Bethlehem video tour with David Hyman.

When I heard of this opportunity to visit Bethlehem, I did not hesitate for one second, and I think I was the first to enroll. Bethlehem was handed over to be self-governed by the Palestinian Authority after the Oslo Accords in 1994 and since then it is extremely difficult for Israelis to visit this amazing town. A bus full of Israeli tour guides was granted all the permits for a day tour of Bethlehem highlights. Our tour will take us through the narrow streets of the city, we will visit the site of King David's wells ( 2 Samuel 23) and we will explore the Nativity Museum with a display of 200 nativity scenes from all over the world. But without a doubt, the main site for all of us was our visit to the basilica of the nativity. As Israeli guides, we often send our groups to visit this church and they return with so many stories and experiences. The 10-year restoration project was just completed last year so we had the privilege of seeing all the wonderful mosaics and columns, the art, and the icons in their splendid colors. On top of that, we were the only groups in the church, so can you imagine having the place to ourselves? absolutely amazing.
I think my most moving moment was in the nativity cave, where I had all the time I needed to touch the 14 point silver star, and read the Latin inscription that says that this is the place where virgin mary gave birth to Jesus Christ. I was thinking of the millions and millions of followers who touched the silver star and of the many millions who have not had the chance to do so yet. During the entire day in Bethlehem, I felt safe and welcome by our neighbors the Palestinians. I felt that we both had the same prayers and hopes, that this pandemic will end soon and that we can once again host all our guests and visitors in our wonderful Holyland.


My Instagram -   / dtalesisrael  
My website - https://davidhymanisrael.com/
Recorded by David Hyman with GoPro 9 Hero Black
Edited by David Hyman with Apple Imovie Mini Ipad

Music tracks for this video:
Spruce Tree - Ashley Shadow
Carol of the Bells - Quincas Moreira 2
Sahara Rains - Hanu Dixit
Procession - Geographer

Thanks to all my wonderful colleagues, Israeli tour guides who agreed to participate in this video. Thank you all the great Bethlehem people for your extreme generosity and a warm welcome to your city.
Special thanks to Yuliya and to Yinon for making all the arrangements for us to visit Bethlehem safely
Extra special thanks to our wonderful Palestinian guide Khaled.