What Strikes First-Time Visitors as Interesting or Surprising When They Arrive in Palestine

For those who have never met a Palestinian, arriving in Palestine can be a fascinating and eye-opening experience. Whether you land in Ramallah, theoretically under Palestinian Authority, or in Akka, now under Israeli authority, you will find that Palestinians are deeply human and normal. They are not the faceless, heartless terrorists as often portrayed in media.

The Everyday Reality

Normal Human Beings: You may be surprised to discover that Palestinians breathe oxygen, talk, and walk just like the rest of us. There are no marauding terrorists with machine guns killing Jews; they are simply everyday people.

Friendliness in Ramallah: You might be struck by their friendliness, especially in Ramallah. It could even seem too friendly. In fact, this openness is a reflection of their welcoming nature. Israeli army jeeps can be seen driving through downtown Ramallah without hindrance, which is a consequence of the occupation.

Resentment and Anger: Living under Israeli control and occupation for over 70 years can understandably lead to anger and resentment. This is a defining part of the Palestinian experience, and it's understandable that their anger is seen as striking by newcomers.

A Safer Place Despite the Conflict

Palestine is also a place of safety, particularly as the weather is often pleasant and the food and scenery are excellent. From the Dead Sea to the Mediterranean, Palestine offers a rich variety of natural and cultural experiences. Everybody there is safe, whether day or night.

Common Misconceptions about Palestine

There are many misconceptions that first-time visitors might have:

Palestine is officially called Israel but is more of a political slogan. The Palestinians are known as Shami Arabs who have been forced into a political conflict by their brothers. Initially, many Arabs did not identify as Palestinians because the term is of Latin origin.

Despite the occupation, Palestinians continue to live with a smile and an unshakable hope for a better future. This is perhaps one of the most surprising aspects of your visit: seeing people facing immense difficulties but maintaining their humanity and hope.

Experiences and Highlights

Guided Tours and Experiences: As a non-Palestinian visitor, you might not get to see the full picture unless you have a guide. You will be shown the slums and damage, and local stories of hardship. This reflects the reality some parts of Palestine face, but also highlights the ongoing conflict.

Sightseeing: In areas captured from Jordan in 1967, you might see Israeli army patrols and roadblocks. However, in most areas, people go about their daily lives. You will not be told that the government is a military government, which is not entirely accurate.

Compulsory Identification: If asked for identification by a police officer in Israel or a soldier in the occupied areas, you must show your ID. This is a common practice in many countries, including the Netherlands.

Guided Tours: What you see and where you stay during your visit depends on your guide. They might stop at certain stores or locations, but there might be better options just a short distance away.

Ultimately, arriving in Palestine offers a unique opportunity to witness a complex and layered reality that challenges many preconceived notions. It is a place of both struggle and resilience, and a reminder of the ongoing conflict in the region.