Most first-time pilgrims tell us the same thing afterwards: they wish someone had described the ordinary parts.

Before you fly. Ihram is assumed before the miqat, which for flights from the United Kingdom usually means changing on the aircraft. Pack the two white cloths in your hand luggage, not the hold.

Arrival. Jeddah immigration takes between one and three hours depending on the season. A group representative meets you past customs and the coach to Makkah takes about ninety minutes.

Tawaf. Seven circuits beginning at the Black Stone corner. Keep to the outer rings if you are travelling with elderly family; the distance is longer but the crowd is gentler.

Sa'i. Seven lengths between Safa and Marwah, roughly three kilometres in total. There is no rush, and wheelchairs are available at the gate.

Afterwards. Hair is trimmed or shaved and ihram ends. Most groups return to the hotel by mid-morning and sleep.