“When you wear a scarf you are a visual representation of Islam,” says Saudi travel blogger Esra Alhamal, who wears the Islamic headscarf, the hijab, and identifies as a “hijabi”. “You need to be even nicer than your usual self just to give an even nicer message. That can be exhausting sometimes.”

Alhamal presents the travel segment on The Lifestyle Show, which airs on English-language Shia Islamic channel Ahlulbayt TV. Born in Saudi Arabia, the 29-year-old PhD student also writes the travel blog DesignerEsra.com and has lived in the UK for seven years. But due to political tensions, Alhamal feels she is seen as a representative for Muslims when she travels – whether she likes it or not.

The current climate means Alhamal often feels forced to consider her destinations in a way that non-Islamic travellers don’t need to. When headed to countries where she fears she may not be safe, Alhamal will pack hats and head wraps to cover her hair so she is less visibly Muslim.

MORE:     http://www.independent.co.uk/travel/news-and-advice/hijab-travel-blogger-esra-alhamal-islamophobia-muslim-backpacking-racism-customs-experiences-a7598291.html