Iran has always been a dream destination for us—an exotic blend of history, culture, and adventure. After riding through Europe and the Middle East, we finally crossed the border into this fascinating country everyone was telling us about. What followed was a journey unlike any other, full of surprises, contrasts, and unforgettable moments.
Arrival and First Impressions
After crossing into Iran, reality quickly set in: this wasn’t just another country. On our very first day, police stopped us, inspected our phones, and asked questions about our trip. “Where are you from? Why are you here? What do your parents do?” they asked. Apparently, they’re cautious about foreign journalists. It felt intense at the time, but that didn’t overshadow the excitement of finally being in a place we had dreamed about for so long.
The Warmth of the Iranian People
Despite the serious start, the people we met were overwhelmingly kind and welcoming. Wherever we stopped, locals would wave, offer snacks like fruit or nuts, and even ask for photos with us. Tourism isn’t widespread here, so travelers are something of a novelty. It’s impossible not to feel like a celebrity when people constantly stop to greet you or strike up a conversation.
The kindness extended beyond just gestures. People went out of their way to make us feel welcome, often offering help without us even asking. It was humbling and heartwarming.
Navigating Cultural and Regional Contrasts
Iran is a country of contrasts, not just geographically but culturally. The northern parts, especially cities like Tehran and Isfahan, felt surprisingly modern—sometimes more European than some cities in Europe! Trendy coffee shops, Neapolitan-style pizzas (which they claim to have learned from YouTube 😄), and an incredible sense of safety made the capital city a standout.
On the other hand, the southern regions, like Yazd, carried a more traditional vibe, with stricter cultural expectations. You could feel the difference, especially as a traveler. In these areas, we were extra mindful of how we dressed and behaved.
A Complex Political and Cultural Landscape
Talking to young people, it became clear how much they yearn for freedom. Many spoke about their desire to live without the strict rules and dress codes imposed by the government. The current president’s leadership has brought back some of the restrictions, leaving the younger generation feeling disillusioned and longing for change.
Social media and Western media are blocked, forcing people to rely on VPNs to stay connected. Even that isn’t easy, as VPNs are frequently restricted. Despite these challenges, people find ways to express themselves and connect with the outside world.
The Economy and Dual Currency Confusion
Another interesting aspect of Iran is its unique currency system. They use Rial and Toman interchangeably, which can be confusing for newcomers. One Toman equals 10 Rials, but even locals sometimes aren’t sure which to use in conversation. It’s a quirky challenge that made our day-to-day transactions a bit of an adventure.
On the bright side, fuel was ridiculously cheap—cheaper than water! We joked that we could probably ride across the entire country for the cost of a single meal.
Exploring the Highlights
- Tehran: Forget what you expect—this isn’t some mix of Morocco and Turkey. Tehran is modern, vibrant, and full of surprises. We found trendy cafés, amazing food, and an incredible sense of safety. Walking around at night felt as secure as during the day. The only chaos? The traffic. 🚦😂
- Isfahan: Home to one of the largest squares in the world, this UNESCO-protected city is a historical and architectural treasure. Wandering through its bustling bazaars and admiring its intricate mosques was an experience we’ll never forget.
A Land of Generosity and Complexity
Iran left us with a mix of emotions. On one hand, the cultural richness and kindness of its people were unforgettable. On the other, the stories we heard about government crackdowns and the struggles of the younger generation were sobering.
We came to Iran for the adventure, but we left with a deeper understanding of its people and the challenges they face. The contrast between the north’s progressive atmosphere and the south’s conservatism paints a complex picture of a country caught between tradition and modernity.
The Journey Continues
Iran was everything we hoped it would be and more. From the awe-inspiring architecture of Isfahan to the bustling streets of Tehran, every day brought something new. Riding through this vast and diverse land reminded us why we love motorcycle travel—it’s not just about the destination but the stories and connections along the way.
If you’ve ever considered visiting Iran, do it. It’s a country that will challenge your perceptions, warm your heart, and stay with you long after you leave. And if you can, do it on two wheels—it’s the adventure of a lifetime. 🏍️
