We wonder many times what is the difference between a Muslim traveler and a non-Muslim traveler because, in the end, we are all tourists. Well, this is totally true and I agree with the fundamentals that we don’t have that many differences but rather we share more common passions for travel, exploring the world and meeting new people and cultures.

However, we are different than the other travelers and we do have some different needs that are actually quite important for a Muslim. Of course, everyone practices their religion on different levels but I will cover the basic differences that we have compared to other travelers.

4 fundamental things as a Muslim traveler you need to plan your travel around in order to be able to observe his or her religion and have fun around the world.

This is the biggest difference we have from any other traveler.Islam is an easy religion and it doesn’t put undue pressure on people, contrary to what we might think or what the media shows. Muslims are required to pray five times a day during specific times that cannot be missed however when we travel we can combine and shorten these prayers.

As travelers, we are allowed to combine our lunch and afternoon prayers together as well as our evening and night prayers. This does give us enough time to be able to explore the areas we are visiting. The prayers are a form of Gratitude or Rent you have to pay. As Muslims, we believe that on the day of Judgment the earth and the places you have prayed will be witnesses for you that you have been there and prayed to your Lord.

Many religions eat a particular food that is allowed for them. For example Kosher for Jews and Halal for Muslims. Availability of Halal food is one of the most important aspects for Muslim tourists and affects the destinations they will choose. Many people visit only Muslim countries as Halal meat is easily available. There are people, who are not fussy and can eat vegetarian food for weeks. However, it is important and a different aspect of our travel requirements and many hotels and destinations are starting to happily provide such options. This of course has seen an increase in Muslim travelers and Japan is currently at the forefront of such an example.

As Muslims, we do choose different types of activities. We won’t be able to spend the nights in clubs drinking and dancing. I know this is the same with many other people and there are personal preferences however in Islam it is not permissible. When Muslims travel we choose places where we can relax and enjoy ‘other’ fun activities that don’t involve drinking and nightclubs. Movies, entertainment centers, and recreational activities are on top of our lists because it gives us the opportunity to have fun in a permissible way. places where I can enjoy a private beach or a spa to relax.  There are many hotels starting to take into account the Muslim travelers and their needs providing services to cater for them, such as segregated pools and spas.

Another important aspect is the time that we travel. For example during Ramadan when we are fasting it is very hard to be out and about traveling and exploring the world. We don’t drink or eat for up to 16 hours, which is a great detox but your energy levels are also low.

So usually Muslims do not travel during this month of the year. We can travel before or after or even during if we visit family but i think the majority of Muslims will not plan holidays during this month. That would defeat the whole purpose of Ramadan which is to reflect and connect with God rather than sightsee all day.