Intercontinental Hotel

This venerable institution was Afghanistan’s first international luxury hotel. It’s a 20-minute drive from the centre of town if the traffic allows, but the hilltop location gives great views of Kabul. The recent refit has lifted the rooms considerably. ATO and Ariana have offices here. There’s also a gym, much needed after sampling the fare of the three restaurants. The pool sometimes has water, but don’t bother looking for the bikini-clad swimmers still sunning themselves in the old 1970s adverts.