Go Palestine - The Palestinian Center for Cultural Exchange

Program Reviews

Adam
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Just Amazing

Hi, I’m Adam, a 26-year-old from Poland. Visiting Palestine has always been a dream of mine, and I found the perfect opportunity at the Go Palestine Centre in Hebron. During my stay, I participated in both a media and industry internship, which I highly recommend to anyone interested in learning about Hebron. I also volunteered for one-on-one English teaching sessions and took Arabic lessons.

My days were full and enriching. Mornings were spent visiting local businesses or media outlets, where I learned firsthand about these industries and interviewed various professionals. Despite my limited Arabic, Ms. Hala from the centre translated everything for me, ensuring smooth and productive days. We also visited refugee camps, which was an eye-opening experience.

Afternoons were dedicated to teaching English or attending Arabic lessons with the talented Mohammad. Evenings offered me leisure time to meet new people and unwind. With two days off each week, I explored the West Bank—visiting Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Mar Saba, and Jericho, with Mar Saba being a standout.

My time in Hebron deepened my understanding of its culture. I explored the Old City, museums, Israeli settlements, and witnessed the impacts of occupation firsthand. Despite concerns, safety was never an issue; the locals were incredibly hospitable, and I encountered minimal issues with Israeli soldiers and checkpoints. Will come again!

Pros
  • Exploring Palestinian Culture
  • Supportive staff
  • Understanding the conflict
Jeanette
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Learned So Much!

Go Palestine is the perfect way to learn useable Arabic. I had weekly zoom classes with Dua’a, and self studied during the rest of the week using curriculum she recommended. Since I was starting from zero, it was slow progress, but she never gave up on me. Her goal was to teach me the beauty of the language, and she really did! It’s lovely and I can now read and write it. I love Palestine and have visited it numerous times, and Go Palestine only deepened my appreciation for its beautiful culture.

Response from Go Palestine - The Palestinian Center for Cultural Exchange

Thank you for sharing your experience! We're delighted to hear that you found Go Palestine to be the perfect way to learn Arabic. Dua’a is truly dedicated to her students, and it’s wonderful to know that her support and recommended curriculum helped you progress from zero to being able to read and write Arabic. We're glad that our program deepened your appreciation for Palestinian culture. Your love for Palestine and positive feedback mean a lot to us!

Erick
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Greatly improved Arabic proficiency through a tailored curriculum

I feel so grateful to have found this program.

I began studying intensive Arabic with Ustaaza Dua'a and we created a study plan with clearly identified objectives for my learning journey. I entered this study as someone who had a few years of formal study/some experience speaking Arabic with family as a child - a mix of experiences which I thought may be difficult to accommodate. I wanted to focus on learning the Palestinian dialect but they offer classes for formal Arabic as well and that curriculum is often weaved into my coursework.

Dua'a had no problems creating tailored lessons for me and from day one I began learning Arabic that I was immediately able to use. The learning materials are fantastic - I have studied languages all my life, including doing a dual degree in French and a minor in Japanese and the materials we used and instruction methodology is as good if not better than any I've had. Dua'a is a gifted and empowering teacher and all of the Go Palestine team are extremely kind, enthusiastic about what they do, and willing to go to great lengths to accommodate your needs.

Response from Go Palestine - The Palestinian Center for Cultural Exchange

Thank you for your heartfelt review! We're thrilled to hear about your positive experience with our Arabic program. It’s wonderful to know that Ustaaza Dua'a was able to tailor the lessons to fit your unique background and goals. We take pride in our high-quality materials and dedicated teaching methods, and it's great to hear that they met your expectations. Your kind words about our team's enthusiasm and commitment mean a lot to us. We’re glad to have been part of your Arabic learning journey and look forward to continuing to support you!

Ashley
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Arabic is an amazing language

During my time in Hebron, I had the privilege of working closely with Dana, an extraordinary teacher who tailored her instruction to fit my needs perfectly. Through our one-on-one sessions, I made significant strides in speaking, listening, and writing Arabic, which boosted my confidence in ways I never imagined.

Yet, this program wasn't just about language lessons. It offered eye opening day trips to places like the refugee camp in Hebron and Bethlehem, where I gained profound insights into Palestinian culture and society. Staying with a local host family further enriched my experience, allowing me to fully immerse myself and practice Arabic in real-life situations.

I wholeheartedly recommend this Arabic intensive program to anyone looking for a truly unique and unforgettable experience. It's not just about improving your Arabic; it's about creating lasting memories that will stay with you forever. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity!

Response from Go Palestine - The Palestinian Center for Cultural Exchange

Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We're thrilled to hear that your time in Hebron was so impactful and that Dana's personalized teaching made such a difference in your Arabic skills.

We're glad you enjoyed the cultural trips and the immersive experience with your host family. Your recommendation means a lot to us, and we're delighted that the program created lasting memories for you. We hope to welcome you back in the future!

Jessica
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Finding peace in Hebron

At first, I was worried about traveling to Palestine and Hebron because of the on going war. But when I got there, I found my fears were unnecessary. The people of Hebron were very welcoming and kind, and the center made sure we were safe.

My time at the Palestine Center was one of the best experiences I've had in all my travels. While I was there, I taught English to children in a Al Fawar refugee camp, which I think could really help their futures. The center also arranged trips for us to visit different cities in Palestine, giving us a full cultural experience.

I'll be coming back next year because there's so much more to experience.

Response from Go Palestine - The Palestinian Center for Cultural Exchange

Thank you for sharing your experience! We're delighted to hear that your initial worries were put to rest and that you found the people of Hebron welcoming and kind. It's wonderful that you enjoyed your time teaching at Al Fawar refugee camp and felt it could make a difference. We're glad the cultural trips enhanced your stay, and we're excited to welcome you back next year for more enriching experiences!

Conor
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

My Palestine Dream

Visiting Palestine had always been a dream of mine. My recent two-month-long experience with the Teach English in Palestine program completely changed my perspective. Despite the effects of war, the country is beautiful, the people are warm, the food is delicious, and the atmosphere is wonderful.

Teaching English to children in the refugee camps aged 8-13 was incredibly rewarding. The students were eager to learn, and the staff, especially Mr. Mohammad, were very supportive. I also connected with internationals and locals curious about other cultures. In addition, learning some Arabic was a bonus that I plan to continue. My teacher Duaa was amazing! Shukran Duaa :)

Shukran to all of you, and I hope to return in the future!

Conor
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

My Palestine Dream

Visiting Palestine had always been a dream of mine. My recent two-month-long experience with the Teach English in Palestine program completely changed my perspective. Despite the effects of war, the country is beautiful, the people are warm, the food is delicious, and the atmosphere is wonderful.

Teaching English to children in the refugee camps aged 8-13 was incredibly rewarding. The students were eager to learn, and the staff, especially Mr. Mohammad, were very supportive. I also connected with internationals and locals curious about other cultures. In addition, learning some Arabic was a bonus that I plan to continue. My teacher Duaa was amazing! Shukran Duaa :)

Shukran to all of you, and I hope to return in the future!

Response from Go Palestine - The Palestinian Center for Cultural Exchange

Thank you for your heartfelt review! We're thrilled that your dream of visiting Palestine was such a transformative experience. It's wonderful to hear that teaching English to children in the refugee camps was rewarding and that our supportive staff, especially Mr. Mohammad, made a positive impact.

We're glad you enjoyed the beautiful country, warm people, delicious food, and the opportunity to learn Arabic with Duaa. Shukran to you as well, and we look forward to welcoming you back in the future!

Charlotte
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Can't Wait to Return

I don't know where to start. My experience at the Human Rights Internship has been amazing. Every day begins with a delicious Palestinian breakfast, followed by meetings with local human rights NGOs to learn about the situation in Palestine, especially during the Gaza war. Teaching English to children aged 7-12 was wonderful, and it was inspiring to see how a little help can make a big difference for them.

I also took Arabic classes with Mohammad, who is a very informative teacher. Living with a host family enhanced my learning experience even more. Despite what I had heard, Hebron feels safe and welcoming. Palestinians are very friendly people and very generous . I would highly recommend this program, and I'll definitely come back to Palestine!

Pros
  • Supportive Staff
  • Friendly Palestinians
  • Organised Schadule
Cons
  • Occupation
Response from Go Palestine - The Palestinian Center for Cultural Exchange

Thank you for your amazing review! We're delighted to hear that you had such a positive experience with the Human Rights Internship. It’s wonderful that you enjoyed the Palestinian breakfasts, meetings with local NGOs, and teaching English to children.

We're glad Mohammad's Arabic classes and your host family enriched your learning experience. It's great to know you found Hebron safe and welcoming, and we appreciate your recommendation. We look forward to your return to Palestine!

Sue
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Palestine

I’m a 65 year old woman, who traveled solo in April, 2024 to Hebron in the middle of an unjust war. And I had the most incredible experience of my life with “Go Palestine.” I only wish I could have stayed longer than a week…which I will definitely do the next time. I felt safer in Hebron than in my hometown of Chicago. (But be careful crossing the street here!) Every day was packed with activities from visiting cultural and humanitarian organizations, to learning Arabic, to teaching English, to group cooking a local dish. My favorite part was visiting the nearby refugee camp. But that was because of the people. And I have never met a more welcoming people than the Palestinians. From my arrival day, when I got lost (but it’s in my nature to get lost.) A group of teen boys came up to me and helped me lug my two suitcases to the Center. And when I tried to give them a little money for helping me, they were aghast and refused! (What teenage boy wouldn’t like a little money for a soda or ice cream?) Super respectful men, women and children were always asking if I needed help, or wanting to practice their English with me. And the wonderful local family that I stayed with, were always watching out for me. Everyone who was working or volunteering at the center were amazing. Even though I was the oldest one there, they made me feel very welcome, and a part of the group. I highly recommend it to anyone of any age, gender, religion or nationality. It’s affordable and I learned more in my one week of immersion education, than I would have learned in a year of online research. It’s still difficult to truly know what’s it like to live as an everyday Palestinian, but I imagine that it would not have been much different from life in the Warsaw Ghetto in 1942. Except that now the oppressed, is the oppressor. And the worst part…is that in 1942 the world had “an excuse” for not knowing.…but in 2024…there’s no excuse.

What was your funniest moment?
Interacting with the children. They’re all amazing and open minded and brutally honest.
Pros
  • The amazing people
  • It’s safe and easy to get around
  • Very affordable
Cons
  • I should have studied Arabic first
  • I wish I was a better photographer
  • I wish I could have stayed longer than a week
Response from Go Palestine - The Palestinian Center for Cultural Exchange

Thank you for your wonderful review of your experience with Go Palestine. We're thrilled to hear that your trip exceeded your expectations and that you felt safe and welcomed throughout your stay. Your reflections on the warmth of the Palestinian people and the meaningful activities you engaged in are truly appreciated. We're grateful for your support and look forward to welcoming you back for future adventure :)

Alex
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

A Journey of Discovery & Hospitality

I'm Alex from Australia, and my time in Palestine, particularly Hebron, has been nothing short of incredible. Every day brought a new adventure, from exploring the beautiful country to experiencing the warmth and hospitality of its people despite the ongoing war in Gaza.

The Go Palestine center holds countless cherished memories for me. It was a hub of new friendships and eye-opening experiences, offering a unique window into Palestinian life. Throughout the Law internship program, I had the privilege of delving into the intricacies of the Palestinian legal system, visiting courtrooms, and meeting with lawyers. Additionally, my visits to various human rights NGOs provided valuable insights into their crucial work with the Palestinian community.

What struck me most during my stay was the rich tapestry of Palestinian culture and the genuine kindness of its people. From delving into the nation's history to immersing myself in its vibrant traditions, Palestine continually surprised and enchanted me.

Contrary to common misconceptions and the current situation, Palestine is a remarkably safe and welcoming destination. Throughout my time here, I felt entirely at ease, surrounded by stability and warmth, debunking stereotypes perpetuated by the media.

I wholeheartedly recommend experiencing Palestine firsthand, regardless of your background or location. Its beauty, culture, and hospitality are unparalleled. Participating in programs like the one offered by the Go Palestine center offers a unique and enriching perspective on this remarkable country and its people.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
My advice to future travelers on this program would be to approach it with an open mind and a willingness to immerse yourself fully in the experience. Take the time to connect with the locals, learn about their culture, and engage with the various opportunities provided by the program, such as visiting lawyers, courtrooms, and human rights NGOs.

Embrace every moment of your journey, from exploring the beauty of Palestine to experiencing its rich history and traditions. Most importantly, don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and truly embrace the unique opportunity to learn and grow during your time in Palestine.
Pros
  • Memorable cultural connections
  • Insightful legal education
  • Warm hospitality immersion
Response from Go Palestine - The Palestinian Center for Cultural Exchange

Alex, we're thrilled you had an amazing time with Go Palestine. Your experience exploring, learning, and connecting with the community is truly inspiring. We hope to see you again :)