There is a reason why “Arab hospitality” is world-renowned. Spending even a couple of days in Palestine will allow you to see first-hand how welcoming, generous, and genuine the Palestinian people are. Though I have only been living in Palestine for a couple of weeks, I have found myself impressed and astounded by the levels of kindness and acceptance that I have experienced throughout the West Bank.
“Welcome!”
If you are an ajnabi—the Arabic term for foreigner—living in the West Bank, the first word that you will likely hear and continue to hear throughout the duration of your stay will be, “Welcome!” Palestinians are very interested in learning more about foreign cultures, are eager to chat and know where you are from, and are proactive in making visitors feel safe, comfortable, and at home. This eagerness is not overbearing, however. Most strangers that you pass on the street will blurt out a quick, “welcome to Palestine,” flash a smile with a nod of the head, and be on their way. At most, younger Palestinians will be eager to practice and show off some of their English skills, but they will generally keep conversation to a quick “what is your name” and “where are you from,” before offering to answer any questions you might have. Generally, Palestinians are extremely happy to help and ensure that you are having a positive experience in their land.
Unparalleled Generosity
Another way that Palestinians show their hospitality is through their generous free offerings of food, drinks, and services. On a literal daily basis, I have been offered something for free from a local vendor who has refused to accept my payment. From falafel sandwiches to fruit smoothies (known locally as cocktails, but without alcohol), cups of arabic coffee, za’atar breads, and taxi rides, Palestinians are incredibly generous. These offerings are followed-up with a smile and a simple, “Welcome to Palestine.” Even if you insist on paying, your payment will certainly be refused.
Random Conversations Turn into Friendships
As previously noted, Palestinians love speaking to foreigners, learning about different cultures, and sharing their own experiences. If it is welcomed, Palestinians are eager to engage in conversations about life in Palestine, their experiences, and answer any questions that you might have. The Palestinian perspective is often underrepresented on the world stage, so this is a great way to learn more about the unique culture, history, and day-to-day life in Palestine. If you are open to it and willing to engage with people, you will be rewarded with new friendships. A chance conversation with a Palestinian in a shared taxi can quickly develop into an invitation to dinner with a family at a local refugee camp.
Furthermore, while many Palestinian cities feel large, you will constantly run into the same people over and over again, whether it is a neighbor, a shopkeeper, or your local barber. One extended conversation with one of these individuals will result in a smile and a hello each time that you pass them on the street or see them around town. Arab life is decidedly more community-based, and with a little effort you will soon develop a network of people who are quite willing to help you in any way that they possibly can.
Palestinians are also very caring and kindness goes a long way. Treat the locals that you engage with with respect and warmth, and they will return the favor tenfold. For example, a neighbor of mine noticed that I was traveling to the volunteer center each morning with my laptop and belongings in a plastic bag. I planned to buy a small backpack in Hebron, but had yet to do so. One day as I was walking home from the volunteer center, my neighbor called me over and presented me with his own backpack to use for the remainder of my stay. This surprise act of generosity was highly appreciated. I did not even have to mention to him that I did not own a backpack; he simply noticed and wanted to help me out. I have since become better friends with him, and he invites me and the other volunteers to play soccer each week with him and his friends.
Palestinians Are Respectful
Since arriving in Palestine, I have not felt even remotely uncomfortable. People in Palestine are very socially aware, understanding, and want to make you feel as comfortable as possible as a guest in their land. While it is safe to say that the great majority of cities in the world have pushy street vendors and shop owners who hope to take advantage of tourists, I have simply not experienced this in my time in Palestine. This is likely because Palestine receives very few foreign tourists in comparison to other countries. Entering a shop or restaurant is not an intimidating experience, and purveyors will not pressure you to make a purchase or attempt to increase prices in hopes of ripping off naive tourists. Palestinians are an honest and proud people and they will do whatever they can to ensure that you feel a transaction is fair and made in good faith.
Conservative Culture
When traveling in a culture that is different from your own, it is also important to keep the local population in mind—including their beliefs, customs, and traditions—so that you are received warmly. From a Western standpoint, Palestine is a relatively conservative culture, with some variance depending on which city you are in. The country predominantly consists of religious Muslims and a smaller percentage of Christians. Because of this, locals dress more conservatively and most women wear the hijab. Foreign men are expected to wear pants and women should not wear clothing that is too revealing; however, wearing the hijab is not expected.
Unfortunately, because Palestine is relatively conservative, the expectations for men and women tend to vary. Women and men do not interact as much with one another in public, so it is unlikely—in more conservative cities like Hebron—for men and women to occupy the same space at the same time. This changes slightly in more progressive cities like Ramallah and there definitely appears to be a younger generation that is less reserved; however, it is best to err on the side of respect and to act more reserved when interacting with the opposite sex. For example, if you are a man meeting a woman in Palestine, it is best not to offer a handshake unless the woman initiates it. Many women refrain from physical contact with men due to religious reasons, so a short “Marhaba” or “Hello” will suffice. Lastly, as a woman, it is recommended to travel in either groups or with a male when possible. This is not because Palestine is dangerous for women travellers, but because travelling alone as a woman is less common and could bring unwanted attention.
Final Thoughts
The people of Palestine are amazingly kind, hospitable, generous, and welcoming. They are both eager to help foreigners better understand Palestinian culture and curious about cultures outside of their own. Traveling to Palestine with a warm heart and an open mind will ensure that you have a rewarding visit and an experience that will have you speaking of “Arab hospitality” for years to come.