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  Culture Tour & Package - Iran Tours - 5 Days Iran: Tehran & Qazvin (Ref. no: IRN - 5D)
Iran – Land of Ancient Persian Civilization

With earliest settlement by the Aryan tribes about 3500 years ago, Iran is one of the oldest cradles of the human civilization.  Throughout Iran’s history, despite the fact that there were numerous devastating invasions and occupations in the territory, several kingdoms such as Cyrus and Darius helped shape Iran as a distinct political and cultural entity.  At the glory of these empires, magnificent architects and builders were brought back to erect architectural masterpieces like palaces, monuments and ceremonial complexes leaving numerous archeological treasures.  Series of reforms were made by Darius I to strengthen the ruling of the Achaemenid Empire.  To symbolize the power of the rulers, four capitals were kept including a grand palatial complex newly built in Persepolis (Takht-eJamshid) for formal ceremonies, festive celebrations and receptions of delegations from the vassal nations; Ecbatana for summer hideaway; Babylon for winter and Susa for spring.  After Alexander the Great conquered Persia, the palaces were sacked and royal treasures taken away.  Destroyed and abandoned, Persepolis was rediscovered at the beginning of the 17th century as the most impressive and extensive archaeological site in Iran, displaying the finest examples of Achaemenian carvings.

Middle East was divided into two large empires in ancient time, with the western part under Roman whereas the eastern part under Greek and latter Roman to become Persia.  Due to the ethnic wars, colonization and cultural exchange, under the influence of Greek and Roman, different  religions gradually developed from polytheistic to monotheistic, dominating by two major religions namely Christianity and Muslim.  After Christianity flourished, Muslim over-whelmed the area in the 7th century up till now due to the special traditions among the Jewish, Persian and Greek. 

The name Persia or Persis derived from a province situated south-west of Iran and near the east coast of Persian Bay called Fars or Pars.  As the local dialect of this province was widely spoken by the Persians and so it (Farsi) becomes their official language.  In 1935, the country’s name was changed to Iran, derived directly from Aryan (meaning “of noble origin”).

The relics in Iran are wonderful combinations of Ancient Greek, Egypt and Mongol arts and crafts, which are notable historical and cultural heritage.  Nowadays, Iran is still filled with strong Islamic atmosphere of ancient Persia.  Tehran, its capital, is the artistic centre of West Asia.  Its historical sites are classical architectural masterpieces.  Isfahan, meaning half of the world, is the hometown for Shiite sect of Islam with magnificent mosques and palatial architectures everywhere.  In the hustle and bustle bazaars, colourful and special local arts and crafts are made in front of you at the traditional workshops and then displayed in varieties.  Shiraz is famous for its poets and paintings.



 

Iran used to be called Persia, a name derived from Fars province where the Aryan tribes had settled.  In 1935, Reza Shah had the country’s name changed to Iran, derived directly from Aryan (meaning “of noble origin”). In 1979, the country was officially named Islamic Republic of Iran. 
 
Known as a Middle Eastern country, Iran is located in West Asia with neighbouring countries such as Armenia, Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan to the north; Turkey and Iraq to the west, Afghanistan and Pakistan to the east. To the south, it is bordered by the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman.  Its capital, Tehran, is not just the biggest city in Iran, but also the political, cultural, commercial and industrial centre of the nation.  Iran is rich in natural resources, including petroleum, natural gas, coal, chromium, copper, iron ore, lead, manganese, zinc, sulfur.  It is the second-largest oil producer and exporter in OPEC after Saudi Arabia. 

Iran’s long and intriguing history has made the country a mystery one.  The fascinating Persian Empire and the rise and fall of the glorious kingdoms have amazed both archaeologists and explorers.  Currently there are over 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Iran, including the world-renowned Persepolis, the capital of the Achaemenid Empire during 550 BC – 330 BC. Destroyed and abandoned, Persepolis was rediscovered at the beginning of the 17th century as the most impressive and extensive archaeological site in Iran, displaying the finest examples of Achaemenian carvings.
 
















 

 





  • 1.
     
    Hong Kong - Bangkok                          Approx. 3 hours by flight
    Bangkok - Tehran               Approx. 8 hours by flight
    Take a flight to Tehran via Bangkok. Our tour guide will meet you at airport and transfer you to hotel for rest.
    Accommodation at Enghelab or Ferdowsi (4-Star) or similar
     

    2. Tehran - Qazvin                                         Approx. 2 hours by car
    After early breakfast, drive to Qazvin - the largest city and capital of the Province of Qazvin in Iran. It was an ancient capital in the Persian Empire and nowadays known as the Calligraphy Capital of Iran. Visit the 1000-year old Qazvin Bazaar and handicraft street where you may have a chance to taste Rose water. After that, visit Shazded Hossein Mausoleum which is the mausoleum of one of the eight sons of Shia Imam that during Safavid Era (1501–1736) a shrine was built around his tomb. Onwards to Chehel Sotun (literally “Forty Columns”) and its Calligraphy Museum.
    Accommodation at Behrouziha House (4-Star) or similar
    (B, L & D at Behrouziha Traditional House)

    3. Qazvin - Tehran                                          Approx. 2 hours by car
    After breakfast, drive to Tehran - the soul of Iran, the most secular and liberal city with wide range of ethnic and international restaurants, chic cafes and plenty of art galleries which attracts visitors from across the world.
    Tehran city tour; visit Archaeological Museum that hosts historical monuments and medieval Iranian antiques. Then visit Golestan Palace Complex (UNESCO Cultural Site) and National Jewellery Museum where most of the royal jewelry from Safavid, Afsharid, Ghajarid and Pahlavid Dynasties of Iran is in display. Enjoy dinner in Darband, located in a secluded valley with enchanted greenery. You may savour tea in tea house during your free time.
    Accommodation at Enghelab (4-Star) or similar
    (B, L & D)

    4. Tehran - Bangkok                                         Approx. 8 hours by flight
    After breakfast, visit Azadi Square to see the famous Azadi Tower. Visit Carpet Museum of Iran afterwards. Walk through Tabiat Bridge and stroll through the Grand Bazaar. Transfer to Tehran airport for an evening flight.
    (B, L & D)

    5. Bangkok - Hong Kong                                  Approx. 3 hours by flight  
     



  •  
    5 Days Iran (Tehran & Qazvin) (Ref: IRN-5D)  
     

    -          
    Qazvin, an ancient capital of Persian Empire which dated earlier than Isfahan
    -          
    Tehran, modern capital of Iran where past and present collide
    -
    UNESCO Cultural site: Golestan Palace Complex
    -          
    Dynamic and chaotic Iranian bazaars: Qazvin Bazaar & Tehran Grand Bazaar
    -          
    National Jewellery Museum to see breathtaking royal treasures of Iran
    - Chill out and dine at Darband, an ideal respite away from the bustling Tehran city
    - Dinner at Behrouziha Traditional House for Polow (Persian rice) & Iranian Tea

  •    

  • 5 Days Iran (Tehran & Qazvin) (Ref. no: IRN - 5D)

    Starts:
    Hong Kong
    Ends:
    Hong Kong

     
    Price:
    2 persons:
    from HK$15,380
    Single room supplement: HK$1,800
    3 – 5 persons:
    from HK$14,380
    Single room supplement: HK$1,800
    6 – 9 persons: from HK$13,180 Single room supplement: HK$1,800
    10 – 14 persons*:
    from HK$12,880
    Single room supplement: HK$1,800
    15 persons or above*: from HK$11,980 Single room supplement: HK$1,800
    * Including a Hong Kong Tour Escort 

    Upgrade to 5-star hotel for 2 nights: From HK$900
    Single Supplement at 5-star hotel: HK$2,600
    Tehran 2 nights: Azadi Hotel or similar
    Upgrade is not available in Qazvin

    Price Includes:
    1.     Sightseeing tour as indicated in the itinerary.
    2.     International & domestic flight ticket (economy class) as indicated in the itinerary.
    3.     Transfer to the sightseeing spots.
    4.     All accommodations, based on double-occupancy.
    5.     All admission fees and activity expenses as indicated in the itinerary.
    6.     Meals as indicated in the itinerary.
    7.     English speaking guide in each destination. (For 6 persons or above traveling together, Mandarin-speaking guide can be arrnaged, subject to subcharge).
    8.     Group insurance is covered with max. HKD300,000 for the accidental death or permanental total disablement.
    9.     Hong Kong Tour Escort will be included for 10 people or more persons traveling together.
    10.  Tour commentary headset per traveler during sightseeing.
     
    Price excludes:
    1.     All airport tax, security & fuel surcharges ,custom, Aviation insurance tax and excess baggage fee.
    2.     Travelling document and visa fee.
    3.     Meals not stated in the itinerary and alcoholic or imported beverages during meals.
    4.     Transfers to the starting and from the ending points of the tour.
    5.     Personal expenses such as laundry, phone call, mini bar consumption, beverage, medical care, porterage service at hotel and airport, optional tours and other services which are not specified in the itinerary.
    6.     Excursions and admissions to sites not included in your itinerary.
    7.     Personal travel insurance - as advised by the Travel Industry Council of Hong Kong (TIC), tour participants are recommended to purchase a travel insurance policy which covers at least emergency evacuation, death and disability before tour departure. Please consult the travel agency at which you booked the tour.
    8.     All expenses incurred by the tour member who extends his/her stay such as hotel accommodation, all local transfer, porterage service at hotel / airport and air ticket surcharge for extended stay or upgrade.
    9.   Porterage fee for staff from airport, hotel or other transports.
    10.   In the case of unexpected incidents such as typhoons, rainstorms, flight delay/cancel, natural disasters, political unrest or epidemic, the Company shall not be responsible for any additional costs such as hotel accommodation, transportation fees, long distance telephone charges, meal etc. as a result from the incidents mentioned above.
    11.   Discretionary gratuities for local guides and drivers and tour escort (suggested $700 per person).
     
    Remarks:
    1.     Child under 12 years old and share the room with parents will be charged 85% of the tour price.
    2.     Please refer to "Tour Terms and Conditions" for reference.
    3.     All fares are for reference only and are subject to change.
    4.     The above itinerary and price are valid till 31 December 2017.
    5.     The above itinerary is for reference only and subject to change. We reserve the right to change the itinerary without prior notice.
  • Tour Remarks

    1.    Itinerary includes flights, meals as indicated, local tour guide, entrance fees, hotel accommodation as indicated (twin-sharing), transfers to the sightseeing spots, TIC levy, and group travel insurance of HK$300,000.
    2.    Itinerary excludes airport tax, security and fuel surcharge, Uzbekistan Visa, gratuities (escort, tour guide & driver where applicable), expenses of personal nature such as alcoholic drinks and phone bills, personal travel insurance, etc.
    3.    Customized and small-group tours can also be arranged based on your travel schedule and needs.
    4.    Itinerary is for reference only and is subject to change without prior notice.
     
    Tour Terms and Conditions
     
    Reservation and Payment
    1. Please contact Silk Road Travel Management Ltd to make your reservation.
    2. A non-refundable deposit of 30% of the tour price per person is required upon submission of the booking form.
    3. Balance payment has to be made at least 45 days prior to tour departure or Silk Road Travel Management Ltd reserves the right to cancel the tour without prior notice.
    4. Payment can be made through bank transfer / remittance payable to SILK ROAD TRAVEL MANAGEMENT LTD.

    Please note
    1. Although the tour-pamphlets indicate forms of transportation, hotels, places to be visited, duration of stay at each city and sights to be seen are subject to change.
    2. No refund will be made for any unused portion of the tour.
    3. A single passenger must be prepared to pay for single supplement if a roommate is not available.
    4. As advised by the Travel Industry Council of Hong Kong (TIC), tour participants are recommended to purchase personal travel insurance which cover at least emergency evacuation, death and disability.

    Cancellations and Refund
    1. For cancellation received 45 days before departure, the deposit will be forfeited but the balance paid will be returned.
    2. For cancellations received 44 to 30 days before departure, 50% of the tour cost will be charged.
    3. For cancellations received 29 to 11 days of departure, 80% of the tour cost will be charged.
    4. Full charge will apply for any cancellation received within 10 days before departure or unused portion.
    5. All deposits and payments are non-transferable.

    Responsibility
    The tour operator and its associated companies and/or agents act only in the capacity of agent for the client. They shall not be responsible or liable for any injury, damage or loss of property or person, or whatsoever expenses arising from the use of any accommodation, conveyances of services, and from sickness, fire, weather, natural calamities, strikes or Government restrictions. Any loss or additional expenses, resulting from the above contingencies shall be borne by the client. The handling of baggage is at the client’s risk throughout the tour. Small articles, coats, umbrellas and other hand baggage are left to the responsibility of the client. All fares quoted are subject to change without prior notice. Should unforeseen circumstances require spending extra time on the tour, the cost of accommodation or any other expenses involved will be charged to the clients. No refund will be made for the unused portion of the tour. The relationship between the tour operator and the client shall be governed by the laws of Hong Kong and any disputes arising thereunder shall be exclusively subject to the jurisdiction of the courts of Hong Kong.
    The package tours operated by a licensed travel agent are under the protection by the TICF (Travel Industry Compensation Fund). Please make sure that the receipts for the outbound travel service are clearly franked to indicate levy payment equal to 0.15% (or the latest levy announced by TICHK) of the outbound fare paid. Bring along the photocopy of the receipt on the tour and deposit the original receipt at home or with a relative.

    Book Now!  Tel: (852) 2736 8828    E-mail: travel@the-silk-road.com

Silk Road Travel Management Ltd. (Licence No.352017)
   
Office: Suite 1602, Chinachem Century Tower 178, Gloucester Road, Wanchai, Hong Kong
Tel: (852) 2736 8828
Fax: (852) 2736 8000
E-mail: travel@the-silk-road.com

Our visit originated in Hong Kong by Silk Road Travel company (Limited) has exceeded all our expectations.
We are seasoned travellers and prefer to travel on our own and not with larger groups. Our visits with Silk Road Travel to Uzbekistan and more recently to Xinjiang Autonomous region in China (Kashgar etc) have created a liking for exploring the ancient and more recent history of the ‘Silk Road’. Recently we visited Istanbul and Southern Spain to view the Islamic art and architectural wonders and influences in those cities.

From our arrival in Tehran (met by our guide Moha Garmabedari) we were enchanted by the welcoming and friendly Iranian people which continued throughout our visit. Moha was delightful and guided us through our itinerary for the first two days before seeing us off on the plane to Shiraz. Moha and driver guided us to the palaces, Bazaars, Museums and also Darband on our itinerary in an efficient and friendly manner. We decided not to visit the modern Tabiat Bridge and spent more time in Tajrish and Grand Bazaar instead.
We flew to Shiraz where we were met by Hadi Ganjelikhan as our guide and driver. As it was late at night we were tired and the long route through the town from the airport to Elysee Hotel on the further side of the town was unexpected and disappointing.

Our itinerary in Shiraz and onwards through Persepolis, Pasargadae, Taft, Yazd, Naein, Isfahan, Abyaneh Village, Kashan and back to Tehran was completed in an exceptional manner.  We made some adjustments to the sites we were to visit from personal choice and also for factors outside of our control.

The Persian dinner with a Persian family scheduled in Shiraz was unavailable and was substituted by a surprise visit to Nartitee ecolodge homestay in the small town of Taft on way to Yazd. We chose not to visit the Tomb of Saadi nor the Holy shrine of Shah Cheragh in Shiraz as we were quite tired after a full day. The Saryazd Fort was closed but we had an interesting external inspection and to compensate for its closure  Hadi took us to visit the Fort in Maybod on the route to Isfahan which was very interesting. Hadi also described and pointed out traditional Ice works and Pigeon towers. On return to Tehran we chose not to visit Rassam Arabzadeh carpet gallery and Abgineh Museum and visited the Grand Bazaar instead. (We had purchased carpets and a miniature in Isfahan).

Where-as all of the sites throughout our tour were interesting the highlights of the visit for us were: 1.The friendliness of the Iranian people. Everywhere we went there were smiles, a few words in English, politeness and conversations with some, offers of assistance including offering us seats on the Metro.  2. Persepolis. This extraordinary archaeological site impressed us with its scale and grandeur. A huge site against the hillside and varying considerably in levels between palaces built with immense and precise stonework and carved reliefs, demonstrating the power of Darius the Great.  3. The mountains and desert areas as we drove between the cities.  4. The home stay Nartitee in Taft. A very friendly owner of this house and garden greeted us and made us most welcome for a short stop with tea and cookies. The family were of Zoroastrian faith and were open for visitors to stay.  5. The Imam Mosque in Isfahan for its grandeur, beautiful tiling and mosaics.  Also the opportunity to speak with a Mullah (excellent English) in the madrassa courtyard, who with an older colleague made themselves available for questions from visitors.  6.The Armenia quarter in Isfahan where we purchased some carpets after and a very good description and demonstration of carpet making from Isfahan and nearby areas.  7. Jame Mosque in Isfahan where the stucco work was interesting, the large expanse of unadorned brickwork in walls, columns and domes was interesting and enjoyable to see the craftsmanship of this ancient building material.  8. Zeinodin Caravansarai in the desert outside Yazd, which now accommodates visitors.  9. Our hotel Manouchehri in Kashan which was pleasant, quiet, small and comfortable in a restored family house.  10. The Grand Bazaar in Tehran, a large and busy bazaar full of merchandise for all the daily needs of locals and visitors. We purchased a silver necklace here.

Our visit was made especially pleasant and interesting by our guide and driver Hadi Ganjelikhan. who guided and drove us in his own saloon car (Pergeot).  Hadi is well educated and travelled, he speaks very good English and is thoughtful, energetic, considerate and caring. He has a charming sense of humour and combines his talents with excellent driving and electronic communications skills.

At all times he looked after our interests and in addition to safely driving busy city streets and long distances between cities he introduced us to an excellent array of Persian food wherever we went.


David and Rosemary Summers
13 Days Iran: Tehran, Shiraz, Yazd, Isfahan, Kashan (18 – 30 Apr 2018)
 


Before Departure

A set of travel kit which includes a detailed itinerary, flight schedule, hotel information and contacts will be provided before departure.

Weather
The climate of Iran is affected by terrain so it has a diverse climate which varies from different regions. The average rainfall is high in the South; the lowest temperature in winter is around 0ºC while it can reach 29ºC in summer. It is dry in the East and central area; the temperature in summer can reach 38ºC. The Zagros Mountainous district will be covered with thick snow in winter while it is dry and hot in summer. Coastal plain in the West is hot in summer and has high average rainfall and humidity. It is generally dry in most of the regions in Iran. The rainy season falls on the months between October and April.

Time Difference
Normal Time: GMT+03:30, 4.5 hours behind Hong Kong
Sunlight saving time: GMT+04:30, 3.5 hours behind Hong Kong

Language
The official language is Farsi. Arabic and English are also common languages in Iran.

Clothing
Iran is an Islamic country with traditional religious rules. Some mosques only allow Muslims to visit with the following dress code:

Ladies are required to cover their head in all public areas (including on travel bus). Please bring a scarf to cover your head and hair in the whole trip. Make sure you cover your head with a scarf before you get off the plane. You can only wear long sleeves with long dress or trousers. Open toes shoes are not allowed.

Men can wear short sleeves but it is not allowed to wear muscle shirt and shorts. Please bring trousers along with you for the trip.

A hat with good shade protection and sunglasses are essential. Sun radiation can be strong in some destinations, please bring your sunscreens and lotion along. Long sleeves and loose clothing (preferably cotton or natural fibre) is recommended for daytime use, with a light jumper and/or jacket for the cooler evenings. There will be many walking tours throughout the trip; some involve dusty and rough areas (i.e. dirt, cobblestones, etc.). Therefore, comfortable, solid walking shoes or sports shoes are essential.

Accommodation
The hotels that you will stay at provide in-room Wi-Fi service. Toiletries are provided in hotels but you may also bring your own. Avoid going out at night for your own safety.

Food & Beverages
Pork is prohibited in Iran. Lamb, beef and chicken are the major meat to be served. Please do not bring any pork or food that contains pork ingredient. Kebab, Polow (fried rice with vegetables and beef), Rice with Saffron, Tachin (Rice cake), Dizi (grill lamb) are their daily food. If you have any dietary requirements, please advise us before departure.

Local mineral water contains a higher level of minerals than western spring or bottled water and the taste can be rather "salty". Drinking wine in Iran is prohibited; there is wine with no alcohol which is famous and recommended to try. Avoid drinking tap water and eating cold dishes or beverages at the street market. Drink only bottled water and well cooked food during the trip.

Visa & Travel Document
Normally, HKSAR and China passport holders can apply for visa-on-arrival in Iran, but there were unsuccessful cases before. It is suggested that a visa application has to be processed in Hong Kong before travelling. It takes about 14 days to complete the visa application with the following documents: application form, payment slip for application, copy of passport and a photograph of the applicant.

It may take longer time to process the visa for overseas passport holders. Silk Road Travel Management Ltd will help guest prepare visa application upon confirmation of the Iran tour. Please ensure your travel documents are valid at time of travel (with at least 6 months’ validity).

Communication
Country Phone Code: +98
Most of the hotels have IDD lines which you can make IDD calls in your rooms or at business center. Internet access is restricted in some areas; the coverage might be limited though Internet connection is available at hotels (International brand). There are WiFi Internet zones at the airport; railway stations of major cities and some restaurants and shops.

Money
National currency is Rial (IRR), with exchange rate at USD1 = IRR32,417 (as of 31 May 2017). The highest banknote is IRR 100,000.

Hotels and shops often list prices in US Dollar. It is better to bring US Dollar or Euro (€) for easy exchange (preferably small amount, new and clean notes) and you are recommended to exchange small money for local use in bazaar and small shops. It is advisable to keep all documents for money exchange until departure. Paying by cheque and credit card is not acceptable in Iran.

Customs
Iran is an Islamic country; there are some customs and taboos that tourists need to respect and note. For example, physical touch between men and women and smoke in public areas such as restaurants, and mosque are not allowed. Eating pork and even talking about it is strictly restricted.

No photography is allowed in some religious monuments, airports, railway stations or near military installation. Be aware of the sign of the sightseeing spots and instructions from tour guide. If you wish to take a picture of a person, especially female in the street, please obtain his/her consent first and physical touch to women is prohibited when taking photo with them. Some hotels may have swimming pool, but men and women cannot swim together in Iran. Normally, men swim on Monday, Wednesday and Friday while women swim on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.

Many shops and restaurants will be closed in day time during Nowruz (Iran New Year) in March and Ramadan (festival of Muslim); it is not recommended to visit Iran during these festivals.

Avoid sensitive political topics such as discussing about the government and political parties of Iran, U.S and U.K, etc.

Health Information
The most common medical problems on tours are chest colds, sore throats, and the rare light bout of diarrhea or constipation. Bring along your own remedy for these ailments, as well as any prescription medicine you need since these may be difficult to find.

As it is practically inevitable in the areas where water is high in mineral and metallic salts, one should be prepared for minor gastric complaints. Consult your physician or pharmacist for recommended remedies.

IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you carry in your hand luggage any medicine you may require in case your suitcase is separated from you.
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