Why should we travel to Iran?

Pars Today - Iran, the land of ancient civilization and astounding nature, is among top attractions for tourists.

Iran, due to not only its glorious history and rich culture, but also highly varied geography and hospitality of people, is a unique experience for every traveler and tourist. Here, Pars Today has addressed the reasons for traveling to Iran.

1. Unique history and civilization

Iran is the cradle of one the oldest civilizations in the world. From the 7000-year old Shush (Susa) to Takht-e Jamshid (Persepolis) (550 BC) which symbolizes the Achaemenid splendor, every corner of this land narrates a historical account. Iran has 28 registered works in UNESCO. Among these works mention can be made of Naqsh-e Jahan Square in Isfahan, Soltanieh Dome (near Zanjan), and Iranian gardens, like Eram Garden in Shiraz and historical cities such as Yazd (most ancient brick city in the world) and Shiraz (city of poetry and love).

2. Four-season and fascinating nature

Iran enjoys various climates, including snow-capped mountains of Alborz and Zagros, hot deserts of Lut (UNESCO World Heritage) and Hirkani forests (dating back to 50 million years). This variety of climates satisfies every taste. Salt Lake of Chabahar, high waterfalls of Shushtar, Anzali international lagoon and the rainbow Island of Hormoz are among the natural wonders in Iran. Within one day you can ski on Damavand slopes and then go to Qeshm to visit date palms in this beautiful island.

3. Genuine culture and art

Arts like calligraphy, miniature, carpet-weaving, Islamic architecture (turquoise domes and mirror-works of mosques) build up part of the Iranian identity. Farsi literature, with globally renowned poets like Hafez and Sa'adi, has attracted world people. Ancient feasts like Nowruz (registered in UNESCO) and local ceremonies and customs such as the music of Lor ethnicity create a unique cultural experience.

4. Modern and dynamic cities

Tehran, the capital of Iran, with credited museums (such as National Museum of Iran), Milad Tower and international restaurants is the symbol of modern life. The cities of Isfahan- also known as Nesf-e Jahan (literally meaning half of the world)- Shiraz, Tabriz, Ahvaz, Kerman, Kashan, and Mashhad offer you both clam and excitement through a blend of traditional architecture and modern facilities.

5. Unforgettable tastes

Iranian foods and pastries with unmatched fragrance and taste, including Chelow Kebab, a broad variety of stews, broths, baqlava (special pastry from Yazd) and Zulbia (Zalabia, Jilapi or Jalebi) and Bamieh (Tulumba) are palatable to every visitor and tourist. Drinking tea in traditional homes of Yazd or having breakfast in the forests of the north of the country are also very interesting.

6. High security and appropriate cost

In spite of false information disseminated by the Western media, Iran is one of the most secure countries in West Asia and even the world for tourists. Moreover, the costs of accommodation, food and transportation are much cheaper than many other tourist destinations.

7. Good temperament and unique hospitality of Iranians

Hospitality is part and parcel of the Iranian culture and has its roots in the history of this nation. Iranians, thanks to religious teachings and ancient traditions, always consider guests as "God's friends" and pay high respect to them. They deem it as a sacred thing to respect guests. This is evident in their minutest behaviors such as insisting on guests to be entertained with tea and pastries upon their arrival and inviting them to homes for a meal together. In rural regions, people even share others in their happiness with distributing fresh bread and salt to them. Many tourists speak of taxi-drivers who have refused to get their fee, or vendors in local markets who give tourists presents as memory. Travelers and tourists experience a warm, safe and unforgettable trip to Iran. Iranians believe that entertaining a guest is a blessing which brings hearts together.

Final word

Iran is a blend of historical, religious, natural and cultural attractions. Thus, traveling to this country means to discover an unknown world. Iran teaches the travelers that beauties are often hidden behind propaganda and prejudgments. So, take your back-sack and get ready for a marvelous journey to the heart of the great and unique Iranian civilization.

RM/MG