Through the recommendation of a friend, we connected with Susan Weissberg. We began our correspondence via email and eventually scheduled a phone call which lasted 45-60 minutes (We live outside of Philadelphia, Susan is in Florida) in order for Susan to get a better sense of who we were, what we were looking for, what we were NOT interested in. She immediately took charge and within two days we were booked! We discussed the pros/cons of going on a group bus tour versus a private guide. We ultimately decided on a hybrid; with a tour guide most days but some on our own. It is important for me to mention here, that Susan was respectful of our budget. There was never a need for a reminder to keep within our limits.
We received a professional, detailed itinerary (including pictures) via email within days. Susan was happy to field any questions and make adjustments. A few weeks prior to our departure, we both received a Fed-Ex package. Inside a box (with a tasteful bow) was a beautiful leather binder with our vouchers, and daily step-by-step guidance. We were SET. I am not exaggerating when I say that Susan has a dream team in Israel that knows how to execute her plan; starting with an escort waiting immediately off of the plane and ending with an escort back to the plane 10 days later. More than once Mindy and I looked at each other and said “Susan knows her stuff.
Thank God for Susan.” The days on our own were still scheduled with activities (and clear instructions on where and how to get there). We took bike tours, Segway tours, went to an organic kibbutz, visited Yad Vashem, and of course…shopped! Every site and activity she uses or recommends has been thoroughly vetted by Susan herself, including the Shabbat dinner in the home of the lovely Iris…priceless.
Susan connected us with a tour guide…who created an unparalleled experience for us. It is hard to find the words to describe how knowledgeable, personable, and warm this ex-IDF colonel can be. In addition to the sites in our itinerary, and sharing everything he knows about the politics and history of the country, he helped us experience Israel in a way that felt authentic by exposing us to places he takes his own family. My only regret will be if I do not get my entire family back before he decides to retire! With his guidance our trip was seamless. It was perfect. Mindy and I agree we would not have wanted it any other way.
I have already told anyone who will listen: if you are going to Israel, you MUST use Susan to plan your trip.