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Resources & References Continued

Resources & References Continued

Iran

Print Resources

Recommended Guidebooks and Maps

  • General Iran Guidebooks:

    Lonely Planet or Bradt (if updated) cover Iran, including Yazd.

  • Local Maps:

    Find at hotels, guesthouses, or tourist information centers.

  • Iran Travel Guide:

    Seek updated versions for cultural context across Iran.

  • Yazd Specific Guides:

    Detailed guidebooks solely for Yazd may be limited.

  • Tourist Pamphlets:

    Available at information centers with maps and local details.

Books About the Destination

  • "Shahnameh: The Persian Book of Kings" by Ferdowsi:

    An epic poem on ancient Persian mythology and history.

  • "Reading Lolita in Tehran" by Azar Nafisi:

    A memoir offering contemporary cultural context.

  • "The Persian Expedition" by Xenophon:

    A historical account of ancient Persia from a classical perspective.

  • "Desert Wisdom: Sayings from the Desert Fathers":

    Spiritual traditions from desert environments resonate with Yazd's setting.

  • Local Publications:

    Persian newspapers glimpse daily life.

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Numbers

Police: 110, Ambulance: 115, Fire Department: 125. These numbers are nationwide in Iran.

Hospitals & Clinics

Major hospitals in Yazd include Shahid Sadoughi Hospital and Afshar Hospital. Hotel staff provide directions.

Lost Document Procedures

Report to local police (110) immediately for a report. Contact your country's embassy or consulate in Tehran for guidance.

Further Reading & Exploration

Beyond Guidebooks

  • Watch documentaries on Persian history, Zoroastrianism, or the Silk Road.
  • Explore Persian miniature painting, calligraphy, and carpet design.
  • Listen to traditional Persian classical music.
  • Explore folk music traditions of the Yazd region.

Online Communities & Language

  • Join travel forums (e.g., r/iran on Reddit) for real-time advice.
  • Use apps like Duolingo or Memrise for basic Farsi phrases.
  • Even a small effort with Persian is appreciated by locals.
  • These communities offer practical solutions to travel challenges.

Other Essential Information

Embassy & Consulates

  • Locate your country's embassy or interests section in Tehran.
  • For US citizens, the Swiss Embassy handles affairs in Iran.
  • Keep contact details (phone, address) accessible.

Natural Disaster Protocols

  • Familiarize yourself with basic earthquake safety (drop, cover, hold on).
  • Iran is in a seismic zone.
  • For dust storms or extreme weather, seek indoor shelter.
  • Your hotel staff offers guidance.

Films & Music

  • "A Separation" or "Children of Heaven" reflect contemporary Iranian society.
  • Explore local folk music traditions of the Yazd region.
  • Persian classical music has intricate melodies and spiritual depth.

Important Considerations

Critical Reminders

Cash is King

  • International credit/debit cards do not work in Iran.
  • Carry sufficient cash (USD or EUR) for your entire trip.
  • Bring crisp, new bills for exchange.
  • Exchange at reputable banks or currency exchange offices.

Rial vs. Toman

  • Prices are often quoted in Tomans (1 Toman = 10 Rials).
  • Always clarify if the price is in Rials or Tomans.
  • A simple "Toman?" or "Rial?" confirms the unit.
  • This avoids overpaying due to confusion.

Dress Code

  • Adhering to the hijab (headscarf) and modest dress is a legal requirement for women.
  • Failure to comply leads to issues.
  • Men should also dress modestly in public.
  • Observe local customs for respectful attire.

Planning Reminders

Visa & Flights

  • Apply for your Iran Visa 3-6 months beforehand.
  • Book international and domestic flights early for better prices.
  • Secure accommodation well in advance, especially in high season.

Health & Documents

  • Purchase travel insurance (mandatory for visa).
  • Consult your doctor for recommended vaccinations.
  • Print all reservations and essential documents.

Arrival Essentials

First Steps

  • Clear immigration and customs with documents ready.
  • Obtain a local SIM card (e.g., Irancell) at the airport.
  • Exchange a small amount of foreign cash for immediate needs.

Orientation & Transport

  • Locate your accommodation using offline maps.
  • Purchase bottled water immediately upon arrival.
  • Use official airport taxis or pre-booked hotel transfers.

Departure Preparation

Souvenirs & Shipping

  1. Purchase souvenirs well in advance to avoid last-minute rush.
  2. For large items like carpets, arrange shipping with a reputable cargo company.
  3. Understand costs and customs requirements for shipping.
  4. VAT refund is not available for tourists in Iran.

Pre-Departure Timing & Return

  1. For domestic flights (AZD), arrive at least 1.5-2 hours before departure.
  2. For international connections (IKA, Tehran), allow 3-4 hours between flights.
  3. Confirm flight times and check in online if possible.
  4. Ensure enough local currency for airport transfer and last-minute purchases.
  5. Keep passport, visa, and boarding pass readily accessible.

Pre-Trip Research Areas

Culture & History

Read about Iranian culture, history, and current events.

Currency System

Understand the Rial/Toman system to avoid confusion.

Etiquette & Dress

Familiarize yourself with local etiquette and dress code requirements.

Critical Warning: VPN Setup

For accessing many international websites and social media platforms (WhatsApp, Instagram, etc.) which are blocked in Iran, a VPN is important. Download and configure your VPN BEFORE you arrive in Iran.

Preparation Timeline

Before You Go

-6 Months Before Departure

  • Apply for Iran Visa:

    Start through a reputable Iranian travel agency for longer processing times.

  • Research and Book Flights:

    Secure international and domestic flights (IKA, AZD). Early booking means better prices.

  • Book Accommodations:

    Popular traditional guesthouses fill quickly; book well in advance.

Month Before Departure

  • Finalize Itinerary:

    Solidify your day-by-day plan for Yazd and other cities.

  • Download Offline Maps & Apps:

    Google Maps, Maps.me, Google Translate (Persian pack).

  • Configure VPN:

    Confirm your VPN operates before departure.

Home & Last-Minute Checks

Home Preparation

Lock doors/windows, arrange mail/pet care, pay bills due during your trip.

Week Before

Exchange some Rials or have USD/EUR cash ready. Print all reservations.

Day Before

Reconfirm flights, charge all electronics, inform family/friends of itinerary.

Required Advance Bookings

Travel Entry

  • Visa Authorization Code and Actual Visa.
  • International and Domestic Flights.
  • Accommodation in Yazd, especially for preferred guesthouses.
  • Intercity Train/Bus Tickets, if specific times or classes desired.

Pre-Trip Research Topics

  • Iranian culture, history, and current events.
  • The Rial/Toman currency system.
  • Local etiquette and dress code requirements for men and women.
  • This is important for respectful travel.

Additional Pre-Trip Steps

Home Management

  • Secure your home by locking doors and windows.
  • Arrange for mail collection or hold.
  • Arrange for pet care if needed.
  • Pay any bills that will come due during your trip.

Work & Communication

  • Set up out-of-office replies for work emails.
  • Share your travel plans and contact information with family/friends.
  • Your itinerary helps loved ones track your journey.
  • Maintain an emergency contact list.
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