Once home to the Persian Empire, Iran has lived through centuries to tell its stories. Persepolis displays ancient marble ruins that show the greatness of a lost empire. In Teheran, the Golestan Palace fascinates its visitors through opulence and attention to detail, while Isfahan offers sweeping views of the Imam Square.

The precious, rose-scented gardens of Shiraz; the ancient bazaars of Tehran and Tabriz; the mosaic-and-mirror filled mosques and palaces – ancient shrines that seduce modern day pilgrims. But the highlight of Iran holidays is sure to be its people. Behind the headscarves and headlines, the Iranians are warm, welcoming – and more than ready to say Salam to the western world.