Travel in Ramadan
The muslim holy month of Ramadan is starting around the world. This annual month of fasting between sunrise and sunset is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and it’s dates are based around the sightings of the crescent moon.
If you are travelling in Muslim countries it will throw up a number of factors that you should be aware of. While levels of observance vary across the world, and many places are mindful that they are welcoming visitors of other faiths, you should be sensitive to this holy period and avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public. In some countries you will find that restaurants may reduce their opening hours and/or serve behind screens or from temporary tented areas. What they do all have in common is the sunset breaking of the fast, Iftar, which while it varies in content is a genuinely happy occasion and being asked to join in is an honour.
There may well be some restrictions on travelling so it is well worth speaking to an expert, such as Putney Travel, to get specific advice. In many places however the evening feasts, celebrations and markets can make it a fantastic time to see a country and its culture so do not automatically be put off. Over the years I have spent time in Kashmir, Tunisia, Dubai and Turkey during Ramadan and in every instance it has been a fascinating experience.
Ramadan in 2013 is expected to run from 9th/10th July to 7th/8th of August. In 2014 Ramadan will be from the end of June to the end of July.
Ramadan Mubarak
by TMS