Deep and mindblowing

My stay in Hebron lasted for about two months and the first three weeks were spent learning Arabic at the Excellence Center. I was attracted to the Study Arabic Intensive Program for three reasons :

- a one-to-one teacher
- living in a host family
- cultural activities in the city

... and I was absolutely not disappointed! The people there are warm, welcoming, friendly and laid-back. They took me under their wings right away so I did not feel any homesickness. They are simple and at the ready if we need anything, and they still display a strong professional behavior in their programs and services. I loved my Arabic teacher with whom I had many interesting conversations. I learned as much about the language as I did about the culture, and being hosted in a Palestinian family was perfect for practicing Arabic, and meeting Palestinian people. I've made great friends there thanks to the people I met through my host family.

Hebron is a fascinating place due to its rich history and its wonderful inhabitants.The beauty of the old town leaves you speechless and humbled. The fact that it is still inhabited makes for some extraordinary sight and experiences. For instance, I have been driven around there in a car and I still can't quite get over how that was possible ... the roads are so narrow. Go see and you will know what I mean. That's the sort of fun experience you can enjoy there - and not the least.

Unfortunately it is also invaded by human garbage (israeli soldiers and settlers). As internationals, we are safe there - but it is very important to go and witness the disastrous realities of the occupation. Choosing to visit Palestine is not a random choice - and Hebron is the only city in the West Bank that has settlements within. You can read a thousand books about it but once you get there and see for yourself the settlers having a nice walk around the part of town they stole, wearing rifles on their backs like normal, and the soldiers protecting them and monitoring and intruding on every aspects of Palestinians lives at best (and at worse...), you just cannot fathom how such a thing can be.

In short, if you have the will and the means, do take this course. It is worth it - for the mind, the heart and the intellect.