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We need to be honest, Pakistan is not an easy country to travel in: travel blogger Alex

We need to be honest, Pakistan is not an easy country to travel in: travel blogger Alex

Alex was asked to speak at the Pakistan Tourism Summit but says she was censored because her speech was deemed critical.
Updated 15 Apr, 2019

Alex, American traveller behind the travel blog Lost With Purpose, was invited to speak at the Pakistan Tourism Summit last month. However, she says her talk was cancelled last minute as the organisers said it was too critical and didn't fit the agenda of the summit.

After being "silenced", she decided to upload her talk on Facebook.

In the 15-minute video, Alex feels the PTS failed to fulfill its purpose because the organisers only wanted her to talk about how "awesome Pakistan" is, but refused to address the real concerns Pakistan's tourism may face, which is why she took to social media to share the issues.

"Pakistan is really cool and has a lot of potential", she says, before she starts but explains that "the social media coverage of Pakistan right now is dangerous for the future of the country's tourism."

Here's what she wanted to say at the summit.

1. "Pakistan is not an easy country to travel in and the current social media coverage of it is misleading"

Alex says that the "oversimplification of travel in Pakistan" creates problems for independent travellers as they're likely to encounter unofficial restrictions, harassment from officials, unclear bureaucratic procedures and mandatory armed escorts.

Also read: Another foreign traveller is in Pakistan and she wants you to know our country is 'safe'

"In my own experience, security agencies have harassed me or my hosts in every single province that I've been to: Sindh Punjab, KPK and Gilgit-Baltistan. If we're going to advertise Pakistan as the next great travel destination for people instead of the experienced adventure travelers who have been coming here so far there needs to be a logistical overhaul."

Her solution? Firstly, the government can either remove the NOC restrictions all across Pakistan or publish a list stating where one needs an NOC when travelling in the country. Secondly, the police and security forces need to stop harassing foreigners. Thirdly, the government and media need to stop publicising these policy changes unless they've been enacted.

2. "The social media coverage is concerning - not everyone is going to have the same experiences as these white, Western influencers."

This severe lack of representation is a major setback because majority of the travellers in Pakistan are not white.

"Pakistan has a gora complex, a hangover from the colonial era. White people are put on a high pedestal in Pakistan and they receive royal treatment when they come here. Travelers of colour? Not so much.

"Pakistani travelers are not going to have the same experiences as these white influencers are. Pakistani tourists won't receive security escorts when they go to sensitive areas. Pakistani backpackers aren't going to get free handouts just because they walked down the street. Pakistani girls are not going to be celebrated or encouraged to ride bikes or motorbikes around the country like their foreign counterparts.

Also read: The Pakistan Tourism Summit features international travel bloggers, but where are the local influencers?

"I experience this first hand as most people think I'm Pakistani when I walk around. Pakistani women message me all the time on my blog that they want come and travel to Pakistan but they're worried because they're not going to receive the same welcome as these white or foreign travelers do."

Her solution? Pakistan, get over this colonial hangover. You do not need white travellers to validate your country. Travellers of colour need to know what to expect when coming here and who better to set expectations than local influencers who look like them and come from their culture? Representation matters.

Pakistan has an immense pool of local talent of photographers, vloggers, bloggers, who have been documenting the country much longer than any foreigner has. The government and the media need to support more local influencers and influencers of colour; hire them for campaigns, take them on as hosts for travel shows, include them in discussions and talks and share their content.

3. "Potential for cultural clashes in Pakistan is immense"

To be more direct, when she talks about cultural clashes, Alex is talking about the cultural sensitivities of the people in Pakistan.

"You have to be careful when traveling here, and the media coverage says nothing about that. Tourists don't realise that they should keep their atheistic beliefs silent at the dinner table. Couples might not realise they cannot kiss in public or even hold hands, and that it's better to say that they're married if they're not.

"Men can't realise how risky it may be to flirt with a Pakistani woman especially in front of her brothers, fathers or male cousins. Many women may not realise that they might be the only woman on the street more often than not and men might interpret their public presence as a sexual invitation, rather than what it actually is, travelling."

Also read: This photo highlights how we apply different standards to desi women versus foreign women

Her solution? Government and media have to start promoting transparency instead of only promoting highly positive narratives about travel.

She says one should be honest about what it's like to travel here. "Stop flaming, guilting and trying to censor anyone who says or shows something that makes you a little uncomfortable. It's okay to have criticism about a country.

"Despite all these difficulties, people like me have still fallen in love with your country. But the potential has to be managed properly. I just want to help other travellers come to this country and experience what I have - in order to do that the existing problems need to be looked at with a critical eye. I think Pakistan is worth the hype," she concludes.

Comments

Guardian Apr 14, 2019 10:13pm
Thanks for FACT-Check!
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Must learn Apr 14, 2019 10:21pm
She’s 100% right.
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Syed Hafeez Imran Apr 14, 2019 10:21pm
some valid comments another instance of our "Ostrich in the Sand" complex Unless we face reality, knoe the problems and issues, how on earth canwe even start thinking of improving, or correcting these just denying them or swepingthm, under the carpet isiNOT the solution only makes things worse
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hassan Apr 14, 2019 10:23pm
BRAVO!
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Mujtaba Apr 14, 2019 10:24pm
Every word is true!
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Shan Mumtaz Apr 14, 2019 10:29pm
What an outstanding and true write-up as well as experince. Aptly said, that here,in Pakistan, we have double standards: one for desi and other for foreigner women. Also, in our tourism structure, local tourist has been neglected at large in terms of facilitation. I urge that, for foreigners, this is a serious matter to travel to Pakistan and we people are making it simple just to gain credit and, of course, commercial gains are involved too. Albeit, this article was candid and touching the veracity.
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arfan aslam khan Apr 14, 2019 10:31pm
WHY this lady is critising Pakistan for travelling,NAME one country in the WORLD that is safe for anybody let alone travellers,ANYWHERE in Europe is more dangerous than any where else,Maybe she had a bad experience in one incident,that does exclude whole of Pakistan.At the moment Europe is more unsafe with so many KNIFE attacks than some of the Asian countries.So I would not believe what Alex THE Amercian girl wrote about Pakistan.
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Nasir Apr 14, 2019 10:31pm
Finally someone who can speak the truth about tourism in Pakistan - the bottom lime is imran Khan needs to make it safe and remove corruption , and most importantly allow people to speak their mind , after all we are not communists but a democracy
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Hasnain Haque Apr 14, 2019 10:33pm
You are absolutely right and Pakistan shouldn’t just rely on Gora tourism.
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NOONARI THUL Apr 14, 2019 10:34pm
Alex is true, how to travelers visit Pakistan, In Pakistan, few cities are safe but others are sensitive. we can see Pakistan minister,s they don't go without protocol
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shami1 Apr 14, 2019 10:35pm
Excellent analysis and suggestion. Btw I heard that Pakistan Interior ministry removed the travel restriction on foreign travellers. Its always recommended to travel in groups instead of lonely for your own safety. Even if you prefer to travel alone, you might face some admistrative issues like to get NOC or police escort but no one will dare to harm you.
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Adeel Apr 14, 2019 10:37pm
Frankly the points are not real issues and it exists in almost all countries. Seems the lady wants to present a negative image for no reasons. Good that she was stopped.
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Deneb Apr 14, 2019 10:42pm
I don’t see what is incorrect in her comments. A true reflection of what we’ve become as a nation.
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waztaz Apr 14, 2019 10:48pm
I commend for telling the truth and by pointing out the weaknesses so we can improve our tourism industry. India tourism industry made the error of highlighting only the positives or the exotic but a number of high profile incidents regarding women safety has left a negative impression in the minds of many foreigners and damaged its reputation. We can avoid those mistakes by working on our weaknesses and giving an honest guide to foreigners interested in visiting the country and Alex did a good job in highlighting the problem.
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Saeed Apr 14, 2019 10:49pm
1.at least here security personals do not remove your clothes in the name of checking/security 2.i daily see, on my way to office in lahore, a number of females riding bikes or scooter. 3.its culture, every country, region have its own culture you have to do your homework before visiting any region. WHEN YOU ARE IN ROME DO AS THE ROMANS DO. Bottom line is which issues she addressed are pretty much common in all countires.
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nastik Apr 14, 2019 10:50pm
Wow....simply fantastic! I could not have said it any better. Without being critical I think the first couple can be overcome with a lot of instrospection and work, the last one will only be accomplished after maybe a 100 yrs or so starting now - but really the first ones should be worked on now because the last one will become irrelevant in due course anyway...
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Uzair Apr 14, 2019 10:53pm
Seems reasonable. The government needs to put in more effort to bring about the change they say, rather than only talking about the end results, without putting in the work. If we don't listen people out, how would we know if and where issues are, so we might find solutions to them.
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Insaaf hoga zaroor hoga Apr 14, 2019 10:59pm
Shes basically complaining because she didn't get the royal treatment that white travellers do.
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King Khan Apr 14, 2019 11:00pm
Great article. Alex is an intelligent person and I really appreciate her for putting in the effort to talk about the future of tourism in Pakistan. Anyone who wants Pakistan to be a tourist haven should listen to her. We have a long way to go to make Pakistan the number 1 destination in the world and believe me our country has the potential. More power to you Alex.
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Combaticus Apr 14, 2019 11:01pm
This is a very honest view - good job and shame on the government for not letting you speak at the seminar. If you don't identify the problems, how are you going to fix them ?
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Jimmy Apr 14, 2019 11:04pm
Most of what shes mentioned could be attributed to any country including US. Security checks are necessary for travellers safety and considering Pakistan's war on terror; safety of its own people.
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Khan Apr 14, 2019 11:09pm
You have got published in dawn.what else do you want lady?critic for good is always wellcomed dear in pakistan.it may not be wellcomed in US as well.its not india.i wish you go there as well and be safe.good luck
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Jimmy Adil Apr 14, 2019 11:14pm
That is true and nothing wrong as long as you understand local norms and sensitivities. I am coming to Pakistan.
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Pakistan Lover Apr 14, 2019 11:16pm
Alex is virtually correct. still, a long way to go to create a free and healthy environment for tourism in Pakistan. As she appreciated Pakistani are one of the most hospitable in the whole world. Even they give others what they should have provided to their own children. Pakistan has plenty of marvelous tourist places yet to be explored, developed and advertised. Pakistan is also blessed in many ways and full of resources but having bureaucratic managerial issues. On the other hand, She is absolutely correct. A foreigner in general and Gora, in particular, requires faces many challenges i.e., Non-Objection Certificate from Ministry of Interior/ Foreign Affairs. Unofficial Harassment of Intelligence Agencies including local police is also unacceptable is we really wanna this country a booming tourist place. People should also have to change the mindset by not to ogling at foreigners. The government also has to withdraw unnecessary check and treat them like ordinary foreigners not like diplomats protocols. We have all potential but yet to be explored.
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zakuttar Apr 14, 2019 11:24pm
Kudos to Dawn for publishing this.
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SKY Apr 14, 2019 11:34pm
As a Pakistani I agree with most of her concerns, specially the last point she raised...
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Ahmed Apr 14, 2019 11:35pm
Good video.. it is important to tell the truth and not hide inconvenient facts. For some reason, the tendency in Pakistan is to avoid the truth and bury head in the sand when it comes to facing inconvenient facts.
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chengez k Apr 14, 2019 11:36pm
All valid points......in fact good feedback to start with !!!!
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Sid Apr 14, 2019 11:37pm
Alex is 100% correct, as a Pakistani, I agree that Pakistani govt bureaucracy and Security Agencies need to stop harassing locals and foreigners as well as be open to criticism.
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Singh k Apr 14, 2019 11:40pm
Thank You for sharing your views, as it is very important to be allowed to say "How much you Hate before you can say How much you Love" I would have loved to visit Pakistan but the points you raised are the same ones that do not help, as it is a very scary place due to false security assurances.
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Ibrahim Apr 14, 2019 11:40pm
Pakistanis have a hard time telling the truth. Ignorance is the desire to see things the way we want them to be, regardless of the facts.
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Ahsan Gul Apr 14, 2019 11:41pm
She is absolutely right about tourism. But under the new government PTI situation may improve. We all need to have patience as it is too early 6 months to judge this government.
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Daskalos Apr 14, 2019 11:47pm
Many direct and honest truths. I would please like to add that, despite all the official hype , many parts of Pakistan, specially in KPK, are still not fully safe for foreign travellers. An accident or mishap is only waiting to happen in some areas of Swat, Chitral and such areas. Please beware and regulate travel to such zones.
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Nadeem Apr 14, 2019 11:49pm
Here you go-censorship in digital media age!
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M. Saeed Apr 14, 2019 11:49pm
Pakistan is not an easy country to travel in, even by Pakistani families, not to speak of foreigners, especially females.
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Sid Apr 14, 2019 11:51pm
Agree but would say it’s harder for women than it is for men ... The country needs more education and prosperity before these issues can be addressed head on.
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Hamid Ali Apr 14, 2019 11:52pm
Truly said. An eye opening message
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Human Apr 14, 2019 11:53pm
Patience madam. All travellers coming to Pakistan love it here. And local tourists flock in huge numbers all the time. To inform you, females, local and foreign have been traveling alone here, even on bikes. No negativity please.
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Pro Bono Publico Apr 14, 2019 11:53pm
Until and unless positive feedback from the foreign tourists is received with honesty and intention to make corrections, we cannot achieve what we want to achieve . I think Alex has made positive suggestions and they should be listened to with care and consideration.
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Fastrack Apr 14, 2019 11:56pm
We understand your anger. We also know what 99% of foreign visitors say about Pakistan.
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Alishba Apr 15, 2019 12:09am
Agree with her.
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emad Apr 15, 2019 12:10am
every sensible understand what she mentioned.
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annie Apr 15, 2019 12:15am
Being a woman on streets of Pakistan, I have had men in car, on foot, on motor bikes chase me, follow me, stop my path and try to surround me. I ran away and was saved. Middle class in Karachi wearing a chaddar on my shalwar kamiz yet.. Not saying that other countries are 100% safe for women. jerks exist everywhere. It is better if we are honest and correct the situation rather than saying Pakistan is safe for women to travel alone. Pakistani people have shown acceptance of Pakistani women becoming more independent but we still need improvements. Besides with the beautiful landscape, mountains, history, birthplace of a civilization we have so much to offer. Tourism is a lot more than just white people coming and praising you. It is about a complete branding of your local culture, landscape and safety for all.
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a Apr 15, 2019 12:17am
Scary
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Nadir Has a Apr 15, 2019 12:19am
Spot on!!!
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Dr. Faazil Ahmed Apr 15, 2019 12:21am
Stay in USA, don’t come back if you find it so restrictive
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Naya Pakistan Apr 15, 2019 12:23am
What Alex has said is true 200% in my point of view. I feel she is truthful and honest what she felt or observed she has mentioned it and she feels we can make amendments to improve conditions so that more can travel and enjoy their stay in Pakistan. I am a Pakistani living abroad I feel the same whenever I visited Pakistan.
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Reality Check Apr 15, 2019 12:24am
She does have an element of truth to her concerns but not well founded. Mark Wiens isn't white or English but the attention he got was more than any white foreigner ever got. She is mistaking the hospitality with colonial complex. Pakistani don't like their own women to be as independent as Alex and who can deny that she actually looks like a desi girl with issues.
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Aziz Apr 15, 2019 12:24am
She has pointed out some valid concerns which IK should consider if he is serious in promoting tourism in Pakistan.
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Atif Khan Apr 15, 2019 12:25am
Just outstanding. She has nailed it. Make her the “Pakistan’s special representative on Tourism directly reporting to Imran Khan (i.e. Minister of interior) on a four year contract.
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RIZ Apr 15, 2019 12:26am
Most of the Pakistan is very secure thanks to the govt. and Brave Pakistan Forces and columnist could have done better job by making better headline which doesn't create negative impression. I would challenge you try to travel to India and you will find out how insecure India is not only for women but for men too and I am not saying this it's the stats and int'l warnings specially for women travelers to India.
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Aimal Apr 15, 2019 12:28am
This has been a problem with the people managing the affairs of this nation. Denial will lead Pakistan no where. It is painful but at the same time, success yielding if the captains of the country gets the courage to face the reality and call spade a spade.
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Tariq Apr 15, 2019 12:32am
She is absolutely right...we needs lot of improvement to attract tourist from all around the world..
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Azad Apr 15, 2019 12:35am
'colonial hangover' lol ..... have you been India?
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Hamza Apr 15, 2019 12:44am
I was waiting for someone to go on about this. Completely true and issues must be fixed asap
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Adam Apr 15, 2019 01:03am
So let me get this straight. A third world country is trying it's best to open it's tourism to the world. It's been suffering from terrorism with over 70,000 Innocent people killed, poverty, lack of basic amenities, power shortages, etc u get the picture. Finally it attracts some positive feedback from independent travellers. And this lady is judging Pakistan from the perspective of a modern educated westerner? Lady, u do realize this colonial hangover that u refer to does concern a people of whom the vast majority of them are not as educated or worldy viewed as yourself. So what's next? Let's cure Pakistans racism? Lmao. Just look at the issues you are trying to address and then look at the context in which you want to address them in. Pakistan certainly has issues. Lots of them. And they can be addressed in a much more productive manner . Constructive criticism helps. Judging a country based on YOUR own world view and perspective only leads to.mis understanding.
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khan Apr 15, 2019 01:09am
propaganda at it's peak
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Newborn Apr 15, 2019 01:10am
Mark Weins, Drew Binsky and Trevor James are much better travel bloggers. Even that American Rakshawala is great.
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Rehmat Ali Apr 15, 2019 01:21am
Agree with the contents of the article.
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Sayyar Khan Apr 15, 2019 01:21am
No one in Pakistan likes the truth been told. Finally a good article.
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Gypsy Apr 15, 2019 01:24am
Thanks for airing your concerns, though many aspects like harassment by local authorities can be valid anywhere, including neighbouring India, even the usual treatment at US Airports for travellers of particular origin is far from ideal. The need to know local sensitivities like kissing in public, religious beliefs etc is also not unique to Pakistan, this true even in places like Dubai, Singapore. You dont need to be upset, if an event was organized to promote Pakistan, your presentation full of criticism would have not been suitable, hence if the organizers avoided it, its quite natural and would be the same anywhere in the world. Perhaps the manner in which you are putting up grievences is not the best. We all know our country has loads of problems but its the first time in the recent history we started to receive tourists in our country. So please be mindful of that, but still share your feedback so we can improve.
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sajjad Apr 15, 2019 01:27am
really really really cool honest presentation. This should have been presented in summit for the proper managing of the travel campaign. Summit organizer must have been illogical, inexperienced, quality-less manager to deny her presentation. There is all way possible solutions she has described. Police is pain in the a** of not only travelers but local public much more since its birth. bribery and harassment by security officials could easily be traced, punished and stopped in the first hand if intention exists. Definitely cultural clashes are everywhere in the world. Public can be made aware to respect and care the guests travelers by media campaign. Travelling can be made easy by removing security issues that would take some more time, but dedicated departments could be established for swift response and help and provide special services of logistics all the time. Thank you Alex, please keep us posted and help us to grow positive.
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Newborn Apr 15, 2019 01:42am
Her YouTube channel hardly has 1000 subscribers. Looks to me like a bad attempt of gaining more views. Pakistan is such an easy target.
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Hassaan Apr 15, 2019 01:45am
@arfan aslam khan Just listen to her keeping your biases aside
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Imtiaz Ali Khan Apr 15, 2019 01:47am
We Pakistani welcome positive criticism, lost of respect to our Alex speak your mind and thank you for it. Love you Alex thank you for visiting our Indus Valley Civilization. Birth Place of Sikhism, Birth Place of Hinduism, Birth Place of the largest Buddhist Civilization Ghandara Civilization and Pillar of Islam. Pakistan Zindabad!
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Texan Apr 15, 2019 01:48am
I can relate to every problem she mentioned. Most of these issues did not exist in 50s through 70s. They are not hard to fix but she is correct that you have to work on these issues in Pakistan and educated travellers about the sensitivities in some areas.
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Naveed Apr 15, 2019 02:03am
Can travelers go and come out of pentagon or white house or the senates as they please? Every country has sensitive areas where the travelers are not allowed, sometimes for their own good. There is no way Mr. Khan can change the cultural norms in even five years. There are well established taboos in every society. Pakistan is not west and vice-versa One thing that will help the situation will be to issue a tourist guide with dos and don'ts as you travel as a stranger. It is a fair picture of travelling in India or Pakistan, except the Pakistani back ground people have a very hard time getting an Indian visa. It is naïve to think that culture or corruption of intense , or the white colonial mentality can be changed overnight or in one year. People should stop blaming the present regime for the ills of the past seven decades or even before that.
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Faraz Ahmed Qureshi Apr 15, 2019 02:05am
Truth remains to be the truth!
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rahul Apr 15, 2019 02:13am
@Insaaf hoga zaroor hoga so why only white get royal treatment?
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Faisal Apr 15, 2019 02:22am
Thanks for your honesty. The bloggers nowadays are showing a manufactured image of Pakistan which is far from reality.
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Saif Apr 15, 2019 02:33am
Thats so true... Pakistan has the potential to become the next dream destination for tourism... Pakistan is the heart of indian subcontinent... We have amazing destinations, heart warming culture, amazing food and a rich history.... But......This bloger is absolutely right... This is not an attempt to give Pakistan a bad name... This is positive, constructive criticiam and i personally appreciate that.
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RationalBabu Apr 15, 2019 02:35am
@Dr. Faazil Ahmed, that is why hardly anyone does!
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Liebe aus Deutschland Apr 15, 2019 02:41am
Dear Alex, Thanks for pointing out your concerns and I agree with you on most part. However, just as you said that criticism is for improvement let me give you some points. 1- stop applying standards that are not even true for NY. Gora complex is not a local issue. Its a global issue. 2- Don‘t forget to respect the local culture wherever you go, be it a Mosque, Temple or a Church. Recently people were asked not to take pictures balancing on the train tracks to Auschwitz and behave respectfully. 3- What if a Muslim starts preaching Islam at a Dinner table in Poland? Its absolutely not liked. So as a traveler one has to respect the belief of the host. 4- You can also get into trouble in many other countries if you approach women. Including many non Muslim countries. 5- Think of a child that walks first time, and instead of encouraging him, someone scolds him. Thats why your speech was cancelled. Tourism in Pakistan is like that child that needs to walk better but not on first day.
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K Khan Apr 15, 2019 03:19am
This is all rubbish. Absolutely wrong information!!!
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Ali (CA) Apr 15, 2019 03:29am
Excellent points, except number 2. Anyone looking different than croud gets attention naturally as I got attention in USA and local towns than a Caucasian counter part. So that will remain and can't be changed, other points are valid especially number 3. Thank you
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observer#1 Apr 15, 2019 03:30am
Any tourist who like her visits way more often then the others will become attention of security agencies. On top of that if you advertise Pakistan positively you may become target of those who want the opposite. So government trying to protect you would be logical. At the same time I agree with most of her assertions about Pakistan Government, like poor listening, advertising achievements before they are implemented. This habitual behavior is not only the issue for tourism but the progress of Pakistan in general.
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Sadaf Apr 15, 2019 03:34am
Thanks Alex I am a woman, local, and you are100% right about everything Thanks for giving us a voice
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observer#1 Apr 15, 2019 03:35am
Pakistanis giving special respecting tourist, white or non white, should not be her problem. In-fact she should take it as positive rather than calling it some kind of complex.
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Mahboob Apr 15, 2019 03:54am
@arfan aslam khan . Come Arfan ! I've lived in Europe all my life and am Pakistan origin, how can you say Europe is dangerous and knife crime everywhere ?! It is simply untrue. Pakistan has many problems and much potential and simply ignoring the problems and criticing those that experience these problems and report them is part of the problem and reason why Pakistan cannot change. I'm hopeful PTI is going to address this issues and they have already started to, so hang tight and be part of the solution but don't shoot the messenger !
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Well wisher Apr 15, 2019 03:55am
@Must learn . Absolutely. Even the domestic tourists feel embarrassed when groups of youngsters follow them everywhere. Besides lack of security & beggars makes the spot messy. Otherwise all ok.
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Amit Apr 15, 2019 03:56am
True picture of Pakistan
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Mahboob Apr 15, 2019 03:57am
@Insaaf hoga zaroor hoga "She is complaining because she did not get the Royal treatment that whites do" !!! Are you seriously suggesting that is is ok for Pakistani society to discriminate against colour and to complain is her problem ?!!
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Safdar Apr 15, 2019 04:01am
@arfan aslam khan Fully agree with. I see that people here have jumped to appreciate her (isnt that angrezi complex..?) and I can bet many of these people have not been international tourists, to be able to compare experience of a tourist in Pakistan versus other countries in the region...
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farhad Apr 15, 2019 04:07am
that is correct
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Safdar Apr 15, 2019 04:08am
By the way - if couples kissed even in most middle eastern countries it wont be an acceptable act...I have lived in Middle East and have seen that tourists visit there (DXB could be an exception, ok) and know that they have to dress modestly and interactions with men have to be restrained...Alex's lack of exposure and experience to other countries is obvious from this video...
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wasim rathore Apr 15, 2019 04:10am
Good! Let us hear the truth from those who have actually experienced travel in Pakistan, rather than from Government publicists.
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KJ Apr 15, 2019 04:18am
@Insaaf hoga zaroor hoga: She is complaining that women can not travel on their own. Traveling on their own is a signal to others that she is sexually available. Now how is that being unreasonable? Her fears are real. Traveling with a boyfriend can be problematic too, and she is also concerned about that. Is that unreasonable too? If tourists have to 100% abide by Pakistani cultural system, then don't expect tourists to come. Educate your people that there are people who have a different belief systems, and learn to politely ignore that.
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z Apr 15, 2019 04:37am
Good! We needs this critical feedback. I thank you! This needs to be hyped so people can see and hear. Pakistani.
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Truth Apr 15, 2019 04:40am
If we want tourism to flourish, we should present all reviews and insights to tourists. No one likes to rely on fake or paid reviews. Lets keep things honest so people can trust and rely on them.
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Syed Shah Apr 15, 2019 04:42am
Pakistan do not get greedy for money ! Pakistan is better off without hordes of tourists flocking to it. Too many international tourists will ruin your country. You will have to change its nature which keeps it unique.
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Ga Apr 15, 2019 04:43am
You voiced my thoughts accurately and some in the government do realize that Pak is not ready for mass tourism like Turkey or Thailand. We are way to sensitive about just about anything. Also, food hygiene is seriously questionable and nothing is being done about it. I appreciate Mark Wiens and others but they are leading us down the wrong path.
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Ali Apr 15, 2019 05:01am
@Saeed 1. For security reasons they do a thorough check if needed in Pakistan ask Afghani visitors. 2. Foreigners are not just traveling to Lahore it's a different story outside or even in many parts of Lahore 3. You are absolutely wrong as Pakistani British I get to keep my culture and celebrate British culture with pride. This is completely fair criticism it shows how much Alex cares for Pakistan great for her I hope the government officials are listening.
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Ali Apr 15, 2019 05:06am
@Jimmy There is a difference between security check and harassment our security agencies can definitely improve on this by planning and making tourist aware in advance rather creating unexpected hurdles. Also, Pakistan doesn't need to be compare to any other country. Pakistan should be known by its self alone.
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Ali Apr 15, 2019 05:10am
@Human criticism is healthy be a bit humble please.
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Ali Apr 15, 2019 05:15am
@Adam you have to start somewhere. Criticism is healthy it does make people more aware I say kudos to her whether you agree with her or not.
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Pakman Apr 15, 2019 05:41am
One must appreciate an honest opinion, and take appropriate steps to make tourists comfortable, safe and secure. Take a cue from other great tourist destinations like Malaysia, Sri Lanka etc. Pakistan has huge potential and lots of it.
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GM Lahbar Apr 15, 2019 05:52am
The organizers should have allowed her expressions and the counter it with strong arguments. Its a fact too that a traveller cant move as free as we Pakies travel in foerign countries. I have a good experience of travelling in 6 asian coutries . i could travel to the way I liked. Facts must not be denied that even Pakistani can't travel easily in Balochistan, FATA and some parts of KPK. The only valid point was that she was against the agenda of summit. Thanks Pakistan
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HashBrown® Apr 15, 2019 05:57am
@Insaaf hoga zaroor hoga "Shes basically complaining because she didn't get the royal treatment that white travellers do." Let's say you're right. What does that tell you about us? Your comment is the absolute definition of what she describes as "colonial hangover." Personally I would love to see Pakistan crowded with tourists from the Middle East, Africa, maybe even Latin America one day. The last time our country was filled with gora Americans was in 2011, when they were sent by private security firms, harassing and forcibly searching innocent Pakistanis on their own soil. I don't see why we're so desperate to see the same kinds of people return.
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Mohammed Pervez Apr 15, 2019 06:01am
This is one thing that we should learn from India. They have really progressed in terms of tourism under Modi govt. Being from Malaysia and Malaysian Passport I got a visa free arrival e visa, at delhi airport though long que but sorted fast. Travelled toTaj mahal then to jaipur with public transport which was very comfortable trains. And were running on time. Yes issues were there but cleanliness has changed at stations over mu years of travelling. People in India when they come to know about me and my connections with India and Pakistan they were not at all suspicious. Infact this was post Pulwama. I had been able to visit to North East, India China border which technically in one state they need noc. but was somehow easy just one day , Yes one day.. Further I went to Sikkim via air and this was the highest airport constructed in India, phew what a view. While i visited Pakistan several times and see lot of potential, time to really focus on local and so called color tourist as .
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Raju Apr 15, 2019 06:02am
Barvo Dawn for publishing critics. Wow, short and sweet solution for improving tourism in a short video. I would like if she can talk about Improving Indian tourism. Welcom to India madam.
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Javed Apr 15, 2019 06:06am
Certainly , you are correct and govt shouldn't realise the actual task at hand in terms of promoting tourism but this tourism shouldn't effect is like Thailand ,Brazil but one can follow the successful example of china and Singapore where quite strict ethics are still in place. You can roam where ever you want hand in hand but common decency must prevails. We need to do a lot of homework. PM KHAN is requested not to ruin this sector with his "Vision" without wisdom to promote tourism.
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Amir Apr 15, 2019 06:09am
Spot on.
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Awais satti Apr 15, 2019 06:15am
For Alex and all those who are appriciating her ,infact trying to impress her ,*when in Rome act like Romans*this is the simplest answer to all your concerns,I personally have visited Europe/Uk,and my own country pakistan, and trust me we pakistanis are far more broad minded and advanced in term of hospitality and tourism than all other nations and countries so please don't try to teach us while being Narrow minded, rather try to accept the truth, we pakistanis are welcoming tourists from across the world since 1947 and specially a huge number of them who comes to visit Northern Pakistan Kpk,Swat,Fata,Gilgit Baltistan ,K2 and other Peaks and everyone liked the places, Culture and hospitality they recieved .you need to understand that you won't get Every country as America there is always different culture ,issues,circumstances according to which things happens,just because you had faced any problem you shouldn't be labeling pakistan,genuine tourists don't need explanation but you did.
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Omar Apr 15, 2019 06:16am
Give her the Pakistan tourism ministry for LIFE. My vote is for her.
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abc Apr 15, 2019 06:19am
She looks like a naturalized American citizen and she is only partly right. Goras are given preference in every country including India. When white foreigners speak well about a country it has more weight, as such countries all over the world depend on white tourists to promote tourism even in countries in south america and popular tourist spots of the Caribbean like Jamaica, Puerto Rico,St,Lucia Aruba and Barbados etc.In spite of the extra ordinary problems that she is talking about while travelling in Pakistan why has she bothered to visit Pakistan 5 times, and why did she not identify these problems earlier, now that she was not allowed to speak she is identifying these problems.Of course the infra structure is not totally there yet but it is improving and everybody knows that before they land there the goras are not complaining so why is she The only thing she is right about is maybe the interference of the agencies which is being eliminated, the rest is just a figment of her imagination.
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Abad Ahmed Apr 15, 2019 06:25am
Right on! Pakistan has a long way to go to catchup to the world in tourism. I would tell the government of Pakistan and the department of tourism to pay attention to her constructive criticism and improve just what she pointed out but also quality of roads, quality of transportation and quality of accomodation, hotels, motels rest stops.
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Pathanoo Apr 15, 2019 06:32am
Is any one listening?
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Zak Apr 15, 2019 06:37am
This blogger may be critical but she is spot on as regards her criticism. !!! We need tourism - it will add billions to our forex reserves., and help our balance of payments immensely! Each tourist can bring in over $1660 each !! Right now, 92% of our tourists are desi ones .... visiting their families and they don’t spend as much .... and the hotel rooms are empty... the taxis and tour buses are not running .... and the restaurant s need more customers. We need to get out act together !
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Irfan Apr 15, 2019 06:38am
@arfan aslam khan Mr. Khan she is not talking about crime in Pakistan. She is talking about cultural differences and bureaucratic hurdles a tourist might face. Who can deny gots complex. She has explained her experiences very truthfully.
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Mahira Khan Apr 15, 2019 06:40am
I have been trying to get a small gfoup of American s to visit our beautiful country for Two weeks and I have found from well meaning advice that what Alex has mentioned above is unfortunately very true.
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SS Apr 15, 2019 06:41am
This is not Naya Pakistan. She should be allowed to speak
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Facts Apr 15, 2019 06:45am
There are other platforms where she can mention these issues and maybe appropriate action will be taken, but you surely can't say that in a Summit, those occasions are focused on positive things and it is not a bad thing. No one is naive or stupid enough to believe that everything is just perfect and there are no issues. But there is a right way of doing things and a wrong way, she chose the wrong way first.
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Humza Naseer Jatt Apr 15, 2019 06:49am
I am a Pakistani by birth, but now an American citizen for the last 15 years. I have travelled to Pakistan for the last 20 years. I can relate to the criticism as above. We have to change as a government, be honest in our rules, discourage women, of all types from traveling alone .. We need strict NOC areas delineated and strictly enforced. Only tour operated tourists should be allowed ! I have personally been hurt in s couple of incidents. Let us be honest.
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Urooj Apr 15, 2019 06:51am
Finally a correct picture of tourism in Pakistan. She should have also mentioned la long nice, clean and cheap hotels, dirty bazaars, street food that will make tourists very sick, garbage lying around in the most beautiful natural areas of the world.
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Ursula Vietze Apr 15, 2019 06:52am
This is my personal feelings. I just returned from Pak. And had the most horrific experiences. But maybe it just happened. I hope your country earns lots of dollars from tourism. Some Pakistani s are very friendly and respectful, but.
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Moeed Apr 15, 2019 07:14am
Every country has its own culture and whenever you go there you have to respect that. Her claims on cultural sensitivities are a bit senseless to be honest.
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Baqir talpur Apr 15, 2019 07:15am
I have been saying this on every damn vlog. Thank you. We need to accept our flaws in order to correct them.
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Arif Apr 15, 2019 07:18am
A very pertinent and timely reminder. PTI government should recognize that country does not have the infrastructure and facilities to promote tourism en mass for foreigners at present will take lot of efforts and time. It right now should concentrate more promoting tourism among the local population and overseas Pakistanis who may not mind lack of world class facilities. Promoting religious tourism in groups organized by travel agencies or tourism department or hotel industry may also be OK.
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Khusro Apr 15, 2019 07:41am
Every country in the world has it’s positives and negatives, talk about France the place of love, as marketed, but in reality people who visit complain of common theft issues, you can’t leave anything unattended, otherwise some thief can pick it up, just like that, also it’s not a very clean city Paris. Talk about United States and Crimes on street, Romania and its issues with brown skin. Egypt where foreigners are treated better then the locals. This is pretty normal, but no country markets the bad, because a tourist is already taking courage to step into unknown territory and higlighting bad will just make him run away very easily. We can certainly work to fix issues like NOC, But you can’t change gora complex created over several years by British Rulers intentionally. None the less our leaders should take these points and work on them to make it even a better destination.
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nafees Apr 15, 2019 07:41am
As X Pakistani she is 100% right and we need to learn how to face the reality and try to solve the problem rather than turning our back on them
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Stargazer Apr 15, 2019 07:44am
USA is an amazing tourist destination, but you just put a headscarf and arrive at a major airport, and you will know what harrassment by authorities really mean !
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Umair Maniar Apr 15, 2019 07:45am
Thanks for the fact check. Another point I noticed in many (gora) vlogs that Pakistan = hospitable = 'refused to take money', for me tourism is a commercial industry and no traveller should expect free lunches. I'm not discouraging to be hospitable but it could beyond just 'refusing to take money'
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Azaz Apr 15, 2019 08:08am
@arfan aslam khan You are an ignorant person, a person who can't take criticism is not a wise person. Every word she uttered is very true, I am a Pakistani and I love Pakistan very much but I agree with every word she has uttered. Don't be a typical Pakistani who believes in "Sub Achaa hai". We can only become better if we realize our short comings and work collectively to fix them. We have a potential to become one of the greatest nations in the world, but we have to learn to take criticism graciously, get out of the gora mentality and over come and fix our weaknesses and problems that have plagues us, together.
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Salim w Apr 15, 2019 08:13am
Not a correct representation , This will change nice CPEC is up and running
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S Apr 15, 2019 08:14am
As a Pakistani here is my experience and example of gora complex. Having lived abroad for many years decided to visit Pakistan and see Mahanjadaro in Sind. My nephew was in travel business arranged lunch for me and my wife at that site. There was also a British couple from England as well. After the tour we were ready to have chicken biryani specially made for us. As we sat down British couple came around and sat down to take rest. The lunch arrived the man said this was especially made for visiting couple but to our surprise instead of serving us the man served the British couple and you could see they felt little awkward. When we asked our nephew about our lunch he found that by mistake they had served the couple from England. The writer is correct, this complex exists.
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Muhammad Hanif Apr 15, 2019 08:15am
Well i think problems are every where, in every country. We should keep focus on the positives. as every country do. This is an advertisement of the Country. The government has all the right to correct the direction of anything as per the country's interest.
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Art kp Apr 15, 2019 08:17am
There is no such thing as visa on arrival, it was fake news!
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Muhammad Hamza Apr 15, 2019 08:17am
Thank you for being truthful and honest. I request officials to take it seriously. Otherwise it'd be really difficult to expand tourism.
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Vallabh Apr 15, 2019 08:30am
@RIZ ....Talk about Pakistan not India .India in any case is one of the top tourist destination. Drawing parallel with India will not make any good to Pakistan. Address the issues and remove roadblocks and make it tourist friendly....All the best
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Abdullah Apr 15, 2019 08:32am
She absolutely nailed it. When our officials will accept the fact that Truth & Honesty always prevail regardless of how hard it be.
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Faiza GR Bhatt Apr 15, 2019 08:40am
the best video ever! i experienced the problems she is talking about when i visited Pakistan in 2014. Once on street in Karachi, of all the places, some people approached me thinking i am available. next time i decided to go out with my nephew as a guard all the time :-D
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Deepa Apr 15, 2019 08:44am
@RIZ Have you been to India?
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Dawn Apr 15, 2019 08:52am
Alex when you are in another country leave your notions home rather adapt the place and the people you are visiting. Your experience will be more fun.
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Glen DAbreo Apr 15, 2019 08:54am
Let’s get real. There was NO tourism in Pakistan. The tourist industry is going through the learning curve. There are many travel tour operators some are responsible & trustworthy but there are some shady. There is a dire need for these travel operators to be monitored. This is to protect the other responsible travel companies. There needs to be some guidelines to the garbage generated otherwise we will ruin these beautiful sites. . Also creative critics should be accepted & certain conditions of travel & be improved.
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Kashif Apr 15, 2019 09:06am
Finally, a reality check!
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Ibrahim Apr 15, 2019 09:10am
@Saeed ....... You like to think other countries are no different.
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Mukhtar Apr 15, 2019 09:11am
Pakistan must reform itself like Dubai. There must be liberalisation yet conservatism must continue where it is feasible.
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Babar Hussain Apr 15, 2019 09:16am
Pakistan as tourist destination will need some time... as people come and go, their experiences will generate tourism. However, its a good start and hopefully it will continue. we are moving towards security stabilization and as we move closer to it, tourism will pick up but gradually. There is no magic wand that will enable tourism boom.
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Hasan Apr 15, 2019 09:27am
This is so negative you need to be supportive we are only starting to dive into tourism ofcourse there will be problems but we will overcome them. This summit was to promote the beauty of Pakistan and you are speaking as if there are no problems anywhere else
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D. Apr 15, 2019 09:29am
She's pretty much right about everything, however, one thing keeps bothering me- does this lady have a licence to ride the motorbike she's always seen with in our country?
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illawarrior Apr 15, 2019 09:31am
@arfan aslam khan She is criticising in an attempt to bring about constructive change.
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K Apr 15, 2019 09:37am
She missed a few more points , they have to cover their bodies and are not allowed to consume alcohol publically. If you are visiting a country as a tourist, u r here to experience the culture,history and the Nature. So experience the things they are rather demanding a change as per your likings. And its a universal marketing strategy, u always project the positives to promote a product and same is true while promoting tourism. So b realistic plz.
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Huzefa Apr 15, 2019 09:38am
Read what Alex is saying here is quite true actually!! Pakistan is one of the best destinations to travel in but the big BUT is there . Govt should give some appropriate facilities plus the people around needs to be more acceptable towards tourism and not just accept that a gora or gori can do anything but there own countryman n women can also be free ! Still very truly things said by this lady .
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Bilal Apr 15, 2019 09:44am
The article misses the point completely. I was in Srilanka in early 90s. There were police and army check points everywhere and so were the tourists. People knew why they were there. Also I do not understand the culture clash part. Met many europeans traveling in muslim countries. All of them know what not to do.
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Omar Apr 15, 2019 09:57am
I think Alex raises absolutely excellent points!
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Muhammad Junaid Apr 15, 2019 10:05am
what is the twitter acccount of Alex?
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Waqar Apr 15, 2019 10:13am
@arfan aslam khan seems like either you ve never travelled to these ‘dangerous knife crime ridden’ European countries or just like to exaggerate. This is the Ostrich like behaviour we should avoid. I as a Pakistani dont feel 100% safe when travelling around Pakistan, so let’s just face the criticism and address the issues.
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Khan Apr 15, 2019 10:17am
She let us know the truth
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yasir Apr 15, 2019 10:27am
@Human What's negative about her review? She is right, don't you think our police officials ask for money? She addressed the issue on how hard it is to obtain the visa for the country. Listen to her points carefully, you'll understand.
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Gopal Patel Apr 15, 2019 10:36am
I wish the Pakistani government had been as open as its people's hearts. The truth cannot be hidden under the carpet for long.
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Bashir George Apr 15, 2019 10:36am
I am so glad that finally someone have the audacity to address the real issues.
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Farhan Apr 15, 2019 10:38am
Spot on Alex !
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salman Apr 15, 2019 10:58am
Very Sane and real advise
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SIAK Apr 15, 2019 11:09am
Too outspoken to speak at a promotional conference. She was rightly taken out of the event that was focused on highlighting the opportunities in Pakistan..
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Kabeeelakhan Apr 15, 2019 11:11am
@Atif Khan And why exactly does she deserve that position. What is her eligibility criteria?
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abid rashid Apr 15, 2019 11:28am
This is true.. a person living in west find it even difficult .. than ordinary Pakistanis living there...
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AAN Apr 15, 2019 11:39am
Thankfully dawn doesn't censor this stuff. Please be ready for some serious bashing by this "traditional and cultural" nation.
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Fawwad hussaini Apr 15, 2019 11:48am
She makes sense. We may disagree with some of her thoughts. I second her, we should be realistic instead of over positive :)
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Chingez Khan Apr 15, 2019 11:48am
Shamefully, I agree with her 100%
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GHOST 49 Apr 15, 2019 11:51am
I totally agree with you on this and the PTS shouldn't have stopped you from saying all this
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Awais Apr 15, 2019 11:56am
Yes it makes us a bit comfortable if someone's being critical. But the fact is what she said is true. We really to work on the problems/solutions she mentioned. We should take criticism positively and she mentioned those problems quite politely so she has my respect.
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Ruhul Apr 15, 2019 12:08pm
@arfan aslam khan first read the whole artlicle then comment. Or watch her whole video on youtube. She pointed out valid issues not only security.
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Uzair Apr 15, 2019 12:11pm
@Jimmy Thats true. But her point seems to be that accurate and relevant information should be readily available. Instead of, what I too feel, excessovely and inaccurately portraying as though coming to Pakistan is as simple as going to the neighborhood public park, and some open and free disney land.
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majid Apr 15, 2019 12:14pm
Pakistan is the most beautiful destination around the world. Strange, none of the other travellers have reported such harassment cases.
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Tushar Apr 15, 2019 12:16pm
A very positive and true representation of the current situation for travel in Pakistan. A fantastic country with a varied culture and natural beauty but being pushed backwards by self seeking politicians and sycophants in government who are not ready to assuage the concerns of their potential customers.
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Champions of the Champion Apr 15, 2019 12:20pm
The issues she is talking about is very common in most of the developing Countries whether it be India, Bangladesh, Sri-lanka or Pakistan. These aspects regarding travelling by a female should be seen in a comparative context and not just for Pakistan.
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Tushar Apr 15, 2019 12:22pm
@arfan aslam khan it is people like you with blinkers in your eyes that you do not want to hear or see what a foreigner thinks and experiences in Pakistan. The more you listen and address criticism, the more the country will progress. Remaining encaged in the shell spun by selfish officials will only adversely affected the potential of the country
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thinking Apr 15, 2019 12:26pm
I am amazed at the passion she has for travelling and for Pakistan inspite of the hardships she faced in that country. Pakistan is lucky to have a traveler like her, who indeed wants to see tourism grow
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Anon Apr 15, 2019 12:28pm
@Saif.... dream destination?
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Fajar Khan Apr 15, 2019 12:51pm
World is not blind, we should portray what we are. All have positive and negative. We can do much better if government is serious to promote tourism. Same voice should be heard.
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Kamran Apr 15, 2019 12:57pm
Very true!
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RationalBabu Apr 15, 2019 12:57pm
@Dr. Faazil Ahmed, and you call yourself a Doctor?
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Dr Accountant Apr 15, 2019 01:02pm
I hate to say it but she is right, I watched the video yesterday and of course it made sense. By advertising somewhat inaccurate picture of touring Pakistan, we are putting ourselves more in danger of being at the top of countries not to visit . Obviously you are bound to get biased vlogs. when all these "white" influencers get paid, and the fame (albeit local) that our nation showers them with. !
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RationalBabu Apr 15, 2019 01:03pm
@Stargazer, surely you know the reason for that!
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RationalBabu Apr 15, 2019 01:06pm
@S, this was a simple misunderstanding! You got served a bit late, that’s all!
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Sameer Apr 15, 2019 01:08pm
Pakistanis will be careful...visitors should be ever more so. Come and visit and have fun...meet people...share culture...but don't be like Raymond Davis please! When tourists are genuine; we can let our guard down.
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Sid Apr 15, 2019 01:10pm
@Sid are you sure you are Pakistani?
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Ady Apr 15, 2019 01:18pm
So she was not given a chance to speak at a forum and she vented her anger out. 1. Tell me one country not having bureaucratic and security procedures. 2. It is the courtesy we offer as a part of our culture, norms and teachings. 3. You surviving after 5 visits mean that there are not so many hazards.
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Sawarkar Apr 15, 2019 01:24pm
@Azad why drag India?
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Rehan Apr 15, 2019 01:45pm
Is it not the same in every country in the world. Can you be more realistic and compare with other countries in REAL way.
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Mani Apr 15, 2019 01:48pm
She actually got more attention than any of the bloggers at the international tourism summit.
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Farooq Apr 15, 2019 01:49pm
Whenever and wherever you travel it is risky and even dangerous and that is the reality, you can't travel in baby cot with a nurse looking after you for example, Siberia K2 extreme north and south, crossing an ocean, crossing Africa deserts and looking for wildlife in a rain forest, going to a place of unknown language and so on..
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Right Voice Apr 15, 2019 01:53pm
@Newborn Mark wiens is a free loader. He eats free food.
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Awaad Ahad Khan Apr 15, 2019 02:07pm
Oh so well said. Finally someone with a clear perspective, true facts and most importantly, the will and bravery to say it out loud. I wanted to open a B&B in Islamabad, but was told by many friends including some in the government, that not only will it fail, but I will be harassed and monitored by the local authorities for years to come.
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Shahid Faruqui Apr 15, 2019 02:24pm
She is right on the money
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Ahmad Mushhood Qureshi Apr 15, 2019 02:25pm
She wants to criticise us and our country then let her, She was not a child to whom some one guided her to go and visit Pakistan, Pakistan is fighting a war since 1979, its almost fourty years of continous war, people of Pakistan have diffrent views on every thing but when it comes to Pakistan's security, every person takes it very seriously. we have issue of trust with rest of the world, specially when there is an American person is being involved.
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Ahmed Apr 15, 2019 02:31pm
Who is listening? She geniunely likes Pakistan and most of what she said is true and relevant. Lot of tourist potential but red tape blocks the way.
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M.Sethi Apr 15, 2019 03:17pm
Truth maybe bitter but by facing it and accepting it with a positive frame of mind, it can be turned sweeter and work to help remove the negatives.We should appreciate her honesty and address the bottle necks that she has pointed out and work out a solution.
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Mathai Apr 15, 2019 04:06pm
Wanting to visit Pakistan as US citizen of Indian origin to see general public and natural beauty . But now am little bit confused by seeing this article.
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Dr. Talal Safdar Apr 15, 2019 04:08pm
Couldn't agree more. A transparent depiction of the ground realities of travel to Pakistan. Pakistan is scenic, no doubt but travelling to here is a totally separate thing...
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Kkb Apr 15, 2019 04:20pm
@Adeel wake up. She is trying to help. Every single post is valid. If we don’t realize we will never overcome.
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Haris Khan Apr 15, 2019 04:22pm
agree
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Sabir Hussain Apr 15, 2019 04:47pm
More bitter and worse examples can be seen across the boarder as well. Nonetheless, much safer and professional management system are a must in tourism industry to facilitate all the local and foreign travelers. Pakistan has much potential to amaze the viewers by it's scenic landscapes and rich culture!
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Janjua Apr 15, 2019 04:48pm
But where did she mention scenic beauty of the country.
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Jim Acosta Apr 15, 2019 04:50pm
Everything she has highlighted is deep rooted in Pakistani culture. Its not acceptable to question or be honest about problems. There is a long history of pushing things under the carpet and believing what we want to, rather thank what is.
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Indian Apr 15, 2019 05:18pm
Without accepting problem, you can't find solution. Denial mode can't help.
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Moth Apr 15, 2019 05:18pm
Growth is triggered on optimism and not on pessimism.
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Khan Apr 15, 2019 05:20pm
I totally 100% agree with you. I was exactly thinking the same about the so called summit. And I am also very critical of Eva Zu Beck and alike, who are probably just selling by their looks and almost nothing else. She prob doesn’t know, but I do see men sort of flirting with her in the videos (remember the Pakistani flag pin taking too long to be put in place). So she may not know but the Pakistani men are very good at flirting, especially with someone who got no idea how it’s done. Then they hi five at your back and move on. So my open request to all these vloggers and especially women, is to please judge sensibly. I second Alex in almost everything she talks about. That summit thing is a show off.
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Ali Apr 15, 2019 05:30pm
@Adeel Name a major tourist destination that has NOCs.
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Zulfiqat Apr 15, 2019 05:35pm
Thank you for this write up. I hope all sitting ministers are made read this article and made to sign a form that says that they understand what this write up is pointing to and come up with a plan to counter all the issues outlined herewith,
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Firangi Apr 15, 2019 05:37pm
Hats off Dawn!
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Hakim Sikander Apr 15, 2019 06:03pm
I have read and listened to many of the travel blogs in your paper and this blog hits the nail on its head. Travel in Pakistan is difficult with all the paperwork that you need before you even start. It may change sometime in the future but that future is quite far. Unless you are prepared to waste days waiting for the permits to travel in the country, you might as well go elsewhere for your vacation.
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Anees Apr 15, 2019 06:16pm
I am Pakistani live in Canada thanks for sharing your experiences will help lot of people
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Imran Apr 15, 2019 06:16pm
Few Valid comments Alex!!!! But as a traveler, you must realize, different countries have different set of cultures beliefs. You as a traveler mush adhere to those local laws and cultures. If you walk around naked in your country and its permissible, does not mean it is OK to do so in the rest of the world. True Pakistan is a beautiful country and has an abundance of place to feast your eyes, and people SHOULD visit this part of the world without fear. Having said that, Pakistan history is less than a 100 years old, so you CANNOT and SHOULD NOT compare to the lifestyles and laws to other places in the world that have a rich old history. Not to mention some religious restrictions. Give Pakistan time, DO NOT give it a bad name...which you are trying subtly, to do.
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Patriot Apr 15, 2019 06:26pm
Pakistan should be listening to people who are critical and have suggestions on how to improve things. Alex certainly fits the bill. If you only going to listen to those who say everything is honky dory in the country, how are you going to improve situations for tourists?
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ahmed Apr 15, 2019 06:30pm
She didn't mention that it's not the safest country for women especially. I am from Pakistan & I know that female tourist can't really travel with out security in this country. It's a lawless society. And definitely a police state. I don't know much about northern Pakistan as I am from Karachi. But I tell you that much that I would not feel safe sending my daughter to a trip with fellow females only with out any security. It's just not safe that is how the society is. May be that is why it is a police state. It is not like dubai or Malaysia. That is the reality of tourism for local people of Pakistan. Forget about white people Pakistan is not a safe place for locals to be travelled alone with out any security. And this is coming a straight truth from a Pakistani. And this tells a lot about the people of this country. It's a negative comment but it is a reality.
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khan Apr 15, 2019 06:44pm
i have my experience that local tourists ave no respect and love and caring when they travel domestically.well said.
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Waheed Noor Apr 15, 2019 06:47pm
@arfan aslam khan No body is asking to take your head out of the sand. Please keep it there bro, everything fine.
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Shawn Apr 15, 2019 06:56pm
She is delusional these things exist every where just a bit large scale in Pakistan. Plus these factors are exciting for an outsider but not as much for a local. She missed the point.
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ghazanavi Apr 15, 2019 06:57pm
I think good constructive critical analysis to learn and improve from.
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M. Mushtaq Ahmed Apr 15, 2019 07:05pm
Very simple suggestion to any foreign travelers in Pakistan , gay and lesbians please do NOT do what you do in your back home; kissing in public will get you in lots of trouble including holding hands; females, please travel with mail companion. There are certain things we wish absolutely NOT to change, thank you.
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Rebirth Apr 15, 2019 07:11pm
The "issue" associated with security seems ironic. Let's reverse roles for a second and ask her if she knows how an average Pakistani would be treated if they simply travelled to where she's from, forget vlogging like she is, in Pakistan. They may argue that their concerns are legitimate given their supposed past experiences. It's not that different for us. The last time foreigners 'roamed freely' in our country, it became an international incident that severely damaged diplomatic relations and left two families mourning. We can't have our people put in harm's way just as her people say that they can't, either. This, I think, is where she got it completely wrong. It's not just for the traveler's security but also for our own. Regardless, in comparison, what "foreigners" face when it comes to security isn't remotely as bad as what Pakistanis face, abroad. Everything else, however, seems reasonable and worth having a look at.
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Shujaul Bari Apr 15, 2019 07:36pm
She is quite right and makes valid arguments. IMO, majority of the people in the government are incompetent and/or always in denial. They are oppose to any constructive criticism. If I was a minister of tourism in Pakistan, I would listen to each and every suggestions and problem she has raised provided the intention is to make a tourism friendly place for all.
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Saleem Apr 15, 2019 07:38pm
Totally disagree. There might be some regulations but as whole pakistan is a good tourist destination.
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naumann Apr 15, 2019 08:02pm
All pot is bad because you were not invited, hun.
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BRR Apr 15, 2019 08:06pm
Who wants to hear actual issues when all they want is propaganda?
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ahmed Apr 15, 2019 08:43pm
Nothing wrong with your script, Alex. PK should welcome comments - good and not so good. This is the way it will mature as a tourist destination. Govts. must provide security to travellers and include locals to fully contribute.
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Adnan Virani Apr 15, 2019 08:46pm
Totally agree with Alex
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Smejaz Apr 15, 2019 08:51pm
Years back a friend of mine had criticized India for some reason. I took offence then. It's only when I went abroad that I realized that what he said was true. Sometimes outsiders critical of us is good.
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gp65 Apr 15, 2019 08:55pm
@Rebirth "Regardless, in comparison, what "foreigners" face when it comes to security isn't remotely as bad as what Pakistanis face, abroad." If you go to US, you will only have to deal with immigration while entering. Within the country, no police will tag you or prevent you from going to any city. "The last time foreigners 'roamed freely' in our country, it became an international incident that severely damaged diplomatic relations and left two families mourning." Well without foreigners "roaming freely", you do cannot really have a successful tourism industry.
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gp65 Apr 15, 2019 09:01pm
@Ahmad Mushhood Qureshi "Pakistan have diffrent views on every thing but when it comes to Pakistan's security, every person takes it very seriously. we have issue of trust with rest of the world" That is fine. But then you cannot have a successful tourism industry based on international travelers.
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gp65 Apr 15, 2019 09:06pm
@Rehan "Is it not the same in every country in the world." No. It is not. It is not normal to attach a security detail to an independent traveler. IT is not normal to question a visiting tourist for 20 hours without any grounds. " Can you be more realistic and compare with other countries in REAL way." She has visited Pakistan 5 times and recommends Pakistan to people, so she obviously has goodwill for Pakistan. She wants to give you feedback to improve your tourism industry. And the feedback she gives is precisely from the perspective of an unsophisticated independent traveler.
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Ali Vazir Apr 15, 2019 09:09pm
Such an honest and straight forward review. We have always been weary about criticism, but unfortunately this 'real awami hukoomat' is turning out to be the worst in welcoming criticism. Healthy and constructive criticism should always be welcome and should work as an influencer to bring positive changes and improvements.
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Ambreen Qureshi Apr 15, 2019 09:17pm
Spot on. Yes double standards abound. But having said that...Pakistan is a beautiful and safe country to travel to. People generally are friendly, courteous and hospitable. Come on let's travel across Pakistan
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Ali Aphdal Apr 15, 2019 09:20pm
Wonderful world. Every body just needs to voice their opinion else they can't find peace. And the opinion in her statement is just the way SHE thinks of the things that are happening to tourists in this particular country. That is her reality not everybody else's. Where in the world is a country that is perfect in all sorts and manners. If you have that standard even then you are not morally supposed to defame a country's tourism just because you had a bad experience. I live in north america and I come across all kind of negative social encounters because they the way i look and my skin colour that does not mean i take social media to voice my opinion to make my self comforted after speaking out and defaming a nation because of what is happening in there to the foreigners. I am a grown up and understand that world is not always fair. I chose to live here. You have a choice to travel or not to travel. Avoid smothering your personal opinions to general mass in the today's age and time where every body is so scared that they take every word you write literal without even expeririencing them selves. People in America and Canada from diffent ethnicities are being looked and even attacked for just dressing in a different manner. So would take on the social media to warn people of how bad these countries or their people are? There are group of people in every country and nation that has that sick mentality towards other fellow humans.That being said every traveller has a moral obligation to find out the cultural practices to understand better on how to plan their trip and to respect the moral code of the locals. I m already at peace by the way and I do not expect every one to treat me 100% fair. Its not a perfect world. Wake up people. Thats the only way you make sure that you learn about people, how they treat you and how you reacted in return. Last but not the least is thats the way how you practice your patience with people who tend to think different on what you think of yourself. While still being respectful. In a nutshell. Do not defame a nation just because you had a bad experience with a few. Peace
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HUMAYUN BHATTY Apr 15, 2019 09:30pm
Nonsense. She is complexed. Has inferiority complex. Talking and comparing Desi and Gori girls. Both have their own positions. She is not so good looking to deserve looks as the youth would look at the Goris. It was correct to kick her out of the show on tourism. Humayun
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Saad Apr 15, 2019 09:51pm
You have hit all the righth spots and trust me You are absolutely spot on.
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N_Saq Apr 15, 2019 09:52pm
She is absolutely right! That is why I keep saying Pak should hire people from Western countries to help out with administration, law and order, judiciary etc. The people in the West always think outside the box, which is not the case with Pak administrators because they just follow the line. If Pak wants to move forward then Pak must hire administrators from the Western world so that they can show Pak the way.
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Ali Apr 15, 2019 10:02pm
Baji Alex is soo right... 100/100 marks.
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Gul Khan Apr 15, 2019 10:07pm
It's not hundred percent true.
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Ahmer Khan Apr 15, 2019 10:23pm
I actually agree with her..
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Waqar Khan Apr 15, 2019 10:35pm
About NOC, she is very right. Last week I travelled to Muzaffarabd in Kashmir with a foreigner, who is working in Kashmir. At Kohala check post, the security staff asked for NOC of the foreigner. On being asked about government's decision of abolishing NOC (decision taken about a month ago), their answer was simple: they had not received the orders.
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Waheed Noor Apr 15, 2019 10:41pm
I agree with her 100% especially being only woman on the street. If you go to India, which I visit on business, I see women in all walk of life but in Pakistan? You have to search.
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N. Ahmed Apr 15, 2019 10:53pm
Her advice is excellent. We need to be transparent, instead of giving cultural shock to foreigners when they reach here.
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BRR Apr 15, 2019 10:58pm
Just see any plane going to India from the west or from the east - see how many tourists are on board - that says it all.
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abc Apr 15, 2019 11:15pm
@Ali Aphdal yes, and she has been touring Pakistan frequently she says so why is she bringing these so called problems out now after she was barred from speaking.
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King Khan Apr 15, 2019 11:49pm
@Adam oh bhai, she is right. We shouldn't risk western travelers in this country right now when even our own people are not particularly safe.
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marcus Apr 15, 2019 11:55pm
The point these people are missing is that too many external agencies under the diguise of tourism have travelled to the country and have committed espionage.
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Ali Ahmed Apr 15, 2019 11:57pm
I live in North America, and strangers do NOT flirt in front of others' relative here. Why would you harass a stranger in front of her(his) relative? She seems quite stupid to me if she thinks it is acceptable in any part of the world.
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Tehseen Apr 16, 2019 12:03am
Couldn't agree more with her, something has to be done for our hypocritical system!!!
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MZH Apr 16, 2019 12:12am
Awesome, so much true, gov doesn't want to hear it.
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Aamir Apr 16, 2019 12:14am
In simple words, there is lot to learn before we promote especially to international tourists who are different in cultuer ours.
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Saeed Apr 16, 2019 12:16am
@Ali 1. Bro thats my point for security reason they have to do thorough checking some times, it happens in all countries, do not americans remove pakistanis clothes on their airports? Did not cia deploy black water in pak? 2. You have to respect culture of every region when you visit, its ehics. 3. If on beaches of west they do not allow to wear proper clothes, did she or any other complaint? If you can remove clothes then you can put on some clothes too. Bro point is that this kind of issues every traveler face in every country. Nothing is unique here
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Mrs Mustaq Ahmed Apr 16, 2019 12:19am
Very simple suggestion to any foreign travelers in Pakistan , gay and lesbians please do NOT do what you do in your back home; kissing in public will get you in lots of trouble including holding hands; females. In Pakistan we have many same-sex activities but we do it indoors please travel with mail companion, as he will not requires any postage. There are certain things we wish absolutely NOT to change, like bro romances where Pakistani men hold hands the thought of it being anything never crosses Pakistani people.
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sk Apr 16, 2019 12:39am
You have been hanging out with the wrong people clearly. They don't know there are rules and regs to follow for foreigners. I was born there and moved overseas, even when I go back I have go thru things which i didnt have to in the past.
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Ash20 Apr 16, 2019 12:55am
@RIZ - why compare e erything with India? Have travelled to India?
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HashBrown® Apr 16, 2019 12:57am
@HUMAYUN BHATTY "She is not so good looking to deserve looks as the youth would look at the Goris." Your comment has almost left me speechless. If everybody in Pakistan thought like you, I would genuinely go around telling everybody I knew never to go anywhere near the country.
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shubs Apr 16, 2019 01:02am
Why are some commentators dragging India into a discussion on Pakistani tourism? Why this paranoid one-track mind and psychotic obsession?? Your country, your tourism issues, fix them yourself!!!
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Insaaf hoga zaroor hoga Apr 16, 2019 01:12am
@Mahboob . No, I am not suggesting that it is ok. However, she is suggesting that if she was white her experience may have been more of royal treatment. Read the article.
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Isra Apr 16, 2019 01:12am
While there is lot of takeaways from her observations and learn to implement and improve, one also need to remember there are or would always be certain "do and don't " for visiting any country. May it be developed countries or developing. There are different cultural or religious practices or even believe, that needs to be explored for learning, as part of the tourist experience.
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Jimmy Apr 16, 2019 01:57am
@S If you are Pakistani, you wouldn't have minded the British couple being served first. Where is your spirit for hospitality.
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Jigar Apr 16, 2019 02:16am
Our people have not seen the business that comes with having good tourism in the country as we have not had it for a while. However, I have heard people complain of harassment and muggings and predators from all places from Poland, to Turkey, Morroco, Dubai, US, UK and Austrailia. Just goes to show that the experience could be good or bad whereever you go.
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Janu German Apr 16, 2019 02:22am
If we well take care our tourists, they will definetly promote pakistan. No need for advertisement. Actions speaks by itself. I understand she is doing a great job by highlighting the issues. These should be taken for conderation, rather than try to hide them that factually you cant.
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Umair Apr 16, 2019 03:19am
Get over the colonial hangover !! On point this woman !!!
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Zak Apr 16, 2019 03:31am
Well she is saying with purpose to be better.
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Chris Roberts Apr 16, 2019 04:11am
If there are issues that need to be dealt with, then they must be dealt with. You have to know what they are in order to take the appropriate action. Alex has gone through the trouble of actually pointing them out. This is what Pakistan needs to fix if it is to become more tourist-friendly.
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Waheed Noor Apr 16, 2019 04:22am
@abc She was to present her video at the meet but was prevented. So she uploaded it. The video or speech would have been given at the meet if she was allowed.
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Zulfiqar Apr 16, 2019 04:25am
@majid are u joking?
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Imran Barr Apr 16, 2019 04:39am
Unless Pakistani respect themselves no one will respect them. Pakistani go bonkers under the influence of white. I have seen it happen and they will show allegiance to whites and ditch their different shades of brownies. What to expect from a race that was bred to server others.
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HashBrown® Apr 16, 2019 04:51am
@abc "...why is she bringing these so called problems out now after she was barred from speaking." She wasn't barred after bringing out these problems, she was barred because she brought them up beforehand. Have a listen to her video. Not only is she completely justified in being frustrated, she seems to show more love for Pakistan than many Pakistanis that I know.
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American by Heart Apr 16, 2019 04:52am
Very true comments. Tourist needs to feel safe what ever their culture is needs to be accepted. Kissing or holding hands what is wrong with it?
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Asim (Canada) Apr 16, 2019 05:58am
I agree with her to a good extent - truth should be told and not only a positive picture - if law and order is restored in the country (which is much much better as compared to 8 years ago) and then a campaign of tolerance and cleanliness be initiated - Tolerance to accept difference of opinion, religion, race, color, and whatever - and cleanliness be magnified to the level that it deserves (SAFAI NISF IMAN HAY - Cleanliness is Half of your faith - i.e. being Muslim) - which actually does not show even though Mosques are full of people -
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Faisal Apr 16, 2019 05:59am
Agreed. Tourists need to understand our culture before they book their flight. Traveling as a couple suggested.
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Farouq Omaro Apr 16, 2019 06:00am
True
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N abidai Apr 16, 2019 06:07am
@Must learn No she is not ,try traveling alone in NYC, Paris ,and London !
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JackJones Apr 16, 2019 07:02am
While I appreciate her feedback I don’t think her speech was ideal for the tourism forum and thus appropriately not included. Alex did the right thing by sharing it in Facebook. One thing to note Alex is that you have to know someone in Pakistan to travel in Pakistan. That is also true for someone born in Pakistan and now lives in a different country. Things get done faster if you know someone in Pakistan and that is similar to networking in other countries.
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Murtaza Apr 16, 2019 07:09am
@Shan Mumtaz Our irony is that we have a nation surviving on a million lies. Everywhere I see a mindset of always good Pakistan is being fed into local citizens and foreigners. The Truth can be suppressed but it cannot be killed. I just wonder how cheated will the Pakistanis feel when the real truth about the country and the environment is fed to them. I spend a lot of time internationally so my prespective will surprise many inside Pakistan but it is a fact and I have seen it around.
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Abid Apr 16, 2019 08:25am
I am a pakistani but i think she is dead honest and right about travelling in Pakistan. We need to look at this criticism constructively and ease out the restrictions. In my opinion Pakistan may be considered as a veiled beauty only few can dare to discover. A little bit of risk but definitely worth it.
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RASHID A RIZVI Apr 16, 2019 08:35am
I agree with her comments , Tourism is not base on skin color /believe/origin/faith. Again education is the key .Need to develop locations ,attractions / hotels , safety for all .This is a responsibility of Government and off course Citizens too.We don't need to force any one to say good word if we don't satisfy them /take care of them , keep in hostile situation . then it is not true all fake.
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Ashraf Apr 16, 2019 10:17am
Just a thought. If Pakistani government only sought reviews from people who had only positive things to say about Pakistan, then by similar logic, we can say that this girl was paid by external forces to talk against Pakistan's booming tourism industry. Again, as i said, it's just a thought. And it's her word against our government's word. Who would you want to believe? We don't know what actually happened.
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Subhan Chaudary Apr 16, 2019 10:22am
Yeah i think she is right and we have to think about it because if we want to change our country and make it better so we have to listen the critical voices instead of good voices. We have to work at a mission and have to stand against the bad government officials. Thank you Alex to make us realize about our country.
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Subhan Chaudary Apr 16, 2019 10:26am
@HUMAYUN BHATTY she was right but you have to think about yourself what you are if you want to improve to have to hear critical voices
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sheraz Apr 16, 2019 12:03pm
her voice should reached far beyond the people who want to travel pakistan. so they can make their mind before visiting pakistaan. we do have a lot problems and they need to be addressed to find solutions.
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Susann John Apr 16, 2019 12:09pm
Yes..very true
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sohail Apr 16, 2019 02:10pm
Typical response of a blogger after being denied to speak. Honestly a lot comments are not correct. Is our neighbor india an easy country to travel in for single white females i dont think so. In pakistan women get greater respect than men sometimes. Yes there are bad infleunces everywhere but that does not make the whole country unsafe. Being a man i have felt unsafe in a popular city like paris and even in parts of italy. People need to understand our culture before they make such comments. Pakistan has been portrayed as a terrorist state but we r not like rhis
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Fazal Apr 16, 2019 02:13pm
@Adeel please tell me one issue she pointed that you feel is not a 'real' issue.
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Noorellejs Apr 16, 2019 03:31pm
Being a vlogger myself I strongly agree with her that the present government is trying to sketch a picture of Pakistan that is far from reality. Travel in Pakistan is not a free territory you have to be very cautious and careful... also there are places, shops, and buildings where you can't click pictures, smile or talk to just anyone. Yes, people are hospitable but the image that some foreign vloggers are trying to show is all vacuumed and that is far from reality. Also, I read an article by Images where two namely vloggers said that they don't need such summits... that brushed off the wrong way but I am so happy that images magazine is telling the story of both sides. And there was another article by Images where some more namely bloggers and vloggers shared how they were not even approached for this venture... which shows how local vloggers and bloggers are ignored. To sum it all, a healthy balance is the most transparent outlook on Pakistan tourism I feel. Alex is not wrong.
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Awalmir Apr 16, 2019 03:52pm
Pakistan has a long way to go before it becomes an attractive tourist destination. The first step towards that goal is to face up to the truth.
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Ali Apr 16, 2019 05:18pm
Agree and we got much more problems. If anyone travelled to Murree can tell some horror stories of hotel agnets, very bad washrooms in public places etc. a single lady CANNOT imagine to travel in public transport. I am glad she penned the solutions as well. We need to fix these issues while we are inviting others. One bad mishap will put more shame
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Farrukh Apr 16, 2019 06:31pm
@arfan aslam khan This is exactly what is stopping Pakistan from progressing. This lady has written her thoughts, which I generally agree with. Rather than accept constructive criticism and look to address issues, the goto position for many in Pakistan is to turn it into a fight. If the rest of the world is so bad then why are there still so many Pakistanis wanting to leave? Pakistan is a great country but there are areas we can improve. So let's do that.
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Eric Apr 16, 2019 07:06pm
This reporter or who ever she is doesn't know what she is talking about. This is all a setup. And just trying fulfil their own agenda. I have been to Pakistan many times. And the people there are great and very friendly.
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A shah Apr 16, 2019 07:08pm
An amazing eye opener. Thank you Dawn !
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Amin Apr 16, 2019 07:55pm
It is all true....i appreciate the suggestions.... The police security should be removed with foreign tourist.
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Feroz Khan Apr 16, 2019 08:50pm
Everything you said was right on.
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Sajid Apr 16, 2019 11:21pm
Her points may be right but her lie about not allowing to express herself at Pakistan Tourism Summit raises questions on her credibility...
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Fahad Apr 17, 2019 08:27am
I agree! Every country has it's on way and it is important to understand the culture and norms of the country before you exploring it. About safety, it's safer no where if you are interested the radar. Take the example of US, in how many states you can travel alone when it gets dark?
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Fad Apr 17, 2019 08:29am
@A shah I am surprised you didn't knew that.
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obaid Apr 17, 2019 12:55pm
I had been following her vlogs for a long time now. Either she was lying earlier or is lying now. Seems like a personal vendetta.
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Ahmed Apr 17, 2019 02:21pm
this was very good am glad she didn't bring cleanliness
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khalid Apr 17, 2019 04:07pm
Not only it is not a safe place to travel for foreigners (particularly foreign girls), it is equally unsafe for the locals. You are spot on.
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amjad Apr 17, 2019 04:20pm
It varies from region to region; In Gilgit Baltistan, Islamabnad/Pindi and Swat females are safe. The society and the police force also provide protection. The issue is in Sindh and Punjab, particularly in central Punjab. We need police reforms in Sindh and Punjab and also society's attitude towards women.
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Laila Apr 17, 2019 07:35pm
She is spot on. She speaks the truth. Disgraceful the organizers censored her because they dont like the truth. Share her video!
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Atif Ahmed Apr 18, 2019 09:52am
This is very commendable for pakistan and we proud pakistan is Excellent tourist country. And we hope lots of forners will be come in pakistan in future.
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Sadia Apr 18, 2019 10:00am
I appreciate the efforts of Alex who presented a very neutral image of Pakistan. Her criticism is positive followed by the solution list! Awesome
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Azhar Apr 18, 2019 11:13am
While some of her comments and concerns are quite valid, most are rather unrealistic and even biased. As far as preferential treatment to "goras" (white foreigners) is concerned, she seems to overlook the fact that treatment based on color of the skin is a global phenomenon especially in the developed countries which she so proudly represents and not just in Pakistan. She needs to understand that special treatment extended to "goras" is not due to any inferiority complex but due to our cultural values which teach us to treat our guests in the best possible manner and "goras" are our guests from abroad. She failed to give any specific examples of harassment by security agencies and only seemed to play a blame game. Secondly, she is in no position to lecture us about the promotion of the local tourists. They are much more aware of the things and situations to face and what to expect. The world media has destroyed Pakistan's image thru negative propaganda, so we need to undo it thru positive promotion. Therefore, in my opinion, she was rightly stopped from speaking at the event.
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Trust_Shall_Be_Told Apr 19, 2019 12:27am
Media do over exaggerate, I am not denying that but before going to Pakistan or any foreign country you have to do your research yourself and get connected with people to get their thoughts on. It seems like you were under the Assumption ( you know what they say about that right) it would be safe. Heck, i am a man and i don't feel like going out in public in Pakistan. people are uneducated and do know how to act when they see a girl, or you get these stairs like people are undressing you with their eyes. It's shameful. By the way, you say the press is misleading. Point out a country whoes press is honest and give accurate information. no one does, so spare us the sob story that it is only Pakistan where press is being dishonest.
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MA Apr 22, 2019 11:44am
I agree with her totally, as I travel around the world without any restrictions, and that is want I want in Pakistan. HOWEVER to be frank the incidents that has happened in the past in Pakistan, I think security agencies has right to check and balance.
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khan Apr 22, 2019 01:05pm
ok,so what
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Rp Apr 22, 2019 09:51pm
@arfan aslam khan - she certainly seems to have hit the wrong nerve with you - but think it of this way - anyone who cannot take criticism, cannot improve. If things are already so hunky dory with travel in Pakistan, then why the government is trying to find ways to improve tourism? By the way, tourism generates over $240 billion in the 'Enemy-Country', which is 9.2% of its GDP. In contrast, this value is 9.4 billion in Pakistan - 2.7% of its GDP.
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