Israeli Ex-Soldier Travels Across America by RV, Navigating Wildfires and Remote Roads
Tamar Cesana, a 20-year-old Israeli who recently completed her military service, is undertaking a carefully planned cross-country RV trip across the United States with her partner, Benia. Their journey began in Denver, Colorado, with the Rocky Mountain National Park as their first destination. However, their plans were abruptly altered when Tamar discovered on Instagram that 17 large wildfires were raging along the Colorado-Utah border, directly intersecting their route. They rerouted to avoid the dangerous areas, driving over four hours to escape heavy smoke and fire zones.
Tamar, who grew up in Israel and later moved to Chicago, chose this RV trip over more common backpacking routes in South America or Asia, appreciating the diverse American landscapes from mountains to deserts all in one country. The RV provides them with privacy, freedom, and the ability to cook kosher meals, which is important to them as they observe the Sabbath. They spent the Sabbath in Salt Lake City near a Chabad house, preparing food in advance and connecting to electricity to maintain a home-like environment.
Throughout their trip, Tamar was surprised to find kosher products even in small towns, easing concerns about food availability. The couple also experienced the vastness of the American West firsthand when they accidentally drove onto Nevada's "Loneliest Road," a remote highway with no gas stations or cell service for miles. After realizing the risks, they turned back and refueled at the nearest station.
Their journey included stops in Elko, Nevada, a town steeped in cowboy culture, and the Ruby Mountains, known as the "Switzerland of America" for its alpine scenery. Tamar acknowledges the challenges of RV life, from learning to operate the vehicle's systems to managing daily maintenance, but values the unique experience of waking up to a new landscape every day. She emphasizes the importance of patience and adaptability on such a trip, describing the RV as more than just a vehicle but their moving home.
Tamar also reflects on her Israeli identity, feeling a strong connection to her roots despite living in the U.S., and cherishes the warmth of meeting fellow Israelis and the local Jewish community during their travels.
