About Shira Victor

I grew up in Chicago (Skokie), went to college in New York (Barnard College, Columbia University), made Israel my home, and married a South African living in Israel.

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I worked for many years in hi-tech, travelling to India, Korea, China, Portugal, Britain, and France for work. Finally, I left the world of hi-tech, to follow my dream of becoming a tour guide.

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I came to Israel on a six-month internship program, and instantly fell in love with the country. Six months stretched into twelve, then twenty-four, and then I made aliyah. Now, after more than 30 years living here, I still consider myself blessed to live here.

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Israel is a many faceted country, the depths of each facet are waiting to be explored. There is the ever-changing geopolitical facet, with its various narratives. The history and archaeology of the country date back to prehistoric times, but are very rich from the bronze age. Judaism, Christianity, and Islam all have holy sites here, but even within each of these religions there are various sects in Israel; many additional religions also have populations here - the Bahai, Druze, Maronites, and more. A variety of cultures thrive here, from the Circassians, Armenians, Ethiopians - just to name a few! Taking a step outside, our natural resources are there to be enjoyed - trails for hiking or biking, natural springs for swimming, scenic views, and migrating birds in the spring and autumn.

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My appreciation and enthusiasm are unique, the result of having discovered the country as an adult. My understanding of the people comes from having lived here for so many years. My knowledge comes from the intensive training of the tour guide course and my natural curiosity.

My goal is to share my enthusiasm for the country, while presenting it in a way where you can understand. My dream is that you return home with pictures, memories, and a deeper understanding and appreciation for Israel. My hope is that you return again and allow me to guide  you again, further deepening your connection to the land.

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