Day 3: Coastal Escapades
Campers eagerly gathered on campus at 6 AM, brimming with excitement for the adventure ahead. With breakfast and snacks packed for the long journey, we embarked towards the Qalandia checkpoint, anticipating a smooth passage. However, the Israeli soldiers posed a challenge for one of the campers, subjecting them to unnecessary difficulties. Thankfully, we persevered and successfully made it through the checkpoint.
Despite this early setback, our spirits remained high as we continued on our planned route. Upon reaching Akka, our progress was unexpectedly impeded by a traffic jam caused by an accident. Undeterred, the resilient and gracious campers decided to forgo a seated lunch, opting instead for delectable shawarma sandwiches. This allowed us to save time and savor our experience in Akka.
Stepping off the bus, we proceeded through the ancient city gate, venturing towards the old port. A boat awaited us, ready to embark on a brief cruise offering picturesque views of the city from the sea. Some adventurous campers even took the opportunity to ride speed boats, adding an extra dash of excitement to their day. Subsequently, the campers were granted several hours of free time to explore the old city and indulge in a refreshing swim at the beach.
Our journey continued as we departed for Haifa. Ascending Mount Carmel aboard the buses, we marveled at the magnificent Baha'i Gardens, treated to a breathtaking panorama of Haifa. With some free time at our disposal, the campers leisurely strolled through the gardens and the nearby park, relishing the tranquility and beauty of the surroundings.
Afterward, we descended from the mountaintop, making our way to the Arab Orthodox Church of Haifa. There, we secured the rental of their hall for an enlightening lecture by Tarek Baker titled "كنا و ما زلنا" or "We Were and Still Are." Tarek, a dedicated researcher and anthropologist, passionately presented his work, visually documenting the personal narratives and stories of Palestinians displaced in 1948 through his initiative "We Were and Still Are" كنا و ما زلنا.
During Tarek's engaging talk, one of our campers, Leila Nuri, received a text message from her father revealing that her grandfather's home in Haifa was coincidentally situated a mere three blocks away from our current location. Intrigued, Leila accompanied by a counselor, embarked on a brief excursion to the house, capturing a poignant photograph as a cherished memento.
As the day drew to a close, we savored a delightful pizza dinner, rejuvenating ourselves before the journey back to Ramallah. The memories and experiences accumulated throughout the day would forever remain etched in our hearts, reminding us of the resilience, unity, and shared heritage that bound us together on this remarkable adventure.
