What are the problems involved in travelling during Ramadan?
First let me correct a general misconception. Because “fasting” in Christianity usually denotes mourning, people tend to suppose the same thing with Ramadan. This is not at all the case. For Moslems, “fasting” ie refraining from eating and drinking (and smoking!) between sunrise and sunset is something that they do voluntarily “for God”. They are pleased to do it, and if they give up after a few days, then there is (in theory) no shame for them. If they “succeed” they are happy, and sharing an endeavour always brings people together. Ramadan is therefore usually a happy time; this is the time when their social life is at its busiest, when they invite friends and relatives for “iftar” (“breakfast”), and when they are most likely to frequent restaurants in the evenings. This is when they spend a lot of money, for food and clothes, as well as giving generously to the poor. You can compare it to Christmas, with a run-up lasting for four weeks. However, for tourists, yes there are a few thi
