Meet Gul Ahmadi
As a community interpreter and travel blogger, I'm Gul Ahmadi, a 55-year-old woman who was born in Afghanistan and now calls Toronto, Canada, home. My life's journey has taken me from the serene valleys of Bamyan to the vibrant streets of Toronto. Having experienced firsthand the challenges of adapting to a new culture, I am passionate about helping other newcomers navigate Canadian society. In my spare time, I document my travels and cultural experiences on my blog, hoping to inspire others to explore the world with an open mind and appreciate the beauty of different cultures. I typically travel with my husband, Habibullah, but I also enjoy solo trips to connect with my heritage and explore new destinations.
- Resilient
- Empathetic
- Curious
- Warm
- Optimistic
- Bamiyan, Afghanistan
- Mazar-i-Sharif, Afghanistan
- Samarkand, Uzbekistan
- Fes, Morocco
- Kabul, Afghanistan
Latest Travel Diaries by Gul Ahmadi
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9 Day TripFamily Adventure in Ngorongoro Conservation AreaDiscover the majestic landscapes and wildlife of Tanzania's Ngorongoro Conservation Area on a memorable family trip.
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10 Day TripExploring the Alpine Charm of Trentino-Alto Adige with My SpouseJoin us as we explore the stunning landscapes and rich culture of Trentino-Alto Adige, Italy, blending Italian charm and Alpine beauty.
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8 Day TripCultural Journey Through Kyoto with FriendsDiscover the cultural wonders of Kyoto with friends, exploring historic temples and serene gardens while staying at Hotel ZIZI Kyoto Gion.
More about Gul Ahmadi
Gul was born and raised in the Bamyan province of Afghanistan. She experienced a relatively peaceful childhood until conflict forced her family to seek refuge. After years of hardship, she and her family were accepted as refugees in Canada, settling in Toronto. Despite the challenges of adapting to a new culture, Gul embraced her new life while cherishing her Afghan roots. She works as a community interpreter, helping other newcomers navigate the complexities of Canadian society. In her spare time, she indulges her passion for travel, exploring the diverse landscapes and cultures of Canada and beyond, documenting her experiences on her blog for Evendo.
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55
Age
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Female
Gender
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Community Interpreter and Travel Blogger
Occupation
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Afghanistan
Birth Country
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Bamyan
Birth City
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Canada
Current Country
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Toronto
Current City
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Married
Marital Status
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Habibullah Ahmadi, Male, 60
Spouse
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Children
- Farzana Ahmadi, Female, 28
Interest
- Cultural preservation
- Refugee support
- Gardening
- Cooking traditional Afghan cuisine
- Learning about different cultures
Hobbies
- Carpet weaving
- Traditional Afghan music
- Attending cultural festivals in Toronto
- Visiting local farmers' markets
- Exploring Toronto's diverse neighborhoods
Recent Articles & Tips by Gul Ahmadi
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Travel AdviceNavigating Cultural Differences: Essential Tips for Respectful TravelUnderstand how to navigate cultural differences with respect and sensitivity during your travels, enhancing your global experiences.
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Travel AdviceCreating a Travel Journal: Documenting Your Adventures with PassionLearn how to create a compelling travel journal that captures your adventures and experiences with creativity and passion.
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Travel AdviceTraveling with Purpose: How to Volunteer AbroadGain insights into how you can volunteer during your travels, making a meaningful impact in the communities you visit.
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Travel AdviceCultural Festivals: A Traveler's Guide to Global CelebrationsExplore the vibrant world of cultural festivals and learn how to participate in these global celebrations during your travels.
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Travel AdviceGardening on the Go: How to Connect with Nature While TravelingLearn how travelers can connect with nature and gardening practices, even while on the move, to enrich their travel experiences.
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Travel AdviceSustainable Travel: Making a Positive Impact on the WorldDiscover how to travel sustainably, minimizing your ecological footprint while maximizing positive impacts on the communities you visit.
Travel Essentials
- Comfortable headscarf
- Universal adapter
- Phrasebook (Dari/English)
- First-aid kit with necessary medications
- Modest clothing suitable for various cultures
Travel Tips
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Always learn a few basic phrases in the local language – it shows respect and opens doors to genuine connections.
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Pack light and smart – layers are your best friend, and less luggage means more freedom to explore.
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Embrace the unexpected – sometimes the best travel moments are the unplanned detours and spontaneous adventures.
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Be mindful of local customs and traditions – dress modestly and be respectful of cultural norms.
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Connect with locals – they are the best source of information and can offer unique insights into their culture and way of life.
Recent Memories from Gul Ahmadi
This Explorers Travel Highlights
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My Travel Highlight
One of my most cherished travel experiences was visiting the Band-e-Amir National Park in Afghanistan. The stunning blue lakes amidst the rugged landscape were breathtaking. Sharing stories and laughter with local families picnicking by the water created a memory I will always treasure.
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Favourite Destination
While Canada has become my new home and I adore exploring its vast landscapes, Afghanistan holds an irreplaceable piece of my heart. Returning to Bamyan after so many years and witnessing the resilience and warmth of the people despite the hardships was an incredibly powerful and positive experience.
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Best Hotel
During my travels in Canada, I had a delightful stay at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise in Alberta. The stunning views of the turquoise lake and the surrounding mountains were simply breathtaking. The hotel's impeccable service and luxurious accommodations made it an unforgettable experience.
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My Adventurous Destination
Navigating the bustling bazaars of Kabul was definitely an adventure! The vibrant energy, the bartering, the sensory overload of spices and sounds – it was exhilarating and a true immersion into Afghan culture.
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My Food Destination
Without a doubt, Kabul is a foodie's paradise! From the savory Kabuli Pulao to the sweet Firni, every meal was a delightful exploration of flavors. I especially enjoyed learning to make Mantu from a local chef – a truly authentic culinary experience.