CONTENTS The Bell Pool Villas
18
Gap Year Guide
He Loves, She Loves
Go Green
26
28
Iran
30
22
Round the world for £1000!
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EDITOR’S NOTE Welcome to the summer issue of Rihaal! We hope our inaugural issue helped you with some handy travel hints and inspired you to consider new destinations. I was so enthused by Elena’s article about exploring Greece like a local that I visited myself in May and fell head over heels with the history, cuisine and stunning scenery. You can check out some photos of my trip on Instagram. In fact, I loved it so much that I’m already planning my next trip there in 2018 inshaAllah! In this issue, we’re exploring eco-conscious travel, Iran’s little-known art scene and the unique opportunities of living as an ex-pat in Asia. We’ll also have our usual features on travel style, keeping healthy while abroad and will be hearing from the Nomad in Seat 1A. I love receiving your feedback, so feel free to drop me a line on asmaa@serendipity.travel. Until next time: live happy, travel happy!
Love, Asmaa x
CONTRIBUTORS Nisbah Hussain
Esra Elhamal
Nisbah is a lawyer and financial advisor by trade, but after the arrival of her little adventurers she gave up her corporate career and chose to travel the world with her children. Nisbah’s award winning blog, Five Adventurers, showcases the best in family travel as the family embark on making the world their classroom.
Esra is a Saudi designer and a travel blogger based in London. She blogs about her travel experiences as a Muslim female travelling solo or with friends, as well as sharing travel videos on youtube. She mainly focuses on well designed, artistic, fun experiences and destinations that are suitable for modern, active Muslims.
Find out more about Nisbah
Find out more about Esra
Chantal Blake
Ridhwana and Ahmed
Chantal is a Jamaican-American writer from New York City. A frequent traveller since birth, she married a fellow nomad and has been living abroad since 2008.
As British expats, currently living in Kuala Lumpur, the husband and wife duo showcase their experiences from their individual viewpoints. Ridhwana is an art enthusiast owning an online design business, and Ahmed is a travel vlogger, fitness fanatic and English language teacher. What makes their story a little bit different is they find excitement in moving home every few years; living ‘amongst the locals’ in different parts of the world allowing a truly enriching experience. Their newest addition, Abdur Rahman has been a globetrotter from birth, grew his first tooth in one continent, and took his first steps in another.
In spite of her background in environmental engineering, her work abroad has included teaching English, travel writing, and raising two awesome little people. Her writing covers themes of family travel, veganism, and migration. While her life is totally unlike what she planned, it is perfectly as it was meant to be. Find out more about Chantal
Editorial Susannah Willett
Find out more about Ridwana and Ahmed
Creative Director Simon Clements - SC23 Creative
Maliha describes herself as one half of Her Adventures With Him, a newly wed couple, traveling around, experiencing cultures, trying new foods, and meeting new people on their way. The now London based artist transplanting from San Francisco allows her travel images to communicate her personal experiences in capturing those moments. For her, traveling is to meet people and see beyond their skin colour, their clothes, their beliefs, and stereotypes and hopefully in return, for the world to see beyond her hijab.
heradventureswithhim www.heradventureswithhim.com
HANGER ONE 6
Qatar Airways heads to Chiang Mai Qatar Airways has announced it will launch flights to beautiful Chiang Mai, its fourth destination in Thailand, as it expands to meet increased demand for Thai destinations from holiday-makers. The new route comes in addition to existing services to the Thai capital Bangkok, and to the top holiday destinations of Phuket and Krabi. Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “Thailand continues to grow in popularity with holiday-makers and it’s not hard to see why. Our new flights to Chiang Mai mark our fourth route to this beautiful country, reflecting the demand from our customers for more high-quality leisure destinations”. “Our existing services to Phuket, Krabi and Bangkok are already incredibly popular, especially with customers from European countries such as the UK, France and Germany. Therefore, we are delighted to announce yet another destination, offering our renowned five-star service between Doha and Chiang Mai for leisure travellers. It also demonstrates our commitment to expand our reach with ambitious new routes around the world, taking our passengers to where they want to fly.”
Flight Schedule Doha – Chiang Mai (Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday) Doha (DOH) to Chiang Mai (CNX) QR822 departs 20:05 arrives 06:00 (+1) (Tue, Thu, Sat, Sun) Chiang Mai (CNX) to Doha (DOH) QR823 departs 07:10 arrives 10:55 (Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun)
Shangri-La Colombo Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts announced that Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo is set to open on 16 November 2017. The hotel will begin taking bookings from 1 September 2017 for stays from 1 December 2017. Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo will be the second property in Sri Lanka for the luxury Asian hospitality group – joining Shangri-La’s Hambantota Golf Resort & Spa, which opened in June 2016 – and is anticipated to be one of the most prominent hotel launches in Sri Lanka in nearly 30 years.
No worries in Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi has been named the safest city in the world by Numbeo, a website that curates and collates data to develop the world’s largest user-contributed database about cities and countries worldwide. With the lowest crime index of just 13.54 in the past six months, and the highest safety index of 86.46, Abu Dhabi was well ahead of second place city, Basel, Switzerland in the scores for overall safety. Respondents to the index stated that Abu Dhabi has very low crime levels and scored the capital at 94 per cent for a general feeling of safety in the city. Last month, Abu Dhabi was named the second-best city in the world to live, work and do business in, overtaking both London and Paris in the most recent Ipsos City Index.
Shaumari Wildlife Reserve reopens in Jordan Shaumari Wildlife Reserve is once again welcoming the public in this summer following a five-year maintenance and refurbishment programme. The first wildlife protection reserve in Jordan, Shaumari Wildlife Reserve has since its launch in 1975 created a thriving 22 kilometre environment for some of the rarest species in the Middle East including oryx, gazelles, hyena, Imperial Eagles and onagers, to name but a few. Started by the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature as a breeding centre for endangered or locally extinct wildlife, Shaumari Wildlife Reserve has successfully returned the Arabian Oryx to its native habitat, following its extinction from Jordan in 1920. Nasr Al-Tamimi, Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature, Wild Jordan, said: “Shaumari Wildlife Reserve is a fantastic experience for tourists visiting Jordan as it showcases the diversity of our country and passion for conservation whether it is wildlife, history or culture.”
Qatar waives visa for 80 countries Amidst the political upheaval currently ongoing in the Gulf, Qatar’s Ministry of Interior (MoI), Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA) and Qatar Airways announced that Qatar will allow visa-free entry for citizens of 80 countries. Citizens of the selected countries wishing to visit Qatar will no longer need to apply or pay for a visa, which includes the UK, USA and Canada. Instead, a multi-entry waiver will be issued free-of-charge at the port of entry, upon presentation of a valid passport, with a minimum validity of six months and a confirmed onward or return ticket.
Tourism tax hits Malaysia If you’re planning a trip to Malaysia any time soon, you will now have to pay 10 MYR (about £2) per room per night for any standard of accommodation you’re staying in. Following cities such as Dubai, hotels across Malaysia will levy the new tourism tax as a flat fee and collected at the time of check out of your hotel. It appears that ever more and more destinations are following suit, with tourism levies becoming more and more popular to raise revenues.
8
Ortaköy Mosque, known as the Grand Imperial Mosque of Sultan Abdülmecid in Istanbul, Turkey, is situated at the waterside of the Ortaköy Pier Square, one of the most popular locations on the Bosphorus. It is neoBaroque in style, with an ornate exterior, and large windows that allow light to flood into its interior. Built in 1721, it is considerably smaller than mosques on the other side of the river but no less important. The carved columns, high windows and unique layout make for a visually striking interior. It was designed by Armenian architect, Garabet Balyan, and his son Nigoğayos Balyanl, who were also responsible for the nearby Dolmabahce Palace.
9
We were lucky enough to interview Zohra Khaku, founder of a great new app called Halal Gems that does exactly what you need when hunting down the best places to eat. Zohra’s app that is being launched next month provides easy connections to the best halal friendly restaurants nearest to you, removing the hassle from finding somewhere to dine. We asked Zohra a few questions on travel, food, what inspired her to come up with the app, and what we can expect from Halal Gems, and thought we would share her answers so that you too can enjoy, delicious halal friendly cuisine that may be nearer to you than you first knew.
Zohra: The Halal Gems app is designed to make it easier to find interesting new restaurants. It also helps give you a sense of what the best things to order are, and what other people thought of their experiences. It has collections of restaurants curated by us, as well as exclusive collections curated by special guests. If you’re looking for the best halal chinese in London, a full English breakfast in Manchester, or the best places in Abu Dhabi that don’t serve alcohol, the app will find the right restaurant for you.
My vision for halal food is that one day, ‘halal’ will indicate the best quality, most ethically produced, fairly traded, wholesome, tayyib food available. This may take years to achieve, but we want Halal Gems to be part of that story. Rihaal: I read an article dated back from February last year where it said halal restaurants are hard to find, and you were aiming to change that. Now it’s been a year since the article was released, do you feel there has been a change? Have halal restaurants become easier to find? And are they more accessible now? Zohra: They are certainly more accessible (see halalgems.com!), but I do think that there are great restaurants out there that people haven’t heard of. If your friends know about new restaurants, you might hear about them, but search engines still don’t do a great job helping halal conscious diners to find new and novel restaurants. Rihaal: I see you have an app coming out soon, could you tell us a little about it?
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Zohra: It feels amazing! The production team are the real winners since they put so much in to the show. The show deserved recognition and I’m glad we won. Whether you loved or hated the show, its message that Muslims are not all one type of person was absolutely achieved. Rihaal: You recently launched Street Eats which was a huge accomplishment. Where do you see the event heading next?
Rihaal: What motivated you to do what you are doing now? Was there a specific reason you decided to launch Halal Gems? Zohra: Michael Pollan’s book In Defence of Food changed my life. It prompted me to think much more about what’s in our food. I became vegetarian for seven months until I could understand where our meat comes from and what it really is. I also realised that we really don’t know much about the ingredients that go into our food, and that ‘halal’ can mean almost anything.
Rihaal: Since the success of Muslims Like Us, how does it feel to be a BAFTA winner?
Zohra: Having hosted the biggest Street Food festival that London has ever had, the only way is down! Just kidding! We’re hosting the next one pretty soon, and looking forward to introducing some exciting new traders to the foodie world. Watch this space for details! Rihaal: You must try out some amazing food. Do you have any favourites?
Rihaal: What is the first thing you pack when you’re heading on holiday?
Zohra: Trying to pick my favourite food is hard! Highlights for me are Lebanese at Sambusek in Abu Dhabi, Cona in Bradford and sushi at Nobu in Malibu. For me food is all about the stories behind the food and the story of the meal itself.
Zohra: My eye cover thing and neck pillow for the airplane! I’m not sure what the eye cover things are called. Eye muffs, like ear muffs?! I like to sleep in complete darkness, and sleeping on a plane is hard enough, so anything I can take to help is important. Mine are from Muji, small, lightweight and stripy. I also have a mathematical rule for how many of each type of clothes to take both in my suitcase and my carry on.
Sambusek was amazing because of the innovation in Lebanese cuisine (you can read my review of Sambusek here). At Cona in Bradford the chef/owner has such passion for his food and atmosphere at the restaurant that he can talk about mundane details like the lighting and make it sound utterly fascinating. Nobu, Malibu was a trip I took with a friend where we celebrated her becoming a ‘real’ doctor. There was a piece of sushi on their tasting menu that was like a party in my mouth. It was sushi, but it tasted like a mojito. Rihaal: On the contrary, what is the strangest cuisine you’ve sampled? Zohra: Beef tongue soup! In Malaysia my friend Iman took me to a Nasi Kandar where she recommended trying this unique dish. It actually tasted pretty great, and I now recommend it to anyone travelling to Malaysia.
Rihaal: Imagine for a second you could take anyone from past or present with you on a round the world in eighty days’ voyage. Who would it be and why? Zohra: Definitely the Prophet! (saw). I’d love to see the world from His point of view. So much to learn. That would be an incredible experience. Rihaal: If we could send you anywhere in the world tomorrow, where would it be and why? Zohra: Take me back to California! I haven’t been back since 2013. It has been way too long. I’d love to be relaxing at the Marina in San Francisco, a beach near Los Angeles or on the water by San Diego. All of these experiences would be made complete with fish tacos!
Tantalising Thailand BY NISBAH HUSSAIN
WHY THE LAND OF SMILES WILL STEAL YOUR HEART
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Thailand conjures up many images: sandy white beaches, culinary delights and an abundance of temples, but for Muslims the association with Thailand is sometimes less positive. Having spoken with fellow Muslim travellers, we often hear comments focusing on sun-seekers, parties, unfriendly family places and alcohol. The aim of our travels has always been to inspire other families to seek adventures and where possible to highlight the wonder in each destination we visit. In 2015 we spent several weeks in Thailand exploring, tasting and playing in a country which has such incredible variety that it is a shame it is often overlooked.
Thailand was our first long-haul with all three little adventurers in tow and the highlight for us all was the time we spent in Chiang Mai. I remember as we approached the landing strip at Chiang Mai airport, I looked out of the window and all I could see was thick, lush jungle in every direction; it felt like we were set for a real adventure.
Enjoying the rice planting
Cultural activities The hotel offered varied activities which were really different to those which we’d experienced in other hotel stays. The activities that really stood out for us were the opportunity to plant rice, yoga for adults and children, giving alms to the monks in the morning and a cultural tour of the local area.
Inspiring accommodation choices We spent our entire stay in Chang Mai in the exquisite and truly luxurious Dhara Dhevi Hotel, and it enhanced our stay in so many ways. The hotel is designed as a standalone resort, and yet is only 10 minutes via taxi to the heart of Chiang Mai. Our accommodation was in a twin villa which easily accommodated our extended family group of seven, and between the two buildings we had our own pool. The attention to detail in the décor both inside the villas and outside the vast grounds was unbelievable. As we drove around the grounds, we saw that every effort had been made to bring traditional Thai culture to life through the hotel. From the Nagas on the entrances, to each villa representing part of the Northern Thai culture and history, it was a great way of experiencing different aspects of the unique culture.
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The cultural tour was surprisingly great for families as our guide, Sirikanya, shared fun and factual information about Thai culture and traditions. It was lovely to have a real in-depth conversation with someone from the country we were visiting, as one of the reasons we travel is to educate and show our little adventurers about all the differing cultures in the world. My personal highlight from our trip to Thailand was rice planting. We dressed in traditional farmer outfits and being in costume really brought the experience to life for our little adventurers. The hotel grounds are home to several rice fields, with the rice grown donated to local orphanages. We walked across the boundary edges to the rice fields and I was instantly taken back to our family’s crop fields in Pakistan and walking on similar field pathways as a little girl. The fact I never actually had any idea where or how rice was grown highlighted that it’s a great learning experience for all those involved. The initial step into the rice fields will see you knee deep in water (in the case of our youngest it was abdomen-deep!). The farmer has a bunch of rice plants to bed into the water and tasked us to complete the field. I loved that the children got stuck right in without any inhibitions or worry and started beavering away the task. We then learnt how to play traditional Lanna instruments and learnt the traditional art of lotus flower folding.
The Emerald Temple
Family friendly activities in Chiang Mai We loved exploring Chiang Mai and found the city to be incredible for family-focused activities, many of which are unique to the area. For animal lovers, a visit to the Elephant Sanctuary is a must. Seeing animals in the wild is an incredible experience and the work done by the Elephant Sanctuary is inspiring. Bathing elephants should be on everyone’s bucket list! The image of seeing your children full of mud and smiling as they play with the elephants will stay with you forever! For adventurous teens, ziplining though the Thai rainforests will definitely get their adrenaline pumping. The jungles in the area are stunning, and the ziplines go through some amazing scenery, are super quick and lots of fun which will see even the most bored teen having a great time. The two highlights of the trip for us were some of the coolest activities we have experienced anywhere in the world. The first was the Art in Paradise Museum. We spent hours inside the museum which is an interactive art gallery and it is THE way to get children excited about art. The images are optical illusions and visitors are able to become the stars of the images. It was great fun for everyone. The second and possibly the quirkiest attraction we have ever visited was the Poo Poo Paper Factory. The elephant population in Chiang Mai is vast, so a company decided to use the elephant poo in a sustainable way and produce paper with it! The attraction is small but the staff are amazing and led a tour with us through the factory, showing how elephant poo is transformed into paper. Our little adventurers were captivated. Is there anything more fun than talking about poo for a few hours?
Beyond Chiang Mai Our time in Chiang Mai was incredible, but Thailand has so much to offer to families, with the capital Bangkok being an ideal starting point and lovely city to explore as a family. I find it is often overlooked by travellers and yes, Bangkok is bustling, polluted and can be a little “full on”, but it’s an insight into the “real” Asia. The city is much less polished than Kuala Lumpur and Singapore and that is precisely where its charm lies. Within the space of 5 minutes, you leave the big shopping malls and find yourself in the back streets, mixing in with locals and experiencing the charm of a simpler life. Markets are a must, from the floating markets to an array of night markets, with our favourite being the new Train market which is home to lots of halal street food. The Emerald Temple
The Emerald Temple
The Grand Palace is stunningly beautiful, and as you walk around the bejewelled building you cannot help but be awe at the time and effort it would have taken to create such a stunning piece of architecture. Bangkok is a real cultural hotpot; you can walk up the hillside to the most serene temple at the Golden Mount and next have a treat in the Hello Kitty Café. There are traditional shows like the Siam Nimirat, which is a real visual spectacle and more modern attractions like KidZania a short taxi ride away. No article on Thailand would be complete without mentioning the amazing beaches for which the country is famous. Families seeking a beach break will be spoilt for choice in Thailand, and it is no surprise that these beaches are the location choices of numerous Hollywood blockbusters. We spent some time in Krabi, with the backdrop of Phi-Phi Island, also known as James Bond Island, in view of our hotel. In the monsoon season the beaches of Krabi are practically deserted and we had the entire beach to ourselves for many days. Our little adventurers played, swam in the sea and spent hours upon hours enjoying the delights of beach, a perfect ending to any family adventure.
So why should Thailand be next on your list? Thailand is called the Land of Smiles, and you will be met at every corner with beaming faces. From the stall holders to locals you meet in the street, the country is full of smiling, pleasant people, who make it a real delight to explore with children. Aside from the initial flights to Thailand, once you are there the country is really affordable, especially when compared to the likes of Singapore. It is also incredibly cheap to fly around. We flew from Bangkok to Chang Mai for under £10 each, so you can see lots of the country very cheaply and within a few weeks. What I loved most is that whichever destination you choose in Thailand, you will be spoilt for choice with the activities to do as a family. The choices really are endless and often incredibly cool and unique. Behind the scenes over the last few years, the Thai tourist board have made a concerted effort to attract the Muslim community and have succeeded. It is estimated the number of Muslim travellers has surged from around 25 million a year in 2000 to 117 million in 2015. The needs of Muslim travellers are also a great focus of the country, as the number of halal certified products made in Thailand has gone from 10,000 to 160,000, with new eateries and hotels catering for the needs of Muslim travellers opening all the time. During our time in Thailand, we danced in the monsoon rains, became rice farmers, stood in the feet of ancient temples, watched poo being made into paper, had massages every day and made memories which will forever be forged into our memories.
Serendipity Tailormade offer 5 night experiences in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai from £1299 per person. This includes 2 nights at the Dhara Dhevi in Chiang Mai, 2 nights at the Le Meridien in Chiang Rai, their exclusive Tuk Tuk Adventure in Chiang Mai and private transfers.
For more information click here
GEEK GADGETS FOR THE ADVENTURER
re you an adventurer that loves exploring the deep blue seas? If you are, stop right here! We’ve got your water adventure needs listed below. While going on holiday is exciting enough, having the chance to explore the underwater world is an unmissable experience. Making sure you have the right equipment on you and ready for action can either make or break your adventurous discoveries. We’ve put together the ultimate geek gadget list for those looking to get up close and personal with the beautiful underwater world and the amazing creatures ruling the waters down below.
GoPro
Snorkeling equipment
Almost everyone has heard about GoPros and their magical features that make picture taking and videos that much more enjoyable. As a reliable camera that can fit in your pocket and capture memorable moments like no other camera has before, adventurers will enjoy the full package with touch screen features, timers, clear views, voice control, and most importantly, the ease of capturing your most treasured memories down below.
Waterproof camera casing If you don’t have a GoPro and are using a standard camera, make sure you invest in a waterproof case. No one wants to discover their camera has broken just when you need it the most, making it a reliable and essential gadget for underwater lovers. With your waterproof case and camera at hand, enjoy taking breathtaking pictures of your underwater discoveries and adventures before uploading them to your social media account and sharing your experience with your family and friends.
Diving into the deep blue sea can be tiring work, especially if you’re looking at spending hours of fun in the water. For adventurers that love underwater exploration, investing in your very own snorkeling equipment means you’re ready to go at any time. While you can rent certain snorkeling gear, having your own makes your snorkeling experience that much easier. It’s also more hygienic to have your own gear, instead of renting out equipment that may have been used by lots of people before you!
Selfie stick
Wetsuits
A few years ago the word ‘selfie’ didn’t even exist. Fast forward to today and you’ll find the word that means ‘a photograph that one has taken of oneself, typically one taken with a smartphone or webcam and shared via social media’, in the Oxford Dictionary. Along with selfies becoming a popular part of everyone’s day to day life, selfie sticks have become a popular tool in aiding one with their picture perfect photographs. Selfie sticks are great for capturing pictures from a certain length away. Use the selfie stick to get close ups of views you can’t reach, or for the ultimate picture of yourself completely surrounded by the hundreds, if not thousands, of water creatures swimming beside you!
For those that find themselves frequently spending time in the water, especially those that enjoy diving and snorkeling, we recommend investing in your own wetsuit. While most resorts and diving centres provide guests with rentable wetsuits, the costs quickly add up, making it worthwhile purchasing your own. There are a selection of wetsuits available on the market, all which are designed to cater different to different levels of coverage, colours and styles.
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THE BELL POOL VILLAS
Who wouldn’t want a holiday tucked away in a peaceful and secluded location where privacy and nature compliments a stunning Thai environment? The Bell Pool Villas, situated in lively Phuket, is a chic boutique hotel that offers guests a private getaway to unwind and relax in complete serenity. Offering 16 Indo-chic villas, all which have been furnished and decorated to emphasize the many beauties Thailand has to offer, plus the breezy alfresco spaces and slinky ink-black private pools, are the perfect additions to a relaxing stay.
The Bell Pool Villas are just a 2-minute free shuttle drive to Kamala Beach, a stunning beach front with swaying palm trees, soft golden sands and a pleasant sea breeze. Guests at the Bell Pool Villas can enjoy complimentary access to the beach, where they can enjoy hours under the sun before retreating to their hotel to relax and unwind. For those who are more active, complimentary use of the hotel’s bicycles will allow you to explore the island in more depth. Your travels will let you engage with and meet welcoming locals, or take you on a mouthwatering culinary discovery where you’ll discover delicious Thai dishes available at almost every corner.
Choosing your Bell Pool villa, and having your every need anticipated allows you to experience the ultimate luxury stay. Round the clock private butlers are always on hand, and the extra home-from-home luxuries such as lavish in-villa dining and spa sessions on tap will make your stay unforgettable. Surrounded by beautiful scenery and relaxing views, the refreshing natural environment and sea breeze give you your very own private paradise, with everything you need close by. The Bell Pool Villas are a halal friendly hotel and provides halal food as standard. All non-halal items are labeled and prepared separately, ensuring Muslim travellers can enjoy a relaxing halal holiday. Female only butlers are also available upon request, and those that seek in-room private spa treatments can unwind as their mind, body and soul relaxes in the comfort of their lavish villa. Ensuring privacy, comfort, and the relaxation you seek is one of the many things the Bell Pool Villas does best. This halal friendly hotel aims to provide all their guests with the complete holiday package, with the staff always willing to go
out of their way to ensure your holiday is full of impeccable Thai hospitality. Despite being ideal for Muslim honeymooners or couples looking for a romantic getaway, families with children will enjoy the special services the Bell Pool Villas have carefully provided. A children’s menu is now available to treat the younger ones to their favourite foods, while Netflix is ready to keep your children entertained with some movie magic. Let the little ones relax as they laze around in the comfort of your villa, or let them take a dip in your private pool where they can safely and privately enjoy hours of water games and fun. At the Bell Pool Villas, guests can enjoy the quality time as a couple, family or group of friends in the lap of luxury. From relaxing scenery to luxurious in- and out-door villa comforts, and the very best in halal friendly services, the Bell Pool Villas should be top of the list for those looking to enjoy a small piece of Phuket’s paradise with privacy in mind, but still have the comfort of exploring and engaging in the islands many must-do experiences.
Serendipity Tailormade offer 7 nights at the Bell Pool Villas including return flights to Phuket from London, private airport transfers, daily breakfast and a complimentary in-villa massage for two from £1699 per person.
For more information click here
The Style List A day at the beach requires little gear; a big towel, some sophisticated sunnies and a bottle of factor 50 are the absolute minimums. But even the most minimalist traveller can upgrade their day in the sun with some stylish accessories and must-packs. We’ve listed our favourites to help you enjoy every precious ray of sun.
Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker The Ultimate Ears Wonderboom is small enough to throw in the most compact beach bag, but powerful enough to keep the beat going all night long with an impressive 10hour battery life. It has a wireless range of 100+ feet and can be linked to two devices at once. We don’t go anywhere without ours. From £85/US$80 at Amazon.
Waterproof and Shockproof Camera The Olympus Tough! TG-5 isn’t the cheapest option, but it gets our vote for being virtually indestructible. It’s waterproof to 15m, freezeproof to -10 degrees and shockproof to 2.1m so will be more than capable of handling a day on the beach. It comes packed with features including a GPS sensor and temperature, compass and pressure sensors, as well as filming in both 4K and full HD. Invest in one and capture picture perfect moments whether you’re under water or in piles of snow! From £399 at John Lewis.
Pop-up Beach Tent Keep the kids in the shade, or escape the rays yourself with the Pacific Breeze EasyUp Beach Tent. As the name suggests, it is so simple to put up a child could do it, and the XL version has enough space for a family of 4 or 5 to spread out in comfort. The expertly engineered tent offers SPF 50+ protection and large windows for ventilation. Taking it down at the end of the day is a breeze too and best of all it weighs less than 3 kilos! From US$70 at Amazon.
EasyAcc Monster 26,000mAh Power Bank Is there anything worse than reaching for your phone to take the perfect beach selfie and realising you have 1% battery left? The wallet friendly EasyAcc Monster 26,000mAh Power Bank means you’ll never have to worry about running out of charge while out and about. Its 4 USBs and 2 micro USB ports mean you should have enough to keep the wholefamily topped up no matter which device they use, and a handy LED indicator lets you know how much charge the powerbank has left. From £30.99 on Amazon.
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THE MUSLIM BLOGGERS THE MUSLIM GIRL
CHEF IN DISGUISE
Name
Ikhlas Hussain
Name
Sawsan
About
Faith, Fashion, Life, Love
About
Food blogger
Focusing on topics such as faith, fashion, life and love, The Muslim Girl, also known as Ikhlas Hussain, is a successful blogger whose website will truly inspire female Muslims. Ikhlas’ colourful site is full of entertaining and inspiring blogs that aim to spread awareness of topics that many women come across on a day to day basis. Describing herself as ‘a regular girl who wants to live life beautifully and modestly in the 21st century, no matter what challenges life throws at her”, she’s definitely worth the follow if you’re looking for inspiring advice with a slice of womanly wisdom.
Based
UAE
FARRUKH QADRI TECH REVIEWER
MUSLIM TRAVELLERS
Name
Farrukh Naeem Qadri
Based
Abu Dhabi
Check her out
Check him out
Tech lovers and those looking to try the latest gadgets and devices need to give Farrukh a follow. A lover of gadgets and travel, Farrukh, who is currently based in Abu Dhabi, is an inspiring freelance copywriter, journalist and social media consultant and is always creating crazy new content covering a range of topics. Enjoy keeping up to date with the latest gadgets, getting to know the ins and outs of social media, advertising, marketing, and entrepreneurship, all while learning the latest on what technology to use. Follow Farrukh and find out how you too can become a digital sensation alongside an inspiring freelancer.
Check her out
Looking to put together the perfect halal dish? Sawsan’s website has everything you need! A food blogger who focuses on easy authentic Middle Eastern recipes, her site is perfect for food lovers looking for creative ways to spice up their dishes. Currently living in the UAE, Sawsan has put together a whole list of delicious recipes perfect for any occasion. From appetizers to main meals, kid’s food and dips, desserts and pastries, plus a whole lot more, anyone looking to get busy in the kitchen will find the ‘Chef in Disguise’ a gift sent from above with her simple yet satisfying recipes.
Name
Zain and Huda
About
more than 200 cities and are still counting. They have an original bucket list of 200 Muslim friendly activities which they are trying to finish.
Check them out Travelling - have travelled to
Travellers looking to create their own bucket list or simply explore a new destination will want to follow Zain and Huda as they go on a journey to complete their travel bucket list. Known as the ‘Muslim Travellers’, the two enthusiastic travellers have put together the ultimate Muslim-friendly bucket list that they’ve almost completed! Alongside great travel trips and guides, lists of halal hotels across the globe, and a whole range of travel related blogs, these two are definitely worth following. Hop on and join the ride as you travel the world with the Muslim Travellers to accomplish their goals, and be inspired to start to planning your next journey to accomplish your travel dreams.
AT HOME IN BY RIDHWANA AND AHMED
s a child growing up in the rainy Northwest of England, weekends were often dulled down by the gloomy weather. Bored, staring at the puddles forming through the window, I’d tease my mother: “Out of all the places in the world we could live, you chose England?”. “The place with the worst weather” we’d laugh. I guess that passion for finding somewhere with a much brighter weather forecast grew with me (as did my love for England, rain and all, I promise!)
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Our most recent home has been in the much-loved, colourful city of Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia. Whilst toying with the idea of this move, a dear friend convincingly reminded me that “EEEVERYBODY loves Malaysia, it’s the one place even all the scholars visit and love!” And she was right: Malaysia is one of the most popular holiday destinations for Muslims from all over the world, whether they are a group of friends, honeymooners, young families, retired couples or a group of world-renowned scholars; everyone leaves with glowing things to say. After living in Saudi Arabia and exploring the Middle East for three years we were excited to travel around Asia, but a mere holiday wouldn’t suffice. Our thirst for the Far East and its rich culture was much greater than could be satisfied in a couple of weeks. So, true to us, we relocated! And what an absolute honour it is to be able to call Malaysia home.
Flights from Kuala Lumpur to countries like Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore and other parts of Malaysia are frequent and inexpensive. We made the most of this and had a brilliant time traveling to these dream destinations, with the comfort of knowing that we had a home right in the centre of it all. Thank God for no jetlag! As experienced expats, the move wasn’t particularly daunting. Malaysia is developed and well facilitated, making the transition smoother than anticipated. Having travelled straight from the Middle East, the heat wasn’t too unbearable; rather the greenery and shade was a huge improvement. Roads were organised, English was widely spoken, people were famously friendly and there seemed to be a good system in place. It did take us a good three months, three different apartments, and countless agent meetings until we found ‘home’. After the stress and uncertainty that comes with house hunting in a foreign land, it’s fair to
say that our Malaysian home was absolutely worth the wait. The 31st floor modern, furnished apartment showcased the most romantic view of KL city centre, whose skyscrapers twinkled proudly alongside ordinary Malaysian houses. It was one of the most inspiring views to wake up to in the morning, encouraging a productive day ahead. It reminded us daily that anything is possible. There is so much we love about living in Malaysia and it would be impossible to do it justice in just one article, so we have narrowed it down to our favourite few!
HE LOVES A good workout and hearty gym session is always on my mind and is something that helps me feel settled no matter where I go. Malaysia has a blossoming fitness culture which made it so easy for me to adjust; there are mainstream gyms in most malls a mere 5-10 minute drive away, and there are plenty of humble ones located above convenience stores. For the days I was feeling really lazy, the communal gym and pool in our apartment block was a ready option. This easy accessibility played a huge part in helping me get into a good routine and feel right at home. I particularly enjoy circuit training and pound-for-pound training, along with mixed martial arts. Gyms in Malaysia are well facilitated, complete with diverse training equipment, making it possible for me to achieve a complete workout; I could make use of weights, machines, boxing bags and circuit training equipment all under one roof. MUAY THAI. Need I say more? Mixed martial arts has been a part of my weekly workout routine for quite some time now, and I was delighted to come across several Muay Thai gyms in Malaysia. Classes are available daily either for group training or one-to-one coaching. I was blessed with the opportunity of being coached by some incredible professional fighters several times a week, which helped polish my technique and improve my performance. My coach and peers are an amazing group of brothers; their commitment and discipline is something that will motivate me for a long time. I felt an overwhelming sense of humbleness and unity in these gyms, true to the overall soft and well-mannered nature of Malaysians in general something I hadn’t noticed before in the West and Middle East. I appreciated this ego-free atmosphere, where training was about learning and developing and not about pride. Malaysia in its nature is hikers’ paradise! It has countless parks, jungles and nature reserves, offering many scenic trails for walks and trekking. The routes and intensity vary and it is absolutely up to you as a family how challenging you want your outdoor adventure to be. The heat is often a task in itself, however most jungle trails are shaded by the trees and rewarded by a cooling waterfall at the end. I’d always recommend an umbrella though! Hiking and trekking was a definite bonus to my fitness options in Malaysia, and somewhat of a novelty having moved from the Middle East.
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S HE LOVES The freedom to create helps me get
COMFORTABLE One of the things that makes relocating easier for us, is establishing a routine that includes spending time on our hobbies. Whilst discovering new experiences, it’s great to spend time doing something we already enjoy; there’s a sense of home and comfort in that alone which helps us feel settled. As a small freelance artist and designer, I’m constantly inspired by my environment. Malaysia is an absolute dream in that sense and really helped progress my creative skills and designs. The bright weather, lush greenery and rich, diverse culture all complimented my creativity. Malaysia itself has a proud growing community of artists and crafters, as handicraft is at the heart of their culture and is practiced religiously in many Asian countries – this made it very easy to find craft stores and workshops, making it possible to access different tools and try new styles. Already a nature lover, I quickly became obsessed with the scenic lush greenery Malaysia boasts and would find myself staring out of the window daily, admiring the forests in the distance. I had a lot of fun letting my new surroundings inspire my work and released a home décor collection which married my modern art style with charming natural textures and materials. The bright weather and daily dose of sun also meant that my work always photographed beautifully in the natural light – win win! Stunning mosques decorate the country, unique in build and design yet all similarly breath-taking. Much of my time when we first moved to Kuala Lumpur was spent admiring the fascinating architecture, intricate Islamic art and Quranic calligraphy, all of which comforted me spiritually and creatively. The mosques are welcoming, beautifully kept and a haven for everyone, and it was this peaceful secure ambience that reassured me that Malaysia could be our home.
Find out more about Ridhwana and Ahmed at SUNNAH ACTIVE and RI.INK
THE GAP YEAR GUIDE CONSIDER... IS A GAP YEAR RIGHT FOR YOU? Gap years require a lot of discipline and commitment. This time should be considered the perfect opportunity to exploring your interests, find your passion and discover what your really want to do in life when you move on to university or before you take on your first serious job. Before deciding whether or not you should take a gap year, ask yourself, “is a gap year really right for me?”. Question yourself and talk to your family or friends about the real reason you want to take a gap year. Are you really interested in exploring the world and getting to know yourself and your passions? Or are you looking for an escape or a postponement because you’re simply not ready, or can’t be bothered (!) to face reality?
n recent years, gap years have become a popular choice for those who have just finished high school or university. While some people use this time to earn some money (or even do nothing at all!), others are opting to travel or seek a temporary job before continuing with their studies. Over the last few years, travelling during a gap year has become a popular choice for young (and increasingly, older) people. While we definitely agree one should treat themselves to a break every now and then, and while exploring the world and getting to learn and experience different cultures is absolutely great, there are a few things you should consider before making a big decision.
RESEARCH... DO YOU KNOW WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW? As soon as you’ve started to question yourself about taking a gap year, do some research. You should definitely discuss your decisions with your college or university to find out whether they support gap year deferments. Some colleges do not agree with gap years, while others are more favorable. You may have to reapply if you do take a gap year, making it an essential that you find out all this information and what support you’ll be able to get before making your final decision. A gap year can put a strain on your application depending on the college of your choice.
FINANCES... ARE YOU FINANCIALLY READY? Taking a gap year can be expensive. Depending on where you plan on going and what you plan on doing, gap years can cost both you and your family a lot of money! However, because a gap year should help clarify whether your original choice of degree is what you really want, in the long run this can also save you money. In some cases, students choose a degree without really knowing whether it is something they really want. Your gap year should help you determine if you’re heading towards the right degree and possible life long journey focusing on what you truly love the most.
PLAN AHEAD... WILL YOU STILL GET FINANCIAL AID UPON YOUR RETURN? Depending on your family’s financial situation, you may or may not receive financial aid from your university or your government upon your return. Most of the time it’s your family’s finances that will be taken into account, and whether you qualify for financial aid based on your household’s income. In some case, scholarships can be put on hold for students that take gap years, while in other circumstances colleges may give your slot up. Anything to do with finances should be considered before your final decision, and more so for those that have already decided to take a gap year.
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ONCE YOU’VE CONSIDERED EVERYTHING AND DECIDED TO GO FOR IT, WE HOPE YOU HAVE AN AMAZING TIME. DON’T FORGET TO SEND US A POSTCARD!
Sustainable Travel What it Means and Why it Matters
By Chantal Blake
Modern travel has changed the way we interact with the world. We hop on flights, catch trains, and cross long distances in hours instead of months. Parts of the world that once seemed unknown and remote can now be accessed with comfort and ease, thanks to a hospitality industry that leaves no corner of the world out of reach. However, transport, tourism, and development don’t always benefit the local habitat, community, or economy. Recently, however, a more restorative and conscientious approach known as sustainable travel has emerged to meet current needs without compromising the future. The idea of water recycling, energy conservation and waste reduction may seem revolutionary to some, but these practices are the kind of earth-conscious habits that have preserved our ancestors and planet for millennia. To make your jet-setting more environmentally and socially sustainable, let’s take a look at the critical questions to ask when planning your next trip.
Where to go? As with all travel, establishing your intention is important. What exactly we hope to obtain or experience should be a praiseworthy aim pursued in a principled manner. Don’t let the bucket lists of others influence your travel goals or destinations. Consider exploring your locality and region before crossing the planet. If a long-distance trip is necessary to fulfill religious duties, family obligations or business dealings, try to make the most out of your trip by achieving as many objectives as possible. Imagine a honeymoon that starts with hajj or a business trip that includes an extended layover to visit family. Feeding multiple birds with one piece of bread is the efficient way to go.
How to get there? While air travel is most convenient, it’s also the least environmentally friendly way to get around. If it is your only option, consider direct flights to minimize the high carbon emissions of take-off and landing. Some airlines have an optional surcharge to offset the carbon footprint of your flight by donating towards tree replanting or conservation efforts. Exploring travel options by sea or land will stretch your travel time, but may also deepen your experience. Meandering through the countryside by train or bus gives you a glimpse of life outside of major metropolises and urban hubs. Also, consider using a personal car for road trips with family and friends to create unforgettable memories together.
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“Be in this world as though you were a stranger or wayfarer” Prophet Muhammad PBUH
“Take nothing but pictures. Leave nothing but footprints. Kill nothing but time.” John Muir
Where to stay? Sustainable travel doesn’t have to mean camping and compostable toilets. Eco-friendly resorts and sustainable brands around the world have redefined luxury and routinely reduce the waste they produce. Halal Luxury Travel’s partner brands like Six Senses, Banyan Tree, and Anantara demonstrate that quality doesn’t need to be compromised for the cause of sustainability. Make sure the accommodation you choose actively seeks to protect natural resources, support local economies, and preserve natural habitats.
What to do? If you find yourself entering an unfamiliar country or culture, research the general beliefs and customs of the people, and learn how best to tread respectfully in their land. Find restaurants that serve regional cuisine derived from locally available produce instead of relying on foreign imports. Participate in cultural activities that enhance your understanding of a country in a dignified way and compensate artists, professionals, and workers fairly for their services. Be wary of zoos and attractions that use animals for entertainment, and consider supporting the work of non-profit organizations that improve the long-term livelihood of the species, both human and animal, that they serve.
Why bother? Sustainability is not just for environmentalists and minimalists. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) modelled moderation and conservation in personal and public ways. Most of us know about the way he cautioned against wasting water and food, but our blessed Prophet also reminded us to plant trees, cultivate the land, be kind to animals, and tread gently upon the earth. Beyond faith as a motive, let us consider that we share a finite planet with more than seven billion people. Industrialization and overconsumption are damaging and exploiting the earth in unprecedented ways, resulting in air, water, and land pollution that compromises our global well-being and future. If you have the means to travel well, you should express gratitude for that privilege by also travelling ethically, sustainably, and responsibly.
Incredible Iran Discover a true hidden gem It is always bewildering for people when I tell them that I love travelling to Iran. One of the first questions is always “But how? Are Saudis even allowed there?”. My answer used to be “Yes!”, but since last year’s ongoing political drama the answer has changed to “It’s complicated.” Until last year, I could get a three-month visitor visa on arrival, although it is worth noting that the visa process differs from one country to the next. Politics have affected the tourism in Iran strongly, and the situation continues to change rapidly. When I was in Iran in 2015, I saw large numbers of Arab, European and Asian tourists. More and more people have finally realised that the portrayal of Iran on the media is not accurate. Everyone I know who has visited the country instantly fell in love with the beautiful nature, the breath taking architecture, the hospitable people and the mouth-watering cuisine.
“Politics have affected the tourism in Iran strongly, and the situation continues to change rapidly.” I visited Iran for the first time with my family when I was fifteen and was lucky enough to return several other times, but for many years I had hoped for the opportunity to explore the country’s art and architecture. In 2015, I was given the opportunity to join an art-study trip guided by Farkhondeh Ahmadzadeh, Shahriar Piroozram and Paul Marchant of The Turquoise Tour. We visited four main cities; Shiraz, Yazd, Isfahan and Kashan. We also stopped by few places on the way including
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By Esra Alhamal
Persepolis, Natanz, Nain and Maybod. The trip lasted 14 days and although I was exhausted by day 13, I still didn’t want it to end! I took over five thousand photos but I still wish I could go back and take more. We started our trip in Shiraz, which houses dozens of breath-taking architectural gems including Madrasa Khan, Nasir Almulk Mosque and Hafiz Tomb. Nasir Almulk Mosque, also known as the Pink Mosque, is one of the most photographed mosques anywhere in the world and is known for its dancing pink lights that are reflected on the stained glass doors. The lights were installed as a treat for believers who wake up early for morning prayers because the reflected patterns are most elegant at dawn. If you ever have the opportunity, I strongly recommend you visit for yourself. Once you’ve feasted your eyes, try Shiraz’s outstanding cuisine which is second to none. Hands down, Shiraz’s food was the best that I had ever eaten on my many visits to the country and elsewhere. It was not just the usual kebabs and rice; they had many specialty dishes with fresh ingredients and just the right amount of spice. Dining in restaurants is a “thing” in Shiraz, much more so than the rest of Iran, and the food was cooked with such care and heart. From Shiraz we travelled north to Yazd, our second stop. Yazd is somewhat different to the rest of Iran and when I first arrived I wasn’t sure what to expect, but by the time I left I was totally in love with the city. The unique Jamea Mosque has become one of my favourite mosques ever. In fact, to give you an indication of just how much I loved it, I went to the same mosque three times in the space of two days and took pictures every single time! Built in the 12th century and renovated in the 14th century, the mosque is known for its Azari style and dominant Persian blue hues.
Yazd’s unique old town centre is reminiscent of Old Fez, with quaint passageways and domes peeking over the skyline. Four hours east of Yazd is the breathtaking city of Isfahan, and I was most excited for this stop as I had yearned for years to go back there. As they say “Esfahān nesf-e- jahān ast” (Isfahan is half of the world). Although this wasn’t my first visit to Isfahan, during the visit I took the time to appreciate its unique beauty and Islamic Persian architecture and patterns, despite all the tourists. There are many iconic sights to visit in Isfahan including the Jameh (Friday) Mosque, Shaykh Lutfallah Mosque, Shah (Imam-i) Mosque, Hakim Mosque, Chehal Sutton and Vank Cathedral. What makes Esfahan really interesting is the variety of adorned sites including schools, mosques, palaces and gardens.
“Yazd’s unique old town centre is reminiscent of Old Fez, with quaint passageways and domes peeking over the skyline”
Another must-see in Isfahan is Shaykh Lutfallah Mosque. From the moment I stepped inside, I was amazed at the scale and beauty of both the hallway and the main prayer hall. In fact, I was so awed by its beauty that I had to sit down to take it all in. I wish time allowed because I thought each place we went to needed two visits: one for enjoying the beauty and another for taking pictures! Isfahan is also full of beautiful bazaars. As our time there was relatively short, I only had the opportunity to visit the bazaar near the main square which was very relaxed and full of fascinating goods from intricate carpets to hand-carved wooden trinket boxes. I wanted to buy everything! The last stop of the trip was Kashan, and I really wish we could have stayed longer as it was the perfect spot to paint. Although only a two hour drive from Tehran airport, it also felt like the least touristy city, and was full of peace and beauty. During the two days we were there, we visited the Agha Bozorg Mosque which has become another favourite. It was constructed in the 18th century when Islamic design started to become undervalued and is therefore very minimalist compared to the ornate mosques elsewhere. Every time I visit Iran I find something new to explore and admire. Next on my Iran bucket list are Mashhd in the far north for the hot natural springs and the skiing resorts. I can’t wait to tell you all about it!
For more photos and information visit Esra’s blog here
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HERE’S HOW TO DO IT Discover 4 continents, 9 countries, travelling 24,825 miles with eight low cost airlines; the ultimate travel bucket list is now easier than ever to tick off with the boom of low cost airlines. It’s not everyone’s favourite way to travel, but sharpen your elbows to get to your seat, pack light and you can circumnavigate the world for less than you think.
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London to Budapest
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Budapest to Dubai
£25 27th Feb 2018
1st March 2018
Ryanair is really no frills, so make sure you print your boarding pass and expect to attach your own luggage labels to your baggage!
Flight Time Date of Travel Cost Additional information
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Sharjah to Cochin
£65
2h 25m
Carrier
3
£70
5h 20m
6th March 2018
A brilliant low cost airline with some nice benefits like one free name change on slightly higher fares and reasonable baggage options.
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Sydney to Honolulu
Air Arabia have emerged as the region’s main low cost airline and with pretty hefty fares on their scheduled rivals, it’s a welcome option for those medium haul flights.
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Honolulu to Vancouver
£180 23rd April 2018
9h 35m
The longest leg of the trip, and it’s all Pacific Ocean to the islands of Hawaii. Land in the ‘big island’ and the next major land mass is the west coast of the US - 2600 miles away!
4h 00m
£230 1st May 2018
5h 40m
Not the longest flight, but certainly the most expensive. Although it’s nice to be stranded in Hawaii, heading home begins here with a flight into the Canadian metropolis.
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2
3 4 5 6
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Cochin to Kuala Lumpur
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Kuala Lumpur to Bali
£60 16th March 2018
4h 15m
Vancouver to Seattle
21st March 2018
3h 45m
Ok, so we’ve added in a little surprise with a train journey cross border into the US. You could fly with Westjet but then you would miss the scenery along the western seaboard as you pass Everett and Edmonds.
£120
3h 00m
29th March 2018
With so much competition on this route fares are super cheap and book early enough you could pay even less. A 3 hour jaunt to the edge of Asia and you’re in Bali!
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Seattle to New York
£25 8th May 2018
Bali to Sydney
£40
One of the most established low cost carriers in the world are still one of the best too. Halal food on-board, friendly staff and generally good time keeping.
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5h 20m
The US is a big country, so a 5 hour flight is not unusual as a domestic flight. Low cost carriers in the US don’t have the best rep, so you may want to take a couple of sleeping pills to make the trip fly by.
5h 40m
One of the longer sectors on your journey but in less than 6 hours you’re down under. Jetstar are pretty good in our opinion and whilst not full service, gives Qantas a run for it’s money.
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New York to London £90
£120 15th May 2018
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21st May 2018
7h 00m
Primera Air is an Icelandic owned airline with direct transatlantic crossings. Choose from economy or premium economy and they even have on-board wifi (for a fee). For £90, that’s a bargain!
Prices correct on the 2nd August 2017 from each airline’s website. All fare are basic fares including airport taxes but excluding baggage, seats and any other fees associated with the flight. The complete routing is not for sale with any company and is only bookable through each airline’s individual website.
Cabin Fever
Emirates will be operating extra flights to Jeddah to help facilitate travel for thousands of pilgrims this year heading to and from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for Hajj. Emirates will be operating 45 additional flights to Jeddah and 12 additional flights to Medina from 17 August until 11 September to help serve the 2 million pilgrims expected to travel to the Holy City of Mecca during Hajj this year. These services will run in parallel with Emirates’ regularly scheduled services to Jeddah. The airline will also be operating its A380 to Medina which will also support the increased demand during this period. The additional services are available to travellers holding a valid Hajj visa. This year, top inbound destinations Emirates is expecting Hajj pilgrims to come from are Yangon, Manchester, Mauritius, Jakarta, Karachi, Lagos and Nairobi.
www.emirates.com
CABIN FEVER
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oing on holiday guarantees one thing: you’ll have luggage. Taking your personal belongings around the world with you can be a stressful experience, especially if your trip includes multiple flights and airport stopovers. Making sure you have the right kind of luggage is a must when travelling and, as frequent travellers ourselves, we know the hassle a poor quality suitcase can bring. To prevent you from experiencing the ultimate luggage nightmare, we’ve listed some of the best luggage options available on the market today. From some of the most popular and reliable brands to bags with handy compartments and easy access, here are our top luggage picks for travellers looking to enjoy a stress free luggage experience.
Samsonite PRO-DLX ⁴Laptop £275.00 Backpack with Wheels Wheeled backpacks are one the most versatile forms of luggage available on the market today. The multi-functional piece of luggage provides travellers the option of hands-free carrying on the back, or the ease of casually strolling along with your backpack on wheels. For travellers frequently on the go, and for those who often travel due to business, we suggest investing in the Samsonite PRO-DLX ⁴Laptop Backpack with Wheels. This stylish backpack gives you easy access to your laptop while also keeping it safe and secure. It also has ample space for any other personal belongings you’ll need throughout your journey.
Samsonite LITE DLX SP Duffle with Wheels £199.00 Introducing a stylish duffle bag with wheels: the Samsonite LITE DFC SP provides travellers the space and comfort they need when on the move. Whether you’re looking to use this piece of luggage as a handbag or as a stroller, Samsonite Duffle with Wheels is ideal for those looking for the space to keep their luggage neatly positioned the way it was packed. Easily stroll through airports with the luggage’s handy wheels or use the bag's handle to carry it comfortably. This stylish piece of luggage gives travellers the chance to travel in style, with comfort being one of the main priorities.
TUMI TLX Extended Trip Hard Case £545.00 If you’re lucky to have booked a longer holiday, you’ll need a lot more space than a 1-2 week holiday requires. Nowadays, many travellers are exploring the world for months on end, making it crucial you have everything you’ll need for your extended escapade. For travellers looking for a trusty hard case that will protect their belongings, try out TUMI’s TLX Extended Trip Hard Case. Offering an impressive amount of room for all your holiday needs, plus a selection of compartments for smaller items, this suitcase provides travellers with a reliable case that will not only keep their belonging safe, but will also give them the room they need to make sure they have all their items safely tucked up inside whilst getting from A to B.
Samsonite LITE DLX Toiletry Bag £75.00 Keep your toiletries neatly arranged and all in one easy accessible place with your very own toiletry bag. No one wants to waste time rummaging through their entire luggage just to find their toothbrush or personal toiletries, and neither do you want to find your products have spilt and made a mess all over your clothes. We suggest investing in a reliable toiletry bag that will not only keep your most essential items neat and tidy, but will also prevent accidents in your bag. The Samsonite LITE DLX is a handy little bag that has plenty of room for your most needed personal belongings. Available in a selection of colours, enjoy a worry free flight with everything you need easily at hand.
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Travel Health
How to keep healthy while performing Hajj For many people, performing Hajj is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to fulfil one of the five pillars and re-connect with the Creator. Whether you’re a first timer or old hand, preparing well in advance and taking precautions while you’re there will help ensure that you stay as fit and healthy as possible, and avoid the dreaded ‘Hajj flu’ so you can reap the most benefit. The Saudi Arabian Ministry of Health (MoH) has published guidelines for pilgrims to avoid the risk of an epidemic, but it is also worth checking locally for country-specific requirements.
Before you go
While you’re there:
The MoH require all pilgrims to produce a certificate of vaccination against meningococcal meningitis. If you’re travelling from the UK, a proof of vaccination certificate from at least 10 days prior to the expected date of entry (but no older than 3 years) must be submitted with your visa application. Official advice for UK pilgrims is to also ensure that you have up to date inoculations for Measles, Rubella and Seasonal Influenza. Travellers from other countries may also require vaccinations against Yellow Fever and Polio. We advise that you check the requirements for your country with your travel agent.
Keep a personal First Aid Kit with you at all times. As a minimum it should contain dressings, plasters, small bandages, antiseptic cream, adhesive tape, sun burn lotion, scissors, safety pins, antihistamine cream or tablets, blister dressings, rehydration salts, painkillers (paracetamol or ibuprofen based) and an anti-diarrhoea tablets.
If you take medication regularly, talk to your doctor at least two weeks before you leave to ensure that you will have enough medicine to last you the trip. It may also be useful to take a letter from your doctor detailing your regular medicines for immigration purposes. Keep all medicines in your hand luggage in their original packaging, and take a written copy of your prescription with you. Consider taking out comprehensive travel insurance, including repatriation cover, before you depart.
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Yes, it is possible to avoid diarrhoea if you are extremely careful. Try to stick to bottled water and freshly-prepared food where possible. Hands should always be washed thoroughly before eating or handling food, and particularly after using the toilet. If you are unlucky enough to have diarrhoea, rehydration with clear fluids such as diluted fruit juice or rehydration salts should be your priority, followed by anti-diarrhoea tablets such as Imodium or Lomotil. Always follow the instructions carefully. In severe cases, antibiotics (often available over the counter in Saudi Arabia) should improve symptoms in 24 – 48 hours. In recent years, Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS CoV) has been a growing issue for pilgrims as it spreads quickly in crowded areas. The MoH advises the following: • Wash hands with soap and water or disinfectant, especially after coughing and sneezing • Use disposable tissues when coughing or sneezing and dispose of them carefully • Avoid hand contact with the eyes, nose and mouth • Avoid direct contact with infected people or use of their personal items • Avoid direct contact with animals, particularly camels and stay away from their gathering places • Avoid drinking camel milk unless it is pasteurized or boiled, camel urine or eating undercooked camel meat • If symptoms of fever, cold, flu-like illness or cough develop • seek medical help early • avoid crowded areas or wear facemasks if this is not possible • Maintain good personal hygiene at all times As Hajj is at the end of the summer this year, sunburn, sunstroke, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and dehydration are also a risk, even for those from hotter climes who may be used to temperatures of 40+ degrees. The MoH recommends drinking plenty of water (at least 10 glasses per day), avoiding high temperatures, resting as often as possible, and creating shade using an umbrella. Young children and the elderly in particular should be kept out of the sun, particularly between the hours of 11am and 4pm when the sun is typically at its strongest. On the day of Nahr (the 3rd day of Hajj), male pilgrims are obliged to shave their heads. Non-sterile blades can transmit blood-borne infections such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV. If possible, visit a licenced barber at an officially designated centre, otherwise carry a disposable single-use blade or your personal razor to minimise the risk of infection.
We hope that by following the official advice you will remain as healthy as possible and have the most productive and fulfilling Hajj, inshaAllah.
SMALL GROUP ESCORTED TOURS 2017/2018
Japan & Korea
Departure: 18th March 2018
Our flagship tour for 2017 takes you on a journey to the Far East with our tour of Japan and Korea.
Green Tea. Our final stop in Japan is in Osaka, the third largest city of Japan before we fly west to Seoul.
Our trip begins in Tokyo, the metropolis of Japan where the uber-modern meets the traditional. We’ll explore the Imperial Palace, the Tokyo Tower, the Tokyo Camii Mosque as well as hope for an opportunity to witness the famous Cherry Blossom Fesitval also known as the “Hanami” or flower watching. The next day, we’ll visit the beautiful Mount Fuji before we head south to the city of Kyoto by the high speed bullet train.
Arriving into Seoul, the capital of South Korea is a truly 24 hour city with everything from fashion to palaces, cutting-edge design to mountain trails. The next four nights will be spent exploring sights such as the Gyeongbok Palace, trying your hand at Kimchi making and a cruise down the River Han. We’ll also spend a day visiting Nami Island and the Garden of Morning Calm before the highlight tour to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) to understand more on the historical partition between North and South Korea.
Throughout the trip, you’ll experience local halal Japanese cuisine from hand rolled Sushi to steaming Ramen, and in Kyoto we’ll also try the famous local
Bosnia
PRICES FROM
£995 PER PERSON
Our escorted tour of Bosnia is a glimpse into a country of contrasting beauty and darkness. On the one hand, their torturous past holds vivid memories, and on the other the stunning beauty of the countryside, waterfalls and even Pyramids are a sight to be held. From Bosnia’s many rivers and fertile land comes its wonderful cuisine, local meat, fruits, cheeses and honey are organically grown, and giving back to the local economy is an important part of the Bosnian culture. On our tour, we visit sights such as the Gazi Husref Bey’s Waqf, Shehids Cemetery, Travnik Fortress, the Esma Sultana Mosque and the Bosnian Pyramids in the historic town of Visoko to name a few. We also pay a visit to the beautiful town of Mostar and Srebrenica, the backdrop for some of Bosnia’s darkest moments.
Included • Seven nights 4* accommodation in Bosnia • Halal breakfast, lunch and dinner included each day
£3499
Included • Return flights from London Heathrow to Tokyo returning from Seoul. • Regional flights between Japan and Korea • Seven nights 4* accommodation in Japan including daily breakfast • Five nights 4* accommodation in Seoul including daily breakfast
PER PERSON
• Halal lunch and dinner included each day • Air conditioned private transportation during the tour • Entry fees during the tour • Fully escorted by Serendipity Tailormade
Based on two people sharing a room. Single supplement is £750.
Departure: 18th June 2018
• Return flights from the UK
PRICES FROM
• Air conditioned private transportation during the tour
Malaysia & Thailand
Departure 5th October 2017
The Far East is exotic, tropical and full of amazing landscapes and scenery. Combined with incredible cuisine, here’s your chance to visit Thailand and Malaysia. We start in the metropolis of Kuala Lumpur, before heading north to the island of Phuket. Here we’ll explore the beautiful Phang Na Bay. Our final stop is in the vibrant city of Bangkok.
Included • 3 nights in Kuala Lumpur
• Daily breakfast
• 4 nights in Phuket
• Guided tours throughout (contact
• 2 nights in Bangkok • 4* and 5* hotels throughout
us for full itinerary
• Full escorted by Serendipity Tailormade
• Entry fees during the tour • Fully escorted by Serendipity Tailormade
Based on two people sharing a room. Single supplement is £195.
An extension to Singapore is available after the trip at a supplement of £375 per person. This includes a one-way flight from Kuala Lumpur to Singapore, private airport transfers, half day city tour and three nights 3* accommodation. Your return journey to the UK will depart from Singapore and the option must be stated at the time of deposit. This extension will not be escorted by Serendipity Tailormade, however you will be met by one of our colleagues in Singapore. Based on two people sharing a room. Single supplement is £350.
city by taste
SINGAPORE Home to as many flavours in a square mile as anywhere in the world, Singapore is a foodie haven. Eating is a hobby in Singapore, it’s part of the culture, the history and is a testimony to the diversity the city has been built on. When Sir Stamford Raffles sought to convert Singapore into a trading post for the East India Company in 1819, immigrants from China, Malaya, India, Indonesia, Europe, the United States and the Middle East flocked. This led Singapore cuisine to be mixed-cultural society food and even in modern day Singapore, there are influencing restaurants from the corners of Little India to Arab Street.
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FOR THE AUTHENTIC
FOR THE COOK
Bismillah Biryani Restaurant
Seoul Garden
50 Dunlop St, Singapore 209379
Bugis, Downtown and City Square Mall
OMG! The only way I can explain my reaction after a lunch post Dhur prayers. True to it’s slogan, it really was one of the best biryani’s I’ve had, reminisicent of a ‘dum biryani’ in India many moons ago. It’s not the type of place you’ll want to entertain someone looking for cutlery and fine wares, but for a vivid memory for your taste buds, it’s a must.
There is something quite satisfying about cooking food that tastes really good, and at Seoul Garden, you’re in charge. Simply select the raw ingredients from Chicken, Beef, Shrimp and Vegetables, head back to your table and start sizzling away. For $15.99 at lunch or $27.99 at dinner, it’s great value when feeding the family!
FOR THE HUNGRY ONE Aquamarine Marina Mandarin
If you’re feeling like everything and anything, then the halal certified Aquamarine at the Marina Mandarin is fantastic for a buffet spread. With both local and international cuisine spread, don’t over do it, it’s a bit easy to do. Check out their signature dishes Jumbo Laksa and Hainanese Chicken Rice.
FOR DIM SUM HEAVEN Tang Tea House Hong Kong Café
357 Bedok Rd Singapore
Delicately prepared by Shanghainese chefs, Tang Tea House is famed for the freshness and authenticity of its halal dim sum ranging from chicken pau, har kow, siew mai and steamed chicken dumplings. Halal Dim Sum is pretty rare, so take advantage of the array of flavours to try out.
FOR THE TRAVELLER Carousel Park Plaza on Scotts From sashimi to Nasi Lemak, there is so much to choose from at Carousel. From Mediterranean, Asian, Japanese fare, a lavish seafood spread, an impressive French Rotisserie, and four dazzling dessert stations catering to guests with the occasional sweet tooth, the wide array of delectable cuisines will leave diners spoilt for choice. Voted the Best Buffet Restaurant in Singapore at AsiaOne People’s Choice Awards for 7th consecutive year, Carousel is also the only restaurant inducted into the award’s Hall of Fame.
FOR MOM’S COOKING Hajah Maimunah Restaurant 11 & 15 Jalan Pisang Singapore 199078
Simple, great tasting home cooked food. That’s what you get here, and you won’t be disappointed. With traditional Malay food on tap, you must try the Sundanese Grilled Chicken, the tempting Lemak Siput and the wide varieties of barbecued fish. Along with dishes such as Sambal Goreng, Tahu Telur and my favourite, Beef Rendang are among the selections on offer.
The Nomad in Seat 1A NABEEL SHARIFF I think I’ve turned into a travel snob. There I’ve said it, and it’s a weight off my shoulders for coming out. “Why”, you may ask? It could be the only perk of working in an industry for over half my life where you can’t take a holiday without someone promoting their new Dior bathroom amenities or a 300-seater ballroom overlooking the ocean. It’s part and parcel of being the messenger, to you, the traveller.
I remember my first memories of travelling on a 747, or a jumbo jet as we used to call it in the late eighties. My mother used to dress me up as if I was going to my first cousin’s wedding; collared shirt tucked in to my pleated trousers. My father was in a jacket as we checked our giant American Tourister hard case into the British Airways counter at Heathrow Terminal One - the flagship terminal back then. We were flying economy, but for some reason the privilege of flying was a treat, and “one should behave and dress appropriately” according to my parents. Fast forward to the mid-nineties when my father was frequently invited to fly the family in the Saudia First Class cabin and suddenly the level stepped up a notch. The space was incredible; it like having a bed considering I was so small, let alone the service and the VIP treatment, so looking the part seemed to be important, as all the other gentlemen straightened their ties. Today, flying is a means to an end. Of course, I love the occasional business class flight, with the priority boarding and the pre-flight lounges. It’s unadulterated escapism into your own little cloud, without the queuing and meticulous baggage weighing. In 1950 there were around 2 million departures and arrivals worldwide a year whereas now you’re looking at well over 250 million a year. Air travel is as frequent as taking a bus for some, however my fear that the special feeling of flying has gone forever. Are we now numb to one of man’s greatest achievements; taking to the air? I recently flew with a certain blue and yellow low cost airline, and the term cattle herding couldn’t be better likened to the experience of being shuttled between two airports in the least
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glamorous way. A three-hour flight in non-reclining seats less comfortable than London’s old Routemaster, and having to use washrooms which had seen much better days did remove any possible gloss air travel had twenty years ago. That said, I loved the fact I could fly to Morocco for less than train ticket from Manchester to London, and for that reason who cares about glamour flying? “It’s the experience once you’re in destination” I kept telling myself. However, no matter how much I have tried to convince myself of that obvious truth, I missed the anticipation of boarding, having a legible welcome from your captain (of whom I was always in awe) and friendly, prim and proper cabin crew. Even with some serious air miles under my belt and having the opportunity to experience so many flights, I’m still a kid when I’m scheduled to fly. There is that childish excitement of seeing the crew board, thinking one day that could be me wearing golden lapels with maybe three stripes (if I was blessed 20:20 vision when I was 13), and travelling half way across the world with little more than a carry on. I am not envious of pilots and cabin crew with their vigorous timetable and poor work/life balance, but the opportunity to see the world is still an ambition many of us secretly possess, otherwise why do we still explore the world with our holidays? Maybe one day, a shiny new way to travel may be invented, or supersonic travel will make a return to woo us all again. Either way, one day I may be tempted to don a pinstripe suit, tuck in my shirt and straighten my tie for landing.
Discover your next halal friendly destination from Thailand to the Seychelles. Visit www.luxuryhalaltravel.com to start planning your journey.