Many people around the world, especially those who do not visit any of Muslims countries think that these countries as strict as Saudi Arabia. For instance, that all women must be modest and wear what covers her body from top to bottom, which is not true. Not all Muslim countries strict like Saudi Arabia where women get less freedom than any women in other Muslim countries including Palestine.
Palestinian community is mix of Muslims and Christians where all live-in harmony. Muslims and Christians celebrate each other holydays like Christmas, Eid Al-Fetr, Eid Al-Adha with happiness and joy.
Palestinian women have their own freedom to drive cars, work, education, travel and have their own business. Muslims in Palestine are more open and are more welcoming to international visitors who come to Palestine for a visit. Palestinians are known of being hospitable, generous and welcoming and you will see that once you are in Palestine.
As a girl, should I cover my head or my body as Muslim women do?
No, you do not have. In Palestine, not all women wear Hijab. Some international female visitors did so to show respect to the community but it is not a rule.
What you have to know that you need to cover parts that might get people attention. For example, it is better to not wear skirt, short or a shirt that obviously reveal your top.
If you wear clothing that reveals your arms and legs, it is likely that you will receive a lot of attention. Most international female visitors opt for long trousers or pants, or skirts that reach the ankles, combined with loose-fitting shirts that reach the elbows, although t-shirts are also acceptable. Despite this fact, you can wear bikini if you want to swim in the Dead sea for example which is allowed.
Is it allowed to drink Alcohol in Palestine?
Well, in some cities the production or sale of alcohol is not allowed. For example, in Hebron, which is the most conservative city in all Palestine, drinking and selling of alcohol is not permitted at all. (click here to read an article about Hebron city)
Bethlehem City, which is only 20 minutes away from Hebron is a totally different story altogether. Christians make up less than 50% of the whole population of approximately 30,000 people. In Bethlehem you can find all kinds of alcohol in most shops, restaurants and cafés.
You might think that alcohol is allowed only in Bethlehem but this is not the case. In Ramallah you can also find alcohol in its shops, cafes and restaurants. In Birzeit, which is near Ramallah, there are long-standing traditions of excellent wine and beer production.