Dreaming of buka puasa at a bustling Ramadan bazaar in Istanbul or experiencing Raya celebrations in UAE? Travelling during Ramadan and Hari Raya offers an opportunity for cultural exploration, self-reflection and connecting with loved ones. With the right planning and some Wise tips, you can make your holiday a smooth and meaningful getaway that’s easy on the wallet as well!
Timing is Everything
Travelling during Ramadan and Raya can be a memorable experience, but remember to:
- Plan early: With school holidays, Easter, Spring Break overlapping, flight and hotel prices can skyrocket! So book your flights and accommodation in advance for cheaper deals.
- Avoid the jams: Do be wary of jammed up balik kampung traffic – especially if you’re visiting other Muslim-majority countries. Be sure to consult traffic apps to avoid heavy traffic routes!
Tip: Book flights in the flight origin’s currency to save on hidden conversion fees.
Beat the Heat
If you and your family are looking for a cooling getaway to escape the heat and fatigue during the fasting month, try looking down south!
- Cooler Days, Comfortable Adventures: Enjoy Australia and New Zealand’s mild weather, perfect for exploring without the scorching heat!
- Shorter Days, Earlier Iftar: Fasting hours vary worldwide, with southern countries like Chile and New Zealand experiencing shorter 12-hour fasts, while northern countries like Iceland can face up to 17 hours. Make sure to check and plan your sahoor and iftar times ahead of your trip to keep things hassle-free!
Culinary Experiences
Ramandan is the time for indulging in mouth-watering feasts with loved ones. Travel and explore some of the local delicacies unique to the country:
- Indonesia: Explore the vibrant street food scene and unique dishes like kolak (a dessert soup made with coconut milk, palm sugar, and fruits) and various satays.
- Turkey: Enjoy traditional iftar dishes such as pide (a special bread), and sweets like baklava.
- Egypt and Morocco: Savor special dishes like tagine in Morocco or ful medames and various grilled meats in Egypt.
Tip: Pay for foreign transactions with a multi-currency card like Wise to avoid exchange rate markups and conversion fees. More savings = more budget for makan-makan!
Celebrating Faith Together
Ramadan and Raya is marked by amazing community gatherings and festivities:
- Night Markets and Bazaars: Countries like the UAE and Indonesia host vibrant night markets where you can experience local craft, cuisine, and entertainment.
- Mosques and Prayer Areas: Attending prayers in historically and architecturally significant mosques, such as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque in Turkey or the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in the UAE, can be exceptionally moving during this time.
- Community Spirit: Join local Raya open houses, where strangers can feel like family – especially with shared communal meals.
Tip: Use Muslim apps or Google Maps to easily locate prayer spaces.
Wellness Getaways for the Mindful Traveller
Need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city? Opt for wellness getaways to recharge and self-reflect:
- Reflect and Refresh: Pick destinations offering mindfulness retreats (halal-friendly ones, of course). Think peaceful countryside stays in Turkey, ocean-view paradise spots in Indonesia. These destinations offer the perfect backdrop for rest, reflection, and rejuvenation!
Extra Tips For a Smooth Getaway
- Watch for Closures: Some tourist spots in Muslim-majority countries may close or have shorter hours during Ramadan. Double-check schedules in advance.
- Stay Vigilant: If you’re travelling to big cities and busy markets, be wary of pickpockets or scams. Avoid carrying too much cash and stick to contactless payment methods.
Whether you’re chasing cooler temperatures (Malaysia panas giler), trying all the kuih, or experiencing Raya overseas, travelling during this spiritual season can be an unforgettable experience.
Make the most of this special season by planning thoughtfully, and embracing the journey with an open heart.
The article is courtesy of Wise.
Read also: AirAsiaGo.com Introduces Muslim-friendly Travel Options
