Looking for a Unique Mother-Child Getaway? Think Israel!

Lottery tickets. Brunch. Dust-collecting figurines. What do they have in common? They’re all unremarkable Mother’s Day gifts. Ask a mom what she’d really like and the answer will almost always be a chance to spend time with her kids. And, if that opportunity includes a visit to a bucket list destination like Israel, even better!

Mother and son on a beach in Israel — Enjoying the many beaches in Israel is a popular activity for tourists. Photo: State of Israel

I’ve got too many things so I gently encourage my friends and family to give me experiences instead of stuff. It works, mostly. And, when I’m the giver, I do the same, and try to create a memorable moment that the recipient will treasure long after their material presents have turned to trash.

The Best Gift Ever? Plan a Bucket List Trip!

A trip, in my opinion, is the best type of gift. It can be small, like catching a rom-com matinee with your bestie on her birthday. Or, perhaps, it’s an occasion that merits a full-blown vacation to an exotic locale.

For a recent milestone anniversary, I convinced my hubby that we NEEDED to go to South Africa on safari. It took a lot of convincing.

At times, I felt like Lucy begging Ricky to let her dance in the big show at the Tropicana.

He eventually gave in and we had a great time. But it will be a long while before he commits to another bucket list trip and there are some destinations that he doesn’t have on his list. Israel, for example.

But it’s on mine.

So I’ve started turning asking my kids to accompany me on bucket list trips. Because they’re older, with jobs and lives of their own, it’s impossible to get all of them to go somewhere. But I can usually lock down one of them. Especially when I’m footing the bill.

Why Israel for a Mother-Child Getaway?

I’m a huge fan of solo travel. I like to go where I want to go when I want to and enjoy not having to compromise on attractions, meals and more. But there are some places in this world that I think you really need to experience with someone else.

Israel’s that type of destination.

western wall in Israel with dome of the rock in the background — Visiting the Holy Land is a bucket list trip for people of all faiths. Photo: Shutterstock

I can’t imagine exploring the world’s Holy Land without someone to share it with. And I don’t mean a tour bus full of strangers. I want to hold someone’s hand as we visit the Western Wall, the Mount of Olives and the Dome of the Rock. Whether you’re religious or not, walking through centuries of history must be pretty powerful stuff. Sharing an experience like this with your child? Priceless.

Israel: Off the Beaten Path

The other benefit of going on a mother-child getaway to Israel is that my kids know how to have a good time when the touring’s over. And Israel has buckets of fun things to do beyond the major historical sites.

Shopping in Neve Tzedek

Rehabilitation projects have revitalized Neve Tzedek, one of Tel Aviv’s oldest districts. Escape the crowds and wind your way through narrow streets, in and out of art galleries and cafes while pausing to appreciate the neighborhood’s restored architecture.

three women enjoying a drink at a cafe in Israel — After shopping, enjoy the pause that refreshes at a lovely cafe. Photo: Dana Friedlander

Spend a Day at Gordon Beach

Gordon Beach is one of Tel Aviv’s most popular, known for a spectacular stretch of white sand. Make your day at the beach whatever you want it to be…if windsurfing’s your thing, go for it. Or grab some food and bevvies from one of the many beachside restaurants and simply relax and unwind. The choice is yours.

Explore Israel’s Hidden Tunnels

Growing up, we loved watching adventure shows with the kids. “The Amazing Race” is still one of our favorites. But our all-time classic mixed adventure with mystery; when my kids have kids I’m sure they’ll watch “Lost” together just like we did. Getting the chance to explore Israel’s hidden tunnels -Western Wall Tunnels, Hezekiah’s Tunnels (also known as Siloam Tunnels), Herodium National Park and Rosh HaNikra Grottoes – would give me and the kid an opportunity to indulge in some good, old-fashioned make-believe.

Israel Hotels: The Perfect Match for your Mother-Child Getaway

As one of the world’s most popular destinations, Israel has a huge number of hotels so you can choose the one that’s right for your personality and style.

Budget travelers should check out the Dan Panorama in Tel Aviv. The city’s attractions are easy to access from this seaside hotel. The Dan Panorama has a huge pool and sundeck to complement a sandy beach.

Prefer a spa? Check out the Carmel Forest Spa. Located in Haifa, the Carmel Forest Spa Resort has been named the Best Spa in the Middle East for several years by SpaFinder. Offering more than 70 body and beauty treatments, the Carmel Forest Spa is designed for moms who need to unwind. If you’re bringing your child, they must be 16 years or older.

Panoramic view of Tel Aviv in Israel — Head to rooftop restaurants in Israel for the best city views! Photo: Dana Friedlander

For those who love the luxe life, there’s the Mamilla Hotel in Jerusalem. The hotel’s rooftop has a panoramic view of the Old City and its Mediterranean-inspired seafood restaurant is the perfect place for a bucket list Mother’s Day meal.

Now that you’re thinking bucket list instead of brunch, what’s your idea of the perfect Mother’s Day gift?