One chilly summer night, Ali, a passionate astrophotographer from Tehran, found himself standing in the vast, dark plains of Dasht-e Kavir. Armed with his camera, a tripod, and a star map, he had traveled hundreds of kilometers to witness the Milky Way in its full glory. As he adjusted his camera to capture the ethereal beauty above, the serene silence was only broken by the faint whispers of...

Iran is a shopper’s paradise, rich in traditional crafts, unique foods, and one-of-a-kind items you won’t find elsewhere. From intricate Persian carpets to delicious local sweets, there are countless treasures that reflect Iran's deep cultural heritage. In this guide, we’ll explore the must-have items to buy when you visit Iran, perfect for taking home as souvenirs or gifts. Persian Carpets and...

Iran may be renowned for its deserts, mountains, and historical sites, but its lush forests are equally captivating. These green landscapes offer visitors a serene retreat and a peek into Iran’s diverse ecology. From the ancient forests along the Caspian Sea to the mountainous woodlands in the west, Iran’s forests are truly enchanting and showcase the country’s natural beauty. The Hyrcanian...

Introduction to Iranian Traditional Clothing Iran’s traditional clothing is deeply rooted in the country’s rich history and cultural identity, serving as a visual narrative of its heritage. Dating back to ancient Persia, garments reflected social class, region, and religious beliefs. During the Achaemenid Empire (550–330 BCE), Persian kings and nobles adorned themselves with finely woven robes...

Last year, I had the opportunity to speak with Reza, a young Iranian filmmaker, during a film festival in Tehran. Reza shared his story about how the restrictions of Iranian cinema shaped the way he approaches filmmaking. "We don't have the luxury of making films that are just for entertainment," he told me. "Every shot, every word, every frame is carefully thought out, not only because of the...

Imagine stepping into a home during Nowruz, the Persian New Year. The air is filled with the scent of freshly baked sweets and the joy of family reuniting. As you enter the living room, you are greeted by the sight of a beautifully arranged Haft-Seen table—a traditional setup of seven symbolic items. Each object on the table tells a story, from the green sprouts symbolizing growth to the...

When people think of the Middle East, they often associate the region with Arabic. However, there’s another important language that has shaped the culture and history of the region—Farsi, or Persian. Although Farsi and Arabic are spoken in neighboring countries and share some common elements, they are very different in many ways. This article explores the differences between Farsi and Arabic,...

Every year, Mina, an Iranian expatriate living in Canada, eagerly prepares for Nowruz, the Iranian New Year. For Mina, Nowruz is a bridge connecting her childhood memories in Tehran to her current life abroad. She recalls the bustling days leading up to Nowruz, when her family would clean the house, shop for gifts, and set up their Haft-Seen table. “The joy of giving and receiving Iranian New...

Iran may be known for its deserts and historical landmarks, but it also boasts some of the best ski resorts in the Middle East. With high mountains and reliable snowfall, Iran offers a unique experience for ski enthusiasts looking for fresh powder, beautiful views, and a welcoming culture. If you’re dreaming of a new winter adventure, Iran’s ski resorts could be just the destination you’re...

As a traveler eager to experience cultural diversity, Sarah chose to visit Iran during December, curious about how Christmas might be celebrated in a predominantly Muslim country. She arrived in Tehran and was delighted to discover a festive atmosphere in the Armenian neighborhoods. Strolling through Valiasr Street, she saw shop windows adorned with Christmas trees, twinkling lights, and...