What do you think of when you hear Palestine? Do you see the war-torn images on your local news? Do you think of conflicts with its neighbors? How is it really to visit? Well, good for you I did and I liked it.
I boarded a tour bus in Jerusalem that left promptly at 8:00 am. I drove roughly 40 minutes, considering the guide went the long route to avoid a lengthy search and traffic at some of the other entrances. I knew I was in Palestine when I pulled up and saw the flag.
We first toured the city of Shepherds. This is where angels announced the birth of Jesus to the shepherds. Caves were dating back 2000 years and we visited the Field of Boaz and a 4th Century Monastery.
We then boarded the bus to head to the Milk Grotto. This is where the Holy family found refuge in the Massacre of the Innocents. We then walked to the Nativity Church, a World Heritage site, and the Birthplace of Jesus. After the church, we walked through town a bit and saw how the locals live.
The final stop was a retail and wholesale store where we picked up souvenirs and lunch.
The chicken Shawarma sandwiches are to die for. The hospitality was amazing. We were treated with water upon entry. We were later served tea and baklava. After resting here for a half hour we boarded the bus back to Jerusalem. Staring out the window I saw the high fences and barbwire and could only imagine what it must be like to live in the country. If you ever get the chance to go, even for a day like I did, go see it.
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