The people of Palestine live in a contested region at the heart of the Arab world, surrounded by Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, and Egypt. After the creation of Israel in 1948, and the exodus of most of the Arab population from the area of the Jewish state, their fortunes fluctuated dramatically, and today the vast majority of Palestinians live abroad, as refugees, as political exiles, or simply because they wanted a better life away from the hardship and complexities of life in their homeland. In 2012, however, Palestine gained the status of non-member state at the United Nations, with the prospect of full membership to follow. The nascent State of Palestine consists of two fragmented pieces of land between the Jordan River and the sea, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip--a small proportion of the area of historical Palestine--governed by the rival administrations of the Palestinian Authority and Hamas. Culture Smart! Palestine gives a fresh perspective on a people whose reputation has often been tarred with negative associations. Palestinians will surprise you when you meet them. There is a richness and variety in their culture, and their traditions are a source of delight for the visitor. Their warmth and hospitality are instantly sensed, and their friendship is long-lasting and sincere. The Palestinians are driven, optimistic, high achievers, and natural entrepreneurs. They prize education and have the highest literacy rate in the Arab world. Passionate and whole-hearted, they can be guided by their emotions and sometimes end up embracing contradictory positions. Their response to the frustrations, difficulties, and limited opportunities of their circumstances, however, is often creative, laced with humor, and fueled by the desire to create a better future. This book will guide you through the realities of Palestinian life, and is a new and original introduction to the attitudes, contradictions, hospitality, spirituality, and inner strength of the Palestinians.