Iran is one of the best kept secret in the Middle East and combines the best of Asia and Europe. It is a land mass three times the size of France, an incredibly diverse landscape of massive mountain ranges, deserts and forests of prehistoric ice age, a unique climate that allows for trekking and mountain biking 12 months of the year and one of the most hospitable and friendly population in the Middle East. It is the birthplace of one of the oldest civilizations in the world with a fascinating history and culture, yet modern country with modern aspirations.
Iran provides some of the best trekking, mountain biking and skiing in the world.
Myth and Reality
Our perception of today's Iran is still very much shaped by the ancient Greeks who were the old enemy Persia (Iran). For many years children were taught in school about the noble Greeks taking on the evil Persians at Marathon, while simultaneously inventing an Olympic event, not much has changed since then.
Today, the myth of the enemy, the wild country is fueled by the media, but in reality could not be more different. Visitors are amazed by the incredibly friendly and warm hospitality of the Iranian people towards them. And contrary to common perceptions of Iran has one of the most Western-oriented populations in the Middle East that are far more open to Western influences cultural trends than their Arab neighbors. In many cities, the Iranian people held a spontaneous candlelight vigil for fire victims of 9 / 11
What are the locals like?
Iranians are proud of their Persian identity and distinct culture. They speak their language Farsi (Persian) and they have their own calendar which is different from the rest of the Islamic world, and is based on the old Zoroastrian interpretation of the four seasons. "Norooz" or New Year is the first day of spring or vernal equinox. It is the largest and most important festival in the Iranian calendar. Iran has a very young population, more than two thirds of its 70 million population under the age of 30 years.
Iran is a highly developed country with an educated and cultured population. Iranian cinema has thrived in recent years with renowned directors such as Abbas Kiarostami and Mohsen Makhmalbaf, received international recognition, Tehran has also hosted an annual international film festival and book fair: the city is a center for contemporary art and photography, and many galleries .
Is it safe?
Iran is one of the safest countries to travel in. crime rate is extremely low compared to most western countries and anti-western sentiments prevalent in some Middle Eastern countries simply do not exist in Iran. For example, a growing number of Americans play in the Iranian league and are very popular with the fans. Even the most conservative religious person might encounter in Iran would never dream of harming anyone just because they happen to be Christian, or a westerner.
what it's like for women?
This is where Iran is often surprises. Although Iran is an Islamic country, Iranian women are very assertive and actively participate in all spheres of life. Activities include not only driving, but the race too. And every year more and more women are enrolling in universities than men. In Iran, women have the right to elect and be elected as members of parliament. They make a good deal of labor is not uncommon to see women doctors, engineers and lawyers in their everyday lives.
Women are not obliged to wear a veil or chador, as is known in Iran. It's enough to dress modestly and cover hair with a scarf. Men also need to observe modesty in what they wear.
Women are highly valued in Iranian society, and unlike some countries women are not subjected to constant unwanted attention when out and about.
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