Out and about in Kabul

We went out to the far side of town yesterday to see the sights, most specifically the old Queen's Palace, now ruined by war. There is a new, small, national museum nearby with some amazing 3,000 year old treasures. Armed guards frisked us on the way in and out. No surprise as there is little to protect what is inside. Wish we had more time but can't stay in one place too long for security. We tried to get in to the soccer stadium (famous for Taliban public executions. Remember The Kite Runner scenes?) but it was closed. The houses on the hillside are the far side of the TV antennae covered hill we see from the roof our villa. I have no idea how they get up to those homes. I was able to get some street shots from the vehicle, but no images of police, military or the "ring of steel" check points around town. Not allowed. Then off ot Chicken Street (nobody could tell me where the name comes from) for a little last minute shopping. This area has been around since pre-Soviet times as the place for foreigners to go. Saw lots of locals, few -expats. Off to Dubai tomorrow morning. Very much looking forward to getting away from the constant dust in my hair and eyes, not to mention a good meal, soft bed and large shower. Not that I'm whining. Much. We're out again this morning to see a client and maybe get up on top of the other hill overlooking town. Apparently soldiers won't let you take pictures looking down in to town as you can see the Presidential Palace and too many secure locations. Still, it should be interesting.