Islamabad is a planned city with wide, tree-lined boulevards and many green spaces for biking, jogging or daily outings. Travel within the city is easy; most destinations are just a 15 or 20 minute drive. The Margalla Hills define one edge of the city and boast well marked hiking trails to satisfy casual walkers, as well as challenge keen hikers.  Rawal Lake offers good public facilities and additional opportunities for outdoor activities.

 

Islamabad residents may choose to join a variety of affordable organizations, which provide a wide array of social, cultural and sports events and activities. These well established groups provide opportunities to meet the needs of both local and expatriate residents.

 

Islamabad residents enjoy a comfortable and active lifestyle which can include dining out, entertaining, , tennis, golf, horseback riding, cooking and photography classes, visiting museums and art galleries, participating in charitable organizations and a host of additional opportunities. Personal time and energy will be your main constraint.

 

Excellent medical care is available from doctors and dentists who have qualifications from  the United States or the United Kingdom.

 

Travel within Pakistan is affordable; the breath taking destinations are well worth the effort.  Several UNESCO World Heritage Sites are within an hour's drive of the city.

 

Residents will find a variety of places of worship to accommodate most spiritual needs within the community.  The majority of the residents celebrate Eid, and local businesses and offices observe government holidays. Dress within the capital is modest. The expatriate community respects local values by minimizing the wearing of sleeveless tops and pants above mid-calf, outside club venues.

 

Shopping is an eclectic mix of North American, European and Asian goods. Residents are able to find most of their favorite brands or acceptable substitutes. The adventurous may explore a treasure trove of exotic foods, spices and local products. Pakistan is home to artisans who can produce a wide variety of tailored clothing or world class furniture from a photograph. The city has a rich culture, which is reflected in the markets, events, art galleries and museums.

 

 

THE COUNTRY

 

When you view Pakistan on the map, you’ll see China to the northeast, old Russia to the north, Afghanistan and Iran to the west and India to the southeast. Imagine high mountain passes and the history of caravans moving back and forth between ancient cultures and the sights and smells of market trading. Pakistan is a land of contrasts with

the old and the modern side by side. Pakistan is also a country of spectacular beauty, culture, and diversity.

 

ISLAMABAD

 

Travel books offer the following description: “Pakistan’s new capital is nestled against the backdrop of the Margalla Hills, 15 kilometers from Rawalpindi. It is a modern and carefully planned city with wide tree lined streets, large houses, elegant public buildings and well-organized bazaars. The walkways are shaded, safe, and separated from the

traffic by rows of flame trees, jacaranda and hibiscus. Roses, jasmine and bougainvillea fill the parks, and scenic viewpoints show the city to its advantage.” In other words, we think you will thoroughly enjoy living and working in Islamabad. 

 

CLIMATE

 

From mid-September to mid-May, the weather in Islamabad is absolutely perfect. December and January are even a little chilly, and there are even mornings white with a hard frost. The monsoon season starts in June. Rains are heavy and the air very hot and humid.

 

SAFETY

 

This is a frequently asked question. Newspapers and CNN can create horrible images of what it must be like to live and work overseas. Islamabad remains a relatively safe environment. The local military and police have worked diligently to increase security in the city. Movement into and within the city has come under greater scrutiny.

 

WOMEN IN PAKISTAN

 

Women can drive automobiles and circulate in Islamabad without fear of harassment. Western dress is common; conservative dress would always be prudent.

 

TRAVEL

 

Several major airlines serve Islamabad directly, others via Karachi and Lahore. There are daily flights to Dubai. Car travel is relatively easy, but “defensive” driving will serve you well. Air travel within the country is inexpensive. Internal travel is often dictated by weather, road conditions, and security updates.  

 

 RECREATION

 

If you like to bicycle and hike, Islamabad will probably meet your recreational needs, but there is much more.  Both Islamabad and Rawalpindi have better-than-average golf courses.  Slow pitch softball, horseback riding, and yoga are popular weekend activities. The local Asian Study Group also schedules a wide variety of outings and events.  There are more than enough opportunities to occupy your leisure time.

 

CULTURAL ENTERTAINMENT

 

Maybe Islamabad falls short of New York City or London, but there are surprises and new discoveries.  Pakistan has unique cultural and tribal music. Again, the Asian Study Group sponsors a wide variety of cultural activities, programs and study groups.

 

SHOPPING

 

We hear few complaints about the availability of desired foods, meats and vegetables. If you are into carpets, leather, brass and antiques, Pakistan is where you want to be. The HillsClinic services coordinator  does provide new clients  with a lengthy list of what is, or is not available in the local markets. Electronics are readily available and should be purchased here to avoid import duties.

 

TECHNOLOGY

 

Broadband is available as is cable television. Both are exceptionally reasonable in cost.

 

FAMILY VISITS

 

Tourist visas can be obtained and clients are encouraged to invite parents, family members and friends to visit Pakistan. Many choose to have guests during the winter and spring holidays when the weather is ideal .