AFGHANISTAN: A COUNTRY BEYOND THE HEADLINES
- Lauren Weekly
- Jan 7
- 4 min read
Updated: Jan 13
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learnt through travel is to never judge a place based on what you’ve heard. Until you’ve walked its streets, spoken to its people, and seen its beauty with your own eyes, you’re only getting part of the story. Afghanistan taught me this in the most profound way.
When you hear the word "Afghanistan" what comes to mind? For many, it’s images of conflict, stories of war, or headlines filled with political turmoil. But what if I told you that Afghanistan is so much more than the narrative we’ve been fed? I’ll be honest, I didn’t know much about Afghanistan beyond what I’d seen in the news before I started planning my trip.
Like most people, I’d heard the stories and seen the images, but I had no idea about the breath-taking beauty, the rich history, or the warmth of its people. And that’s okay, it’s natural not to know much about a place you’ve never been. What’s not okay is how the world completely overlooks the incredible places and stories that Afghanistan holds.
That doesn’t mean I agree with every aspect of Afghanistan or its culture. I recognize the significant challenges the country faces, particularly regarding women’s rights and social inequalities. However, it’s important to remember that no country is without its struggles, and Afghanistan’s beauty, resilience, and rich culture deserve to be seen and appreciated beyond its challenges.
During my travels, I discovered some of Afghanistan’s most remarkable destinations, each reflecting the country’s rich history, natural beauty, and unshakable spirit. From lively cities filled with culture to tranquil landscapes that seem almost untouched by time, these places offer a glimpse into a side of Afghanistan rarely shown.
Known for It's stunning Blue Mosque, the city of Mazar-I-Sharif feels like a sanctuary of peace and spirituality. The blue mosque, with its turquoise tiles and vibrant courtyard, is not just an architectural marvel but also a hub of culture and devotion. Walking through the bustling markets nearby, you can’t help but feel the heartbeat of a city rich in tradition.
It’s also famous for its delicious plov, a fragrant rice dish that’s a staple of Afghan cuisine, and some of the best traditional ice cream. Every corner of Mazar-i-Sharif offers something to savour, both for the eyes and the taste buds.
Kabul, the capital city is a kaleidoscope of contrasts, modern buildings stand alongside ancient ruins, and lively bazaars echo with the sounds of daily life. Combined with the tranquil charm of Babur’s Garden, where terraced landscapes offer a serene retreat, Kabul reveals itself as a city of resilience and complexity, where history and culture intertwine with everyday life.
A visit to the bustling Mandawia Market offers a sensory feast, with stalls brimming with colourful fabrics, handcrafted wares, and traditional Afghan goods. Nearby, Chicken Street beckons with its antiques, intricate carpets, and jewellery, reflecting the city’s rich cultural heritage. Kabul is a city with so much peace, and yet so much chaos.
Nestled in a valley surrounded by breathtaking mountains, Bamyan is a city where history and natural beauty collide. Once home to the towering Buddha statues that were tragically destroyed, the area still tells the story of its rich Buddhist past. The quiet charm of the surrounding villages makes Bamyan a place you’ll never forget.
The famous Red City, an ancient fortress carved into the cliffs, feels like stepping back in time and offers views that are simply unforgettable.
This was my favourite stop of my travels, not only for its ancient sights but also for the sense of serenity and timelessness that seems to linger in the air.
However, the true heart of Afghanistan does not sit with these places, it stands with its people.
Everywhere I went, I was met with warmth, kindness, and a level of hospitality that I’ve rarely encountered in my travels. Strangers offered tea, shared their stories, and treated me like family, even if I was just passing through. Their smiles and generosity left a mark on me that no photo or souvenir ever could.
It’s heart-breaking to think that for so many, the image of Afghanistan’s people has been reduced to a single narrative of violence and extremism. The truth is, the vast majority of Afghans are ordinary, beautiful souls living their lives with dignity, hope, and resilience.
As a woman traveling in Afghanistan, I quickly realized the importance of respecting local customs, particularly those tied to Islamic values. Wearing modest clothing, including a headscarf, is a way to respect for the culture. I wore a loose-fitting dress over trousers, paired with a headscarf to cover my hair.
One aspect of the culture that stood out to me was the way gender roles shaped public spaces. In restaurants, there were separate seating areas for men, and women who were accompanied by men, which felt unfamiliar at first but soon became an interesting window into Afghan traditions. In these settings, I had a few encounters with Afghan women who approached me out of curiosity, to welcome me to their country, and thanked me for coming.
Leaving Afghanistan was the first time I felt truly emotional saying goodbye to a country. Walking across the Friendship Bridge between Afghanistan and Uzbekistan, I couldn’t help but reflect on how much my mindset had changed since I first crossed it. I was filled with joy, my heart overflowing with gratitude for he people I’d met, the breath-taking places I’d explored, and the lessons I’d learned. I was no longer the same person who just a week earlier, had stood on this very bridge, pale and nervous, uncertain about what lay ahead and how I would be treated upon entering Afghanistan. If only I knew.
So here’s my challenge to you.... Next time you hear about Afghanistan, don’t let your mind go straight to the headlines. Think of the Hindu Kush, Bamyan, or Band-e-Amir. Think of the warm smiles and the cups of tea shared with strangers. Afghanistan is a country that deserves to be seen, celebrated, and understood for everything. It truly is a place of unparalleled beauty, resilience, and humanity.