarships available?

Yes, scholarships are available. They are based on need. We suggest you submit your online application as soon as possible since funds are distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis. Discuss your financial need in your interview. Scholarship recipients are asked to reimburse the fund if and when they are able in order to help future Gems to come.

What if I don't want to share a room with another Gem?

The program fee is per person based on a double room shared with another Gem participant. We encourage women coming on their own to share a room. It’s a good way to develop a new friendship and it’s also nice to have someone to talk with about what we’ve been learning and doing. However, if you still think you might want a room of your own, we’ll let you know the additional cost and do our best to reserve a separate room for you, depending, of course, on availability.

Will there be expenses that aren't covered?

You'll likely have some free time expenses that will not be covered including some (though not many) meals, some snacks, shopping, taxis or buses taken during your free time. Airfare is not covered. Transportation between the Tel Aviv Airport and the hotel is not covered, however we recommend using the Jerusalem Van Shuttle Service, “Nesher”, which only costs about $11 each way.

What if I need to cancel?

Cancellation is possible any time. However, deposits are only refundable up to four weeks before the program session begins. Any scholarships awarded for a particular session only apply to that session.

What if I want to stay with friends or family or in a hotel of my own choosing?

We highly recommend staying together with the group in order to facilitate departing on tours or other activities together as well as bonding with the group and making new friends. However, the choice is yours. You will be responsible for meeting the group at the appointed time and place for trip or activity departures and staying on top of any changes in itinerary. It would be unfair to the rest of the group to keep them waiting for a Gem to arrive from another location. The program cost will be reduced by $800 if you take care of your own accommodations.

How much free time will I have?

We try to schedule some free time each day. This will give Gems an opportunity to rest, visit friends or relatives, shop, and explore on your own.

How far are the hotels from the classes?

Classes are held at a variety of locations. Many are in the Old City. Since cars aren't the norm for Old City transportation, it is customary to walk to class there. It’s about a 15 minute walk. Classes may also be in the hotel, or at off-site locations to which transportation will be provided.

How much walking is involved in the program?

You can easily spend 10 nights in Jerusalem and never see a health club. Old City residents don't need them -- they have the local topography as their own personal Stairmaster (and free too!). Between walking tours and just getting yourself around, you'll be doing a lot of walking during Gem. Keep in mind as you choose walking shoes that the stones under your feet have been worn smooth over thousands of years. A rubber sole is highly recommended.

Is the program wheelchair accessible?

Unfortunately, due to the numerous stairs throughout the Old City and many non-accessible tour locations, Gem is not recommended for people in wheelchairs.

Do I need to speak Hebrew?

Not at all. All Gem classes are given in English. You'll also find that most Israelis speak at least a little English -- certainly enough to help you get around.