A tale of three borders
Lebanon, Syria, Jordan: three borders, three histories, one day. The geopolitics of Israel’s north, up close.
The shape of the day
Today we’ll explore the contemporary geopolitics in the region and visit the borders of three of Israel’s neighbours. At each border we’ll understand the history of the division: how the border has moved over time, and the contemporary relations between Israel and the neighbouring country.
We’ll begin our day at the Lebanese border, next to a kibbutz in the north of Israel, discussing the Sykes-Picot agreement made between Britain and France during World War I, and its impact on the region. We’ll learn about the tense relationship between Israel and Lebanon and the influence of Hizbullah.
From here we’ll head up into the Golan Heights to visit the Syrian border in the Druze town of Majdal Shams. We’ll talk about the Druze people and their relationship with Israel; the difference between the Druze in the Galilee and the Druze in the Golan; and the contemporary issues around Syria.
From here we’ll head down to the Jordanian border. We’ll discuss the relationship between Israel and Jordan which eventually led to a peace treaty, and why, despite this, the final borders between the countries remain unresolved.
Sites we visit
- The Lebanese border
- The Golan Heights
- Majdal Shams (Druze town & Syrian border)
- The Jordanian border
Who it’s for
This day is for anyone who wants to understand Israel’s borders beyond the headlines: journalists, students, professionals and curious travellers who’d rather see the ground than read about it.
My job is to lay out the history and the competing perspectives fairly and let you make up your own mind. I recognise that I cannot be completely impartial, but what I commit to is the effort, giving you the viewpoints of all sides rather than pushing one. I build the focus around what you most want to dig into.
FAQ
Is it safe to visit the borders?
I monitor the security situation continuously, adjusting the route if anything looks unwise. During tenser periods some spots close, and I’ll always be straight with you in advance about what is and isn’t sensible.
Your safety (and also mine!) is the top priority here.
How much of the day is driving?
This is mostly a driving day with short walks at each viewpoint, and good conversation in between. If you’d like to mix things up a bit with a short hike, that’s also an option.
Is it politically balanced?
That’s the heart of how I guide this day. I recognise that I cannot be completely impartial (I don’t think anyone can), but I commit to doing my best to give you the perspectives of all the parties without pushing an agenda, and I’m happy to be challenged.
Past guests, including journalists and diplomats, have valued exactly that even-handedness.
Does it go well with the rest of a northern trip?
Very well. We can pair it with more time exploring the area’s rich Christian and Jewish heritage, so you experience the region’s deep history alongside its present-day reality.
Make this itinerary yours
Tell me who’s travelling, your dates and where you want to focus. I’ll put together a personalised proposal.
For urgent bookings, send me a WhatsApp
If you are going to Israel, you would be mad not to give him a call.
Amol Rajan, BBC presenter and broadcaster
Having been on trips in Israel with seven different tour guides, Samuel stood above all the rest.
Seasoned Israel traveller
Samuel is one part walking encyclopedia, one part storyteller, one part stand-up comedian.
Berkeley Haas Business School student