Morocco & Ramadan - Tips for traveling this year
Ramadan is coming to the end of August this year. Just what is it and what it has to do with Morocco? First of all, Ramadan is an important religious holiday for the Islamic faithful. It all began when the Prophet Muhammad received verses the angel Gabriel. This is important because these verses became the Koran. All this took place in the ninth month of the Muslim calendar. It is twelve days shorter than the calendar used in the Western countries, which makes the party starts earlier every year. This year it starts in September. Ramadan is celebrated worldwide by Muslims.
So what does this have to do with Morocco? Morocco is an Islamic country, and officially observing Ramadan. All adult Muslims must refrain from eating, drinking, smoking, and sexual activity from sunrise to sunset. What does all this mean for you, the tourist? Some activities may be somewhat reduced. But given the actual accession, tourists are not condemned to eat, drink or other private matters, as long as it is not done openly - eat in restaurants is OK eg.
Ramadan is a really good time to visit Morocco. September is by far one of the most perfect coming months. Some hotels reduce their rates, and in general, things are less crowded with tourists mess returning to work in their respected countries. Most restaurants are open, although some are closed during the month. You can find some restaurants closed during the day and open in time for the evening meal. Food and drink are available during the daylight hours, including alcoholic and other beverages. Most items are still available in tourist shops.
Souks and shops catering to local people will not have certain things available. Banks and other offices to change their hours and open later, usually around 10 hours shops and attractions are open, however. Some of these places will close in time for their employees to go home for dinner. Respect for the Moroccan people and their religion, they should not eat or drink in the streets while walking or seeing the sights. In stores and restaurants, it is suggested that one should try not to smoke. Transit will still be available, although the timing is somewhat reduced. Your Moroccan tour operator will be happy to provide you with all the information you need for your stay during Ramadan. If you want to visit Berber villages or hiking in the mountains, you can find the least enthusiastic guides during this time.
You may find adjust the pace of the local population a good way to discover the Moroccan culture. Dinner is usually eaten late, say around 11 percent. m. At sunset, however, the Ramadan fast is broken with a breakfast. Most Moroccans will get up very early to take their morning meal before the call to prayer in the morning, marking the start of the fasting day. Most local people stay in place all night and sleep late into the morning. Evenings seem to be festive as the locals go to venture after dark to buy the next day. Bakeries and have some special items just for the holiday of Ramadan. If you are not able to adapt to food in the night, the load on the snacks and foods to keep in your hotel room. In this way, you can still participate in the wonderful Moroccan cuisine while respecting local customs.
HM King Mohammed VI celebrated Ramadan as does the rest of the royal family. His Majesty and his brother, Prince Moulay Rachid, keep a Ramadan tradition started by their father to host conferences on various aspects of Islam. The guests are not always Muslims. Her Royal Highness Princess Lalla Meryem, send copies of the Koran to NGOs around the world. In addition, it provides preachers and Koran readers with religious conferences to share with those Muslims living in other countries.
Ramadan may seem intimidating for those who are not familiar with Islam. However, this should not stop you. If your dream vacation is to go to Morocco in September and you should, it's a great time to come. Your Moroccan tour operator organize what ever activity you want to take part, you get tickets and provide transportation. During this time of year, it is best to leave everything to the professionals ...
