Famous Landmarks

Museum & Art Galleries

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Darat Safeya Binzagr

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Activities

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Aerial photo from yesterday’s boat trip. Don’t miss our trip this Friday 26th of Oct For more details, you will find booking link on the #Bio. This #trip will be powered by @overboard_sa & @s3aati #Special deal for group 👍🏼 📸 @mohannadbatarfi #jeddah#divingtrip#saudiarabia #swimming#watergames#aerialphotography #weekend #ابحر#جدة#غوص#عائلات

A post shared by OverBoard®️ (Jeddah)since 2014 (@overboard_sa) on Oct 20, 2018 at 2:27am PDT

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Beach volleyball in the middle of the sea 🏖🏐 #saatiadventures #volleyball #sea #island #adventure #summer #tan #explor #ksa

A post shared by Saati Adventures LLC (@s3aati) on Sep 11, 2018 at 5:54am PDT

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Learn to enjoy every minute of your life 🙏🏻 Go out 🏃🏻‍♀️ meet more inspiring people ✨ . Photo by: @marwan__aljuhani املج #املج_البحر #السعوديه# . . . . . . #saudiarabia #explore #Sa #snorkeling #adventure #wander #wanderwoman #saudiadventurer #saudigrl #nature #sea #ocean #notyourtypicalsaudi #weekend #naturewalk #redsea #umluj #breath #breathofthewild #naturebeauty #mearch #lgp #letsgoplaces

A post shared by Mashael Alsolai 🇸🇦🇺🇸 (@mearch_) on Jan 8, 2019 at 5:26am PST

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بالتعاون مع ( رابطة التسلق السعوديه_ و فريق جو اوت دور عن اعلان عن مغامرة جديدة رحلة رقم 88 ( هايكانج وًتسلق صخور ) الموافق 26/ اكتوبر /2018 التسجيل في الرحلة ارجو التكرم بزيارتنا للموقع الالكتروني في الاسفل . JeddahGoOutdoors.com. @saudiclimbingassociation ………………………………………………………………………… With collaboration with two group “Saudi climbin gassociation”group and “Go Outdoors” group We are pleased to announcing our New challenging trip name (Hiking And Rock Climbing) .. Date 26 October 2018 at 02:30 pm till 08: 30 pm Transportation: Not Secured. Get your own car For Register please visits our website . . Jeddahgooutdoors.com @saudiclimbingassociation ………………………………………………………………………….. Looking forward to join us

A post shared by Go Outdoors (@jeddah_go_outdoors) on Oct 20, 2018 at 11:54am PDT

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The biggest adventure you can ever take is to live the life of your dreams. . . . dream#adventure #adventuretime #hiking#tiaf #ksa#saudiarabia #saudi #trip#hike #welcome #pic #pictures #picture_to_keep #see#hope#t #drone #picturetokeep_nature #nature

A post shared by Go Outdoors (@jeddah_go_outdoors) on Jul 8, 2018 at 2:25am PDT

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من المؤكد ان زيارة كهف ام جرسان تعد ضمن قائمة اَي مغامر خليجي ولمساعدتكم في إنجاز هذه المغامرة صممنا لكم هذه الرحلة الممتعة لمشاهدة اطول كهف في العالم العربي و كذلك مشاهدة البركان الابيضً الوحيد في السعودية مع جولة في مدينة خَيْبَر الأثرية للمزيد عن هذه الرحلة وطريقة الاشتراك اتمنى زيارة الرابط في البايو

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What a great weekend..thanks all for coming 🙏🏻 #mearch #letsgoplaces #volcanohike #saudiarabia #explore #hikesaudiarabia #saudiphotographers #desert . . . . . . #roadtrip #saudiarabia #explore #Sa #hiking #adventure #wander #wanderwoman #saudiadventurer #saudigrl #nature #mountains #campvibes #hike #notyourtypicalsaudi #weekend #naturewalk #volcano #desert #breath #breathofthewild #naturebeauty #destinationryd

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Cafe

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مع الساعات الأولى للصباح, يقوم فريقنا باختبارات متعددة لضمان استخلاص افضل مذاق كوب قهوة تلبي رغبات عشاق ومحبين قهوتنـــــا.. ☕️ مقهى ومحمصة |مَدّ| ______________________________________________ During the earliest hours of our mornings, our baristas come to prepare for yet another day of love and dedication to the job; experimenting and constantly improving their skills, to make sure you get the best cup of coffee. Isn’t that what you came for? ☕️ ______________________________________________ #meddcafeandroastery #medd #coffee #speciality #organic #fairtrade #barista #baristadaily #jeddah #saudiarabia #مقهى_و_محمصة_مد #مد #قهوة #عضوية #مختصة #تجارة_عادلة #جدة #السعودية #باريستا

A post shared by مقهى و محمصة مَدّ (@meddcoffee) on Sep 3, 2018 at 8:57am PDT

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Mornings aren't complete without Snow.. 🌞 . . #cupandcouch #scwa #letscoffee #coffee #specialtycoffee #experience #latte #latteart #chemex #chemexlove #neighborhood #cafe #espresso #goodvibes #theconcept #jeddah #saudiarabia . . #كوب_و_كنبة #قهوة  #قهوة_مختصة #جدة #السعودية #2017

A post shared by Cup & Couch |Neighborhood Cafe (@cupandcouch) on Nov 5, 2017 at 4:50am PST

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The birth of a new complexity of flavors #Its92 التحميص يضيف ابعاد معقدة للنكهة، ويظهر النكهات الموجودة طبيعيا في القهوة ☕️

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Fortunately, it is very easy to go around given its small size and availability of public transport. A lot can be covered in a short time!

Transportation

Inter-City: There are 2 main bus stations;

-Charles Helou to go to cities North of Beirut such as Jounieh, Byblos, Batroun, Tripoli etc.

-Cola to go to cities South of Beirut such as Chouf, Baalbek, Sidon, Tyre, Beiteddeen etc.

The buses run every 15 minutes so there is always a running bus.

Private Taxi: If you are in a group of more than 3, I would recommend ordering a taxi because the shared price would be cheaper than bus tickets for each person combined.

There is a fixed rate so you can always call the taxi company to check their rate and it is based on the destination and the type of vehicle you choose.

Within the City:

For short distances; use a Service. It is a shared taxi (red car plate) for about 2000LL/2USD per person. It is important to inform the driver that you want to ride a Service because sometimes they would take you as a private taxi ride which costs a lot!

For longer distances, ask a local around you on which minivans to take to get to your destination. It doesn’t have a clear sign so it’s best to ask around.

Lebanese people are extremely friendly and helpful!

Places to Visit

1. Beirut

– Mar Mikhael: Known as the bar district and also popular for their colored stairs that were covered by Vogue as one of the most creative staircases in the world! Although the color has faded, they still look pretty instagrammable.

– Down Town:  It is the central district also known as Centre Ville. Stroll around the commercial and cosmopolitan area then head down towards Al Abed Clock Tower,  continue towards the Marty Square then the former Byzantine church which currently serves as a mosque called Mohammed Al Amin. Continue towards the North of Beirut to visit the pretty Saifi Village and further up to Sursock Palace.

Mohammed Al Ameen Mosque

Saifi Village

Sursock Palace

Downtown

Al Abed Clock Tower

Do visit Souk El Tayeb on Saturdays between 9a.m. to 2p.m. where you will find loads of fresh organic products, food, vegetables, drinks and what not.

– Hamra – I’ve stayed in this neighborhood twice and it is a central and busy location with many stores, cafe, restaurants, and souvenir shops.

– Burj Hammoud – One of my favorite place to visit! This is where Armenians fleed during the genocide and continued their settlement to date.

It has a completely different vibe than other parts of Beirut.

– Corniche: Take a stroll along the seaside and walk towards Zaytouna Bay where you will find restaurants, yachts and surrounded by high rise modern buildings.

– Raouche Rock – This is found in every guidebook but I don’t find it special. You will eventually drive by as you go around Beirut but it is not a must stop/visit.

– Gemmayze – Another hip district that’s perfect for a stroll with many boutiques, chic cafes, and restaurants. The Original Em Ali (Gluten Free Saj) and Tibliyet Masaad (The best Shish Tawouk Sandwich) is also located there!

2. Baalbek –  The colossal Roman structure is pretty impressive.

Visit Baalbek if you have at least 4 days in Lebanon. It’s a 5 hours journey by bus, definitely worth the trip but not a must visit if you are crunched on time since there isn’t much to do within Baalbek itself.

3. Byblos – It is a coastal town and one of the oldest cities in the world! A good few days in Byblos is recommended to enjoy walking along the alleyways of the old souk, visit Byblos Castle and drive towards the east to visit Baatara Gorge Waterfall, however, it’s best visited after the rain to actually see the waterfall.

4. Chouf – It’s a historic region located in the South East of Lebanon with many beautiful sites to visit.

– Deir al Qamar

– Beit Ed Deen was built in the 19th Century with inlaid marbles and mosaics. Every part of the palace is impressive!

– Mousa Castle – Every single brick in this castle tells a story. This castle was built single-handedly by a man and took about 60 years to complete.

5. Tripoli – Tripoli will take you back in time when Lebanon used to be the

Everything is pretty much walking distance so you could walk around these spots starting from the bus stop.

– Abdulrahman Hallab & Sons for their famous sweets but their Lahm baajine (meat pie) is my favorite.

Photo by @themanalyst

– Sultan Abdulhamid Clock Tower – A gift to the city of Tripoli that was built by the Ottomans. There’s a nice park by the clock tower to unwind.

– Citadel of Raymond Saint Gills – For a 360 view of Tripoli.

– Mansouri Mosque – It is also known as the Great Mosque of Tripoli that was built around the 13th Century.

– Souk Haraj – A bustling souk that sells almost everything.

– Khan Al Saboun – Perfect place to get natural products as a souvenir. They even have soap made out of gold!

Photo by @themanalyst

– Khan Al Khayateen – There are several Khan’s in Tripoli which used to be a caravansary. There are various caravansaries and each one has its specialty. This one is specialized in textiles so you will find many tailors too!

– Port of Tripoli – Enjoy a seafood meal by the port.

6. Ksara Winery – Highly recommended en route to Baalbek for a free tour and wine tasting.

7. Akoura – So I’m not quite sure on what’s there to offer in Akour but it is a  mountainous village and has these pretty ponds!

8. Jounieh – Known for the popular site; Harissa aka Lady of Lebanon. It also offers a magnificent view of the coast. There’s a cable car that goes up and down the statue but you could also access it by driving up to the church. If you’re tight in cash, skip the cable car.

9. Mleeta – It is also known as Museum for Resistance Tourism. It felt surreal walking through the set up of a war camp with sound effects, bunkers, tunnels and surrounded with real military stuff!

10. Nightlife – Here are my favorite spots in Beirut other than the bar district in Mar Mikhael

• AHM
• Encore
• O1NE
• The Grand Factory

11. Faraya- If you happen to visit Faraya, check out the Roman ruins of Faqra Archeological Site. It’s not worth driving only for the site, but worth a visit if you’re in the area.

Faqra Archeological Site

Food

With endless great restaurants, little time and limited tummy space, I’ve narrowed down my favorite restaurants that guarantee a happy belly!

1. Barbar – It is a chain restaurant that can be found in several locations in Beirut. They’re famous for their chicken shawerma and lahm baajine.

2. Tibliyet Masaad – THE BEST SHISH TAWOUK SANDWICH I HAVE EVER TASTED! I loved it so much that I bought 5 boxes to take home.

3. Abu Abdullah – A great place for breakfast. I especially love their fattah awarma.

4. Em Nazih – A great hippie cafe located in a really cool hostel in Gemmayze.

5. Noy – A must try Armenian restaurant if you go to Burj Hammoud. Their manti was exceptional!

6. Manghal – Another authentic Armenian restaurant that will leave you drooling for more.

7. T Marbouta – Delicious food and reasonably priced. My favorite would be Kebba Kushari!

8. The Original Em Ali – Popular for their organic and gluten-free saj! I recommend the rocket and cheese topping!

Currency

Lebanon uses Lebanese Lira and US Dollar.

1USD = 1,500 LL

Accommodation

Here are some cheap accommodation options located in Hamra District. I prefer to use Airbnb if I’m alone because it’s a lot cheaper than hotels/hostels.

Talal Hotel (Hostel) – 15 USD/Night

Hotel Embassy – 35 USD/Night

Napoleon Hotel – 40USD/Night

Use the reference link here and earn 15USD! 😀

The post Things to Do in Lebanon appeared first on Nada Al Nahdi.

By Land

From Saudi  Arabia through Sharourah Border

Bin Moammar

Contact Number: 012 657 5020

Website: www.binmuammar.com

Cost: 300 SAR – Saudi to Yemen / 125 SAR – Yemen to Saudi

Raha Tawfeer

Contact Number: 012 630 5223

Website: www.raha-group.com

Cost: 300 SAR – Saudi to Yemen / 125 SAR – Yemen to Saudi

From Oman

Gulf Line Transport

By Air

Yemenia Airways

Jeddah – Seiyun Every Thursday

Amman – Seiyun Every Saturday

Cairo – Seiyun Saturdays – Wednesdays – Thursdays

Khartoum – Seiyun – Every 15 days

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The quick weekend getaway will take you to volcanic areas, caves, clear blue water, and black sand dunes in 3 days!

Day 1: Yanbu – Campsite

We were picked up from Yanbu Airport and driven to the campsite on a volcanic area. The area requires a 4X4 car.

The weather was pretty chilly and it picked up some wind in the middle of the night.

Day 2: Hiking

We started our day at 8 am for a 10km hike to explore 3 caves.

The trail is mostly flat ground with different terrains; hard lava, fine volcanic materials, flat sand.

To go down into one of the caves, we used a 6-meter ladder that’s already held in place. It’s safe!

You may want to consider taking an antihistamine and a mouth cover as the place is filled with heaps of bird waste.

We have been blessed with plenty rainfalls this year that plants grew in one of the caves.

We had our break with a warm cup of tea before heading back to the campsite.

Black Sand Dunes

Post lunch, we packed up and headed to an area known as “ارض القمر” which means the land of the moon.

As you can see, the volcanic materials are wearing off from the volcanic mountains. Over time, it created a vast area of black sand dunes

If you check google earth, you would be able to see the black area where we camped and the location of the black sand dunes located west of Al-Ais

Al Shabhah Town

As the sun sets, we visited the old town of Al Shabhah where we were greeted in the most traditional way by a group of kind locals.

The locals are putting together an effort to restore the old houses and artifacts of the area for visitors to enjoy.

They demonstrated a traditional way of making wheat bread which is by placing the dough directly on ash and covered with charcoal.

Then the bread is beaten to get rid of the ash and crumbled. Lastly, it is served with a lot of ghee.

It may not sound appealing but once you try it, you won’t be able to stop. It has a very distinct flavor and taste.

Then we camped by the seashore of Umluj.

Day 3 – Swim/Dive/Snorkel

We went to the boat rental spot in Umluj and hopped in one and went to the tiny islands spread around where we snorkeled.

Boat Rental Location: https://goo.gl/maps/v8srqfM9jp72

The water is crystal clear with many beautiful corals everywhere. 

I wanted to dive but there wasn’t enough time between diving and my flight.

We ended it with a feast of seafood!

It was one of the most exciting trips I experienced in Saudi and I recommend everyone to visit the locations mentioned!

Trip Organized by: Weekend Trip

Instagram: @weekendtrip1

Twitter: @weekendtrip1

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I visited Hadhramaut and I can vouch that it is safe for Arabs to explore on their own. As of Westerners/Europeans, it is crucial to have a local for your own safety and to avoid being forced to leave the country by officials.

To protect yourself, blend as a local and avoid unwanted attention. Females, in particular, should dress as covered as possible.

I wore an abaya and a scarf but without a face cover. I did not feel like I was in danger even walking alone during day or night time. Please note that I felt comfortable doing so as I am a Yemeni Citizen and I understood and somewhat speak the local language.

How is life in Yemen?

I have not been to the conflicted area. For Hadhramout, there is nothing outside the normality. However, what we consider as basic needs such as electricity and internet is not available at all times.

Electricity gets cut off multiple times a day for a few hours, as for internet, there isn’t any 2G, 3G or 4G. The only way to get a decent internet is if you buy a sim card and a phone but that would be a waste if you are only visiting for a few days. Houses or hotels have a stable internet connection that you could use. Say goodbye to your instant videos or photos.

How do I get a visa to Yemen?

The tour operator will arrange the visa at a fee of 150USD for all nationalities. The process takes 5 days. New Horizons Socotra Tour

The visa says Socotra, can I visit the mainland?

Yes, you can go around the mainland with the same visa.

What are the flight or land border options to Yemen?

Flights: 

Cairo – Saturdays – Wednesdays – Thursdays

Amman – Every Saturday

Jeddah – Every Thursday

Khartoum – Every 15 Days

Land: Oman – Saudi Arabia Buses are available every day.

Is it possible to visit Socotra?

Yes, there are flights every Wednesday from Seyiun Airport in Hadhramout.

Can I visit Shibam?

Yes, you can. It’s part of the nonconflicted region.

The post Frequently Asked Questions about Yemen appeared first on Nada Al Nahdi.

How can I get a visa?

Currently, tourist visas can only be obtained by attending an international or cultural event

Keep your eyes on www.sharek.sa or subscribe to my blog to get notified the next time a visa is available.

Past Events & Cost

Sports Event:

December 2018 Formula E – GA Ticket 105 USD – Visa 180USD

January 2019 Italian Supercup – GA Ticket 13 USD – Visa 180USD

Cultural Event:

December 2018 – February 2019 – Winter at Tantora – Cheapest Ticket 250 USD

What is the visa duration?

Sports Event is through www.sharek.sa that provide an E Visa for 30 days single entry.

Cultural Event uses a separate platform and the duration may vary based on the event duration.

What is the visa process?

Sports Event: Simply purchase the ticket to attend an event through www.sharek.sa and fill in the required information. You will receive your E Visa in a matter of minutes in your email. That’s it!

Cultural Event: Process varies. Please check with the event team for info.

Do I need a guardian to get a visa?

No, you do not need a guardian.

Can all nationalities apply for the visa?

It depends on the event. Formula E Visa did not have any nationality restriction, however, the Italian Supercup was limited to North Americans/South Americans/UK/Europeans/Australians and New Zealanders.

Do I need to be above 25 years old to get a visa?

No, you don’t.

Do I need a guardian to travel around Saudi?

No, you do not need a guardian.

Can females travel alone in Saudi?

Yes, females can travel independently in Saudi.

I have chosen an airport as a point of entry, can I enter by land?

Yes, you can enter by land. These are the available land borders into Saudi; Bahrain, Jordan, UAE, and Yemen.

What should I wear?

Females:

Length – Above ankle length and below the knee length

Sleeves – 3/4 sleeves is your minimum

Colors – as colorful as you please!

Patterns – As crazy as you wish!

Style – Any style as long as it is decent.

Scarves – Not needed

Burqa – Definitely not needed

Bikinis – 2 piece bikinis are allowed in private beaches/boat trips.

PS: We love unique abayas so expect strangers coming up to you asking where you get it from.

Males – Anything and shorts are allowed.

Note: Shorts are not allowed in Saudi Airlines flights.

Photo by @morinasworld

Will I be harassed if I don’t wear a black abaya and a headscarf?

No, you won’t but I don’t control the population’s behavior. Personally, I don’t face harassment.

Can the religious police arrest me?

No, they don’t have any authority and almost nonexistent.

Can females and males be seen together?

Yes, they can.

What is the proper way to greet another gender?

This depends on the context.

Hugging is a normal way of greetings with friends and especially expats.

With locals that you meet for the first time, here’s a quick guide.

Male & Male – Handshake or handshake with a kiss on the right cheek and two on the left cheek. Sometimes, they do more on the left.

Male & Female – Wait for the female to give her hand, or else simply nod your head.

Female & Female – Handshake or handshake with a kiss on the cheeks. The number of kisses per cheek varies and it can get confusing. The basic rule is 1 on the right side and 2 on the other side and then step away. Sometimes it can get awkward where the other person expects the 3rd kiss but that’s normal. Just laugh it off or go in for the 3rd kiss.

Saudi is huge! Where should I begin my trip?

This depends on your point of entry and interest. These cities/regions are a must visit; Jeddah, Riyadh, Qassim, Al Ula, Tabuk, Aseer Region, and Jazan Region.

Photo by @mustafa_sahloli

Photo by @mal2at

Photo by @robertmichaelpoole

Are there buses to go between cities?

Yes, SAPTCO bus has an extensive network and it is the only national bus company.

You can get more details in this post 

How long should I stay in Saudi?

I would say as much as you can. If you are tight on time, 2 to 3 weeks is fair. However, it would be an exhausting trip because the distance between cities is huge.

__________

Feel free to ask me for advice in the comments below! I could help in planning your trip. I don’t charge! I could also meet you guys when you’re in my town or if I happen to be in the city you’re in!

Last Update: 24-01-2019

The post FAQ on Saudi Arabia appeared first on Nada Al Nahdi.

It’s a simple electronic visa process that takes 2 to 3 working days at most.

Step 1:

Go to www.visa.mofa.gov.sa

Step 2:

Click on Citizens & Residence

Step 3:

Click Resident Tab and choose Family Visit Visa Application for Residents

Step 4:

Fill in the required information.

Note:

The form is only available in Arabic.

The requester’s address should be in the same city as the sponsor

Step 5:

Save the document as PDF and send it to your sponsor to get it electronically authenticated. This costs 35 SAR.

Step 6:

Check the status of the application 1 or 2 days after it got authenticated

Step 7:

A visa document is issued which needs to be printed and submitted to the nearest consulate/embassy to get the visa sticker on the passport of the visitor.

That’s it folk! It’s a simple procedure that takes between 2 to 3 working days.

The visa fee varies based on nationality.

Last Update: 24-01-2019

The post How to Apply Family Visit Visa for Saudi Residents appeared first on Nada Al Nahdi.

Breakfast: 5 – 10 SAR

Lunch/Dinner: 10 – 20 SAR

The post A Guide to Saudi Arabia appeared first on Nada Al Nahdi.

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

The post Afghanistan from a Different View appeared first on Nada Al Nahdi.

__________________________________________________________________________

Let me take you on my mental and physical journey to Afghanistan…

I have always wanted to visit Afghanistan, and other conflicted countries. The sudden visa approval from Pakistan led to an impulsive decision to visit Afghanistan.

Another main reason is that I could cross from the border, hence I won’t have to spend a a lot of money on expensive flight to Afghanistan.

I purchased a one way flight to Islamabad as I did not know whether I would fly out from Afghanistan or Pakistan. After I received my Afghanistan visa, I booked my return flight from Kabul.

I was filled with excitement when I received my visa until I saw a post on a traveler who was recently shot by militants and the news paralyzed me. I am not certain how true this is, however, that’s what his followers mentioned in the comment. I did not dig deeper. I couldn’t.

Many of you may not know but I don’t read news unless if it is something positive. You may think I’m ignorant for disregarding the negativity and real life tragedies happening around the world, but I would rather get the news from first hand experiences such as  locals living the situation.

Given that I don’t read the news; I don’t study the conflicted countries that I plan to go to. Because studying means I have to read the news and that leads to instilling fear and self doubt. I don’t need that.

Instead, I turn to Couchsurfing and backpackers community who have first hand experiences in the recent past along with locals living in the country. They give the best insight and advise. For me, that’s the real deal without any provoking message.

Turned out, it wasn’t only the news that I needed to avoid, but also people. Random people with negativity.

Another thing which you may not know about me is that I believe in signs. And sometimes, I get lost in translation and end up with self conflict and doubt.

I was on edge most of the time after reading the tragedy of a fellow backpacker. It kept playing on the back of my head “Is this a wake up call? Is this a sign?” and it only got worse as the days go by. More signs and scare talk kept coming my way from strangers.

I was sitting in a cafe, minding my own business when a Pakistani lady who came from the US approached the table and started to have a conversation.

The first conversation goes around “So, are you traveling alone?” “Aren’t you scared traveling along around Pakistan?” While all that is pretty normal until the lady went with; “There was an incident that happened on our way to Hunza. We stopped by an area which is known to be dangerous but we did anyway because we wanted to use the restroom. So we were going up to the houses to ask them but then the officials told us to come back down. It all seemed very innocent to us as they are just people. Until a few men from the house followed us and told our husbands that we were lucky to be warned or else no one would find us again”

As she was speaking, I was staring and listening intently and somewhat also blanked out while my body was pretty much paralyzed. She then pointed her finger at me and said “Okay, I’m scaring you so I’m going to stop talking. You look extremely frightened” and I was just baffled.

I laughed and said “What?! Did I actually look scared? Was it written all over my face? No, no I’m fine!”

Yeah. Right.

“Is this a sign?” “I’m going to a country that has danger written all over and I also look at it as something very innocent.”

Few minutes went by, then a lady came by whom I had spoke to on the phone the night before through a Couchsurfer who connected us.

She sat on the table and we had a nice chat then I came to know she’s a journalist and when she found out I was going to cross border to Afghanistan, she advised not to go from the border. 

Here we go again.

As she goes out for a smoke, I followed her with curiosities and so many questions. She’s a journalist and a traveler. Surely, she would understand where I’m coming from and how I feel.

This is the gist of how the conversation went on:

Me: So, tell me. Why is it not safe? What could go wrong?

Kiran: The route from Torkham to Kabul passes by Jalallabad which is occupied by a certain group of militant. I have interviewed them in the past and they look for anything. And seeing that you’re a solo female backpacker, they would think you have money.

Me: Clearly, they have a different definition of a backpacker.

Kiran: Well yes, these people are uneducated. They think anyone who travels have money.

Me: Okay, so you’ve interviewed them. You’ve seen them. What could I do if anything goes south?

Kiran: Nothing. It’s out of anyone’s control. If you’re lucky then you might be able to get to Kabul safely and seeing that you’ve gone this far, you seem pretty lucky. If I look back, I have also done major things and I am lucky to still be here. I understand that you want to get the organic experience of crossing the border and see how things are in real life and I hope you get to do that safely but there are risks along the way. I hope you do cross the border and make it home safely and if you get extremely nervous then just fly there.

Me: Well, it’s not like I have an option, there isn’t any direct flight to Kabul until next Monday which would be too late.

Kiran: Well then, good luck with it. I hope you have a safe journey and come out of it with a story to tell.

Me: IF I come back safely.

Kiran: You know the risks but I hope you make it through and come out stronger.

Me: If.

“Is this a sign?”

I was in Hunza which is about 12 to 15 hours drive away from Islamabad. I needed to go back to Islamabad in order to cross the border. The carpool was arranged to leave Hunza on Monday 4:00 a.m. and arriving in Islamabad by Monday 6:00 p.m.

However, the driver didn’t answer or confirm the trip. Then, I found another driver who was ready to leave. So I quickly told Kiran and another traveler in excitement, “YOU GUYS! So listen! This driver can carpool now to Islamabad which means I will arrive by 10:00 a.m. in Islamabad and there is a direct flight to Kabul at 11:30! Should I take the flight? Is this a sign? Is this God’s way of telling me to take the only direct flight this week?!”

My anxiety went from 100 to 0 for about 2 minutes until the driver sent another message; “Sorry, I cannot leave now. I found another passenger so we have to leave on Monday 7:00 a.m.”

Not again. Back to square one. What is the universe trying to tell me?!

Stress. Anxiety. Self doubt. Negative thoughts. Worst images. You name it. My mind was all over the place, I couldn’t feel my body.

I arrived in Islamabad, and met my host. He offered his family’s wedding hall to crash in and we sat through the night trying to figure out a way to Kabul in the safest way possible.

Generally, this is how it goes to cross the border.

Carpooling:

Shared car from Rawalpindi to Torkham Border

Cross the border and find another carpool to Kabul.

Public Transport:

Take a bus from Rawalpindi to Peshawar

Take another van or carpool to Torkham Border

Cross the border and find another carpool to Kabul.

But, it was Eid. Tuesday was Eid in Afghanistan and Wednesday was Eid in Pakistan.

So no one was traveling and no one was willing to drive on those days. There were a few who was willing to go but they asked for triple the price which was out of my budget.

Monday night, arrived in Islamabad around 10:00 p.m., took a refreshing shower and went to a cafe to sort things out thinking that I would be leaving to the border by Tuesday 4:00 a.m.

(The time is used as a sequence reference)

Monday 11:00 p.m. – Found a car with an Afghani family. PERFECT! I could tag along with them and have them help me cross the border and to Kabul.

Monday 11:30 p.m. – Driver called and said “Sorry, the family cancelled so I can’t go unless if you want to rent the entire car” F*** I can’t rent the entire car and I also need a local to be with me to help in border crossing!

Monday 11:30 p.m. – 3:00 a.m. – We sat in a cafe, my host called everyone possible and we came up with Plan A, B ,C D, E. I even offered to pay anyone to come with me. ANYONE! Free ride to Kabul!

Nothing worked.

Then a random guy from another table decided to pop in the conversation.

“Sorry to interrupt, but I overheard that you are planning to go to Torkham border”

My host: Yes, she is going alone.

Random guy: NO NO NO! It’s dangerous. Man, you can’t go there alone. You need to contact your embassy for a security guard or ask any of the FC to go with you. It’s no joke yo. I went there randomly just to check it out at 2a.m. and they were so rough. I got into a huge fight with them. But seriously speaking, you should NOT go alone.

Me: Blanks into space and paralyzed.

My friend’s family in Afghanistan called at 3 a.m. asking if I am crossing in 3 hours, I was doubtful and she also wanted to find an easier way so she said she will try to figure something out and to wait for her call the next day.

I agreed. One more day of waiting and anxiety won’t hurt. I’ve done 4 days already.

So I looked at my host and said;

Me: What do you have tomorrow?

My host: I’m free this week.

Me: You’re coming to Lahore with me whether you like it or not.

My host: WHAT?

Me: *Check bus schedules* There’s a bus leaving at 6:30 a.m.! In 3 hours! We can make it.

My host: Wait! What if ……….

Me: No. This is it. Nothing worked. I’ll wait another day to go to the border.

My host: Okay. Fine.

So we hardly slept, got to the bus station at exactly 6:30 and watched the bus drove past us so we had to wait another hour for the next bus.

I enjoyed my day in Lahore and kept the stress away until the day ended. My host and I went to a restaurant for dinner. I was hungry but I couldn’t eat. There was too much going on in my head.

We started to make calls again and did our plan A, B, C ,D and whatever it takes. But this time was different, I had to make a decision and go. Whatever price it takes.

Not to mention, few days before my journey begin, there was a bomb in Kabul.  There were more scare talks but I’ll save them for myself.

My host said “Talk to your husband”

I wander off solo around the world and my husband fully understands my passion and supports me one hundred percent.

So I messaged him to let him know about my dilemma.

He says “Be safe, and let me know what happens”

I love him even more for that. He knows not to discourage me. If anything happens, it happens right? Our life is written.

I also would like to thank the Couchsurfing and Backpacker community who have given me the boost and positive spirit to go through the border after all the negative and scare talks I received.

My host and I arrived to Islamabad at 3:00 a.m., and in 3 hours max I need to start my journey to the border so I can get to Kabul during day light, but I did not have any ride yet.

As we drove off from the bus station, my host saw another transport company and got off the car to check their rate and availability.

He came back to the car and said “You were looking for someone who is desperate for money and would work in Eid right? Well, we found your guy! 50USD from Islamabad to the border.”

Me: I’LL TAKE IT!

It’s the cheapest offer I found during the eid days. Even though the car is without AC but I couldn’t care less. I just wanted to get to the border.

I quickly called my friend’s family in Kabul to let her know that I am leaving at 6:00 a.m. so she can pick me up from the other side of the border in time. The travel time for her and me to the border is the same. Except, my driver sped off and reduced the time by an hour!

Let me rewind a little here. While I was trying to find rides from Islamabad to the border, my host in Afghanistan was also trying to find ways to get me from the Afghanistan border to Kabul. She eventually decided that she would personally pick me from the border. This was a MAJOR relief. She went out of her way and spent 8 hours in a car only to pick me from the border.

However, my Kabul’s host and couchsurfer biggest fear was the border itself, not the journey to Kabul.

When I decided to cross the border, the first thing they asked “Do you speak Farsi? Pashto? Urdu?”

The armies and officials on the border speak only those mentioned languages and absolutely no English or Arabic.

I was also advised to maintain a low profile and that is almost impossible while having to speak in English trying to explain to every single army I pass by. They see my Yemeni passport, solo female backpacker who dresses and look very different to what they usually see. They keep saying I’m American because I spoke in English.

My host and Couchsurfer in Afghanistan was right. The border was the hardest part. It was rough. Very rough. But then again I was very lucky as I traveled in Eid and the border was practically empty. It would have been ten times harder if it was in any normal days.

Now that I look back, it was completely doable. I don’t regret a single bit of what had happened. It was a self learning experience more than anything. There was a lot of self reflection throughout the tough times and I can only thank God for another blessed day in this small world.

Thank you for everyone who was there for me through all of this and made it easier and possible.

Grateful for my my husband, my hosts, couchsurfing and backpacker community; you guys were my rock.

Please don’t feel discouraged but do take safety measures such as having a local with you or as a contact person throughout the journey. They know the ins and outs.

To read about my border crossing experience, click here!

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