As the end of Ramadan grows nearer, Muslims around the world prepare for the jubilant celebration of Eid al-Fitr on the 15th of June, 2018.

In approaching this occasion, what preparation is needed to ensure that adherents enter its celebration on the right note and in the right spirit?

Our blog this week dives into the customs and practices on the days preceding Eid – a time of great joy and anticipation for its celebrants around the world.

Preparations in the home

As with any major religious or cultural festival, on the days preceding the end of the fasting period, Muslims get their house ready for one of the most important religious festivals of the year.

Beyond just cleaning and arranging, some decorate their homes with lights and candles to signify the joy of this period. Many prepare their homes for massive meals and celebrations. If you’re planning a lavish event for close friends and family, ensure your home is child-proofed to protect jubilant children who will be running around and celebrating this joyous festival.

In the process of cleaning and decorating, many donate unwanted household items to those less fortunate. Given that Ramadan is a time of simplicity, compassion, and introspection, giving to those in need is a key part of the preparations preceding Eid.

Stocking up on gifts

Given the celebratory nature of the occasion, gift-giving is a popular practice during Eid al-Fitr.

When visiting family and friends or having them over at home, many present gifts which add to the harmony and kinship of this festival. Presenting children with eidi (money) is also a common practice and is considered a sign of goodwill. While there is no hard-and-fast rule about what can be gifted, popular items include gift baskets filled with traditional treats and goodies, pictures and ornaments with stunning Arabic calligraphy, money, and the like. Some also give out rations such as rice, barley, and other staples for families not as fortunate to celebrate lavishly on this occasion.

In this process, many also splurge on new clothing for themselves and their families. Given the significance of the event, families deck themselves in their finest and enter this day looking like nothing short of royalty.

Meal preparation

Another significant part of Eid al-Fitr is its lavish meals. Given the end of a period of austere eating, Muslims around the world go all-out in their meal preparation on the days preceding the festival.

Many start the day with dates, couscous, bread and honey, or seviyan, a special type of noodles. Khurma is prepared using these noodles, after boiling them and serving it as a milky, soupy pudding. This is a breakfast that’s popular in predominantly South-Asian countries.

Other traditional treats include Kahk al Eid, which is made of flour, sugar, butter, and milk. Here, the ingredients are combined and rolled into little balls, into which filling is then added. Once this is done, they are re-rolled and baked until crispy and golden. When visiting each other, families often eat and exchange these delightful, sugary cookies. Other types of treats include kheer, baklava, and kanafeh. All of this is, of course, in addition to other popular dishes including the world-famous biriyani.

Personal transformations

In the process of preparing for this occasion, most people believe that the most important part is preparing one’s heart and mind for the close of Ramadan. Many pray and make amends for any wrong done and approach the end of fasting with a sense of gratitude for the many blessings bestowed upon them. Above all, the gratitude of being able to witness yet another Ramadan is one that ranks particularly high for most individuals.

Final thoughts

Ramadan never fails to bring out the spirituality and perseverance among its many celebrants.

In ending this period of fasting, preparation for Eid takes place with great love and devotion. Among the many activities individuals undertake in their homes and kitchens, reflecting on the lessons learned during this holy period and putting them into practice, are easily the most important steps.

At Ceylon Exchange make your presence felt this Ramadan through our speedy money transfers. Contact us today for more information on our comprehensive range of services!

With the progress of time and technology, nowadays, it doesn’t take too much effort to send money abroad. Whether you’re sending money home to your loved ones or making transfers as a part of standard business activity, transfer options are as endless as the internet itself.

When you’re considering which service to go with, convenience and cost-efficiency are likely to be primary considerations. In this regard, doing a little bit of research into leading service providers can save you time, money, and effort.

Below, we will consider a few factors that need to be taken into consideration, when choosing a company through which you can send money abroad. The best companies undoubtedly offer all of the following by default.

• Inexpensive service

While there’s bound to be a certain level of fees charged by any service provider, these shouldn’t be excessive or deceptive. The internet is littered with accounts of consumers being ripped off through hidden fees that certain banks and companies fail to disclose at the beginning. This, undoubtedly, should not be the case.

Cost adds up, both, as a result of a currency’s exchange rate and a service provider’s transfer fees. If your company is operating with a fixed exchange rate, it’s best to check these figures before making a transaction, as a floating exchange rate may be more cost-efficient for you. Further, make sure you’re clear on the exact fees and charges levied by your service provider, whether this is a specialised transfer company or your bank. That way, you can avoid shelling out money unnecessarily on charges that shouldn’t exist.

• Transfer options

It’s important to note that in different circumstances, the best way to send money abroad might not be your standard bank transfer. In emergency situations, cash pickup options or alternatives to this may come in handy, when you least expect it.

For that reason, make sure that the service you opt for, has a range of options from which you can choose that which is most convenient, in your circumstances. This way, you ensure that your needs are always met in the most convenient and cost-efficient manner possible.

• Excellent customer support

Money transfers can prove to be a little complex and confusing every now and then. For this reason, it is essential that your service provider is one that makes this process as smooth and hassle-free as possible.

Moreover, they also need to make this process as transparent as possible, helping you choose the most inexpensive option by paying attention to your individual needs. In large corporations, getting this personal touch is sometimes a difficult task. If you are, therefore, looking for a more hands-on approach or are a little confused as a first-time transferer, choosing service providers with excellent customer support is essential.

Check for reviews as well as customer testimonials before you decide on a transfer service to send money abroad.

• Quick service

Money transfers are often made in emergency situations, and in this context, speedy service is essential. In such situations, it’s best to contact your service provider and check what their recommendations are on the fastest way to send money abroad.

Companies that understand your needs and are committed to ensuring the best outcome for you will not just point you in the right direction. They will personally ensure your transfers are processed as fast as possible. Certain services are faster than others, by default, and may, therefore, cost more. Having your transfer agent guide you through these options and process will help you make the best decision in light of your circumstances.

Key Takeaways

There are many factors which set various service providers apart. The considerations set out above, however, are core requirements which any superior money transfer company needs to possess. If you want your needs met without any hassle or unnecessary expenditure, evaluating your service providers against these requirements is, therefore, essential.

Ultimately, don’t settle for any service that doesn’t serve you in the way you deserve. At Ceylon Exchange, our priority is to serve our customer’s needs and interests. Contact us today for seamless money transfers that won’t break your bank.

With the holy month of Ramadan finally upon us, for most believers in Australia, it is a time of sacrifice, piety and spirituality. Given the vibrancy of the multi-ethnic culture and communities in the country, what is it really like to spend this period of time in the land down under?

Our blog post this week takes an insider look for all those celebrating this blessed period of fasting and festival, yet another sign of the country’s rich religious and cultural endowment.

Read until the end for a surprise giveaway!

Fasting during the season

Given that Ramadan falls more or less during winter in Australia, this means that fasting hours are less for adherents in the country than for those abroad.

Despite the shorter hours, however, many still claim that the practice is no less challenging than for those celebrating abroad. Given that this period marks a time for spiritual introspection and prayer, Muslims around the country observe their religious practices and teachings with great diligence. While many practitioners of the faith return home for the season, many stay back in the country for a fundamentally different, yet no less rewarding, experience.

While more and more signs of religious sensitivity are manifesting within the Australian community, most workplaces, nonetheless, operate at regular hours during this time. This often means that anyone looking to make it on time for Iftar (break fast meal) and Tarawih (prayers after break fast), has found it to be a somewhat challenging undertaking.

Despite this, however, workplaces are reportedly growing more aware and attuned to the needs of their employees. This has meant that certain offices either excuse their Muslim staff or even close a little earlier than usual. Additionally, given that more and more mosques are being constructed due to the country’s growing Islamic population, individuals find it a little easier to find a place to pray and break fast close to work or university.

Celebrating Eid Al-Fitr

With the aforementioned growth in the Australian Muslim community, steps have been taken to spread the joy and festivities of the season with non-members as well. In 2017, Sydney witnessed a mini cultural explosion on Eid, when a street festival overflowing with sweetmeats and middle-eastern delicacies were prepared for all those who visited Haldon Street.

In 2016, for the first time in the country’s history, Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull hosted a momentous Eid feast at his residence, inviting all Muslim leaders of the country to attend.

If you’re looking to celebrate the holiday with a wide range of celebrants, there are a number of Eid festivals that are organised Australia-wide. Canberra is known to take a colourful approach to mark the occasion, through the organisation of a multi-cultural festival with attractions for both children and adults alike. Local events can be found without too much difficulty and is a promising sign of the undeniable cultural vibrancy of the country.

All in all?

Ramadan is a time of simplicity and peace for Muslims around the world. For those who find themselves in Australia during this holy month, it is a time unlike any other. Given the growing cultural appreciation surrounding Ramadan, many adherents find a home away from home, in the land down under.

If you reside in Australia and wish to send your wishes for the season to your family, our money transfer services are ideal for all your needs.

Given the abundance of joy and prosperity with which Eid is celebrated, we wish to give all our loyal customers a chance to win BIG this Ramadan.

If you’re up for winning a brand-new iPad, simply send money transfers of more than $200 during this period and take a stab at guessing how many dates we’ve got in our jar!*

Visit our giveaway page for more information on this exciting new offer!

*Terms and conditions apply

Due to the increasingly global nature of international trade and commerce, it’s no small surprise that money transfers are skyrocketing across the globe. While you may think that this practice exists only among established giants operating in the market, you’re very much mistaken.

According to data from the World Bank, over 60% of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) transfer money regularly.

In this context, cost-efficiency and convenience are primary considerations among owners and operators of these kinds of businesses. Further, given that many small-scale companies try to keep things uncomplicated, having to deal with banks and grapple with factors such as international conversion rates and fees, may seem a little daunting.

Keeping these things in mind, this blog aims to provide guidance and tips for SMEs to keep cost (and hassle!) down when they make their future money transfers.

• Watch out for hidden fees

One thing businesses and individuals need to be on the lookout for are for claims of zero or low fees. What often takes place is a company fixing their exchange rate at an exorbitant amount, to cover up for supposedly “low” or “zero fees”.

Inquire about such rates and compare them with the market rate or against live currency, before you transfer money. This is especially critical if transferring money overseas is a regular part of your business activity.

• Banks may not be the most cost-efficient option

As discussed in previous blog posts, while choosing banks may be a safe and secure option, especially for SMEs, this is most certainly not the cheapest choice out there. Especially when compared to specialised money transfer companies. It is estimated that banks charge up to 5% in hidden costs in the process of transferring money to accounts overseas.

In this context, you might be better off looking into other options, especially if you’re looking to send a significant sum of money. Online transfers through specialised transfer companies who offer alternatives such as cash pickups and direct bank deposits are particularly lucrative options. Certain services are up to 8 times cheaper than standard bank transfers!

• Send more, save more

Similar to buying items in bulk at a lower cost, making transfers work in the same way.

You can save up on fees and fluctuating transfer rates if you try to make all your international payments in one go. By doing so, you might even be able to save on transfer fees as certain companies waive these off, provided your transaction is big enough.

• Find out when currency exchange rates are at their optimum

It is a given fact that exchange rates determine just how much money you dish out for a transfer. It is, therefore, wise to keep tabs on international rates to decide on the best time to send money, especially if you’re keen to lower your long-term business costs.

If this poses too much of a hassle for busy SME owners, market-watching services are freely available to help with this decision. Given their specialised knowledge and constant monitoring of currency fluctuations, certain payment companies can send you constant updates and provide guidance on the best time to transfer money.

Key Takeaways

Money transfers have become an almost day-to-day phenomenon for many businesses, even those that are generally considered to be small players. In this process, keeping costs down is particularly critical for SMEs. While traditional transfer facilities are slow, rigid, and expensive, newer forms of online transfers have revolutionised the way in which this process takes place. Nonetheless, there are still more ways in which businesses can play smart and keep costs to a minimum.

By following the tips set out above, companies can be guaranteed they get the most for their buck, without breaking a sweat.

Travelling is often considered to be one of the better things in life. From the thrill and excitement of exploring a new city to the indulgent feasting that accompanies it, visiting new cities and countries makes life worth living.

In the process of planning holidays, however, one of the biggest downers is trying to stick to your (often limited) budget and still have a great time. Luckily, this doesn’t have to be as difficult as we make it out to be. Read below for some bona fide tips and tricks on how to save money on your next holiday!

• Travel at non-peak times

One of the biggest mistakes travellers can make is planning their holidays during peak tourist seasons. All those summer vacations you’ve probably planned? Yeah, that’s probably going to cost you. Planning your trips during off-peak periods will help you make massive savings not just on your flight ticket, but also on your accommodation. This way, you can be sure that you’re not paying extra due to increased demand.

Making even less drastic switches, such as booking your flight for the afternoon instead of the morning, can also help bring down cost.

• Airbnb > Hotels

Sure, hotels are more comfortable and luxurious. But, if you’re travelling on a budget and need to keep your expenses at a minimum, Airbnb is the way to go. Given its global and reputed nature, staying at vacation rentals is not just cheap, but also safe and clean.

If you’re still hung up about missing out on the luxuries of well-established hotels, why not just compromise and seek one of the more luxurious rentals, available in abundance, on Airbnb and similar platforms?

You can even save money by opting for travel packages offered by travel agencies. These generally provide for discounted hotel rates and travel packages, cutting down on your expected expenditure.

• Travel light

If you’re travelling on a budget airline, having overweight luggage can cost you dearly. Travelling light is not just hassle-free and convenient, but can save you spending unnecessarily on all those extra shorts and t-shirts you’re probably not going to wear anyway?

Carrying light luggage will also make it easier for you to get about from place to place, and even skip cabs and take public transport. Not only will this save you money, but also give you an authentic travel experience you won’t regret undertaking!

• AVOID PEAK TIMES (even for meals)

It’s a no-brainer that eating out for dinner usually costs more than any other meal. If you’re keen on dining a little fancy, breakfast and lunch will generally prove to be a cheaper option for you. This doesn’t necessarily mean that you need to miss out on all those local dishes you want to try out. You could either opt for street food (if this is available), food courts or everyday cafes for the rest of your meals. Save money sure, but don’t miss out on local treats!

• Avoid splurging on clothing, accessories, and shoes (basically anything that can be brought back home)

Cutting down on expenses for your entire trip just to spend it on a shopping spree, seems…wrong. Instead of splurging on items that can be purchased at home, or more cheaply online, is a waste, especially since you could use that to travel to more locations around the country you visit, or on unique experiences. Practising some restraint will reward you with experiences time and decay can’t take away from you!

Key Takeaways

Travelling on a budget doesn’t have to be a cause for despair. Cutting down on expenses isn’t necessarily a compromise on the quality of your experience; merely a re-prioritisation of your expenses, if you will. Switching the timing of your vacation or choosing a vacation rental over a hotel, will simply free up your finances for other longer-lasting experiences during your holiday. Get planning and start saving! Adventure awaits.

Moving homes across countries can be stressful. It doesn’t matter if you’re leaving for work, school or even a more long-term settlement; moving is still stressful. While very little can be done to detract from this universal fact, moving to countries that are welcoming and play home to people belonging to various nationalities and cultures, can make the process less stressful. Welcome to Australia!

Apart from more immediate concerns such as settling down in your new home, other incidental concerns are bound to be on your mind. How does public transport work? Healthcare? What are the best cultural events to hit up? Fortunately, this blog aims to provide answers to all your questions. Read on and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime in the land down under!

Public Transport

If you’re not looking to purchase a car as you enter the country, fortunately, country-wide public transport is top notch. This includes trams, buses, train, ferries and a range of taxi services. While certain services such as ferries and trams depend on which region of the country you reside in, all Australian states possess well-functioning public transport systems. Most regions have their own transport websites, which provide timetables, fares, and other relevant information sufficient to plan excursions around your city. There’s also a range of domestic airlines available to fly across the country, for slightly longer journeys.

The link below contains the links to the transport websites for each of the Australian territories. Take the anxiety out of venturing out your front door in a foreign city with a well-planned itinerary! https://bit.ly/2GJEdH6

Healthcare

While all those who enter the country are required to possess a certain level of private insurance, public healthcare is accessible to anyone who needs it. While the public healthcare in the country ranks high at the global level, it’s natural to encounter waiting lists and other things common to public hospitals. Additionally, facilities may vary across urban and rural hospitals and institutions, meaning that you may have to travel into the city for certain services and treatments.

Medicare, the government supported healthcare system, is available for Australian citizens and many of those possessing Permanent Residency (PR) status. The scheme covers treatment in public hospitals and also offers complete or partial coverage of certain medical expenses.

Either way, whichever type of visa you possess or medical service you opt for, Australian healthcare is one on which you can rely and place your confidence in.

Education

If you’re moving to Australia with your family in tow, education is often the number one priority upon entering the country. Most citizens and expats send their children to public schools, given the high quality of education and lower costs involved.

While this is free for citizens and those with PR, temporary citizens are required to pay a fixed tuition fee set by the state. Children attend schools based on the catchment zone they reside in. Therefore, looking into the public schools in the area you decide to move to, is important. Private, faith-based international schools and institutions are also an option, however, these involve a higher fee compared to public schools.

Entertainment

One thing you’ll never have to worry about when moving to Australia is how to keep yourself entertained. From the Grand Prix to its top-notch bars and clubs, and idyllic coastal villages straight out of travel postcards, Australia is a dream come true. If you find yourself in the country and are looking for something to do, a quick internet search alone is enough to point you in the right direction. The locals are also very friendly and are sure to point you in the right direction based on your preferences and interests.

To conclude…

All in all, moving to Australia for the fulfilment of your aspirations, is in general, a wise choice. Whether you’re going alone or with your family, life here is comfortable. Once you live in Australia, nothing else feels the same. Prepare for the life of your dreams, in the land down under!

Sending an international transfer? It’s not so hard to get the most out of it – here are our top tips to keep in mind.

Get the recipient details right
Check you have all the details correct. You’ll need to have the right information about the recipient in order for them to safely receive the transfer, Incorrect information can cause delays – and headaches!

Get a handle on exchange rates
Be aware of the daily fluctuations in the rate and make sure you’re happy to send with today’s offered rate. Even small variances can cause significant differences in overall costs and affordability. Not to mention, different providers will offer different rates.

Be aware of fees
We often think of exchange rates as the primary “cost” of a money transfer, but different service providers have different fee schedules per transfer. Make sure you understand how much will added in fees before you pay.

Select your money transfer provider carefully
There’s a wide choice of methods and providers these days, from banks to services like PayPal, to specialist money transfer companies. Take the time to research one you are comfortable with in regard to their reputation, customer service and fees. At Ceylon Exchange we take pride in looking after our customers as well as getting the best rates in the business. Consider us for your money transfer needs, and we think we’ll be your provider of choice!

So you’re ready to make your international transfer. You’ve selected your service and signed up. What details do you need to make the transfer? Here’s our quick guide.

You must be able to provide:
   • Name of recipient
   • Their account name
   • Their home address
   • The recipient account number
   • And, last but not least, their bank details. Bank name, branch, and branch address. You’ll also need to identify the bank with the SWIFT or BIC code – this is a unique code for each financial institution. For Indian institutions, the equivalent is the IFSC code. Don’t know the recipient’s SWIFT or BIC code? Don’t worry, your transfer service provider will be able to help you with those details.
Further details you’ll need are:
   • The currency you’re choosing to send
   • The amount in that currency
   • The purpose of the transfer

With these details at hand, your international money transfer will be on the way safely and promptly. At Ceylon Exchange, we specialise in these services and are ready to help you with any step along the way.

Need to send money to loved ones abroad? It’s so common in our interconnected global world these days. Perhaps for special expenses or to give a helping hand. Whatever the reason, you’ll need to find the best way to get the money to them. That means a service that is easy, reliable and offers low rates and fees. Specialist money transfer companies such as Ceylon Exchange are set up specifically to provide services for overseas transfer for individuals and businesses. Compared to using a bank, specialist services will generally have lower transfer fees and more favorable exchange rates.

To send money to your loved ones, the process is as follows:
   1. Locate your transfer service of choice
   2. Register your account
   3. Get a quote for exchange rates and applicable fees
   4. Provide the details of the recipient
   5. Enter and confirm the details of the transaction – check all rates and fees
   6. Pay and initiate the transfer
   7. Finally, track and confirm your transfer.

While you can’t avoid fees, a more important factor is the exchange rate which varies from day to day. Keep an eye on it and you may be able to save when transferring your money – and that means more will reach your loved ones overseas.