Dark Nomad

A lot of people tend to get nervous at the thought of travelling in the more conservative Muslim countries. The concern is largely borne of ignorance. Conservative Muslims aren’t going to lop off your hand the moment you pass the salt with your left hand. There are however a few tips you should remember that are hopefully common sense to anyone who is used to showing respect to others.

Photo by Radiant Guy

Dress Appropriately – This is just common courtesy. Look at how the rest of the people are dressed around you. Long sleeved shirts and long pants are probably going to be the norm. Loose fitting is better. In many places wearing shorts is completely out so be sure to keep that in mind. In Saudi Arabia you might even be arrested by the religious police for rolling up your sleeves. Check the customs of the country you are going to and if you’re not sure about dress standards then err on the side of conservative and cautious.

Don’t Chat Up the Opposite Sex – This is a really good way to get into trouble and it’s really the type of trouble you don’t want. In many places (especially rural areas of Muslim countries) this will offend the living hell out of the locals. Get all your sexing out of your system at home or in Bangkok or Amsterdam because you don’t want to be playing those games in many parts of the Middle East.

Photo by Atilla1000

Ask Before Taking Photos – And don’t take photos of women. The asking thing is just common courtesy, but you will also find that some areas you travel through might be considered “sensitive” to the local constabulary or military so best to ask before you shoot.

Don’t Preach – If you’re a Christian or Buddhist or whatever, feel free to tell people (if asked) but do not start preaching or trying to get converts. This is a sure way to get thrown in jail and possibly worse depending on who catches you doing it. It’s also pretty rude.

Photo by Shabbir Siraj

Are You Jewish? – Unfortunately, in many areas of the Islamic world, you might want to consider keeping that piece of information under your hat. While it might be fine somewhere like Malaysia, it can cause problems somewhere like Saudi Arabia.

Know the Basic Customs – You’ll want to take your shoes off in Mosques, not touch people or food with your left hand and not point the souls of your feet at anyone. These things won’t necessarily put you in danger, but it’s just common courtesy to follow the local customs wherever you travel.

Photo by Ammar Abd Rabbo

Have Fun – People are generally friendly wherever you are in the world if you make the effort to be friendly to them. It can get stressful and frustrating travelling in the third world or totally different cultures, but if you take in the right attitude of friendliness and open-mindedness then things will run a lot more smoothly.

Travelling in a fundamentalist country is really no problem. Don’t try to impose your religion or your cultural values on others and you will be fine. Get to know a few of the local customs while showing a little respect and you will probably even end up enjoying yourself and making a lot of new friends.

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