Inside the Intercontinental in Kabul: A Glimpse of Taliban Rule

المفاهيم الأساسية

The author explores the unique situation at the Intercontinental Hotel under Taliban rule, showcasing the challenges and dynamics of running a luxury hotel in Kabul.

الملخص

The content delves into the transformation of Afghanistan's first luxury hotel, the Intercontinental, now managed by the Taliban. It highlights the interactions between staff members like Faqiri, a marketing manager, and Niazai, a Talib human resources manager. The narrative captures their daily lives, struggles, and aspirations within this complex environment. The article provides insights into how the hotel operates under new leadership and navigates issues such as profit-making, staffing challenges, and cultural restrictions imposed by the Taliban. It also sheds light on historical events that shaped the hotel's past and its significance in Afghan society.

الإحصائيات

"One night in the cheapest room costs 90 francs."
"Faqiri estimates he has lost over half a million francs due to music ban."
"The Intercontinental has 198 rooms in total."

اقتباسات

"I need to understand them. But they never explain themselves." - Faqiri
"He’s got a pure heart. And he's never jealous." - Niazai

الرؤى الأساسية المستخلصة من

Inside the Intercontinental in Kabul, the luxury hotel run by the Taliban

by Andreas Babs... في www.nzz.ch 02-26-2024

https://www.nzz.ch/english/inside-the-intercontinental-in-kabul-the-luxury-hotel-run-by-the-taliban-ld.1756704

استفسارات أعمق

How does Faqiri navigate his role as a marketing manager under Taliban rule?

Faqiri navigates his role as a marketing manager under Taliban rule by adapting to the new circumstances and finding creative ways to promote the Intercontinental Hotel. Despite the challenges posed by the Taliban's restrictions, such as banning music at weddings, Faqiri remains proactive in his approach. He comes up with innovative ideas like hosting events for evacuees and reaching out to potential customers through billboards in Kabul. Additionally, he maintains a positive attitude and works towards making the hotel profitable, even though it is owned by the government and all profits go back to state distribution.

What impact does cultural restrictions like music bans have on hotel operations?

Cultural restrictions like music bans have a significant impact on hotel operations, especially when it comes to hosting events such as weddings. In Afghan culture, weddings are elaborate affairs with music playing a central role in celebrations. The ban on music at weddings not only affects the overall atmosphere but also limits the traditional practices that guests expect. This restriction can lead to decreased interest from potential clients who value these cultural elements in their wedding ceremonies or events.

How do historical events influence perceptions of luxury hotels like Intercontinental?

Historical events play a crucial role in shaping perceptions of luxury hotels like Intercontinental. The hotel has been witness to various political changes and conflicts throughout Afghanistan's tumultuous history. From being frequented by rulers and foreign officials during different regimes to being targeted during attacks by terrorist groups, each event leaves its mark on how people view the establishment. These historical associations can evoke feelings of nostalgia for past glory days or instill fear due to past violent incidents within the premises. As a result, historical context influences how individuals perceive luxury hotels like Intercontinental based on their knowledge of past events associated with them.