UK Man Explores Taliban-Controlled Afghanistan, Calls It ‘Incredible’

A British national has sparked controversy after describing his recent trip to Taliban-controlled Afghanistan as “the best experience of my life.” Despite a strong warning from the UK government against travel to Afghanistan due to its volatile security situation, Anthony Macfarlane, 31, from Dover, undertook an eight-day journey in early March, following a five-day trip to North Korea.

The UK Foreign Office has advised against travel to Afghanistan, stating, “You should not travel to Afghanistan. The security situation is volatile. If you are a British national and you are detained, you could face months or years of imprisonment.” This warning comes in the wake of a May 2023 UN report highlighting severe restrictions on Afghan women, including limited work opportunities, the need for a male relative to access services, and the ongoing deprivation of education for girls.

According to a study by the World Justice Project released in 2024, Afghanistan ranks as the third worst country in the world for upholding the rule of law, following only Venezuela and Cambodia. These issues have reportedly intensified since the Taliban regained control in August 2021 after the withdrawal of US and NATO forces.

Anthony’s Journey to Afghanistan

Despite these daunting realities, Macfarlane was eager to “see through the headlines.” He obtained a visa through the tour company Let’s Go Afghanistan and flew from Heathrow to Dubai, eventually landing at Kabul International Airport. Traveling solo, he admitted that he felt nervous about the journey due to fears of detainment. Yet, his desire to understand the country beyond the media portrayal drove him to embark on this adventure.

During his eight-day trip, which included visits to cities such as Herat, Bamyan, and Mazar-i-Sharif, Macfarlane was accompanied by a tour guide and a driver. He traveled in a Toyota Corolla, a common vehicle in Afghanistan, and estimated the total cost of his trip at around £1,200. He faced extreme temperatures, reaching up to 42°C.

Macfarlane observed that the country operates under Sharia law, affecting daily life significantly. “Women can’t enter parks,” he noted, adding, “One issue that’s often at the forefront of our minds from the outside is the lack of education for women, and that is indeed a reality.” He remarked on the visible gender disparity in the workforce, contrasting it with the situation in the UK.

Culinary Delights and Cultural Insights

Macfarlane was pleasantly surprised by the culinary offerings in Afghanistan. “The food was incredible, some of the best I’ve tasted in any country,” he shared. He highlighted the generous portions of lamb, kebabs, bread, and yogurt, along with a variety of fresh fruits like melons, cherries, and apricots. Alcohol was unavailable, with water, chai tea, and coffee being the primary beverages, while energy drinks appeared to be popular among locals.

He also noted the preference for local family markets over supermarkets, suggesting that this aspect of Afghan life could offer lessons to the UK. “People are very involved in farming, and everyone seems to have some sort of business venture,” Macfarlane stated, adding that he was impressed by traditional services like shoe repairs that are less common in Western countries.

In an effort to respect local culture, Macfarlane purchased a full set of Afghan clothing, which was custom-made for him within hours and at a low cost. He emphasized the importance of social interactions during his travels, stating, “Regardless of beliefs, government, or region, it’s the social interactions with ordinary people that make a trip special.”

The growing interest in Afghanistan as a travel destination is evident, with approximately 691 tourists visiting the country in 2021. This number climbed to 2,300 in 2022 and reached 7,000 in 2023, according to data from the Associated Press.

While Macfarlane’s experience was largely positive, he acknowledged the significant challenges that women would face in similar circumstances. His journey serves as a reminder of the complexities of travel in politically and socially volatile regions, where perceptions can be deeply influenced by media narratives and personal experiences.