Fatin Hamizah has always dreamed of touring Europe after watching The Lizzie McGuire Movie. The 2003 teen comedy film tells the story of the titular character’s graduation trip to Rome in Italy.
Fatin got her chance when her family attended her younger brother’s graduation ceremony in Britain in 2014. As fate would have it, the trip also took place in the middle of Ramadan.
“Since it was only two weeks away from Hari Raya, we decided to celebrate in Britain that year. Within those two weeks, we travelled to Paris (France), and Milan, Rome, Florence, Venice, Pisa in Italy, as well as the Vatican City and several places around Britain. We travelled mostly by train and took some short flights,” says Fatin, who works at a multinational company.
Because they were fasting, travelling to different cities meant that the family had to be mindful of local times.
“When travelling to a different city, the time we get to break fast changes depending on what time sunset is,” she explains.
Fatin is grateful that she got to be with her family while travelling during Ramadan.
“Travelling with my family during Ramadan made some routines easier. I enjoyed breaking fast together and spending our nights with terawih prayers at the hotel.
“One thing I loved about celebrating Ramadan in Europe was the change of scenery. Fortunately, I got to do this with my family. For me, one of the most important parts of celebrating Ramadan is having Iftar together with the family,” she says.
Travelling during the holy month also gave Fatin the time to do some self reflection.
“Ramadan marks the revelation of the Quran and we are encouraged to seek knowledge, reflect and ponder upon it. When I’m on a long-haul train trip, I’ll try to read the Quran or its translation,” she says.
According to Fatin, travelling during Ramadan also comes with its set of challenges.
“Besides being away in a foreign country, my biggest challenge is adaptation. I have to adapt to the different time zones of different cities. I personally overcome this challenge by keeping a flexible schedule on some days and keeping a positive mindset,” she explains.
An avid traveller, Fatin also keeps a blog called Fatin Days (fatindays.com) where she documents her adventures as a Muslim traveller. She says a number of Muslim-friendly apps have been useful during her travels.
“Back then, Muslim Pro is one of the best apps to keep track on prayer times and can show the Qibla direction, as well as some Quran apps. Nowadays, The Noor and Qalby apps have become increasingly popular for Islamic content and they are made in Malaysia,” Fatin shares.
As for her personal tips with Ramadan travels, Fatin says it takes a bit more planning to have a good trip.
“Travelling in Ramadan seems daunting to most, but really, it’s doable as long as you go prepared. A travel itinerary, a time-blocking schedule, packing your favourite snacks and food, drinking plenty of water during and after Iftar as well as at sahur all go a long way,” she adds.
A time blocking schedule, Fatin explains, is incredibly useful for Ramadan holidays.
“Basically, what it means is that you plan your day, hour by hour. Essentially, you’re creating a skeleton for your day. For example, your day in summer could be like this: You block off 8am to 2pm for exploring the city or museums that require your full attention.
“The time from 2pm to 6pm is reserved for prayer breaks, resting in the hotel and catching up on your midday naps. Between 6pm and 9pm, you’re back for leisure activities and breaking fast,” she says.If anything, timing is essential for Ramadan trips. For those who might be hesitant about travelling during the holy month, Fatin says to just go for it.
“Don’t worry, everything will be okay. However, it is best to avoid travelling in the summer during Ramadan when the days are longer (and fasting hours are extended),” she concludes.
Already a subscriber? Log in
Get 20% OFF The Star Digital Access
Cancel anytime. Ad-free. Unlimited access with perks.
