7 Reasons to Visit Palestine: Why should you visit Palestine? This remarkable destination uniquely blends ancient history, rich culture, and breathtaking landscapes. From the bustling streets of cities like Ramallah and Nablus to the serene hills of the countryside, Palestine is a land where tradition and modernity coexist, creating a vibrant tapestry of experiences. Whether you’re a history buff, a food lover, or someone seeking meaningful cultural exchanges, Palestine promises unforgettable moments at every turn.
Beyond its historical landmarks and cultural treasures, visiting Palestine is an opportunity to connect with its resilient and welcoming people. Their stories, hospitality, and warmth leave a lasting impression on anyone who takes the time to engage. Every corner of Palestine, from the lively markets to the peaceful olive groves, tells a story waiting to be discovered. If you’re looking for a destination that offers depth, beauty, and authenticity, Palestine deserves a spot at the top of your travel list.
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“Because it’s a Beautiful Place”
Whether you enjoy the sight of tree-covered hills that seem to go on forever or the glow of city lights along an urban skyline, Palestine has something to offer everyone in terms of aesthetic appeal. Smaller towns in the south, such as Beit Sahour and Beit Jala, are surrounded by greenery, and the mountainous landscape makes an awe-inspiring view easy to find.
The more arid regions, such as those surrounding the Dead Sea, provide a stunning contrast to the life that they sustain. The metropolitan areas also contain a wealth of amazing things to see; the souq of Hebron is colorful and lively, and the architecture of much of Jerusalem’s Old City is great.
Dates back thousands of years, transforming a quick walk toward Jaffa Gate into a trip back through time; Bethlehem’s street art illustrates its inhabitants’ struggles, capturing the humanity of a society in turmoil. Beauty is abundant in Palestine in many forms and in many places.
The Food
Palestinian food is typically fresh and healthy. You won’t find any frozen dinners or canned soups, and fast food is far less common than in a Western country. Produce is a staple of most snacks and meals, often fresh from the garden.
Many products are locally sourced, and if you’re lucky enough to spend time with a Palestinian family, you’ll sample various delicious homemade dishes. Don’t forget the tea! “I watched my host take the tray into the garden to pick fresh mint leaves for the tea! It was so good,” said one international.
The Value of Its Holy Sites
Palestine holds countless sites of tremendous value to Islam, Judaism, and Christianity. The more well-known places include the Temple Mount and Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, and al-Ibrahimi Mosque and Machpelah Cave in Hebron. Still, if you dig a bit further, a wealth of hidden gems can be found.
Rachel’s Tomb sits on the southern outskirts of Jerusalem, notable for its sacred atmosphere despite a surrounding military zone. A short walk from the Church of the Nativity, down an unassuming alley, is the Milk Grotto, another Christian holy site. You can find Abraham’s Oak among the bustling chaos of Hebron city life. It’s located on land owned by the Russian Orthodox Church alongside a small monastery. Regardless of your religion, each site is peaceful and beautiful.
The Unique Industries
Palestine creates some of the most unique products in the world. It’s home to a number of glass and ceramic factories, in which a few dedicated workers use their skills to create beautiful pieces of art. Glass is painstakingly blown using age-old methods, and ceramics are hand-sculpted and painted with intricate detail.
The factories often have an open layout, allowing visitors to watch the artists in action. The textile industry is also popular, including keffiyeh and beautifully embroidered clothing and accessories. Olive-wood carvings are widely available in Bethlehem and are renowned for the wood’s natural beauty and resilience. Cosmetic products made from fresh olive oil and the Dead Sea mud are also unique.
The Arabic Language
Arabic is a beautiful and complex language with a seemingly endless number of dialects and accents. Levantine Arabic is the dialect of choice in Palestine, and if you’re studying the language, this is especially important. Levantine Arabic, used primarily in Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, and Palestine, most closely resembles the formal Modern Standard Arabic taught in universities and language centers.
Studying Arabic in an Arabic-speaking society is also an excellent way to acquire conversation skills much faster than elsewhere. “When you’re surrounded by a language and you have to use it daily, you can learn it very quickly,” said one Arabic student.
Palestinian Hospitality
Palestinian hospitality is some of the best in the world. Guests are offered every comfort; tea, food, and good conversation are the staples of Palestinian social life. Friends and strangers alike will take a genuine interest in your life, history, and opinions and readily share their stories with you.
Even families that might not have much will share what they have and do their best to make you feel comfortable and at ease. “No matter where I went, not once did I feel like I wasn’t welcome there,” observed Lauren, an American participating in the Teach English Speak Arabic (TESA) internship program.
Because You Need to Know the Truth
When you’re playing football with your host brother or having coffee on a balcony overlooking a city skyline, it can be easy to forget Palestine‘s tumultuous history. Unfortunately, the reality of the Occupation is inescapable for those who call Palestine their home.
Walls exist in many forms; the separation barrier surrounding the West Bank is the most recognizable, but economic, political, and social blockades are obstacles that can be just as limiting. However, much must be learned from each side of the conflict.
Melanie, a Canadian also participating in the TESA program, reflected: “Regardless of opinion, it’s interesting and important to see the complexity of the political and social situation. It will challenge your views that anything is black and white.”
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