Afghanistan

Afghanistan is not the first country that comes to mind when you are thinking about a travel destination. Likely you may associate it first and foremost with images of bearded men blowing themselves up in the name of religion. But it was not always so . . . Back in the heady 60’s and 70’s the country was an integral part of the overland trail to India. Kabul was on par with Kathmandu as a destination to hang out and chill for a while on the long journey to the East.

And then it all collapsed. The tragic story of the last three decades is well known to all but the most ignorant: coups, invasions, civil wars, terrorist camps, more wars, western intervention and, voila, we come to the present. Afghanistan is not peaceful, but neither has it descended, yet, into the complete anarchy of the nineties.

The obvious question as a traveller is of course: is it safe? No! Can it be travelled? Yes, but only if you come very well prepared, know the risks and are prepared to accept them. If you are dead set on visiting this country be aware that this is not a “normal” country. When I say be prepared, I mean you should know and check and re-check the current security situation. Visit Afghanistan forums, security platforms and, if possible, talk to people who have been there recently or are there currently. Listen to the advice given and be prepared to give up on your plans if it turns out they are unfeasible. Be flexible. The situation in the country is fluid; safe areas turn dangerous, dangerous areas can become more secure.

But if you go, or if the situation changes for the better you will be well rewarded. Below are some of the highlights of Afghanistan.