• Iran
• Information
• History
• When to go
• Weather
• Good to know
• Culture
• Costs
• Visa and Passport
• Food
• Nightlife
• Glossary
• Traveler Advice
• Forums

48HourVisit.com

Planning a short visit? Check out 48HourVisit.com, your online guide for short stays and weekend getaways.

Ad

The Glossary

chador - "a garment worn by many Iranian women to ensure that their appearance conforms with Islamic laws about modesty."

From Iran Glossary

With all the political and safety issues surrounding Iran, a visit to this Middle-Eastern country seems fool-hardy. For some intrepid travelers, these very obstructions add an appeal of sorts. Synonymous with the forbidden fruit in the Garden of Eden, Iran has enticed and bewitched travelers through the centuries. As one of the oldest cradles of civilization, Iran has piled layer upon layer of art, history and culture, offering countless surprises to those seeking to partake of its treasures. After the rumble that was the Islamic Revolution, dust has settled and Iran is ready to take its place among the must-see-before-you-die list.

International travelers are introduced to Iran by way of its capital, Tehran, a bustling metropolis of people moving in haste and of traffic and pollution testing the most resolute patience. Charming details, however, affirm that the traveler has indeed arrived in Iran: the small teahouses near the famous arches of Chubi Bridge, men smoking galyans (water pipes), sellers proffering hand-woven table cloths, the rich aroma of spice, the convoluted alleyways of the 16th century grand bazaar.

Architecture figures prominently in Iran. Isfahan, the former capital, takes pride with its stunning architecture of the Shah Mosque and the Royal Palace among the souks and tree-line boulevards. At the Imam Square, one of the largest plazas in the world, twin minaret edifice stands like armored sentinel. Sheik Lotfollah Mosque glitters with the kaleidoscopic mosaic tiles. But nothing compares to Persepolis, a sprawling network of ruins that echoes the grandeur of a former city-like complex, located near Shiraz.

Those who adore extreme sports can find action in the rugged mountainous rims, sprawling deserts, small, discontinuous plains along Iran's coasts. The peak of the Mount Damavand and Zagros can be a favorable haven of mountaineer who just loves some pure fun and wild adventure. The uninhabited deserts of Dasht-e Lut and Dasht-e Kavir invite the most rugged of travelers.

User blogs:

Travel and Inspire

“Our battered suitcases were piled on the sidewalk again; we had longer ways to go. But no matter, the road is life.”  - Jack Kerouac     ... Read full Blog post

Bohol and Cebu.. sweeter the second time

As soon as I found out that my twin brother Dennis is coming for a vacation, I was very excited and so happy that after 15 years of being away from him, I’d be spending time with one of the most important person of my life. The one I grew up with… and not only that, I get to meet the love of his life, Steph. Eventhough Cebu and Bohol will bring me back memories of the good times and bad ... Read full Blog post

Baguio: City of Pines

This is SM City Baguio. The biggest mall in the city. I never imagine to live here in Baguio for a long time. But becuase of studies, I prefer to take my college course here than in Manila. After a two year long of staying in here I am learning to appreciate what Baguio has to offer to its tourists and locals. But seeing its changes from its foundation last 1909, Baguio grew a lot faster ... Read full Blog post