It has been a tradition for the Acehnese to spend the eve of Ramadhan at the beach or other tourist destinations. Meanwhile, during the fasting month, they are absent from the region’s beaches and mountains.
Hundreds of people coming from across Aceh province were seen at Ujong Blang beach, Banda Sakti village, Lhokseumawe, on Wednesday.
It has been a tradition for the Acehnese to spend the eve of Ramadhan at the beach or other tourist destinations. Meanwhile, during the fasting month, they are absent from the region’s beaches and mountains.
Kompas.com reported that one returning visitor, Nazaruddin, took his family to Ujong Blang beach every year.
“Tomorrow [Thursday], we fast. My children won’t be able to go to the beach as they will be focusing on religious activities,” Nazar said.
Despite the cloudy weather on Wednesday, the beach was crowded. By late afternoon, more visitors had arrived. They swam, indulged in grilled corn or sat on the sand to take in the view of the Indian Ocean.
Another visitor, Nur Masyitah from Bireuen regency, said she came to the beach to enjoy a different atmosphere.
Bireuen is about an hour’s motorcycle ride from Lhokseumawe. The beach is relatively easy to reach, through a wide road with ample parking space. Food vendors offer light refreshments at relatively low prices.
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Despite the cloudy skies, it did not rain that day, allowing visitors to enjoy their pre-Ramadhan leisure time to their hearts’ content. (mut)
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