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Country Guide > Asia > Afghanistan | |
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Social Profile Food & Drink Indian-style cuisine. Most modern restaurants in Kabul offer international cuisine as well as Afghan specialities such as pilau and kebabs. Traditional foods and tea from chai khanas are found in all areas at low prices, which normally include service. Afghan dishes can be very good, but spicy, so visitors should consider this when ordering. Shopping Special purchases include Turkman hats, Kandahar embroidery, Istaff pottery, local glassware from Herat, nomad jewellery, handmade carpets and rugs, Nuristani woodcarving, silkware, brass, copper and silverwork. Note: Many craft items may only be exported under licence. Shopping hours: Generally Sat-Wed 0800-1200 and 1300-1630, Thurs 0800-1330. Special Events The following is a selection of special events occurring in Afghanistan in 2005: Jan 21 Eid al-Adha (Feast of the Sacrifice). Mar 22 Navrus (New Days). Apr 21 Mawlid an-Nabi (Birth of the Prophet). Oct-Nov Ramadan. Nov 3-5 Eid ul-Fitr (End of Ramadan). Social Conventions Outside Kabul, Afghanistan is still very much a tribal society. Religion and traditional customs have a strong influence within the family, and there are strict male and female roles in society. It is considered insulting to show the soles of the feet. Guests may have to share a room as specific accommodation is rarely set aside. Women are advised to wear trousers or long skirts and avoid revealing dress. Homosexuality is illegal. The importation and use of narcotics, alcohol and pork products are forbidden. Handshaking is an acceptable form of greeting, though nose-rubbing and embracing are more traditional. Smoking is a common social habit and tobacco is cheap by European standards. It is a compliment to accept an offered cigarette from your host. Photography: Care should be taken when using cameras. Military installations should not be photographed. |