It is a fact that no one talks about and doesnt get reported but it is real and you should be aware of it. My first trip was entirely self funded. I spend 5k of my own money to go. IF you fly to Kabul I can put together a LONG list of thoughts, including where to stay, etc. My recommendation though is to NOT fly to Kabul. On my first trip I was detained by the airport police for having the wrong visa stamp. It_Ts a scam where they stamp your passport with the wrong info when you enter and shake you down for cash when you leave. I had to bribe security at every checkpoint to even get INTO the airport. Seriously, it was one of the worst experiences ever and it_Ts not worth it. I dont think it is TOO dangerous, but traveling to Kabul adds a risk that is really unnessicary given that you can fly straight to Bagram and cut out all the potential problems. Also keep in mind that you will have to pay for someone to take you to a guest house, and to Bagram, as wel as the rent for a guest house while in Kabul. Another thing about Kabul, it is like the New York City of Afghanistan but it is STILL AFGHANISTAN . Women are treated like crap and as a blond American you will certainly stick out as a target. I would not advise walking around the streets of