Next time I will stay longer

I’m Lucas from Spain. After spending the last two years in Jordan studying Arabic, I wanted to keep improving my Levantine dialect and learn more about human rights in Palestine, especially in the West Bank. Two months ago, I joined a program in Hebron, which I found to be the most interesting city in the West Bank, despite worries about the occupation and the current situation.

Exploring both parts of the city, one controlled by Israel and the other by the Palestinian Authority was very intersting. The center gave me a comforting routine with organized tours and meetings that provided deep insights into local culture, history, and current issues. Highlights included visiting Shuhada Street, the Keffiyeh factory in the West Bank, and meeting professors, lawyers, and activists.

My program was special because I documented the center’s activities with photography and videos, which made my experience more diverse. I also taught English and helped with the center's website. The staff was flexible and supportive, making my time in Hebron very fulfilling.

Palestinian hospitality is amazing, and I strongly recommend accepting invitations for coffee or meals they give a real taste of the local culture. I never felt unsafe in Hebron; the locals were welcoming and respectful, although I understand that women might face different challenges. Overall, it was an incredible experience that deepened my understanding of the region and its people.