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gokitetour · 11 months

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A FIRST-TIME visitor to Iran? THINGS IN IRAQ YOU SHOULD NOT MISS

For a first-time visitor setting foot in the heart of the Middle East, the distinction between Iran and Iraq's rich varieties of culture, history, and natural wonders is paramount. Iran, with its millennia-old ruins, epitomises the grandeur of ancient Persia, especially in Persepolis. This ceremonial capital invites travellers to relive an era of unmatched splendour, where art and architecture knew no bounds. Meanwhile, the poetic city of Esfahan in Iran claims the title of "Half of the World." Its vibrant Islamic architecture and the majestic Naqsh-e Jahan Square capture the imagination of every wanderer. On the other hand, Iraq, a cradle of civilizations, possesses its own plethora of historic sites waiting to be explored. Both nations, with intertwined yet distinct histories, offer unforgettable experiences for those embarking on a Middle Eastern journey. So, while you delve deep into Iran's ancient cities, don't miss out on the treasures that Iraq holds within its borders.

Here are some things you should not miss in Iraq.

Journey to Ancient Persia: Prepare for a remarkable journey through time as you explore Persepolis, the awe-inspiring capital of the Achaemenid Empire. Nestled in Fars Province, these captivating remains offer a remarkable window into the night and artistic brilliance of ancient Persia. Adorned with stunning reliefs and towering columns, it's no wonder that Persepolis has earned prestigious recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in history by visiting the legendary Gate of All Nations and the magnificent Apadana Palace."

The Half of the World: Known as "Nesf-e-Jahan" or the "Half of the World," Esfahan is home to some of the most stunning Islamic architecture in the world. The magnificent Naqsh-e Jahan Square, the second-largest square on the planet, is surrounded by iconic landmarks such as the Shah Mosque, the Ali Qapu Palace, and the Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque. While wandering around the city, you'll come across picturesque bridges like Si-o-se-pol and the Khaju Bridge – idyllic spots to unwind and take in the breathtaking views.

The Heartbeat of Modern Iran: Experience the vibrant fusion of tradition and modernity in the lively capital city of Tehran. Delve into Iran's rich history at the National Museum of Iran, where you can explore fascinating exhibits. Uncover the beauty of the Golestan Palace, boasting mirrored halls and exquisite gardens situated in the core of the city. And for an unforgettable panoramic view of the sprawling metropolis, don't miss the chance to ascend the Milad Tower. Tehran is where the modern spirit of Iran truly comes alive.

The Quintessence of Persian Landscape: When talking about Shiraz, one can't help but think of poetry, enchanting gardens, and fine wine. This remarkable city gave birth to legendary Persian poets such as Hafez and Sa'adi, whose resting places have been transformed into serene gardens. Make sure to visit these peaceful havens during your stay. In addition, don't miss out on the opportunity to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Eram Garden, which perfectly captures the essence of Persian garden design.

Dunes and Dreams: Marvel at the sheer beauty of the Lut Desert, recognised as one of the hottest spots on our planet. The vast expanse of the Gandom Beryan plateau boasts scorching ground temperatures that astound even the most seasoned travelers. However, it's not just the intense heat that draws visitors in, but also the extraordinary landscapes. Prepare to be mesmerised by the endless sand dunes and the artistry of the wind-carved Yardangs—colossal ridges that add a surreal touch to this extraordinary desert.

Treasures of Tabriz Bazaar: Nestled in the charming northern city of Tabriz, this bazaar holds the distinction of being one of the most ancient and expansive covered marketplaces worldwide. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it's a labyrinth of winding passageways, caravanserais, and magnificent domed halls. Meandering through its bustling aisles, you'll discover a treasure trove of enticing merchandise, ranging from fragrant spices to exquisite jewellery. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this extraordinary place, where you can feel the beating heart of the legendary Silk Road and even collect some mementos to cherish.

A Biodiverse Coastal Paradise: For those yearning to escape the arid scenery, head to Iran's inviting northern coastline along the vast Caspian Sea, where lush green panoramas await. Towns like Rasht and Bandar-e Anzali beckon with their delectable fresh seafood offerings and serve as gateways to the majestic Hirnantian forests. These ancient woodlands, designated as UNESCO sites, have thrived for an astonishing 25 to 50 million years. Within their leafy embrace, you'll encounter a thriving tapestry of biodiverse wonders, making this coastal paradise an absolute haven for nature enthusiasts.

Embarking on a journey through the Middle East is like diving into a deeply-layered mosaic of history, culture, and natural wonders. For travellers purchasing an Iran tour package from India, Iran unfurls a canvas of mesmerising landscapes and ancient treasures. Its majestic ruins, especially in the iconic Persepolis, transport visitors back to an era when Persia was an epicentre of art and knowledge. But as one meanders through Iran's poetic streets, neighbouring Iraq beckons with its own allure. First-time visitors often stand at the crossroads of modernity and antiquity in Iraq, from the bustling bazaars to the age-old Mesopotamian sites. These two nations, sharing history yet retaining their unique identities, promise an unforgettable Middle Eastern sojourn. So, while Iran's allure might capture the heart, the soul shouldn't miss out on the myriad wonders Iraq offers. It's not just a trip, but a journey through time.

#Iran tour package from India #Iran tour package from India offers #Iran tour package from India price #Book Iran tour package from India

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themusalini-blog · 5 years

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The Basic Facts of Uzbekistan

https://sv.ivisa.com/uzbekistan-e-visa

It is a good idea to deal with direct importers of handmade rugs. Rural roads and highways aren't lit. LGBTQ2 travellers ought to carefully consider the dangers of travelling to Uzbekistan.

The nation of Afghanistan is situated in Central Asia. Country rugs have a decrease KPSI. Prison guards in Uzbekistan ought to be trained to take care of prisoners with dignity.

What's however, more noteworthy is the simple fact that India's requirement of raw silk is quite a bit higher than its present production currently. Of course, if it's the case that you're using much thicker yarns, you're going to want to use a bigger needle and cast on fewer stitches. My second tip about how to purchase a Persian rug is, be certain the rug pleases you aesthetically.

Furthermore, the amount of diversity visas granted to all the distinct eligible countries isn't the exact same and it is contingent on the immigration rates of the nations. Trafficking for sexual exploitation is a completely different story. At that time there weren't any border checks between the countries of the previous empire.

Standard folk art is a typical wall decoration. All dishes of Uzbek cuisine are full of aroma and remarkable taste. Real Samarkand bread ought to be eatable within three decades.

On the majority of our tours Explore are going to be able to supply a private transfer at another price tag. An American and Canadian Bachelor takes 4 decades of which every calendar year 30 Credits have to be attained. When buying travel insurance it's extremely important to declare all pre-existing health conditions.

In China, the variety of credit cards in circulation is forecast to double by 2013. Women and men have separate quarters. To validate the payment you've got to go into a code received at that number.

Diphtheria tetanus and polio are combined in one vaccine in the United Kingdom. The BCG vaccine is provided once only, booster doses aren't advisable. Therefore, as soon as a tetanus booster is suggested for travellers, diphtheria vaccine is also given.

Even basic details on the criteria and procedures involved with significant financial decisions are hard to acquire. Among the purposes for the invention of the Agency was going to steer clear of the need to deal with different state organs when initiating and implementing a PPP undertaking, in addition to seek information on potential PPP projects from various sources. With the many available brands out there, it's vital to pinpoint which one works best for your specific needs.

Today the Indian silk business is already a significant player in the worldwide scenario and the growth prospects for the industry appear to be bullish. Whether you're planning your honeymoon and searching for romantic Uzbekistan packages for couples or simply need an adventurous Uzbekistan trip with buddies, you will discover proper choice at MakeMyTrip. A business program can likewise be referred to as a life program.

Additional American citizens affiliated with nongovernmental organizations which have been closed in Uzbekistan could be denied entry, in spite of a valid visa. In order to get treatment some proof of United Kingdom residence like a UK passport is going to be required. With all these airlines including Iran Air providing cheap flights to Tehran, the area is rapidly turning into a significant tourist in addition to a business destination.

You've come to be a number. Medical and repatriation insurance policy cover isn't mandatory for UK residents that are travelling on trips in the United Kingdom. Your passport has to be signed on the correct line. What You Should Do to Find Out About Uzbekistan Before You're Left Behind

Many nations engage in some kind of online censorship, while it is in the shape of banning an internet community or a full-blown censoring of popular websites like YouTube or Wikipedia. With many restrictive governments using imprisonment for a procedure to implement censorship, it is getting more important to have the ability to circumvent the censors. Uzbekistan is thinking about the introduction of a professional army in the long run.

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seeproduct · 3 years

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Celebration Fresh Spinach Day July 16, 2021

It 19s had a reputation as being an incredibly healthy plant for as long as Popeye has been popping open cans and giving Bluto a black eye. Spinach is probably one of the alternately most loved and reviled vegetables to ever reach our plates. Fresh Spinach Day is here to celebrate this dark leafy green and all the ways you can prepare it so it 19s wonderful!

History of Fresh Spinach Day

Like many of the most delicious vegetables in the world, spinach finds its origins in Ancient Persia, what is now Iran and a few of the neighboring countries. It was introduced to India by some unknown benefactor, and then from there into China where it was known as 1CPersian Vegetable 1D back in 647 AD. The story of spinach 19s travel around the world is one rivaled only by the Roman conquest of the area, finding its way in Sicily by way of the Saracens, and spread throughout the Mediterranean before finding its way to England and France in the 14th Century. From there, it quickly stretched to every area of the world, moving with the wave of Western Culture.

Spinach, especially fresh spinach, is incredibly nutritious while remaining remarkably low in calories. With only 23 calories for every 3.5oz it provides a substantial portion of our daily requirement for multiple vitamins, including Vitamins A, B, B6, E, C, and K, as well as being an incredible source of folate, potassium, and most notably iron. No wonder it made Popeye so strong, and no wonder Fresh Spinach Day was founded to celebrate this miraculous little plant.

How to celebrate Fresh Spinach Day

Well, the first thing you can do is find ways to incorporate spinach in every meal of your day. Baby spinach goes especially good in fruit smoothies, adding a powerful burst of nutrition to this delicious morning repast. It 19s also amazing served in a wilted spinach salad, or in any salad at all! One of our favorite ways to enjoy this leafy green is to have it added to our sandwiches, and you wouldn 19t believe the punch it adds! However you choose to experience it, make sure you get some fresh spinach into your diet on Fresh Spinach Day, your health will thank you!

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#FreshSpinachDay #FoodDrink #Vegetable

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flightstoazerbaijan-blog · 5 years

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Azerbaijan tour, Four Seasons Hotel and Nightlife

Azerbaijan is the most beautiful Caspian sea-bound nation. On the other hand, Azerbaijan borders Russia, Armenia, Iran and parts of Turkey. Baku is the capital of Azerbaijan. Baku is also a commercial centre. It is also very famous because of its nightlife and hotels. As such, it is one of the main tourist destinations.

Azerbaijan Tour Package

Many travel companies offer the best Azerbaijan tour packages. These tour packages provide great convenience and comfort. They also pay special attention to solo and family travellers. Tour packages include air tickets for flights, airlines and more. The Azerbaijan tour package from India has all the amenities of hotel booking, dining, breakfast and dinner, traveling to different destinations on air conditioner traveller bus. However, the prices of some tour packages vary. Facilities vary by price. Before you book a tour package, you must accept some terms and conditions.

Four Seasons Hotel Baku

This 5-star hotel boasts a restaurant and lounge, a bar and indoor swimming pool, overlooking the Caspian Sea and Baku Old Town District, with the help of the Palace of Kings. Rooms include air conditioning.

Each brightly spacious room at the Four Seasons Hotel Baku features a unique interior, flat-screen TV and city or sea view. The bathroom has marble planks and showers.

Four seasons Hotel Baku has Italian dishes are served at the Jefferano restaurant. Cosy drinks can be enjoyed at the Piazza Lounge or Bentley's Whiskey Bar.

The Farm Season's Top-Floor Jaleh Spa Center offers a range of beauty treatments including hammam, sauna and massage. Guests can take a dip in the swimming pool or workout at a fitness center.

The Park Boulevard Shopping Center Four Seasons Hotel is 2 minutes’ drive from Baku, Port Baku Shopping Center is 6 minutes away and the Azerbaijan Art Museum is 5 minutes away. Heather Aliev Airport is 30 kilometres from the hotel and a shuttle service is provided upon request.

Baku Night Life

One of the most fascinating nightlife of Baku. Most people who come to Azerbaijan are there to enjoy its nightlife. Above all, you can see the enchanting sights and the wonderful essence of nightlife in Baku. Baku is the largest city in Azerbaijan with the perfect mix of magnificent colours, fires and sparkling winds. Most importantly, many nightlife lovers visit Baku at night. In Baku, you can see the most beautiful sights and lights at night. You can look like a Baku Azerbaijan nightlife with a kaleidoscope. Nightlife includes a variety of cafes, bars, pubs, live performances on music, a variety of recipes, cooked and tasty food and more. As a result, everyone can enjoy. Landscapes, skyscrapers, on the other hand, make the city Baku Azerbaijan nightlife more vibrant and amazing.

Source: https://flights-to-azerbaijan-57.webself.net/blog/2019/11/17/azerbaijan-tour-four-seasons-hotel-and-nightlife

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topfygad · 5 years

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Traveling to Iran in 2019 – Everything you must know

Important – For some reason, the Iranian Government has decided to block my website, so if you want to browse Against the Compass while you are in Iran, you must use a VPN. For more information, read how to choose the right VPN for Iran and access all blocked sites

What used to be a country which everybody believed was filled with danger and nuclear weapon lovers is, today, becoming the destination with the most exponential tourism growth in the world.

From the most hospitable people to the oldest history, stunning architecture, the most desolate deserts, green mountains, islands and many other things, slowly, travelers are realizing that Iran is the ultimate destination.

However, since it has opened to tourism very recently, traveling in Iran is not that easy, as it presents several difficulties and peculiarities, ranging from strict Islamic rules to credit card issues and even the need to get special travel insurance.

But don’t worry.

After visiting this country twice for more than 2 months, on this blog, I have compiled loads of travel tips for traveling to Iran which will help you to plan your trip easily.

This guide contains practical information. For places to visit read my 1 to 4-week itinerary in Iran

Here you will find:

A few quick tips Visa Tours in Iran Accommodation in Iran Travel Insurance for Iran Access blocked sites in Iran Getting in Money in Iran Safety Solo female travel in Iran The people and culture Religion and Islamic Law in Iran Transportation Internet & SIM Card Food and alcohol Other curiosities Books for Iran More information

Important – Throughout the article, you will see that I mention 1stQuest quite a few times, an Iranian company that offers different services regarding visas, travel insurance, domestic bus & flight tickets, hotel booking, and even tourist packages. They are a great company which helped me sorting out my visa. Moreover, they are one of the very few companies which allows you to purchase any service with an international credit card. Just check them out and, if you decide to buy anything, remember that you can use my voucher code to get an exclusive 5% discount in all their services: ATC-QST – CLICK HERE TO KNOW MORE ABOUT 1STQUEST

A few quick tips for traveling in Iran

When to travel to Iran – Iran is a massive country with many climatic zones, which range from the dry regions of the Persian Gulf to the wetlands of the north-western provinces. Ideally, the northern mountains should be visited during late spring, summer and early autumn. On the other hand, the classic Persian cities of Esfahan, Yazd, Kashan, and Shiraz can get utterly hot in summer, so winter, spring, and autumn are the optimum months for visiting them.

Moreover, the southern provinces, which include Qeshm Island, Bandar Abbas, etc. should be avoided during the summer months, as temperatures may reach up to 50ºC and the air is extremely humid. Last, Tehran has extremely cold winters and overwhelmingly hot summers. Therefore, spring and autumn are the ideal months for traveling to Iran. You can also visit the Persian cities during the summer months, no problem, but just be prepared for the heavy heat!

What to actually do in Iran – From following the classic Persian historical trail to contemplating the magnificent Islamic architecture, trekking, visiting the Persian Gulf Islands, meeting Iranian nomads, making local friends or even making a pilgrimage trip to the city of Mashhad, Iran can be a destination for all types of travelers, both history and adventure lovers.

Consider getting off the beaten track – I traveled to Iran in 2015 and 2018 and, in only 3 years, things had changed significantly. The classic Persian cities of Yazd, Esfahan, Shiraz, and Kashan are filled with tour groups, overpriced restaurants and souvenir shops. Local interactions, which usually involve house invitations, are less frequent and rip-offs are common.

A lot of people who visit Iran also go to Caucasian countries. Read my ultimate guide for traveling to Georgia

However, if you just step slightly out of your comfort zone, experiences with the locals can be totally different. Therefore, I strongly recommend visiting other places near the cities, as well as discovering other provinces, such as Golestan, Kurdistan, or the cities of Tabriz and Mashhad.

Everybody comes back to Iran – I have been to Iran twice and this is the only country where I am planning a third visit, and I am afraid there will be a fourth one. This is not just me but many travelers I met on the road.

Everybody loves Iran because it is a huge country with so many places to visit and also, thanks to its people and safety, traveling through Iran is highly pleasant.

Read: 65 Things you need to know before traveling to Uzbekistan

Khalid Nabi in Golestan province, my favorite off the beaten track spot in Iran – Iranian travel

Visa for traveling to Iran

Visa on arrival (VOA) – Everybody, except for citizens of Canada, UK, US, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Colombia, India, Iraq, Jordan, Nepal, Pakistan, Somalia and Sri Lanka, can get a visa on arrival at any of Iran’s international airports.

The only real requirement is to have a valid host contact – During the process of getting your VOA, the authorities may contact your host, whether they are a hotel or a friend. If they can’t contact them, they may make you wait at the airport for a very long time.

Waiting time ranges from 2 to 6 hours – At the very least, you will have to wait for 2 hours at the airport. On my second visit, I had to wait for more than 5 hours, as I had a brand-new passport and didn’t have a return flight ticket.

Visa fee – Prices range from 40€ to 150€, depending on nationality. I hold a Spanish passport and paid 75€ and I believe that that is the price for the other European nationalities.

You can’t get a VOA if you enter overland – If you travel to Iran by land, you will need to arrange your visa in advance.

How to get your visa in advance – If you don’t want to wait at the airport, want to secure your visa or enter overland, you should get the visa in advance. For this, you need to get an authorization code from an authorized company, which you will use to easily collect your visa at the airport or embassy (if you enter by land).

I strongly recommend the guys from 1st Quest, a very reliable company that offers plenty of different services for traveling in Iran.

The visa authorization code only costs 27€ but remember that with my voucher code, you can get an additional 5% discount.

My voucher code: ATC-QST

CLICK HERE TO GET YOUR AUTHORIZATION CODE

NEW Summer 2018 – Iran doesn’t stamp passports anymore – An Iranian stamp on your passport can be an issue, especially if you are traveling to the USA. That’s why, since July 2018, they are giving your visa on a separate piece of paper.

Typically, they give you up to 30 days – A one-month visa is the standard number of days they give for traveling in Iran.

But you can easily extend your visa – You can extend it twice for 30 days. This means that you can be in Iran for up to 90 days. Extensions can be arranged in all provincial capitals.

Iran and Israel – For more details regarding the Israeli stamp, read: Avoid the Israeli stamp – FAQ

Citizens of the USA, UK, and Canada need to go on a tour – These 3 nationalities can’t travel to Iran independently, so they should contact a tour operator.

More information regarding visas – For further details, read my Iran visa guide

My Iran visa extension – Iran travel blog

Tours in Iran

Iran is a bit of a challenging destination for many travelers, so that’s why many people decide to go on a tour, which is totally understandable.

There are many tour companies, of course, but, once again, I recommend the guys from 1stQuest, for the simple reason that they offer different tours for both the very budget traveler and the mid-range traveler, at a very competitive price.

Honestly, you are not going to find cheaper tours.

These are the tours they offer:

Iran on a budget – A 9-day tour in 5 different cities, staying in 2-3-star hotel accommodation and moving around by VIP bus. Price: 369€.

Iran highlights – A 12-day tour through 6 different cities, with private transportation and staying in 5-star hotels. Price: 1,650€.

(They also offer customized tours)

CLICK HERE TO KNOW MORE ABOUT 1stQuest TOURS!

Moreover, they also offer what they call ”Experiences” to specific destinations in Iran:

For example:

Kaluts Desert (85€ per person)

Shiraz (39€ per person)

Qeshm Island (90€ per person)

Esfahan (29€ per person)

Meeting Iranian nomads (29€ per person)

And more…

CLICK HERE TO KNOW MORE ABOUT 1stQUEST EXPERIENCES

And remember that you can get an additional 5% discount by using my promotional code: ATC-QST – You can use it as many times as you want.

Epic shot in the desert of the Kaluts

Travel tips for accommodation in Iran

For booking hotels, you should know that most popular international sites don’t work – Because of the sanctions, websites like Booking.com don’t have hotels listed in Iran.

How to book a hotel in Iran?

Via a phone call

You just show up at the hotel and try your luck

Via a travel agency (if you go on a tour)

Via 1stQuest

Yes, a good alternative would be booking your hotels via 1stQuest because, from luxury hotels to backpacker hostels, they have hotels listed in all the main cities in Iran.

And remember that you can get a 5% discount in all hotels if you use my promotional code: ATC-QST

CLICK HERE TO SEE ALL THE AVAILABLE HOTELS IN IRAN

By the way, keep in mind that the Government of Iran tends to block this kind of travel websites, so 1stQuest may not work when you try to connect from Iran. If this is the case, there are 2 possible solutions:

Couchsurfing – If you are on a budget, you should know that Couchsurfing is very popular in Iran and a great way to get immersed in the local culture, as Iranians are particularly hospitable and you are likely to be treated like a royal guest. However, bear in mind that some hosts may be extremely intense and may want to be with you at all times.

The views from the hotel in Yazd at sunrise – Iran travel

How to access blocked sites in Iran

Fact: in Iran, many websites are censored, and that includes:

This means that you should get a VPN – If you wanna post Facebook updates or just check the international news, you must get a VPN. For this, I recommend you read how to find the right VPN for Iran.

The epic landscape of Golestan region

Insurance for traveling to Iran

Most regular insurance companies don’t cover travel in Iran – Because of the sanctions, popular insurance providers, such as World Nomads, will not cover you.

IATI Insurance is the one I recommend for traveling to Iran – It is one of the very few companies whose policy is valid for traveling in Iran. They have a wide range of different plans and good coverage at a very competitive price.

Moreover, the readers of Against the Compass can get an exclusive 5% discount (you will see the discount after calculating your quote).

BUY IT THROUGH MY LINK TO GET YOUR 5% DISCOUNT

If you don’t have travel insurance, you will have to buy it at the airport – If you don’t have a valid policy for traveling in Iran or, basically, you can’t prove it, they will make you buy one before getting your VOA. Prices range from 14€ to 34€, depending on the number of days but, you should know that the coverage is much more limited than IATI Insurance or any other company.

For more options, read How to find the right travel insurance for Iran

The classic picture of Esfahan – Traveling in Iran

How to get in Iran

How to travel to Iran by air

If you come by flight, Tehran would be the most obvious destination, as it has a large number of connections from Europe, especially Germany and Turkey.

Read: Things to do in Tehran in 2 days

Shiraz has also an international airport and there are daily, very cheap flights from Dubai.

Read: Things to do in Shiraz

How to travel to Iran by land

Iran shares a border with many countries but remember that, if overlanding, a visa is not available on arrival, so you will have to get it in advance.

Iran-Iraq border crossing

Iran Travel Guide – What you need to know about money

The official currency is the Iranian Rial – Which has an extremely low value: 1USD = 43,528IRR

The Iranian Rial fluctuation is massive – Make sure to check the current rate just before leaving for Iran because the value is so unstable.

Exchanging money in Iran – Exchange offices are available everywhere and €, USD and GBP are always accepted. Moreover, there is also the black market, which means that, in all cities, you will always find random people willing to buy your currency. It is fine to exchange with them but just make sure to count your money twice, as some of them may try to trick you.

Wait, Rials or Tomans? – Since their currency is extremely low, in order to simplify things, most places will tell you the prices in Tomans, which is the same value divided by 10. At the beginning, it is a bit confusing but you will quickly get used to it.

Foreign credit cards don’t work – Because of the sanctions, you can’t use your international credit card when you travel in Iran, so bring cash.

However, you can buy a local credit card – For people who don’t want to be carrying lots the cash, you can buy a local credit card and top it up. There are quite a few companies, for example Mah Card Iran Travel. (Note that I have never tried it but was recommended by a friend).

The way it works is that you sign up on their website, give your passport details and they will bring your credit card once you arrive at your hotel in Tehran. You will give them your cash and pay the 20€ service after receiving your card. I didn’t use it but I’ve been told it is a reliable company.

And you can pay by credit card absolutely everywhere – You will be surprised to know that local credit cards are accepted all across the country, including at street food stalls and grocery shops from rural areas.

Entrance fees – Most touristic sites, including mosques, gardens, and archaeological sites, charge between 100,000 and 150,000IR, which is 5 to 10 more times than what the locals pay.

Read: 70 Things you need to know before traveling to Pakistan

Guys like this one accept local credit cards quite often – Iran travel guide

Is it safe to travel to Iran?

Iran is safe – That’s it. It is a safe destination with no terrorism and a very low crime rate.

The FCO says – The UK Foreign advice says that you should avoid traveling to Balochistan and the area bordering Iraq. However, I think that this information is totally biased. You should be fine.

In Iran there is no Islamic State – On many occasions, my friends from back home told me: Be careful with ISIS in Iran! I love my friends but this is a very naive comment because, first of all, Iranians are Shia, hence there are no Iranian linked to ISIS. And second of all, ISIS never made it to Iran.

People in Iran are too friendly – Iran travel tips

Solo female travel in Iran

Iran is an Islamic dictatorship and, at the same time a day-by-day growing tourism destination, so it is not surprising at all that, every day, this Middle Eastern country is attracting more and more travelers, including many solo females.

Many women have come to me asking for my opinion towards traveling to Iran as a solo female. Well, despite the fact that I am a man and tend to get a very different experience than most women, I don’t know a single lady who hasn’t had a wonderful experience in Iran so, based on their opinions, I can certainly tell that Iran is, definitely, a safe destination for women.

If you want to know more details about it, I recently interviewed Eveline from Earth Wanderess, who shares her travel expertise about solo female travel in Iran.

Eveline in Esfahan

The people and culture

Iran is a highly educated society – Iran is the developing country with the largest number of highly educated people I’ve ever traveled to. Even in very rural, remote areas, such as Golestan, I met people who had Ph.D. degrees from Barcelona and Cambridge.

Iranians are not Arabs – People in Iran are not Arabs but Persians, which is a completely different ethnicity.

Nevertheless, it is ethnically diverse – From the Kurds in Iranian Kurdistan to the Turkmens of Golestan and the Arabs from the Persian Gulf shores, in Iran, there are several ethnic minorities.

Hospitality in Iran – Iranians are famous for their hospitality. Don’t be surprised if someone who you just met 5 minutes ago invites you to his house, a random dude who you never talked to pays for your meal and, basically, everybody treats you like a king. They love foreigners and are striving for the world to realize that they are a very peaceful society.

Do accept house invitations – You can’t say you have entirely traveled to Iran if you didn’t have a meal or stay at someone’s home. Just say yes. If you get slightly off the beaten track and having a meal at a stranger’s house is 100% guaranteed.

Wait, what is tarof? – If you are traveling in Iran for long enough and have experienced strong local interactions, the locals will tell you about something called tarof. Basically, tarof is when a local tries to pay for your meal (or anything else) just because it is in their cultural code but they don’t really want to. Say no and, if they insist more than 3 times, it means that it was a real invitation. However, if they back off, it means that it was a bluff, so this is called tarof.

Farsi is the official language – Farsi (or Persian), which has nothing to do with Arabic, is the country’s language. They also use the Arab alphabet.

Educated people speak English – In major cities, most educated people speak impeccable English and, in rural areas, they will speak the basic stuff.

Officially, the weekend is on Thursday and Friday – Iran follows the official Muslim calendar, so Friday is the official day off and, for most companies and the public sector, Thursday and Friday is the weekend.

Read: 75 Things you need to know before traveling to Kyrgyzstan

Me with Vali’s family in Mashhad – How to travel to Iran

Religion and Islamic law in Iran

Most Iranians are Shia – Iran is the country with the largest Shia population.

However, there are Sunni minorities – In Balochistan, Golestan and the Persian Gulf, there are significant Sunni communities.

Iran is an Islamic Republic – Prior to 1979, Iran was ruled by a Shah who was a puppet of the USA and was leading the country to poverty. This led to a massive revolution, the Shah was overthrown and the clerics came to power, founding the Islamic Republic of Iran.

It’s also a religious dictatorship – In Iran, freedom of speech, demonstration, and protest is extremely limited and several rules based on Sharia law apply to everybody, including tourists.

Dressing code for men – You can’t dress in short pans, even when it is 40ºC. Other than that, you will be fine.

Dressing code for women – Women need to wear a headscarf and can’t show either their shoulders nor their curves. This means that you must wear a long, loose dress or skirt over your pants.

And of course, alcohol is illegal – In Iran, alcohol is forbidden and only available on the black market. For more details, check the Food & Alcohol section.

Even in this situation, many Iranians are not religious at all – Across your journey, you will meet many Iranians from all ages who don’t care about religion at all, more than in any other Middle Eastern country. This is because, before the 1979 Revolution, Iran was quite secular.

Iranian women trying to enter and exit from the women wagon in Tehran – Can i travel to Iran

Travel tips for transportation in Iran

Buses are the way to go in Iran – They go absolutely everywhere and are the preferred choice for locals. There are two kinds of buses, the budget one and the VIP, which is around 70% more expensive.

Trust me, get the VIP bus – Seriously, the difference between VIP and non-VIP is so huge. VIP buses are extremely more comfortable, have AC and don’t smell. The cheap buses are horrible and, since they only cost a few USD, paying a 70% extra is not a big deal.

Where to buy your bus tickets – Before, it was kind of a pain in the ass to buy them, as local sites don’t accept foreign cards, so you had to ask your hotel (who charges a high commission) or go to the bus station, which is always far away from downtown. Things have changed and now, you can easily buy them through 1st Quest(the same visa guys).

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Train is also an option – Some cities have train stations. I personally took a train from Tehran to Gorgan and a 23-hour train from Mashhad to Bandar Abbas. It was pretty cool but not all cities have train stations plus they run less frequently than buses.

Plane is also good – For those who are short on time, there are a lot of domestic flights, connecting most cities in the country. Again, you can book your flight ticket through 1st Quest, as most local sites won’t accept foreign credit cards.

And you can also use this 5% discount when purchasing a flight ticket: ATC-QST

CLICK HERE TO CHECK THE PRICES OF YOUR FLIGHT ITINERARY

Get Snapp for taxis – Snapp is like the Iranian Uber and, as far as I know, it works in Tehran, Esfahan and, perhaps, in other big cities, as well. By default, it is cheaper than regular taxis plus you save all the negotiation hassle.

Metro – Tehran, Esfahan, Shiraz, and Mashhad have metro lines. They are cheap, fast and reliable!

Driving in Iran – You can self-drive in Iran, no problem, but just be aware that, like in all the Middle East, people drive like crazy.

Crossing the streets in Iran – For me, the worst thing about Iran is that nobody gives a s*** about pedestrians. You should know that, when you cross the street, even if you go over a pedestrian crossing, cars will never slow down but will just dodge you. It’s crazy. You should always cross sticking close to a local.

Train station somewhere in Iran – Iran travel experience

Internet & SIM Card

Wi-Fi sucks – A lot, practically everywhere.

But 3G is good – Wi-Fi sucked so much that, sometimes, I was using my 3G to watch movies.

Get an IranCell SIM Card – In my experience, the staff of IranCell shops speak good English. For just a couple of USD, you will get plenty of GB and calls. I suggest you check their website for the latest plans. In Tehran, there is an IranCell shop inside Imem Khomeni metro station.

Read: A travel guide to Lebanon

Jameh Mosque in Yazd – Iran travel information

Food and alcohol

What is Persian cuisine like – Seriously, I could write an entire post about food in Iran. It is quite varied and many provinces have their own local specialties. Usually, most meals will be accompanied by tonnes of rice and bread. The most popular appetizers have an eggplant base and main courses tend to be meat with gravy. Kebab is a fancy meal they eat outside.

So far, my favorite dishes are bademjan, an eggplant and tomato stew; ghormeh sabzi, a meat stew with plenty of spices and herbs; ash, a breakfast consisting of a vegetable soup with chickpeas, noodles and caramelized onions; and dizi, lamb (or chicken) smashed with tomatoes, potatoes and chickpeas in a clay pot.

Vegetarians will be OK – For breakfast, they will serve you either ash (the vegetable soup) or an omelet with tomato sauce, as well as cheese, watermelon, and nuts. For lunch and dinner, there are many eggplant-based vegetarian options, lentils, and rice.

Chai? – The tea culture is really strong and a sign of hospitality.

The coffee culture is growing! – One of the differences I noticed on my second trip to Iran is that there were coffee places, serving authentic coffee absolutely everywhere. It was, of course, pricey compared to any other drink but having breakfast over a good cup of coffee is a real must for me.

Alcohol is only available on the black market – It usually comes smuggled from Armenia or Iraqi Kurdistan.

But you are likely to drink – Once, I was hitchhiking in Golestan when a young couple from Tehran picked me up and offered me vodka shots. Another day, the owner of a café served me a real rum mojito. I also drank home-made liquor at someone’s house in Shiraz and was offered a beer in Qeshm Island. As I said, many Iranians are not very religious and, if you hang out with local people, eventually, you will be able to have some drinks.

Kashko: contains eggplants, caramelized onions, mint, walnut and yogurt, typical from Kerman province

Some curiosities you will see when traveling in Iran

Nose jobs – You will see that in most major cities, especially in Tehran and Esfahan, a lot of women wear a bandage on their nose. That is because they just came from surgery. Many Persian women have an arched nose and some of them have a bit of complex about it.

The clerics – Those Muslim priests that you see all over Iran are Shia clergy. Most of them wear a white hat, which means that they are normal people. However, those wearing a black one are, somehow, related to the prophet Mohammed. Within a period of 2 months, I spotted two of them.

Creepy mannequins – In all bazaars all across the country, clothing shops have extremely creepy mannequins. They tend to be dirty, miss one eye or they have no jaw. I don’t know if the shopkeepers realize how weird this is.

Drought in Iran – In Iran, lack of rain is a real problem and, across the country, many lakes and rivers, including the river that goes through Esfahan, are completely dry. This is one of the biggest concerns for most Iranians.

Read more interesting facts about Iran

A very strange mannequin in the bazaar of Esfahan

Best books for traveling to Iran

Here’s a selection of the best travel books for Iran:

Iran travel guide by Bradt – Bradt has always the most comprehensive guides to the most off-beat countries. I love Bradt because they give plenty of tips for the independent traveler, as well as loads of cultural insights.