Before traveling to Iran, tourists ask themselves questions: what rules and restrictions apply there for tourists and what to look for. The editors made a memo.
Entry rules
To visit Iran, foreign tourists over 12 years of age will need a negative PCR test done no more than 72 hours before departure or a certificate of vaccination against COVID-19. On the plane, you must also fill out a Self-declaration Form containing questions about cold symptoms and how you feel.
Visa
For Ukrainians arriving as part of organized groups through tour operators, there is a visa-free regime. In turn, individual travelers need a tourist visa. It is issued at the Iranian consulate or upon arrival at the airport with an electronic invitation issued by the Iranian Foreign Ministry. The cost is about 80 euros, payment in cash only. In this case, the validity of the passport must be at least 6 months. Entry may be denied to citizens who have visited Israel in the past 12 months.
Where to stay
Some tourists book one hotel for the entire period of the trip. Others – several hotels at once in different cities provided for in the route. A voucher for accommodation can be issued through tour operators or services for the selection and payment of accommodation abroad. In Iranian hotels, swimming pools, especially open ones, are rare.
Money
Visa and MasterCard payment cards are not popular in Iran. Usually paid in cash. It is preferable to exchange currency in exchange offices or bank branches. For 1 dollar they give about 42,300 Iranian rials. Almost always, prices in markets and shops are indicated in fogs. One fog is equal to 10 rials.
Dress code
Women in Iran are required to cover their arms and legs almost completely. On the head, you need to wear a scarf – Rusari. You can not wear revealing or tight outfits. In turn, men should cover their arms above the elbow, and walk only in long trousers, not in shorts. Tourists also need to adhere to these rules.
Alcohol
The country has a dry law. Importing alcohol is prohibited. Travelers note that it is still possible to buy alcoholic beverages – privately and for a lot of money.
Beaches
Beaches are divided into male and female. There are very few comfortable conditions for swimming in the Caspian Sea. Often the coastal zone is polluted. However, there is a resort in the Persian Gulf – Kish Island with golden sands and a coral reef. Both Iranians themselves and foreign guests come here.
Excursions
Most tourists come to Iran for a rich excursion program. In addition to Tehran itself, travelers are advised to visit Shiraz, Isfahan, Qom, Tabriz, Yazd, Hamadan, the province of Western Azerbaijan, and others. There are many natural attractions in the country, such as the Meharlu and Urmia lakes, the Shevi waterfall, the deserts of Deshte-Kevir, Deshte-Lut, Maranjab, etc. There are even ski resorts in Iran – Dizin, Shemshak, and Rachal.
In general, travelers respond positively about their vacation in the country. However, one must understand that Iran is a Muslim state with strict laws and regulations.