Travel
during Ramadan in Asia is actually enjoyable, interesting, and different. No,
you probably won't go hungry! Read on to learn how Ramadan travel may affect
your trip in Asia.
What is Ramadan?
Ramadan
is the Islamic holy month when all capable Muslims are expected to refrain from
eating, drinking, and smoking until sundown. Ramadan lasts for 29 to 30 days,
depending on the sighting of the new moon.
Although energy levels during the day may be
low, Ramadan is actually a festive time with night bizarres, family gatherings,
and special foods. Rather than avoiding travel during Ramadan, take advantage
of being on the road during a special time.
What to Expect During Ramadan Travel
Depending on where you are
traveling, you may not even notice that Ramadan is in progress! Travelers in
countries such as Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei, and other countries home to
large Muslim populations will be affected the most. Bali in Indonesia is
predominantly Hindu and is barely affected by Ramadan.
Many Muslims travel home to
be with their families during Ramadan; some shops and restaurants may be
closed until sundown. Long-haul transportation may run on an erratic or
modified schedule. Accommodation is rarely affected, and Chinese eateries are
always open for a daytime meal.
As the sun lowers, large
groups of Muslims meet to break the day's fast with a festive meal known as iftar.
Special desserts, performances, and public gatherings can be enjoyed by both
travelers and locals. Discounted prices on gifts and souvenirs can be found in
Ramadan bizarre.
Will I Go Hungry During Ramadan?
Non-Muslims
are not expected to fast, however, many shops, street carts, and restaurants
may be closed throughout the day. In places such as Singapore, Kuala Lumpur,
and Penang where a large Chinese population exists, food is never hard to
find.
Finding
breakfast or lunch in remote villages may be a different story; fruit and
instant noodles can go a long way when in a pinch.
How to Behave During Ramadan Travel
Ramadan
is more than just fasting. Muslims are expected to purify their thoughts, and
focus more on their religion. Travelers who do not cover up after leaving the
beach or wear slinky outfits will not make life any easier on locals.
Make
an extra effort to be considerate of others while traveling during Ramadan.
- Avoid eating, drinking, and smoking on the street in public during the daytime.
- Cover your shoulders and legs whenever possible.
- Never photograph people during prayers or performing their ablutions before prayer.
- Mosques -- normally open to visitors -- may be closed to the public during Ramadan.
- Be patient; you wouldn't move too quickly either without food or water in Southeast Asia's heat.
When is Ramadan?
The dates for Ramadan are
based on the Islamic lunar calendar and depend on the traditional sighting of
the crescent moon by eye. Predicting the dates for Ramadan is impossible in
advance; sometimes the dates even vary between Islamic countries.
Ramadan in 2013 is expected
to begin on or around July 8th, and will continue until August 7th.
