Traveling to Israel is a unique experience. Visiting a European destination on the way to Israel, either in Eastern or Western Europe, can add a great deal of meaning and richness to the Israel experience. ISI organizes trips to Western Europe. A partial list includes the following:

• Italy is an incredible destination for Jewish youth on their way to Israel: It is a country rich in sites and experiences which are fun and fascinating. As the birthplace of Roman culture and the geographic center of the Roman Empire, visitors gain meaningful perspectives on the people and culture which played a crucial role in the history of the Land of Israel.
  
• Colorful sites in cities including Venice, Florence, Rome and Milano create a backdrop for exploring this country. Hikes through Tuscany, boating on the lakes of Umbria and biking through the parks of Rome are only a few of the highlights of these itineraries. Sitting under the Arch of Titus in Rome and singing "Am Yisrael Hai" gives incredible meaning to visiting the Temple Mount in Jerusalem, destroyed by the Romans in the campaign commemorated by this victory arch.
  
• Rich in its own history, England has an equally rich Jewish history, filled with ups and downs. A visit to London, York and other destinations in England and their surroundings is a fun and meaningful way to see a unique country with a large and diverse Jewish community. Visit the London Eye, cruise the Thames River, see the Tower of London 's jewels, and then sit down to a kosher dinner in Golder's Green.
  
• Another desintation in Western Europe with a significant Jewish history is Spain, where Jewish communities thrived between the 10th and 15th centuries. Visit Cordoba, Seville, Toledo and lesser known towns to see what remains of the once-grand Jewish communities there. We will have an opportunity later to contrast this with our group's visit to Tzfat and its 16th century glory and talk about Spanish influences there. We also use the background we gain to explain the migration of Sefardi Jews through North Africa, Europe, and Asia to modern Israel.

General touring in each county is a highlight as well. In Spain we will hike through the Pyranees mountains and explore castles along the Costa Del Sol on Spain's famed Mediterranean coast.