Have you ever visited an islamic country?

Question

which one(s)?
and
what were your impressions?

Answer 1

I'm a blonde-blue eyed American female and I've been to several muslim countries (including some of these alone on holiday or others to work in): Turkey, Syria, Jordan, Iraq, Pakistan, Oman, Sudan, Senegal, Indonesia, Uzbekistan, Palestinian territories, Egypt, Tunisia, Bosnia, Albania, Kuwait, Qatar, UAE, Azerbaijan, and countries like Lebanon, India, and Eritrea that have significant muslim populations.

First of all, it's hard to generalise, but I'd say that in most of these, I felt safe on the streets or in the evenings. People were warm and the food was often excellent. People were curious about me, my country, why I was travelling/working there, etc., but I never felt threatened. I can speak basic Arabic and that helped immensely (just saying hello, thank you, etc., will get smiles) in countries where Arabic is spoken. I was in a few of these places during Ramadan which, while it can be a bit boring by day, is often very festive at night when fasts are broken. I was invited as a foreigner to join people or their families then. Some of these countries are 'dry' (no alcohol, or only permitted for foreigners/diplomats/certain hotels/etc.) while others have bars, discos, etc. It wasn't a problem for me to be in areas where I couldn't drink.

The most hassle I had would be shopping and haggling for souvenirs -- some places are a bit more forceful but not too bad...(just not what you want if you're in a bad mood or in a rush...enjoyable if you have the time and feel like bargaining). Some places, shopping was great and a highlight of the trip.

Many of these countries are beautiful or have famous historical places to visit -- ruins, mountains, beaches, deserts, souks, museums, etc. Some of these countries are among my most favorite places to visit.

I would encourage any open-minded traveller to make these trips. The basic rule of travel is to respect people's differences and cultures and enjoy the unique aspects of that place.

Answer 2

I've been in Egypt twice and in Jordan once. I was talking with a friend about this today because he has also been to both places. We both agreed that the food is better in Jordan, but the people are much friendlier (personable) in Egypt. Actually when I was in Jordan I felt like I was in New York. It is very expensive there. I love the whole area and the whole lifestyle. I am habitually late all my life for work and appointments so I love the concept of Middle Eastern time - it's ok to be late! Also I am not a morning person which makes Egypt a great place to be because everything stays open so late at night. I really want to move there in the next year, but have been considering a visit to UAE also.

Answer 3

I've lived in Morocco for two years (I'm American).

The King, Mohammed VI, is pretty secular - since coming to office in 1999, he's passed quite a few progressive laws (including some for women that contradict Shari'a or Islamic Law).

Statistics say that 99.9% of Moroccans are Muslim (the rest are Jewish), and that's basically true. Although Moroccans have freedom to practice or not (though not to convert), most actually do, by choice. There are plenty who drink, of course, and in cities, I'd say less than half of the women cover their heads, but at the same time, during Ramadan, nearly EVERYONE fasts, even some who don't pray at all.

It's a beautiful, rapidly developing country.

I really want to go to Lebanon and the UAE, personally.

Answer 4

Yes ...visited Lebanon in Jan '06..Fantastic place....incredible people , hospitality , scenery etc etc Had a ball ....going back in June to enjoy summer this time . It will be interesting to see if there is any change since the war last year ..I mean as regards attitude towards westerners .

Answer 5

i was born and raised in kuwait, its gorgeous, its what i pictured the U.S to be like. i have been to saudi arabia and i want to go to united arab emirates better known as dubai...i would go to dubai also known as the paris of the middle east. now if you want to learn about islam. go to pakistan, egypt, yemen, saudi arabia. look online to see what your tastes are and what you want to accomplish.
qatar, bahrain, turkey sound good too. dont forget malaysia and indonesia. muslim countries are in asia, africa and europe. hope that helps. you could email me for further guidance. also remember it wont be a desert.

Answer 6

Yes. I live in one.
My impression? about what? Islam? I am Muslim too..he he.

Answer 7

well, my parents used to live in afghanistan and they said it was beautiful but not anymore!!!! i also said this because my religion or whatever its called is islam!!