Are You Turning Into a Francophile?

France: the country that houses the city of love and everything excellent from art, food, wine, and beyond. One of the most influential cultures in the world, it’s so easy to fall in love with France. You're bound to find something that you'd like to hold on to forever.

Even the Jewish representation in France is so fondly unique that it's an easy favorite if you want to spend your kosher holiday in an extraordinary way.

Eiffel Tower - Paris, France

Those that experienced the French Paradox first-hand knows what it feels like to be entranced in the grace and beauty of France. Some even take it too far and call themselves Francophiles. This rather radical term was given an adventurer's twist. It's as if they've caught the lovebug for everything that's French.

Is the same happening to you? Let's find out.

Do You Find Joy in Moderation?

The French are strong believers of “quality over quantity”. This is true most especially when it comes to food. When French people eat, they eat long and well, but they rarely eat hefty amounts.

They love taking the time and savoring what's served on the table. Why consume a lot if the appropriate amount satisfies you in the same way, right?

How About a Natural Appreciation for Everything Beautiful?

Francophiles also have a very obvious appreciation for everything that's wonderfully and beautifully made. To them, every creation and creature possesses natural beauty and they are quick to notice these qualities from almost everyone.

The Pont de Arts

Now that you know what Francophiles are like, can you identify yourself as someone belonging to this collective of beauty-seeking, taste-chasing people? If you do, then maybe you are a Francophile. Let that pleasant outlook of yours grow -- so plan a trip to France!

If you’re a Jewish Francophile, you can go on one of those Jewish trips where you can take an immersive trip through your heritage. It's a chance for you to appreciate everything your ancestors have done and how they paved the way for the current generation to enjoy the life they have.

What Makes A Holiday Trip Kosher?

Going on kosher vacations has become more convenient for many Jews nowadays. There are many options that you can choose from. For example, you can go on a kosher tour that will take you on a culinary adventure around France, or you could go on a kosher river cruise along the Danube River in Central Europe and visit the many towns that used to have (or still have) Jewish communities.

Kosher tourism is on the rise, and it doesn't seem like it's slowing down anytime soon. 

What makes a vacation a kosher one, you might ask? Let's take a look at what kosher tourism means. 

But First: A Refresher of the Word 'Kosher' 

We all probably know what 'kosher' means, right? It is a Hebrew term for classifying food that is fit for consumption by Jews. To be considered kosher, the food has to comply with the standards of kashrut -- the Jewish dietary law.

Kosher isn't just about the food's safety or your physical health (although some nutrition enthusiasts say they feel much healthier when on a kosher diet). It is also about respecting and adhering to the religious laws and traditions that have been passed down and taught to us for thousands of years.

What Does Kosher Tourism Entail?

This kind of tourism is aimed towards Jewish travelers. Aside from heading to places that are significant to Jewish history, it also means your accommodations are usually close to synagogues and serve kosher meals -- or point you to places that do have them. There are also specialized travel packages that cater to those that are going on a kosher holiday trip during, say, Pesach, Hanukkah, and Sukkot.

Thinking about going on a vacation of your own? On land, Chabad houses and kosher hotels will be a big help in making your travels more convenient. On water, kosher cruises offer not only kosher meals and Jewish tours, but they have onboard synagogues as well. They also take into consideration if a day in the travel schedule falls on Shabbat.

So, have you decided on what kind of trip would you like? 

Are Kosher Vacations for You?

Kosher River Cruises is the first all-kosher travel option that's been in the cruising industry for over 30 years. Our kosher vacations are sought after by many people around the world. Why? They're luxurious—it feels like you're traveling like royalty when you're cruising with us. They're exciting, unlike ocean cruises that highlight the cruise ship, we highlight the tour excursion.

You have the opportunity to dock at multiple cities by the riverside during your duration on the cruise. And the food is amazing. All our food preparation is supervised by a rabbi to ensure top kosher quality and Master Chef winner Malcolm Green will be making all your meals.

Are You Stressed Out?

Go and file that leave of absence, don't think twice about it. It's time for you to book a tour with Kosher River Cruises. Sometimes we just need to get away from it all, and going on a vacation could be just what the doctor ordered.

Are You Craving for Adventure?

Sometimes our wanderlust can't be satisfied by just one place; we need to tread mountains until our feet can't walk and explore cities until we've seen every corner.

Are You Celebrating Something Special?

One thing that Kosher River Cruises has that other cruise companies don't is that we have options for a private charter. You get to choose your own route, and you can choose the tour itinerary. This is perfect for birthdays, wedding anniversary's, and family reunions.

Are You Tired of Discomfort While in Transit?

Airplanes will always be the number one mode of travel, but they're more often than not uncomfortable. For the same price, you could travel through multiple countries in Europe with just one vessel. The best part is that you get a personal, luxurious cabin for you to sleep in while journeying to the next destination.

Does our list tick off any boxes? If so, then you know what time it is. It's time to book a tour package with kosher cruises! We have limited seats available on every cruise, so hurry and get your tickets now.

A Jew's Journey of Rediscovery

We all live our lives on a repetitive cycle of doing what we need and finding time for what we want. Today our lives are so digital. Seeing the world is easier, but stepping out is what we actually need. People are more interested in attaining attention rather than attuning themselves to what's really important.

Jewish tours are gaining popularity because it takes kosher adventurers into a journey of rediscovery. Why do we need to rediscover the person we're seeing in the mirror every day? And how can stepping outside help you know yourself even better?

Dinner Cruise

Investing Time Instead of Spending It

Nobody knows why, but for some reason, people today  have been told by the media that the solution to tiring routines and burning out is getting intoxicated and getting incapacitated during vacations.

Traveling should not be senseless. It should rather be a time to reunite yourself with the senses. Every journey should be taken as an opportunity to explore the self, the world and to be inspired by how you can find beauty in both elements.

The Jewish philosopher Martin Buber once wrote that  “All journeys have secret destinations of which the traveler is unaware.” This doesn't necessarily mean that you really have to find that most secret kosher restaurant in order to have a real adventure.

Having a real adventure is all about looking into yourself, and seeing the beauty in you that you haven't noticed before. When you come to grips with that realization, you can then enjoy the world for what it is.

To Rediscover Is To Reconnect

Jewish travel arrangements like kosher riverboat cruises are all about reconnecting Jewish travelers first to themselves, then to other Jews around the world and finally -- and perhaps most importantly -- to their heritage.

While each destination is breathtaking and the accommodation is luxurious, the main priority of the adventure is to rediscover and to reconnect. Go on a Jewish heritage tour and come home with a better sense of yourself, your heritage, and the world around you.