Jewish culture around the world

Synagogue in Bridgetown, Barbados

As the summer draws to a close and thoughts start to return to school, work and winter, I thought it might be interesting to compare some summer travel experiences in relation to Jewish culture.

One evening whilst on holiday in Italy, my family and I found ourselves sharing a table with a family of three women, the grandmother, mother and daughter, who said they were from Los Angeles, a fact that their accents clearly betrayed as not entirely true. As we chatted, it became clear that they were Jewish immigrants from Uzbekistan and they had moved to the United States after the collapse of the Soviet Union.  What was originally intended as a quick supper before heading off for the evening, turned in to an evening of fascinating conversation, hearing first hand what life had been like for the Jews under the Soviet regime, and how their father in particular, a University professor practised Judaism secretly at the same time as being a member of the Communist party, in order to gain a job. They told us how they had to leave the house in the middle of the night to go to the synagogue to get some Matzo for Pesach.

Although we only spent three hours with this family, we came away with a feeling of awe and admiration for them and what they went through to maintain their faith and heritage. Whenever we meet other Jewish people from around the world, there is always an affinity, and a sense of celebration of our shared heritage. Several years ago we arrived at the synagogue in Barbados for a Friday night service.  There are only about 80 Jewish families on Barbados and we were welcomed like one of the family and invited out for a trip to “the best ice cream parlour on the island” after the service.

When we travel, as Jews, we often seek out sites of Jewish heritage, of which there are many fascinating ones around the world, even if our destination is not known for its Jewish history. Some are just remnants of communities that once were and others are wonderful testaments to the survival of our Jewish culture, and I think these experiences remind us of the importance of keeping our heritage alive. Living in England we are fortunate that our Matzo purchases need not be clandestine or dangerous but we should appreciate and celebrate that fact. This autumn we have lined up a wonderful choice of Jewish cultural events here in London, seminars, activities and tours for you to enjoy,  and hope that you will come and join us in our celebration.

We would love to hear of any summer travel experiences you have had, or places you have visited this summer with unexpected and surprising Jewish connections. 

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