Hayırlı Ramazanlar!

This year, April 2 to May 2 is Ramadan, the ninth and most sacred month of the Islamic calendar. I've mostly known it as the time when Muslims around the world fast from sunrise to sunset. But my guest this week explains why it's so much more than that.

Sevde is from the Center for Cross-Cultural Communication, a group of volunteers that offers workshops and tours to better understand Turkish and Muslim culture. She invited me to their beautiful historic mansion just behind Suleymaniye Mosque and told me how Ramadan can be a celebration for people of all backgrounds -- though there are some things that non-fasters should maybe be more conscientious of during this period. For example, try to restrain your midnight rooftop karaoke sessions...

The center holds lots of interesting events throughout the year, including iftar dinners during Ramadan and even tours to join in Friday prayers at Suleymaniye Mosque. Just drop them a line or better yet, knock on their door. I can vouch that they are very friendly and welcoming!