Ramadan kareem! Stories of devotion from around the world
I’ve spent five years living in the Middle East (based predominantly out of Cairo but also doing lengthy stints in Turkey and Morocco), and so non-Muslim travellers often ask me if Ramadan is a good time to visit the Islamic world. From my own experience, I can say with some...
Tips for travellers during Ramadan
Travelling to a Muslim destination during Ramadan and not sure what to expect? We’ve got you covered with all the basics you’ll need to know about the holy month. What is Ramadan? Ramadan is the holy month of the Islamic calendar, when all Muslims dedicate themselves to religious thoughts. It’s...
A Ramadan welcome in Eastern Turkey
Come in, come in! A young lady called us from her doorstep. I didn’t understand her language, but I could see her hands, pointing towards the gate, furling and unfurling with the international gesture for ‘Come in, join us, you’re welcome here.’ We had been warned not to linger outdoors...
A taste of Persian hospitality at Ramadan
I was so hungry, but I was determined to persevere. It was the first days of Ramadan and I was working in Iran for a few weeks. The timing didn’t seem ideal, but when a trip to Iran comes up, one does not refuse. At the time, I was a...
Ramadan celebrations in Kuala Lumpur
In honour of Ramadan, we asked our guides around the globe how they celebrate the holy month in their home. Here’s what Farah, our guide on the ground in Kuala Lumpur, told us about Ramadan in her city. The month of Ramadan (or Ramadhan) is a very testing period. You...
Iftar feasting in Dubai
Having spent over 10 years in Dubai, I can say I’m a veteran at navigating Ramadan. It’s unlike anything else. For one, there’s a festive vibe in the air — most offices offer shorter working hours (even for those who are non-Muslim and not fasting), many people are away over...