Banning the Burkini: Thoughts

France has recently banned he burkini, which is the Islamic full-body swimsuit. This item of clothing is not intended to be a hostile threat, rather it allows females who chose to wear the hijab to also enjoy the leisure activity of swimming. Muslim women wear it is to maintain modesty, but some non-Muslims wear it to protect themselves from the sun. This new legislation has sparked a controversial debate among people. This law was first passed in Cannes, as it has been said to be a health hazard and does not follow French values. Anyone who wishes to disregard this law will be fined, asked to change or leave the beach. However, the debate is whether this ban is secularism or security.

Many French people suggest that this ban is regressive, as it does not promote equality between men and women. However, Muslims claim otherwise. Muslim women willingly wear this hijab as a symbol of modesty that opposes ostentation, and in Islam males are also required to cover themselves. The burkini is intended to allow these women to enjoy themselves and is not intended to be a symbol of radical Islamism and terrorism. This decree, rather than promoting freedom and equality, has now restricted Muslim women from swimming.

However, I understand the tensions are high in France after 85 civilians were killed in Nice on Bastille Day. But, it is imperative to recognize the motives behind the burkini, and recognize that there is a large population of French Muslims that do not impose harm to the community.

A taste of Mykonos, Greece

The islands of Greece are so perfectly photogenic with those sugar cube houses and azure colored waters. The contrast of white and blue combined with golden sand and pink sunsets makes the visit all the more beautiful. The aura at the beach in the daylight is idyllic and tranquil. Just sitting on a sunbed by the beach can assuage all the stresses from the IB. The soothing zephyr and the view of the crystal clear water is simply unfathomable. The sound of the undulating water as it hits the shore is one that cannot be replaced. One will just get lost in the rhythmic percussion of the waves in the sand. At night, the views continue to emulate inimitable beauty. The incandescent sun begins to drool across the horizon. The luminescent clouds start to illuminate with hues of pink, orange and magenta. The sunset view is aesthetically pleasing to the mind and soul.

Aside from admiring the ineffable beauty, Mykonos offers a plethora of activities to enjoy. The beaches are facilitated with multifarious restaurants that allow you to indulge in palatable Greek flavors. The waiters tend to be young adults that have a loquacious nature and like to get to know their customers. At the beaches, hit songs are played throughout the day and night. The zealous people are there to party after sunset. The ebullient environment encourages the people to dance and enjoy their time. The crowds loved my baby brother, his young age and cute aesthetics encouraged people to approach us and speak to my family and I. He gave us an opportunity to confabulate with individuals from across the globe.

Many of the beaches in Mykonos offered water sports. A personal favorite is the sofa ride that involves thrashing the waves and a lot of screaming. Another popular place to visit is the city center. This area is a series of small lanes and beautiful bunting wherein individuals can chose to eat or shop. The buildings are no taller than 10 meters and are painted white with colored wood windows and stairs. A myriad of people enjoy socializing at this area as it has activities that please the horde, from seaside restaurants, to high end stores, to more affordable stores, to gelato stands, jewelry shopping, authentic Greek food, art stores, friendly people and so forth. There is a stone path that runs throughout the city, that is has white outskirts around each stone, which adds to the character.  

Finally, the hotel staff were indefatigable and always put in the extra effort to ensure that we enjoy our stay. They were ardent and readily conversed with their guests. They, too, were fans of my younger brother and all personally said good-bye to the little boy. Mykonos is the epitome of beauty and enjoyment. Albeit the island was rather exiguous, there was always something to do. If only my stay was not so ephemeral, as there was much more to explore.

Hope to see you soon Mykonos!