Vibrant Heart of Kabul: Shar-e Naw

• Helloسلام
  [salaam]
• Goodbyeخداحافظ
  [khuda hafiz]
• Yesبله
  [bale]
• Noنه
  [na]
• Please/You're welcomeخواهش می‌کنم
  [khahesh mikonam]
• Thank youممنون
  [mamnoon]
• Excuse me/Sorryببخشید
  [bebakhshid]
• How are you?حال شما چطور است؟
  [haal shoma chetor ast?]
• Fine. And you?خوبم. شما؟
  [khobam. shoma?]
• Do you speak English?آیا انگلیسی حرف می‌زنید؟
  [aya englisi harf mizanid?]
• I don't understandمتوجه نمی‌شوم
  [motajeh nemishavam]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseلطفاً منو را ببینید
  [lotfan menu ra bebinid]
• I don't eat meatگوشت نمی‌خورم
  [goosht nemikhoram]
• Cheers!سلامتی!
  [salamatii]
• I would like to pay, pleaseلطفاً پرداخت کنید
  [lotfan pardakht konid]

• Help!کمک!
  [komak]
• Go away!برو!
  [boro]
• Call the Police!پلیس را صدا کنید!
  [polis ra seda konid]
• Call a doctor!یک دکتر بخوانید!
  [yek doctor bakhaneed]
• I'm lostگم شده‌ام
  [gom shodeam]
• I'm illبیمار هستم
  [bimar hastam]

• I'd like to buy...می‌خواهم بخرم...
  [mikhaham bekhoram...]
• I'm just lookingفقط نگاه می‌کنم
  [faghat negah mikonam]
• How much is it?قیمتش چقدر است؟
  [ghimatash chand dar ast?]
• That's too expensiveخیلی گران است
  [kheili geran ast]
• Can you lower the price?می‌توانید قیمت را کم کنید؟
  [mitavanid ghimat ra kam konid?]

• What time is it?ساعت چند است؟
  [saa'at chand ast?]
• It's one o'clockیک است
  [yek ast]
• Half past (10)نیمه (ده)
  [nimeh (dah)]
• Morningصبح
  [sobh]
• Afternoonظهر
  [zohr]
• Eveningعصر
  [asr]
• Yesterdayدیروز
  [diruz]
• Todayامروز
  [emruz]
• Tomorrowفردا
  [farda]
• 1یک
  [yek]
• 2دو
  [do]
• 3سه
  [se]
• 4چهار
  [char]
• 5پنج
  [panj]
• 6شش
  [shesh]
• 7هفت
  [haft]
• 8هشت
  [hasht]
• 9نه
  [noh]
• 10ده
  [dah]

• Where's a/the...?کجاست ...؟
  [kojast ...?]
• What's the address?آدرس چیست؟
  [adres chist?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?می‌توانید به من نشان دهید (روی نقشه)؟
  [mitavanid be man neshan dahid (rooye naqsheh)?]
• When's the next (bus)?بعدی (اتوبوس) چه زمانی است؟
  [badi (otobus) che zamani ast?]
• A ticket (to ....)یک بلیط (به ...)
  [yek bilit (be ...)]

Shar-e Naw emerged as a significant urban neighborhood in Kabul during the 20th century, particularly in the 1960s and 1970s when it began to develop into a modern urban area. This period saw the construction of many important buildings, including hotels, shops, and cultural institutions, reflecting the aspirations of a rapidly modernizing Afghanistan.

As Kabul's cultural and intellectual center, Shar-e Naw has been home to numerous art galleries, theaters, and cultural festivals. The neighborhood has nurtured a vibrant arts scene, housing many artists and writers who contributed to the cultural landscape of Afghanistan, particularly in the late 20th century.

During the Soviet-Afghan War in the 1980s, Shar-e Naw was significantly affected by the conflict. Many buildings were damaged or destroyed, and the neighborhood became a focal point for resistance. The war impacted the population, leading to a demographic shift as many residents fled the violence.

Following the fall of the Taliban regime in 2001, Shar-e Naw underwent a period of reconstruction and revitalization. International aid and investment helped restore many of its damaged buildings and infrastructure. This era marked a resurgence of commerce and social life, with new shops, restaurants, and institutions opening in the neighborhood.

In recent years, Shar-e Naw has experienced a cultural renaissance, becoming a hub for youth and modern Afghan culture. Cafés, art spaces, and cultural events have flourished, reflecting a blend of traditional Afghan heritage and contemporary influences. The area has become a symbol of resilience and the emerging Afghan identity in a post-conflict society.

Shar-e Naw is centrally located in Kabul and is accessible from various neighborhoods. From the airport, taxis are the most convenient option, taking approximately 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. If you are coming from other neighborhoods, local taxis (often referred to as 'yellow taxis') are available, or you may opt for a ride-hailing service, if available. Public buses operate but may not be reliable for tourists unfamiliar with the routes.

Shar-e Naw is best navigated by taxi or on foot, as it is compact and many attractions are within walking distance. While public transportation exists, it can be crowded and may not be the safest option for tourists. Be cautious when using bicycles, as the traffic can be chaotic and roads may not be well-maintained.

Shar-e Naw is generally safer compared to other neighborhoods in Kabul, but it is essential to remain vigilant. Avoid areas known for higher crime rates, such as certain parts of Karte Se and Microryan. Always keep your belongings secure and be cautious when walking alone, especially at night.

In case of emergency, contact local authorities. For medical emergencies, the Afghan Red Crescent Society can be reached at 119. It is advisable to have travel insurance that includes medical coverage. Familiarize yourself with the location of nearby hospitals and pharmacies for non-emergency situations.

Fashion: Do dress modestly; women should wear long skirts and cover their arms, while men should avoid shorts. Religion: Do respect local customs; be mindful of prayer times and avoid loud behavior near mosques. Public Transport: Do give up your seat for the elderly; don't engage in loud conversations. Greetings: Do greet with a handshake; don't use first names unless invited. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes; don’t refuse food or drink offered to you as it may be considered impolite.

To experience Shar-e Naw like a local, visit the bustling bazaars for fresh produce and traditional Afghan goods. Try local eateries and street food stalls for authentic flavors. Engage with shopkeepers and locals, who are often welcoming and eager to share insights about their culture. If possible, attend local events or festivals to immerse yourself in the community.