Introduction
As someone who’s hosted over 10,000+ guests at Mabali Island, I’ve had the privilege of meeting all kinds of travelers — families, couples, influencers, corporate groups, locals, and expats.
And over time, a pattern emerged.
There are things about Pakistani tourists that we all experience as resort owners — but no one talks about them publicly. Either out of fear of criticism, or simply because no one’s asked the hospitality side of the story.
So let me share — respectfully, honestly, and with a desire to help us all grow into better travelers.
1. Pakistani Tourists Love Nature — But Often Forget to Respect It
Most guests are blown away by the lake views, sunsets, and greenery.
But within hours, we see:
- Plastic bottles on walking trails
- Loud music in peaceful zones
- Car horns in quiet nature areas
Respect for nature is not just about loving it — it’s about leaving no trace.
2. Many First-Time Tourists Simply Don’t Know the Etiquette
You’d be surprised how many guests ask:
- “Can we bring our own daigs and speaker system?”
- “Can we park on the grass?”
- “Can we start a BBQ wherever we want?”
These aren’t bad people.
They’re often just new to tourism — and unfamiliar with basic hospitality norms.
Instead of judging, we need to educate gently and clearly.
3. Value Is Measured Emotionally, Not Logically
You can give a guest:
- A luxury stay
- Water sports
- Candlelight dinner…
But if:
- One staff member spoke dryly
- Their room wasn’t ready at 2pm sharp
- Or they saw another group getting a “discount”
That becomes their whole review.
In Pakistani culture, “izzat” and “treatment” matter more than facilities. Understanding this helps you serve better.
4. Families Travel in Groups — But Often Book Like Singles
It’s not uncommon for:
- 12 people to book a hut for 4
- Kids to be counted as “just 2 babies”
- Meals to be “shared with homemade food”
It’s not always out of dishonesty — sometimes it’s just cultural budgeting.
But it puts pressure on facilities, especially during peak days.
Clear booking rules + kind reminders = smoother experience for all.
5. They Love Experiences Over Amenities
Many tourists don’t care about thread count or minibar items.
What they do remember:
- A friendly jetski trainer
- A surprise bonfire
- Staff calling them by name
- Their child’s birthday song by the team
Pakistani tourists value connection over decoration.
Build memories, not just rooms.
6. Feedback is Given Emotionally, Not Structurally
A guest might post:
“Worst experience ever.”
Because:
- It rained
- A bee flew near them
- Another family was loud
Learn to read the emotion beneath the complaint.
Often, it’s not what they say — it’s how something made them feel.
7. They Are Evolving — And So Should We
In the past few years, we’ve seen:
- Families who clean up their table
- Guests tipping and thanking the cleaning staff
- Young travelers asking, “Do you recycle this plastic?”
This is encouraging.
Pakistani tourists are evolving — they just need spaces that encourage that growth.
💭 Final Thoughts
As resort director, our job isn’t just to serve — it’s also to help shape a better tourism culture in Pakistan.
Let’s do it with:
- Respect, not judgment
- Systems, not rants
- Patience, not pride
Because the more we educate with love, the better future we build — for guests, hosts, and the land we all love.
Have you seen these behaviors while traveling?
Or are you a fellow resort owner with stories of your own?
Let’s talk — respectfully — in the comments.
The goal isn’t blame. The goal is better tourism in Pakistan.
