- Politically challenging, with major control from army. Most people we spoke to were generally supportive of Imran Khan who is currently in their eyes (and they appear to be right) unfairly in prison
- Obviously significant levels of poverty with many living on hand to mouth existence. Signs of economic growth but many stalled housing projects. The country has suffered in a lot of ways in the post 9-11 environment. Much less begging than I have experienced in similar economies.
- Security reassuring in some places, over the top in others (Multan). As experienced elsewhere lots of scanners that beep as you go through and you are not stopped
- Some elements of corruption - in particular in Lahore
- One other British legacy is a general like for bureaucracy and being obstinate in sticking to it
- In some areas that are only just re opening up tourism, real fascination and desire to inter-act. For some reason everyone wants a selfie- men with men, women with woman, often the parents pushing their kids to have selfie with westerners. Never pushy, always respectful
- Hunza Valley should be on everyone's bucket list. Amazing beauty, friendly people and good food. How it grows it's tourism without spoiling the area will be a great opportunity/challenge
- Driving is as you expect chaotic. Roads, even some in many cities are in poor condition
- As a regular solo traveller, it was interesting to go in a group with expected benefits/downsides. Everything arranged - problems sorted - but less flexible. Generally everyone got on - we all had a shared passion in cricket - true there were some that you would not generally mix with at home but new friends made. If I went to Pakistan again I would be happy to travel solo.
- Interesting to see the mix of tour managers from UK and the local tour guides. We were lucky in having a good manager and an really excellent local guide. Other groups seemed to have people less suited to the role.
- Whilst as a tee-totaller it did not effect me, I found it slightly rude that many travellers were so desperate to get a beer in a dry country. It's tolerated provided not seen in open, but organising a room as a bar seemed a bit disrespectful
Overall a really great place to go