Going to Iran was a lifelong dream for me. I had wanted to go since I was a teenager and coming up to fifty years of age, I decided to go for it. I had looked into a few other travel agencies but for one reason or another they weren’t offering what I wanted. SURFIRAN answered my emails very quickly and were very helpful and polite (thanks Paria). I decided to plan for May 2023 and was told I would be joining a very small group of just three. Following the advice via email from SURFIRAN I was able to take the steps towards booking my holiday. The only problem I encountered was with obtaining my visa; the Iranian embassy was not very responsive either by email or by phone and I wasted a lot of time phoning without any luck. I decided to just turn up at the consulate and I was greeted by helpful staff. This was of course not in any way the responsibility of SURFIRAN but some help in obtaining a visa, as medical tours offer this service, would be very valuable.

Paria was very helpful and patient in providing me with links to make my payments. I received emails with information such as buying souvenirs, which documents to bring, buying travel insurance which was invaluable. I think the information about bringing various currencies to exchange came slightly later than I might have liked but I was able to ensure everything was ready in good time.

I was met at the airport by guide Sohail who assisted me with buying an Iranian SIM card and exchanging currency (dollars or euros are best). We were driven to our hotel and assisted to check in before having a much needed rest. The hotels we stayed at were reasonable and included the use of a fridge and minibar. The hotels in Shiraz and Esfahan were nicer and cleaner, breakfast was included and was good.

We were able to see Teheran via car and by foot. It was an amazing experience with really good restaurants and fantastic views and things to do. Sohail was a very knowledgeable guide.

We flew next to Shiraz and we’re met by Yasna who was knowledgeable, very friendly and cool. She stayed with us until the end of the trip and she made us feel comfortable and we visited some very interesting places including Persepolis, Pasargadae and mosques and palaces.

I had the time of my life. I was able to realise a dream I’d had for over thirty years; to visit Iran. I felt like I blended in and didn’t feel like a tourist looking in. People were very friendly and respectful and I felt safe at all times. Locals were glad to see Europeans visiting their country. I was very sad to leave and I would happily return at the earliest opportunity, albeit on a trip with a different itinerary. I loved every minute and I have the happiest memories. I long to go back and I would heartily recommend the trip to anyone with an interest in Iran.

I made de 7-day tour to iran. Maybe 9 days are better(another city more) perfect guides, good hotels. An advice: have a vpn or you will not have mobile conection.