I recently returned from a journey to Jerusalem , a land that has left an indelible mark on my heart. I took a break from writing to immerse myself in the country’s rich history, culture, and beauty.
My visit to the Bible City was a poignant experience, set against the backdrop of the ongoing conflict. The country’s tourism industry, a significant contributor to its economy, is feeling the strain.
The Israel-Hamas war has resulted in a substantial decline in tourist arrivals, with a staggering loss of billions of dollars in revenue.
My journey took me through the bustling streets of, the ancient city of Jerusalem, and the scenic Galilee region. Despite the stunning scenery and rich history, the impact of the war was evident. Empty hotel rooms, deserted tourist attractions, and a sense of unease among the locals all pointed to the devastating effects of the conflict on tourism.
I spoke to local business owners, tour guides, and hotel staff, all of whom shared stories of cancelled bookings, reduced tourist numbers, and financial struggles. The usually vibrant tourist areas were now quiet, with many shops and restaurants closed or operating at reduced capacity.
In fact as I contemplated my trip, I couldn’t help but wonder how God could allow harm to come to His own country. The question weighed heavily on my mind, even as I received cautionary words from loved ones.
“‘Be careful,’ they urged. ‘It’s not safe there.’ ‘Avoid certain areas.’ ‘Stay vigilant at all times.’ Their concerns were understandable, given the political tensions and conflicts in the region. But I felt a deep sense of peace and calling to visit this sacred land.
The security at the airport was a stark reminder of the tensions in the country. The rigorous checks, armed personnel, and bomb-sniffing dogs all pointed to a nation on high alert.
As I stepped out of the airport, I was greeted by a welcoming environment that seemed eager to share the beauty of Israel. The tension and security measures at the airport soon gave way to a sense of warmth and hospitality.
After checking into the Golden Crown Hotel in Nazareth, I indulged in the Israeli cuisine, which was both familiar and exciting. Every meal came with a variety of bread styles, from crusty challah to soft pita, and I savored each bite, enjoying the flavors and textures that seemed to dance on my palate.
I even treated myself to a traditional English breakfast, complete with eggs, bacon, and sausage, which was a lovely surprise in the heart of Nazareth.
After checking into the Golden Crown Hotel in Nazareth, I indulged in the delicious Israeli cuisine, breakfast was indeed exciting! The buffet spread was a delight, with familiar vegetables and beverages that felt like a taste of home. But what really caught my attention was the abundance of tomatoes – a luxury in Ghana, where they’re very expensive.
As I consumed the juicy tomatoes, I couldn’t help but think about the health benefits they provided. I had heard that tomatoes were good for the prostate, and I was determined to take advantage of this opportunity to stock up on a lifetime remedy in just one day. Ghanaman!
According to our tour guide, the day was packed with exciting activities, and I needed to fuel up for the adventure ahead. But the real treat was not the food itself, but the location where I was enjoying it.
As I gazed out the window, I reminded myself that I was having breakfast in the very city I had read about in the Bible – Nazareth. The same Nazareth where Jesus grew up, where the angel Gabriel appeared to Mary, and where the Holy Family lived. I couldn’t believe my eyes! I was so taken aback that I nearly exclaimed ‘Allah’ (God) in wonder!”
With a full heart and a satisfied appetite, we set off on day one of our journey. Our first stop was Mount Carmel, a site steeped in biblical history.
It was here that Elijah commanded fire to descend from heaven, a miraculous event that solidified his faith and conviction.
As we ascended the mountain, our guide recounted the story of Elijah’s showdown with the prophets of Baal.
The air was electric with tension as we imagined the scene unfolding before us. But as we explored the site, I couldn’t help but feel a pang of disappointment.
As a Ghanaian, I couldn’t help but compare the preservation and reverence of these ancient sites to the neglect and disrepair of our own rich cultural heritage and tourist sites back home.
While Israel has carefully preserved and honoured its history, Ghana’s historic sites and cultural artifacts have been left to decay, neglected by the government and the public alike.
It was a sobering reminder of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage for future generations.
To Be Continued ……..
