Ramadan in Turkey
This year Ramadan (or Ramazan) starts on the evening of Saturday 2nd April, and ends on the evening of Monday 2nd May.
What is Ramadan?
Ramadan is the Holy Month of Islam. It is a month of fasting, prayer, empathy and celebration. Fasting is the act of not consuming food or drink, or partaking in sexual activity, between sunrise and sunset. This is a way of demonstrating commitment to God in the face of temptation and difficulty. There are, of course, exceptions to the fasting rule including children, older people and those in ill health.
Although you don’t see it as much nowadays, in previous years it would come as no surprise to hear drummers patrolling the streets just before dawn. This was to wake people up and give them plenty of time to eat and drink before sunrise.
Eid al-Fitr
Eid al-Fitr is the the celebration at the end of Ramadan. This will take place from Monday 2nd May to Wednesday 4th May. There are celebrations and family meals which will, no doubt, be bigger and better this year after two years of pandemic restrictions. The holiday also serves as a reminder for Muslims to be grateful for what they have, and to share with those who may be less fortunate.
How Will Ramadan Affect You?
If you are visiting a primarily touristic area the only difference during Ramadan will be the volume of traffic going to the beach resorts such as Ölüdeniz. There may also be less food on the shelves in supermarkets and cash machines are likely to run out of money a little more often.
During Eid al-Fitr government institutions and banks will be closed.
What Should You Be Mindful Of?
Although no one will expect you to follow the rules of Islam during this period, please keep in mind that many of the people serving in the bars and restaurants are following the rules of fasting. Whilst they will be more than happy to serve you, their smiles may look a little strained as they could simply be thinking of how soon they can have a nice cold drink and a bite to eat.
If you haven’t yet found your perfect forever home or holiday home from which to witness this annual event, take a look at a couple of properties that have recently come on to our books. To speak to us about these, or any of our other listings, please contact us here.
