As the Eid Al Fitr holiday approaches, residents across the globe are finding innovative ways to plan their celebrations, with some opting for unique travel arrangements while others are organizing community events to commemorate the end of Ramadan.
In the UAE, travelers are taking early action to secure the best deals for their holiday plans. A recent report by travel aggregator Skyscanner reveals that UAE residents are now booking their international and domestic trips three days earlier compared to the previous year. This proactive approach to travel planning is reflective of a shift towards greater financial prudence, as families and individuals are becoming more conscious of their spending habits.
Ayoub El Mamoun, a Travel Expert at Skyscanner, noted that domestic travel booking lead times have doubled, with minimum planning of 42 days for two-week trips and 47 days for trips lasting a month or more. "This indicates a more cautious and financial mindset as travellers seek value for money," he explained.
In tandem with early booking, travelers are encouraged to utilize travel comparison websites like Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Kayak. These platforms allow users to compare ticket prices across multiple airlines, ensuring they can track fluctuations and secure the best deals. Setting up price alerts for preferred destinations can be a game-changer in this regard.
With popular Eid getaway spots like the Maldives, Istanbul, and London often experiencing price surges, travel experts suggest considering less-traveled destinations. Options such as Azerbaijan, Georgia, or Sri Lanka not only provide budget-friendly alternatives but also promise fewer crowds, further enhancing the holiday experience.
According to the report, travelers should also be on the lookout for package deals offered by platforms like Expedia and Booking.com. Bundling flights and hotels can result in considerable savings compared to booking each component separately. Moreover, maximizing credit card rewards and airline loyalty programs can add to the overall savings, as frequent travelers can earn miles that can be redeemed for discounts or upgrades.
As Eid approaches, hotels across the Middle East and Southeast Asia are also extending their offerings with special promotions. Guests are encouraged to check directly with hotels or through travel aggregators to discover exclusive Eid deals as these opportunities can enhance the holiday experience.
For those planning their travel, a tip is to remain flexible with their travel dates. Adjusting departure by even a day or two can lead to significant cost variations. Traveling midweek or opting for off-peak times can often help avoid the highest fares, making it easier to celebrate Eid without straining the budget.
Meanwhile, in Shimla, India, a local controversy has embroiled Auckland House School following a circular aimed at junior students. The circular inadvertently sparked allegations of creating communal discord amidst the school community. Education Minister Rohit Thakur stepped in to refute these claims, labeling them as exaggerated and unfounded.
Thakur emphasized the importance of verifying facts before making judgments, particularly noting the school’s reputation for fostering communal harmony. He commented, "Today itself, I became aware of this matter through media reports. We will confirm the details, as the school being named is a well-established, reputed convent institution here."
The school clarified that the circular was an invitation for students to celebrate Eid by wearing traditional attire—a small cap and Kurta Pajama—on March 2nd. They denounced the allegations spread via social media as misleading and inflammatory. Their longstanding tradition of celebrating diverse cultural and religious festivals was reiterated, aiming to promote empathy, understanding, and respect among all students.
In their statement, the Auckland House School administration condemned efforts to distort their multicultural events as political propaganda. They urged the public to act responsibly, especially on social media, to prevent harm to community harmony. “Auckland House School remains firmly committed to the values enshrined in the Constitution and the ideals of unity in diversity,” they stated confidently.
As the social environment grows increasingly complex, the role of responsible digital conduct is coming under scrutiny. These events underline the imperative need for people to engage in ethical behavior, particularly when disseminating information that could disrupt social peace.
Over in Tangerang, Indonesia, a 54-year-old bus driver named Hendrik is making sacrifices in pursuit of his livelihood as he prepares for the Eid holiday. Unable to return home to Banyuwangi to celebrate with his family due to work commitments, Hendrik’s story illustrates the personal costs often associated with essential jobs during peak holiday seasons.
"You can go home after Eid. Usually D+3 just comes home. You'll be back around April 7-8, 2025,” Hendrik shared during an interview, expressing resignation toward his job’s demands.
Hendrik explained that as a freelance bus driver, his earnings depend entirely on his work schedule. "If I don't come in, I won’t be paid. So I choose to work first; if there is money, I’ll go home," he remarked, indicating the tough choices many workers face during festive seasons.
Despite the increased demand for transportation during Eid, Hendrik's daily pay remains constant, reflecting the challenges many drivers grapple with during busy times. "If you go home, pay is still the same," he concluded grimly.
In a more festive spirit, the Jean Augustine Secondary School is gearing up for its Third Annual Eid Celebration Extravaganza, scheduled for April 3rd, 2025. This event promises to unite the community in celebration and honor the end of Ramadan.
Scheduled from 6 PM to 8 PM, the extravaganza will highlight an impressive lineup of Muslim-owned businesses from Brampton, aiming to create a vibrant Eid bazaar filled with performances, various vendors, delicious food, and inspiring guest speakers.
As organizers express excitement over overhead participation, they invite local vendors to join in and showcase their offerings, turning this year’s celebration into a memorable event. Attendees are encouraged to RSVP through social media, supporting a shared sense of community during this festive season.
This varied tapestry of celebrations and cultural acknowledgments paints a positive picture as communities look towards the future, blending traditional values with modern practices and promoting unity across cultures.
