Language
Pashto, Dari, and the other languages spoken by Afghans are all official languages in Afghanistan. People living in Kabul, Mazar-e Sharif, Herat, and the rest of central Afghanistan mostly speak Dari while Pashto is found largely in southern and eastern regions. The remaining groups primarily speak a Turkic native language with 30+ other minor languages like English being a rare thing to find outside of Kabul.
The good thing about currency
Afghanistan is the gateway to Central Asia and is a great hub for travelers looking to visit nearby countries. Currency in Afghanistan is known as the Afg; US $1 is equivalent to around 45 to 50 Afg. Grocery items, as well as food for transport, can be inexpensive, with private taxi rides or accommodation being pretty expensive. ATMs are uncommon outside of Kabul and are typically only found if you’re taking a trip from somewhere else. The machines will only dispense USD or Afg, so it’s recommended that you carry a bit of cash with you at all times for ease of transactions.
Cash withdrawals are possible, but credit cards aren’t allowed in some establishments (airline offices, travel agents, and upscale hotels) in Kabul. However, savings can be made through Kabul Bank. As with any financial transaction in Afghanistan, it’s a good idea to do your research and ask for cash from reputable money changers on the street instead of independent currency exchangers.
Time
Afghanistan operates on a time zone of GMT +4.5.
Electricity
Electrical power in Afghanistan fluctuates with only 220V and 50Hz, which can be a bit overwhelming if you’re visiting the country. Power fluctuations can also lower voltage to up to 150V without fail, making it difficult to charge your devices and prepare for your trip. Adaptors are common and work best with British electrical systems, so pack some aspirin when you travel from the US or Canada.
Emoticons & Images
Disadvantages to fixed line services and mobile communications are minimal in major cities like Kabul, but outside of these major settlements, satellite phones are your only option. The most reliable satellite phone company is Thuraya, while mobile networks such as Afghan Wireless, Roshan, Areeba and Etisalat offer low rates for messaging and local calls. Roshan has the widest coverage area, but its rates are the lowest of all. International calling to the US and most parts of Europe is also affordable.
With the prevalence of internet cafés across Kabul, it is easy to find internet here. ASSA II Net Cafe is on the ground floor of Assa II guesthouse and there’s wireless in some coffee houses.
Duty-free shopping
The customs office has specified a list of goods which can be imported without incurring any customs duty. They are: 1) alcoholic beverages and tobacco products for personal use, 2) film cameras without a license, 3) precious stones that don’t exceed SEK 100 in value, 4) antiques with a value up to SEK 350,000 or handicrafts with limited quantities up to SEK 6,000.
