A backpack, camera, tent, bicycle and social media platforms are all the equipment Abd al-Rahim al-Zraiee needs to reveal hidden gems in Gaza that even local residents might not know. The young Palestinian is known on social media as the Gaza Tourist. Through his travels — which are posted to Facebook, Instagram and Twitter — Zraiee documents the territory’s history and seeks out its beauty.

Zraaie set out on his first tour about a year ago, exploring his own hometown, Deir al-Balah, a historical city in central Gaza. “What motivated me to start this initiative is my wanderlust and passion for discovering new places, meeting new people and understanding different cultures, traditions and rituals,” Zraaie told Al-Monitor. “I started traveling around Gaza and documenting my tours through photos and short comments. I focused on dusting off our archaeological sites and presenting Gaza’s beauty, which still remains despite the wars and crises it has experienced.”

Zraaie said he also wanted to learn more about Palestinian heritage, from archaeological sites to history to local traditions. “I wanted to show the world the sublime beauty and history of Gaza,” he said. He therefore created the Facebook page Gaza Tourist. With time, and a few trips, it has become a gallery of photographs, videos and stories.

The young documentarian has visited more than 80 locations in Gaza. “Unfortunately, a lack of equipment prevented me from taking many pictures,” he said, referring to when he first set out on his tours. He explained that he does not follow a set protocol or try to predetermine a route in deciding on his next destination. He either hikes or bikes from one city to the next, where he meets residents and learns about their lifestyles and local culture.