PAKISTAN - HOME TO THE WORLD’S YOUNGEST NOBEL LAUREATE
PAKISTAN - HOME TO THE WORLD’S YOUNGEST NOBEL LAUREATE
The Islamic Democratic Republic of Pakistan is a country in South Asia. Its capital is Islamabad, however, Karachi is the largest city and Financial Center of Pakistan. Pakistan is from the Indus Valley civilization and is the 5th most populous in the world with a population of over 241.5 million. Moreover, it is the second-largest Muslim population in the world. The country is bounded by the Arabian Sea to the South of the Gulf of Oman, Afghanistan to the West/Southwest, China to the Northwest, and shares land border with India to the east. The name “Pakistan” is both Persian and Urdu and means “land of Paks, the spiritually pure and clean.” “Pak” is ‘pure’ in Persian and “-stan” means “land or place of.”
With regards to the tagline, Pakistan is home to the youngest Nobel Peace Prize Mahala Yousafzai. She was only age 17 when she was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, making her the youngest person worldwide to have received such a prestigious accolade. She was awarded the prize for her work advocating for the education of girls and children in Pakistan and worldwide. The Pakistani economy is reliant on agriculture and services, both contributing to the highest percentage of the GDP. Continue reading to learn more about Pakistan, home to the world’s youngest Nobel Laureate, and my recent visit.
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APPLYING ONLINE FOR A PAKISTAN E-VISA
Applying for a Pakistan e-visa was a bit tedious (just my opinion) because the form has some unnecessary questions that have nothing to do with travel, visa, or the country’s security…just some weird, random questions. However, if you qualify for the option to apply for an e-visa, visit the official Pakistan Visa website and complete the online application form. Please note; that the first step is to use your email address and make an account, wait for an automatic email verification response.
Once received you can begin the process of filling out the visa form. To continue further, you must submit a passport-size photo (no more than six months old), scanned copies of your biometric page in your passport, confirmed hotel booking, and other documents stipulated. To complete the process, you pay via credit card and wait 5 – 7 business days for a response. Once you are successful, they will email you a soft copy. You then print it because you must present it at the airline at check-in before being allowed to board the aircraft.
ARRIVAL IN ISLAMABAD, PAKISTAN
Upon arrival at the Islamabad International Airport, I proceeded to immigration with my printed eVisa, passport, and other documents such as hotel bookings, etc. The immigration officers were quite pleasant and quick because my flight was the only one in the queue at 5:30 a.m. While in line, an officer walked up to me and said, “The most beautiful lady is last in line” I smiled, and then he asked where I was from I said “The Caribbean Region”, noticing his puzzled look, I said, “The West Indies” he then smiled and said, “Brian Lara”, I said, “Yes Yes”, the he continued talking about Cricket until it was my time to approach the other immigration officer.
On approach, I handed him my passport and printed eVisa only. He did not ask for the yellow fever vaccination card, or hotel booking, neither to show the minimum required USD 500.00. The entire process took less than ten minutes and I did not receive a physical visa my passport, only an entry stamp. I was off to luggage pick-up in less than ten minutes. Note that all travellers exiting the customs area must present their airline bag tags (to verify collection of the correct luggage) to the officer, and then scan their hand luggage before being allowed to exit.
DEPARTURE FROM ISLAMABAD, PAKISTAN...OMG
Departing from Islamabad International Airport is a nightmare if you are late for your flight and or think arriving two hours before your flight will be okay. Firstly, when you arrive at the airport, immediately after exiting your taxi, join a line (both very long lines) to enter the departure area. I can tell you the crowd was overwhelming, and on the day I arrived in the country, I noticed a similar crowd and wondered what it was about. It was a mixture of well-wishers and travellers, I quickly joined a line and asked questions after.
Whilst standing in the line (there are two) one was moving slightly faster than the other. However, I did not switch over to it, because other travellers told me that my line was for all economy travellers and the shorter line was only for cabin crew, diplomats, and first-class passengers (strange enough the sign for this was only posted over the entry doors but nowhere at the back of the line)…WHATTTT! Luckily. It was during winter so the temperature was around 12 degrees that morning, but imagine enduring this during Pakistan 40 plus temperature in the summer.
Pakistan, Home to the World’s youngest Nobel Laureate Cont...
Continuing, with only two officers at the doors serving all these passengers, I was in the line for one hour and it was barely moving. Then a man approached me and said he could get me directly inside for 1000 PKR which I refused, then he said, 500 PKR, which I also declined. After another 30 minutes, the “special line” was getting shorter and an official allowed some of us to move over to it. Just to get to the door took another 25 minutes.
Note that when you arrive at the door, you must present your printed or soft copy visa, and airline flight schedule to the officer just to enter the departure area. On entry, you must pass through a metal detector then line up for a luggage scan and “pat down” literally. Clearly, they were biased towards men because they assigned four or five lines for men and only one for women so you can imagine how slow it was moving. Further, all women, one by one, had to enter inside a booth-like room and be “patted down” by a female officer.
Thereafter, I exited the room, collected my luggage, and then proceeded to my airline counter to check in. Subsequently, I proceeded to Immigration. After Immigration I proceeded to TSI and another private room check and pat down, like OMG why was a second necessary? Then it was on to a more thorough search of the carry-on and hand luggage, where they were scanned, and then every item in my handbag was removed and thoroughly inspected.
It took no less than twenty minutes for me to clear because of my wallet which they repeatedly sent through the scanner about three times because they had an issue with an item therein. The female officer removed every item, including my cards, only to realise a tiny jade pendant was the issue…like, really?! Why? It was the same wallet, with the exact items inside that I have used for years at all airports. The officer replaced the jade and I proceeded to my gate to await my flight. This entire procedure from arrival at the airport took me almost three hours.
It was strategic planning that I left for the airport almost five hours before my flight because I was unsure if they had reopened the roads leading to the airport since they blocked them along with other roads during the PTI political protest. Never have I seen such rigid security at any airport before…NEVER! It was good that I had the extra time and didn’t arrive at the airport three hours before check-in, and that all officers including Immigration had pleasant dispositions otherwise it would have left me super annoyed.
TRANSPORT OPTIONS TO/FROM THE CITY OF ISLAMABAD
From/to the Islamabad International Airport to downtown Islamabad is approximately 30 – 40 minutes. Taxis are the most expensive, yet affordable, and cost about 16,000 -1800 PKR ($8.00 – $10.00 USD). Additionally, there are other transport options like the metro bus (lines 1 and 2) and the public buses (green line) cost 15.00 – 55.00 PKR (under $1.00 USD). It takes about 40 – 45 minutes to/from the city and is the slowest and cheapest option. Uber is also available to/from the airport. For all first-time visitors to Islamabad, note that many RELENTLESS taxi hustlers at the airport will not scam you per se, but charge higher than the regular taxi rate.
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ABOUT THE CITY OF ISLAMABAD
Islamabad, which means the “City of Islam” is the capital city of Pakistan and the ninth-most-populous city with more than 1.5 million people. It is most famous for its beautiful gardens, parks, and mosques. In my mental view of the city, I was totally off. I pictured a “slummy looking” city, but instead, I saw a green city full of flora and fauna lining all business and housing developments, and pockets of mini-markets in their midst. Even though it was not 100% “spik and span,” it was nowhere close to what I envisioned. It is a developed city and listed in the top 10 world’s beautiful cities worldwide.
Islamabad is a huge city and it has quite a unique layout. The city is subdivided into five major zones and eight basic zones. Many sectors labelled from E/7 – E/17, D/11 – D/17, F/6 – F/17, G/5 – G/17, H/8 – H/18, I/8 – I/18 Sectors. Moreover, it is as if each area has its own city hub or “mini-downtown” and public parks, instead of one big central downtown area serving the entire city.
Pakistan, Home to the World’s youngest Nobel Laureate Cont...
Those visiting for the first time must research to see which best suits their needs before booking their accommodation. (I was quite comfortable in the F/6 area). Some of these sectors can be reached by foot but for others, you must use transportation because it is a massive city. A point to note: The pedestrian crossing means nothing to the drivers in the city. They never stop for you to cross, even if you stare at them. Therefore take your chances when it is safe enough for you to do so.
The city has many cafes, shops, restaurants, stores, Money exchanges (Blue area) beautiful parks, and interesting sites. Even more, it seems to be a popular tourist destination because I met visitors from many countries like the Philippines, China, France, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
However, the only downside to my visit was the PTI Party protest (to release Iran Khan – the former Prime Minister, and other political prisoners) in the city, which caused the authorities to block most of the major roads leading into/out of Islamabad. This thwarted my plans to sightsee outside Islamabad. Not only this but the internet was shut down at times and curtailing communication. Other than this the city was still alive both day and night.
Tips and Fun Facts about Pakistan
- The languages spoken – Urdu (the official language), and little English.
- Official currency – Pakistani Rupee.
1 USD = 278.49 PKR
1 Euro = 304.32 PKR
1 GBP = 363.48 PKR
- Pakistan has 792 species of birds; which include crows, sparrows, hawks, falcons, eagles, and Chukar (Alectoris Chukar) its national bird.
- Islam dominates in Pakistan with about 96.5% of the population being Muslim. Additionally, Pakistan ranks 2nd globally in Muslim population. However, with freedom of religion guaranteed under the Constitution, Hinduism is the second largest religion in Pakistan (2.14%), and Christianity at (1.27%).
- Pakistan was among the first nations to establish formal diplomatic ties with China, thus forging a strong and beneficial relationship. In reciprocation, China is Pakistan’s largest trading partner (imports) and has huge investments in Pakistan’s infrastructure.
- India is Pakistan’s biggest enemy and vice versa because of the disputed Kashmir region. (Kashmir typically refers to the mountainous region straddling India and Pakistan’s border). So if you previously travelled to India, prepare to face some third-degree questioning on entry.
- The third-largest milk producer globally is Pakistan.
- Ladies, dress modestly in Pakistan, remember it is a Muslim country. I can tell you I got some glances directly at my legs from women when I wore knee-length skirts and dresses.
- Mohammad Ali Jinnah (Barrister and politician) founded Pakistan (December 20, 1876 – September 11, 1948). He is popularly known as Quaid-e-Azam (Great Leader) and Baba-e-Qaum (Father of the Nation).
- In December 2020, Emma Alam, a young Muslim Pakistani girl, won World Memory Championships, by beating 300 other contestants from around the world.
- Pakistan is a diverse Society with an estimated 75 to 85 languages. However, English also serves as the official language but Urdu is the most popular language spoken by 75% of Pakistanis.
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- Pakistan is No. 3 worldwide for the unhealthiest air. (it’s why I travelled with my (#Ad) wearable mini Travel Air Purifier and my (#Ad) almost invisible reusable Nasal Filter instead of wearing a mask as I did in the Philippines a few years ago before COVID-19, because of similar air pollution).
- Cricket is the most popular sport in Pakistan in addition to polo, football, and squash. However, field hockey is its national sport.
- Pakistan is home to the second-highest mountain worldwide (K2) at 8614m. It is also known as Ketu/Kechu, Chhogori/Qogir, and Mount Godwin-Austen. Not only this, but also the third highest (Tirich Mir) and the three highest mountain ranges worldwide (Karakoram, Hindu Kush, and Himalayas).
- The world’s deepest deep seaport Gwardar, is in Pakistan.
- Pakistan has eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Additionally, it has what they proclaim “the 8th Wonder of the World,” the China-Pakistan Friendship Highway or the Karakoram Highway. It is so named, because of its high elevation and difficult construction conditions.
- The second largest salt mine (Khewra Salt Mine) is in Pakistan. They often market this salt as the famous pink Himalayan Salt and is a big tourist attraction.
- Pakistan Sialkot makes over 70% of the world’s footballs making the country the world’s largest producer of hand-sewn footballs. Furthermore, the official footballs at the last FIFA World Cups were made in Pakistan.
- Pakistan has the largest Polo ground worldwide in Shardur Pakistan.
- Pakistan is the only Muslim nuclear power country in the world and also has the 6th largest armed focus worldwide.
- Pakistan has the third-largest population of English speakers worldwide (104 million), U.S.A. takes the No. 1 spot.
- Samina Khayal Baig a Pakistani high-altitude mountaineer (born in 1990) became the first and youngest Muslim woman to climb Mount Everest in 2013, and all Seven Summits by 2014. She also climbed K2 Mountain, in 2022, all by the age of 21.
- Public affection between men and women including kissing touching or even holding hands in public is frowned upon as public display. Moreover, in Pakistan same-sex relationships are illegal so it is not a good place for LGBTIQ+ people to travel.
- Pakistan has the largest irrigation system in the world known as the Indus Basin irrigation system.
- Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan is the first cricketer worldwide to become a prime minister.
- Pakistanis love to decorate their transportation. Many buses, trucks, and even mini pick-up trucks are decorated with dangling beads and elaborate, vibrant, and colourful artwork known as Phool Patti. It is a distinctive feature of Pakistani culture.
- Pakistan was the first Muslim-majority country to have a female head of government Benazir Bhutto the daughter of former Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto became prime minister of Pakistan in 1988.
- Pakistan has the seventh-largest pool of scientists and Engineers worldwide.
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ABOUT CURRENCY EXCHANGE IN PAKISTAN
For all visitors to Pakistan, please note that when you visit the Money Exchange Cambios in Pakistan; you need to produce your passport and a copy of the Visa, to convert your dollars to Pakistan currency. Without a copy of the visa, you will be turned away. It is the first country I have experienced this, in the majority of countries maybe a passport or any ID card will do, but in Pakistan, it takes a while to complete this process because you must provide your hotel name, address, telephone number, etc. and even fill out a form as if you are applying for a visa all over again.
It seems the government has this currency conversion locked down realll tight. Therefore, it is illegal to convert your money at a store or anywhere else except the official cambios.
Pakistan, Home to the World’s youngest Nobel Laureate Cont...
ABOUT THE PEOPLE OF PAKISTAN
Pakistanis are some of the most hospitable people worldwide. They deserve a place on my list of friendliest people and countries worldwide. Not only are they friendly but helpful, kind, and respectful. From the moment you arrive at the airport, you will not only receive smiles but the stares, OMG…everyone stares at you; children, adults, males, and females. Similarly, on the city streets, inside cars, and everywhere you go the eyes of Pakistanis follow. You either feel uncomfortable or like a celebrity haha.
Many times the locals want to take photos with you; the women only want photographs with you on their phones (it’s a Muslim thing in most Muslim countries, the women do not wish to be photographed). The men have no problem being photographed. They are naturally outgoing and will stop to ask where I am from and even “What are you eating or drinking”. They are ready to socialise. On many occasions, while walking, drivers would stop to offer me a ride (which I respectfully declined), sweet nonetheless.
Despite all this, I encountered many beggars, mostly children, and women and men to a lesser extent. However, I hardly saw any homeless people; meaning laying on the streets or in make-shift cardboard houses.
The acts of hospitality that I received in Pakistan were truly overwhelming and amazing. Just about everyone I came into contact with at the hotel, to the people on the street; a quick smile and or hello always greeted me. It was truly outstanding. Hence the reason I never seriously listen to, or take to heart what is on television or what most the media outlets spew about most countries. However, if you wish to fit in even more, stay physically cool, and show gratitude for the locals, invest in a Salwar Kameez, the traditional dress of Pakistan. It is a three-piece garment; the Salwar is the loose pants/trousers, the Kameez is a long shirt/dress, and paired with/without a scarf. They will admire and love you even more for it.
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PAKISTAN SAFETY AND SECURITY
Regarding security and safety in Pakistan, I felt safe throughout my stay. Even though I saw a “bike bag snatch” which is not uncommon in many countries where there is a crowd. However, it was the first time I witnessed one. What surprised me, was how quickly the police appeared on the scene, impressive! Despite this, I walked day and night with no problem with a bit more caution. Besides, there were always some police officers somewhere on the streets, but not in any intimidating way.
Pakistan security is TIGHT!! On many streets, I aimlessly wandered or forgot my way back to the hotel, and passed by many security guards with big guns outside some of these residential properties. Even before the protest occurred, this seems to be the norm. Suffice it to say, I had an incident-free stay despite being caught in the city during the PTI Party protest. As previously mentioned, the roads leading in/out of the city were blocked for about a week and the internet was also limited. However, before this, I heard of no murders, etc., and felt safe throughout my stay.
HOW EXPENSIVE ARE THE ACCOMMODATIONS, MEALS, AND TRANSPORTATION?
Prices for everything in Islamabad, Pakistan are fairly inexpensive (the locals will disagree, due to an avg. monthly salary of $100.00 USD). Nonetheless, it could be listed as one of the cheapest countries to visit worldwide, because meals, accommodation, and all public transportation (metro, buses, and taxis) are relatively cheap and perfect for the budget traveller. For example, at a local restaurant, the price for a full meal (not junk food), drink included, averages $$3.00 USD – $5.00 USD. Additionally, the shopping scene for clothes, shoes, pashminas, etc. is also inexpensive.
Pakistan, Home to the World’s youngest Nobel Laureate Cont...
ABOUT PAKISTANI FOOD
Pakistani Cuisine is rooted in kitchens from the 16th century, with influences from the British, Central Asia, India, and Middle Eastern traditions. But, unlike Middle Eastern dishes Pakistani dishes are heavily spiced with ginger, turmeric, garlic, garam masala, and other spices.
Its most popular staple is roti which accompanies curries, stews, and lentils. Moreover, rice is also commonly served in spice or sweet dishes. A popular drink is Lassie, a traditional drink from the Punjab region, and black tea are popular beverages enjoyed nationwide.
TOP 5 PAKISTANI FOODS YOU MUST TRY
- Sajji (marinated, skewered whole chicken or lamb stuffed with potatoes or rice, and roasted over open fire).
- Biryani (the most loved dish in Pakistan. They cook this meaty, fragrant, rice in layers with plenty of meat, saffron, brown onions, lemon wedges, and parsley).
- Nihari (this stew of beef shank or mutton, cooked so tender it falls off the bone).
- Chaat ( hearty, healthy, and popular street food made from dahi bhalla (small round fried bread), potato chunks, chickpeas, diced tomatoes, pomegranate seeds, onions, and cubed apples. They then top it with yogurt, tamarind chutney, and mint, and sprinkle with chaat masala.
- Lassi, Doodh Patti Chai (cardamom-infused milk boiled with black tea leaves), and also Black Tea (traditional drinks from the Punjab region, these popular beverages are enjoyed nationwide).
TOP 5 MUST-SEE SITES OF INTEREST IN ISLAMABAD, PAKISTAN
To truly enjoy the beauty of Pakistan, the locals will advise you to go to the northern side of the country. Therefore you must put aside at least 2 or 3 days stay at a hotel in the region because the drive from Islamabad is approximately 12 hours one-way. From what I have heard, it is the most beautiful area in Pakistan. Regretfully the PTI protest thwarted my plans to visit due to road closures. However, for those intending to visit, Pakistan, it is highly recommended.
- The Faisal Masjid/Mosque (designed to resemble a Bedouin tent, it is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture and the biggest Mosque in Pakistan and the sixth-largest worldwide).
- Muree – Pakistan (about an hour-plus drive from Islamabad and the location for the local thrill of the Chair Ride is similar to the cable car. It is on a mountain top 6000 – 7000 feet above sea level, and is famous for its lush vegetation and scenic beauty and is a popular tourist attraction).
- Pakistan Monument and also the Museum (the museum holds Pakistan’s heritage from birth to major achievements and the monument is simply amazing).
- Daman-e-Koh (elevated park area that offers sweeping views of the city, lake, and Faisal Mosque).
- Khewra Salt Mines (take a trip out of the city to see this amazing site, which is less than two hours by bus).
Pakistan, Home to the World’s youngest Nobel Laureate Cont...
SUMMARY
Pakistan is an amazing country with overwhelming hospitality, gorgeous countryside, tasty cuisines, and hospitable people. It is a backpacker’s and budget traveller’s great find. As I always say, never take the negativity shown on television too seriously about any country, do your research, and go. Moreover, photographers and the adventurous would be happy in Pakistan because, as previously mentioned, it is scenic. In conclusion, I highly recommend Pakistan, home to the world’s youngest Nobel Laureate worldwide, to all travellers. Whether for its cuisine, landscapes, culture, history, or hospitality. Just Visit and Enjoy!
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