AACI’s Kosher Philippines & Singapore
January 11-20, 2027 – Philippines
January 20-24, 2027- Singapore Extension
The Philippines
Embark on an unforgettable journey to the Philippines, where natural beauty, vibrant culture, and moving history intertwine.
From the dynamic energy of Manila, capital of the Philippines, to the breathtaking lagoons and limestone cliffs of El Nido, a true tropical paradise, and onward to Bohol, home to the iconic Chocolate Hills, pristine beaches, and close encounters with unique wildlife.
Along the way, we will explore the deep and often untold bond between the Filipino and the Jewish people during the Second World War, a legacy of courage, compassion, and shared humanity—making this not just a trip, but a powerful and inspiring experience.
Day 1 Monday January 11, 2027 – Manila
Welcome to Manila. Today we start our adventure in the Philippines.
Upon arrival we will meet our guide and welcoming staff.
Visit the American Battle Monument (American Cemetery) in Taguig containing the graves of 17,191 soldiers most of whom lost their lives in operations in New Guinea and the Philippines. We will locate the tomb stones with a “Magen David” symbol, indicating the grave of a Jewish soldier.
Next on the itinerary is Intramuros, the oldest district and historic core of Manila, also often referred to as the Walled City. We will view: Fort Santiago, a citadel first built by Spanish conquistador, Miguel López de Legazpi; the San Agustin Church’s magnificent Façade; the exterior of Manila Cathedral; and the Dungeons
Check in at the Peninsula Hotel
Dinner t the synagogue’s restaurant.
Day 2 – Tuesday, January 12, 2027 – Pagsanjan Falls
After shacharit and breakfast at the hotel, we will get wet while “shooting the rapids”. Please wear water-proof clothing (or swimwear) and water-proof footwear. It is recommended to bring a change of clothes and shoes. (Towels are provided at Pagsanjan)
Depart to Pagsanjan for a full-day tour.
Upon arrival, we will take a “bangka” (dugout canoe) upstream to reach the magnificent Pagsanjan Falls. Locals call the boat trip to Pagsanjan “Shooting the Rapids” which involves two skilled and accredited boatmen paddling upstream on a wooden or fiberglass canoe until you reach the falls. The return boat trip to town is the more thrilling downstream ride, through fourteen rapids.
Enjoy a panoramic view of other minor falls, lush vegetation and unique rock formations along the way. The boat ride has been an attraction since the Spanish colonial era, with the oldest 
surviving written account dating to 1894.
Break for lunch (boxed). Travel back to Manila for dinner at the synagogue’s restaurant.
In the evening enjoy the Okada Dancing Fountains.
Overnight at Peninsula hotel in Manila
In the evening enjoy the Okada Dancing Fountains – watch clip here
Overnight at Peninsula hotel in Manila
Day 3 – Wednesday, January 13, 2027 – Mt. Pinatubo
After shacharit and breakfast at the hotel we will depart to Clark Continue by road to Sapang Bato region, home to volcanic Mt Pinatubo and the Punning Hot Springs. You should bring comfortable clothes, swimwear plus a change of clothes. We recommend closed, non-slip, water-proof shoes.
Here we go on an exciting jeep ride, a thrilling and bumpy experience in the rugged terrain of the Mt. Pinatubo area, to the Puning hot springs. We will pass through spectacular views of what was left behind by the volcano’s catastrophic eruption: stunning rock formations, eruption debris, and canyons formed from mudflows. Our first stop is at the volcanic sand spa, where your body will be covered in warm sand (known to alleviate muscle pain), with an option for a facial or feet mud-pack treatment.
From here we continue our jeep ride through Pinatubo’s rugged landscape to Puning Hot Springs Resort, built right on the lahar along the foothills of the volcano. Stone steps lead to numerous pools of spring water heated naturally by the molten rocks. Enjoy the therapeutic effects of soaking your body in the warm waters and feel your aches fade away.
Afterwards, we take the jeep back to the station where we join our bus.
Packed lunch provided by the Jewish Community
Back to Manila.
Dinner at the synagogue’s restaurant.
Overnight at Peninsula hotel in Manila
Day 4 – Thursday, January 14, 2027 – Bohol
After shacharit and breakfast at the hotel we will fly to Bohol, a tranquil island province in the central Philippines, located in the Visayas region, just southeast of Cebu. It is characterized by a relaxed pace of life, a strong sense of local tradition, and a landscape shaped by rolling hills, rivers, farmland, and a long coastline.
Upon arrival, we will drive to the Tarsier Sanctuary in Bilar to view the world’s smallest primates up close. These tiny primates, that are about 3-6 inches tall and weigh around 100-150 grams, are known for their enormous eyes (each eye is as big as their brain!) and their ability to rotate their heads almost 180 degrees.
We will observe them clinging to tree branches or nestled in foliage during the day, as they are nocturnal creatures.
The sanctuary is a lush, forested area that mimics the tarsiers’ natural environment, ensuring they are comfortable and undisturbed.
If time permits, we will take a scenic cruise on the Loboc River
Check into the Belleview Resort to enjoy its facilities
Dinner at the Resort.
Day 5 – Friday, January 15, 2027 – Bohol
After shacharit and breakfast at the hotel we will drive through the man-made forest to the Chocolate Hills. The forest is a stunning 2-kilometer stretch of densely planted mahogany trees, which was planted in the 1960s as part of a reforestation project to address deforestation in the area. The trees are uniformly tall, with thick canopies that block much of the sunlight, creating a cool and shadowy atmosphere. The symmetry of the trees and the dappled light create a magical, almost surreal experience.
The Chocolate Hills consist of over 1,200 to 1,700 cone-shaped hills of similar size, spread over more than 50 square kilometers. They are nearly symmetrical and resemble large chocolate mounds, especially during the dry season.
Here we climb 220 easy stairs to the viewing deck of the area.
Back to the hotel to prepare for Shabbat
Candle lighting: 5:10 pm
Kabbalat Shabbat and seudat Shabbat at the Resort (catered by Chabad)
Day 6 – Shabbat, January 16, 2027 – Bohol
Coffee and cake before Tfilot.
Enjoy a beautiful Shabbat at the Belleview Resort with Tfillot, Shiurrim and activities.
Rest and relax at our luxury island getaway on a private beach.
Motzei Shabbat we will enjoy a Philippine culture show.
Day 7 – Sunday, January 17, 2027 – El Nido
Today we will fly to El Nido
After shacharit and breakfast at the hotel we will check out of the hotel to catch our flight to Manila
We will visit the National Museum of Anthropology or the National Museum of Natural History
Lunch will be at the synagogue’s restaurant. Thereafter, we will continue to our flight to El Nido.
Dinner at the resort
Day 8 – Monday, January 18, 2027 – El Nido
El Nido is an island known for its beautiful powdery white sand beaches and limestone rock formations. Among these are its lagoons. Today we are off to our discovery tour of El Nido, on our private boats.
After shacharit and breakfast at the hotel we will sail on a traditional outrigger boat, known locally as a Banka. The route will cover the number-one desirable destinations on the island – the beautiful lagoons and beaches, the 
stunning snorkeling and kayaking spots. This El Nido tour takes you to some of the most peaceful and beautiful spots in El Nido, including Helicopter Island, Small Lagoon, Cadlao Lagoon, and Paradise Beach. We will visit 3-4 destinations, depending on the weather and wind, each offering unique attractions and activities.
Small Lagoon: Enjoy the calm, crystal-clear waters of Small Lagoon. Perfect for kayaking and swimming, this spot offers a peaceful environment surrounded by towering limestone cliffs.
Paradise Beach: True to its name, Paradise Beach offers white sandy shores and clear blue waters. It’s an ideal spot for sunbathing and swimming, away from the crowds.
Natnat Beach: This secluded beach is perfect for those looking to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of Palawan. The serene atmosphere makes it a great place to relax and take in the scenery.
Lunch will be served at one of the beaches
Dinner at the resort
Day 9 – Tuesday, January 19, 2027 – Manila
After shacharit and breakfast at the hotel we will transfer to the airport for our flight to Manila. We will stop at Quezon Memorial Circle. There we will hear the story of former President Manuel Luis Quezon, who saved about a thousand Jews fleeing the horrors of the Nazis in Europe by allowing them to enter and settle in the Philippines.
We will visit the National Museum of Anthropology or the National Museum of Natural History
Dinner at the synagogue’s restaurant.
Overnight at the Peninsula Hotel in Manila
Day 10 – Wednesday, January 20, 2027
After shacharit and breakfast at the hotel, we will check out and complete our visit to Manila.
Transfer to the airport for the flight to Singapore (12:45 pm – 4:45 pm)
We will have dinner at AWAFI kosher restaurant
Check into InterContinental Hotel 5*
Our hotel is located 10 minute walk from the “Magen Avot”shul where they have daily minyanim.
SINGAPORE EXTENSION
Day 11 – Thursday, Januar 21, 2027 – Singapore
We will have the unique opportunity to daven and have breakfast and Shacharit at the Chessed El Synagogue, there will be two bus departures. We will then meet the rabbi and Jewish community of Chessed El synagogue and learn about this magnificent building which was completed in 1905 and served as a private synagogue of Sir Menashe Meyer. Thereafter, we will drive to the National Gallery
Visit the City Hall and former Supreme Court colonial buildings, now the National Gallery of Singapore where we will learn about the history and architecture of those magnificent buildings and enjoy a panoramic view from the City Hall rooftop.
Walk to the colonial area where we will see some iconic buildings such as the Queen Victoria Memorial Hall and Singapore’s first Parliament House. As we approach the Singapore River, we will see Raffles’s landing site.
Drive via the old Jewish quarter known as the “Mahala” where the many working-class Baghdadi Jews who had settled in Singapore around the turn of the twentieth century, called home. In the Jewish Quarter you will see the Isaac Ellison building built in 1928 and the David Elias building built in 1924.
We will drive to the Gardens by the Bay to enjoy the flower dome and the cloud forest.
We will have lunch at the Gardens.
Then we will continue to the iconic Marina Bay Sands hotel designed by the famous Israeli Canadian architect Moshe Safdie We will take the lift to level 56 and enjoy a panoramic view from the Sky Park.
Transfer to the Kosher chef fusion restaurant Ani-ba for dinner. Enjoy the cuisine of Israeli chef Meir Adoni, who has opened restaurants in multiple cities around the world.
After dinner we will drive back to the Gardens by the Bay for the Rapsody sound and light show at the Supper Trees.
Overnight at the InterContinental Hotel
Day 12 – Friday, January 22, 2027– Singapore
After Shacharit and breakfast at “Maghein Aboth” shul (Jacob Balas Building) we will drive to the SINGAPORE FLYER, entering through the Time Capsule, showcasing landmarks and historical events in Singapore. We will then take a ride on the Ferris Wheel, one of the largest in the world offering a magnificent view of the Marina Bay. Afterwards, we will visit Chinatown, Telok Ayer street and the first Chinese temple.
Discover the vibrant heart of Singapore’s Chinese culture, a bustling enclave within the Outram district, known for its rich history, colorful streets, diverse culinary offerings and the wall murals. Chinatown is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic cultural experience at the Singapore street art scene. We will see the Thian Hock Keng Temple, the oldest temple in Singapore built in 1938 by Hokkian Chinese migrants who arrived from China in search of work. After surviving the long journey, they gave thanks to Mazu, the goddess of the sea.
Drive to Mount Faber, to enjoy a breathtaking view of the Island of Sentosa and the Kepple Harbor before taking the cable car.
Drive to Fort Siloso located on Sentosa Island known as Pulau Blakang Mati (the island beyond death in Malay). This is the only remaining fort of the 11 forts constructed by the British as part of the coastal defense strategy against the Japanese before WWII. It offers a glimpse into its WWII history through interactive exhibits and tours.
We will continue to the recently opened Oceanarium, one of the world’s largest aquariums, home to more than 100,000 marine animals representing 1,000 species across more than 40 diverse habitats.
Back to our hotel to preparation for Shabbat
Kabbalat Shabbat at Maghain Avot Synagogue
Seudah at AWAFI restaurant
Overnight at The InterContinental Hotel
Day 13 – Shabbat, January 23, 2027 – Singapore
Tfilot at the Singapore Shul
Seudot Shabbat at AWAFI restaurant
Activities and lectures at the Jewish community center
A detailed itinerary will be announced
Motzei Shabbat we will take an amazing boat ride on a private bumboat along the Singapore River, and visit the night market
Overnight at InterContinental Hotel
Day 14 – Sunday, January 24, 2027 – flight home
After Shacharit and breakfast at the hotel you will be transferred to the airport for your flight home.
Itinerary subject to change
| Prices without international airfare:
Philippines Singapore Price for both locations-Discounted price |
$80-pp addition for non AACI member or join AACI
| FLIGHTS Departure flight: EK 2370 (Emirates-operated by Fly Dubai) Sunday, January 10, 2027: Departing Ben Gurion, Tel Aviv at 10:40. Arrival in Dubai 15:45 Connecting with: EK 336 Sunday, January 10, 2027: Departing Dubai at 17:55, arriving in Manila 06:10 (Monday, January 11) Return flight: EK 335 Tuesday, January 19, 2027: Departing Manila at 23:30. Arrival in Dubai 04:45 (Wednesday, January 20) Connecting flight: EK 2120 (Emirates-Operated by Fly Dubai) Wednesday, January 20, 2027: Departing Dubai at 06:15. Arrival in Tel Aviv at 08:05Flight information from Israel Philippines + Singapore Tour Departure flight: EK 2370 (Emirates-operated by Fly Dubai) Sunday, January 10, 2027: Departing Ben Gurion, Tel Aviv at 10:40. Arrival in Dubai 15:45 Connecting with: EK 336 Sunday, January 10, 2027: Departing Dubai at 17:55, arriving in Manila 06:10 (Monday, January 11) Return flight: EK 353 (Emirates) Monday, January 25, 2027: Departing Singapore at 00:30. Arrival in Dubai 04:10 Connecting flight: EK 2369 (Emirates Operated by Fly Dubai) Monday, January 25, 2027: Departing Dubai at 07:15. Arrival in Tel Aviv at 09:10 |
| Should the security situation result in flight cancellations that prevent travelers from joining the tour, we are committed to working with the local suppliers to provide either a refund or a travel credit. Please understand, however, that because of late-stage commitments, there are instances where a refund may unfortunately no longer be available; in such cases where a refund cannot be secured, the standard cancellation schedule will apply. |
For those meeting us from outside Israel we would be happy to assist in arranging pre arrival stay as necessary.
For those traveling outside Israel please contact us for assistance in travel arrangements.
INCLUDED IN THE TOUR
*Accommodation: 9 or 13 nights at excellent 4.5* or 5* hotels
*Entrance fees to all sites, programs, boat rides and activities as per itinerary
*3 domestic flights
*1 international flight to Singapore (Extension option only)
*Kosher full board with packed lunches (made by Chabad, the Jewish community or the hotels where available) or self-made sandwiches by the passengers
*Tips to drivers, local guides, hotel & restaurant staff
*Tips to English speaking local guides
*Tips to Israeli guide
*Unlimited bottled water every day
*Whispers (ear pieces)
NOT INCLUDED IN THE TOUR
*International flights not included
*Medical Insurance travel insurance or Insurance of any kind.
*Passport or visa fees
*Personal expenses of any kind such as laundry, room service bills, internet, cables and telephone calls
*Additional meals
*Any item not mentioned under “included in tour price”
| Booking & Deposit Policy: A refundable deposit of $500 per person is required to secure your reservation pending tour confirmation. Once the tour is confirmed, the standard payment and cancellation terms will apply, and the deposit will be credited toward your final balance.The $ 500 pp deposit will be fully refunded if the tour is not confirmed Should you choose to cancel before the tour is officially confirmed, the $500 deposit will be retained as a credit toward any future AACI Kosher overseas tour or flights with Diesenhaus, valid for two years.Payment Schedule
Cancellation Policy.
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Itinerary subject to change
For further information, please email info@aaci.org.il