December 25

On the way to Bethlehem? A new travellers guide

While the Christmas lights are burning all around the world, thousands of people from all religions come to Bethlehem to see the birth place of Jesus. According to the Bible, 2000 years ago the saviour was born there to bring peace and light to the hearts of mankind. A new initiative from Palestine tries to show a new way in tourism for Bethlehem, which would allow more interactions with the local people and culture.

The Palestinian Initiative for Responsible Tourism (PIRT) is a network of organisations, associations and public bodies committed to advocate and work for responsible tourism in the Holy Land. The network is open and can be joined by individuals and local institutions, organisations, associations and companies who agree with the vision statement of the Initiative.
>> more on the Palestinian Initiative for Responsible Tourism (PIRT)

PIRT: A new Code of Conduct Responsible and just forms of tourism offer communities opportunities to share their cultures, tell their stories, request solidarity and foster tolerance and greater understanding. This is the principle that has shaped this Code of Conduct which has been developed to inform pilgrims and tourists of the reality of Palestine and Palestinians and to seek their support in using tourism to transform contemporary injustices. At the same time, the Code aims to raise awareness amongst Palestinian tourism stakeholders of how tourism in Palestine can be transformed and enhanced to truly benefit both hosts and visitors.
>> more on the PIRT Code of Conduct

Olive Picking Program
The Olive Picking Program is organized each fall in coordination with the Alternative Tourism Group (ATG). The olive picking season is short and often Palestinians are harassed or prevented from picking their olives by Israeli settlers or military forces. To prevent this, we invite internationals to come and pick olives with Palestinian farmers. The program lasts for a week and includes cultural evenings, lectures and presentations, as well as opportunities to visit religious sites.
>> more Information on the Olive Picking Program