Travelling to Iran for the first time can be a combination of excitement and fear (because you just can’t shake those old headlines or news videos). But those who have visited can attest to the fact that Iran usually ranks as one of the safest places they have visited. You can have a look at some of our tourist comments on the Review page. However, there are few things to keep in mind before you travel to Iran-
Travelling during Ramadan- Iran is a Muslim country. During the month of Ramadan, Muslims fast during the day, say several prayers and then break their fast with a special evening meal. The dates for Ramadan are based on the Islamic lunar calendar and depends on the traditional sighting of the crescent moon by naked eyes. During the day, every restaurant remains closed but in some places, you can find some cold sandwiches or home-cooked food. You are not allowed to eat or drink anything in public but in some big cities, you will see some who do not pay attention to this custom (not eating in Public during Ramadan).
How to dress (Female)- You need to have your hair and body covered every time you are outside in the public, even in the common areas of the hotel. You have to cover your hair, arms and legs, but your feet can be bare. Wearing a hijab or headscarf is mandatory whenever you are in public. Your sleeves must reach past your elbows. Tight leggings are okay too. You can wear makeup as much as you like. When it is hot, choose airy fabrics like linen and cotton and bright colours. There were days when it was challenging to wear all these clothes when it was really hot outside. Try not to wear tight clothes. You can wear any colour; it does not necessarily have to be black.
How to dress (Men)- For men, short sleeve shirts are okay. Pants must be long (no shorts in public) and can be of any colour.
Obtain your Visa in advance- While citizens of some countries, like the US or the UK, need to obtain visas in advance, others are part of the ‘visa on arrival’ program and can get one at the airport in major cities but it is better to get 30-day Visa to Iran from Iranian Embassy in your home country.
Bring Cash- Since credit cards are not accepted, you will need to bring along plenty of cash.
Understand the price- The rial-toman issue is always a common cause of confusion and frustration among tourists. We have The official currency Rial and we call it Toman. Be aware that every 10000 Toman is equal to 100000 Rial. So it means that if you want to calculate you should omit one zero from Rial written on Currency to understand the Toman Amount. Some shops or places also write their fees in Toman.
Understand Tarof- Iranian culture tells that you must refuse to receive payment the first time. This can be puzzling for tourists since most of the world is accustomed to paying for goods or services. If the taxi driver, waiter or shopkeeper says ghâbel nadâre (it is on us), make no mistake – it’s just part of the culture and you still have to pay. But sometimes, it is real. One of my tourists went shopping and salesman didn’t accept any money.
Overnight in Traditional Houses- There are houses of 18th and 19th-century buildings recently restored. There are even some that have been carefully converted to hotels where you can stay. You can find the best of them in Kashan, Yazd, Isfahan, Shiraz and other historical cities.