Our Team

Erez Landau, founder of Erez Israel, is a visionary in the tourism industry, renowned for crafting transformative, content-rich travel experiences. With expertise in history, geopolitics, and hospitality, he has worked with global organizations like Microsoft, Google, and the NBA, as well as leading academic institutions. Erez excels in combining professional event design with compelling storytelling, offering unique insights into Israel’s heritage. His innovative approach and commitment to excellence have established him as a leading guide and tourism pioneer. He emphasizes connecting with Israel by walking its historic paths and experiencing its landscapes firsthand. Outside of work, Beni competes in international paragliding events, enjoys off-road driving, and treasures family adventures with his two young children.

Roy Barda, our Experience Advisor for Group Experiences and Event Creation, specializes in planning complex logistical trips and creating unforgettable events. With 16 years of experience and thousands of successful productions, he excels in turning dreams into reality through meticulous attention to detail. Roy builds strong relationships with partners, ensuring the perfect match of locations, suppliers, and elements for every trip or event. Born and raised in Israel, he served as a paratrooper in the Nahal Corps and now lives on a kibbutz in Emek Hefer with his wife and three children. He emphasizes connecting with Israel by walking its historic paths and experiencing its landscapes firsthand. Outside of work, Beni competes in international paragliding events, enjoys off-road driving, and treasures family adventures with his two young children.

Ruth Chen, Experience Advisor for Multi-Generation Family Experiences, combines her passion for travel with her love for Israel. Born in England, she discovered Israel as a teenager and made Aliyah 30 years ago, raising her family on a kibbutz. With a background in the travel industry, Ruth now creates unique, tailored trips to Israel and enjoys meeting clients during their visits. A seasoned traveler, her favorite journey was to Japan, though she cherishes exploring Israel’s rich history, geography, and culture. In her free time, Ruth enjoys sports, dining out, and live music.

Kim Dimevski, an Experience Advisor, was born in South Africa and now lives in Caesarea after making Aliyah with her two children. Passionate about travel and adventure, she loves the ocean, exploring new experiences, and trying different cuisines. A lifelong equestrian, Kim has competed and ridden on adventure trails worldwide.

Beni, our master tour guide, specializes in creating unique tour experiences and expertly pairing guides with groups. Born in Russia and raised in Mizpe Ramon, Israel, he developed a passion for the outdoors while exploring the Negev Desert. A licensed tour guide since high school, Beni has years of experience guiding diverse groups, sharing his love for nature and Israel. He emphasizes connecting with Israel by walking its historic paths and experiencing its landscapes firsthand. Outside of work, Beni competes in international paragliding events, enjoys off-road driving, and treasures family adventures with his two young children.

Shelly Barda, our Experience Advisor for Partner Liaison and Event Creation, specializes in crafting tailored events and building strong relationships with partners. With a keen eye for detail, she ensures every element of your event is a perfect fit, from selecting the ideal location to bringing dreams to life. Born and raised in Israel to South African parents, Shelly lives on a kibbutz in Emek Hefer with her husband and three children. Her advice? Combine a special occasion with travel for an unforgettable experience that ties you to the location. He emphasizes connecting with Israel by walking its historic paths and experiencing its landscapes firsthand. Outside of work, Beni competes in international paragliding events, enjoys off-road driving, and treasures family adventures with his two young children.

Gonen Bar Lev, Experience Advisor for Group Experiences and Partner Liaison, ensures every aspect of family and group tours is meticulously planned and seamless. He collaborates with vendors and suppliers to create intentional, unforgettable trips. Outside the office, Gonen leads unique musical instrument workshops, including sessions on the didgeridoo. His travel tip? Make every moment count—embrace new adventures, grow, and connect with your companions and the beauty of Israel. He emphasizes connecting with Israel by walking its historic paths and experiencing its landscapes firsthand. Outside of work, Beni competes in international paragliding events, enjoys off-road driving, and treasures family adventures with his two young children.

Reut, a professional tour guide since 2010, grew up in the Sharon region. After serving as an immigration and education officer in the Golani Brigade and earning a degree in Israeli Studies and Government from Bar Ilan University, she began guiding youth and families. With expertise in environmental education, she brings a rich perspective to her tours. Reut is married and a proud mother of three. He emphasizes connecting with Israel by walking its historic paths and experiencing its landscapes firsthand. Outside of work, Beni competes in international paragliding events, enjoys off-road driving, and treasures family adventures with his two young children.

Shay David is a strategist specializing in business promotion and advertising, with over 10 years of experience managing leading clients in the Israeli market

Julia Gelbard, VP of Mitzvah Trip, ensures everything runs seamlessly behind the scenes, specializing in multi-generational family tours. Passionate about Israel, she creates meaningful experiences that fulfill diverse travel dreams. Born in London and making Aliyah in 1987, Julia now lives in Zichron Ya’akov with her two children. Her favorite part of the job is hearing how varied group expectations are met post-trip. Julia’s travel tip? The more, the merrier—she excels at making every traveler, regardless of age or ability, feel included and satisfied. He emphasizes connecting with Israel by walking its historic paths and experiencing its landscapes firsthand. Outside of work, Beni competes in international paragliding events, enjoys off-road driving, and treasures family adventures with his two young children.

Leora Givati, an Experience Advisor at Mitzvah Trip, is passionate about sharing her love for Israel’s vibrant spirit, culture, and landscapes. With expertise in logistics and a deep knowledge of Israel’s iconic and hidden gems, Leora ensures every traveler enjoys a seamless and unforgettable journey. She is dedicated to creating authentic experiences that showcase Israel’s rich history and everyday life, helping visitors connect with the country as locals do. From the bustling markets of Tel Aviv to the serene hills of Galilee, Leora’s passion and expertise make every trip a memorable adventure. He emphasizes connecting with Israel by walking its historic paths and experiencing its landscapes firsthand. Outside of work, Beni competes in international paragliding events, enjoys off-road driving, and treasures family adventures with his two young children.