By Katie Vasquez
In the shadow of the Williamsburg Bridge, Frieda Vizel is building bridges of understanding between worlds.
The former member of the Satmar Hasidic community now leads tours through Brooklyn’s Williamsburg, offering outsiders an inside look at a culture often shrouded in mystery.
Vizel grew up in a Hasidic village upstate, fully expecting to spend her life there.
But in her mid-20s, a profound transformation led her to leave. Rather than sever ties completely, she chose to stay connected, drawn to the beauty many find in the community.
“I always felt very strongly, like, in my heart of hearts, I can understand the beauty that a lot of people find in it. And I wanted to stay tapped into that,” she said.
About 12 years ago, Vizel began guiding tours to demystify Hasidic life and challenge prejudices she once experienced herself.
“Tell stories that are human, that come from a really deep place and that demystify or take away prejudices that I felt very affected by when I was Hasidic,” she explained.
On a recent Friday tour, visitors observed the community preparing for Shabbos, a day of celebration and prayer.
Guest Saul Dasneves-Alfaro found it “really fascinating learning about the way the Hasidics live their lives and also how they are preparing for the Shabbos.”
Vizel has also cultivated a large online following, sharing insights into everyday aspects of Hasidic culture—like window gates where children observe the world without screens, a stark contrast to modern childhoods filled with TV and video games.North Carolina resident Denise Carson discovered Vizel online and booked a tour for her birthday.
“I just came across her videos and just really appreciate how respectful she is. And her story,” Carson said.
Remarkably, Vizel has earned appreciation from within Williamsburg itself.
“I have felt very embraced as a voice that is not sanctioned by the official authority in the community… People stop me on the street and they are like, love your content. I appreciate what you’re doing. Keep it up. It’s been amazing,” she shared.
While Vizel hopes to eventually shift focus to content creation, she continues bridging communities through her tours.
Those interested can book a tour at friedavizel.com by clicking the calendar on the homepage.