And Iran, Iran so far away

November 6, 2009 7:17 AM

I have a very generous offer for a place to stay and Farsi-speaking guides should I choose to visit Iran. Ergo, I have some questions about post-election Iran and the best way to organize this trip, if I go.

I've looked through the history, but the latest question about visiting Iran was asked before this summer's election. Has anyone been since then, or is anyone there now? As a single American woman staying with a wealthy family in Tehran, what could I expect? I'm aware of dress/behavior expectations, but I'm more curious about what day-to-day life would be like, including but not limited to reasonably unmonitored internet access. I don't speak Farsi, but I do speak French-- am I right in thinking that this would be at least marginally useful?

Bonus: I'm really interested in Iranian archaeology, to the point where (assuming all my graduate school applications aren't rejected) I'll soon be working on a very closely related MA or PhD. Is there any way that I could visit an active archaeological site? I'd be comfortable contacting professors at American universities and asking to visit their sites; is this something that a professor at, say, University of Tehran would be okay with?

If I go, it won't be for at least six months, and probably more like nine. I know things are liable to change in that period of time, but I want to know what I can expect before I get my heart set on going. Thanks!

posted by oinopaponton to travel & transportation (2 comments total)

I totally disagree.
Use common sense. You have a safe place to stay, and a family (w/ money) to back you up....give you advice, where not to go, how to dress, etc.
The academic opportunities are immeasurable. Firsthand viewing/visits of sites, museums, universities, etc.
None of us really know what is going on right now, so inquire now; keep contacts active,, explore academic connections...that establishes your legitimacy.
I'd go in a flash. (if the research and considerations above prove sound) To walk through the amazing buildings of Isfahan......
Plus, you would be seeing things largely unavailable, off-limits, to most people in the West.

Connect w/ legitimate academics...do your homework...use common sense......stay away from anything dicey. Good luck.
posted by ebesan at 12:05 PM on November 6 [1 favorite has favorites]

Rick Steves! I can't imagine anyone whose sense of travel adventure is as "safe" and uninteresting as his is (though he seems like a genuinely nice guy.) I reckon that most grandmothers I know would be a little put off by his conservative approach to travel. So when Rick Steves goes to Iran and comes back with glowing reviews of the people, food, culture and hospitality . . . even a tirade or two against America's anti-Iranian hysteria . . . well then, you know it can't be too bad. I haven't got time to do it, but if he look around for the show of his trip to Iran, it should put your mind to ease.
posted by Dee Xtrovert at 2:13 PM on November 6 [1 favorite has favorites]