Swat: A Land Befitting a Holy War
When I visited Israel a few years ago, I found myself looking at barren landscapes and musty old buildings and wondering, "You guys are fighting such big wars over this...?"
Meanwhile, you're hearing a lot about how Pakistan is fending off the Taliban in the Swat Valley of Pakistan, but did you know that the area is considered one of the most beautiful places on the planet? Here are some pix, moving from the scenic to the sad.
Are these your photos? I mean, did you take them? No, I didn't know about that natural beauty. Breathtaking photos.
Diane -- I just pulled 'em off the 'net. I've been up to Pakistan's scenic northern areas once, years ago, and they're really something. Some parts can make the Rockies look like foothills.
Of course people are fighting over this. Every American boy wants to become The Sultan of Swat.
Yes, they seem to have more in common with the Alps. Incredible.
Diane - you'd be fascinated by the people in these sorts of places. Simple village folk, living humbly amid the grandeur. Kinda like many Caribbean residents in a different scenic setting.