Afghanistan
Afghanistan is a heterogeneous nation, in which there are four major ethnic groups: Pashtoons, Tajiks, Hazaras, and Uzbeks. Numerous other minor ethnic groups (Nuristanis, Baluchis, Turkmens, etc.) also call Afghanistan their home. While the majority of Afghans (99%) belong to the Islamic faith, there are also small pockets of Sikhs, Hindus and even some Jews. The official languages of the country are Pashto and Dari (Afghan Persian). The capital of Afghanistan is Kabul, which throughout history, was admired by many great figures, such as the great Central Asian conqueror, Zahirudeen Babur. Today, Afghanistan is on the road to recovery, after decades of war.

History
Afghanistan (which literally means Land of the Afghan), is a mountainous land-locked country located in Central Asia. It has a history and culture that goes back over 5000 years. Throughout its long, splendid, and sometimes chaotic history, this area of the world has been known by various names. In ancient times, its inhabitants called the land Aryana. In the medieval era, it was called Khorasan, and in modern times, its people have decided to call it Afghanistan. The exact population of Afghanistan is unknown, however, it is estimated to be somewhere around 30 million.

W H A T     Y O U     S H O U L D    K N O W    A B O U T    K A B U L
Seasons	Summer (July - September) - Temperature 25 to 41°C Autumn (September - Nov.) - Temperature 12 to 25°C Winter (November - April) - Temperature -4 to 15°C Note: The temperatures shown here are from Kabul These vary for various geographical parts of the country
Clothing Suggestion	Warm woollens during winter Ladies are required to cover the head, as per local sensitivities
Health Concern	Use bottled mineral water only
Currency	Local currency: Afghani (AFA) Dollars accepted and converted freely Euro not so easy to transact, but accepted

Culture
Although the Afghan population is composed of many distinct ethnic groups, certain elements of their way of life are much the same. Characteristically, the family is the mainstay of the Afghan society. Extremely close bonds exist within the family, which consists of members of several generations. The family is headed by the oldest man, or patriarch, whose word is law for the whole family. Family honour, pride and respect toward other members are highly prized qualities.