Rick Steves' Iran (2009)

Hi, I'm Rick Steves — in what just might be the most surprising and fascinating land

I've ever visited.

We're in Iran — here to learn, to understand, and to make some friends. Thanks for joining us.

Like most Americans, I know almost nothing about Iran. For me, this is a journey of discovery.

What are my hopes? To enjoy a rich and fascinating culture,

to get to know a nation that's a leader in its corner of the world —

and has been for 2500 years, and to better understand the

70 million people who call this place home.

We'll show the splendid monuments of Iran's rich and glorious past,

discuss the 20th century story of this perplexing nation, and experience Iranian life today

in its giant metropolis,

historic capital, and a countryside village...

["Salaam"]

Most important, we'll meet and talk with the people whose government

so exasperates America.

["situation is open.."]

We'll go to Friday prayers in a leading mosque,

consider the challenges confronting Iran's youth,

enjoy the hospitality of a family dinner

and survive the crazy Tehran traffic

before experiencing the tranquility of rural life and

meeting joyful school kids on a field trip.

Iran, twice the size of France, sits in an increasingly important corner of Asia-surrounded

by

Turkey, Iraq, Pakistan and Afghanistan.

We start in the capital, Tehran, follow an ancient trade route

south to the village of Abyaneh, to Esfahan, to Shiraz,

and then finish at Persepolis.

Every country, including our own, limits access to foreign film crews.

We're here in Iran with the permission of the Iranian government.

And we're working within the limits it sets

as we explore this complex society.

Knowing we're here to explore social and cultural dimensions

rather than contentious political issues, the Iranian government is allowing our work.

It believes the Western media has given Iran an unfair image.

They gave us our visas provided we respect its limits as enforced by our guide.

His job: keep us safe, manage the complicated permissions,

and keep an eye on what we're shooting.

Tehran, a youthful, noisy capital city, is the modern heart of this country.