English Teaching Volunteering in Palestine

Volunteering in the West Bank and teaching English was one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. The focus on conversational English made the classes feel natural and alive. We talked about daily life, culture, traditions, and personal experiences, which helped students feel more relaxed and less afraid of speaking English. At the beginning, many students were shy, but little by little their confidence grew. They started speaking more freely, laughing, and sharing their opinions without worrying too much about mistakes. One moment I will never forget was when we were practicing everyday conversations and a student confidently said, “Yesterday I cooked my phone instead of my food.” The whole class burst into laughter, including the student, and it turned into a great lesson about mistakes being part of learning. What stayed with me the most was the genuine connection with the people. Sharing stories, jokes, and small moments during class created a strong sense of trust and mutual understanding. This experience was not just about teaching English, it was about learning from each other and growing together. I would highly recommend this experience to anyone who wants to do something meaningful, connect on a human level, and truly understand daily life in the West Bank.

The Palestinian Center - Go Palestine responded to this reviewJanuary 23, 2026

Thank you so much for sharing your experience! We’re thrilled to hear that teaching English in the West Bank was such a meaningful journey for you. It’s wonderful that the students gained confidence, laughed, and enjoyed learning through real conversations—and moments like “cooking your phone” really show the joy of learning together! We’re glad you could connect so deeply with the community and experience mutual growth. Your story perfectly captures the heart of this program, and we’re happy you would recommend it to others looking for a meaningful and human connection.

The vidit was very usefull. I had the opportunity to enter in contact with many Universities in Hebron, and I'll build future collaborations on these contacts. This was possible thanks to the support from the Center and their contats.

I really appreciated this experience. I was much better than expected. I had the opportunity to establish many contacts with various Universities, and I hope to built future collaboration on these first contacts. I visit the city and I meet many wonderful people.

My time in Hebron was a life-altering experience. In the course of my volunteer activities, the opportunities to meet and interact with Palestinian people brought me so much joy and gratification. My primary volunteer activity was speaking English with conversation partners in sessions lasting one and a half hours. However, they often continued much longer. The conversation partners were all able to speak confidently in English, allowing us to have relaxed and frank conversations across a range of subjects. I especially enjoyed meeting with the conversation partners more than once a week, even several times a week when they were available. I left Hebron with a feeling of sadness at leaving my new friends behind, but with resolute determination that I will see every one of them again. Exploring Hebron, a Palestinian city with a rich history, was how I spent most of my free time. The Old City is no longer what it once was due to regrettable circumstances, including divisions that make it incomplete. Still, it is an enchanting, magical place where one can walk while imagining what a magnificent place it was when it was filled with residents and shops, creating a vibrant and thriving city. Finally, walking the streets of Hebron let me experience the warmth, kindness, and generosity of the Palestinian people. I looked forward to my evening strolls, and they never disappointed. I met more people than I can count, and I am so grateful to have met each and every one.

I had an incredible time, I have tried to come for a while but had scheduling problems that they were always understanding of. I came for two weeks and saw many things. The locals were incredibly hospitable and I was often invited to stay at the homes of others.

If you are considering traveling to Palestine I can not recommend signing up with the Excellence Center enough. Being from Ireland and seeing many similarities between Irish history and current events in Palestine had been thinking about ways to travel and engage with people from Palestine for some time. While I had researched many different ways and different programs once I contacted the Excellence Center I felt very much at ease. Before confirming any travel plans I had a long Zoom call with Rafat who put many of my concerns to rest with advice on traveling to Palestine, the programs they offered, and the accommodation I would have for the duration of my program. I signed up for Media and Journalism as it is an area that I hope to expand on in the future. During my 10 days in Hebron, I was introduced to different journalists, was taken to refugee camps, given walking tours of the Old City, and got to visit different Mosques in the city. I'm embarrassed to say that as an Irish person, I've been trying to relearn the Irish language on Duolingo for the past year with very little success but after just four Arabic lessons while at the center I have already learned the basics of this beautiful language. Fridays and Saturdays are “days off” in Palestine so it gave me a chance to also travel to other cities such as Ramallah and Neblus with other volunteers at the center giving us an insight into different areas and also how the occupation makes traveling around so difficult for no reason other than to be an inconvenience and intimidation for the people of Palestine. The biggest takeaway I leave Palestine with is just how amazing the people of not just the center but of all Palestinians I was lucky enough to meet while there. The other volunteers and the staff at the center gave me a sense of family more than just a school/program. We were invited into people's homes for dinners, and introduced to their families, and seeing just how positive these people remain despite living under occupation was something that will stay with me for life. Thank you to Osama, Jomanna, and all the staff and volunteers for making this an experience that I will never forget. Read Less What is your advice to future travelers on this program? I can understand why you would be nervous to travel to Palestine but you will not regret com

I’m Emma from Scotland and I chose a one-week short-term course with the refugee program. It was all very last minute with me, less than a week before actually coming to the Centre, there are a few other Centres I had contacted, but I found this one to be the most responsive. I did a few Arabic lessons which were great as I’ve been to many Arabic-speaking countries before, but I wish I had longer to learn more as the experience was positive and the first time learning a new language in many years! I liked that we had something different activity-wise every day, whether it be getting a tour of the old city, going to the glass / ceramic factory or the Keffyiah factory among other things, as well as what was most important for me, was to visit the refugee camp, which was a truly humbling heartwarming and heartbreaking experience.. we basically went everywhere tourist wise that there is in Hebron and always got a good explanation from Osama. The staff was amazing and it all seemed like we were all just one big family all in it together, we would cook dinner together some evenings and breakfast was always at 10 am with the staff and the other volunteers. It’s a very relaxed atmosphere and everyone is very easygoing time-wise, it’s not a strict schedule and everyone is extremely flexible. The evenings were spent with other volunteers where we would head out for some tea and shisha and play cards or just chat and chill. I chose to stay with a host family which was really wonderful to just see how people live and go about day-to-day life here. I had only been in Jerusalem for a few days before I came here, so still have a lot to explore and hope to come back here again as it’s one of my more memorable travel experiences, especially with the warmth and kindness and if course hospitality of the Palestinian people. It certainly opened my eyes to the struggles they go through now and have been going through for many years. I taught conversational English to a young guy who just wanted to practice his English before applying for his USA visa to be a camp counselor, I have no teaching experience, but it really didn’t matter as he just wanted to talk and have me correct him on any mistakes. I really enjoyed that part, being able to help someone like this. I came in February and the weather was very cold which I didn’t really expect, so bring warm clothes if coming in winter! I just loved everything from the food, the people, just the whole vibe of the place. Everyone would say hi just walking down the street. I went out walking around alone a lot of the time and never once felt unsafe. I feel very passionate about Palestine and its people and hope to return again soon! I definitely recommend this to anyone who wants to get into the culture and have a better understanding of what’s going on and how people actually live here. A time in my life I will never forget! Thanks to everyone who made this all possible and hope to be back soon!

Volunteering at GO Palestine was an incredible opportunity for me to immerse myself in Palestinian culture, connect with locals, and gain a deeper understanding of their daily struggles, resilience, and traditions.

My name is Genevieve and I'm a Physics PhD student from the United States. I came to the Excellence Center for one month to teach English and learn Arabic, but my experience encompasses so much more than that. I got to see the Old City of Hebron, witness discrimination against Palestinians by Israeli guards, and speak with people who endured physical violence perpetrated by the settlers and soldiers. The Excellence Center helped arrange for me to visit Ibrahimi Mosque, the glass factory, and the kuffiyeh factory. I also got to visit Bethlehem, Jerusalem, and Masafer Yatta. Everyone at the center was so warm and welcoming. We were served breakfast every day and often also enjoyed dinner with our hosts. Even the students I taught were welcoming. They sometimes gave me chocolates and were always so engaged and excited to learn. The apartment I lived in was comfortable and very close to the center. I never felt scared, even when walking alone at night as a woman. The locals always seem happy to chat with foreigners and give directions or recommendations. The local cuisine is also amazing and I'm excited to try making some of the new foods I tried here, like maqluba and sahlab. One of the most valuable parts of my experience here was getting to see the settler areas in Hebron and Masafer Yatta. Seeing the stark differences in infrastructure and quality of life between the Palestinian and settler areas was eye opening. Even though I'm sad to leave, I'm excited to be able to use my experience to educate others about what is actually happening in the West Bank. Since I'm from the luscious green pacific northwest in the US, I'm also very happy that I got to experience the natural landscape in Palestine. One of my students was kind enough to take me hiking and exploring a cave. I'm grateful that I got to have such a well rounded experience by meeting people of all ages, including students, working adults, journalists, and local human rights activists, hearing first-hand accounts of settler violence, and seeing different parts of the city including some nature. I will always remember the kind people I met here and their experiences with the occupation. My Arabic teacher Haya was extremely patient with me. I learned more Arabic from her in one month than i did in three months in America. My hosts Osama and Marwa were always kind and inviting despite having their hands full with four beautiful children. Even before I left, I was already trying to plan my next trip to visit Palestine again. The Excellence Center truly provides a unique life-changing experience and I'm so thankful to everyone I met here who welcomed me with open arms and helped me understand the local situation. I can't wait to come back and in the meantime I hope I can use my experience to support the Palestinian cause.

Last summer, I spent three weeks in Palestine. I dedicated my days to teaching English twice daily and attended Arabic classes twice a week. Fridays and Saturdays marked the weekend, and there was always something exciting to do, whether it was exploring a new Palestinian city or enjoying a social gathering in Hebron, where someone would eagerly offer to show me around. The Palestinians I met were incredibly warm and hospitable, always happy to invite me for dinner, take me bowling, guide me through the old city, or share other engaging activities. Initially, I was concerned that Palestine might feel too traditional for me, but this worry quickly faded. Everyone I encountered was respectful and understanding of cultural differences, including those related to religion.

Hi, I'm Ingrid. I spent 3 weeks in Hebron and had a great experience. My schedule was busy but allowed time to make friends, connect with my host family, Abu and Umed, and participate in teaching activities. Hebron is a vibrant city with a lot to offer. We visited the Koffiya factory, the IIM mosque, and local businesses. It’s a financial hub with shops, food, and unique cultural sites. I felt very safe here—people walk freely, even at night, and the community is very warm people. If you’re considering a trip to Palestine, I highly recommend it.

Hello, I'm Li Wei from Thailand. I spent time volunteering in Hebron, Palestine, where my days included Arabic and English classes, one-on-one conversations with Palestinians, and cultural tours. We visited places like the Ibrahimic Mosque and refugee camps. Hebron is a beautiful city with welcoming people. I felt safe here, even as a woman traveling alone. The city’s rich history and the warm hospitality made this experience unforgettable.

My time in Hebron was an incredible opportunity to immerse myself in Palestinian life. I had the chance to explore Hebron's Old Town, meet local people, and learn about the region’s rich culture and history. This experience provided me with a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by the local community, while also giving me a greater appreciation for their resilience. Overall, it was an interesting journey that left me with valuable insights into Palestine.

Hey everyone! I’m Céline, I’m 18 years old, and I’m from Canada. I finished high school last year, so I’m out exploring the world now. One of the places I really wanted to visit was Palestine, and I’m so glad I got the chance to come to Hebron. My days at the center usually started with a delicious breakfast, shared with everyone, which was always so tasty! After that, I had English lessons, but they weren’t traditional lessons, it felt more like a cultural exchange. I loved how I could ask so many questions about Palestinian culture and daily life, and I got to learn so much in a relaxed, one-on-one setting. Sometimes I had Arabic lessons or another English discussion, and there were also trips to different places around Hebron, factories, universities, and more. One of the highlights for me was the weekly trip to the refugee camp on Mondays. Hebron is such a lively city, and I really enjoyed it. It’s the biggest city in the West Bank, so there’s always something happening, and there are lots of nice restaurants and cafes to visit with friends. The old city is stunning, and the markets are full of life. Don’t miss out on the Ibrahim Mosque, it’s beautiful! The food here is amazing, I can’t say enough about how much I loved it. Everything I tasted was so flavorful and fresh. Overall, I felt safe during my time in Hebron, and the people here are incredibly kind and welcoming, especially towards foreigners. At first, you might find it surprising how often people invite you for tea or want to get to know you, but it’s just part of their hospitality, and it’s really heartwarming. Everyone is eager to learn about other cultures and countries. To anyone thinking about coming here: definitely do it! Come with an open heart and an open mind, and be ready for some spontaneous adventures. The best experiences I had were often unplanned – whether it was someone inviting me to see something or showing me a hidden gem of the city. That’s the best way to experience Hebron. I’m so glad I came, and I highly recommend it!

My visit to Hebron, Palestine, was a great experience. We started every day with a nice breakfast, and Mondays were usually spent on day trips, like visiting refugee camps. On other days, we met with different groups, such as journalists, youth organizations, and people from the old town. In the afternoons, we had discussions, including English talks, which helped us learn more about the area. Hebron is a special place because it's safe and has a lot of history and culture. The old town is full of interesting sights, and the settlements nearby add a different side to the city. The people here are very friendly and welcoming, making it a great place to connect with others. I definitely recommend visiting Palestine. It’s a country with rich culture, history, and great food, and the people are some of the friendliest I’ve ever met. Be sure to visit the Go Palestine Center to learn more about the region and meet interesting people. On weekends, you can explore other towns in the West Bank, each with something unique to offer.

My time in the Palestinian West Bank was a wonderfully rewarding experience. The hospitality shown by the people and the volunteer organisation was wonderful, and the cultural immersion was beyond easy as the locals are just as curious about you as you are of them.

I traveled from the Netherlands to volunteer in Palestine, teaching the English to university students, and it has been one of the most enriching experiences of my life. Over the course of a week, I was deeply immersed in Palestinian culture, interacting with the people and gaining insights into their way of life. I was particularly struck by their incredible hospitality and friendliness, which left a lasting impression on me. During my time, I visited Hebron University and a refugee camp, witnessing firsthand the impact of the Israeli occupation. It was both a heartbreaking and eye-opening experience, helping me better understand the daily challenges faced by Palestinians. Despite this, I always felt safe. The Palestinian Center ensured my safety was a top priority. While I personally didn’t feel the fear that many Palestinians experience due to soldiers and checkpoints, seeing their struggles has deepened my empathy and awareness. I strongly encourage anyone interested in cultural exchange, teaching English, or sharing their skills to consider volunteering with Go Palestine. It’s an unforgettable opportunity to experience the warmth, resilience, and generosity of the Palestinian people. Come to Palestine – you won’t regret it!

The Palestinian Center - Go Palestine responded to this reviewNovember 22, 2024

Thank you for sharing your experience! It’s great to hear how you connected with the people and culture. Your recommendation is inspiring, and we’re glad you felt safe and supported!

My daily schedule was filled with memorable activities and learning opportunities. I would start each day with breakfast, enjoying traditional Palestinian food at the dormitory. Walking to the center, I'd often chat with locals, adding a personal touch to my mornings. My main activities included teaching conversational English and learning Arabic. The Arabic lessons were particularly enriching. I learned greetings, introductions, days of the week, and basic vocabulary, which gave me a solid foundation to continue learning. We also went on trips to places like Bethlehem, where I visited a refugee camp, an experience that was truly eye opening. It’s a long trip but absolutely worth it. The experience is both rewarding and educational, but it’s essential to stay flexible and open minded. Traveling to the Middle East can be a cultural shift for many, but if you use common sense, listen to the staff at Go Palestine, and engage with the locals, you’ll have an incredible, safe, and transformative journey.

The Palestinian Center - Go Palestine responded to this reviewNovember 22, 2024

Thx for sharing your experience! It’s great to hear how enriching and transformative your time in Palestine was, and how much you learned both in and outside the classroom.

After spending the previous year in Lebanon studying Arabic, I was eager to continue improving my Levantine dialect. Naturally, Palestine felt like the perfect next step. Don’t let the occupation discourage you, Hebron is one of the most captivating cities in the West Bank. I enjoyed exploring both sides of the city, one under Israeli control and the other governed by the Palestinian Authority. The diversity of activists and humanitarian organizations working on the ground was fascinating to witness. The center became my anchor during my stay, offering a sense of routine and comfort. Sharing breakfast with the same group of people each morning helped me feel more settled in a new place where I didn’t know anyone. I joined several tours and meetings organized by the center, including visits to Shuhada Street, which remains famously shut down, the last Keffiyeh factory in the West Bank, various glass and pottery factories, and insightful discussions with professors, lawyers, and journalists. Guided tours of Hebron’s Old City are a must, and the center is always happy to arrange one for you. My experience was quite unique since I documented the center’s activities through photography and video. I also taught English and contributed to their website. The center is flexible and open to adapting your role, so even if you sign up for one program, you can explore other opportunities by simply talking to the staff. Palestinians are known for their incredible hospitality, so don’t be surprised if you’re invited in for coffee or even a full meal. Accepting these invitations can offer a break from shawarma and falafel, although both are absolutely worth trying! Throughout my time in Hebron, I always felt safe. Locals were friendly and excited to meet foreigners, and I found they respected personal boundaries. However, I acknowledge that as a man, my experience may differ from that of women, who face different forms of harassment. It’s wise to take basic safety precautions, such as traveling with a companion at night, but overall, Hebron isn’t a dangerous city. In fact, I highly recommend visiting. There’s always something to do, but I think it’s important to stay proactive meet people and stay engaged. The center here offers great support and helps provide a sense of structure to your experience.

The Palestinian Center - Go Palestine responded to this reviewNovember 22, 2024

Thank you Daniel for sharing your experience!

My name is Gina and I participated in the teaching English program. I stayed for over 2 months with a host family who were incredibly welcoming and made me feel at ease being a new place. At the centre I had Arabic lessons which really helped me to be able to communicate in the city and beyond, by the end of my stay I definitely had an understanding of the basics. I taught intermediate English to a group of young students over the summer and I think this was my favourite experience, I learnt a lot about Palestine through them. The Excellence Centre also organised many visits to areas of Palestine I wouldn’t have seen if travelling on my own. We had opportunities to meet many different types of people and listen to their stories. The tours around the old town of Hebron and surrounding areas were really interesting and I really value the shared experiences I had. It was wonderful to meet so many people from all over the world within the centre, there really was a varied group of volunteers, so a real cultural exchange. I made friends and we managed to travel around the country to Bethlehem, Ramallah, Nablus, Jericho and Jenin. The people of Palestine are incredibly kind and welcoming and there is a real sense of community here. I am sad to be leaving and would love to return soon so I can see the friends I made here. Thankyou to the Excellence Centre for giving me an experience to remember for a lifetime.