Travel Ideas

Iran may be on the verge of complete transformation with the imminent threat of US/British military action in their efforts to start world war three but it’s still a great place to travel.

Iran has been so isolated from the western world that there’s still nothing to watch on TV and so the Iranians retain their characteristic calm and patience – dig it, they’ll wait until you’ve finished speaking, pause and then make a considered reply. The ancient art of listening.

In recent years there’s been a steady trickle of tourism in Iran, especially through the main cities with the most impressive ancient mosques. But again, no one ventures out to meet the carpet-weaving nomads in the desert, or into the Kurdish areas in the East.

Far from being reviled as an infidel or agent of the Great Satan (the US), Iranians will for the most part be absolutely delighted at your visit. They’re ravenous for information or news from the outside world, where things like music and dancing are allowed (both considered un-Islamic under the current religious regime).

If it’s too traditional and dull for you with the endless family meals on the ubiquitous carpets of Iranian homes, you can always delve into the heart of polluted, congested Tehran. There thrive circles of richer Iranians who never forsook their Western lifestyle, holding parties behind closed doors – as a real foreigner you’ll be welcomed with open arms, provided you can maintain discretion.

Check out the Iran Travel Guide for more.

Tom has been traveling non-stop since the age of 18 and co-founded Road Junky in 2004. Follow him @tomglaister

He’s the author of Hand to Mouth to India, an account of hitchhiking from England to India with no money and which will soon be rereleased by Road Junky Books.

Tales of a Road Junky featuring tales of breaking people out of jail in Delhi, selling fake Rolexes in Japan and other adventures in Israel and Brazil will be out later this year.

He also writes fiction for anyone who never really grew up and his latest novel is Bozo and the Storyteller – download the audio book for free or even buy a copy…

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