Pilot Trip Checklist

Category

Task

Status

Pre-Trip Preparation

Define objectives (housing, schools, jobs, etc.)

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Pre-Trip Preparation

Research 3–5 target cities or communities

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Pre-Trip Preparation

Contact absorption centers / municipal coordinators

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Pre-Trip Preparation

Book meetings with real estate agents and schools

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Pre-Trip Preparation

Schedule meetings with potential employers or agencies

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Travel & Logistics

Book flights and accommodation

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Travel & Logistics

Rent car / arrange transportation between cities

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Travel & Logistics

Purchase SIM card / data plan for local calls

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Community Visits

Tour neighborhoods in 3–5 shortlisted cities

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Community Visits

Meet English-speaking residents or local olim

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Community Visits

Visit synagogues / community centers

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Housing Research

View rental apartments within your budget

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Housing Research

Visit sample new developments / resale properties

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Housing Research

Ask about arnona (municipal tax) and building fees

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Education

Visit public and private schools / ganim

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Education

Discuss integration programs and language support

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Employment

Meet with potential employers / recruiters

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Employment

Check degree recognition / licensing requirements

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Employment

Ask about local job markets and commuting times

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Daily Living

Visit supermarkets, clinics, and shopping areas

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Daily Living

Test public transportation and traffic at rush hour

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Daily Living

Estimate grocery and household costs

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Bureaucracy & Banking

Visit Misrad Haklita / Misrad Hapnim for information

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Bureaucracy & Banking

Visit banks to understand account setup process

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Bureaucracy & Banking

Check health insurance options

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Budgeting

Record expenses for flights, food, transport, and lodging

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Budgeting

Compare Israeli costs to current cost of living

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Reflection

Discuss impressions with family

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Reflection

Identify preferred city or neighborhood

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Reflection

Summarize next steps and contacts for follow-up

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