Our last day in Israel has been a whirlwind of emotions and experiences, beginning with a guided graffiti tour in the Florentin neighborhood. There, we explored some of the most most visible and famous graffiti in town (and some hidden masterpieces). Our guide shared the stories of these works and the graffiti artists who created them, and then we had the opportunity to create our own graffiti as a class!

We then enjoyed lunch and shopping in the treasure trove at the Shuk Hapishpeshim in Jaffa and sadly bid an early farewell to Barak. From here, we took in the magnificent views of Tel Aviv as we shared with each other our favorite memories of the trip and what we wish for each other in the future. Some of the highlights included Masada, swimming in the Mediterranean, the Kotel, experiencing Israel with friends for the first time, and the unique feeling of being in a holy place. Shirel shared with us that we will always have a home here and that she wishes for all of the CDS Class of 2023 a long and meaningful relationship with Israel and connection to our people.

From there it was on to the “last supper” at a restaurant near the airport, where we bid farewell to friends staying in Israel and our trip staff … One thing is certain–for the Community Day School Class of 2023, it’s not goodbye to each other or to Israel … it’s l’hitraot!