7 Hacks for Traveling Kosher
1. Find the local Synagogue, Jewish Community Center, or Interfaith Chapel
Most of the biggest ski resorts in North America have interfaith chapels and Chabad JCC’s that are open and welcoming to tourists. They usually have a local rabbi or song leader who lead services for Kabbalat Shabbat and Shabbat morning services for Shacharit and Musaf.
2. Shabbat friendly room keys or assistance are regularly available
Talk to your hotel’s front desk about your restrictions, they often have special keys or will be more than willing to assist you.
3. Hotels are often able to provide microwaves for your stay free of charge
With just a 2 minute microwaving of water and a wipe, the microwave is certainly the easiest appliance to kosher. We all agree, few things beat a cup of hot chocolate after a day on the slopes!
4. They know the Kosher options available
It’s not a secret, Kosher food is not a primary focus for the exclusive restaurateurs found in exclusive ski resorts, but some hotels have options! The Four Seasons in Vail for example offers Kosher options at some of their dining venues. Some of the Chabads offer Kosher delivery and catering as well. There are options, and your concierge, local Rabbi, or travel agent know them.
5. Grab and Go from the Kosher sections at local Grocery stores
Local grocers often have a fully stocked kosher section with snacks that are perfect for your time on the slopes. Power bars are great, but Kosher Beef Jerky is even better, and that is available at City Markets across Colorado as well as more grocery stores at other mountain destinations.
6. Check with the Rabbi about daily Minyans
There are many things in life that we can’t control, and sometimes there are reasons we end up on trips while mourning or observing a yahrzeit, and the good news is that many Rabbis at ski towns have connections and the ability to pull together minyans with a little bit of advanced notice. Another great way to ensure that there is going to be a minyan while you are on your trip is to call ahead and ask the Rabbi which weeks there will be minyans. This is predictable and the Rabbis know which weeks of the year will feature heavy traffic among Jews looking for minyanim before or after skiing.
7. Put a travel Agent to work for you
There are a lot of travel agents out there, and they offer great service. We all love personal service, but there is so much added value when that travel agent understands our personal needs. I have experienced incredible understanding through my stay with Snow Sport Vacations. They do a great job of finding the best lodging and coordinating all shabbat logistics with the hotel and ski rental companies.
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