Experience in Islamabad, Pakistan by Shah

What is it like to live in Islamabad? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Islamabad is a peaceful capital with wide roads, moderate traffic and beautiful landscape. The Margalla hills mark the city's northern boundary and the city is overall green. Living in Islamabad is recommended if you prefer quiet streets at night and are a day person. The markets are closed by 10 or 11 PM. The traffic is reduced to minimum by 10 or 11 at night in usual conditions.

What is the student lifestyle like in Islamabad?

There are plenty of cafes for students to hang around. Depends on the university you are studying in and how close it is to good places.

How much does it cost to live in Islamabad?

Living in Islamabad costs about 40,000 PKR per month if you are living alone. The residence in a hostel or shared apartment will cost about 15K and the food and living depends on you but most food places in Islamabad are expensive.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Islamabad? Is there any advice you can give?

It is not so difficult to find accommodation in Islamabad. But you'll need to get in touch with the local real estate dealers and check newspapers. Online listings are not so common.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

The food has a vast variety. You will find halaal food everywhere. The food variety varies from Pakistani cuisine to chinese and continental including thai and japanese in some places as well. I enjoy the local desi dishes. Biryani is a must try here but not every vendor makes a good biryani. However the most famous dish in Islamabad is pulao. It's a dish of rice with chicken or beef or mutton.

What places would you recommend visiting in Islamabad?

Islamabad Monument, Faisal Mosque, the Margalla Hills, the hiking trails on Margalla Hills, F-9 Park, Jinnah Super Market, Centaurus Mall, Super Market, Lake View Park

Is it good to eat out in Islamabad? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Islamabad has some really good restaurants. I love to eat at Monal since it is on top of the Margalla Hills and you get a beautiful view of the city from their terrace while you eat. Another good place to try is Cafe 1969 with it's splendid location in the middle of the woods. I would also recommend eating at Tuscany Courtyard because of its overall environment and ambience.

Is the nightlife good in Islamabad? Where is good to go?

Nope. Islamabad doesn't really have a nightlife except for private parties and events. People usually sit out at cafe's or coffee shops at night for meet-ups.

What advice would you give future students heading to Islamabad?

Expect peace and calm and friendly environment. The weather is hot in summer but it rains often in moonsoon. Winters are cold and windy.