I'm in the process of booking onto the Persian Explorer starting on 4 June, but am a bit concerned that it will be really hot (expecially as I know I have to cover up, hair and all). How hot is it likely to be, and are we mostly in air conditioned buses and hotels?
Also I've been reading about the religious holiday on 4 June when it sounds as though everything shuts down for a few days. How will this effect the tour, restaurants, transport from the airport etc.
I'd also be really keen to hear from someone who has been on this tour - sounds a fascinating place to visit, but I'm still not quite sure!
Re: Iran - temperature and religious holiday in June
Hi there Annabel,
It's great to hear you're thinking about travelling to Iran.
Firstly, June is one of the hottest months of the year in Iran. You should expect to experience temperatures in the low to mid 30s (celcius). Having said this, the areas where the Persian Explorer takes you are at relatively high altitudes (around 1500m - 1800m) and are very dry, so the heat is much easier to cope with than in high-humidity areas.
We try to arrange air conditioning in hotels, wherever possible, but there are some places where this is not available.
I'd say that unless you are someone who does not cope well with the heat, you should be fine.
As for the public holiday on 4 June, this should not disprupt tour arrangements. The holiday is only for 1 day, which is the arrival day of the tour, so no activities are scheduled in any case.
An arrival transfer is included in the cost of the trip. Provided we have your flight details well in advance, we will meet you at the airport and transfer you to the start point of the trip. So, the availability of transport will not be an issue. Money changing facilities at the airport will be open on 4 June. Make sure you change money at the airport as the banks will be closed.
If you'd like more information about Iran, please let me know. There's loads to tell you, but I think it's easier if you come back with specific questions.
A lot of the travelling I've done there has been solo, so I'm a good source of information especially on the subject of women travelling in Iran. For now, the one thing I will say is that Iran is sure to be one of the most fascinating places you will ever visit and Iranians are fantastic people, especially in their treatment of foreigners - very respectful and welcoming - you'll really feel like an honoured guest.
That's all for now. Let me know if you need any more information.
[This message has been edited by Jackie Firmstone (edited April 03, 2000).]
Re: Iran - temperature and religious holiday in June