Due in part to the increasing popularity of craft beer around the world, Palestine now boasts not one, but TWO breweries, both producing excellent beer that goes down very well in the warm summer months. It is essential that you try the beer, and it is highly recommended that you visit one of the breweries.
The more established of the two breweries, Taybeh Brewery, is located in a small Christian village (Taybeh), about 30 minutes from Ramallah by Taxi. Taybeh produces four different flavours, all excellent, and lays claim to employing the only female beer brewer in the Middle East! They do tours and tastings and it is a nice way to spend an afternoon. Taybe also hosts an annual party in honour of October Fest.
The newest arrival on the Palestinian market is Birzeit Brewery, which is a 15 minute drive from Ramallah. Their beer is equally excellent and the locals definitely welcomed the addition of "Shepherds Beer" to the market in mid 2015. Birzeit Brewery also runs tours of their facilities.
Why: because it's tasty!
When: all year round but especially from April - September
How: Take a taxi to either Taybeh or Birzeit and ask the driver to take you to the brewery
