Are you considering visiting Pakistan? Or are you already a Pakistani and want to explore it? Perfect idea! 

If you are anything like me, the beautiful and the colourful south of Pakistan will keep you hooked. But above everything, my favourite part is its people! 

If hospitality and warmth were mixed to make a blend, it would have been Pakistanis. No, I am not exaggerating. Start your journey, and you'll get free treats everywhere. Everyone would be eager to tell you their cultural tales and legends. 

But, of course, we can't start any journey expecting only the bright side. Some cheat codes are going to help you in Pakistan! Which are, basically, some manners we need to adopt. No, it would be best if you weren’t disciplined as in school. It's for entertainment and leisure, after all. 

Let's talk about what you should keep in mind before you dive to explore Pakistan and its culture fully.

1.      Get ready for spicy food
Food! The most delightful aspect of any culture. And if you don’t know, let me remind you that subcontinent (The united Pakistan and India) was the hub of spices centuries back. They produced and exported spices all over the world.

So, it may not surprise you if I say they still feed on that spicy food! Pakistani foods are the tastiest, without any argument. Every grain will land you in the fantasies of culture and traditions. The famous foods are comprised of rice, beef, tortillas, mutton, and so much more. 

The food is enough to convince any foodie to go to Pakistan the next holiday!

Are you allergic to spices? No worries! That's why I am telling you this. Just because most of the food there is spicy, it doesn’t mean all the food is spicy. You can get balanced and mouth-watering dishes without your gut burning. 

And who could compete Pakistanis with their sweet tooth? They possess the most alluring recipes for desserts. From Halwa to gulab-jamun, everything is addicting and tasty. Have a bite and watch all your brain cells lighting up with delight!

 Are you diet conscious? 

Let's get straight to facts. The yummy food is meant to be fattening. No argument here! You may forget your diet plan and enter into the world of flavours and fatty foods -called Pakistan. 

This food is not something you may want to die without tasting; you’ll regret it!

2.      The public toilets
Now that we are talking about travelling, we can't miss this point. I am not in any intention of putting you in fantasies, of course.

What if you get to pee with no hotel near? That’s very natural, of course. Then, remember you are on a trip, and all you care for is fun. Because the washrooms may not be the best.

The hotel washrooms are luxury without any doubt. But between the meadows and near the forlorn lakes, you'll find just a cabin devotedly serving its job. My honest opinion to you is not to care about luxury and enjoy yourself.

That's the beauty of Pakistan that it exposes you to some life experiences. A jackpot for adventure lovers!

3.      Experience modern and traditional together
Yes! Pakistan has a different vibe in each city and each province. 

·         Go to Lahore, and you'll experience colours and liveliness; culture and history. 

·         Land in Karachi and you'll feel hustle, luxury and romance going hand in hand.

·         Enter Peshawar and let culture and hospitality embrace your soul. The historical markets and food are sure to add meaning to your travel!

·         Head for Balochistan and experience simplicity. Learn the art of staying beautiful yet alone by the deserts there. 

·         The north of Pakistan is regular heaven! The dramatic sights and sky-high mountains would leave your jaw dropped. 

Decide for yourself, if you have less time and want to enjoy it all. Every area has its own alluring beauty. And we can't resist it! 

4.      Don't miss to celebrate its culture
When I say Pakistan is prosperous with culture, I mean it. If you are travelling here, give yourself more than the scenic lakes and historical architecture. Experience the life and tradition that lies in the villages of Gilgit, markets of Peshawar, beaches of Karachi and weddings of Lahore.

The tradition is so diverse that we can spend a whole life exploring it. Join any wedding ceremony in a village, and you'll experience unearthly traditions. Buy yourself some bangles from local markets and some wool shawl, of course. Go to local hotels, and they'll show you how the yummiest recipes are cooked. 

Don’t forget to take the unique modes of public transport! Rickshaw and the buses. A toast for all the adventure seekers!

5.      Don't mind the beggars 
Now if you see beggars everywhere on the streets, that’s okay. Once they spot you as a traveller, they'll come for their treats. And you can say a no and ignore. Who wants an empty wallet at the end of the day donated all to beggars? That too on a trip? No! So keep your generosity aside, there's a lot of them.

You'll get to see so many different people on the streets, transgenders and even kids, asking for money. That may not surprise you because you are going to see this everywhere. The cities and the meadows! 

And if you are very emotional and can't help a ‘no’, then keep some coins in your purse. You can give cash to each and be satisfied. But trust me, the deposits are going to be never-ending!  

Travelling in Pakistan is anything but boring. Please stop believing what the media shows you! Let me introduce you to the country of love and harmony. It's the home of simple people who live with their subtle manners. It's so rich in culture and traditions; you’ll be astonished. 

So pack your bags, sweaters and jackets (we don't trust the weather here), and camera! You will make a lot of memories!