Tehran offers the traveller a look at some impressive museums and the chance to stock up on some great bargains at the bazaar.
Iran probably isn't the first country that comes to mind when you're planning a vacation. The nation hasn't exactly rolled out the welcome mat at its door either. With its links to terrorist organizations and their dislike of western countries, especially the United States, it's not hard to see why many people avoid Iran altogether. However, if you look underneath all of the political issues, and do a little research on Iranian social customs, you'll find Iran (and especially the capital) to be a rewarding destination.
Tehran is the capital, and the largest urban centre in the country with 14 million residents. Getting around town can be difficult because of the traffic jams, but the city has a new metro system which will make travelling above ground unecessary.
The entrance to the city is the Azadi Tower, built in 1971 to commemmorate the 2,500th anniversary of the Persian Empire. There's a museum underneath the tower which has some very impressive artifacts. The National Jewels Museum will astound you with the extravagance within its walls. Here you'll see the Sea of Light diamond and the Globe of Jewels, made of 34 kilograms of gold and an incredible 51,366 precious stones.
If you have some extra time see the National Museum of Iran, where you can learn more about the glorious history of the Persian Empire. The large Golestan Palace was constructed by Qajar rulers and contains the Ivan-e Takht-e-Marmar (Marble Throne Verandah). Made of alabaster and in a mirrored audience hall, it was used for important ceremonies like the coronation of Reza Shah Pahlavi.
Things to buy
The place to be is the Tehran Bazaar. It's the largest of its kind in Iran and each alleyway has its own special merchandise. The entrance is at 15 Khordad Avenue, and you never know, you might purchase a Persian carpet or two. Remember, you're in the Middle East, so bargain hard!
Eating out
For a quick meal sample some dizi, a soup/stew conconction with lamb and chickpeas. There are numerous cafes around town where you can get kebabs and falafels. The Jaam-e-Jam food court has limited choices for food, but it's a great place to watch young, hip Tehranis eat drink and perfect their courtship skills. Iran has very strict rules about the consumption of alcohol, but parched Western visitors will be relieved to know they can drink at the Armenian Club. It's a Christian business so women need not wear their headscarves. Just remember it's for non-Muslims only.
Outside the city
If you begin walking north from Tajrish Square you'll find yourself on a trail that leads to the village of Darband near the Alborz Mountains. To get some fresh air head in this direction, and along the way stop for tea and kebabs in one of the many cafes the line the trail. Puffing on a qalyan (water pipe) will make your Iranian experience memorable. The Caspian Sea is within easy reach, and Qom, one of the holiest cities in the Middle East, is less than 200 kilometres south of Tehran.
Westerners will be surprised with Persian hospitality. Iranians are very curious about life in the West, because they receive so few tourists from outside Iran nowadays. If you ever visit this country, you can expect to get several invitations for dinner in private homes. Forget about all the stories you read in the newspapers, a different Iran awaits the adventurous traveller.
