I am Joe Jayyab, I was born in Gaza and have lived here until now. Since childhood, I have been told that dreams in this city do not come true. Since childhood, I was convinced that I was in a big prison that I could not get out of and that it was impossible to visit the other side of the country because Gaza was besieged.

Yes, I began to understand the painful reality, but Glory be to Him who inspired my soul and spirit to achieve my dreams, to be a person carrying a message and a goal.

After years of planning, working, and volunteering with international organizations, I was able to obtain a permit to enter the occupied territories.

My dream began to come true. Yes, my Mother, and yes, World - I was able to break out of the barrier besieging Gaza, to leave it and see the country of my ancestors. I began my career in creating content, conveying another image of our country, Palestine. Showing its beauty, history, food, and nature. Through my videos, I tried to convey the feeling of a Gazian, who was literally deprived of seeing his country.

My last trip was on 8/22/2023; I swear I will never forget all these memories:

I will never forget Ramallah and the kindness of its people.

I will never forget Bethlehem and the holiness of its places.

I will never forget Hebron and the generosity of its people.

I will never forget Jerusalem and the view of the Dome of Rock.

I will never forget Nablus, its kunafa, and its Old City.

I will not forget Jaffa and its incredible development.

I will never forget Haifa and the magic of its beauty.

I will never forget Akka and jumping from its historic wall.

I did not forget about Ras an-Nakura.

I will never forget the Golan Heights and its nature.

I do not forget Al-Naqab and the desert world.

I will never forget my beloved Gaza, who only had God for help.

I experienced all the sufferings of a Palestinian.

Difficulty of movement and the checkpoints in the West Bank. 

War, and the psychological and mental battle within the occupied territories.

Of course, the suffering of my family and my city, Gaza, and the violent aggression it is currently facing.

I wished to live as the world lives, in calmness and safety.

But I was forced to live in a painful environment.

Praise be to God, who promised me to visit my country and pray in Al-Aqsa before leaving this world.

I swear, I have seen nothing but goodness from my people in the ’48 lands, the West Bank, and Jerusalem. It was as if I came down to them from heaven. Beyond generous. Saying thank you, is not enough.

If God prolongs my life, you will see the details of this journey. You will see tears for days. Our country is paradise. Its smell is different. Its food is different. Its air is different. Life is different. Yes, I am Joe, the youngest traveler in Palestine. From a traveler wandering the country with his suitcase to a traveler searching for safety in Gaza. Take care of the country, and continue sharing its beauty, because our country is the most beautiful country. 

Is it possible that we will have another meeting?