Iran

It is one of the oldest centres of civilisation in Asia and the Persian Kingdom was one of the great powers of the ancient world. Its magnificence can still be seen in the palaces and rock carvings dating back 2500 years.

With the Arab invasion in the 7th century AD, Iran adopted an Islamic culture and now boasts some of the most wonderful examples of Islamic architecture in the world.

Foreigners are still a novelty in Iran and visitors are invariably overwhelmed by the friendliness and hospitality of the people.