Fantastic stay in Hebron getting to know Palestinian Culture and teaching English

I had the incredible opportunity to volunteer in Hebron, Palestine, for two weeks in November/December 2024, and it was an experience I will never forget. My time there was a perfect blend of meaningful work, cultural immersion, and personal growth, and I can't recommend it enough to anyone considering a similar opportunity.

I stayed in a comfortable, well-organized apartment just a short walk from the Excellence Center, which made it really easy to get to work each day. The apartment was perfect—quiet, clean, and in a great location. It allowed me to rest after busy days, and I truly felt at home. The Excellence Center itself is an inspiring place, offering a mix of educational programs and community engagement. My main role was teaching English to students at the center as well as at the nearby Al-Fawwar refugee camp. The students were motivated, eager to learn, and the experience of teaching them was both rewarding and humbling. There was also a great community of local teachers at the center, many of whom taught both English and Arabic. They were warm, supportive, and made me feel part of the team right away.

In addition to the teaching, the Excellence Center organized several cultural explorations, which were an eye-opening experience. These guided tours took me around Hebron and the surrounding areas, offering valuable insights into Palestinian society and life. We visited important sites in the city, explored the contrasts of the old and new parts of Hebron, and delved into the complex history and politics of the region. I also had the chance to visit Jerusalem and Bethlehem, and throughout my time in Palestine, I always felt safe. The people are incredibly friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere is one of openness and hospitality. Everyone I met, whether in Hebron or in other parts of the West Bank, was eager to share their stories and culture, which made my experience even richer.

While the situation in the region is complex and it's important to stay informed about the current political climate, I personally felt well-prepared and safe throughout my time in Palestine. My advice to anyone considering a visit would be to do some research and stay up-to-date on the situation—it’s important to be informed and prepared, but if you do that, you will have an amazing experience.

Hebron itself is a city that’s both fascinating and deeply moving, with its rich religious and political history. Visiting the city, I found that it gave me a deeper understanding of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the challenges faced by Palestinians on a daily basis. It’s not just a city you visit, it’s a place that challenges you to reflect and understand.

Finally, I must mention how affordable everything was in comparison to what I’m used to in Western Europe. From accommodation to food, the costs were much lower, making the whole experience even more accessible.

Overall, my time volunteering in Hebron was a truly unforgettable experience. The people, the work, and the cultural immersion were all fantastic. I would highly recommend this experience to anyone looking to make a positive impact, gain new perspectives, and immerse themselves in a different culture. The Excellence Center and the community there made this an enriching and worthwhile experience, and I can’t wait to go back one day.