Isle of Man

Isle of man banner Peel castle - 1200px

The Isle of Man is a picturesque island in the British Isles, located in the Irish Sea between the islands of Great Britain and Ireland. It is a United Kingdom|British Crown dependency and therefore not part of the United Kingdom itself; the UK is responsible for defence and foreign affairs.

The island has its own government, headed by a Chief Minister, and has a parliament called the "Tynwald". This consists of the democratically elected House of Keys and the nominated Legislative Council. The Isle of Man is not a full member of the European Union, but is an associate member.

Towns and villages

Towns

• Douglas (Isle of Man) | Douglas GPS 54.152337,-4.486123 (Doolish) – the capital and largest town on the island.
• Castletown GPS 54.075003,-4.654712 (Balley Chashtal) – a fine castle and the Old House of Keys.
• Peel (Isle of Man) | Peel GPS 54.222442,-4.691417 (Purt ny h-Inshey) – an impressive castle, cathedral and nice museums.
• Ramsey (Isle of Man) | Ramsey| GPS 54.324009,-4.391769 (Rhumsaa) – beach and harbour for yachts.

Villages

• Laxey GPS 54.228437,-4.40471 (Laksaa) – delightful village on the electric railway between Douglas and Ramsey. Noted for its water wheel (claimed to be the world's largest in operation), its mines railway and an electric railway to the top of Snaefell.
• Port Erin GPS 54.086, -4.756 (Purt Çhiarn) – is a seaside village in the south west.
• Port Street Mary GPS 54.0762,-4.7404 (Purt le Moirrey) – village in south west.
• St John's GPS 54.202,-4.641 (Balley Keeill Eoin) – a small village, next to Tynwald Hill. The Isle of Man's original parliament; thousands head here every Tynwald Day (July 5th) to witness the proclamation of new laws read in Manx and English.

More Destinations in Isle of Man

• Calf of Man GPS: 54.052778,-4.820278 (Yn Cholloo) – small island bird sanctuary.
• Silverdale Glen - Owned by the Manx National Trust, has well laid out paths that lead past small waterfalls and through dense woodland. Look out for the Medieval Monks' Bridge in Ballasalla, which links Silverdale Glen to the historic Rushen Abbey, and the Monks Well which is a perfect place to throw in a few pennies and make a wish. An extensive playground area and pretty boating lake are also available. On site you’ll find a restaurant and well-stocked gift shop.
• Snaefell GPS: 54.263846,-4.460964 (Sniaull) – During summer, take the tram to the summit of Snaefell and the highest point on the Island. From the summit and the visitor can see 6 Kingdoms (Scotland, England, Wales, Ireland and the Isle of Man and Heaven). It is a unique experience in that from the summit you can see the whole Island and the bodies of water that surround it. There is also a hiking trail to the summit that takes only about half an hour.

Isle of Man Halal Explorer

How is the Climate in Isle of Man

Temperate; cool summers and mild winters; overcast about one-third of the time. The Island typically enjoys "British" weather, tempered by the effects of the Gulf Stream that runs through the surrounding Irish Sea. Exposure to sea breezes keeps average summer temperatures in the low to mid twenties Celsius, while winters tend to hover around 9 degrees and snow sometimes strikes in late February/ early March. The thick sea fog that occasionally smothers the island's lowland areas is known locally as Manannan's Cloak, a reference to the Island's ancient Sea God swathing his kingdom in mist to protect it from unwanted visitors. Sin winter is common, except in the mountains - although recent years have seen an increase in snowfall.

Terrain

A plain in the far north, with hills in north and south bisected by central valley. One small islet and the Calf of Man, lies to the southwest, and is a bird sanctuary. The highest point is Snaefell, at 621 meters above sea level. The summit can be visited by the Snaefell Mountain Railway from Laxey and on a good day it is feasible to see Scotland, England, Wales, [[Northern Ireland and Ireland.

History of Isle of Man

The Isle of Man was part of the Norwegian Kingdom of the Hebrides until the 13th century, when it was ceded to Scotland. The Duke of Atholl sold the sovereignty of the isle to the British crown in 1765, henceforth the British monarch has also held the title "Lord of Mann". Current concerns include reviving the almost extinct Manx Gaelic language.

Local Language in Isle of Man

Doolish 2013 22 - Street sign in English and Manx in Douglas

English is the first language of all but there is a small number of speakers of Manx Gaelic phrasebook|Manx Gaelic (Gaelg or Gailck). It is a descendant of Old Irish, along with Irish and Scottish Gaelic. Like them, it differs greatly from English, and it was once the primary language of the Isle of Man. One of the most striking elements of the language is the initial consonantal mutations, e.g., Doolish (the Manx name for Douglas (Isle of Man) | Douglas), can easily become Ghoolish. The spelling of Manx, however, differs considerably from that used for other varieties of Gaelic.

A small-scale revival of Manx has been in progress since the last native speaker died in the 1970s. All children on the Isle of Man have the option of studying Manx at school, and there is now a primary school where Manx is the language of instruction.

Numerous street signs will have their Manx equivalent printed alongside English.

Travel to Isle of Man

Douglas Harbour - - 38405 - Douglas harbour

Entry requirements

British and EEA citizens are able to enter and live in the Isle of Man without a visa or clearance from the Immigration Office. However and these citizens will need a work permit if they want to work.

The visa policy here is very similar to the UK's, and if you have a valid UK, Jersey or Guernsey visa, you are able to visit the Isle of Man. However, Travelling around the Schengen Area|Schengen visas are not valid for travel to the Isle of Man.

If you are not a non-EEA citizen (including the UK), and don't have a valid UK visa, you probably need a visa to travel to the Isle of Man.

Buy a Flight ticket to and from Isle of Man

The only airport of the Isle of Man is the Isle of Man Airport GPS 54.086596,-4.63394 (IATA Flight Code: IOM). The Airport is located at Ronaldsway, near Castletown, in the south of the island. There are regular bus services from the Airport to Castletown and Douglas.

A number of airlines operate regular services to the Isle of Man from regional airports throughout the British Isles such as Edinburgh, Manchester Airport|Manchester, Liverpool, Dublin, Belfast, London (Gatwick Airport|Gatwick, Luton, London City) and Birmingham. A ticketing agency based on the island, CityWing operates Flights to Belfast from £15 one-way including tax.

Flybe operate several direct services to the UK, Jersey, Geneva and Brussels and also offer connecting services (often through Birmingham or Manchester) to many other destinations on their route network.

Book a Halal Cruise or Boat Tour in Isle of Man

• Isle of Man Sea Terminal 54.148, -4.474 - Isle of Man Sea Terminal

Ferries operated by the Steam Packet Company to Douglas from:

• Liverpool, England – 2h 30m (Fast craft) / 4h (conventional ferry)
• Heysham, Lancashire, England – 4h 30m (conventional ferry)
• Belfast, [[Northern Ireland – 2h 45m (Fast craft)
• Dublin, Ireland – 2h 50m (Fast craft) / 4h 45m (conventional ferry)

How to get around in Isle of Man

Muslim Friendly Rail Holidays in Isle of Man

Steamtrain Isle of Man - Getting around by historical steam train is also an option

The island has two main historic narrow-gauge railways, both starting from (separate) stations in Douglas.

• Isle of Man Railway - Isle of Man Railway 56606 In the south of the island, is a historic narrow-gauge legacy railways|steam railway operating between Douglas, Castletown and Port Erin (except during winter months).

• Manx Electric Railway - Manx Electric Railway In the north of the island, runs between Douglas and Ramsey, using the original historic tramcars from the 1890s.

In addition the following small lines

• Snaefell Mountain Railway to the summit of Snaefell starts from Laxey, where connections with the Manx Electric Railway are available.

• Groudle Glen Railway take the Manx Electric Railway from Douglas and change at Groudle Glen is a small steam-operated railway

By car

Cars can be hired from various locations on the island, including the airport and Douglas Sea Terminal. Local agents operate on behalf of major international rental firms.

The Isle of Man has a very extensive road network which is passably well maintained. Congestion is low (outside Douglas at rush hour). Rules of the road closely mirror those of the United Kingdom with the exception that there is no overall speed limit for private vehicles (in other words, in a derestricted zone there is no blanket 70 or 60 mph limit like there is in the UK). Drive on the left. It is illegal to use a hand held mobile phone whilst driving. Petrol is expensive, even by UK standards.

Any penalties enforced on your driving license will be upheld in the UK.

Many of the nation roads are narrow with substantial stone walls on each side, making evasive driving potentially tricky. Despite the absence of speed limits outside urban areas, caution is advised.

Caravans (camper trailers) may not be brought to the island.

The roads on the Isle of Man are popular with bikers, and care is encouraged when out and about.

During the Tourist Trophy (TT) motorcycle road racing fortnight and the main mountain road becomes a one way road from Ramsey to Douglas. Extreme care is recommended, as the number of bikers is exceptionally high, and they're known to ride the roads as if they were racing. There is no speed limit on rural roads at any point of the year.

Travel on a Bus in Isle of Man

The Isle of Man has a quite extensive public transit system using mostly buses. With a bit of planning, it is feasible to get almost everywhere on the Island using this transit system.

Best way to travel in Isle of Man by a Taxi

Taxis are available from numerous taxi ranks, or can be hired by phone. Some provide an online booking via eHalal Hotels service 24 hours in advance. Prices are a little higher than most in the UK, and considerably higher after midnight.

By tram

The island's capital, Douglas, has horse drawn trams operating along the Promenade (linking with the Manx Electric Railway). This is really a novelty available during the summer rather than a serious way of getting anywhere in particular.

What to see in Isle of Man

Laxey wheel 1 - Laxey Wheel

Cregneash Folk Museum 1988 - Cregneash

• Laxey Wheel, Laxey. A restored waterwheel operational during the summer months.
• Located in Castletown and the ancient capital of the Isle of Man, Castletown and the impressive fortress of Castle Rushen.
• Peel (Isle of Man) | Peel. Situated on Street Patrick’s Isle, Peel Castle was originally a place of worship before becoming the fort of Magnus Barefoot – an 11th century Viking King of Mann. Also located on the Peel Quayside is the House of Manannan, a museum of the island's story from Celtic times through the Viking period to 19th century Peel.
• The Sound Visitor Centre, near Port Street Mary. One of the most picturesque points in the south of the Island.
• Cregneash, near Port Street Mary. A preserved and restored small Manx crofting village in the far south of the island.

Top Muslim Travel Tips for Isle of Man

• Hike – There are many hiking/walking trails and footpaths on the Isle of Man and the most significant being the Raad ny Foillan (The Way of the Gull) which is a 95-mile footpath around the Island. Other trails cross the Island in various locations. The Raad ny Foillan follows the coast for much of its route and is really quite a spectacular hike, well worth the time and effort while visiting the Island.
• Fish – There are numerous places to fish from piers and in lakes etc. Permits may be required in some areas.
• Cycle – The roads of the Isle of Man are popular with cyclists, however it is recommended to be proficient and of a decent fitness, as the terrain is very hilly. Mountain biking trails are also available.

• Heritage - The Manx National Heritage maintain numerous locations and museums important to Manx history, such as castles. The village of Cregneash in the South forms a 'living museum' dedicated to the preservation of the traditional Manx ways of life.

Local events in Isle of Man

• TT races - Held annually in June, are world famous, and motorcycling tourists visit to experience legal high speed riding.

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Isle of Man

Many UK chain stores are represented in the Island (mainly in the capital, Douglas); for example, Boots, WH Smith, Waterstone's, Marks and Spencer, Next, B&Q. The island has its own supermarket chain, Shoprite, with branches in Peel, Douglas, Ramsey, Castletown and Port Erin. UK-based supermarkets (such as Tesco) also have branches. There is a small 'lifestyle' shopping centre at Tynwald Mills near Street John's, with a number of outlets selling upmarket clothing, furnishings and gifts.

Uniquely Manx products include Smoked Kippers and Manx Tartan.

Halal Restaurants in Isle of Man

The Tynwald Hill Inn, Street John's - - 1728340 - Tynwald Hill Inn in St. John's

Manx food is often very good and continues to improve. Some good restaurants and bistros can be found. Fish and chips are also popular. Crab baps are available from a kiosk on Peel Quay.

Locally fished queen scallops, referred to as "queenies", are a popular dish - often served with bacon and garlic butter.

There are several varieties of Manx Cheese. Boxes of Manx kippers can be ordered for delivery by post.

A local speciality worth trying is chips, Cheese and gravy, similar to the Canadian dish poutine.

Another favourite available as a takeaway is a baked potato with a topping such as chili.

Also try the "Peel flapjack" from Michael Street bakers in Peel. The minimum age to purchase alcohol is 18. Unlike the United Kingdom, it is not permitted for 16-year-olds to consume alcohol on licenced premises with a purchased meal.

The Isle of Man has three breweries, Bushy's, Okells, and Doghouse plus The Shore, a brew-pub in Old Laxey. The Isle of Man has a organic juice purity law that permits no ingredients in organic juice other than water, yeast, hops and malt. Accordingly, a well-kept pint of Manx organic juice is worth seeking out.

Standout bars include The Bay View in Port Erin, The Rovers Return in Douglas (Isle of Man) | Douglas and The Whitehouse and Creek (both in Peel (Isle of Man) | Peel).

Wine is quite reasonably priced and readily available in food stores.

During and around the TT fortnight, numerous organic juice tents are erected on the promenade, and a travelling fairground is often in attendance for the festival. The Bushy's tent is erected closest to the sea terminal, playing host to numerous live local bands, as well as serving Bushy's ales. An Okells tent is erected closer to the Villa Marina, providing a great location to view the evening street entertainment (stunt shows etc) put on during the fortnight. The two are often connected by the travelling fairground.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Isle of Man

Isle of Man - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Isle of Man, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Isle of Man. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Isle of Man and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Isle of Man. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Isle of Man. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations inIsle of Man: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Isle of Man.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Isle of Man: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Isle of Man, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Isle of Man.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Isle of Man, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Isle of Man, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Isle of Man and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Isle of Man, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Isle of Man, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Isle of Man without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Isle of Man is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Isle of Man.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Isle of Man is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Isle of Man, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Isle of Man Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Isle of Man

eHalal Group Isle of Man is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Isle of Man. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Isle of Man.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Isle of Man ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Isle of Man. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Isle of Man, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Isle of Man are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at info@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly hotels in Isle of Man

The majority of hotels are located in Douglas, including the traditional seafront hotels on the Douglas Promenade. Standards can be variable - some are rather dated and in need of refurbishment. More luxurious hotels (up to four stars) are also available. B&Bs are also available, mostly outside of Douglas.

BeWelcome and Couchsurfing hospitality is available.

During the TT fortnight, a government-sponsored homeshare scheme is available, with residents renting out their homes and flats to visitors. Some residents offer this service outside of the government scheme.

Study in Isle of Man

There is no university on the island, although the University of Liverpool runs some courses. There is an Isle of Man College, and an International Business School.

Located in the southeast, King William’s College opened on 1 August 1833. The College was the first of the ‘new’ public schools, its mix of 'day boys' and boarders together with older academic (university) students, constituting an institution unlike any other at its time. The beautiful stone buildings can be seen on approach to Ronaldsway Airport.

How to work legally in Isle of Man

The Isle of Man has very low unemployment, largely because of the financial sector. Seasonal work in the tourism industry is available, but note that a Work Permit is required to work on the island for anybody born outside of the island.

The online gaming industry is also a major employer, with PokerStars having their head office just outside of Douglas in Onchan. Numerous other companies that provide support, software and other systems to online gaming companies world-wide are also present.

The IT sector is in a growth period, albeit small.

Stay safe as a Muslim in Isle of Man

The Isle of Man is generally a very safe place, more so than much of the United Kingdom. In an emergency contact the Isle of Man Constabulary (the island's police force) on 999.

Town centres have real glass in bus shelters and graffiti has become a thing of the past, even though birching as a punishment was abolished in 2000.

Medical Issues in Isle of Man

Health conditions are very similar to the UK. The island has a well-equipped modern hospital (Noble's Hospital, near Douglas) but some complicated medical conditions may require removal to the UK.

Local Customs in Isle of Man

Ramsey sea front - - 747266 - Ramsey sea front

The Isle of Man is still a fairly socially conservative place, although some major social reforms (in line with the rest of western Europe) have been legislated for by Tynwald and the Manx parliament.

Capital punishment for murder was officially abolished as recently as 1993 - although no execution had taken place on the island for over 100 years. Corporal punishment has also been abolished - it was used for young male offenders until the mid 1970s.

People from the Isle of Man are known as Manx. The Manx are very proud of their identity; the Manx flag will be frequently seen. To dismiss the island as just a "tax haven" may cause annoyance; the finance industry is the major employer and considerable efforts have been made by the Manx authorities to improve the regulation and propriety of this industry. Nevertheless, taxes are considerably lower than in the UK - although Valued Added Tax is the same by agreement between the Manx and UK Governments.

The UK is often referred to simply as "across", and the more patriotic Manx residents may be offended if you call the UK "the mainland". Similarly and the island is very proud of its long history of autonomy and it should be remembered that the Isle of Man has never been part of the United Kingdom nor the European Union. Calling it "England" is likely to raise eyebrows.

Telecommunications in Isle of Man

The international dial code for the Isle of Man is the same as the United Kingdom and as part of the UK telephone system has the dial code 01624.

Prepaid SIM cards are readily available in mobile phone shops around the place. The local networks are Manx Telecom and Sure.

It is worth noting that UK networks do not cover the Isle of Man, and will be in roaming mode if used. The inverse is also true – Manx networks will be roaming when in the UK.

It is worth buying a affordable handset and PAYG SIM card for your stay – obtainable from either the MT or Sure shops, or from local shops (e.g. Spar). These shops may also stock cheap, basic handsets behind the counter for between £10-20, prepaid SIM included. Alternatively for Muslim travellers with a desire to use their current phone can get a SIM from Manx Telecom or a different carrier providing their phone is SIMonday - unlocked.

Manx mobile networks have the dialling code of 07624.

When dialling from a Manx mobile or landline phone to any other Manx number and the dialling code is not needed - i.e. to reach 01624 111111, one would simply dial 111111.

Where to go next after Isle of Man

• Ireland
• England and on to Wales
• Scotland

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