What do you think if traveling to Africa during Ramadan? In the Muslim calendar, Ramadan refers to the 9th month. During the day, every Muslim is expected to fast for the entire lunar month. In Islam religion, says “Muslims all over the world during the blessed month of Ramadan, abstain from drink, food and other physical needs during the daylight hours. As a time to purify the soul, Ramadan is much more than just not eating and drinking, it means refocus attention on God, and practice self-sacrifice.”
In this year 2008, Ramadan is due to start on September 1st. From sun up to sundown, muslims throughout Africa will begin their month long fast. If you’re traveling to Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, Zanzibar, Senegal, Gambia, Mali, and other predominantly Muslim regions/countries you should be aware that by local people Ramadan is strictly adhered and you should be respectful of this.
For over half the population, Muslims account in as many as 28 African countries, including Ethiopia and Nigeria which given the predominance of churches everywhere as a Christian country you would traditionally think of it. Islam is the fastest growing religion in Africa and also account for about a third of all Muslims world wide.
The affect of Ramadan to Africa’s Tourism
Even if the country they are visiting is predominantly Islamic, non-Muslim tourists are not expected to fast. But, during Ramadan life in many Islamic countries changes quite significantly, which has both its pros and cons. In general, Muslims are tolerant of tourists drinking and snacking during Ramadan, but be respectful of the fast and keep public consumption to a minimum especially in non-touristy areas. To dress a little conservatively in Muslim countries, it is always a good idea and this is especially so during Ramadan.
Usually, during the first week of Ramadan tempers do flare up more than usual especially among those who are sorely missing their cigarettes and tea during the day. But the routine of fasting sets in after the first week and things are calm again. Some people also say that Ramadan offers an excuse for those who are naturally bad tempered anyway, to let off steam. You may find your hotel staff and guides a little bit sleepy, that’s because they’ll have been up since 4am enjoying a large meal to carry them through until sunset.
Museums, Banks and Government Offices
Although they will often close earlier than usual, tourist sights like museums are all open, to allow staff to get home and eat in time to break the fast. Public holidays to celebrate the end of Ramadan (Eid al-Fitr) can close government offices and businesses for up to 3 days.
Public Transport
Trains, planes and buses stick to a regular schedule during Ramadan and you can be exempt from fasting for that day, officially if you’re a Muslim and traveling. However, no food or drink was available at all on Moroccan trains during Ramadan and every Moroccan didn’t break their fast while traveling.
Eid al-Fitr, The end of Ramadan is celebrated for several days and since everyone is traveling to be together with their families, you will have to book your own travel far in advance. The exact dates of Eid al-Fitr depends on the first sighting of the new moon but there’s always a rough estimate of the date so you can still plan accordingly.
Bazaars, Restaurants and Snack Stalls
Restaurants catering throughout the day during Ramadan are often shut to locals, but after sundown until very late at night, they come alive and stay open. During the day you can still buy food and water as most little groceries will be open and food markets continue to buzz. From about 4.30pm onwards, you’ll see a huge rush of activity as people buy last minute items to break the fast; pastries and sweets are especially popular.
You will miss out throughout the day on watching the locals enjoy their tea in cafes, but since they cater to tourists for the most part, rooftop restaurants overlooking major squares will still be open. You should certainly plan on bringing your food and drink with you if you are visiting parts of town that few tourists frequent or some remote areas.
Before 5pm, shops and bazaars will all but shut down but in the evening usually re-open later and stay open late into the night. Near the end of Ramadan, everyone madly shops for gifts so it’s a bit like the week before Christmas in the Christian countries.
Bars during Ramadan
You’re out of luck during Ramadan if you like alcohol because for the whole month many liquor shops simply close down. Bars and hotel restaurants that cater to tourists may still serve alcohol during Ramadan, just keep it out of the public eye so you can still enjoy a cold beer at the end of a hot day.
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