Karachi is a large city in Pakistan, with many things to see and do. It is also known as the financial center of Pakistan. However, it can be overwhelming for a visitor. For example, applying for a visa, finding the best Hotels in Karachi, and noting places to visit can be confusing.
If you are visiting Karachi and seeking information to help make your trip easier, here is the information that will cover everything you need to know before you go.
Visa
The visa process is straightforward for most countries. You can get your visa online at the Pakistan Embassy website. The application form is pretty straightforward and doesn’t require much information. Fill it out, pay for it, and print your document. You should receive your visa in your email in about two weeks.
Choosing a Hotel
A reasonable, affordable, and comfortable accommodation must reign high on any tourist’s list. Hotels in Karachi range from five-star luxury hotels to basic hostels with shared bathrooms. Simply put, there is plenty to choose from. Finding a place that works for single travelers and large families on holiday is easy. For instance, the Pearl Continental is the biggest hotel in the city’s heart and has a high rating. You can find more hotels on various booking websites. However, trust a reputable site for your booking deals and one that has good customer ratings and reviews.
Getting Around
Karachi is an urban place. One can enjoy delicious dishes here. For instance, Haleem, Biryani, Nihari, etc. are the most popular dishes. So it makes sense to stay within walking distance of your hotel. The public bus option is cheap. If you can, try to use public transport. Conversely, bikes are plentiful in the city because most streets are flat, and there’s always enough space to ride on pedestrian paths.
Pakistani taxi drivers are known for being very friendly. You can easily spot a driver willing to chat and suggest different places to visit. The metro is only helpful if you want to see or return from a specific area.
Every visitor needs a GPS device. Although these can be difficult to use at first because you need to ensure your satellite signal is high enough for your device to pick up before you start navigating. GPS will protect you from getting lost in a new place.
Currency
Generally, you can determine how many rupees you will be spending by looking up its equivalent value in US dollars on Google. You can bring cash and keep it somewhere safe or in your hotel room. Sometimes ATMs don’t work in all places, especially after the power has gone out, so you won’t be able to withdraw money when needed.
If you only have US dollars, there are plenty of areas where you can spend them. Just ask the price in local currency (rupee) first to ensure you get a good deal. You will find out that shops are very accommodating in Karachi and often willing to offer discounts if they think their prices will be too high when they convert the amount into rupees. If items are too expensive or marked up for tourists, it is okay to say no.
Conclusion
While the city of Karachi may be overwhelming for first-time tourists, it is essential to remember that it is a diverse and cosmopolitan city with a history. If you follow these tips, you will better understand the local culture and people and be able to make the most of your time there.
