When discussing travel with my fellow Calgarians, I am often surprised and dismayed by the number who are reluctant to visit muslim countries. As with any country there are safe ones to visit and those that would best be avoided, at least at this time. Doing your research is essential to any trip and there are some good sites dedicated to helping you chose your next destination.
There are countries that are very strict in their interpretation of Islam and those that are more of the Islam Lite variety. Saudi Arabia and Iran would probably be considered among the most severe in their interpretation while Indonesia and Egyptare more tolerant. The important idea to keep in mind is that you are travelling to experience another country and culture, not to impose your culture no matter how superior you believe it to be.
The behavior of some American Evangelicals at the entrance to the pyramids in Egypt illustrates my point. Theyovertook myCaucasian friend who was wearing a hijab.In his best Gomer Pyle voice theAmerican gentlemanasked " R Ewe a A Rab?" He and his wife were completely distressed when she answered "No". Undeterred he replied "Why I thought only A Rabs were Muzzlems" They began digging out Christian pamphlets and appeared ready to do an emergency baptism where we stood.They were so weighted down with religious material that we were able to escape their clutches. Not only is it rude to question people's beliefs in this way but proselytizing is illegal in many countries.
I enjoy travel in muslim countries for a number of reasons. First they are not usually overun with tourists. Second is that there is usually no drinking of alcohol, although it may be attainable at hotels.While scarcity of alcohol may not seem like a plus, it is a significant factor in reducing criminal activity with locals and other tourists. If you are a woman dressed modestly, muslim men are unlikely to hassel you.This makes a nice change from the frenzied groping, grabbing and catcalls that are business as usual in some countries. Third and most important is that Islamic countries have fantastic mosques, Islamic art, markets and so much more. I have always found muslim people to be friendly and accomodating which is a key factor in the enjoyment of any trip.
I learned the hard way not to discuss politics inmost countries. My harmless prattle about the overthrow of the government in Indonesia was met with stony silence by my Indonesian peers. It can be dangerous for locals to make disparaging remarks about politics and religion. We are blessed to live in a country that allows us the freedom to express our views. Calgarians are wealthier, healthier and luckier than most of the world's people. Many ofwhom you meet in your travels will never be able to afford to leave their own city much less travel out of country.
Research the muslim country of your choice, get a good dictionary so that you can attempt to converse with the locals, and get ready to be amazed at the beauty of the art and architecture. The important to budget travel is to plan in advance. When it comes along to family trips, globetrotting, well-deserved holidays and/or going to see new places we have never been before, the actuality of cost and budgeting is generally in the back of our thoughts. Planning and spending our travel budget carefully is a consideration for most families. Lowering spending and charges, while still enjoying your vacation to its fullest, is the key to assured accomplishment and fiscal liability. Your pocketbook and family will thank you! The reasoning regarding protecting money while traveling is simple: Even if your personal funds is incredibly limited, you can still take a break and enjoy life! Simply put, life is just too short to never step out of the door or leaving the homestead! Also thinking about that while traveling, no matter whether on a resources or not, even the smallest of things can all add op to a large vacation or travel expenses!. For a glimpse of muslim architecture and hospitality here in Calgary visit the Ahmadiyya Mosque.http://www.baitunnur.org/ Call ahead to plan a tour.
Safe Travel Site:http://www.voyage.gc.ca/countries_pays/menu-eng.asp
Research: http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinations.
http://www.dorlingkindersley-uk.co.uk/static/cs/.../travel/index.html
Mind Your Manners
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