“You plan to travel to Iran? You must be crazy!”
With raised eyebrows and skeptical gazes falling on our faces, our decision to explore Iran emerges as a somewhat crazy and unconventional choice. We have had Iran on our wish list for a long time. We have only heard good things about the country from fellow travelers. But is it still safe to travel to the country?
Of course, it is! Iran is a safe country, and one of the most welcoming countries in the Middle East to travel to!
“Isn’t there a better country to travel to? Why are you traveling to Iran? Why now? Iran can wait!”
Family, friends, and even some fellow travelers question our motives for traveling to Iran. They seem genuinely concerned. We wonder, ‘Do they have a point? Am I making a mistake by traveling to Iran? Should we postpone our trip to Iran?’
No, you shouldn’t postpone your trip to Iran. Now is a great time to visit Iran.
We’re going to talk about some of the misconceptions about Iran and explore some of the reasons as to why you should travel to Iran, and why it’s a super safe country.
Misconception #1: Safety Issues: Iran is a violent country
In actual life, the opposite is true. Iran has some of the lowest crime rates in the world. Famously, the country has been known as a safe haven for travelers for a long time. With one of the lowest crime rates in the world, Iran has offered hundreds of millions of travelers a safe and worry-free journey throughout various centuries.
Both the travelers’ testimonials and the statistics are what prove Iran to be a safe destination. For example, based on numbers on the website nationmaster.com, Iran’s violent crime rate is 12 times lower than that of the US. (1)
Whether you’re strolling down alleyways in Kashan, exploring the bustling bazaars of Tehran or Tabriz, or visiting the architectural masterpiece that is Naqsh-e Jahan in Isfahan, you can feel confident that statistics are on your side. They reflect a country where the safety of both locals and visitors is a top priority, and aside from the usual safety measures recommended for international visitors, there aren’t any special things you need to worry about.
At the end of the day, if you’re still unsure about your safety in Iran, having a local tour guide who knows the ins and outs of the region can provide an additional layer of confidence and reassurance. A good local guide not only possesses extensive knowledge of the city but also is familiar with local customs and can help you navigate cultural nuances with ease, avoiding any unnecessary trouble.
Misconception #2: Cultural Rigidity: Many believe Iran is culturally rigid and closed off
It’s funny how a country with one of the richest cultures in the world is usually portrayed as a rather closed-off and extremely rigid nation. Iran boasts a rich history of arts, literature, and cultural diversity. It is the treasure trove of the arts, a mosaic of cultural influences.
Many Iranians actively engage in creative pursuits, fashion, and modern trends alongside traditional values. Given the right circumstances, the Iranian art scene is extremely vibrant. Poetry is very much alive in people’s everyday lives; the works of poets like Rumi and Hafez continue to resonate and inspire people across the country.
Next time you hear about Iran’s “authoritarian culture”, remember that beyond the mainstream media, there is a nation overflowing with cultural vibrancy that defies all stereotypes.
Misconception #3: Limited Access to Technology: Iran lacks modern technology and there’s no free internet access
While it is true that Iran currently has one of the most heavily restricted internet connections in the world, in reality, nearly every Iranian adult has internet access through the very popular means of VPN! Iranians are tech-savvy and have widespread access to the internet and different social media platforms. Just check any Iranian public figure on Instagram! You’ll see millions of followers, likes, and comments on any page.
However, using VPNs and other routes to accessing the internet is a bit tricky in Iran, since, well, VPNs are banned in the country, and installing them might take a bit of time. That’s why we highly recommend having a local tour guide from a reliable tour agency who knows their way around reliable methods to access the open world.
Misconception #4: Hostile Population: Iranians are generally hostile toward foreigners
We don’t blame you if you feel this way. The media has done an excellent job of depicting Iran, and the surrounding regions, as in a perpetual state of conflict, unrest, and even bombing. They may not explicitly state these things, but that’s often the impression they create about the Middle East, isn’t it? You’re not to blame; the mainstream media is.
In our view, it’s crucial to address the reality in a country like Iran. The nation has experienced its fair share of political tensions, especially in recent years. While political tensions can be found in various parts of the world, it’s important to remember that many Iranians are renowned for their hospitality and friendliness toward foreign visitors. As we delve deeper into the true Iran nature, you’ll discover that the warmth of its people often contradicts the negative images portrayed by the media.
Countless anecdotes exist of Iranians going out of their way to make foreign travelers feel welcome and at home. Simply visit TripAdvisor or watch the vlogs of travelers who have recently visited Iran. This unique aspect of Iranian culture stands as a testament to the nation’s desire to connect with people from other countries. While tensions may exist, it’s essential to remember that these are conflicts among governments, not reflective of the Iranian people themselves.
When considering your travel experience in Iran, having a local tour guide can be invaluable. These local guides can offer insights into Iran’s rich history and also serve as knowledgeable companions who can navigate the intricacies of Iranian life. They will bridge the gap between what you may have heard about Iran and the actual local culture, helping you engage more deeply with the welcoming Iranian community. Should any risky situations arise before your trip to Iran, contact your tour agency in Iran.
Misconception #5: Constant Political Unrest: Iran is constantly engulfed in political unrest and demonstrations
It’s crucial that we discuss Iran’s recent demonstrations and political unrest, as well as their implications for us as foreign travelers. Street protests and political events took center stage in Iran in 2022, particularly following the tragic death of Mahsa Amini. Most major cities in Iran, including Tehran, Isfahan, Yazd, and others, bore witness to progressive street demonstrations.
Undeniably, Iran has experienced its fair share of political events, especially in recent years. However, it’s absolutely crucial to understand their context and significance if we plan to travel to this country. These events represent a politically active population, driven by a passion for change, engaging in dialogue with their leaders on various social, economic, and cultural issues.
As foreign travelers, it’s essential to closely monitor these events to learn more about the country’s current state and gain insights into the complexities of Iranians’ day-to-day lives. Most media outlets often attempt to shape their own narratives based on their biases. Engaging in meaningful conversations with locals who are willing to share their perspectives will help you gain a clearer understanding of the situation.
Ultimately, while political discourse exists, the daily lives of most Iranians revolve around family, work, and various social activities. During times of political change, having a local tour guide who possesses the wisdom to navigate Iran’s political landscape, both in theory and practice, becomes essential. They can ensure that your journey to one of the world’s culturally rich countries remains safe and free from unnecessary troubles, allowing you to fully embrace the warmth and hospitality of the Iranian people.
Embrace the true essence of travel. Iran is waiting
The misconceptions we have talked about, from safety concerns to cultural rigidity and limited technology and internet access can be thoroughly debunked by booking that tour you have been thinking about. Take a closer look at the real Iran.
Iran is a country of diverse experiences, rich cultures, and hospitable encounters. So, when planning your trip to this culturally rich destination, rest assured that you’ll discover a nation of warmth, hospitality, and most importantly of all safety, eager to welcome you with open arms.
