This piece will help you plan a better trip and, as a result, you will enjoy your time in Pakistan even more.
Pakistan is Safe
Pakistan is safe, not generalizing but if you want reassurance from someone from your country check out the numerous Travel Youtubers, bloggers, and Instagrammers. The last few years attracted a lot of foreigners from around the world to Pakistan. And many are very happy to tell everyone that it is safe to travel to Pakistan.
Research Before Travelling to Pakistan
Since not many people know about what Pakistan really is so there a lot of misconceptions. Research about Pakistan to find out what is it you want to see and which region you want to travel to. Pakistan is bigger than the United Kingdom and all the different regions are quite different from each other. Create a smart itinerary that will help you enjoy maximum areas and regions.
All Regions are Different
Not all areas in Pakistan are the same, so you will need to be up to date about what is the current situation of the places you want to visit. North Pakistan is famous for the Karakoram mountains and climbing and hiking adventures and culture. While South Pakistan has a history going back to Indus Valley to Mughals. Also, the food is amazing!
Security and Checkpost are for your Safety
Checkpost is not an alarming thing. Now a day most are assigned to get foreigners to sign in before they move to a border region. In some parts of the country, armed police will escort foreign tourists to be extra safe.
You can get an E-Visa
Pakistan began promoting tourism in the country by introducing a new e-visa system for 175 nations. Most nationalities can now apply online for a Pakistan visa. The price varies for different nations.
Exchange your Money in Pakistan
Exchanging Money in Pakistan when you reach. When you are in the city there are many exchange bureaus to exchange your US Dollars, Euros or Pounds. You won’t find exchangers and atm in the villages. But these available in all major towns and cities.
ATMs and Visa Card Works in Pakistan
Most ATMs support Visa and Mastercard but all of them. Many International travelers suggest keeping Pakistani rupees as many places outside cities will not accept ATM including taxi drivers, hotels, restaurants, shops, etc.
Hotel and Accommodation are Easy to Find
Finding Hotels and Accommodation in Pakistan is not difficult. there is a huge variety in the cities depending on your budget, some high-end chain hotels will cost more.
Most hotels in the major cities of Pakistan accept Visa and Mastercard, some even accept American Express. You can also book your accommodation online, but you should pay later at most hotels.
Make reservations before you go as summers a peak season for local travellers as well. And last-minute arrangements are very difficult to make. You should know that not all hotels and guest houses in Pakistan are on booking websites and you might have to call and make a reservation especially hotels outside cities. Travel agencies can make all these arrangements for you.
What Should You Wear in Pakistan
Pakistan is an Islamic country and is very traditional. Both men and women should dress up modestly. Jeans and shirt are acceptable for men and women in most cities except Peshawar. (you should get a Shalwar Kameez for your Peshawar trip)
Pakistani dress for Man and Woman
Pakistani men and women both wear ‘Shalwar Kameez’ which is a long shirt or tunic with loose trousers. Women have add a scarf called ‘Dupatta’ to complete the look. If you want to look like a local you can purchase these outfits pretty much anywhere.
Not all women cover their heads and you will it varies region by region. In some areas, females not only cover their body and head, but they cover their faces, too.
It is advisable to carry a shawl or a large scarf with you so you can cover up when necessary, including when visiting mosques and other religious attractions.
Buying Mobile Connections (SIMS) and WIFI in Pakistan
To buy a Sim Card you must have your Passports and IDs with you.
The internet is very cheap on cellular data and you will find wifi in most places. The speed is usually good enough to stay in contact with friends and family. For business and work, the cities have good speed and many different internet providers. Outside cities, get more information from people where you are staying.
Food in Pakistan
Not all Pakistani food is spicy. Just like the variety of people and cultures, the food is unique in different regions. and it can vary from spicy hot to medium spicy to non-spicy food. You should try them all as they are all equally tasty.
There is no pork in the country, but you can find other types of meat like chicken, fish, lamb, beef, and even goat everywhere in Pakistan. There are a lot of vegetarian dishes available to try from which include lentils, beans and fresh local vegetables served with white rice or chapati (Pakistani bread) Just make sure to ask them about it. Each region and village has a special vegetable dish you will want to try. You want to start with daal-mash! Vegetable snacks like samosa, pakora, Pani puri are all must try.
How to Greet People in Pakistan
Shaking hands is the way locals show respect to their guests. Some people because of their religion don’t shake hands with the opposite sex. For this reason, it is better to wait for them to offer their hands so you can have the appropriate response.
Going Back Home
You must keep in mind that the security won’t let you inside Islamabad’s airport without first seeing a receipt of your flight’s booking or a boarding pass. It can show it on your phone or get a printed copy before you leave for the airport.
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