Earlier this we visited Karachi, Pakistan, and would recommend it to anyone as a place to visit.  We were there during the hot season (May) which is not advised.

It is not a typical tourist destination and we didn't see any other tourists at all. There aren't a lot of sights to see but we found the culture interesting and the people warm and welcoming.  It is important to be sensitive to the culture and both men and women should dress modestly.  The food was great but we did need to be careful.

Photo captions:

1. The city is filled with thousands of small vendors who are trying to make enough to live.  We saw no larger stores like supermarkets or department stores.  Instead the city has some huge bazaars which are very interesting and quite reasonably priced. You must barter for nearly everything.


2. There are no boring busses or trucks in Karachi.  They are fabulously decorated some are art in motion.  The vehicle in the front is a Pakistani rickshaw which are cheap and fun.  A friend describes them as being like Disneyland but without the safety features!


3. The fruit and vegetables at the Empress market looked great. Unfortunately, everything needs to be soak/peeled before eating. Some of the food at the vendors looked good but we were told to avoid it all.


4. Even the meat looked good.  I think it helps to shop early in the day before it gets too hot.


5. Being next to Iran, they make great "Persian" rugs. This guy was using wool and the pattern was totally in his head.

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