A young German tourist, who had kick-started his bike on June 8 in Nepal for a tourism venture to his home country is nowadays enjoying a bike ride and tasty food at roadside eateries in Pakistan without any security problem.
“I was informed about security concerns but all I have come to know about Pakistan from the Indian border to Multan is the hospitality of the Pakistani people, their spicy food and above all the unique taste of aromatic Pakistani mango that I will remember forever,” Christopher said while talking to reporters here. “I will never forget the warmth of people from Lahore to Multan,” he added.
Christopher is planning to travel to Iran, Turkey and a few other countries before entering Germany from where he would leave for Korea to resume his graduation studies.
“I bought a 150CC used motorcycle in Katmandu for $500 for the tour. My bike developed faults at some places but people of Lahore went an extra mile in extending all possible help to me from route guidance to bike repair and other assistance.”
“I faced no problem from Lahore to Multan.”
He said he preferred dhaba ie makeshift eateries on roadside to big hotels and tasted for the first time the food cooked with red chili and spices.
To a question, he said he was inspired by the rich culture and centuries-old heritage of Multan, a city he described as the one among the oldest living cities on earth along with Rome. He also visited markets and historical places in Multan and added that he liked the mausoleums and their architecture.
He said he would like to write about Multan and also tell his friends about his experience in Pakistan that was contrary to what was being portrayed.
Christopher said people had also informed him about security concerns during travel from Multan to Iran but hoped people of Pakistan would extend the same kind of hospitality to their guest from Germany like they did from Lahore to Multan.