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IT IS SAFE TO VISIT IRAN?

One of the major worries that people have when thinking about travelling to

Iran. The recent rise of groups such as ISIS have heightened those fears.

However, Iran represents one of the safest places in the Middle East to travel

to. There has been no terrorist attacks in Iran in the last eight years, nor has

there been any significant political unrest that has posed any threat to

foreigners. This has been reflected in governments such as the Australian

government reducing their travel warnings to Iran. Some areas of the country,

particularly close to border areas with Afghanistan and Iraq, the Baluchistan

province are seen as areas of higher risk by Western government and are

generally not recommended as a travelling destination. Those who travel to

Iran tend to report that they feel most unsafe as a pedestrian, as particular

norms that are followed in many western countries such as cars stopping

automatically at pedestrian crossings are not generally adhered too in Iran.

DO I NEED A VISA FOR IRAN? AND HOW HARD IS TO GET A VISA?Whether you need a visa depends on where you are from and where you are travelling to.

Citizens of around 60 countries do not need a visa to enter Iran for travelling purposes for

various amounts of times. Most other countries citizens can gain a visa on arrival from most of

the major airports in Iran, although for peace of mind they can also apply for visas beforehand.

Visas on arrival for most countries only allow for a stay of 15 days. For US and Canadian

citizens due to lack of any consular services in Iran, must have prior approval of an itinerary

and tour operator before applying for a visa from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Most tour

companies will take care of this for you. No citizens of Israel are permitted to travel to Iran.

People who have an Israeli stamp in their passport will also be denied entry. All citizens except

for Israeli can travel to Kish Island, a popular tourist island, without a visa for up to two weeks.

Since visa requirements are subject to fairly constant change, it is best for everyone to contact

Iranian consular or embassies in their own country to find out what is required before entry.

Most visas will be approved in two to three weeks. Most people find it relatively easy if correct

information is given. However, it is best to allow for plenty of time before applying.

IS IT SAFE FOR WOMEN TO VISIT IRAN?

All women while in Iran are required to follow the dress codes prescribed form women in Iran. This

means wearing a headscarf and not allowing the skins on your arm or legs to be shown while in

public. There is also gender segregation of public transport. Following these laws will mean women

will generally have no issues when it comes to safety. Iranians are renowned for their hospitality and

as a visitor you will be invited to many people’s houses for dinner or lunch. This isn’t as forward as it

may seem in other countries and is generally a sign of respect to the guest. There is, however, no

obligation to accept such offers.

IS IT SAFE FOR US CITIZENS TO VISIT IRAN?

US citizens will have to have their itinerary and tour guide approved beforehand. Sticking to the

itinerary is part of the conditions of visa approval, so sticking to the itinerary and the instructions of

the tour guide will ensure that there are no problems. The Iranian government is highly sensitive for

historical and political reasons of any foreign involvement in the political process, in particular this

applies to the United States. Avoiding political demonstrations and making any public political

statements is another way to avoid any trouble.

Otherwise, Iranians will be keen to demonstrate their hospitality to US citizens and will offer to host

them for lunch or dinner. Hostility towards particular actions of the US government, doesn’t stop the

people of Iran having nothing but the warmest feelings for Americans themselves

CAN I TRAVEL INDEPENDENTLY? DO I NEED A GUIDE?

Most people are able to travel independently within Iran, without any guide or official guidance whatsoever. US and Canadian citizens, however, need to have their itinerary and tour group approved beforehand, which will require an officially sanctioned guide. However, as part of the itinerary it is possibly to include free days, which if approved, will allow for free travel.

Many people, however, prefer to go on guided tours, as much of the population, including those who work in tourism do not have proficiency in English, making some experiences more difficult.

IRAN POLITICS AND RELIGION –WHAT IF I DO NOT AGREE?

It is not a requirement to agree with any particular political

decision or religious ideology to visit Iran. While in Iran, you

will hear a lot of different views from different people about

politics and religion, and inevitable all travellers will have

their own thoughts. However, the Iranian government is very

sensitive to any foreign involvement in internal political

affairs, so any political activity inside Iran, particularly

directed against the Iranian government, could lead to arrest.

At least while in Iran, it is best to keep your views private on

political and religious matters.

CAN I DRINK ALCOHOL AND EAT PORK IN IRAN?

Drinking alcohol is against the law in Iran and no shops

are permitted to sell it. Anyone caught in possession of

alcohol faces arrest and in the case of a tourist face

deportation. People in Iran tend to drink tea, Sharbat (a

cool, sweet drink known as the world’s first soft drink) or

doogh (a savoury yogurt drink). Alcohol free beer is also

available. Pork is not available. When it comes to meat

most Iranians tend to eat chicken, beef or lamb, all of

which are widely available.

IS IT PERMITTED TO TAKE PHOTOS OF HISTORICAL SITES AND PEOPLE?

Rules on photography depends on the place. Many

mosques will allow photography inside and outside.

Some museums will not allow photography inside but will

outside. Generally, if it is not permitted, a sign will

indicate. Restrictions are placed on photography of

government and military buildings. For people, when

taking photos of specific people, it is always better to ask

for permission. Often this will led to a positive response,

many Iranians like to pose for photos.

CAN I BUY SOUVENIRS LIKE PERSIAN RUGS?

Yes, it is possible to buy Persian rugs or other souvenirs. Iran is

known for having the best rugs and carpets in the world. However,

caution is advised before spending lots of money to ensure you

are getting the genuine item rather than a fake. When buying

items in places like the Bazaar, bargaining for price is considered

normal.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT IRAN?

It depends on what you want to do! In most places in Iran summer is hot and winter is cold, with

snow in some places. During the month of Ramadan it can be difficult for travellers as many food

stores are close during the day. At times around the Iranian New Year which occurs on March 21,

more people inside Iran go on holiday, so it can be more difficult to secure accommodation.

HOW MUCH WILL IT COST?

It depends on what you want to do. In general, though, in comparison to most countries, travelling to

Iran will be less expensive, with accommodation, food, internal travel being affordable for most

travellers. Most entrance fees for sites will be less than one US dollar and a meal will cost around 5 to

10 US dollars at a restaurant

ARE THERE ANY CULTURAL NORMS?

There are many cultural norms in Iran, one of the strangest to foreigners, is the concept of Ta’arof,

which governs rules of social interaction and hospitality. It is form of exaggerated politeness. For

instance, restaurant owners or taxi drivers as a sign of respect will often say there is no charge, and in

return you will show your respect by insisting on paying until they accept. This also applies to

hospitality at the home, where hosts are obligated to offer their guests as much as they can and

guests are supposed to reject, sometimes several times, before accepting.

WHAT’S BUDGET ACCOMMODATION LIKE?

There aren’t many hostels in Iran, which many associate with budget travel. However, hotels in Iran

tend to be considerably cheaper than in many other countries. So, you may find 4 star hotels priced in

what would be considered budget range in other countries. With an expected increase in tourism to

Iran, it is expected that a wider range of accommodation options will be available in the near future.

IS IT POLLUTED?

Tehran, the capital of Iran, has underwent a massive population

increase over the past few decades. One of the side effects is air

pollution, which can affect Tehran badly at times. Pollution

control programmes, as well as more energy efficient cars and

public transportation have been implemented, which is believed

will have an impact into the future. Most other cities do not

have major problems with pollution.

HOW DO I GET ABOUT?

It depends on your preference. Travel tours will

provide transport while you are on a tour. Major

cities have public transportation, such as buses

and in Tehran, a metro. Taxis are also very

affordable. It is also possible to hire cars for

travelling. Between cities buses are regular and

affordable. There are also flights between cities, as

well

ARE THE LOCALS FRIENDLY?

Just about everyone who travels to Iran comments on how friendly the people are. Hospitality will be extended to all visitors in just about every part of

the country and on a regular basis. Many will start conversations with you about where you are from, why you are in Iran, your job etc.

What books should I read about Iran?

Shahnameh (The Book of Kings) by Abolqasem Ferdowsi

For those interested in ancient history, this book is a must read. A mixture of myth and truth it traces the history of the Persian empire until the Arab

invasion of the 7th century

Iran Between Two Revolutions by Ervand Abrahamian

This provides a comprehensive view of Iranian modern history between 1905 till 1979. It looks at the changing nature of society and politics in this time.

All the Shah's Men: An American Coup and the Roots of Middle Eastern Terror by Stephen Kinzer

A historical overview of the coup in 1953 against elected leader Mohammed Mossadeqh with the support of the CIA and how that laid the basis for

hostility between Iran and the US

The Poems of Hafiz

Poetry has played a larger role in Iranian life than literature and there is a great of love for the classics of Persian poetry. Hafiz is amongst the most

popular, with his tomb visited by millions in Shiraz.

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