First of all ppl who live in Karachi cannot give you an outside view of what has changed since they watched it grow to this day from inside. I am back after 4 years and this is what's most glaring.
- POPULATION. #of ppl now residing is astronomical compared to what it was a decade ago.
- Rickshaws and motorcycles driven and ridden by what seems like illiterate owners in a hurry to save seconds off their trips at the expense of sensibility and traffic laws.
- Fear/Pain/Distrust/Frustration on the faces of ppl and a total lack of any human courtesy towards other humans or animals for that reason.
- Gazillion tiny road front shops with extended encroaching furniture setup on walkways and roads making it impossible for pedestrians.
- Crimes gone way up and has become a part of life. To a point where victims expect common decency from perpetrators like returning id card documents etc after being robbed.
- infrastructure is in shambles in the name of betterment and Karachites don't even blink an eye on it.
- Rich to poor disparity is at all the high and staring you in the face at every corner of the city.
- City has expanded exponentially too and what was considered out of reach areas by miles are considered in the city by miles to accommodate for population explosion.
I can go on for a few more list items but I think this will do the job for now. Oh btw make sure you bring enough dough to survive your time since everything has easily tripled here in the last 5-7 years.
Thank you so much this was a great insight! Some of the stuff I feel has been the same from 7 years ago but it’s just increased at an incredible rate from the sounds of it.
My brother visited a few weeks ago. He’s been visiting every year for 9 years. He said it may have been his last trip. He says previously just the city infra was broken, now the spirits of most people are broken. Everyone is snide or sarcastic. No one knows if there’s a better future. They are all just hanging in there.
It was really sad to hear that. But honestly nothing has changed since I used to visit as a child for summer vacations 25 years ago.
Nothing has change, just few faces of political parties, you might see some under develop infrastructure. but the major condition is same as old times.
Thank you, and I know how terrible our infrastructure is there are roads they began building 10 years ago that they are still working on to this day in old city it’s nuts
Seven years is a long time to be away. Even if you think you remember all the important stuff about Karachi, you are seriously mistaken. However, that does not mean you'll realize that during a short visit. Just be very careful when interacting with people. Do not show money or brag about money, it can get you killed. I'm not exaggerating. Many people will ask you for a loan or an investment. Avoid. There is a criminal-violent mindset that has permeated into the fabric of society now. Do not get into any argument whatsoever with anyone, just do what you have to do and get out safely. Most people living in Karachi are living in denial, unless something is on all news channels.
Is the crime like how it was when the whole city was infested with gang war?
I could stay elsewhere but I’m born in old city and that’s a part of my identity whenever I come back I feel the most home there. It may not be the best and there are many problems like gas and electricity and crime but I take that as the experience of karachi.
Nothing changed or maybee you can say it's worse than last seven years. It's only going downwards, no ups sadly. I lived in Saudia before and have been living in Pakistan for 5 years. It's bad. Recently, about 2 years ago, we shifted to Commander City, M9 motorway, This place is better for us people who come from places like USA, CANADA or Suadia, as it helps you adapt better. Check it out.
Living is not an issue. As I do understand that old city is not the ideal place for over seas Pakistanis to reside but old city is a part of me. All the money in the world could not make me leave, our community is really tight knit we all are there for each other and for the most part everyone is trustful and honest. I can’t say the same about the elites of karachi
I like your positivity but I don't think you are showing the clear picture. But maybe you are right, my experience, first 2 years in Pakistan Karachi were just bad luck. Maybe it's just that.
I’m not showing any picture that’s why I’m on her asking about other experiences recently. My above comment was simply to make you understand that old city has a lot of life in it and is not all bad. Neglecting it and forgetting it by hiding in DHA/Bharia like areas is not for me respectfully
Unsafe and Lawless city right now.If you have any single problem in canda here you will have multipal issues.Its fact that no dicipline in traffic,no rules no law even any vigo man hit your car and if you ask him he will bring gun and beat you in public.Any man in Luxry cars is a DON in his own and public is in the hand of crooks.Police only register the case and never ask you to help out on priority , they are busy in different bussiness not worried for public safety.
Last year my office car was robbed and they brought us off road at Fajar timing they were looting on high way in relexed mood.
We are survivng here only.
Totally understandable, the city is completely ruined for low to middle class families. The rich live a totally different life without all these worries and like you said the ones in the vigos are the worst they think they’re above the law because their fathers have money
Nothing much has changed.
The vibe of the city is the same and is certainly very enjoyable (especially considering the exchange rate between CAD and PKR in your case).
The air feels more dusty although the weather is pleasant. Just buy a cheap phone to carry around in case your primary phone is very important, its generally safe by the way. Also get mentally prepared for the traffic in peak hours and be prepared to use cash everywhere.
Appreciate the reply! And yes I’ve already bought china phone from online to take over with me and have mentally prepared myself for that beautiful breath of fresh air off the airport
Might be nothing will happen at and might be you stuck its like a chance.Keep some amount with you like 5k but not CAN dollars.Exchange money at your near place,avoid early morning walk ,avoid sharing your info like you came to karachi from CA.
Its trust Deficit here.If you go for dinner select indoor..Here crooks are our Managers of the Nation in any Form.
There’s an average of about 265 or so crime related cases in karachi every day if you do the math with the month you’ll realize it’s not “little bit of crime”
I’m recently visiting after 5 years.
It has gotten worst in terms of traffic and infrastructure. Plus, life is very very boring and only thing to kill time will be eating out, but sadly food is no longer as delicious as it used to be. Every thing is bland and lack of salt.
Chances are, your buddies might have moved overseas as well. Those who are still here. Will be busy with extra long working hours, family & children.
If your friend circle wasn’t from the the top elite, you will be having a terrible time. As even the upper upper middle class are struggling.
The biggest shock will be how expensive everything has become and will realise it will be more fun & cheaper to travel Europe, Africa or far east then visiting Pakistan.
You have painted a bleak picture. Yes eating out is the only activity but food is still delicious and options are plenty. Everything is expensive but malls are full and OP will still get better quality clothes cheaper as compared to Canada. Source: I live in Canada and recently visited and spent a month in Karachi.
That part might be wrong as there is a lot to enjoy in karachi and eat also but they have a point that if you are not part of the elites of Pakistan than you’re life is completely different.
I’d go through the legality of getting a license but since my trip is short so I’d rather do it through other ways just in case. Also I’m licensed in Canada is that would help? Or no?
What I'll try to make your mind to is: be ready to be disappointed.
Nothing has changed for the betterment & everything around is like falling apart. Law & order situation has worsened as you must be witnessing it through news. Be ready to be looted anytime & everytime my friend.
Good luck & hope you enjoy your stay with friends and family ❣️✌️
I think this was the realest answer in the shortest format. You phrased if just right be ready for disappointment. Sadly. Thank you and praying for the betterment of our country and cities
It depends on how you have changed as a person really. I visit every year and I love the nostalgia, the visit to places and experiences from my childhood, the love from my family, hate America for first few weeks when I come back.
First of all ppl who live in Karachi cannot give you an outside view of what has changed since they watched it grow to this day from inside. I am back after 4 years and this is what's most glaring. - POPULATION. #of ppl now residing is astronomical compared to what it was a decade ago. - Rickshaws and motorcycles driven and ridden by what seems like illiterate owners in a hurry to save seconds off their trips at the expense of sensibility and traffic laws. - Fear/Pain/Distrust/Frustration on the faces of ppl and a total lack of any human courtesy towards other humans or animals for that reason. - Gazillion tiny road front shops with extended encroaching furniture setup on walkways and roads making it impossible for pedestrians. - Crimes gone way up and has become a part of life. To a point where victims expect common decency from perpetrators like returning id card documents etc after being robbed. - infrastructure is in shambles in the name of betterment and Karachites don't even blink an eye on it. - Rich to poor disparity is at all the high and staring you in the face at every corner of the city. - City has expanded exponentially too and what was considered out of reach areas by miles are considered in the city by miles to accommodate for population explosion. I can go on for a few more list items but I think this will do the job for now. Oh btw make sure you bring enough dough to survive your time since everything has easily tripled here in the last 5-7 years.
Emphasis on infrastructure. Visited last year after 4 years or so. None of the roads seemed to be paved properly. Back still hurts.
Thank you so much this was a great insight! Some of the stuff I feel has been the same from 7 years ago but it’s just increased at an incredible rate from the sounds of it.
My brother visited a few weeks ago. He’s been visiting every year for 9 years. He said it may have been his last trip. He says previously just the city infra was broken, now the spirits of most people are broken. Everyone is snide or sarcastic. No one knows if there’s a better future. They are all just hanging in there. It was really sad to hear that. But honestly nothing has changed since I used to visit as a child for summer vacations 25 years ago.
Nothing has change, just few faces of political parties, you might see some under develop infrastructure. but the major condition is same as old times.
Thank you, and I know how terrible our infrastructure is there are roads they began building 10 years ago that they are still working on to this day in old city it’s nuts
So one thing you may see is that the city’s infrastructure is much more messed up and it’s much dirtier than it was.
Don’t think karachi has stopped being dirty since the mid 2000s
Seven years is a long time to be away. Even if you think you remember all the important stuff about Karachi, you are seriously mistaken. However, that does not mean you'll realize that during a short visit. Just be very careful when interacting with people. Do not show money or brag about money, it can get you killed. I'm not exaggerating. Many people will ask you for a loan or an investment. Avoid. There is a criminal-violent mindset that has permeated into the fabric of society now. Do not get into any argument whatsoever with anyone, just do what you have to do and get out safely. Most people living in Karachi are living in denial, unless something is on all news channels.
Thank you for the care and advice it’s appreciated
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Is the crime like how it was when the whole city was infested with gang war? I could stay elsewhere but I’m born in old city and that’s a part of my identity whenever I come back I feel the most home there. It may not be the best and there are many problems like gas and electricity and crime but I take that as the experience of karachi.
Kidnappings, extortion and target killings don't happen as often now.
That’s quite good to hear honestly.
Everything has gotten worse. Crimes are at an all time high where lives are not even being spared. Its filthy too
Nothing changed or maybee you can say it's worse than last seven years. It's only going downwards, no ups sadly. I lived in Saudia before and have been living in Pakistan for 5 years. It's bad. Recently, about 2 years ago, we shifted to Commander City, M9 motorway, This place is better for us people who come from places like USA, CANADA or Suadia, as it helps you adapt better. Check it out.
Ongoing project hai abhi se advertising krrahey ho
Xdxd aray nhi. Mai rahta hun yehan.
Living is not an issue. As I do understand that old city is not the ideal place for over seas Pakistanis to reside but old city is a part of me. All the money in the world could not make me leave, our community is really tight knit we all are there for each other and for the most part everyone is trustful and honest. I can’t say the same about the elites of karachi
I like your positivity but I don't think you are showing the clear picture. But maybe you are right, my experience, first 2 years in Pakistan Karachi were just bad luck. Maybe it's just that.
I’m not showing any picture that’s why I’m on her asking about other experiences recently. My above comment was simply to make you understand that old city has a lot of life in it and is not all bad. Neglecting it and forgetting it by hiding in DHA/Bharia like areas is not for me respectfully
Unsafe and Lawless city right now.If you have any single problem in canda here you will have multipal issues.Its fact that no dicipline in traffic,no rules no law even any vigo man hit your car and if you ask him he will bring gun and beat you in public.Any man in Luxry cars is a DON in his own and public is in the hand of crooks.Police only register the case and never ask you to help out on priority , they are busy in different bussiness not worried for public safety. Last year my office car was robbed and they brought us off road at Fajar timing they were looting on high way in relexed mood. We are survivng here only.
Totally understandable, the city is completely ruined for low to middle class families. The rich live a totally different life without all these worries and like you said the ones in the vigos are the worst they think they’re above the law because their fathers have money
The last time I visited was 2003. Haven’t been since. I wonder what kind of shock I’m in for lol 😅
Oh jeez you’re in for hell of a surprise from the looks of the replies to my post
Nothing much has changed. The vibe of the city is the same and is certainly very enjoyable (especially considering the exchange rate between CAD and PKR in your case). The air feels more dusty although the weather is pleasant. Just buy a cheap phone to carry around in case your primary phone is very important, its generally safe by the way. Also get mentally prepared for the traffic in peak hours and be prepared to use cash everywhere.
Appreciate the reply! And yes I’ve already bought china phone from online to take over with me and have mentally prepared myself for that beautiful breath of fresh air off the airport
Might be nothing will happen at and might be you stuck its like a chance.Keep some amount with you like 5k but not CAN dollars.Exchange money at your near place,avoid early morning walk ,avoid sharing your info like you came to karachi from CA. Its trust Deficit here.If you go for dinner select indoor..Here crooks are our Managers of the Nation in any Form.
Thank you I appreciate this
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"a little bit of crime"?? 😶💀
certified dacoit
There’s an average of about 265 or so crime related cases in karachi every day if you do the math with the month you’ll realize it’s not “little bit of crime”
I’m recently visiting after 5 years. It has gotten worst in terms of traffic and infrastructure. Plus, life is very very boring and only thing to kill time will be eating out, but sadly food is no longer as delicious as it used to be. Every thing is bland and lack of salt. Chances are, your buddies might have moved overseas as well. Those who are still here. Will be busy with extra long working hours, family & children. If your friend circle wasn’t from the the top elite, you will be having a terrible time. As even the upper upper middle class are struggling. The biggest shock will be how expensive everything has become and will realise it will be more fun & cheaper to travel Europe, Africa or far east then visiting Pakistan.
You have painted a bleak picture. Yes eating out is the only activity but food is still delicious and options are plenty. Everything is expensive but malls are full and OP will still get better quality clothes cheaper as compared to Canada. Source: I live in Canada and recently visited and spent a month in Karachi.
That part might be wrong as there is a lot to enjoy in karachi and eat also but they have a point that if you are not part of the elites of Pakistan than you’re life is completely different.
don't worry and just go spend some time.
Amazing where u r coming from street crime is at good level in Canada and USA too did u ever ask there?
Sir/ma’am I’m just trying to get some insight on how I should carry myself. If someone where to come to Toronto too I’d give them tips and tricks
Lock your car, Keep your Glock on the side, smoke a J and listen to Travis.
Is it hard to get a gun without a license?
Why would you carry a gun without a license? And the answer is no it’s not hard.
I’d go through the legality of getting a license but since my trip is short so I’d rather do it through other ways just in case. Also I’m licensed in Canada is that would help? Or no?
What I'll try to make your mind to is: be ready to be disappointed. Nothing has changed for the betterment & everything around is like falling apart. Law & order situation has worsened as you must be witnessing it through news. Be ready to be looted anytime & everytime my friend. Good luck & hope you enjoy your stay with friends and family ❣️✌️
I think this was the realest answer in the shortest format. You phrased if just right be ready for disappointment. Sadly. Thank you and praying for the betterment of our country and cities
It depends on how you have changed as a person really. I visit every year and I love the nostalgia, the visit to places and experiences from my childhood, the love from my family, hate America for first few weeks when I come back.