Mare Elston
@MEtravel
American expat in Afghanistan
Forum posts
58
Contacts
11
About me
American
Lives in Kabul
Speaks English French some arabic
Registration: 25 June 2010
Your thoughts about Living in Afghanistan - Kabul by ljde0618
Hi, I'm a new here in Afghanistan forum. I'm now living in Dubai with my family, planning to work in Afghanistan, Sharhr e Naw specifically. I'm a chef and I have a great opportunity waiting for me to work in this region in Kabul. ...
PS - tell me what accommodation your employer suggests and Ill tell you what I know Also my husband there works for a security company so I can ask his opinion too and let you know M Read More
Your thoughts about Living in Afghanistan - Kabul by ljde0618
Hi, I'm a new here in Afghanistan forum. I'm now living in Dubai with my family, planning to work in Afghanistan, Sharhr e Naw specifically. I'm a chef and I have a great opportunity waiting for me to work in this region in Kabul. ...
No problem I am happy to help - A Brazilian restaurant - that sounds interesting! Is BM company a local aghan one? Yes there are 'secure compounds" - they are near the airport and they are hugely expensive to live in, and in my opinion b ... Read More
Your thoughts about Living in Afghanistan - Kabul by ljde0618
Hi, I'm a new here in Afghanistan forum. I'm now living in Dubai with my family, planning to work in Afghanistan, Sharhr e Naw specifically. I'm a chef and I have a great opportunity waiting for me to work in this region in Kabul. ...
Hi I am also now in Dubai, ,I have done contract work in international development since 2010 in Afgh. In 2010-12 Kabul was fun and one could move around, go out to restaurants, sightsee ...Now its very different, Security situation is very bad ... Read More
Common misconceptions and clichés about life in Afghanistan by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Old clichés die hard, as the saying goes... and living in Afghanistan can generate lots of misconceptions in the eyes of the people. What are the most common misconceptions about the expat lifestyle in Afghanistan? What ...
Hello, I have been living and working in Afghanistan since 2010. I work as a communications advisor for donor funded socio-economic development projects. All expat jobs have a heavy security component, You typically live in a guest house or are ... Read More
Places to visit in Afghanistan by Julie
Hi, For the ones living in Afghanistan, what would you suggest to discover the country? When you have friends or family visiting you, where do you go with them? What are the must-see places in Afghanistan, the tourist sites? How to visit ...
HI, thanks so much for your information. I went to the ski event during its very first year ...We stayed in a very primitive hotel hear the airport, and there wasn't any international support or guests back then, ( I worked in Kabul at the time ... Read More
Places to visit in Afghanistan by Julie
Hi, For the ones living in Afghanistan, what would you suggest to discover the country? When you have friends or family visiting you, where do you go with them? What are the must-see places in Afghanistan, the tourist sites? How to visit ...
Hi Saboor, thanks for this update - So it this current info about the East Horizon flight info? Have you taken this flight? Have you been to bamiyan recently? If so , please let me know, as I would like to visit there for this years ski event which ... Read More
Should I move to Kabul? Appreciate your hands-on experience. by eapro
Hi all, After reading through all relevant posts here, I understand this is probably one of the most asked questions among expats living in Afghanistan. I just want to make sure that I know what I am getting into before moving to Kabul. I am a ...
Hello, Yes you definitely should go there and it will be a wonderful career boost. It is true, as expats we used to have a great time over there - parties, social life, restaurants and even bars, and I even used to go for weekends away. This is no ... Read More
Security forecast in Afghanistan + security of women expat workers by JVMD
Hi all Am new to this group and have been traveling around the world working with NGOs and thinking of looking for a job in Afghanistan. Would like to know if the security situation in Afghanistan is steadily getting better or worse .. Am getting ...
Hi. regarding security , like I said it will most likely be very strict in this time. Ask how much movement are you allowed? For example What is your accommodation? Is it a dedicated guest house in which you live with your colleagues, or is it a ... Read More
Security forecast in Afghanistan + security of women expat workers by JVMD
Hi all Am new to this group and have been traveling around the world working with NGOs and thinking of looking for a job in Afghanistan. Would like to know if the security situation in Afghanistan is steadily getting better or worse .. Am getting ...
Hello I have worked in Kabul on and off for 5 the last five years, for NGOs and contracted development projects. I have never had any problem there however the good old days of Kabul are over for now. We used to have a lot of social life, places to ... Read More
ideally looking for service oriented NGO opportunity by rf78801
Greetings to all. New to forum & blog. Recently retired USAF senior officer, seeking a return to Afghanistan after having served tours there in 2006 & 2007 ... ideally looking for service oriented NGO opportunity. Doesn't need to ...
Hello there are many NGOs operating here, although not as many in 2007 ...NGOs typically recruit from abroad so your best bet is to register onto several key websites such as developmentaid.org, and devnetjobs.org. Most of the positions get posted ... Read More
current social situation in Kabul by MEtravel
I have been offered a job working in the private sector in Kabul. I will be living and working in the city itself. I am trying to get an understanding of what the social / freedom of life in like currently in the city. I am a single female,and I ...
sure, you can get me on mare.elston@gmail.com Ill be in Kabul by next week, so let me know any other questions and we can meet up when u get to town .You didn't say from where are you? Im in S Africa ......talk soon, Mare Read More
current social situation in Kabul by MEtravel
I have been offered a job working in the private sector in Kabul. I will be living and working in the city itself. I am trying to get an understanding of what the social / freedom of life in like currently in the city. I am a single female,and I ...
HI Oh no, don't panic ..You are working for a major company and they will have an excellent security company for you who will oversee everything for you and your work commute and anywhere you need to go. You might even have use of an armoured ... Read More
current social situation in Kabul by MEtravel
I have been offered a job working in the private sector in Kabul. I will be living and working in the city itself. I am trying to get an understanding of what the social / freedom of life in like currently in the city. I am a single female,and I ...
Hi.. I used to live in Kabul from 2011-13, and now I am also returning next week for a new job, The security situation there has gone really down hill. You will have a security provider and probably you will only be able to go to work and office. ... Read More
guest house / hotel recommendation in Erbil
Dear All I am going to Erbil in late November for the purpose of job seeking. Can anyone recommend a decent-priced hotel or guest house which is centrally located and safe ? Are taxis easy to find? Are there any main expat-favoured cafes or other ... Read More
current social situation in Kabul by MEtravel
I have been offered a job working in the private sector in Kabul. I will be living and working in the city itself. I am trying to get an understanding of what the social / freedom of life in like currently in the city. I am a single female,and I ...
Hi Tiana I hope you enjoy Kabul. Sadly Im not there anymore, although if I were to find a new job there, Id be back . ...I enjoyed my time there. First of all, you should go to the Kabul Hash,, its every Friday afternoon, great bunch of people and ... Read More
Top hiring sectors in Afghanistan by Julien
Hi, lets talk about job opportunities in Afghanistan. What are the top hiring sectors? And according to you, what are the most promising job sectors, which will keep creating jobs in Afghanistan? Thanks in advance for sharing your ...
One must look for sustainable businesses ...not for the 'quick cash" Services industry, food proccessing and packaging development, larger scale agricultural activity, mining support industry, financial services, and engineering/construction. For ... Read More
current social situation in Kabul by MEtravel
I have been offered a job working in the private sector in Kabul. I will be living and working in the city itself. I am trying to get an understanding of what the social / freedom of life in like currently in the city. I am a single female,and I ...
Hi again, Well I think it totally depends upon your spouse, and if whe is interested to live in such a country. Probably she could also find work once she got to know her way around, it would be boring there with nothing to do, if you were at work ... Read More
current social situation in Kabul by MEtravel
I have been offered a job working in the private sector in Kabul. I will be living and working in the city itself. I am trying to get an understanding of what the social / freedom of life in like currently in the city. I am a single female,and I ...
Hello Pacific Your job offer sounds like a very good one and your services are much needed in Afghanistan. Sorry I dont know this hospital. Peole tend to over react to the security situation there. You have much more chance having a bad car wreck ... Read More
Please hlep me by S ANANDAN
Hello My name is S ANANDAN i am from Delih, India, i need some help from you regarding taking a job decision, i have being offered Job in Kabul In Etisalat Me & My family are worried about the security situation in Afghanistan. Could you let me ...
Hello I was in Afghanistan ( Kabul) for the previous 4 years and I had a great time working and living there. However, it is true that Indians and Indian assets are a high threat in Kabul and elsewhere; the Indian consulate has been attacked badly ... Read More
Places to visit in Afghanistan by Julie
Hi, For the ones living in Afghanistan, what would you suggest to discover the country? When you have friends or family visiting you, where do you go with them? What are the must-see places in Afghanistan, the tourist sites? How to visit ...
Hi Julie I lived in Afghan for almost 4 years, I just left there a few months ago, There are many nice places to visit - The northern cities of Herat and Mazar E Sharif are a must - both ciites have wonderful ancient Islamic sites in and around the ... Read More
Moving to Sierra Leone
Much thanks for your reply Do you live in Freetown now? Read More
current social situation in Kabul by MEtravel
I have been offered a job working in the private sector in Kabul. I will be living and working in the city itself. I am trying to get an understanding of what the social / freedom of life in like currently in the city. I am a single female,and I ...
Hi again, ok, good its in Kabul - the best areas to live are in are Wazir Akbar Khan or Taimani - very nice villas sometimes with big gardens in these areas ...Also,, ask of your weekend is Fri and Sat, or only Friday ...If you drink alcohol, its no ... Read More
current social situation in Kabul by MEtravel
I have been offered a job working in the private sector in Kabul. I will be living and working in the city itself. I am trying to get an understanding of what the social / freedom of life in like currently in the city. I am a single female,and I ...
Dear Raj You dont give too much information as to what you want to know about Afghanistan, but your job sounds like a good one. Be sure to ask what your accomodation, security, and transport situation will be. Will you be in Kabul? Ive enjoyed my ... Read More
Moving to Sierra Leone
Dear All I would be interested to hear from any expats who live or travel regularly to Sierra Leone. My husband just accepted a new job there, and we are moving there in May. We will be based in Makeni, about 150 kms from Freetown. I am vegetarian, ... Read More
hello by steve12
need some information how to get afganistan visa
Dear Satish Ive been in and out of Kabul for the last 3 years, on different jobs, and its no problem at all ...its not like its Khandahar! Its a social town, with many house parties and several nice restaurants and pubs that international ... Read More
Job search in Afghanistan
this site isnt really a job search portal; You would do better to sigh up for - www.conflictzonejobs.com Register here and list what kind fo work you are looking for. A friend of mine in Kabul set up this site about a year ago, good luck. Mare Read More
Hello
Hi You can please send me any private messages on this site, to the private message box .. I'll be in Kabul next week, so let me know if you need anything from there regarding travel. tourism, ect. Im thinking of doing a horse trek in Wakan corrider ... Read More
Hello
I might be interested, if I am still not working. I have been based in Afghanistan for last 3 years, but currently Im out of work. Pls touch base with me before you start your travels.Cheers M Read More
Expat life in Lagos -some questions by MEtravel
Hello All I am considering a job offer to work as a consultant with a major bank, and the job is based in Lagos. I have not been to Nigeria or even West Africa before. I appreciate any advice / recommendations for the following questions - First ...
hi Amit thanks for the info. I wish you best of luck for your new job in Lagos. I am awaiting paperwork for a visa to go there for a final meeting and potentially sign a work contract. If it all works out, and I do make the move to Lagos, ill ... Read More
Expat life in Lagos -some questions
Hello All I am considering a job offer to work as a consultant with a major bank, and the job is based in Lagos. I have not been to Nigeria or even West Africa before. I appreciate any advice / recommendations for the following questions - First ... Read More
best brunch in Bkk? by MEtravel
Dear All Im new in BKK, and here for an undetermined amount of time. I would like recommendations for the best fun-filled (bubbly) Sunday brunch in town - NOT family (kids) oriented - a la Dubai-style, if you get me ....Id also be interested in ...
Thanks, Annl, the Sofitel brunch does sound great ...Unfortunately I have left thailand for now, but Im filing this info away for the next time I am there! Cheers Read More
best brunch in Bkk?
Dear All Im new in BKK, and here for an undetermined amount of time. I would like recommendations for the best fun-filled (bubbly) Sunday brunch in town - NOT family (kids) oriented - a la Dubai-style, if you get me ....Id also be interested in ... Read More
current social situation in Kabul by MEtravel
I have been offered a job working in the private sector in Kabul. I will be living and working in the city itself. I am trying to get an understanding of what the social / freedom of life in like currently in the city. I am a single female,and I ...
Dear Vik I am from Dubai and have been here in Kabul for the last 2 years - What can I say, its totally different, the opposite to Dubai, in fact. Life is mostly only work, so you need to know what your leave policy will be - its advisable to be ... Read More
Newbie in EXPAT blog
Hello there and welcome to the blog. I m from Dubai and been working in Afg for 2 years now .. I work in development, and you? There is a big Filipino population over here ...Let me know if you need any advice here; I am only here till March and ... Read More
Hi - New Comer by trampoline
Hi All, I am a new comer to this site and all it entails..... Currently living/working in Kabul and have been for the last twelve months.
Indeed its very cold in these days, so it would not do to not have proper heating! Try the Park Star hotel in shar - e naw area, its newly renovated, and has excellent rooms, nice restaurant and central location. ME Read More
Hi - New Comer by trampoline
Hi All, I am a new comer to this site and all it entails..... Currently living/working in Kabul and have been for the last twelve months.
Welcome, trampoline I hope you are enjoying your time in Kabul. Ive been here going on 2 years, and will remain here till late March of this year. I work in Development, what about you? Stay well! Mare Read More
Arrival in Kabul by MEtravel
Dear All I will be arriving into Kabul end of Sept to take up a project management position with an NGO. Has anyone had experience shipping personal effects into the country? Given flight baggage restrictions, Im wondering if this is a good ...
Hi I dont have the email addresses of those guest houses,e as Ive got my own villa here ... best to google search,or look on Lonely Planets online guide or book. or search for Whats on in Kabul e-newsletter, I think some of the GHs might advertise ... Read More
Arrival in Kabul by MEtravel
Dear All I will be arriving into Kabul end of Sept to take up a project management position with an NGO. Has anyone had experience shipping personal effects into the country? Given flight baggage restrictions, Im wondering if this is a good ...
Hi Well, as you must know action is hard to come be here. If you want it though, best to try Gandemak Lodge, probably full though, or Raven Rae guest house in shar e nau - both have ok restaurants/bars included, ..or if you know anyone who can get ... Read More
Arrival in Kabul by MEtravel
Dear All I will be arriving into Kabul end of Sept to take up a project management position with an NGO. Has anyone had experience shipping personal effects into the country? Given flight baggage restrictions, Im wondering if this is a good ...
Hi What is the nature of your work here, and how long will you stay? regarding guest houses/hotels, I can vouch for the following places: Raven Rae guest house and restaurant, Shar e Nau, I stayed there for awhile last year ..good location, ... Read More
Arrival in Kabul by MEtravel
Dear All I will be arriving into Kabul end of Sept to take up a project management position with an NGO. Has anyone had experience shipping personal effects into the country? Given flight baggage restrictions, Im wondering if this is a good ...
Yes, I am still here ..now working at a different job from when I first arrived last year though. Are you coming here in early 2012. Get in touch, if so ...I am here straight through until late march, 2012. Cheers Read More
Thai in Kabul !
Hello You should go find the Mai Thai restaurant , its located in Street 15 in wazir Akbar Khan area; you can meet Thai peoople here and the food is not bad, considering we are in Afghanistan! Read More
Arrival in Kabul
Dear All I will be arriving into Kabul end of Sept to take up a project management position with an NGO. Has anyone had experience shipping personal effects into the country? Given flight baggage restrictions, Im wondering if this is a good ... Read More
seeking european hairdresser
Hello Can anyone recommend a good european hairdresser - who charges normal prices unlike those one finds at the Rixos hair salon?! Im just looking for a decent trim and colour ..Much thanks Read More
current social situation in Kabul by MEtravel
I have been offered a job working in the private sector in Kabul. I will be living and working in the city itself. I am trying to get an understanding of what the social / freedom of life in like currently in the city. I am a single female,and I ...
I will let you know what I decide Ive currently got 4 job offers - two here in libya and 2 there .. Tough decisions to make!!! and all this after being un-employed for the last 11 mos!!! M Read More
current social situation in Kabul by MEtravel
I have been offered a job working in the private sector in Kabul. I will be living and working in the city itself. I am trying to get an understanding of what the social / freedom of life in like currently in the city. I am a single female,and I ...
Sounds like a good job ... Where are you now? Where are you from ? What do they say ur living accomodation situation is like? For me, its in guest houses with tansport to/from office the private sector job has said no to walking around freely but ... Read More
current social situation in Kabul by MEtravel
I have been offered a job working in the private sector in Kabul. I will be living and working in the city itself. I am trying to get an understanding of what the social / freedom of life in like currently in the city. I am a single female,and I ...
Hi Destabee What sector of business do you work in? Im in marketing / PR As of today, I got a 2nd job offer in kabul - within an NGO, that I think I prefer ... By all means let us keep in contact and see what we can learn Are you going for sure - ... Read More
Looking for any type of housing for a single person.... by nwa999
I'm single and working here in Tripoli. I trying to move out from my company housing where I live with my boss....shieeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeet. But I can't find any small flat or whatever here in libya. Does anyone know if there's any studio or one bedroom ...
Hello I am also looking for decent and safe single accomodation here ... Can you pass me this agents contact details - where is your flat? Do you pay for 1 year up front? Read More
Looking for any type of housing for a single person.... by nwa999
I'm single and working here in Tripoli. I trying to move out from my company housing where I live with my boss....shieeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeet. But I can't find any small flat or whatever here in libya. Does anyone know if there's any studio or one bedroom ...
Hi If you can afford it, try the studio flats at Palm City, just after Gargarish area - Its a lovely brand new compound on the coast - very expensive though, studios are going for USD 3000/month but fully furnished and with all modern ammenities ... Read More
Looking for any type of housing for a single person.... by nwa999
I'm single and working here in Tripoli. I trying to move out from my company housing where I live with my boss....shieeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeet. But I can't find any small flat or whatever here in libya. Does anyone know if there's any studio or one bedroom ...
Does anyone in Tripoli know of a camera repair place in Tripoli? Ive got an old Nikon 35mm film camera -and it seems the aperature is jammed. Appreciate any advice - thanks Read More
New to Tripoli by MEtravel
I have just come to tripoli from Dubai. I am here exploring business / work opportunities in the field of marketing/PR/corporate communications. I would like to meet people here that are involved in this kind of work. On another note, I am an ...
Hello Why do you say daring? I have worked for the last 15 years in PR agencies in the UAE and handled clients' communications needs across the Middle East/Africa region, with experience in both the private and public sector. More recently , I ... Read More
current social situation in Kabul
I have been offered a job working in the private sector in Kabul. I will be living and working in the city itself. I am trying to get an understanding of what the social / freedom of life in like currently in the city. I am a single female,and I ... Read More
Nice, cheap & Secure beaches by Rain bow_01
DO any one can help where can a family could engoy a summer day on beach?
There are very nice natural beaches just west of Zuwara - You should bring all your picnic stuff, chairs, kids toy, ect with you as the beaches here are completely natural - and stretch all the way to the Tunisian border ...Also best if you drive in ... Read More
New to Tripoli
I have just come to tripoli from Dubai. I am here exploring business / work opportunities in the field of marketing/PR/corporate communications. I would like to meet people here that are involved in this kind of work. On another note, I am an ... Read More