My Experience in Hebron, Palestine

For anyone who wants to experience the truth of Palestine, and not a narrative spun to fit certain viewpoints and opinions, the excellence center is your single greatest tool.

You will start your journey in Hebron, at the Excellence Center's building near Hussein Stadium. Here, you'll take part in Arabic lessons (which can be scheduled and structured based on your needs/wants), and be taken on tours of the old city. You get out what you put in with the lessons. I was able to learn simple greetings, which can go a long way. Regardless, the staff is highly educated and always ready to help.

With the help of the center, I was able to visit Ramallah, and Bethlehem. As long as you plan ahead, they can help you go wherever you please. When not traveling, you can enjoy the low cost of living that Hebron offers, as well as homecooked breakfast at the Center.

If security is a concern, understand that the excellence center is located in the heart of the Palestinian controlled zone of the city, where there are not armed clashes or raids. Further, both Israelis and Palestinians live in proximity to each other in Hebron (and wherever settlements exist in the West Bank). This means there is little incentive to attack the area via airstrike. As with most everything in life, exercise common sense and listen to the advice of locals. For a comparison, I felt more in danger on vacation in Mexico than at any point during my time in Palestine.

By far, the most memorable and meaningful experience in Palestine is that of the people you'll meet. Kindness exists in abundance here, more so than anywhere I have visited before. You will be regularly invited to have coffee and dinner.

I can not put into words how much I recommend this experience offered through the excellence center.