Every summer, the same questions land in our inbox. Where exactly are we staying, what is there to do, is it right for the kids, and what happens if plans change? So we sat down with Israel Shainfeld and put the most common ones to him directly. Here are the eight questions travelers ask most before a kosher summer vacation abroad — plus one more you probably never thought to ask.
Why the city center, and not up in the mountains?
Some people picture an organized vacation as an isolated hotel out in the countryside. But there’s a world of difference between being cut off and being surrounded by life. The Hilton Mainz sits right on the banks of the Rhine, in the heart of the city. Picture this: after dinner, you step out on foot to the riverside promenade, to the pedestrian mall, to squares full of tourists from all over the world, and you feel a real European vacation. The hotel’s Irish bar looks directly out over the river, cruise ships pass right beneath the window, and from the hotel entrance a stunning riverside promenade begins — perfect for evening strolls and family time.
What’s so special about Mainz?
A completely fair question. Mainz is not just another German city. It is the historic Magenza, one of the most important Jewish communities the world has ever known, part of the celebrated ShUM communities recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. This is where Rashi studied, where Rabbeinu Gershom Me’or HaGolah taught, and where one of the most glorious eras of Ashkenazi Jewry began. Over the course of the summer, Shainfeld weaves in special tours tracing the heritage of Ashkenazi Jewry, visiting the most moving sites of these ancient Jewish communities.
On top of that, Mainz is a perfect launch point for easy day trips across Germany, France and Luxembourg. If you’re looking for nature, cities and scenery all in one vacation, Mainz is the right choice.
What’s the weather like in summer?
The region enjoys a comfortable, pleasant European summer, with long, bright days. In the evenings you can walk around in a light jacket and feel absolutely wonderful. Anyone who was with Shainfeld in Leipzig last year remembers the pleasant days and the magical evenings along the river. A gentle breeze rolls in off the water at night, so it’s worth bringing an extra warm layer, just in case you feel a slight chill. Compared with oppressive summer humidity, the difference is significant, and it adds a great deal to the quality of the vacation and the overall experience.
What is there to do during the day?
There are so many options, because Mainz is the gateway to one of the most fascinating regions in Europe. Nature hikes, picturesque towns, a Rhine cruise past ancient castles and green vineyards, a visit to Strasbourg and a trip to enchanting Luxembourg. Beyond Germany, you’ll also head out on tours in France and Luxembourg — three countries in one vacation. Every day brings an entirely different experience. And for those who love to shop, Germany is considered one of the best-value shopping destinations in Europe, with international brands, outlets and prices you won’t find back home.
Is this vacation right for families with children?
The short answer is yes — and how! The Mainz area is home to three of the most sought-after parks in Europe. Europa-Park, the largest in Germany, with 18 spectacular themed worlds and wild roller coasters. Phantasialand, with six lavishly designed themed worlds, from Berlin and Mexico to China. Plus water parks and other family attractions suited to every age. The parents enjoy a luxurious, indulgent vacation, and the kids get days full of adrenaline they’ll never forget. That kind of combination is rare, and usually very hard to find all in one place.
What about the price — is it worth it?
Here it’s important to compare correctly. What Shainfeld Tours offers is not just another simple vacation of lodging and meals. First and foremost, it’s a summer getaway of the highest caliber, paired with tours to the most beautiful places in Europe. The package includes a luxurious Hilton hotel on the Rhine, exceptionally high-end mehadrin kosher meals, themed evenings, an Irish bar open throughout the day with coffee, cakes and a generous spread, and a magnificent Shabbat with five full meals — all prepared by Shainfeld’s award-winning chefs. There are, of course, also programs, lectures and activities, varied high-quality tours, and personal service from the Shainfeld team throughout the entire vacation. When you add up all the details and extras together, you discover that the value you receive is very high relative to the price you pay.
What if a security situation suddenly comes up?
This is the question that comes up in every conversation lately, and rightly so. Shainfeld has proven itself on exactly this point, more than once. During the COVID period and through difficult wartime stretches, when the skies closed and people found themselves unable to travel, Shainfeld stood behind its clients and returned their money in keeping with its commitments. No dodging, no excuses, no fine print. Shainfeld means insurance and peace of mind. If, G-d forbid, a situation arises where the trip can’t go ahead because of closed skies, they’ll act exactly as they have in the past.
And one more question you didn’t think to ask: is this Shainfeld’s first time in Germany?
Not at all. After the great success at the Hilton Dresden, the Hilton Düsseldorf and the Westin Leipzig, Shainfeld now arrives at its newest and most impressive destination yet — the Hilton Mainz. Every year we’ve built completely different tour routes, and each region delivered its own experiences. This year, too, a new, varied and fascinating destination awaits participants, backed by all the experience and professionalism built up over the years.
Eight questions, plus one you didn’t think to ask. And in the end, anyone who knows Shainfeld knows the real answer to all of them is the same: when you choose Shainfeld, you’re choosing peace of mind, uncompromising quality and a vacation that stays with you long after you return home. Just remember that summer spots are limited, so don’t wait.
For more information about a summer vacation at the Hilton Mainz, click here
