There’s bound to be confusion when a name is shared.  We hope you are familiar with ARZA – the Association of Reform Zionists of America.  ARZA is the Zionist arm and voice of the Reform Movement in the United States, endeavoring to make Israel fundamental to the sacred lives and Jewish identity of Reform Jews. As a Zionist organization, ARZA champions activities that further enhance Israel as a pluralistic, just and democratic Jewish state.  In that vein, ARZA is also a primary supporter and champion of the Reform Movement in Israel – the Israel Movement for Progressive Judaism (IMPJ) and the Israel Religious Action Center (IRAC).

In over 30 years of existence, ARZA has learned the importance of creating hands-on experiences in Israel that lead to lifelong relationships with the country.  There is simply nothing like experiencing Israel first hand to build a deep connection.  In ARZA’s early years, Reform Jews came to us often seeking help planning their trips.  Soon it became clear that we needed to turn this important job over to experts in Israeli tourism.  Today, ARZA licenses the “ARZA” name to the Israeli company, Da’At Travel for its operations in the U.S.  As ARZA World Travel, they are the leading tour operator to Reform groups and individuals visiting Israel (www.arzaworld.com).  While, there are many other excellent tour operators, ARZA has always been impressed with ARZA Worlds Travel’s understanding of progressive Judaism in Israel , its access to Jewish thinkers and leaders in the IMPJ and IRAC and its understanding of the aspects of visiting Israel that are important to Reform Jews.

ARZA’s newest licensing arrangement with ARZA WorldTravel demands that it provide outstanding service to its travelers.  ARZA would welcome any feedback you might have about your own experiences using ARZA World Travel on your recent visits.  Send your feedback to ARZA@arza.org.