The Alentejo, a magnificent region in Portugal, is situated between the Algarve and central Lisbon. This expansive, sparsely populated area encompasses over 30 percent of Portugal’s land and is known for its charming rolling hills and historic fortified towns. In Portuguese, “Alentejo” means “beyond the Tagus River,” and it proudly holds the distinction of being […]
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Nestled on the eastern tip of the Île de la Cité, a poignant monument often goes unnoticed by many visitors despite its central location. This irony is striking, given its mission of remembrance. General Charles de Gaulle inaugurated the Mémorial des Martyrs de la Déportation in 1962 to honor the 200,000 French citizens deported to […]
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The Jewish history of Versailles, a city renowned for its opulent palace and significant role in French history, reflects a rich and evolving narrative. The community has roots extending back several centuries, with fluctuating periods of growth and decline influenced by broader socio-political events in France. The Jewish community in Versailles is vibrant and active, […]
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The Bahamas, with its pristine turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and vibrant cultural scene, has rapidly become a premier destination for Jewish travelers seeking a combination of relaxation, luxury, and spiritual engagement. This idyllic Caribbean paradise offers a unique fusion of upscale accommodations, religious amenities, and a rich historical backdrop, appealing to Jewish communities worldwide. Whether […]
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The French Jewish heritage is a rich mosaic reflecting a history of perseverance, intellectual vigor, and cultural diversity. Dating back to Roman times, Jewish communities settled in what is now France, evolving over centuries amidst shifting political and social landscapes. One pivotal era was the medieval period, when Sephardic Jews expelled from Spain in 1492 […]
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The Jewish presence on the Iberian Peninsula predates the establishment of Portugal as a nation. Portuguese Jews have made enduring contributions to the nation’s cultural heritage through their significant involvement in the arts, philosophy, commerce, and sciences. Today, there is a growing fascination with uncovering Portugal’s Jewish legacy, particularly in cities like Lisbon, Porto, and […]
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The New York Jewish Travel Guide sat down with Aaron Laine, Chief Rabbi of the Ashkenazi Jewish community of Panama at Beth El Synagogue, to ask a few questions about Jewish life and the community in Panama. The following interview was edited for clarity: NYJTG: Thank you very much for your time, Rabbi. Could […]
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During a recent press trip to London, I stumbled upon a hidden treasure—a Jewish cemetery nestled discreetly on Fulham Road. While exploring the renowned antiquarian and rare bookseller Sokol Books in central London, I glimpsed a Jewish cemetery through one of their rear windows. It serenely contrasts with the surrounding urban hustle and bustle, shielded […]
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Tucked away near the Pont de Bir-Hakeim on the Seine’s 15th arrondissement bank in Paris, there lies a memorial that honors the Jewish victims of the Vel d’Hiv Roundup. Although it holds profound historical importance, the memorial is subtly nestled within a tranquil garden adorned with trees, and it might escape the notice of those […]
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In the late 19th century, as waves of Eastern European emigrants sought passage to North America, Scotland became a significant waypoint, welcoming thousands of Jewish travelers. Glasgow, a bustling port city, witnessed this influx, giving rise to thriving communities and new settlements. The Jewish population in Scotland grew considerably during this time, with Glasgow and […]
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