Thanks OP.
We had great flight experience b"h especially for the price we paid ($380)! On the way to TLV we were supposed to stop in Zurich for 5 hours, but the fight had mechanical problems so they just put us all on the direct flight PHL-TLV even though we would most probably not miss the connection.
All in all we have to applaud USAirways, they have great service!
The flight from EWR-PHL was actually fun, an experience we really enjoyed.
Getting home from PHL was a DISASTER on Thanksgiving eve! Took over 5 hours using mostly NJ transit trains. Amtrack tickets ran for $171 and up. I guess it was a mistake to come home on a date like that, but you live and learn.
All in all AFTER a good nights sleep I can honestly say this trip was WELL WORTH its money!