READ FIRST - safety
Iran is a destination that many governments currently advise against visiting. Conflict in the region may shut airspace and borders without much notice. Foreigners have reportedly been detained. Shortly before booking, and again before flying, read the travel advice of your own government and the advisories of other governments. Insurance covering Iran should be bought, and the contact details of your embassy (or of the country that represents yours) should be kept. Cards issued by foreign banks do not work there, so bring cash.
Entry
What visa you need turns on your passport, so look at the official site. The sources consulted do not confirm whether your nationality may apply through Iran's official electronic visa (e-Visa) system or must go through an Iranian embassy instead. Confirm this with the official e-Visa site and with the embassy before booking. Many agents ask far higher prices, so only the official site should be used. Hotel details, a return ticket and a passport with 6 months of validity should be brought.
Culture and laws - take note
Iranians are famous for their hospitality. In public, everyone is bound by Islamic dress rules. Women are required to wear a scarf over the hair and a top that is long and loose, while men should steer clear of shorts. Drugs bring severe penalties, and alcohol is banned. Affection may not be shown in public. Airports, bridges, and police, government or military sites must not be photographed; permission should be asked before photographing people, women especially. Neither the leadership nor religion should ever be criticised, and political talk is best avoided. Friday alone, or Thursday-Friday, makes up the weekend. Offering and refusing politely is the ritual called 'Taarof'; accept once an offer has been made a second time. Summers get very hot. Halal food can be found everywhere.
