Ramadan is the most blessed and sacred month of the Islamic year and holds high value for Muslims. In this month, they keep fasts, engage in extra worship, and do a lot of dua to seek Allah’s mercy and blessings. For many, this is also an ideal month to plan an Umrah because it is a deeply enriching experience, and in Ramadan, the essence of the holy trip mounts up. So, to relieve themselves of planning the whole journey on their own, they seek the best Ramadan Umrah packages, as they ensure an easy and memorable experience. These deals cover visa processes, on-ground transport, hotel stays, and guided tours. When it comes to meals, pilgrims can either eat at the hotel or check out the local eateries themselves. If you are planning an Umrah in Ramadan and want to know about the famous Suhoor and Iftar spots in Makkah, you are at the right place. This article highlights some of the top dining spots that cater to the needs of pilgrims looking for tasty meals during the holy month in Makkah.

Top 8 Iftar and Suhoor Spots Near Masjid al Haram

1.     Al Tazaj

Al Tazaj is the first eatery to open in Makkah in 1989 and now has more than 100 branches in Saudi Arabia. It deals in a variety of grilled chicken and Arabic-style meals. It has a clean and tidy ambiance, and some of its famous dishes include kofta, kebab, and stuffed pigeons. Moreover, being close to the Haram, it is the best option for Suhoor and Iftar with meals rich in protein, providing energy to sustain the day’s fast.

2.     Al Deyafa Restaurant

Situated within the Clock Tower Complex on the 12th floor, this all-day dining outlet spoils the diners with an extensive buffet as well as a live cooking station. The buffet includes Arabian dishes, international cuisine, and tasty desserts. It is equally famous for providing a luxurious Iftar and Suhoor experience to the pilgrims with stunning views of the Kaaba. The eatery is also an ideal choice for pilgrims looking for a cosy and indulgent dining experience after their Umrah rituals.

3.     Al Ruwad Restaurant in Swissôtel Makkah

At Swissôtel Makkah, Al Ruwad restaurant is famous for providing a setting that combines a traditional ambiance with modern comforts. A lavish spread featuring live cooking stations is available during Suhoor and Iftar, catering to a diverse range of tastes. The best thing about this restaurant is its special focus on authentic Saudi food. Pilgrims can delight in its traditional dishes that are a feast for the palate and a vital cultural experience on the whole that is not to be missed while in Makkah.

4.     Zamzam Pullman Restaurant

It is situated in Makkah’s iconic Clock Tower and offers a memorable dining experience during Suhoor and Iftar. Its short distance from the Grand Mosque makes it an ideal option for pilgrims to participate in worship after breaking or keeping the fast. It serves traditional Saudi and international dishes against a backdrop of elegant views of the Grand Mosque and Kaaba.

5.     Al Khairat Restaurant

Al Khairat Restaurant is another epitome of fine dining located in the Swissôtel Makkah, focused on pleasing your taste buds with international cuisines and Arabian dishes. This is one of the best eating spots to treat yourself to the tasty Iftar and Suhoor buffet seasoned with unique tastes. It offers a range of mouth-watering dishes in a comfortable and serene atmosphere that are sure to please every pilgrim’s taste.

6.     Hyatt Regency Makkah’s The Oasis

Located just a minute’s walk from Masjid al Haram, this hotel is known for offering pilgrims and visitors a unique hospitality experience. It is a premium dining spot famous for its high-quality cuisine and soothing aura. This restaurant offers a wide range of Iftar and Suhoor meals to ensure that each pilgrim can eat as per their preferences. Hyatt Regency offers the best amenities for pilgrims and this is the reason it is often included in 5-star Ramadan Umrah deals.

7.     Al Shorfa Restaurant

Al Shorfa is a perfect place for pilgrims seeking a rare dining experience. It is located on the 11th floor of Al Marwa Rayhaan by Rotana and boasts beautiful views of Kaaba. It is known for bringing together authentic Saudi flavours like lamb mandi, kabsa, and freshly-baked bread, as well as à la carte and buffet options to suit every pilgrim’s taste. Hence, Al Shorfa promises a memorable experience for pilgrims in an al fresco setting during their holy journey in Ramadan.

8.     Olive Restaurant

The Olive Restaurant is located in the Jabal Omar Marriott Makkah hotel, and guests staying here can enjoy a special Suhoor and Iftar package. By opting for these deals, pilgrims can enjoy a traditional and a Mediterranean menu without having to travel anywhere else. Such services are often added in various last Ashra Ramadan Umrah Packages as they relieve pilgrims from the worry of going out from their hotels for Suhoor and Iftar.

Wrap Up

Ramadan is a time of spiritual healing and devotion, and those who plan to embark on Umrah in Ramadan can enhance its blessings manifold. However, eating properly is also vital for staying healthy during your trip and this is where the above-mentioned places can come in handy. But before that, you need to figure out your flights and accommodation for Umrah trip. For this purpose, you can take help from a reputable travel agency like Muslims Holy Travel. They offer the best Ramadan Umrah packages at affordable prices for the UK Muslims.

Thailand is a popular holiday destination famed for its beaches, ancient ruins, and cultural heritage. Whether you are planning a beach break in Phuket or a wildlife adventure in Khao Sok National Park, weather plays a vital role in deciding how your trip goes. Hence, it is very important to know about the best time to visit Thailand and identify key climatic elements like rainfall, sunshine, humidity, and winds. Out of all these, rainfall is the most important, and Thailand, being a tropical country, receives a lot of it. Understanding its rainy season can make a big difference between a good holiday and a great holiday. So, if you are planning to visit anytime soon or considering booking Thailand holiday packages for a smoother experience and want to know about the timing of the monsoon season in the country, you are at the right place.

When is the Monsoon Season in Thailand?

Thailand’s rainy season lasts from May to October, which most of the time deters some travellers, but visiting during this time has its perks. The usual tourist spots experience a dip in crowds, allowing you to explore the country’s hidden treasures calmly. Moreover, the serenity that envelops Thailand during the rainy season offers a unique experience, contrasting sharply with the pace of peak tourist times. While monsoon season brings heavy rain, it does not mean that your trip has to be dull. Thailand’s rainy season affects different regions of the country at various times and in different ways, as per the varying conditions of the areas. Let us discuss each region in a bit of detail here:

1.     Central and Eastern Thailand

These regions are typically warm and have extreme summer temperatures. The rainy season begins around May and goes till October with frequent rains but only in short bursts. The humidity, then, relieves itself for a short time.

2.     Northern Thailand

Both the North and Northeast regions have similar seasons. Due to the higher elevation, the winters here are cooler, and the temperature even gets down to freezing level sometimes. The rainy season runs from May or June to October in areas like Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Pai.

3.     Southern Thailand

In the south of Thailand, two seasons exist: the summer and rainy seasons. The south is divided into two distinct coastal areas: one lying on the east and the other on the west of the Thai peninsula. Popular areas include Phuket, Krabi, and Koh Phi Phi, in which the monsoon falls from May to October.

Which is the Ideal Time to Visit Thailand?

If you are going to the Gulf coast of Thailand or plan to spend holidays on the East coast, the best time to do so is between November and April. If you are visiting anywhere else in Thailand, November and February are the best months to plan a holiday, as the temperature is bearable and less rain is expected. However, there is no doubt that these months are the busiest and priciest times of the year. So, if you are ready to risk the rain to avoid crowds, then the wet season can be a worthwhile gamble.

Things to Do during Thailand’s Monsoon Season

Thailand’s rainy season is the perfect time to wade through the serene temples, walk along the quiet beaches, and discover villages that come alive with the rhythm of the rain. Whether you are an adventurer at heart or someone seeking peace in nature, there is something truly captivating about exploring Thailand under a gentle drizzle.

The monsoon season reveals a lot of hidden gems in Thailand that wait to be unearthed. Tourists can venture beyond the usual tourist trails and immerse themselves in the beauty of the spots that shine during the rainy season.

1.     Explore Pai

Beauty is always in the eyes of the beholder, and this quote sits best on Pai, which is a serene town that is located in the mountains of northern Thailand. It remains covered with snow during the winter season but as monsoon comes, the landscapes are awash with greenery, turning this place into a stunning piece of nature. Tourists can spend their day exploring this countryside on scooters, visiting local waterfalls, or simply soaking in the thin rain showers.

2.     Visit Chiang Rai

Add visiting Chiang Rai to your travel list, where you can marvel at the stunning White Temple that is a masterpiece of art. During the rainy season, this site turns into a mystic place, making it the photographer’s dream backdrop. Beyond this, tourists can engage with local hill tribes, learn about their customs, and experience the rich culture of the region. As crowds dip during the monsoon season, you can enjoy a more intimate and personal connection with this place and its culture.

3.     Phi Ta Khon Festival

Thailand’s monsoon season isn’t just about the rain; it is also the time to celebrate. During the rainy season, the Phi Ta Khon festival is set up in Dan Sai, where locals dress in colourful ghostly costumes and engage in music, dancing, and lively parades, all set against the backdrop of the monsoon rains. It is a unique experience that shows the cultural side of Thailand and offers a glimpse into its customs.

4.     White Water Rafting

The monsoon season opens up a whole new world of outdoor activities that allow you to experience Thailand’s beauty in a different light. If you love adventures, you will be amazed by white-water rafting in Chiang Mai, where the river swells with rainwater, promising a junky ride. As you slide through the water, you will come across lush landscapes that come alive during the rainy season.

5.     Jungle Trekking

When the rainy season comes in Thailand, it becomes an ideal time for the adventure lovers to plan outdoor activities. The hot favourite of many is a hike through Khao Sok National Park. During the rainy season, jungle trekking offers a different kind of adventure for tourists and lets them explore its soaked trails. During the trek, they can get to discover hidden waterfalls and spot wildlife that thrives during the wet season. Moreover, the fresh scent of wet earth and the sound of raindrops on leaves make the trekking experience magical.

Wrap Up

The monsoon season in Thailand offers a unique travel experience. The rain usually comes in short bursts, so you will have plenty of spots to explore. Just keep an eye on the weather forecast and plan your trip accordingly.

While the rains may feel like a challenge for many, they bring lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and a lot of activities to you, hence making it an ideal time to plan a holiday. So, if you are also looking to visit Thailand during the rainy season and get an intimate travel feel there, contact Virikson Holidays and book Thailand holiday packages. It is a leading travel agency that ensures you get to experience the best of your holidays without worrying about logistics.

So, do not let the rain deter your plans; pack your bags, grab an umbrella, and get ready to embrace the beauty and charm of Thailand in the wet season.

The Dolomites hiking adventure stands as a magnificent outdoor excursion that stretches across Europe’s landscape. The Dolomites in northern Italy showcase breathtaking limestone peaks together with transparent lakes and captivating alpine villages. Throughout years of Alpine trail hiking, we have discovered that the Dolomites surpass all other mountain ranges with their combination of natural beauty, extensive accessibility, and trail variety. The Dolomites hiking experience guarantees everlasting views for hikers navigating meadows or rising up steep ridges. This region is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which brings trail hikers from around the world. A trek through the Dolomites, binding history and culture with natural beauty, will give you the complete traveling experience you’ve sought.

Best Time to Hike in the Dolomites

Visitors planning a Dolomites hiking experience must focus on their chosen travel period. Late June through early October proves ideal for visiting because all paths become free of snow while all rifugios remain operational. Summer offers a perfect climate and vibrant wildflowers during this time that elevate the enchantment of your Dolomites hiking adventure. September provides quieter weather conditions and fall color splendor in addition to lower temperatures. Early spring along late autumn are unsuitable seasons since the trails often become muddy and may remain closed. Safety and complete enjoyment while hiking the Dolomites depend on advanced research of local weather conditions and trail condition information. Your hike at the proper moment will transform an enjoyable trip into a memorable experience.

Top Hiking Trails in the Dolomites

Hikers can experience some of the world’s most recognized trails through Dolomites hiking. The Tre Cime di Lavaredo loop is our top recommendation because it provides a moderate challenge and breathtaking mountain views. Lago di Braies offers hikers peaceful vistas, which make it an ideal spot for taking photos during Dolomites hiking trips. The Seceda ridgeline delivers unbeatable mountain views, and the Cinque Torri trail combines its Alpine landscapes with World War I historical significance. All hiking levels can find trails that suit them within this area. The Dolomites mountain paths are distinctly labeled and change in challenge level to accommodate all hiking abilities. Your selection of trail determines how much satisfaction you will derive from hiking in the Dolomites.

Multi-Day Treks in the Dolomites

The Alta Via 1 and Alta Via 2 multi-day hiking trails in the Dolomites present a spectacular way to discover this range more deeply. Long-distance trails run throughout the Dolomites region, which guide hikers between imposing mountain peaks and alpine pastures and quaint mountain refuges. Anyone starting their exploration of the Dolomites hiking should consider undertaking Alta Via 1 based on our first-hand experience. Travelers can make their journey more convenient as rifugios offer satisfying meals with comfortable accommodation options. The challenging Alta Via 2 trail requires experience because it demands expertise from its hikers. Hiking through the Dolomites for multiple days offers a complete submersion into the environment while giving you experiences that blend natural beauty with difficult terrain and peaceful moments.

Photography & Instagram-worthy spots

Dolomites hiking trails double as a paradise for photographers. Three essential locations for photo opportunities in the Dolomites are sunrise at Lago di Braies, golden hour at Tre Cime, and the breathtaking ridges of Seceda. This adventure provides unlimited photo opportunities for both DSLR users and smartphone photographers. Since the views are too beautiful to overlook, you should bring supplementary batteries and memory cards for your devices. Drone operations exist with particular restrictions that need to be examined ahead of time. Photographers find pure inspiration in the beautiful combination of alpine meadows alongside rugged peaks. This hiking allows you to capture some of the most aesthetic backdrops across Europe for Instagram posting.

Dolomites Hiking Map & Navigation Tips

The correct tools simplify the process of hiking through the Dolomites trails. Our recommendation for printed guides involves Tabacco Maps, while digital navigation should use either the Komoot app or the Gaia GPS application. We use these navigation aids during our Dolomites hiking excursions to protect ourselves when the fog descends or weather conditions abruptly worsen. Most trails are easy to find through proper markings, but distant areas need backup GPS navigation for safety. You should always download maps while traveling offline before hitting the trail. A successful hiking of Dolomites experience relies on proper planning and direction knowledge. Mobile phone service works poorly within mountainous territory. The combination of smart navigation systems ensures that your Dolomites hiking journey remains uninterrupted while being both picturesque and safe.

Essential Packing List for Hiking

Every Dolomites hiking expedition demands that you apply sound packing methods. We advise travelers to plan for adaptable clothing layers, waterproof items, durable hiking boots, and energy-dense food based on our extensive hiking experience in the Dolomites. When venturing into extended Dolomite mountain hikes, you should carry a sleeping bag liner, toiletries, and a headlamp as well as cash for rifugio stops. Lightweight products selected from reputed outdoor brands enhance comfort and safety in outdoor situations. You must adequately prepare because Dolomites hiking climbs steep elevation slopes while facing unpredictable environmental conditions. Organize your gear carefully when packing, since it will prepare you to handle whatever the Dolomites hiking paths might present.

Getting to and Around the Dolomites

Reaching your Dolomites hiking base is easier than it seems. The closest airports are in Venice, Verona, and Innsbruck. From there, renting a car is the most flexible way to reach trailheads. Public transportation options include trains and buses to key towns like Cortina d’Ampezzo or Ortisei. Once in the region, summer shuttle services make Dolomites hiking logistics easier. We’ve used both private cars and public transport—each has its pros. For Dolomites hiking, accessibility improves yearly, especially with eco-friendly transport initiatives. Plan to make your hiking experience of the Dolomites smooth from the moment you land in Italy.

Safety Tips for Hiking in the Dolomites

Soothing valleys await those hiking in the Dolomites, yet visitors must observe proper care of this natural environment. Preparation becomes necessary because the area contains sudden storms along with cliffs and remote locations. Before hiking on the trails, verify the weather conditions and inform someone about your planned path. Emergency number 112 will allow you to get through to mountain rescue teams. Hikers in the Dolomites need safety equipment that includes trekking poles and layered clothes, together with a GPS application. Never underestimate the mountains. The right planning and respect enable Dolomites hiking to be both safe and an unforgettable experience.

Conclusion: Planning Your Dream Dolomites Hiking Adventure

Dolomites hiking is more than an outdoor activity—it’s a journey into the heart of nature. With towering peaks, alpine meadows, and a rich cultural history, the Dolomites offer unforgettable hiking experiences for all levels. This guide, built on firsthand experience and trusted expertise, is your roadmap to a safe, inspiring adventure. From picking trails and gear to staying in rifugios and respecting the environment, every detail counts. With careful planning and a spirit of discovery, your Dolomites hiking trip will be one to remember. Whether it’s your first hike or your fiftieth, the Dolomites will steal your heart.

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