- Is Iran safe?
One of the major worries that people have when thinking about travelling to Iran. The recent rise of groups such as ISIS have heightened those fears. However, Iran represents one of the safest places in the Middle East to travel to. This has been reflected in governments such as the Australian government reducing their travel warnings to Iran. Some areas of the country, particularly close to border areas with Afghanistan and Iraq, the Baluchistan province are seen as areas of higher risk by Western government and are generally not recommended as a travelling destination. Those who travel to Iran tend to report that they feel most unsafe as a pedestrian, as particular norms that are followed in many western countries such as cars stopping automatically at pedestrian crossings are not generally adhered too in Iran.
- Is Iran safe for women to visit Iran?
All women while in Iran are required to follow the dress codes prescribed form women in Iran. This means wearing a headscarf and not allowing the skins on your arm or legs to be shown while in public. There is also gender segregation of public transport. Following these laws will mean women will generally have no issues when it comes to safety. Iranians are renowned for their hospitality and as a visitor you will be invited to many people’s houses for dinner or lunch. This isn’t as forward as it may seem in other countries and is generally a sign of respect to the guest. There is, however, no obligation to accept such offers.
- Can I travel to independently to Iran? Do I need a guide to travel Iran?
Most people are able to travel independently within Iran, without any guide or official guidance whatsoever. US and Canadian citizens, however, need to have their itinerary and tour group approved beforehand, which will require an officially sanctioned guide. However, as part of the itinerary it is possibly to include free days, which if approved, will allow for free travel. Many people, however, prefer to go on guided tours, as much of the population, including those who work in tourism do not have proficiency in English, making some experiences more difficult.
- Is there internet access in Iran?
Almost all the major hotels provide their guests with Internet facilities and the others are being equipped for the same purpose. Also, many Internet cafes are already opened.
If you have a mobile phone from other countries, it will not work in Iran unless your phone company has made a contract with Iranian Telecommunication Company (ITC).
- Can I use a credit card in Iran?
Due to the imposition of financial sanctions international credit cards are not currently accepted in Iran. It is advised for travelers to bring cash with them. The lifting of some sanctions, however, should see some progress on this front with Japan Credit Bureau as well as China Union Pay cards expected to be accepted by late 2016 and negotiations are ongoing between Iranian authorities and MasterCard and Visa about their cards being accepted in the near future.
- Can I bring medication? What procedure do I need to follow?
You may bring prescription and over-the-counter medications to Iran, but we recommend you carry these in their original bottles and/or packaging.
- Do I need a visa for Iran? What is the procedure?
Whether you need a visa depends on where you are from and where you are travelling to. Citizens of around 60 countries do not need a visa to enter Iran for travelling purposes for various amounts of times. Most other countries citizens can gain a visa on arrival from most of the major airports in Iran, although for peace of mind they can also apply for visas beforehand. Visas on arrival for most countries only allow for a stay of 15 days. For US and Canadian citizens due to lack of any consular services in Iran, must have prior approval of an itinerary and tour operator before applying for a visa from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Most tour companies will take care of this for you. No citizens of Israel are permitted to travel to Iran. People who have an Israeli stamp in their passport will also be denied entry. All citizens except for Israeli can travel to Kish Island, a popular tourist island, without a visa for up to two weeks. Since visa requirements are subject to fairly constant change, it is best for everyone to contact Iranian consular or embassies in their own country to find out what is required before entry. Most visas will be approved in two to three weeks. Most people find it relatively easy if correct information is given. However, it is best to allow for plenty of time before applying.
- What should I know about the currency & exchange?
The official currency is called Iranian Rials (IRR). You will often hear the term ‘Tomans’ used on the street, which is simply equal to 10 Rials. As a general rule of thumb, written prices are given in Rials and in conversation, Tomans. Due to U.S. led sanctions foreign banks are restricted from engaging directly in Iran; so forget Cirrus, Maesto, Visa, MasterCard, PayPal, and travelers cheques because these are almost impossible to find without local connection.
So ensure you bring enough cash while travelling in Iran. While ATM’s are generally only for Iranian customers, some banks and hotels may be able to help you transfer foreign currency electronically, but don’t be afraid to ask tourist agencies for assistance as they can be very resourceful.
US dollars and Euros are the most useful and widely-accepted currencies.
- What is the weather like?
Iran has a hot, dry climate characterized by long, hot, dry summers and short, cool winters. January is the coldest month and August is the hottest. A&K’s programs travel during the spring and fall when temperatures are moderate. Average temperatures range between the low 50s°F at night to the upper 80s°F during the day.
- What is the dress code in Iran?
Dress Code for Men in Iran:
Shorts, T-shirts and ties are not worn in public. In private quite different though. It really depends on the destination and purpose of your trip. When dealing with government agencies, schools, embassies, and the like, obeying the rules is highly recommended.
- Long trousers (no shorts!)
- Avoid extreme short sleeve
Dress Code for Women in Iran Head and hair must be covered. Wear long and loose pants and shirts (avoid leggings). There are some minimum requirements for female travelers’ dress-code in public places.
Head: Although hair must be covered. You can also use hats /caps together with a scarf.
Color: There is no limitation to colors, we recommend light colors for summer.
Body: Body and arms should be covered by long and loose fitting clothes, including an overcoat or for summer a long shirt.
Legs & feet: Legs should be covered down to ankles. Sandals are no problem.
- What about Iranian food?
The culinary variety is very high in Iran. You’ll find different kind of Kebabs, stews, rice , deserts and many other food types. There are various restaurants and you will find a lot of spices and herbs.
The meat served in the restaurants is mostly chicken, fish & lamb but not pork, dog and other kinds. There are also vegetarian restaurants but it is best to let your tour guide know before the trip.
- Can I drink alcohol in Iran?
Drinking alcohol is against the law in Iran and no shops are permitted to sell it. Anyone caught in possession of alcohol faces arrest and in the case of a tourist face deportation. People in Iran tend to drink tea, SHARBAT (a cool, sweet drink known as the world’s first soft drink) or DOOGH (a savory yogurt drink). Alcohol free beer is also available. Pork is not available. When it comes to meat most Iranians tend to eat chicken, beef or lamb, all of which are widely available.
