The ancient land of Palestine – traditionally viewed as an area between the Mediterranean and the River Jordan – has a turbulent history, and the Palestinian Territory is currently divided into the West Bank and the Gaza Strip.
It’s easy enough to visit the West Bank, either as part of a tour, or – with a little planning – independently. Visit the Biblical city of Bethlehem, where the Church of the Nativity is built over the cave said to be the birthplace of Christ; check out Jericho – near to the Dead Sea, and one of the oldest cities in the world; try some of the world’s best kanafe in Nablus; visit Yasser Arafat’s tomb in Ramallah; or take a trip to one of the numerous refugee camps, to hear firsthand the stories of Palestinians displaced from their land.
Make sure to check out our article on How to: Travel safely in the West Bank, Palestinian Territories.