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View Full Version : Travel advice to Ramallah?


Broncomutt
02-10-2010, 08:37 AM
I teach people how to use computer software that does mapping and analysis. This allows me to travel all over the US, and now I've just been offered my first international trip. And it's to Palestine of all places! The clients I will be meeting with are essentially the Ramallah Chamber of Commerce and the Palestinian Department of Transportation.

Travelling to the West Bank is very exciting, but not without a certain amount of anxiety also. I've been doing my homework by checking out the State Department and other international travel websites. While these websites have listed security concerns, especially in occupied territories, they seem to state that Ramallah is a relatively liberal city and that a wary traveller should be safe.

Aside from safety concerns I was a little anxious about making sure I don't accidentally offend indiginous customs as well (like showing the soles of your feet or handing something to somebody with your left hand). I don't plan to drink (alcohol) at all. I am neither Muslim nor Jewish, and although I was raised by an Irish Catholic family, I don't consider myself religous at all.

I would love to hear from anyone who is familiar with the area, customs, culture and population. I know a Bronco forum is an odd place to look for travel advice to Palestine, but I am throwing this question out on all the social networking sites I frequent.

Thanks! :)

Broncomutt
03-12-2010, 08:06 AM
OK, no Palestinian Bronco fans I guess, lol.

Any travel advice for Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Jericho, Tel Aviv or the Dead Sea would be welcome as well.

Thanks.

SouthStndJunkie
03-13-2010, 09:34 AM
Watch "You Don't Mess with the Zohan" before you go.

That One Guy
03-16-2010, 10:40 PM
I haven't been to the Holy Land but in my travels to the Middle East, I've learned that all of those customs you read about (such as the soles of your feet you mentioned) are just for playing it safe. In Iraq, you had the holiest of the holy in some areas and drunken orgies in others. Just stay on your toes, be respectful and courteous even if others seem to slack in that regard, and just be alert. No place is absolutely safe but as long as you apply common sense, you'll probably be OK from the way you talk of the place.

Good luck. Get your business done and get your tail home.

Broncomutt
03-17-2010, 10:43 AM
Watch "You Don't Mess with the Zohan" before you go.

Never really been a Sandler fan, but on an 11 hour flight, I may pick this one up.

I can never really fall asleep on planes.

Broncomutt
03-17-2010, 10:54 AM
I haven't been to the Holy Land but in my travels to the Middle East, I've learned that all of those customs you read about (such as the soles of your feet you mentioned) are just for playing it safe. In Iraq, you had the holiest of the holy in some areas and drunken orgies in others. Just stay on your toes, be respectful and courteous even if others seem to slack in that regard, and just be alert. No place is absolutely safe but as long as you apply common sense, you'll probably be OK from the way you talk of the place.

Good luck. Get your business done and get your tail home.

Thanks One Guy! Your advice is exactly along the lines of what I have been getting from our contacts in Ramallah. I do have a courteous nature (except when Broncos are involved, lol) so I feel really good about the trip.

I really do appreciate the advice and well wishes. Thanks again. :peace: