Travel in Pakistan

Time:Local time is GMT +5.
Electricity:Electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz.
Language:Urdu is the official language, but English is widely spoken and understood.
Health:A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for entry to Pakistan by travellers coming from an infected area. Outside the major cities there are few hospitals of a high standard. Medical insurance is strongly advised.
Safety:There is a serious threat of terrorism in Pakistan, particularly in major cities where suicide bombings, kidnappings and murders have taken place, often injuring or killing innocent bystanders. Foreigners of Western origin are particularly likely to be targets for terrorists, including kidnapping. Crime is also high, as is the risk of sectarian attacks and tribal killings.
Customs:Pakistan is a strict Muslim state and therefore alcohol and pork products are forbidden by law. Homosexuality is illegal. Women in particular are expected to dress and behave decorously in public; even in the large cities shoulders and legs should be covered, and men should not wear shorts. Foreign visitors may be stared at – this is not considered rude in Pakistan, and is purely because you are new and different. Religious customs should be respected, particularly during the month of Ramadan when eating, drinking and smoking during daylight hours should be discreet as it is forbidden by the Muslim culture.
Business:Business hours are usually 9am to 5pm Monday to Thursday and Saturdays. Some businesses are open until 12.30pm on Fridays.
Communications:The International Direct Dialling code for Pakistan is +92. The outgoing international code is 00, followed by the relevant country code (e.g.0027 for South Africa). City/area codes are in use, e.g. (0)51 for Islamabad. There are several GSM 900 and 1800 mobile networks in operation, providing fair coverage, concentrated in urban areas. Internet cafes also exist in the main towns and cities.
Duty Free:Passengers arriving in Pakistan over 18 years do not have to pay duty on 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 500g tobacco; 250ml eau de toilette and perfume, provided that not more than 125ml of that is perfume; gifts and/souvenirs up to the value of Pr2,000. The import of alcohol is strictly prohibited for both residents and non-residents regardless of nationality. Other prohibited items include matches, fruits, plants and plant material.
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