The Foreign Office has issued guidance for travellers ahead of Ramadan
UK tourists travelling to Turkey in the coming weeks have been issued an update by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development office ahead of Ramadan.
The holy month of Ramadan is observed by Muslims across the globe and usually involves fasting during daylight hours, with an emphasis on prayer, reflection and community.
This year it is expected to start on Friday, February 28 or Saturday, March 1 and is likely to last 29 or 30 days, depending on the sighting of the moon. When Ramadan ends it’s marked with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr.
The UK Foreign Office has shared guidance for travellers heading to Turkey during Ramadan. Tourists are also urged to get further advice upon arrival from their tour guide, hotel or business contacts.
If you’re in Turkey during Ramadan, you’re advised to take care with your actions in public as you could cause offence with certain behaviour. This includes:
- Eating, drinking, smoking or chewing gum in public in the daytime, including in your car
- Playing loud music or dancing
- Swearing in public
British travellers are also advised to:
- check opening hours of shops and restaurants
- be aware that if hotels and restaurants are providing food or drink in fasting hours, they may separate you from Islamic guests, for example with screens
- follow local dress codes – clothing that does not meet local dress codes may cause more offence at this time
- be aware that driving may be erratic, particularly when people are trying to get home at dusk
- be patient and show tolerance – fasting can cause tiredness, particularly during the late afternoon and early evening
You can check the latest travel advice at the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office website here.
