Mystical Iran; an interview with small-group tour operator, Anoush

Rosie Champness — Thu, 01 Nov 2018 07:39:38 +0000

I first met Anoush about 10 years ago, in a backpacker bar in Sultanahmet, Istanbul, with his beautiful Aussie wife Sami. We were both working in tourism, and had many mutual friends.

Fast forward 8 years, and we run into each other at a travel industry function in Melbourne! We had both started our own Travel Agencies and small group tour companies, Anoush’s specialising in his home country, Iran. I spoke to him recently to find out more:

How did Mystic Tours start?

As one of the most misrepresented countries in the world, it was my passion to introduce the Iranian Culture and the vast tourism potential to the Australian people.

Whilst working within the industry I realised that many Australians are curious about traveling to Iran but there were limited opportunities available. With over 2 years of research and testing numerous itineraries and land operators before Mystic Tours was born in 2015.

What can Mosaic Travellers expect on a Mystic Tour of Iran?

Personalised service and flexibility of travelling in a small group of maximum 10 passengers as well as more opportunities to interact with locals.

In your opinion, what are the absolute ‘must-sees’ for a first-time traveller to Iran?

That is quite a hard question considering the vastness of the country and number of amazing sites to visit. But in my opinion, you should not miss the National Jewellery Museum in Tehran, Isfahan as a city and off course the ruins of Persepolis. I also recommend a short extension to Caspian coast for travellers who have more time to see a very different side of Iran.

Is there anything travellers need to be aware of when travelling to Iran?

Be ready to get surprised at every step!

When is the best time to visit Iran?

Weatherwise you can choose spring (March to May), particularly April or Autumn (September to November) especially the month of October when up north is not too cold and central Iran not too hot. However, the month of April is recommended if you wish to visit the Persian Gardens in the best condition.

Here at Mosaic Travel, we think a huge part of travelling is experiencing local food. Tell us a bit about Iranian food.

With Iran being the heart of silk road, Iranian cuisine has been inspired by many different cultures however, it has reserved its main characteristics. A typical Iranian dish is rice mixed or next to a stew of meat, vegetables, beans, herbs, nuts or dried fruit.

There are many different combinations of these ingredients. Tasty spices such as Turmeric, Saffron (almost in every dish), cinnamon and cumin are also widely used in Iranian food.

To book an incredible tour to Iran, call Rosie at Mosaic Travel on (03) 5275 4583

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