Where it all began
by: Soukaina, Italy
“This was the first solo trip of my entire life, and it became a deeply meaningful experience for me both as a human being and as a midwife. I had planned to enter Palestine by crossing the King Hussein Bridge, the border between Jordan and the West Bank. However, the Palestinian side is under Israeli control, and I was very nervous because I come from a Muslim-majority country, even though I hold an Italian passport.
When I arrived at the Israeli-controlled part of the border, the officers asked me several questions about my trip and kept me waiting for about thirty minutes. Then another officer asked me the same questions again. Eventually, I was allowed to cross.
Thankfully, I was well prepared. I had booked hotels and B&Bs in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv with free cancellation, and I printed out my fake itinerary in case they asked for proof. So when the officers questioned me, I answered calmly, without hesitation, and without showing how nervous I really was.
Alhamdulillah, once I crossed the border, I took a bus to Jericho, where I had arranged a pick-up with Travel to Palestine. Mohammed, the taxi driver, was waiting for me — he was the first Palestinian person I met on this beautiful journey. So, if you are wondering whether you can cross the border or not, don’t hesitate. Go. Despite the stress before crossing, I swear, it is worth it.
I was able to stay for only ten days, but they were enough for me to understand how magical and beautiful Hebron is. I felt part of a big family, surrounded by love, protection, and an incredible enthusiasm to share their life and culture. Osama and Marwa, who run the Center despite all the difficulties, made me feel truly welcomed.
I joined the health care program and had the opportunity to participate in the “Women 4 Women” project and I was deeply moved to see how women have so much power there to transform women’s healthcare.
I also had the chance to visit the hospital and speak with my midwives colleagues there. I admired them greatly. I met wonderful people who will remain in my heart forever. Even though I left almost two months ago, I still cry when I look at the photos because this experience changed my life. I realized that while I went there to help people as a volunteer, in many ways, they were the ones who helped and saved me.
Now, I cannot wait to return to my beloved Hebron.
What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
The best advice I can give to future travelers who choose to enter Palestine by land is this: don’t be afraid. It can actually become a wonderful opportunity to visit Jordan first and release some of the stress before crossing the border.
And once you arrive in Palestine, you will be welcomed and you will feel completely immersed from the very first moment. The city will surprise you every single day with its beauty.”
