Crossing the Separation Wall: Jerusalem to West Bank Cities (1) 🇮🇱🇵

I traveled from Jerusalem to two West Bank cities—Bethlehem and Ramallah (the administrative capital of Palestine). Bethlehem attracts more tourists, so you can find minibuses or tour groups easily. Ramallah has fewer tourists but offers more nightlife—bars, concerts, and shopping malls—making it worth staying overnight. 1. Jerusalem ⇄ Bethlehem 🚌 You can take a public bus from the Damascus Gate bus station (Route 231)—check Google Maps for the latest route/schedule (though timing may not always be accurate, the start/end points are reliable). The bus is comfortable, with soft seats and charging ports. 🚧 Border Crossing Notes: You cannot walk across the separation wall—only vehicles (bus or taxi). To enter Area A (Palestinian-administered zones), you must take an Arab-driven Israeli taxi (white). No checkpoint when leaving Jerusalem (Pic 4), but on the way back, the bus stops at a checkpoint where everyone must show passports/work permits before reboarding. 📍 Bethlehem Highlights: Church of the Nativity & Manger Square (festive atmosphere, though fewer tourists due to the war). The Walled Off Hotel (next to the separation wall)—an amazing museum on Israeli-Palestinian history + quirky art collections. Aida Refugee Camp (Pic 2) with a UNRWA building and souvenir shops. 🚕 Getting Around Bethlehem: Many taxis wait at the bus stop (Pic 3), but they might overcharge. I hired a local guide—recommended if you want deeper insights. 🔙 Returning to Jerusalem: Same bus from where you got off (Pic 3). The route might differ from Google Maps, but it always goes back to Jerusalem. The trip takes 15-20 mins after the checkpoint, ending at Damascus Gate. (Continued in the next note for Ramallah!) #Jerusalem #Bethlehem #ChurchOfTheNativity #Palestine #Israel ✝️🕊️