My name is Sophie, I’m 20 years old, and I came to Palestine from Russia for three incredible weeks to do the Teach English & Learn Levantine Arabic in Palestine program. I study standard Arabic language and history of Arabic countries in my university, so my trip to Palestine was an opportunity to practice my language skills and increase my knowledge about Palestinian history.
My experience in Hebron and at the Palestine Center (Go Palestine) was interesting and fascinating. I really enjoyed working at the center with children because they are always so happy to see foreigners from another countries, to speak with them in English and to ask some questions about their traditions and culture. The children are really engaged in the studying and learning.
During my volunteering period we visited an Old City of Hebron, some historical places of Hebron, factories and refugees camp. We’ve seen how live Palestinians people under Israel’s occupation and talked with people who suffer from it. In factories we observed the process of making glass, pottery and tissue. Also we have English classes in beautiful Palestinian villages and I personally felt in love with some of local villages (Surif is one of my favorite places in the world now!).
What I like most in the Palestinian culture it’s the people. They are really hospitable, friendly and welcoming. They always invited me in their houses, talked with me about their cultures and lavished me with traditional Palestinian meals. As for me, Palestine is safe. I feel myself safety all the time I was here. I am absolutely not scared to walk alone or riding in a taxi or just sitting in public places.
I would recommend other people to visit Palestine and to meet local people and to admire their open-mindedness and hospitality (and to try traditional maqluba!). I am grateful to the program for the opportunity to feel real Arabic culture, to live with a lovely host-family and know more about Palestine just the way it really is.
I have learned that Palestinian hospitality is like no other. The team at the center are incredibly welcoming, treating us as their own family! Having breakfast together every morning was one of the highlights of my trip. Palestine felt incredibly safe to me, and Palestinians will go out of their way to help you to feel comfortable, safe and at home.
I recommend this program to all that wish to visit Hebron.
How to apply or ask for additional information?
To apply to any of our programs: Please email Mr. Tamimi at info@gopalestine.org. Please type the name of the chosen program in the subject line. We will then contact you back!