The Golan Heights

I’m writing about the time I went to the Golan Heights, in Israel. This territory is hotly contested between Israel and Syria, and it used to be a warzone. The Heights are still on the news all the time, as a centerpiece of the Israeli-Arab conflict that has been going on for generations. The reason this place is so valuable is because it can look down into both Israel and Syria, and could be the deciding factor in any future war. I visited the Golan Heights, and I will try to convince you to visit them as well.

The Golan Heights, Israel

Before Going: 5/10

Reason for score: I didn’t think it was worth sacrificing good time that could have been used in Jerusalem or somewhere else.

Why you should go:

There are three reasons why one would consider going to the Golan Heights; to see the place that has been on the news so often, take in the amazing views over Israel and the Sea of Galilee, and to understand the Arab-Israeli wars. First, the Golan Heights, and Syrian pressure to return them, have been on the news for a long time. I liked standing in the place that had been at the center of so much controversy. Second, the Golan really does provide amazing views over Israel. I particularly enjoyed the view of the Sea of Galilee, from a former Syrian bunker on the grounds of Kibbutz Kfar Haruv. Third, I like the Golan Heights because they gave me a better understanding of the Israeli-Arab conflict. Unless you look down into Syria, or sit in one of the bunkers, or see the minefields, you really can’t say you understand the conflict. Don’t pass judgment on one side or the other until you have stood in the Golan Heights.

How:

There is really no way you can come here on your own (unless you’re related to an Israeli), so I suggest going with a tour. The only way do this is to schedule a trip with a tour provider that will take you into the Heights. I know that Isram World will take you, but you should check to make sure your tour does to.

After Going: 8/10

Reason for Score: It gave me a better understanding of the place that had been on the news so often

A terrain model of the Golan Heights, with the Sea of Galilee

The U.N.D.O.F., or U.N. Disengagemant Observer Force zone, to keep peace between Israel and Syria

A former Israeli bunker

Someone forgot their tank

I think this picture speaks for itself

Looking out over the crystal clear Sea of Galilee

Just hanging out in a Syrian bunker

Looking down into Israel