By: Eliza Philip – Italy

To participate in this program is, for sure, one of the most enriching experiences you can have. You will not regret coming here and seeing for yourself the richness and warmth of these places. During the program, lessons on the history and the political/economic situation of the country were alternated to tours about the “real lives” of the citizens, ranging from visits to the oil and soap factories of Nablus, to the refugee camp of Balata, to the life of the nomadic Bedouins in the desert.

Moreover, you will be able to visit most of the important cities of the region; for example, we managed to visit Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Hebron, and Jericho, which are fundamental cities from both a political and spiritual point of view for people who believe in one of the great monotheistic religions. However, apart from any religious meaning, I think that to contemplate the Al-Aqsa compound or to dip your feet in the salty waters of the dead sea, is something that can’t not touch you inside.  Even more apart from the spirituality and the beauty of the country, one of the best things you will find in Palestine is the people themselves. You will never feel alone here, or cross a street without a smile.

I think this program is very important for foreign people like us, because it provides you with a clear perception of the actual situation of the country, apart from any further interpretation by a third party. I will not lie to you, it will not always be easy to manage the heat, or the walking, or the things you will see and learn, but I promise it will be for sure an experience that you will always carry in your heart.