When one thinks of traveling to Afghanistan, one can’t help but picture a war-torn country with many suicide bombs, attacks, civilians killed, injured and brutalized.

While that happens, but Afghanistan and the people are not a part of that representation. Those are extremists who are trying to take control of the country and forcing their radical views.

Afghans are very kind and hospitable who are also very proud of their country, culture, and tradition.

I spent three days and two nights in Kabul during Eid. While everything were closed, I had the opportunity to meet many lovely Afghans as they visit my host’s house to greet Eid.

Afghans hold a tight family bond which is very beautiful. Once a woman gets married, she moves to her in-laws family and everyone live together. Basically, many generations under one roof.

After an 8 hours drive from Islamabad to Kabul, the first stop was to a restaurant in Kabul.

I did not expect good infrastructure and road conditions. I thought I would see lots of ruins and shacks but everything was very much constructed between four walls.

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Then I spent the day chit chatting and simply listening to locals and trying to understand how life is in Kabul.

Everyone’s response would be “Afghanistan is safe, nothing to worry about. It’s a beautiful country.”

And yes, I’m sure you have a question mark on “safe”. So did I.

“Sometimes things happen but we cannot be afraid all the time. We live our lives normally. If anything happens, it happens. We cannot control it. We have fun, we listen to music, we dance, we go to weddings, we have parties, we go out, we have a cinema, malls, restaurants and so much more! We love our country”

I will never be able to understand until I live in their shoes. Three days did not make a dent. Each one of us has a certain level of understanding life and this is life as they know it.

On the second day, my host took me to Qargha; a huge park where everyone goes during Eid.

I have to say, I don’t think any blue lake view with a mountainous backdrop or even a gushing waterfall could beat the cheerful noise from kids and adults in the park. They were music to my ears. I couldn’t help but smile with a grin and contentment.

My view of Afghanistan is not the same anymore and I’m certain that everyone would feel the same once they experience it themselves.

My only wish is that I had more time and budget to spend while I was there.

Border Crossing from Pakistan to Afghanistan

An Impulsive Visit to Afghanistan

Afghanistan Visa

My Spontaneous Trip to Yemen