Few remember that the flagship program had many detractors when it was launched 13 years ago. Today, few initiatives enjoy as much support in the Jewish world.
An American and an Israeli growing up worlds apart draw similar inspiration from what has become a hallmark of the 10-day trip - face-to-face meetings on the bus.
Birthright is now 13 years old. Haaretz talks to five Israelis who have also reached that milestone and discovers through them a different ‘start-up nation.’
Experience shows it doesn’t really matter where Birthright groups go. What’s more critical is how much of their Israel experience they retain when they go back.
Not so long ago, a decent cocktail was hard to come by in Israel, but fortunately things have changed. Get acquainted with some favorite drinking haunts in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.
Did 10 days give you a taste for more? For those staying on, we suggest things to do and places to see that probably weren't part of the Birthright itinerary.