Travel with Us
Explore the world. Expand your perspective.
We believe travel is a powerful tool for learning, connection, and growth. Whether you’re exploring global Jewish communities, deepening your leadership skills, or building friendships that last long after you return, our travel experiences help shape your Jewish journey and your worldview.
Through alternative breaks and Birthright Israel trips, Columbia/Barnard Hillel offers meaningful opportunities to see the world, engage with diverse perspectives, and return with a renewed sense of purpose and community.
Learn more:
Alternative Breaks
Travel the world with Columbia/Barnard Hillel! We’re excited to announce our travel opportunities for Spring Break 2026:
Poland: March 12-22, 2026 Cost: $1,450
Rio de Janeiro (Class of 2029): March 14-22, 2026 Cost: $1,250
Cuba: March 15-22, 2026 Cost: $1,250
The full cost of each trip is generously subsidized by Columbia/Barnard Hillel and includes round-trip airfare, accommodations, at least two meals per day, and all programming costs. Program fees should not be a barrier to participation; please email Rachel (she/her) to discuss options for financial aid.
See where we’ve been!
Check out photos from past alternative break experiences:
Columbia/Barnard Birthright Israel
Join us for a 10-day peer travel experience that explores Jewish identity, community, and connection—set against the backdrop of Israel’s rich history and complexity. Travel with fellow Columbia and Barnard students and return to campus with new friendships and shared memories.
Birthright trips are open to students who have not spent extensive time in Israel and who meet the program’s eligibility requirements. If you’re unsure whether you qualify, reach out—we’re happy to help!
We’re committed to offering a trip experience that prioritizes comfort, thoughtful dialogue, nuance, and a celebration of diverse Jewish and political identities.
Winter 2025–2026 Trip Dates:
- December 28, 2025 – January 7, 2026 → Register here
- January 7, 2026 – January 18, 2026 → Register here
Questions? Reach out to Eliana (she/her) at eliana.hallegua@hillel.columbia.edu to get started on your Birthright journey.
Check out photos from past Columbia Barnard Birthright Israel trips:
Birthright Extension Summer 2026
Join us for a 4-day Birthright Extension this summer that will offer unique access to Israelis and Palestinians working to create a shared future. This opt-in addition to your Birthright experience will include tours and meetings with Palestinian and Israeli human rights activists and speakers, engaging with small groups of passionate people—Israelis, Palestinians, students, activists, and organizers. Participants will encounter Palestinian life under Israeli sovereignty up close and consider the far-reaching impacts on Israel’s security and Jewish flourishing worldwide. Together we will create a community to sustain vulnerable conversations and build the tools to move forward with the resilience and responsibility that this moment demands.
June 3rd-7th
Questions? Reach out to Reb Sarah (she/her) at Sarah.P@hillel.columbia.edu.
There is a deposit of $300 required for participation in this experience. After returning, $150 will be returned to you. Cost should not be a barrier to participation, please reach out to Reb Sarah be in conversation around this at Sarah.P@hillel.columbia.edu
