Forget about what you have heard about Iran on the media. Spend some time and seek the opinion of people who have actually visited Iran.
During the past few years, the global news about Iran was strongly affected by the political challenges between Iran and the West, causing a dark and negative attitude towards our country. Instead of historic background, rich culture, climate diversity, hospitable and kind people, magnificent scenery and unique architectural monuments, all you hear about Iran in the media is war, terrorism, nuclear power and sanctions.
Many tourists who are interested in visiting Iran have some concerns regarding security. Based on the picture of Iran that the media depicts you should be worried. However, we assure you that this image is not real and our Iran is one of the safest countries in the world.
Iran is totally free from the crisis that has hit the Middle East and North Africa from Turkey to Egypt. In Iran you will see No war, No killing, No bombs, No kidnapping and No riots.
Iranians are very hospitable towards foreign nationalities, especially now that both people and the government believe that developing tourism industry will not only help improve the economy of the country, but will also change the global attitude towards Iran
We are sure that after visiting our country, you will all agree with us.
Iran will be full of surprises for you.
You may bring prescription and over-the-counter medications to Iran, but we recommend you carry these in their original bottles and/or packaging.
On the whole, food in Iran is hygienically safe and clean, and almost everywhere plastic gloves are used to handle food. On very hot summer days, avoid eating minced meat, grilled liver, or any other food that looks as if it may possibly have been standing around. Wash your vegetables and fruits, and if you have a particularly sensitive stomach, wash them with filtered water, or peel them.
When choosing a place for eating, see that it looks clean and is reasonably crowded, and also that the vendor looks clean and healthy.
It is better not to drink tap water, particularly as water is cheap and easily available. Tap water, however, is safe for cleaning teeth. Bottled soft drinks are on sale everywhere. Tea is a good option, since water is boiled in making it.
Major Iranian cities suffer from air pollution (particularly in winter). Asthmatics and other who are particularly sensitive to air pollution should wear masks that are on sale in drugstores.
In summer, never go out without a hat or a sunscreen (woman can wear a hat over their headscarf). Always apply a lipsalve and a barrier cream, and protect your eyes with good quality sunglasses. There is a real risk of sunstroke or heat exhaustion during midday hours. Avoid excessive exertion in the hottest time of the day, drink extra fluid, and eat more salt with your food.
Mosquitoes are more annoying than dangerous in most parts of Iran, but it is a good idea to bring some repellent lotion.
The choice of electric vaporizers is limited, but spare tablets are on sale in pharmacies, supermarkets, and large groceries.
There is no great threat of rabies. However, if bitten or scratched by an animal, wash and cover the wound, and go straight to a hospital. If you go into a ruined building, make excessive motion so that snakes, if there are any, retreat.
In general, Iran is a healthy country to travel in, and you are unlikely to catch any exotic deceases here. The main troubles for tourists are stomach upsets and heat exhaustion. Ask your doctor what medicine should be in your medical kit, and bring them with you. Make sure you are healthy before you start traveling. No vaccinations are required before entering Iran, but your doctor may advise inoculation against hepatitis, malaria, and typhoid.
If you do not feel well, start by consulting with a pharmacist regarding your symptoms in any drugstore. Iranian pharmacist are able to diagnose minor health problems and to suggest appropriate treatment. In case you need a doctor, do not hesitate to contact one. The quality of health care is reasonably high by international standards. Many doctors have received training in the West, and speak basic European languages. In an emergency, summon a taxi to get you to the hospital unless you are accompanied by an Iranian who can call an ambulance. If you get seriously ill, inform your embassy immediately, and for life threatening cases, consider flying back home. Treatment is never free, so it is wise to have travel insurance with health coverage.
