Hahnemann Blog

Category: Tours

  • From the Ottoman Empire to the Holy Land: Why Your Next Umrah Should Start in Turkey

    From the Ottoman Empire to the Holy Land: Why Your Next Umrah Should Start in Turkey

    The Best of Both Worlds

    Why choose between a holiday and a pilgrimage when you can have both?

    For many Singaporean Muslims, the “Umrah Plus” package is the ultimate journey. It allows you to explore the rich history of the Islamic Caliphate in Turkey, enjoy the cool Mediterranean weather and shopping, and then proceed to Makkah and Madinah with a refreshed heart for your Ibadah.

    At Hahnemann Travel, our Istanbul + Bursa + Umrah tour is designed to take you on a journey through time—from the glories of the Ottoman Empire to the birthplace of Islam.

    Here is what you can expect on this spectacular dual journey.

    Stop 1: Istanbul – The City of Minarets

    Your journey begins in Istanbul, the only city in the world that straddles two continents (Europe and Asia).

    • The Spiritual Connection: We visit the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. Standing inside these architectural marvels reminds us of the power and reach of Islamic history.
    • The Holy Relics: A highlight for many is the Topkapi Palace. Here, in the Chamber of Holy Relics, you can view the belongings of Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.), including his sword, bow, and mantle. It is the perfect spiritual preparation before heading to Madinah.
    • The Shopping: Of course, no trip is complete without a visit to the Grand Bazaar. Whether you are looking for prayer rugs, saffron, or Turkish delight, this is a shopper’s paradise.

    Witnessing the legacy of the Caliphate before heading to the Holy Land.

    Stop 2: Bursa – The Green City

    After the bustle of Istanbul, we travel to Bursa, the first capital of the Ottoman Empire.

    Known as “Green Bursa” for its parks and surrounding mountains, this city offers a calmer, more serene atmosphere.

    • Ulu Cami (Grand Mosque): You will pray in this incredible 14th-century mosque, famous for the large fountain located inside the prayer hall directly under a skylight.
    • Koza Han (Silk Market): Bursa was the end of the Silk Road in the west. We visit the historic silk market where you can find high-quality silk scarves—perfect gifts for family back in Singapore.
    • The Food: Don’t forget to try the original Iskender Kebab, which was invented right here in Bursa!

    Stop 3: The Ultimate Destination (Makkah & Madinah)

    After soaking in the history and cool weather of Turkey, we board our flight to Jeddah.

    There is a beautiful shift in mindset here. You have enjoyed the sightseeing, the kebabs, and the shopping. Now, you put on your Ihram. The “tourist” becomes the “pilgrim.”

    Many of our travelers find that having a few days to relax in Turkey first helps them arrive in Saudi Arabia feeling rested and ready to focus 100% on their Umrah rituals.

    • Seamless Logistics: Flying via Turkish Airlines often allows for a smooth connection. As always, your Hahnemann Mutawwif is with you every step of the way, managing the transition from Turkey to Saudi so you don’t have to worry about luggage or visas.

    One Ticket, Two Journeys

    This package is perfect for families who want to expose their children to Islamic history, or for couples looking for a meaningful getaway.

    You get the breathtaking scenery of Europe/Asia and the spiritual rewards of the Holy Land, all in one trip.

    Interested in our Umrah Plus Turkey packages?
    These slots fill up fast, especially during school holidays!

    📞 Call/WhatsApp: +65 6749 1131
    🌐 Check Availability: 15D Istanbul + Bursa + Umrah

  • Journey to the Jewel of the Silk Road: Why Uzbekistan Should Be Your Next Halal Destination

    Journey to the Jewel of the Silk Road: Why Uzbekistan Should Be Your Next Halal Destination

    A Step Back in Time

    Close your eyes and imagine the tales of the 1001 Nights. Caravans of camels carrying silk and spices. Scholars debating under turquoise domes. Cities made of gold and blue tiles.

    This isn’t a fairy tale. This is Uzbekistan.

    For centuries, this land was the heart of the Great Silk Road, the bridge between East and West. But for the Muslim traveler, Uzbekistan is more than just a trade route—it is a spiritual homecoming to a land of giants.

    At Hahnemann Travel, we have seen a surge in interest for this Central Asian gem, and it is easy to see why. Here is what awaits you on the Ancient Silk Road.

    1. Walking in the Land of Scholars

    As Singaporean Muslims, we grow up learning the Hadiths. But did you know that one of the greatest compilers of Hadith, Imam Al-Bukhari, was born here?

    On our tour, we visit his magnificent memorial complex near Samarkand. It is a place of immense peace (Sakinas). To stand by the resting place of the man who preserved the words of our Prophet (S.A.W.) is a moving experience that brings many of our travelers to tears.

    We also explore the legacy of Imam Al-Maturidi and the great scientists like Ulugh Beg (the astronomer king). This trip proves that Islamic history is not just about battles; it is about brilliance, science, and art.

    Paying respects to the great scholar, Imam Al-Bukhari.

    2. The Turquoise Cities: Samarkand & Bukhara

    No photo can prepare you for the scale of the architecture here.

    • Samarkand: The “Rome of the East.” You will stand in the Registan Square, surrounded by three massive Madrasahs covered in millions of mosaic tiles. It is arguably one of the most beautiful squares in the world.
    • Bukhara: This city feels like a museum without a roof. The entire old city is a UNESCO World Heritage site. You will walk through ancient trading domes where merchants still sell carpets, knives, and spices, just as they did 500 years ago.

    3. A Halal Foodie’s Paradise

    One of the biggest worries when traveling to non-Arab countries is food. Is it Halal? Is it Muslim-friendly?

    In Uzbekistan, you can leave those worries behind. As a majority Muslim country, Halal food is the standard.

    Get ready to feast on:

    • Uzbek Plov: The national dish of aromatic rice, tender lamb, carrots, and raisins cooked in giant cauldrons (Osh).
    • Shashlik: Juicy, charcoal-grilled meat skewers.
    • Samarkand Bread: Famous golden-crusted bread that tastes like nothing else on earth.

    With Hahnemann, we ensure all your meals are taken care of, so you can eat to your heart’s content.

    4. Travel with Comfort and Ease

    While the Silk Road sounds rugged, your journey doesn’t have to be. Uzbekistan has modernized rapidly. We utilize the Afrosiyob (high-speed train) to zip between cities in comfort, cutting travel time significantly.

    And of course, being a Muslim-friendly tour, we factor in prayer times. whether it’s stopping at a historic mosque or ensuring time for Jamak prayers, your spiritual obligations are never compromised.

    Discover the Silk Road with Hahnemann

    Uzbekistan is safe, clean, and incredibly welcoming to tourists. It is the perfect blend of adventure, history, and spirituality.

    Don’t just read about history—walk through it. Join our next group departure to the Great Silk Road.

    Ready for an adventure?
    Check our upcoming travel dates for Uzbekistan.

    📞 Call/WhatsApp: +65 6749 1131
    🌐 View Itinerary: Uzbekistan Package