What Will You Explore on a Trip Along the Mekong?

Our collective wanderlust has been in suspended animation for so long, the idea of a warm beach vacation feels somewhat unreal. But don’t fret, it’s a new year, and in a couple of months time, we’ll be able to explore the world again freely. With that said, where do you plan on going once this pandemic subsides? There’s a lot of beautiful locales that we can recommend, but right now, we’ll point towards the Mekong River of Mainland Southeast Asia. 

The longest river of Southeast Asia, the Mekong is a nourishing waterway that provides food and livelihood for the many countries that live near it. A tour along its banks would be fruitful and engaging. In fact, it was even the spot for several kosher cruises in the past. Here are some highlights that you might see on a cruise along the Mekong. 

Ancient Legacies

A variety of ancient civilizations ruled the Indochinese Peninsula, and relics of their grandeur and majesty still persist amidst the verdant forests and jungles of Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and the other countries in that part of Asia. Places like Tah Prohm and Angkor Wat, in particular, can be found near the Mekong and can be easily visited when traveling along its majestic waters. 

Wondrous Cities

Many great cities can be found on a kosher tour along the Mekong River. Gaze upon the modern beauty of Saigon, or Ho Chi Minh City. Marvel at the bountiful capital city of Phnom Penh. Explore the richness of Nong Khai. The possibilities are endless!

Beautiful Wildlife

As a center of wildlife and biodiversity, the Mekong River is the home of a multitude of unique and fascinating creatures. There’s the rare Irrawaddy dolphin, the mysterious saola, and the majestic Indochinese tiger. Despite their individual majesty, many of these creatures are part of the endangered species list, so be careful if you ever see them in the wild.

The Mekong is truly full of wonders. When you’re planning your future vacation, consider touring the Mekong River. 

Facts You Need To Know When Visiting Venice, Italy

“To build a city where it is impossible to build a city is madness in itself, but to build there one of the most elegant and grandest of cities is the madness of genius.” - Alexander Herzen

If you’re a fan of kosher riverboat cruises, we cannot help but recommend visiting the city of Venice, Italy as your next destination. Here you can marvel about the grandeur of La Serenissima, and the interesting facts and stories that its architecture and cultures tell us. Grab your map of Venice and let’s discover some wonderful facts about the Queen of the Adriatic.

No Cars Allowed in Venice

Cars are not allowed nor any wheels of any kind in the city proper, simply because the footbridges and cobbled alleyways are made for walking. The main transportations are boats - water taxis and gondolas of all sorts and shapes. But the experience is better than you think. It’s not that inconvenient once you get used to walking. Here you will discover that not worrying about cars, traffic lights, and crossing roads gives people a more relaxed pace. There’s no noise pollution and the air quality is better, which also explains the touristy and laid back atmosphere in the city. 

Venice Sinks 1-3 Milliliters/year

The city is an extremely low-lying area, with only 1 meter above elevation. The city’s vulnerable spot for flood has a lot of factors to consider, such as its geographical location, city structure, seasonal flood, and the most evident reason- effects of climate change. A fancier way to call the flooding is acqua alta, which means ‘high water’. Scientists claim that if not taken urgent action towards climate emergency, the beautiful city could go underwater by 2100.

City Stands on Wooden Planks

Venice is also known for the city’s engineering marvel, an entire group of land connected with bridges, and built atop wooden stilts! The old city structures were built around 402 A.D out of the need to create more space and accommodate new settlers. The beautiful houses and architecture you’ll see in Venice is still sitting on those 1000-year-old wood! So far, the wood was found out to be petrified over time and turned into stone.

Roads Are Narrow, Like a Maze

Thankfully the locals are used to tourists getting lost, and are probably expecting an inquiry or help on directions once or twice a day, depending on the peak tourist season. Travel forums recommend that getting lost is the best way to explore the lovely city- many unexpected corners can hold a magical view. So get away from the crowded tourists at the Piazza San Marco and explore the city’s underrated alleyways. 

Gondolas and Gondoliers

Don’t miss the Jewish cruise experience in Venice without riding on a gondola. Touring around the city with a trusted gondolier is the ultimate way to go around the city as a tourist. You can say being a gondolier is as prestigious as receiving a Michelin star - there are only 3-4 new gondoliers welcomed every year.

An adventure to the waters of the Venetian Lagoon awaits. Write it at the top of your travel list and make that trip happen!

Best Destinations For Your 2021 Kosher Trip

 Have you been dreaming of a luxurious kosher touring these last couple of months as you stayed home? Well, us, too! Thinking about the thrill of our boat setting sail, making new friends, and simply taking in the sights - it’s all truly wonderful! And it’s definitely a shame to not be on board for now.

One good thing about it, though, is that you get to thoroughly plan out for when you do get to go on your kosher vacation, and one thing we can’t stress enough is choosing the right destination for your trip.

Spain and Portugal

City of Porto

Seeing Europe for the first time? As a Jewish traveler, you’re sure to appreciate the less-known historical sites around Spain and Portugal. Set in the relaxed Mediterranean charm of the climate, explore the history of your people with amazing spots such as the World Heritage City of Porto. Here you can find the Douro region, which was home to incredible landmark events and interesting people of the Jewish faith.

French Countryside

Normandy

Want to tour Europe but are looking for more meadows and floral fields? Then you should definitely explore the timeless beauty of the French countryside, especially Normandy. It’s a wonderful seat to take in the incomparable beauty of the Seine river while also learning more about your heritage. Many history-lovers know that Normandy had a major role during World War II, and visiting the area during your kosher heritage tours is bound to enrich your faith as well as your thirst for historical knowledge.

Vietnam and Cambodia

Mekong River

Not convinced of either? Maybe you should try exploring the amazing sites of Asia. While there are literally hundreds of gorgeous and interesting sights to behold, exploring the beauty of Vietnam and Cambodia is a fantastic idea. Not only are the two countries next to each other, but each is full of awe-inspiring, well-preserved sites from a time gone by. Additionally, since these are neighboring countries, you get to enjoy a nice leisurely cruise without any hassle along the famed Mekong river.

These are just some of the captivating places you can travel to during your kosher touring. Hopefully, our suggestions can help you decide on which locale to visit on your future adventures. When you’re ready to book that cruise, feel free to go on KosherRiverCruises.com!

Portable Kosher Snack Foods for your Future Travels

 It’s getting cold, isn’t it? The end of the year is often chilly, what with the advent of winter and all. Such times call for warm clothes and warmer meals, as the snow begins to fall and the winds begin to bring the winter’s cold. Times like these would have called for a vacation to somewhere warm. Sadly, Jewish trips of that sort wouldn’t be advisable until this pandemic has weakened and the world has sorted itself out. With that said, being prepared for a future trip can be quite exciting. What better way to kick out the blues of staying indoors than by imagining a future vacation to a warm and lush locale, like the Amazon river. Such a trip would require a good number of snacks to keep you nourished on your tours. Here are some kosher snack suggestions that you might like. Hey, if that trip is a few months away, why not prepare them now for your indoor picnics? 

The Spruce Eats’ Israeli Pita Bread

Bread! One of the first vegan foods that humanity has ever produced. If you want something that’s easy to prepare for but quite scrumptious and versatile, then this Israeli pita bread is just for you. Not only can you enjoy it as a side snack while traveling, you can also use it for falafels or other such dishes. 

Get it here: https://www.thespruceeats.com/israeli-pita-bread-2121767 

Jamie Geller’s Chewy Chocolate Chip Granola Bars 

Have you ever gone on Jewish tours with a somewhat empty stomach? Maybe you were craving something sweet as you basked in the history and heritage of your walks and travels. Well, with a great granola bar, your energy and enthusiasm will never be out of fuel again! 

Check out this delicious and portable kosher dish here:
https://jamiegeller.com/recipes/chewy-chocolate-chip-granola-bars/ 

What to See on a Kosher Trip to Normandy

 Away from the bustling city of Paris, Normandy is a quiet, middle-class area northernmost of France. This region is filled with a quaint but mysterious charm, with its cobblestone pavements, specialty shops, and distinct Northern French architecture that seems to preserve the face of France from as far as the medieval times.. But more than its sandy beaches, gardens and grand castles, Normandy also has something special: a rich history with the Jewish community, one that’s still thriving among the region’s biggest cities.

Let’s take a look on how the Normandy countryside could be the destination of your next kosher holiday.

Pay Tribute to the Remnants of Jewish Heritage During the War

Once you’ve visited the shores of Normandy,You can almost envision the Allied soldiers disembarking on the 50-mile stretch of sand, leading to the eventual liberation of Western Europe. This feat is not possible without the help of almost 65,000 British Jews serving in WWII. There are several memorial landmarks to pay respects to this historical achievement, such as the Battle of Normandy Museum in Bayeux, the Caen Memorial, the Utah Beach Museum, and the oldest Jewish heritage site in all of France - the Maison Sublime in Normandy’s biggest city, Rouen.

Explore the Growing Kosher Food Community

While kosher preparations in restaurants around these areas are still sparse, there are hidden kosher food gems spread out across Normandy, especially in the picturesque town of Deauville. This place has been an increasingly popular destination among kosher travelers in all of France. There’s some along the Avenue de la République; and some hotels like the Akhotel and Ak Resto Halavi.

There’s no other way to explore the beauty of Normandy, including the Seine, then booking glatt kosher tours on a riverboat cruise. Aside from the tours, there are meaningful activities to be done aboard to give you a holiday that you’ll definitely want to come back to. 

Temple Run: A Look to the Beauty of Khmer Architecture

 Perhaps one of the most unique architectural styles to exist in the world is the Khmer or Angkorian architecture. Most likely adopted from the Indian cut-rock architectures, these designs are put into emphasis specifically on temples or religious buildings since these structures are the only one made out of stones. This is compared to other dwellings and houses that are usually made of perishable materials such as wood. 

If you want to see this remarkable art and experience the real “temple run” on your next Jewish trip, Siem Reap in Cambodia is certainly the place to go to. Here are the places you surely have to visit:

The City of Temples, Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat, which translates to City/Capital of temples, is a complex of temples and is considered to be the largest religious monument in the world in terms of land area, measuring 162.6 hectares or 1.626 sq. km. 

This UNESCO World Heritage site is originally made to worship Vishnu, the Hindi god that protects and sustains the world, and in turn, the Khmer Empire. However, towards the end of the 12th century, the temple was slowly turned into a Buddhist temple, and because of this, it is also referred as a Hindu-Buddhist temple. 

It houses hundreds of impressive monuments ladled with intricate designs of bas relief. This ancient temple exemplifies the Khmer’s glorious heritage, culture, and religion. 

The Great City, Angkor Thom

If you are planning to go to Siem Reap for your next kosher vacation, you should not miss out on the great city.

Angkor Thom is not just called a great city because it is huge, it is called the great city because it was the last and the most enduring capital city of the Khmer Empire. established by the  late King Jayavaman VII during the late 12th century. 

In the middle of Angkor Thom is its most notable temple, Bayon, which is a state temple of Mahayana Buddhism. Just like Wat, Bayon is riddled with monuments, and features smiling and serene stone faces on the towers. It also has two bas reliefs that represent the cultural mythology of the Khmer and the history of the empire. 

2 Sumptuous Cheesy Kosher Recipes for Your Good Vibes

 What’s your favorite dish? There’s bound to be a dish that you’ve taken a shine to after all those lunches and dinners. With people staying indoors, it’s a good time to start practicing your culinary skills. After all, what’s a better way to spend your free time than to hone skills that make you productive and happy? 

There are plenty of culinary traditions all over the globe, and a good chunk of them are quite kosher. Some are even adapted and served aboard Jewish heritage tours. 

Cheese is a tasty ingredient in many such dishes, and can be chewy, savory, creamy, or anything in between. Here are a few tasty cheese-based recipes for you to try out for yourself at home. 

Kosher Cowboy’s Cassola Cheese Pancake

Cassola is a kind of Roman era cake, not to be confused with the pork-based cassoeula of Northern Italy. Cassola is a ricotta-based food that was regularly enjoyed during the Shavuot. Pancakes seem to be one of those universal foods that you can find anywhere around the world, and where there’s livestock, there’s dairy, meaning that there’s cheese of one kind or the other. Whether it’s for a holiday or not, these cheese pancakes are sure to brighten up your mealtimes. 

Check this recipe out here: https://koshercowboy.com/2017/12/05/cassola-cheese-pancake/ 

Cheese Lokshen Kugel (from the Book of Jewish Food via My Jewish Learning)

Do you have any physical cookbooks at home? While online recipes are easily accessible and quite engaging on their own (we’re compiling some right now), the act of physically reading a book is quite relaxing. This recipe is from one such book, the Book of Jewish Food, and was kindly reprinted with permission on My Jewish Learning’s website. We’re quite sure that it and other great kosher cuisine can be experienced fully while on Jewish tours, but until it’s safe to travel again, let’s enjoy some great food indoors. 

Get the recipe here: https://www.myjewishlearning.com/recipe/cheese-lokshen-kugel/ 

A Collection of Hebrew Manuscripts on Emilia-Romagna

 A Glatt Kosher tour in Northern Italy, especially in the administrative region of Emiglia-Romagna, might be just the adventure that you’re looking for.  It is rich in historical Jewish sites and the government is investing a lot in reviving the Jewish heritage of the region, turning the almost forgotten population into a well-known historical landmark. Among the unearthed relics of the region are three Hebrew manuscripts. 

De Rossi Collection from Parma

The De Rossi Collection is one of the greatest and largest collections of Hebrew manuscripts and incunabula. It consisted of over 1,612 manuscripts that are shown and illuminated in the Palatine Library in Parma. 

Hebrew Manuscripts from Book Binds in Modena

During the 1970’s, scholars found out that fragments used as book-binding material in the 16th and 17th century are actually Hebrew manuscripts and parchments. Over 8,000 fragments are found in Italy, with 4,800 fragments found on the Emilia-Romagna alone. 

One of the biggest collections was found in Nonantola, a town near Modena, and consisted of biblical manuscripts, halachic texts, and sections of Mishnah, Talmud, kabbalah, and other scientific materials.

Modena’s Estense Library holds an archive of 60 illuminated Hebrew manuscripts while the Archivio Storico Comunale has 126 books that contain 273 fragments. Further discoveries found that over 350 sheets of Babylonian Talmud and fragments of Talmudic and biblical commentaries were located in the region.

The Oldest Complete Torah Scroll in Bologna

The oldest complete Torah scroll was discovered sitting at the University of Bologna last 2013.  Just like other Torah scrolls, it contains the full texts of the five books of Moses in Hebrew. It was only recently discovered because in 1889, the cataloguer, Leonelle Modona, had dated the scroll to the 17th century. 

Professor Mauro Perani, the one who discovered the 800-year old scroll, said that even without the carbon-dating, the clues found on the scroll says that it is made before the end of the 12th century. This is because Maimonides, one of the most famous rabbinical authorities in the medieval era, set a standard for copying Torah scrolls at the end of the 12th century, and the scroll showed that the copyist is not aware of the rules. This only meant two things; either the scroll was made before the death of Maimonides, or the copyist had not learned or known the rules.

Our history and culture still have a lot to offer, and still has a lot to discover. Who would even think of finding manuscript fragments in book bindings? 

Well, if you are interested in our heritage, why not go on a Kosher river cruise in the future? Travel worry-free while immersing yourself in the beauty of our culture.

Theodor Herzl and the Birth of Zionism

 When embarking on a Jewish travel through Budapest, you might see a huge black sign with gold lettering saying “Here was the house where Theodore Herzl was born”. Dubbed as the “Modern Moses”, Herzl’s gave birth to the modern Zionism movement, putting into motion a grand scheme that would later create the Jewish state. 

Budapest, Hungary

Let’s know him better by exploring his life.

From a Playwright and a Journalist to a Zionist Leader

Theodor Herzl was born on May 2, 1980 at Budapest, Hungary. Coming from a well-off family, he first studied at a scientific secondary school but later transferred to escape from the antisemitic atmosphere of the area. He then took up law at University of Vienna and received his license to practice law in 1884. However, he devoted his career to literature and journalism and became the literary editor for a newspaper in Viennese, Neue Freie Presse. 

Being able to experience antisemitic violence first hand, Herzl’s first solution was to make Jews mass convert to Christianity. He later found out that this is not effective for two reasons; one is that Jews are not down to convert, and secondly, he found that the problem involved more than religion, that the problem focuses on Jewish people as a whole. 

The last straw that made Hertzl think that antisemitism couldn’t be defeated by conventional means was the Dreyfus affair, where an innocent Jewish man was falsely accused of stealing French military documents and giving it to the Germans. This gave birth to Zionism.

The Zionist Congress

Believing that antisemitism could only be eradicated by establishing a state for all Jewish people, Hertzl worked hard to make the first Zionist congress happen and wrote his book “DerJudenstaat” (The Jewish State). Despite the negative feedback and backlash he experienced from critics and even rabbis denouncing his ideals, the first congress eventually happened in August of 1897 in Basel, Switzerland. 

After gaining the support of the Jewish masses and several higher-ups, internationally, he requested an audience and created diplomatic ties with the Turkish sultan. He disseminated his plans to receive a charter, which is the right for Jews to settle in Israel, and was later granted by the sultan. 

During the first Zionist congress, Hertzl wrote on his journal,  “at Basel, I established the Jewish estate. “If I said this out loud today, I would be answered by universal laughter. Perhaps in five years, certainly in 50, everyone will realize it”. Half a century after his death, working greatly for his Zionist dream to come true, the independent state of Israel was founded.

Retracing the steps made by our ancestors and seeing the impact they’ve left may impose some difficulties. That is why a perfect plan for a future Kosher Vacation is cruising through the Danube river, where we travel from Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna, up to the Wachau Valley.

Plant-based Kosher Meals to Spice Up Your Dinners with Vegan Options

 So, how’s your week been?  We hope that you’re doing great. While our outdoor options are kind of limited as of the moment, our indoor chances to do productive things have been quite many. One can learn so much when you spend your free time well indoors. You could do embroidery, painting, or any other great hobby when you’re not participating in Zoom meetings or such. One thing that we’ve been doing in this time of lockdown is cooking. Missing the great kosher recipes served in kosher resorts? Practice your culinary skills and make your own indoors!

The good thing about vegan cuisine is that, barring some ingredients with dubious origins, its plant-based composition makes it quite kosher, and there’s a variety of vegan dishes that you might enjoy. Here’s a few that we’ve compiled below. Dig in!

Apple Pistachio Cake (From Jewish Food Hero)

Have you ever tried pistachio nuts? Well, maybe you might have savored pistachio ice cream in the past, but pistachio as a nut works well with different kinds of dessert, such as cake. This Apple Pistachio Cake recipe from Jewish Food Hero is wholly vegan and can be great for a future Passover seder. 

Get it here: https://jewishfoodhero.com/kosher-for-passover-vegan-apple-pistachio-cake/#recipe

Mushroom Spinach Pinwheels (by Eileen Goltz from OU Kosher) 

Mushroom and spinach have a great salty taste to them that we think are quite underrated in many forms of cuisine. So, combining both of them into a pinwheel snack is quite delightful. Eileen Goltz presents this scrumptious mushroom spinach pinwheel recipe that’s sure to make you glad and feel full before, during, and after your Zoom meetings. 

Get it here: https://oukosher.org/recipes/mushroom-spinach-pinwheels/

Want some great recipes, or news about future kosher riverboat cruises? Visit Kosher River Cruises for some great kosher cuisine options and delicious Jewish history tidbits. 

Feel Like You Need a Creativity Boost? Here’s a Few Great Kosher Recipes!

 It’s easy to lose your motivation when all your daily routine has been significantly hampered by the fact that we can’t go out as often as we want to. With that said, some places have begun easing up on restrictions by implementing social distancing measures (If you’re living somewhere with a park, then you might even be able jog and get some fresh air.) Sadly, international travel is still discouraged, and it’ll take a while before you go on Jewish trips and kosher cruises. Plus, half a year of staying indoors can take a toll on your creativity and focus. One good way to shake you up from that inactive funk is by cooking. Making food is a process, one that guarantees a satisfying conclusion to your efforts. Here is an assortment of kosher recipes to get your noggin’ going. 

Fancy Zucchini Roll Ups (Meat) by from the Jewish Hostess

If you want something savory without compromising on good crunchy veggies, this kosher recipe might be right up your alley. There are a variety of meals that are basically meat rolled into pastries, but for a change, why not a vegetable? If you want something new, try this out. 

Get the recipe here. http://www.thejewishhostess.com/zuchinni-rullups-stuffed-with-meat/ 

Sephardic-Style Haroset Bites (Parve, Vegan) by May I Have this Recipe

There’s a variety of great Sephardic or Sephardic-style Jewish food. Some are prepared specifically for certain holidays, while others have an interesting history to them (really, the alheira is a pretty cool sausage that you should read up on, but I digress.) These Haroset bites from Vicky and Ruth might be the sweet snack that you need to get back into your creative state of mind. 

Get it here: https://mayihavethatrecipe.com/not-just-for-passover-recipes-sephardic-style-haroset-bites/

Want to prepare for upcoming kosher touring experiences? Visit KosherRiverCruises.com! 

2021 Jewish Tours - Upcoming Travels to Watch Out For

 The ongoing global crisis has forced most business operations into a temporary standstill, resulting in establishments lacking in resources, especially new ones, to permanently close. As expected, the tourism industry is badly affected, with travel bans being implemented worldwide. However, many businesspersons remain resilient in fighting back to avoid being completely shut down. 

As the tourism industry slowly starts to regain its footing, people are hopeful about finally going on a trip soon. On that note, one of the anticipated tourism activities is the Jewish tours, where people can either travel around following Jewish customs, or experience and gain an extensive understanding of the Jewish diet, culture, and history.

Learn more about the upcoming Jewish tours to join in.

Kosher Cruises

Come aboard luxurious Kosher cruise ships to go on a sea journey you will never forget. Experience the Jews' strict dietary standards as you enjoy delicious Kosher cuisine while traveling to different captivating tourist spots. 

Below are three of the many upcoming Kosher cruises:

1. Mekong River Cruise (June 14-24, 2021)
   This nine-day expedition aims to cruise through Vietnam and Cambodia by visiting heritage sites, like in Binh Thanh Island in Vietnam and Phnom Penh in Cambodia, which are not frequented by tourists. Furthermore, this cruise trip has an optional post-tour to Siem Reap, Cambodia, for three days.
2. Cruising Through the Netherlands (August 3-10, 2021)
   Lasting for eight days, this Kosher cruise trip will circle the Netherlands' canals, from Amsterdam to Amsterdam, to pass by sites where Jewish history took place in Belgium and Holland. 
3. Douro River Cruise (October 12-19, 2021)
   While aboard the MS Douro Serenity, this river tour will go through Portugal and Spain within eight days. This cruise aims to explore the proud culture and history of the mentioned countries as part of Europe.

Jewish Heritage Land Tours

If floating atop water bodies for days doesn't sound ideal, you should opt for Jewish heritage tours on land instead. Learn more about Jewish culture and history by visiting heritage sites in these upcoming tours:

Below are three of the many upcoming Jewish heritage tours:

1. The Magic of Morocco Imperial Cities (November 3-12, 2021)
   Experience a 10-day Kosher trip around the imperial cities of Morocco. Encounter ancient wonders, medieval buildings, exotic artifacts, and many many more.
2. Kosher Vacation the Golden Triangle of India (November 30-December 10, 2020)
   Visit India's Golden Triangle and experience its culture while learning about the country's unknown Jewish heritage sites.
3. Heritage Journey Through Latvia, Lithuania, and Belarus (March 3-10, 2021)
   This eight-day tour will explore the Jewish legacies in these places, which have been occupied by Jews for more than 700 years. Go through Jewish heritage sites from Kovno, Minsk, Mir, Novardok, Slonim, and Vilna.

Conclusion

Planning for trips always brings bouts of intense excitement that is difficult to hold in. It is understandably a common reaction to plans; however, unexpected incidents might cause plans to get canceled, especially now, when everyone is greatly affected by the pandemic. While nobody knows when the world will go back to normal, people must keep an open mind to cancellation and rescheduling possibilities.

Kosher Holiday Recipes To Recreate At Home

Do you miss having your annual Jewish travel? Me too. Well, if you want to have a taste of Glatt Kosher Holidays or you just want to experience great tasting kosher meals, continue reading, because here are some recipes that we collated on the internet that will BLOW YOUR MIND!

Miriam Szokovski's Melt-In-Your-Mouth Brisket

Do you eat brisket every Rosh Hashanah? Well, this recipe from chabad.org is perfect for a kitchen recreation! A sugar-free, low-carb, and gluten-free 60-minute recipe, Miriam’s Melt-In-Your-Mouth Brisket will take you back to when you were having large family gatherings every Jewish holiday celebration.

Click this link to learn more about the recipe: https://www.chabad.org/recipes/recipe_cdo/aid/2695302/jewish/Miriams-Melt-In-Your-Mouth-Brisket.htm

Roasted Acorn Squash with Tahini, Pistachios and Pomegranate

Long name? Well, this recipe is something to be remembered. The Jewish Food Experience’s Roasted Acorn Squash with Tahini, Pistachios and Pomegranate is a gluten-free, vegetarian, and nutritious recipe that health-conscious kosher food lovers will surely love to recreate. Whether it is a holiday or just a regular dinner, putting this meal on the table will surely be a kitchen grand slam!

Check the recipe out by visiting this link: https://jewishfoodexperience.com/recipes/roasted-acorn-squash-tahini-pistachios-pomegranate/

Holiday Apple-Raisin Challah

Every Jewish holiday, especially Rosh Hashanah, is not complete without a satisfying dessert. While in the safety of your home, why not recreate Epicurious’ Holiday Apple-Raisin Challah for your next meal? With so much time at home, the 4 hours and 45 minutes prep and cooking will be fulfilling. Imagine this - apples, raisins, and honey embracing your taste buds - delectable.

Recreate this recipe by checking this link: https://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/holiday-apple-raisin-challah-368069

Are you ready for more kosher recipes? Visit our website today. It will be a treat!

Best River Cruises in Europe This 2021

 Clicking on this article means you are already planning for your European Jewish vacation next year! Well, who wouldn’t love to travel the world after this coronavirus pandemic subsides, right? If you are looking for great destinations to go to, continue reading (and book a cabin too, they’re selling out fast!).

Normandy-Seine (Northern France)

We can not talk about European river cruises without mentioning France! After all, we all LOVE Paris and French kosher food. Join Kosher River Cruises on a Glatt kosher holidays extravaganza this 2021 on its Normandy-Seine River Cruise. This trip is like no other, why? First, the destinations will be immersive and unforgettable. And second, you’ll learn about Jewish heroism through the river cruises’ onboard lectures.

Here are the locations included during the seven-day cruise: Paris, Conflans, Les Andelys, Rouen, Honfleur, Caudebec-En-Caux, and Vernon.

Douro (Spain & Portugal)

Besides France, Spain and Portugal are two of Europe’s gems. So if you want to experience the wonders of the Iberian Peninsula, you’re very welcome to join Kosher River Cruises’ Douro River Cruise. Home to the Sephardic Jews, walking through the landmarks and destinations during this trip will take you back in time. Visit heritage cities like Salamanca, taste the wine of Porto, and bring home souvenirs, photographs, and memories.

Here are the locations included during the seven-day cruise: Porto, Regua, Vega de Terron, Salamanca, Barca d’Alva, and Pinhao.

Danube (Central Europe)

If you’re looking for a romantic and tranquil river cruise that’s not in France or Iberian Peninsula, the Danube River Cruise by Kosher River Cruises is the best choice for you! At the very heart of the European continent, you’ll explore various cities from three different countries. Experience unique kosher food, welcoming cultures, and majestic sites during this cruise. Can you imagine having a journey on a floating five-star hotel? Well, book a cabin today!

Here are the locations included during the seven-day cruise: Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna, Wachau Valley, Mauthausen, Linz, and Passau.

How the Jews Came to Vietnam

 When you think about Jewish travel, perhaps, the first thought that pops in your mind would be backpacking in Spain, a cruise in France, or a visit to The Netherlands.

Did you know that Southeast Asia can also offer a one-of-a-kind Jewish experience?

Yes, you read that right! Southeast Asia, especially Vietnam, holds A bit of Jewish influence that awaits you in an all-new and exciting adventure. Let’s take a look at Vietnam and see how the Jews made their mark in the south east.

Mekomg River Vietnam

Early Jewish Presence in Vietnam

In the 19th Century, the Nguyen Dynasty ruled Vietnam, and during this period, people from the west visited the said territory. It was during this time that the first Jews arrived in Vietnam.

Most of the Jews came to Vietnam following the French occupation of the country. Saigon, a famous city in Vietnam, was frequently mentioned in some issues of The Jewish Chronicle, which proved the existence of a community in the 1860s and 1870s.

Trade was also one of the reasons behind the presence of the Jews in Vietnam. The Mekong River, which traverses all across Southeast Asia, was a busy trade route during that time.

The Jews during the Vietnam War

Several Jews who enlisted in the United States Army took part in the infamous Vietnam War.

During this time, several Jewish communities were also established temporarily in the southern part of Vietnam. When the war was over, some of them returned to America, while others stayed for good, and soon, started their own families in Vietnam.

Jews in Vietnam Today

In Ho Chi Minh City, the present day Jewish Community has its own Chabad House. There are about 150 Jews living in the capital of Vietnam alone.

To reminisce the experiences of the early Jewish traders in the region, try a tour in the Saigon River and enjoy its serene waters, or strike a pose by some well-preserved ancient bridges in Hoi An.

Who would have thought that Vietnam holds such an incredible fragment of Jewish history, thousands of miles from the heart of Jewish history?

Mekong River Kosher Cruise

Visit Vietnam for your next Kosher vacations! Hẹn gặp lại!

Let’s “Ghent” It On!: Top 3 Spots To Visit in Ghent, Belgium

Belgium is more than just beer and chocolates. It also has a rich history dating back to medieval times. If you’re planning to learn more about medieval Europe, then Ghent is the best place for you to visit!

Ghent, one of the oldest cities in Belgium, has been a hot spot for trade during medieval Europe. Today, you can revisit the medieval times of Ghent as its iconic sites and wonders are well-preserved, as if time had not flowed. 

Here are the top 3 places to visit in Ghent through some Kosher Europe tours!

1. The Belfry

A UNESCO World Heritage Sight, the Belfry of Ghent stands tall and mighty in the heart of the city. The Belfry has long been the symbol of power and a reminder of the city’s glory days of trade and commerce.

It stands about 300 feet, and is a part of the cloth hall, Ghent’s primary marketplace in the old days where Flemish cloth, textiles, carpets, and similar goods were traded. It was also used for public announcements, especially during celebrations and festivities. However, it also witnessed wars and attacks as it also served as a warning device, alerting the citizens of impending danger.

Complete your Glatt Kosher holidays with an Instagram-worthy shot by this iconic piece of medieval architecture!

2. Gravensteen Castle

Built in 1180, the Gravensteen Castle is also known as the “Castle of the Counts” and has witnessed several turning points in the city’s history.

Initially, it served as the seat of the Count of Flanders. Eventually, it became a prison, a courthouse, and a storage house. Today, it has been restored to its former look, and has been converted into a museum.

The museum boasts a wide collection of medieval artifacts. Brace yourselves as this collection includes torturing devices used during trials and public executions. You can find a guillotine, a torture chair, and the famous “Mask of Shame” in this collection.

Want to get a breather from all the intimidating pieces of the collection? Climb up the central keep for a bird’s eye view of the entire city!

3. Graslei and Korenlei

Listed as the most beautiful medieval waterfront in all of Europe and the best spot in the city, Graslei and Korenlei is a place for community gatherings, food, trade, and more!

Graslei and Korenlei occupy both sides of the River Lys, and if you can get the perfect timing along with the right weather, a reflection of the medieval structures that are preserved until this very day can be seen on the surface of the river.

On special days, people gather here to socialize or to celebrate events. Truly, this is a great place to spend the Glatt Kosher holidays!

Don’t get too overwhelmed, as you don’t want to miss trying a boat ride along the river and canals which connect several parts of Graslei and Korenlei with the rest of the city.

Adventure is out there! Visit Ghent through some Kosher Europe tours soon!

Say Hello to Holland!: 3 Must-see Places

Beds of tulips, magnificent windmills, charming cities, and picture-perfect provinces–Holland is home to countless adventures, both in urban spaces and the countryside.

Aside from its beautiful landscapes, Holland has also witnessed rich Jewish history dating back to the 11th and 12th centuries. If you want to learn more about Jewish culture, visiting Holland will surely reward you with priceless knowledge and unforgettable experiences.

Once it’s already safe to travel, go on some great Jewish heritage tours through Holland!

Here are 3 must-see places in Holland.

1. Giethoorn

Dubbed as “The Venice of the Netherlands”, Giethoorn is a small town, having only an approximated 2,600 residents. With 3 miles of canals, wooden arch bridges, and bike lanes, this peaceful place is truly Instagram-worthy and a famous destination for Jewish cruises.

Located about 120 km northwest of Amsterdam, Giethoorn attracts tourists from all over Europe and is gaining much popularity around Asia. Due to its prominence as a tourist site, it has been included in the 80th anniversary Monopoly “world edition” board game.

If you visit during the winter, the canals get frozen, which invites locals and tourists to try ice skating. Don’t forget to strike a pose in front of an 18th century thatched farmhouse for your Instagram feed!

2. Volendam

Holland’s iconic fishing village, Volendam boasts of its well-preserved Dutch ships from the old days, a legacy of how fishing thrived in the village.

Its old harbours are popular with colorful establishments, and is often comparable to a real-life artwork. Several trips and tours such as Jewish cruises include this one-of-a-kind village in its stops.

Local museums featuring the history of the fishing village can also be visited. Tourists may also try wearing traditional Volendam clothing for a complete experience. Once you’re in the place, be sure to stop by the local markets to see the hustle and bustle of a typical day at Volendam.

3. De Hoge Veluwe National Park

As a “flat region”, there are a lot of nature parks in Holland. One of these is the De Hoge Veluwe National Park.

Photo Credit: en.visittheotherholland.com

Stretching over 13,343 acres, this national park is home to rare wildlife and the rich flora of the region. Enjoy biking through nature trails or walking along the forest, among many other activities that you could explore. 

Once you’ve been captivated by the beauty of Holland’s natural resources, get captivated even more by visiting the Kröller-Müller museum, still located inside the national park, for an awesome collection of Van Gogh’s 19th and 20th century artworks.

With Giethoorn, Volendam, and the De Hoge Veluwe National Park, Holland is truly filled with adventure of all sorts.

Say hello to Holland by joining Jewish heritage tours soon!

What Are Some Great Things to Experience on a Trip Along the Douro River?

The Iberian Peninsula is a beautiful slice of Europe, a wedge-shaped landmass in between France and the northern parts of Africa, a temperate locale full of history and heritage. While it's not advisable to go on international trips at the moment (what with the current pandemic and all), you can always schedule a great kosher vacation through this beautiful landmass in the future, when the world becomes cleaner and safer for travel.

One of the best places for a kosher cruise in the Iberian Peninsula is through the Douro Valley region of Portugal, a lovely wine region full of luxury and culture. Here are some of the things you should expect when traveling along the Douro River in Portugal.

Delicious Wine and Food

The Douro Valley, as mentioned above, is a prosperous and bountiful wine region. A variety of vineyards flank the golden waters of the Douro River, something that you can gaze at from the deck of a majestic river boat. The Douro Region is also home to Port wine, a delicious beverage from Porto, the dock city that occupies the mouth of the River. 

Portugal is also the birthplace of a variety of delicious Sephardic kosher cuisine, such as alheirah, and a trip through the Douro Valley is not complete without a few dinners of these great meals. 

Immersive Heritage Tours

The Sephardic Jews of the Iberian Peninsula have left behind a long and rich history in the region, and in the Douro Valley alone, their legacy can be explored to the fullest. From the synagogues and Jewish quarters in towns and cities along the river, to the living descendants of Crypto-Jews still thriving in their own communities, a kosher tour through the Douro Valley region is bound to be one of enriching historical experiences. Not only can you enjoy a luxurious river boat cruise, but you can also immersive yourself on the heritage and history of the Sephardic Jews. 

What Can You Experience on a Kosher Holiday to Budapest?

The Danube River winds through the center of Europe, the second longest waterway of that great continent. Along the river is a variety of European capital cities, from Vienna to Belgrade. While vacations outside of one’s country is not advisable at the moment, there will be time in the future where the pandemic will subside, and kosher river cruises through Europe’s wonderful travel destinations will be possible once more.

Budapest is the capital of the country of Hungary, a sprawling city with the remnants of older days still standing tall in its scenic skyline. The Danube River cuts through the center of Budapest like the red carpet of a museum, letting the passengers of a river cruise immerse themselves in the history and heritage that can be explored in the Hungarian capital. For a Jewish travel audience, here’s a few things that you can expect. 

A Variety of Synagogues

From the large Dohany Synagogue (also known as the Great Synagogue of Budapest, the second-largest synagogue in the world) to the elegantly-designed Kazinczy Street Synagogue, Budapest has a variety of well-restored synagogues that you can visit and explore. A good number of them are museums that store important relics of Jewish heritage in Europe, but a lot of them are still active centers of religious activity.

A Rich and Complicated History

Chain Bridge Budapest

Like many places in Europe, there had been records that showed an active Jewish presence in the urban life of Budapest even before the medieval era, around the 11th Century. The Jews of Budapest (back when the city was two separate towns called Buda and Pest) contributed to the trade of the area, and despite the various persecutions and calls for expulsion, they managed to establish an enduring legacy, as shown by the activity of its many synagogues. If you’re looking for a future kosher holiday, consider going to Hungary. 

What Makes this Jewish Vacation Environment-friendly

Preserving the earth and taking care of all life forms is strongly emphasized in Jewish teachings. This is explained in the Jewish concept of bal tashchit which translates to “do not destroy”. If you want to explore Jewish heritage and experience a holistic approach to Jewish culture and traditions with compassion for Mother Nature, then an environment-friendly Jewish vacation is the right thing for you!

Take a look at some of the policies of this Jewish tour in line with their commitment to sustainability.

1. Paperless Transactions
   
   From checking out our tour packages, booking your trip, and requesting for your cruise documents, Kosher River Cruises have shifted to the digital format. Not only does this save more time and offer convenience, it also makes a big difference for the environment. 
   
   
2. Energy-efficient Shipping Technology
   
   With cutting-edge technology, our fleet of modern cruise ships are equipped with a smart recycling system for our wastewater, solar energy and aerodynamic ship design for reduced air resistance leading to lesser power consumption, and a sustainable climate-control system. This is to ensure that the environment is not compromised while guests enjoy their Jewish vacation. 
   
   
3. No to Single-Use Plastics
   
   Plastics thrown into bodies of water degrade through time and release harmful chemicals, and can either be ingested by marine animals or trap aquatic life forms. By 2050, the number of plastics could outweigh the population of fishes in the ocean if no course of action is taken. As you cruise in your Jewish tours through the Danube or Seine, remove your stress and worries just as we have banned the use of plastic bags, straws, water bottles, and plastic utensils–common single use plastics that often end up in waterways.

Cliché as it may sound, but we should leave nothing but footprints in every vacation location that we enjoy, to help ensure that the sites we visit are preserved for the next generation to admire and experience. For sustainable Jewish tours, check out Kosher River Cruises and start planning your next vacation!

2 Great International Recipes You Can Prepare Kosher

When people went on Jewish trips around the world before the pandemic hit, there was always the concern that the local food was not kosher, and therefore something that they could not enjoy, barring themselves from experiencing the local flavor. 

As 2020 continues to surprise us and with most of our community staying indoors, the dietary options of Jewish travelers might seem strange to bring up. However, staying indoors gives people a lot of time to spare, and we’ve discovered that there’s actually a lot of different cultural dishes from around the world that are kosher, or at least easy enough to turn kosher. Here are three great recipes from around the world that you can prepare for yourself.

Alu Vadi/Pathrode of India

A lot of vegetarian cuisines are quite kosher, from ratatouille to the non-meat variants of banh mi. Alu Vadi or Pathrode of India is one such cuisine, a kind of plant-based snack made from colocasia leaves. Dassana Amit of Veg Recipes of India presents this easy to follow the recipe for you to try your own pathrode at home. You might have to wait before you can go on Glatt Kosher Tours through India, but you can sample great kosher Indian cuisine today. Just be careful with the taro though. The recipe even gives the option to replace it with spinach leaves. 

https://www.vegrecipesofindia.com/alu-vadi-patra-pathrode-recipe/

Apple Strudel from Austria

The original homeland of this recipe is not too far removed from the ancestral homes of some European Jews, some of its ingredients (pig lard or ostensibly kosher meat paired with dairy bread) made it inadvisable to eat. However, this did not mean that there weren’t strudel variants that could be eaten safely by Jews, especially when this recipe is easy to modify. In the link below, Leah Barzel of Kosher.com provides a great and tasty apple strudel recipe, one that you can use to warm those cold nights with something sweet and toasty to partake in.

https://www.kosher.com/recipe/apple-strudel-442

Places to Visit on a Post-Pandemic Kosher Europe Tour

The world still feels like it's under lockdown, with most of the population told to stay at home. However, despite the dire situation, it’s still important to look to the future. In time, this pandemic will end, and it will be safe to travel far and wide again. The economy will heal and friends and family can gather together once more without fear of infection. 

One way to orient oneself towards a positive outlook is by mapping out one’s plans for the future, whether it's to get oneself a new car, set up one’s own business (when it’s possible to, of course) or complete a travel itinerary. If you’re inclined towards Kosher Europe tours, here’s a few great travel destinations that you can add to your future travel itinerary.  

 

Salamanca, Spain

Plaza Mayor

Salamanca is an old university city in Spain, home of one of the oldest universities in the West. While ostensibly a Christian city that attracts hundreds of international students each year, Salamanca, like most of the major cities in Spain, has a Jewish quarter, along with other remnants of Sephardic Jewish heritage. Salamanca was also the birth city of Abraham Zacuto, whose contributions to astronomy helped explorers like Vasco de Gama map the stars and chart paths across the sea. 

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Canal City

Amsterdam is well known for many things. As the capital of the Netherlands, Amsterdam is a bustling city of artistry, commerce and learning. It was also once the safe haven of Sephardic Jews who fled Spain following the 1492 Expulsion. Here, they found relative prosperity and rebuilt their commercial and cultural advancements, to the point that they even had a printing press. Amsterdam was also the home of Jewish diarist Anne Frank, whose legacy is preserved in the Anne Frank House in the innermost part of the city. If you’re interested in a future Glatt Kosher tour of Europe, be sure to add Amsterdam to your list. 

What Are Some Great Places for Kosher Vacations Once the Pandemic Subsides?

“Travel” has become a word to wince at, in the current climate. Whether it be going to leisurely kosher resorts or a simple car ride to the grocery store, the concept of moving to and fro, point A to point B in the outside world becomes this scary, dangerous thing. Fear and uncertainty have become commonplace, but there is always hope for tomorrow, and cultivating this hope can help us get through this anxious time together. 

Think about a place that you’ve always wanted to visit on a kosher vacation. While you can’t go there now, you can certainly add them to your future travel itinerary. What better way to defy the uncertainty of today than by making plans for a tomorrow that will come, sooner or later? Here are some of our suggestions.

Lisbon, Portugal

The Iberian Peninsula has a long and complex history with the Sephardic Jews, from their less than ideal time with the Visigoths to their relative prosperity under the Umayyad Caliphate (in an era that is considered a Golden Age) to their gradual decline in influence under the peninsula’s monarchs, culminating in the Expulsion from Spain in 1492 and the subsequent expulsion in Portugal a few years later. Lisbon is but one city in the Iberian Peninsula that has a rich Jewish history, from its highs and lows. If you want a place full of museums and relics of Iberian Jewish heritage, add Lisbon to your future itinerary. 

Bratislava, Slovakia

This European Capital can be found along the Danube River, which connects several other great European cities with its beautiful winding waters. This place is the site of the Chatam Sofer Memorial, the burial place of a prominent Orthodox rabbi named Moses Sofer. There are many places in Europe that can provide you with rich Jewish history, but we chose Bratislava for being relatively under the radar among kosher vacation spots. 

Great Places for Jewish Heritage Tours Post-COVID-19

The Celebration of Pesach for this year has been quite different, and Shavuot and other future holidays might also be spent indoors. Quite different from how we traditionally celebrate them, but for the safety of our family and friends, we have to reduce the spread of the current pandemic. 

The new normal of 2020 has been stressful for some, and enforcement of social distancing can be frustrating for others. However, one thing to keep in mind is that like all earthly things, the current pandemic will one day pass, either through natural means or via a vaccine. When this happens, we can all celebrate Pesach freely once more, and go on Jewish travel vacations with our loved ones. You can even plan out your own travel itinerary so that you always have a future post-COVID-19 in mind, a future when this pandemic subsides. 

What are some interesting places to visit?

The Iberian Peninsula

Discharge of the Douro into the Atlantic Ocean near Porto.
Photo Credit: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iberian_Peninsula

This is a very broad category, encompassing many great locales of Jewish heritage in Portugal and Spain. Iberia was once where the Golden Age of Spanish Jews took place, with various advances in Jewish scholarship from the 7th Century to the 10-12th centuries. There’s Porto, Portugal and it’s Kadoorie Mekor Haim Synagogue, Salamanca where Abraham Zacuto once dwelled, and other locales of note to visit.

Budapest, Hungary 

Budapest Chain Bridge

The Danube river connects several capital cities in Europe. One of them is Budapest, in Hungary, a place with a long and complex history with Jewish people. From the 11th Century onwards, the Jews of the towns of Buda and Pest experienced shifting levels of tolerance, being allowed to trade and thrive for a few decades, then facing expulsion for a few more. When Buda and Pest unified to become Budapest, the Jews of the newly-unified city gradually entrenched themselves in its culture, to the point that today it has the largest population of Jews in Eastern Europe. This old Hungarian city would be a great place to visit on your future Jewish Heritage tours.