Daily life in colourful Iran, Part 2
As Iran begins to open its doors to tourism, Hong Kong Free Press revisits the country’s markets, villages and landmarks.
See also: Part 1 – The incredible architecture of Iran.
A park in Tehran.
iran
The incredible architecture of Iran, Part 1
Hong Kong Free Press visits Iran’s stunning mosques, bazaars and palaces.
See also: Daily life in colourful Iran, Part 2.
Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, Esfahan
White Rose Reader: Close Up on Iran, 25.11.13
Photography for White Rose Reader
“Iran’s terrifying reputation and wildly inaccurate media stereotypes mask what must be one of the friendliest and safest hidden gems in all of Asia. From magnificent mosques to bustling bazaars, the Islamic Republic is home to a sophisticated culture and rich history, all showcased with a famously heartfelt level of hospitality.”
The medieval Takyeh Amir Chakhmagh Mosque is a popular gathering point in warm evenings in Yazd.
Time Out Magazine: Iran – Glorious Esfahan, 26.10.11
Travel piece for Time Out Magazine.
Click to enlarge
As your flight descends into the dark heart of the Evil Axis, rumours of 50c heat, a presumed threat of kidnap and the danger of a terrorist free-for-all weigh heavily upon the mind. However, Iran’s terrifying reputation and wildly inaccurate stereotypes mask what must be one of the friendliest and safest hidden gems in all of Asia. From magnificent mosques to bustling bazaars, the Islamic Republic is home to a sophisticated culture and rich history, all showcased with a famously heartfelt level of hospitality. And as for the intense desert heat – long-suffering Hong Kongers may actually find the lack of humidity strangely tolerable.
The lightly beaten tourist trail begins in the ‘City of Love’, Shiraz. No longer a wine producer, this small city is centred around the elaborate Vakil Bazaar. The colourful marketplace comes to life at night and shoppers exploring the endless maze will find locals offering to pay for things (or even dinner!) as shopkeepers chase them down dark alleys merely to return their change.