Vacation In Kabul
It’s my great pleasure to present the third edition of “Vacation In Kabul”, a compilation of short stories that’ll take you on a journey to Afghanistan, with stops in Paris and Toronto. With essays by Michael Ellison, Colin McAdam and Amal El-Mohtar, you’ll find a rich variety of writing styles. You’ll also find two stories from me, written in March & July 2012.
The most dangerous city in the world, the pinnacle of international espionage, an urban labyrinth in which no one can be trusted: Kabul is all this at once. The ancient fortress city, located in a ravine on the outskirts of Afghanistan, welcomes tourists and its narrow alleyways hide hundreds of years of culture and tradition.
It was no surprise that Alissa had not come by the office. That wasn’t like her at all. She was always here, right by my side. I knew she was getting ready for the long weekend, because she had told me the day before she wanted to take the trip. An idea I had protested – against her and for both our sakes – but now I didn’t want to think about how she might have gotten there safely, given the recent increase in violence in Kabul even within the last few weeks, what with suicide bombers taking out a busload of kids while they were going to school just three nights ago.
Vacation In Kabul
The Taleban was active in Kabul, and the city’s only lethal airstrikes since they fell from power were after the assassination of President Burhanuddin Rabbani. It was not a fun time to be a journalist in Afghanistan, especially if you were a Western journalist in Kabul.
Afghanistan – AVOID ALL TRAVEL
Avoid all travel to Afghanistan due to the security situation, terrorist attacks, ongoing armed conflict, risk of kidnapping and high crime rate.
Canada’s evacuation operations have ended. The risk for terrorist attacks is very high, especially around the airport. Until the security situation has stabilized, you should shelter in a safe place. Keep in mind that you are responsible for your own safety and that of your family.
The Embassy of Canada in Afghanistan has suspended its operations. Our ability to provide consular assistance and other support in this country is extremely limited. Canadians in need of consular assistance should contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.
We strongly recommend that Canadians sign up with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service to receive important information.
Security situation
Several terrorist attacks have recently occurred, especially targeting Hamid Karzai International Airport, in Kabul. These violent incidents have resulted in numerous casualties.
The security situation is highly volatile. The potential for further attacks remains extremely high. Violent incidents could occur across the country. A nationwide curfew is in effect from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m.
Travelling throughout the country is extremely dangerous, including in Kabul. There are checkpoints on all roads and throughout cities. Some borders are closed or may close without notice. Border crossing is risky. Until the situation has stabilized, you should shelter in a safe place. Keep in mind that you are responsible for your own safety and that of your family.
- Avoid travelling to the airport and standing at the gates
- Use your judgement to decide the best time and the safest means of exit if you need to move to a safer location
- Monitor media to stay informed about the latest developments
The Embassy of Canada in Afghanistan has suspended its operations. Our ability to provide consular assistance in this country is extremely limited. If you have successfully made your way out of the country and require consular assistance, contact the nearest Canadian office.
COVID-19 – Preventative measures and restrictions
COVID-19 preventative measures and restrictions are still in effect in some destinations.
These could include:
- curfews, movement restrictions, or lockdowns
- mandatory mask use
- required proof of vaccination or a COVID-19 test result to access public and private services and spaces
Before travelling, verify if specific restrictions or requirements are still in effect.
Foreign Representatives in Canada
Afghanistan is not a safe environment for travel. The security situation is extremely volatile and unpredictable. Attempting any travel, including adventure or recreational in this hazardous security environment, places you and others at grave risk of abduction, injury or death.
In August 2021, the Government of Afghanistan collapsed, and insurgents now occupy most of the country, including the capital, Kabul. Foreigners whose country of origin has supported the U.S.-led coalition forces, including Canadians, are preferred targets for terrorist attacks and kidnapping.
Criminals taking advantage of the unstable security situation are committing violent attacks.
Terrorism and criminal violence
Attacks in Kabul occur often. There’s an extremely high and continuous threat of terrorism and criminal violence. Terrorists and criminals carry out attacks throughout the country, including all major cities. These attacks are not restricted to particular areas of those cities, they can occur in reputable public areas frequented by foreigners, particularly at the Serena Hotel. No location in Afghanistan can be considered safe or exempt from the threat of attack.
Extremist organizations continue to plan attacks against a variety of targets in Afghanistan. There is a heightened risk of attacks targeting:
- foreigners
- western interests
- human rights defenders
- journalists and media workers
- judges and prosecutors
- religious scholars
- healthcare workers
- political analysts
- police officers
- civil servants
- other civilians
Attacks are completely unpredictable. Targets could include:
- government buildings, including schools
- security and defence personnel
- places of worship
- airports and other transportation hubs and networks
- public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels, medical facilities and other sites frequented by foreigners
In addition to targeted attacks, terrorist groups periodically fire multiple unguided rockets into central Kabul. These rockets are generally aimed at the airport, the Serena Hotel, embassies, and government or military facilities but can land anywhere in the central area of the city.
If you are in Afghanistan:
- always be aware of your surroundings when in public places
- exercise extreme caution at all times
- be particularly vigilant during and prior to days of national significance
Types of violent attacks
Tactics used by criminals include body- and vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices and firing rockets. Armed assaults and ambushes are also common.
Other types of violent attack also occur, including armed robbery, carjacking and sexual and gender-based violence and harassment. Weapons are readily available throughout the country and the number of civilian causalities is high.
- Avoid showing signs of affluence or carrying large sums of money
- Ensure that your personal belongings, passports and other travel documents are secure at all times
Kidnapping
Kidnapping for ransom has become a lucrative practice. There’s an extreme risk of kidnapping of foreign nationals. Criminals have kidnapped and sometimes killed Westerners, including tourists, journalists, teachers, doctors and non-government organization workers. Journalists may be lured with offers of interviews, when the real purpose is to kidnap them.
Several organizations, including terrorist groups and criminal gangs, are responsible for these kidnappings. These groups will target anyone perceived to have money for kidnapping or extortion purposes. Kidnap-for-ransom groups may also sell their captives to terrorist groups, with victims potentially facing years in captivity.
Demonstrations
Demonstrations, including anti-Western demonstrations and civil unrest, may occur throughout Afghanistan. Some demonstrations have become violent and have suffered terrorist attacks, causing death and injury. Demonstrations can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.
- Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
- Follow the instructions of local authorities
- Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations
More about mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Landmines
Millions of landmines pose a severe threat throughout the countryside. No area is safe.
Road safety
Road conditions and road safety are poor throughout the country. Drivers often drive at excessive speeds. Drivers are aggressive and reckless. Drivers do not respect traffic laws, and Afghan police do not enforce them.
Accidents causing fatalities are common.
Overland travel
Overland travel is extremely dangerous, including in Kabul. Banditry by armed groups is common. Terrorist and criminal groups may set up fake checkpoints and road-blacks with the intent of robbery, kidnapping or other violent attacks. Military and police forces are inadequate.
- Avoid undertaking overland travel unless you’re accompanied by armed security guards
- Plan any road travel very carefully
- Always travel in groups
Air travel
We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.
General information about foreign domestic airlines
Women’s safety
Women may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse. Women should:
- travel in groups
- not travel alone at night
Afghan authorities have detained women who have reported a sexual assault. Women must prove that the sex was not consensual to avoid criminal charges under extramarital sex statutes.
Forced marriages
Forced marriage affecting foreigners occur. It sometimes occurs without the affected person’s prior knowledge or consent.
General information and advice about forced marriage
General safety information
Be aware that:
- basic infrastructure services such as electricity and telephones are minimal, even in urban areas
- food and water shortages are common
- foreigners should avoid travelling at night
- there is no safe area with adequate police coverage
The Government of Afghanistan collapsed in August 2021. All travel to and out of the country is severely restricted. Borders are closed or may close suddenly.
Regular entry and exit requirements may not apply at this time. They could also change without notice.
The situation is volatile and evolves quickly. Avoid travelling to Afghanistan.
COVID-19 – Entry, exit and transit restrictions and requirements
Most governments have implemented special entry and exit restrictions and requirements for their territory due to COVID-19. These measures can be imposed suddenly and may include:
- entry or exit bans
- quarantine
- mandatory proof of vaccination or COVID-19 testing
- suspensions or reductions of international transportation options
Foreign authorities might not recognize or accept proof of vaccination issued by Canadian provinces and territories. You may need to obtain a translation, a notarization, an authentication, or the legalization of the document.
Before travelling:
- verify if the local authorities of both your current location and destinations have implemented any restrictions or requirements related to this situation
- consider even your transit points, as there are transit rules in place in many destinations
- monitor the media for the latest information
- reconfirm the requirements with your airline or tour operator
The situation could disrupt your travel plans. You should not depend on the Government of Canada for assistance to change your travel plans.
Useful links
- Travel restrictions and health requirements – United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and International Air Transport Association (IATA)
- Foreign Representatives in Canada
Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.
We have obtained the information on this page from Afghan authorities. It can, however, change at any time.
Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.
Passport
Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.
Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.
Regular Canadian passport
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave from Afghanistan.
Passport for official travel
Different entry rules may apply.
Passport with “X” gender identifier
While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.
