"A Walk About" - An Unforgettable and Transformative Journey Through Israel with Mayever

This reflection was written by Maggie Wolf, a traveler who tapped Mayever to build a custom experience in Israel.

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Before embarking on my journey to Israel, my Rabbi blessed me with the word להתהלך (L'hit-halech), which translates to "walk about." This concept embodies a reciprocal, enriching experience, reminiscent of God’s command to Abraham. My recent adventure allowed me to truly live this blessing as I explored Israel alongside an exceptional guide.

Here are five ways my trip transcended the ordinary:

1. Personalized Itinerary
While it’s impossible to experience Israel in just a few days, Mayever crafted an itinerary that maximized my time and fulfilled my soul’s desires. It was as though Mayever was able to tap into my psyche, cultivating the very trip that I could not articulate or suggest for myself. They curated special places and unique activities that often strayed from the typical tourist path. 

2. Perfect Guide Match
The behind-the-scenes work by Mayever to match me with my guide, Lizi (pictured below on the right), was remarkable. She understood the essence of my journey, enhancing every moment through music, prayer, culinary recommendations, meaningful conversation/historical, factual, cultural information, and thoughtful accommodations. She was also a built-in personal photographer, capturing scenes, meals, and moments, so that I could be fully present and not merely traveling behind the lens of my camera. The best part was that Lizi was far from a stranger. Before the trip, Lizi and I got to know each other and game plan together, bringing a renewed sense of comfort even before we embarked on our experience.
3. Off the Beaten Path Experiences
Mayever arranged extraordinary activities that truly captivated my spirit—a name-reading session at the Kabbalah Center in Tzfat; a hike overlooking the Kinneret; a rejuvenating hot springs spa in Hamat Gadar with a personalized Tibetan bowl ceremony; and a fun Segway ride in Caesarea. While I knew Lizi could take me to the Dead Sea and the Negev as well, I trusted her to show me new spots—locations that, thanks to Mayever’s access, made it a reality.

4. Catering to All Senses
The culinary experiences were delightful, featuring unique restaurants like Fatoush in Haifa and local delicacies like knafeh, Indian cuisine in Parma’s Hanna, and traditional Israeli nosh. Lizi enriched my travels with Israeli and spiritual music, helping me with Hebrew and Arabic or translating when needed, and we engaged in meaningful spiritual experiences, including prayer at Elijah’s Cave in Haifa, an impromptu invitation to a an Upsherin (a tradition marking a boy's third birthday with a first haircut ceremony), and peaceful moments in beautiful synagogues and picturesque Israeli landscapes. 

5. A Deep Connection with Culture
My journey was not merely a sightseeing tour; it was a transformative experience that deepened my connection with the land and the people. Through shared moments and authentic interactions, I left Israel feeling spiritually uplifted, profoundly enriched, and desperate to get back and see more with Mayever. 

Mayever provided an extraordinary journey that went far beyond any expectations. Their attention to detail and personalized itinerary made this truly a once in a lifetime trip for me