If there is one country that I would have never imagined setting foot on, that is definitely Iran.

Iran is often misunderstood as a travel destination. Blame it on how the media, at times, sensationalize things. Hence, some official paranoia does exist. So don’t listen to everything you hear about Iran in the media. In a country steeped in ancient tradition, there is a lovely essence of modern flair and goodness among its people.

My Iran trip holds many surprises for visitor like me. The climate can fluctuate greatly, depending on the area and time of year, dispelling the long-held myth that Iran is nothing more than a vast, sweltering desert. I was so surprised to have experienced a 2 – 8 deg C weather when I was in Tehran and Tabriz.

Despite its tarnished reputation, Iran offers a unique experience, especially for those with a love of ancient history (and good food, and pistachios and saffron). The people who live there are warm and eager to share their country and heritage with visitors and those who travel there are certain to leave a little richer from the experience.Tehran, Iran’s bustling and surprisingly, modern and beautiful capital with the Tochol mountain as its backdrop.

And this was the view when i had my lunch atop the Milad Tower.

Tehran, Iran’s bustling and surprisingly, modern and beautiful capital with the Tochol mountain as its backdrop, was a sight to behold when I had my lunch atop the Milad Tower.

Milad Tower: Being a multi-purpose structure, Milad Tower is the fourth-tallest freestanding telecommunication tower in the world, offering a five-star hotel, a convention center, a world trade center, an IT park, a shopping center, food courts, an observation deck, and Borj Milad Restaurants at the top with a panoramic view of. Almost everything inside the Milad Tower turns into gold as the sun sets at this side of the world.

Behind me is a miniature version of Tehran’s first movie house. And when you peep through it, you’ll actually see a movie being shown.

Azadi Tower: The tower, originally built in 1971 to commemorate the 2,500th anniversary of Persian monarchy, became a symbol of freedom during and after the 1979 revolution which toppled the reigning Pahlavi dynasty. Its name changed from Shahyad Tower, or Kings Memorial, to Azadi or Freedom.

Tehran Bazaar: Tehran’s Grand Bazaar is the ultimate shopping experience in the country. It extends for about 10km in length with over 180 stores that sell anything from spices to shoes, rugs, clothes, and antiques.

The train from Tehran center to a small Iranian city called Karaj. Plus that lovely mountain view. Btw, I never imagined Iran to be this cold and beautiful.

PS: Thank you to my boss for sending me here to talk about radiopharmaceuticals and nuclear medicine. I am forever grateful for the experience.

Tabriz and Elgoli Park

El Goli Historical Park is one of the most visited sites in Tabriz. It includes a small palace in the middle of a lake. The mansion, which was used as a royal summer resort during Qajar dynasty, presents traditional Iranian architectural style practiced in Azerbaijan.

I will never forget how these places in Iran made the wanderlust in me fulfilled and happy. I am proud to say that I I walked (around Tehran’s lovely streets), I (my taste buds) danced (with delight while enjoying Persian food), and I smiled (because of the Persians’ hospitality) in Iran. Take it easy.