עברית
Halachot and Customs
Is it permitted to go on vacation during the Three Weeks?
Question
Hello,
I would like to ask about vacationing—traveling—hotel stays during specific dates between the 17th of Tammuz and the 9th of Av: is there a halachic or religious prohibition on going on vacation/travel/hotel during these dates? I understand there are different customs, such as prohibitions on vacation/hotel stays from the 1st of Av to the 9th of Av. Is there also a prohibition from the 17th of Tammuz to the 1st of Av? If so, which communities observe this? I would appreciate an authoritative answer on this topic.
Thank you.
Answer
Hello,
According to the letter of the law, it is permitted to go on vacation during the Three Weeks. Nevertheless, this is not the appropriate time for such activities, especially from the beginning of the month of Av, as once Av begins, we diminish joy. Therefore, if possible, it would be advisable to schedule the vacation before the Three Weeks or to postpone it until after.
Sources: See Shevet HaKehati (Section of the Three Weeks, Paragraph 1, Letter 10) in the name of Rabbi Chaim Palagi, zt"l in his book, Mishnat Chaim (Page 2). Also, see in the book Nechamat Yisrael (Chapter 8, Section 3).
Best regards,
Hillel Meirs
