Best Experience to Date

I visited The Excellence Centre in Hebron for two weeks on the Human Rights program. Although my two weeks flew by, I was lucky enough to experience so much in such a short time.

Not only was it my first time in Palestine, but it was also my first time in an Arab country, therefore the cultural difference was initially a worry for me, however, I quickly learned that the locals are very welcoming of internationals, and I felt so looked after throughout my time in Hebron, both in and out of the center. The culture and environment are something I have found so heartwarming, something I would recommend everyone experience at least once if they can.

I arrived in Hebron not knowing how to even say hello, not only I can say hello, I can now greet people in different ways, ask people how they are, where they are from, and so on. I have learned more than I thought I would in such little time. I hope to develop this for my return visit of course!
I have visited many places, every day the center would organize visits for us to see different things, such as the Ibrahim Mosque, the Old Town of Hebron, glass factories, the original Kufiyya factory, the al Fawwar camp and we even got to stay the night at a village in the Masafer Yatta community. A very eye-opening experience to say the least.

One of the questions I had before my visit, was wondering if I would feel safe. As a young woman, I can now say there has not been one moment I did not feel safe, even walking at night. The locals are extremely friendly, they love to make conversation as they love a chance to practice their English. The Palestinians are honestly the most wonderful people I have ever had the chance to meet. I have made many friends that I hope to keep in touch with, and the people are a huge highlight of my visit overall.

My host family, Marwa, and Osama. I cannot thank them enough for their outstanding hospitality, they look after their volunteers so well. Before Ramadan started we would have breakfast together every day, prepared by the lovely Marwa. Now with Ramadan, she cooks the most delicious food for Iftar that we all have together. The apartment was very comfortable and in the perfect location near the center.

I loved my stay and very much hope to experience this again in the near future, to extend my Arabic and engage more in the amazing Palestine! Inshallah!