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5 Tips For Americans On Visiting Iran

Mohammadali F.
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Flickr
A couple sits on a hillside between Mt. Tochal and the Iranian capital of Tehran.

Iran has long been on KPLU travel expert Matthew Brumley's list of places to visit. He consulted tour guide Martin Klimenta of MIR Corporation about the value of traveling to the enormous Middle Eastern nation. 

Klimenta shared these five thoughts on Iran:

1. Expect A Lot Of Food And Culture

"[Iran is] full of color, it's full of smells, it's full of good food, it's full of good music, it's full of incredible, ancient Persian culture. The people are super-friendly. They approach Americans, and are excited to see Americans. Every times we walk in the bazaars ... we are surrounded by people who are excited, and want to talk to us."

2. It's Accessible By Major Airlines

"You can fly direct from Paris, from London, from Amsterdam, and a number of European cities. Obtaining a visa for Americans ... takes a couple weeks and requires some paperwork, but it's fairly easy to obtain an Iranian visa."

3. Visit Persepolis

Credit Johannes Zielcke / Flickr
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Flickr
The ancient city of Persepolis is a must-see, says tour guide Martin Klimenta.

"As you approach Persepolis from a distance, you see a huge structure in front of you, which is the Lion's Gate, or the Gate of Nations. Behind that, you see a series of beautiful columns and remnants of old palaces, with a fabulous, hilly, red-rock backdrop. [The city has] been buried under the sand for centuries, and it's been unveiled relatively recently. It's in fabulous shape."

4. The Rules Are Different Here

"For a male traveler, it's like flying into Boston. For female travelers, the story is a little different because of the religious rules. Women are required to have their heads covered at all times [in public places]. At the moment the plane touches down at Tehran International Airport, they make sure all female travelers are 'properly' dressed."

5. Don't Go For The Night Life

"Night life doesn't really happen in Iran. Beer does not happen in Iran, since alcoholic beverages are not allowed. They are not available. [But] Iran is ready [for visitors], it has great sites, friendly people, and it's up and going."

Editor's Note: This week, NPR News is airing a special series on Iran with "Morning Edition" host Steve Inskeep. 

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Going Places is KPLU's travel segment, covering everything about getting from Point A to Point B. Each week, travel expert and Earthbound Expeditions founder Matthew Brumley takes listeners through great destinations and insider travel tips.

Ed Ronco is a former KNKX producer and reporter and hosted All Things Considered for seven years.