Ramadan

So the holy month of Ramadan is upon us. For the next month (according to the Hijri calendar) Muslims will fast through the day and break fast after the evening prayer. People will be working much shorter hours, and those not working will be awake all night and sleep during the day. Non-Muslims must be respectful and inconspicuous. Chewing gum or candies is not allowed. Drinking and eating must be done out of eye sight. Restaurants will be closed during the day. Stores and malls will open after the evening prayer and stay open until 2 or 3am. It is said that the religious police (Mutawa) will be out in greater force, and western women should not leave their compounds with there hair uncovered. Luckily, I am going on leave for a week during this time- and am counting down the days!! I am heading to Budapest and Vienna in 17 days and counting!!!!