In Iran with Rick Steves

Middle East/N.Africa — By Bob Riel on July 17, 2008 at 5:40 pm

Rick Steves became famous for his European travel advice, but he recently journeyed to Iran in order to produce a documentary about that country and its people. A photo essay about the trip was then published in Yes! magazine. The experience was described by Abdi Sami, who accompanied Rick on his travels.

Over the years, Rick had introduced so many travelers to European destinations through travel books, television programs, and travel blogs. Friends asked him to consider how he could increase understanding between Iran and the United States. Rick realized that the most powerful thing would be to produce a television show introducing Americans to the true Iran … the people, their extraordinary hospitality, their beautiful country, and ancient history.

Everywhere we went, we came across people young and old, teachers, students, artists, business people, soldiers, and farmers and we were always, always received with warmest welcomes and with smiling faces.

The photo essay begins here.