Kiyonah shared her experiences in Colombia, South Korea, and Malaysia. She also dished what she knows best as a New Yorker, especially how to spend Ramadhan in NYC

Speaking of relatability. 

Some of you maybe would relate more to Kiyonah’s journey, considering the various backgrounds that we all have. 

In this Journeys LIVE, Kiyonah has shared with us a couple of travel gems that might be more relatable to you. Plus, it has showcased to us a much more grey world view (the world is not black and white!)

It is important that conversations from diverse Muslimah are being shared because we come from different worldview.

Activities for MSTers Post-LIVE (with lessons from it);

1. Go for Destinations that are friendly to YOUR budget.

This can be a deal-breaker to your trip planning because the bulk of your budget goes to accommodation and transportation. And being Muslim woman, we barely have choices in comparison to non-Muslims.

While these days it has been better alhamdullilah with standard capsules, and airbnb (does anybody realize that airbnb these days cost the same as a hotel?).

Listen to the LIVE replay to know what Kiyonah think is budget-friendly.

2. Prepare your Mindset when traveling alone to Muslim-minority destinations

A reality that we all (but particularly those who come from Muslim-majority countries) have to accept is that not every country in this world would provide ease of access to masjid or prayer rooms, or ladies-only section in coaches or trains.

Different countries have its own rules, regulations and customs.

Going to Muslim-majority destinations would absolutely be easier in sha Allah, but when it comes to Muslim-minority destinations, it is important to be prepared knowing that these services might not be as accessible as you think.

3.  Have Patience when interacting with the locals

Travel would either come as a dream come true, or as a shock to you, because maybe what you initially thought of a destination was idealized, different than what is experienced in reality.

“Travel is important because that is when we truly would know how a society truly is,” as what Dani said, the Muslimah Tour Guide that led our Meet Up in Singapore. 

Kiyonah mentioned that one of the challenges that she faced as a Niqabi was getting past that first impression (which can be, stereotypical). But she was patient, because she knew that in evidently her personality would shine through regardless of the niqab. 

If you’re a niqabi, you don’t want to miss out on what Kiyonah has shared in the LIVE replay as it would maybe resonate more to you.

Have patience with the locals when there’s a tension in interacting. Perhaps more gentle awareness can break the ice.

4. Effective Travel = Utilize Your FREE Visa to the fullest!

Another hack to go on budget, and do more travel experiences is to leave the country upon the end of your visa term.

Like how Kiyonah did and somehow ended up in Malaysia’s Kota Kinabalu, upon a cheap flight she found!