Should I Travel to the West Bank?

Nestled in the Middle East between Israel and Jordan, the West Bank is a Palestinian Territory with a history mired in political strife and religious turbulence. It is controlled by both Palestinian and Israeli authorities, and both areas claim the region belongs to them. Officially, the West Bank isn’t a part of any country, and though it is currently under the Israeli administration, its future remains murky.

The West Bank is steeped in ancient biblical history with countless sites that sum up the area’s religious and archaeological significance. Nabulus, the site of Jacob’s well, is on the West Bank. Bethlehem and Jericho are both located here as well. It’s little wonder, then, that there would be a strong draw to travel to the West Bank. But should you?

Most governments around the world have posted warnings advising travelers to avoid the West Bank because of the tumultuous political situation and ongoing violence. Inter-factional tension, demonstrations and military operations targeting militants in cities and villages throughout the West Bank are common. Travel in the area requires driving through several Israeli military checkpoints, and violent outbreaks frequently happen in these areas.

Nonetheless, the West Bank beckons. There is certainly a sense of safety and security to consider when debating whether to make the trip to the West Bank. Those who have been there guarantee you’ll never watch the nightly news coming out of the Middle East in quite the same way again. That said, no one can make the decision for you about whether you should travel to the West Bank or not, but should you decide to venture into this area that truly is well off the beaten path, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Though there are certainly safety issues to consider, the West Bank is not off limits for travelers. In fact, some would argue that due to the rigid security measures, the area is surprisingly safe for travelers.

• Stay up-to-date on the travel advisories as posted by your country of residence. Government websites are routinely updated with advisories to reflect the latest security concerns. Make sure you understand what you’re getting into before arriving in the West Bank.

• Keep your paperwork with you. You will need to show your passport, verify your citizenship and complete a security check when arriving, and you may be asked to do the same at other checkpoints once in the area.

• A perceived Jewish person traveling by Palestinian transportation and an Arab person on Jewish transportation in the West Bank may attract suspicion. Dress and behave like a foreigner and you may be in the safest neutral position.

• Violence tends to be localized, so watch the news and check the situation before you travel within the West Bank.

• Travel during the day and avoid traveling at night if at all possible. Travel with another person if you are able.

• Register with the closest embassy, and let people know about your travel plans.

By JoAnna Haugen

Israel Middle East Bethlehem, biblical sites, Israel, Jericho, Nablus, west bank