The following was sent by a Baltimore Scoop follower, Chani Lerner of Sabra Tours

I have been a travel agent for 26 years, but growing up with a father who was a travel agent, I feel like I have been in this business since I was a baby.

Over the years I faced many challenges, like everyone in this industry. We had our ups and downs, and many times I truly wanted to quit my job. For a long time it didn’t feel like a rewarding or fulfilling career, and since COVID the entire travel agency industry has changed.

Since October 7, I’ve really tried to sell mainly El Al. They were the only airline that continued flying when so many others stopped. I always tell my clients that if El Al stops flying, it’s because it simply isn’t safe.

The past two weeks were probably the most challenging time of my life, both personally and professionally. I wanted — and still want — to make sure that every single member of our community in Israel gets back home. I hate using the word “stuck,” because you are never stuck in Israel — it is our land, our home.

But at the same time, it was also one of the most rewarding experiences to be able to help, especially parents who were so anxious to have their kids back home.

I am not upset with El Al, because I know they are doing everything they can. What has been frustrating is the lack of communication to passengers and travel agents, which left us with very few options.

I want to thank all the El Al agents who tried their best to help me help my clients, and the other travel agents who shared advice and helped my clients get to and from Israel safely. At the end of the day, we are all trying to do what is safest for everyone.

Looking back at these past weeks, I realize that maybe this is exactly why I was meant to be in this business — to be able to help people in moments when they needed it the most.

Hashem has a plan for all of us. May Hashem continue to protect Am Yisrael everywhere in the world, bring everyone home safely, and may we very soon see the days of peace and the coming of Moshiach.

Chani Lerner – Sabra Tours