Israelis Extend Summer Vacation by Traveling Abroad in September

Many Israeli families are opting to extend their summer vacation by traveling abroad in early September, bypassing the start of the school year. This trend, dubbed the "Golden Week," capitalizes on a significant drop in flight and accommodation prices after the August peak season and before the Jewish High Holidays.

With fewer tourists and hotel vacancies, prices for popular destinations like Crete and Rhodes can decrease by hundreds of dollars per person compared to August. For instance, a vacation in Crete that cost $1,025 in August dropped to $830 in September, while a Rhodes trip saw savings of about $190 per person. This makes September an attractive time for families seeking a more affordable and less crowded travel experience.

Some parents view missing a few days of school as a minor price to pay for significant savings and reduced stress. One example is the Rashaf family, who chose to spend a month in Japan. They cited the excellent food, shopping, nature, and affordability for longer stays as reasons for their choice. The family's educator expressed confidence that their daughter, a top student, would catch up on missed schoolwork.

This period offers a chance for families to gain valuable experiences and create lasting memories outside the classroom. As many international destinations experience more pleasant weather in September, and airport crowds thin out, the feeling of an extended summer vacation becomes a significant bonus for these travelers. The article suggests that for those willing to postpone the start of the school year, September unlocks a world of exotic destinations at more reasonable prices, marking the true beginning of summer for them.