Dear Intrepid World Traveler,

We are delighted to introduce a fascinating new itinerary that is perfect for first time visitors to Iran. Attention those of you who have traveled with us to Iran over the years: this is a repeat trip especially designed with you in mind! Shiraz, as the gateway to Persepolis is never to be missed. Isfahan, the Pearl of Iran, deserves numerous visits. We’ll show you something new and let your senses feast on favorites such as a warm welcome by our famous artist friend, Mr. Mustafah Fotowat. We’ll take in the desert city of Yazd to learn about ancient technological systems using bafgirs (windcatchers), qanats (water channels from the mountains), and yakhchals (ice houses), making life in the desert along the Silk Road thrive. We’ll learn about the Zoroastrians, who Christians will fondly recognize as the Magi.

The new areas we are exploring are the west and Khuzestan. In Hamadan we’ll see Biblical sites such as Queen Esther and her uncle Mordecai’s tombs. We’ll learn about the Sassanians who made this their capital. We are also introduced to a remarkable Iranian physician and philosopher of the 11th century, Abu Ali Sina or Avicenna (Latinized) and learn about his most famous works, The Book of Healing and The Canon of Medicine. In the province of Khuzestan, the Cradle of Civilization, we’ll learn about the Elamites at Chogha-Zanbil (a 12th century BC ziggurat) and see the site of Susa, where Queen Esther protected her Jewish subjects. We’ll learn about the hearty nomadic Bakhtiera tribe whose annual migration was documented in the classic film “Grass”. In Ahwaz, we’ll learn about the Iranian Oil industry in nearby Abadan.

We are also offering the Tabriz and Caspian extension for those who would like to see a totally different landscape and more interesting history. This is another great reason to return to Iran now.
A question by those who have not yet experienced Iranian hospitality might be, “Is it safe to travel to Iran?” I sincerely believe it is as safe as anywhere else in the world. After personally escorting several tours to Iran and sending many more, the most recent in April 2009, my confidence is undiminished. We operated our first tour in 1999 and have had groups of all sizes since that time. I have a challenge for you! See for yourself! Don’t let the naysayer tarnish your enthusiasm. Many who say they will never go there themselves, do not have the resources, health, or most importantly, desire to make “the trip of a lifetime.” These are the exact words of one of the travelers on our November 2007 tour, and if you would like to talk with her or others who have traveled to Iran, we’ll gladly provide references. We’ll also provide links to photo albums including a very special one by Paulette Lewis, Friendly Faces of Iran. Just ask! The beautiful blue-eyed young woman featured on the cover of this brochure is part of the collection.

A U.S. State Department travel warning exits for Iran, as it has for several years. Travel warnings are often political tactics, which can be considered much more desirable than other forms of conflict. Call me if you have any concerns. We’ll prepare you completely with briefing material on customs and regulations including attire.

Whether you have an interest in ancient history, the archaeological and cultural aspects of Iran, or modern day life, this trip should appeal to everyone who has an appreciation for beauty and a rich historical treasure trove. November is an excellent time to visit Iran. With our highly educated and very personable local guide by your side, your driver and his assistant, you can rest assured that you will have an amazing experience to treasure and share with others.

Gwen Erwood, Travel Concepts International President

Dear Intrepid World Traveler,

The first question you are sure to ask is, “Is it safe to travel to Iran?” I sincerely believe it is as safe as anywhere else in the world. After personally escorting several tours and sending many more, the most recent in Spring 2010, my confidence is undiminished. It was in 1998 that on behalf of our company, my daughter made the first exploratory trip to Iran. She came back astonished, saying, “Ah, all the wonderful sights and sounds! The treasures held in Tehran’s museums are outstanding. Persepolis, a short drive from Shiraz, is absolutely extraordinary! Isfahan is a unique city with exquisite mosaic clad domes, bridges and Persian gardens. Iran as a whole is nothing short of breathtaking!”

We operated our first tour in 1999 and have had groups of all sizes since that time. Some experienced travelers are returning for a second trip. Through the years, the acceptance of Americans has, if anything, increased.

I have a challenge for you! See for yourself! Don’t let the naysayer diminish your enthusiasm. Many who say they will never go there themselves, do not have the resources, health, or most importantly, desire to make “the trip of a lifetime.” These are the exact words of one of the travelers on our November tour, and if you would like to talk with her or others who have traveled to Iran, we’ll gladly provide references. We’ll also provide links to photo albums including one very special one, by Paulette Lewis, Friendly Faces of Iran. Just ask!

A U.S. State Department travel warning exits for Iran, as it has for several years. Travel warnings are often political tactics, which can be considered much more desirable than other forms of conflict. Call me if you have any concerns. We’ll prepare you completely with briefing material on customs and regulations including attire.

Rich in culture, Iran is an excellent destination for those who would like to better understand the world and its people. With our highly educated and very personable local guide by your side, your driver and his assistant, you can rest assured that you will have an amazing experience to treasure and share with others.

Gwen Erwood

Dear Intrepid World Traveler,

We are delighted to introduce a fascinating new itinerary that is perfect for first time visitors to Iran. Attention those of you who have traveled with us to Iran over the years: this is a repeat trip especially designed with you in mind! Shiraz, as the gateway to Persepolis is never to be missed. Isfahan, the Pearl of Iran, deserves numerous visits. We’ll show you something new and let your senses feast on favorites such as a warm welcome by our famous artist friend, Mr. Mustafah Fotowat. We’ll take in the desert city of Yazd to learn about ancient technological systems using bafgirs (windcatchers), qanats (water channels from the mountains), and yakhchals (ice houses), making life in the desert along the Silk Road thrive. We’ll learn about the Zoroastrians, who Christians will fondly recognize as the Magi.

The new areas we are exploring are the west and Khuzestan. In Hamadan we’ll see Biblical sites such as Queen Esther and her uncle Mordecai’s tombs. We’ll learn about the Sassanians who made this their capital. We are also introduced to a remarkable Iranian physician and philosopher of the 11th century, Abu Ali Sina or Avicenna (Latinized) and learn about his most famous works, The Book of Healing and The Canon of Medicine. In the province of Khuzestan, the Cradle of Civilization, we’ll learn about the Elamites at Chogha-Zanbil (a 12th century BC ziggurat) and see the site of Susa, where Queen Esther protected her Jewish subjects. We’ll learn about the hearty nomadic Bakhtiera tribe whose annual migration was documented in the classic film “Grass”. In Ahwaz, we’ll learn about the Iranian Oil industry in nearby Abadan.

We are also offering the Tabriz and Caspian extension for those who would like to see a totally different landscape and more interesting history. This is another great reason to return to Iran now.
A question by those who have not yet experienced Iranian hospitality might be, “Is it safe to travel to Iran?” I sincerely believe it is as safe as anywhere else in the world. After personally escorting several tours to Iran and sending many more, the most recent in April 2010, my confidence is undiminished. We operated our first tour in 1999 and have had groups of all sizes since that time. I have a challenge for you! See for yourself! Don’t let the naysayer tarnish your enthusiasm. Many who say they will never go there themselves, do not have the resources, health, or most importantly, desire to make “the trip of a lifetime.” These are the exact words of one of the travelers on our November 2007 tour, and if you would like to talk with her or others who have traveled to Iran, we’ll gladly provide references. We’ll also provide links to photo albums including a very special one by Paulette Lewis, Friendly Faces of Iran. Just ask! The beautiful blue-eyed young woman featured on the cover of this brochure is part of the collection.

A U.S. State Department travel warning exits for Iran, as it has for several years. Travel warnings are often political tactics, which can be considered much more desirable than other forms of conflict. Call me if you have any concerns. We’ll prepare you completely with briefing material on customs and regulations including attire.

Whether you have an interest in ancient history, the archaeological and cultural aspects of Iran, or modern day life, this trip should appeal to everyone who has an appreciation for beauty and a rich historical treasure trove. November is an excellent time to visit Iran. With our highly educated and very personable local guide by your side, your driver and his assistant, you can rest assured that you will have an amazing experience to treasure and share with others.

Gwen Erwood, Travel Concepts International President