Argentina & Brazil Jewish Interest Tour

Day 1 Fri: Arrive Buenos Aires (City Tour)

Welcome to Argentina’s capital, often referred to as the Paris of South America, a mosaic as varied and diverse as its culture. Built in the 19th Century, an era of plenty for the wealthy gaucho land barons of Argentina, this city of 10 million is a kaleidoscope of intimate places, events and interactions, each with a slightly different shade, shape, and character. Glass-sheathed skyscrapers cast their slender shadows over 19th century Victorian houses; tango bars hazed with the piquant tang of cigar smoke face dusty, treasure-filled antique shops across s the way; small, highly individualized neighborhoods, each proudly display its own characteristic colors and forms.

Meeting services at airport and transfer to the Abasto Buenos Aires Hotel Plaza located downtown in front al Abasto Shopping Center, the only five stars hotel located near the Jewish Quarter where we find kosher restaurants and synagogues within waking distance and with close proximity to the Obelisco and Plaza de Mayo. Due to its location, the hotel is also closely affiliated with the Tango and those interested are able to enjoy an exclusive Private Class of Tango in the room.

This afternoon introductory city tour takes us along the 9th of July Avenue (Avenida 9 de Julio), considered the widest in the world, boasting eight lanes. We pass Plaza de la Republica with Buenos Aires’ signature Obelisk projecting upwards as a symbol of the city. Continue our drive passing the Plaza de Mayo square where we also view the Government Building referred to as "Casa Rosada" (Pink House). Next we visit the picturesque and colorful port section of La Boca, a picturesque neighborhood at the mouth of the Riachuelo River where the city’s first settlers landed. The tour continues towards San Telmo, one of the oldest neighborhoods in Buenos Aires, the bohemian side of the city with its colonial houses, cobbled stone streets. In contrast, next we visit the modern district of Puerto Madero; Palermo with its elegant residences ending at Recoleta, the most chic neighborhood in Buenos Aires with its sidewalk cafes and boutique shops. Next we tour the famous cemetery, a necropolis of elaborate mausoleums, including that of Eva Peron. Return to the hotel to prepare for Shabbat (we can try to arrange for Shabbat dinner – not yet included)

Evening free to attend Synagogue Services (Sinagoga Lavalle - Sinagoga Paso - Sucat David - Sinagoga Yeshurun al withion walking distance)

Overnight at the Abasto Buenos Aires Hotel.

Note: Upgrades to many luxury hotels available

Day 2 Sat: Buenos Aires (Evening Tango Show)

Today is Shabbat… we keep this day free for Synagogue etc.

This evening we offer a special treat as we step into the Buenos Aires night making our way to El Querandi Tango. Dating back to 1867 and located in the heart of the traditional neighborhood of San Telmo, El Querandí offers the most authentic presentation of this Argentine artistic expression. The stage is strategically located in the middle of the sitting tables with a small well coordinated orchestra just in front of you evoking seductive melody to compliment an amazing show that takes you back in time recreating the sophistication of old Buenos Aires. Enjoy the show as it evolves from number to number each more mesmerizing than the next as you get to know the Argentine national dance…The Tango.

Overnight at the Abasto Buenos Aires Hotel. (B)

Day 3 Sun: Buenos Aires (San Telmo Sunday Market & Jewish Buenos Aires)

More European than South American in flavor, Buenos Aires boasts bustling streets, grand avenues, old-time cafes and stylish restaurants. It's a city of tragedy and elation; a vibrant, cosmopolitan capital where locals are renowned for their flair and cockiness, even in times of adversity. The city's neighborhoods are small and highly individualized each with its own characteristic colors and forms.

Today is Sunday, a grand opportunity to experience the bohemian side of the city. First stop is the famous Café Tortoni, the oldest Café house in Argentina and home to the artistic and intellectual capital of Buenos Aires since 1858. Then we continue to visit San Telmo to experience the famous San Telmo Antique Market, a favorite pastime of the Portenos (residents of the city) and tourists alike. The Antique Market event takes place only on Sundays thus providing us this unique opportunity. Widely hailed as the most picturesque part of Buenos Aires, here we walk along cobblestone streets and colonial buildings amid an array of shops and boutiques, tango parlors and cafes. In a departure from the sophistication that is Buenos Aires, here you’ll experience the bohemian side of the city with its mimes, impersonators, musicians and the ubiquitous tango dancers offering free lessons to the least inhibited passersby.

Argentina is home to one of the largest Jewish community in Latin America but recent events have diminished the Jewish population. The Jewish heritage of Argentina dates back to the 19th century when Jews came from Europe and later from North Africa and the Eastern Mediterranean. The Jewish community today is less than half of what it was a recent as the 70’s and 80’s and began to shrink in the 90’s due to anti-Semitism and terrorist attacks on the Israeli Consulate in 1992 and the infamous attack on the AMIA, the Jewish Community Center in 1994. Another major contributor was the economic crisis of 1999-2002. But the Jewish community remains active in all realms of society including politics, religion, education, arts, media, film and music, with many prominent figures in these fields. There are dozens of educational institutions, social groups and sports clubs within the community. Most synagogues here are traditional, with orthodox synagogues outnumbering conservative and reform houses of worship.

We begin our Jewish Points of Interest tour at the center of Jewish life in the city along the Once Quarter (pronounced on-say). Once can be compared with the Lower East Side of Manhattan where Jewish immigrants settled, and while most non-Orthodox Jews have since moved up and out, this neighborhood is home to the AMIA, The foundation of the AMIA (Asociacion Mutual Israelita Argentina), dating back to 1894. Here we find several synagogues and the majority of kosher dining options. While not a particularly picturesque neighborhood, it is certainly a historic one for the local Jewish community. Still today, many mezuzot (ritual door adornment) can be found on shop-doors in this area, and the feeling of the area is reminiscent of a bustling immigrant community of yesteryear.

We visit Ashkenazi and Sefardic Synagogues. While in Once we visit its most prominent synagogue Yesod Hadat, founded in 1932 by Jews from Allepo Syria. Once is also home to Argentina's oldest synagogue, Congregacion Israelita de la Republica Argentina referred to as “Libertad” because it is located at Libertad 733 in Buenos Aires. The Libertad was dedicated in 1932 and houses a small Jewish museum, which a good collection of photographs and Jewish ritual objects. Another source of pride for the community is its Jewish cultural center, which features concerts, lectures and a high school.

Time permitting we will also visit the Raoul Wallemberg monument, located at one of the most beautiful parks in town. Visit the Latin American Rabbinic Seminary, the only one in Latin America that offers professional teaching for Conservative Rabbis, Cantors, and Mohels (ritual surgeons). The building itself is beautiful and the synagogues and Jewish schools in the area are quite interesting.

Conclude the tour with to the barrio, Villa Crespo, an authentic Jewish area that also has a history of Argentine Tango. The town's splendid synagogues and very active Jewish schools give us a view of the Jewish Buenos Aires.

Overnight at the Abasto Buenos Aires Hotel. (B)

Day 4 Mon: Buenos Aires / Iguassu (Brazil Falls Walking Tour)

Today we transfer to the airport for the flight to Iguassu Falls where Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay share borders. Here you will be treated to a sensational sound and light show brought to you courtesy of Mother Nature. A show with no intermissions - 275 separate waterfalls cascading from the top of a horseshoe-shaped canyon spanning 2-miles, wider than Victoria, higher than Niagara and more magnificent than both.

Meeting services upon arrival and transfer to the Das Cataratas Hotel by Orient-Express blessed with a privileged location as the only hotel situated within the Iguassu National Park and facing the Brazil side of the falls – the postcard of Iguassu Falls, providing its guests to enjoy exclusive access to the falls each morning before the park opens.

Iguassu Falls are the result of a volcanic eruption that created a large crack in the earth. This afternoon we take a guided walking tour to visit the Brazilian side of the falls offering the best vantage points to appreciate the wondrous spectacle. We walk along the catwalk offering several amazing panoramic views of the Falls and at the end of the catwalk a fantastic close-up encounter with the Devils’ Throat and main cataracts. . Here fourteen falls drop 350 feet with such force that a 100 foot tall cloud of mist stays permanently suspended overhead. Watch for the rainbow! At the end of the catwalk we take a panoramic elevator up to ground level to return back to the hotel.

Overnight at the Das Cataratas Hotel. (B)

DAY 5 Tue: (Argentine Side of falls & Great Adventure Safari)

More than just a thundering water falls, Iguassu is also a national park of tropical forests sheltering more than 1,100 species of birds and mammals. This morning we cross the Tancredo Neves Bridge over the Iguassu River which also forms the border between Argentina and Brazil to visit the Argentine side of the falls including the national park. Upon arrival to the park we walk the paths along lush tropical basin, over and under the splashing torrents of falling water. Beautiful flowers, ferns, tropical plants, butterflies and exotic birds add to the exciting experience of close contact with nature. A short train trip will take us to the pathways leading to the Devil’s Throat, the single most impressive attraction along the Argentinean side of the falls where 14 separate falls cascade down 350 foot cliff creating a thunderous roar that can be heard miles away.

Next we join the thrilling “Great Adventure” tour, a fabulous combination of nature and adventure. We first walk along boardwalks into the surrounding forest; then gain amazing, close-up views of the falls until we reach the river shore. Once there, we board zodiacs to start an exhilarating ride around the thundering falls, enjoying the myriad rainbows beside roaring San Martin Falls. Later we disembark on the Iguassu River shore where Rangers will escort us on a fascinating park ride, explaining the local habitat and pointing out exotic plant and animal species that still survive in the Atlantic Rainforest. After the tour return to the hotel on the Brazil side.

Overnight at the Das Cataratas Hotel. (B)

Day 6 Wed: Iguassu / Rio de Janeiro (Sugarloaf Mountain)

Today we transfer to the airport for the flight to Rio de Janeiro. Welcome to one of the most spectacular cities on our planet. Rio…the very sound of it evokes images of sun, fun and rhythm of the Samba. Flanked by gorgeous mountains, white-sand beaches and verdant rainforests fronting deep blue sea, Rio occupies one of the most spectacular settings of any metropolis in the world. With the seductive sounds of sambato the world-famous beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema; the restaurants and open-air cafes, the cariocas (residents of Rio) live for the moment without a care in the world. This idea of paradise has enchanted visitors for centuries.

Meeting services upon arrival and transfer to the Copacabana Palace Hotel, member of the Orient Express Hotel chain. A glance through the pages of the Copacabana Palace's Golden Book will attest to the hotel status among the world's great hotels with its guest list of royalty, stars as well as the politicians and business leaders who have helped shape the world over the last seven decades.

This afternoon we drive along Copacabana and Ipanema, two of the world's most famous beaches continuing to Flamengo Park en route to Rio's Urca neighborhood. From here we ascend aboard glass cable cars to the top of Sugar Loaf Mountain - 1,200 feet of sheer rock overlooking Guanabara Bay and its islands for a breathtaking view of the surrounding areas, including the Rio-Niteroi Bridge and Corcovado Mountain crowned by the famous Art Deco statue of Christ the Redeemer.
Overnight at the selected hotel. (B)

Overnight at the Copacabana Palace Hotel. (B)

Day 7 Thu: Rio de Janeiro (Jewish Heritage Tour & Corcovado Mountain)

South America’s Jewish Heritage was a well-kept secret, in particular that of Brazil! Jewish presence in the Western Hemisphere dates back to the discovery by Columbus. It is believed that aboard the first three ships and 88 sailors, Columbus' crew had six Jews who had converted to Christianity, referred to as “Conversos” in Spanish, and “cristão novos” in Portuguese. In addition, there were six practicing Jews among the crew. Indeed, historians believe that the first man to set foot on the new continent was Luis de Torres, a Converso. Some Jews fleeing the Inquisitions of Portugal and Spain found their way to Brazil. In 1630, the Portuguese colony in Recife, Pernambuco, on the Atlantic coast, was among the parts of northeastern Brazil conquered by Dutch forces. It was during the brief period of Dutch rule, Converso Jews were permitted to openly practice their faith. So you may be surprised to know that the first Synagogue built in the Americas was Sinagoga Kahal Zur Israel located in Recife, Brazil which represented the first Jewish congregation in the New World (Americas) established by immigrants from the Netherlands. The original synagogue building survived until the early 20th century, when it was torn down. The site has been confirmed by an archaeological excavation. In 2001 the decision was made to create a Jewish museum in same two story house on the site of the old synagogue. Around 1850 there was another waive of Jewish Immigration from Europe, most settled in Argentina and another followed in the 1920 and also post the holocaust era.

This morning we explore Jewish life in Rio de Janeiro and it does not take long to find the Jewish presence in Rio - a public school named after Anne Frank, a square named after Ben-Gurion, a street named Theodore Herzl. We will visit the Grand Synagogue restored by famed publisher Adolpho Bloch. Next we visit the hub of the Jewish Community, the Jewish Federation, which coordinates all aspects of Jewish life, including synagogues, schools and clubs. Time permitting; we will stop for a visit to the Bar Ilan School, an orthodox school, and its synagogue. From there we go to the Lubavitch Synagogue, which is also a center for Jewish Studies. Our tour concludes at the headquarters of H. Stern (Hans Stern); probably the most recognized successful Brazilian Jewish Entrepreneur who escaped from a Germany in 1939 – a person with a unique insight to recognize value in what once were called semi-precious stones -- aquamarines, topazes, tourmalines and amethysts. He built an empire out of that wisdom. Mr. Stern passed in 2007 but his legacy lives through his sons who run more than 160 gem stores worldwide. Here we will receive information about Mr. Stern and a visual explanation of how gemstones are discovered, mined and made into beautiful jewelry.

This afternoon we drive through the fashionable Lagoa District to the base of Corcovado Mountain for a short train ride to the summit. Here, at 2,400 feet above the city stands one of South America's most famous landmarks, the 125-foot statue of "Christ the Redeemer", one of the new Seven Wonders of the World. The panorama of the city below is testament to why most visitors consider Rio to be one of the most spectacular and beautiful cities in the world. On a clear day a 360 degree panorama view covering the entire city, the beaches, the forest, mountains, Maracana (soccer) Stadium, Rio Niteroi Bridge, Botanic Garden and more.

Overnight at the Copacabana Palace Hotel. (B)

Day 8 Fri: Rio de Janeiro

Today is free to enjoy the fun, sun and vibrancy of this city or to continue exploring the “Cidade Maravilhosa” (Marvelous City), at your own pace. Rio offers world-class restaurants, shopping, and varied active sports. Beaches are an integral part of the Rio’s envied lifestyle, highlighted by two of the world’s most famous -- Copacabana and Ipanema. For those wanting more touring.

Optional (Half-day) Botanical Gardens Tour:

Rio de Janeiro’s Botanical Garden is a true ecological sanctuary, one of the ten most important in the entire world. Declared a biosphere reserve by UNESCO, the park boasts some of the rarest species of plants from Brazil and other countries. The most popular exhibit in the park is the huge royal palms dating back to the period of King John VI. The greenhouse with bromeliads, orchids and other blossoms are also something you will not want to miss. Stroll around the Amazon section of the park and you will see rare species of flora from the Brazilian Amazon. The Garden is also well-known for its six beautiful ponds. The park is an excellent leisure option for children and adults as well as nature lovers. Visitors can stroll along the pathways of the park to the sounds of native birds like the “curios” and the “sabiás.” The exuberance of nature in all its color and glory provide images that will be etched in the memory forever.

Overnight at the Copacabana Palace Hotel. (B)

Day 9 Sat: Rio de Janeiro (Brazilian Extravaganza Show)

Today is open for visiting the synagogue.

This evening a special treat as we set out for the Rio by night Tour to view a Brazilian Extravaganza show at Plataforma where you will be treated to the contagious rhythms of the Brazilian samba with the percussion instruments unique to Brazil. The show consists of lavishly and colorfully costumed dancers and musicians presenting the richness of the nation's musical and cultural heritage. The grand finale displays some of the dazzling costumes used in the Carnival parade.

Overnight at the Copacabana Palace Hotel. (B)

Day 10 Sun: Rio de Janeiro

Another day in Rio de Janeiro… either take in the beach or enjoy the sun and fun of this marvelous city or take an option tour:

Optional Petropolis Tour:

Today we visit Petropolis, the beautiful mountain retreat of Brazil's only two emperors. A mere 40 mile drive from Rio de Janeiro we find the monument to Pedro II, emperor of Brazil from 1831 until his exile in 1889. This city is an engineering marvel with its concrete bridges that soar over green valleys as the road curves around mountains and the flatlands below. We visit the Imperial Museum which has been the summer residence of the emperor D. Pedro II and that keeps furniture and objects such as the crown of gold, pearls and diamonds used by D. Pedro I and D. Pedro II. The tour will continue on the Gothic Cathedral where Princess Isabel was buried along with the tombstones of D. Pedro II and his wife and then the Crystal Palace, built in France and mounted in Brazil, destined to shelter exhibitions and great parties promoted by Princess Isabel. Return to Rio de Janeiro and your hotel.

Optional Tropical Island Excursion:

Full day Tropical Island Tour. We travel south along the road Rio-Santos to the fishermen village of Itacuruça. There we will board a schooner (locally known as "saveiros"). A tray of tropical fruits will be served on board with a bar also available on board (beverages are not included in tour price). We cruise along the Sepetiba Bay, an area rich of natural beauties, where it is common for passengers to spot the dolphins, giant king-fishers, parrots, turtles and sting-rays. After stopping for a swim, continue to the island where a delicious lunch buffet will be served. After lunch, there will still be time to explore the island before returning to Itacuruça. The coach returns via Barra, a charming residential area of Rio, America's Avenue and its modern shopping centers and buildings, Ayrton Senna Avenue and Sernambetiba Avenue, ending back at your hotel for overnight.

Overnight at the Copacabana Palace Hotel. (B)

Day 11 Mon: Depart Rio de Janeiro

Last day to do your last minute shopping or stroll the beaches of Ipanema or Copacabana before heading home.

Late evening transfer to the airport for the overnight flight home. (B)