Amazing World Bike Tour: Entering Iran

Introduction

• Entering the 9th country: Iran
• Initially considered skipping due to security concerns
• Decided to proceed despite risks

Preparation and Journey

• Hitchhiked from Yerevan to border town, obtained visa
• Crossing the border felt straightforward
• First goal: Tabriz, known for its large covered bazaar

Currency and Economy

• Experienced currency confusion: 1.8 million Rials ≈ 30€
• Iran's Rial has significantly devalued
• Complex currency system: Rials, Tomans, and high inflation
• Gas prices are extremely low due to subsidies

Travel Warnings and Safety Concerns

• German ministry: Travel warning for Iran, especially for adventure tourism
• High risk of arbitrary arrest, especially for previous critics
• Filming and photographing can be dangerous
• Limited use of cameras and drones to minimize risk

First Experiences in Iran

• Traveled through villages, purchased goods at local currency
• High inflation has drastically affected prices
• Cultural and legal observations: Hijab laws, historical context
• Observance of local customs: Hijab wearing, even for non-Muslims

Police Interactions

• Experienced first police check: brief and straightforward

Human Rights and Political Climate

• Significant protests and government crackdown reported
• Mahsa Amini incident and subsequent protests highlighted
• High execution rates, especially related to recent protests

Cycling Observations

• Early mornings: Oatmeal as fuel
• Hot and dry conditions, intense sun
• Kindness and enthusiasm from locals: honking, waving
• Limited vehicle variety due to sanctions: old Nissans, Peugeots, Sabas
• Fuel efficiency not a major concern for local drivers
• Challenging cycling conditions due to road quality and heavy traffic

Early Misadventures

• Incident with bird droppings: humorous anecdote

Experience in Marand

• Plans for SIM card, money exchange, and lunch
• Strict cash-only economy due to sanctions
• Decided to stay with locals: warm hospitality and cultural exchange
• Explored surrounding areas: Zonuzaq village
• Local cuisine experience: homemade meals
• Attempt to learn traditional instrument: Tanbur
• Using local gift cards for ease of transactions

Arrival in Tabriz

• Busy roads and intimidating traffic
• Tabriz: sixth biggest city in Iran
• Visited Grand Bazaar: extensive and historic, known for carpets
• Learned about the diversity of the bazaar: jewellery, herbs, spices
• Guided by a local: a special hat and carpet market visit

Cultural and Historic Insights

• Detailed history of bazaar connected to Silk Road
• Mention of Marco Polo
• Persian rugs: craftsmanship, high value, and worldwide fame

Closing and Reflection

• Expressed the desire to return to Tabriz bazaar
• Mentioned the hospitality and safety during the visit
• Reflection on personal freedom and privilege as travelers

Future Plans

• Planned to continue journey across Iranian Azerbaijan and Kurdistan
• Teased upcoming episodes with new adventures

Support and Acknowledgements

• Mentioned funding challenges, seeking support via BuyMeACoffee
• Asked for viewer engagement to sustain channel

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