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Mashhad Travel Checklist

Mashhad Travel Checklist

Mashhad Razavi Khorasan, Iran Travel Guide

Your Planning Timeline

Follow these steps to facilitate a smooth journey to Mashhad.

Milestones

Strategic planning for a worry-free travel experience.

3M

Three Months Before

Visa Application & Flights

Apply for Iran visa (US, UK, Canadian citizens require more time).

International Flights & Research

Book international flights. Research itinerary and major attractions.

Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive Travel insurance, with Iran coverage.

1M

One Month Before

Domestic Travel & Accommodation

Book domestic flights, trains, or buses. Book your accommodation.

Tours & Health

Arrange particular tours or guides. Check vaccinations with your physician.

Document Preparation

Gather all necessary documents: passport copies, insurance details.

1W

One Week Before

Confirmations & Currency

Confirm all bookings. Exchange foreign currency into USD or EUR cash.

Packing & Digital Tools

Pack for climate and dress code. Download offline maps, translation apps, VPN.

Bank & Contacts

Let your bank know you're traveling. Set up emergency contacts.

Advance Bookings

Secure these items well in advance for a stress-free journey.

Reservations

  • Visa application and approval.
  • International and domestic flights.
  • Hotel or guesthouse accommodation.
  • Private tours and specialized guides.

Home & Local Research

Prepare your home and familiarize yourself with local context.

Home Preparations

  • Inform family or friends of your itinerary.
  • Arrange for pet care, mail collection, or house-sitting.
  • Pay any outstanding bills before departure.
  • Secure your home and notify neighbors.

Cultural & Logistical Research

Gaining insight into local conditions.

Cultural Immersion

  • Iranian culture and etiquette.
  • Local customs and social norms.
  • Dress codes and appropriate behavior.
  • Historical context of Mashhad.

Practicalities

  • Currency exchange details and rates.
  • Internet censorship and VPN use.
  • Transportation options and costs.
  • Local food and dining scene.

Safety & Health

  • Current political and social situation.
  • Health precautions and vaccinations.
  • Emergency contact information and protocols.
  • Basic Farsi phrases for communication.

Timely Visa Application

For travelers requiring an Iran visa, starting the application process early is prudent, especially for longer processing times.

Arrival & Departure

Smooth transitions for your entry and exit.

Seamless Arrivals

  • Clear Immigration

    Clear immigration with visa documents.

  • Exchange Initial Currency

    Exchange initial currency at the airport.

  • Purchase Local SIM

    Purchase a local SIM card.

Orientation & Initial Needs

  • Locate Services

    Locate nearest metro/bus stops, money exchange offices.

  • Obtain Local Map

    Obtain a local map (Persian and English if possible).

  • Transport Card & Cash

    Buy a public transport credit card and have cash for initial taxi fare.

Departure Preparations

Souvenirs & Shipping

Plan for souvenir purchases throughout your trip.

Confirm international shipping options and costs with vendors. Be aware of customs limits, especially for saffron.

Timing Your Exit

Arrive at the airport or station with ample time (2-3 hours for international flights).

Complete any final souvenir shopping before heading to the airport.

Final Checks

Verify that all your documents are in order.

Confirm your onward travel arrangements. VAT refunds are not applicable in Iran for tourists.

Efficient Transfers

Pre-booking your airport transfer offers peace of mind and optimizes time upon arrival and departure.

Home Preparation

Ensure peace of mind before you travel with these home preparation tips.

Security & Care

  • Secure everything windows and doors.
  • Set timers for lights to create an inhabited impression.
  • Arrange for pet care or a house-sitter.
  • Water plants or arrange for plant care.

Communication & Bills

  • Inform family or friends of your itinerary.
  • Arrange for mail collection or hold mail delivery.
  • Pay any outstanding bills online or in advance.
  • Unplug unnecessary electronics to save energy.

Health & Safety Reminders

Health and safety aspects require careful consideration.

Critical Checks

  • Check vaccinations and carry any prescriptions.
  • Understand local emergency numbers.
  • Secure comprehensive travel insurance.
  • Review foreign travel advisories.

Connectivity & Digital

  • Plan for a local SIM card upon arrival.
  • Install a VPN for internet access.
  • Download offline language help and map apps.
  • Back up important documents to cloud storage.

Your Checklist

A meticulously prepared checklist leads to a calm and organized travel experience.

Ensure all aspects, from home arrangements to digital tools, are handled.