The Fasting Month of Rahmadhan in Indonesia
There are several things that visitors need to be aware during the fasting month when traveling to Muslim countries such as Malaysia, Indonesia etc.
Ramadan, the fasting month, is an event of great importance to the Indonesian and the world’s Muslim community. Being one of the five pillars of Islam, observance of the fasting month is the priority in the devout Muslim’s life during this month. Fasting involves a change in the daily routine of the Muslim faithful and represents an expression of their deep belief in God.
Many Indonesians take Ramadan as a chance to test and develop their inner, spiritual selves. The fasting regimen is rigorous. No eating, drinking or smoking is allowed after the first prayer in the morning until the opening of the fast in the evening.
Prayer times change based on sunset and sunrise, so the exact time will be different every day. The morning prayer usually comes around 4.30 AM. Before this time, every Muslim family must rise and consume the last food or drink that they will have for the next fourteen hours.
The opening of the fast, or Buka Puasa, occurs around 6.00 PM in the evening. At this time, all fasting Muslims will break the fast by drinking, eating and attending prayers. Expect food outlets to be more busy than usual especially those that are serving Indonesian or local food as many families may not cook for this breaking fast period.
During this time, you may noticed that some restaurants may be closed or are opening discretely with curtains covering up windows of restaurants during the fasting time. This is a sign of respect for those who are fasting.
You can see an example of a picture taken at www.MedanKu.com where restaurants have prepared curtains to cover up the windows including fast food chains for Rahmadhan.
Other ways travelers should do as a sign of respect are
* Be discreet when consuming food. Do not to eat or drink in public places except for restaurants.
* Be observant and do not offer food or drink during the fasting hours to those who are fasting.
* Be respectful and do not showcase your own food or drinks in public places.
* Be empathetic and tolerant as you may find energy levels of those who are fasting to be low that may affect service levels and lower performance.
Medan maybe unknown to international travelers. It is the third largest city in Indonesia and is famous for having the largest crater volcanic lake in the world known as Lake Toba
For more information about Medan Hotels please visit www.MedanKu.com - The Pride of Medan Indonesia - Travel & Living website for travelers.
Other resources for your summer vacations can be found at www.VacationSpotsIdeas.com
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