Why HMI
Honeymoon Israel isn’t just a trip—it’s the beginning of something deeper. Join other couples from your city for a life-changing 10-day journey through Israel, designed for those in a committed relationship.
Together, you’ll explore what Jewish life, identity, and community can look like for you. From pre-trip gatherings to unforgettable moments in Israel—and lasting connections long after you return—you’ll find friendship, meaning, and a sense of belonging in places you never imagined.
Ready to see if this is right for you?
The Trip
Why Now?
In the wake of the tragic events of October 7, 2023, traveling to Israel offers a deeply meaningful opportunity to experience the country during a transformative time. You’ll engage with a society navigating profound challenges and connect with Israelis and Palestinians whose stories go far beyond the headlines.
What to Expect
- Iconic Sites: the Western Wall, Jerusalem’s Old City, Tel Aviv’s beaches
- Exclusive Experiences: Dialogues with public leaders, business innovators, and changemakers
- Two Shabbat Experiences: One traditional in Jerusalem, one modern in Tel Aviv
- Unstructured Time: Space to reflect and connect with your partner
- Meet Local Israelis: HMI invites Israeli couples to join each trip as part of our Mifgash Program, providing participants with their authentic, firsthand perspective on life in Israel
- Safety First: Travel with experienced guides and security measures in place to ensure a secure experience
Your Community
Each HMI trip includes ~20 couples from your city, creating space for deep connection during and after the experience. Our participants represent the rich diversity of today’s Jewish life.
Inclusive Groups
You’ll be part of a supportive, inclusive group—interfaith, Jewish, LGBTQIA+, multiracial—where all are welcome.
”HMI changed our life as a couple and as individuals! As a same-sex couple, we felt welcomed and safe at all times, and now we have life-long friends and a new, deeper connection to Jewish life and culture.
Kevin & Nicholas, LA 2022
Real Conversations
This journey invites curiosity and openness. No expectations. Just shared questions about identity, meaning, and partnership.
Local Connection
The community doesn’t end when the trip does. You’ll come home to local gatherings, meaningful moments, and lifelong friends.
Your Own Judaism
We can’t help who we fall in love with. And no matter how you want to incorporate Judaism – or other religions! – into your life together, we’re here to help you figure it out. You’ll join couples at a similar stage of life who are also asking big questions about identity, meaning, and how to build a shared life together. This trip creates space for open, honest conversations—without expectations or judgment—so you can explore what being Jewish means to you as a couple, with the support of people who truly get it.
After the Trip
Honeymoon Israel is just the beginning. Once you return, you’ll find support to live out the Jewish life that feels right for you.
- Local Events & Holiday Gatherings
- Alumni Micro Grants to Help Bring Your Ideas to Life
- Connections With Local Organizations and National HMI Staff
- Opportunities for Shared Jewish Living
Ready to Begin?
Honeymoon Israel is more than a trip. It’s your chance to explore who you are, what you value, and how you want to live Jewish life—together.
In Their Own Words
“We applied to HMI because I had a deep connection to Israel while my partner had never been. The opportunity to share my love for Israel and experience the tumultuous times of October 7th's impact together was incredibly meaningful. Through HMI, we gained profound insights into the perspectives of Palestinian Israelis and Jewish Israelis, allowing us to develop a deeper understanding of the country's and region's complexities. This experience brought us closer as a couple, strengthened our bond with Israel, and expanded our network of Jewish friends in Chicago, IL. HMI's impact will continue to shape our lives moving forward.”
Joanna and BrandonChicago, July 2024
