A Trip to Iran: the Sites, the Events and the Extreme Hospitality of the Iranian People

Host Kathleen Stephenson speaks with Tami Dean and Hossein Rojhantalab about their recent trip to Iran. They spent seven months traveling around Hossein’s country of origin—Iran. They set out to introduce Tami to Hossein’s family and friends back home, and then cover as much territory as possible to get a wide look at a country that Americans know little about.

It took two years of preparation, in order for them to stay longer than the normal two or three week visa would allow. This period—from early Spring, to early Autumn of this year, marked the beginning of a turning point in relations between Iran and the US. They traveled from the Kurdish and Azerbaijan regions of northwestern Iran to the deep deserts of the East, from the Caspian Sea to the Persian Gulf, exploring 27 out of 31 provinces, and 13 out of 16 UNESCO Heritage sites.

Tami and Hossein will talk about the country of Iran, their adventures and the extreme hospitality of the Iranian people. Tami and Hossein said "we were constantly struck by the consistent spirit of taking care of the “stranger”. We were always met with a warm welcome, often invited to lunch or tea, and felt safe and respected wherever we went."

Tami Dean recommends the following books to learn about Iran: "Missing Soluch," by Mahmoud Dowlatabadi; "Savushun," by Simin Daneshvar; "Saved By Beauty," by Roger Housden; and "Shahnameh," by Abol Ghassein Ferdowsi.

For information on how to travel to Iran Tami recommends going to http://www.ricksteves.com/iran/iran_tours.htm to see a list of different tour options.