Iran (Country Guide)

Great to refresh my memory of a visit some 35 years ago in preparation for a re-visit later this year

There have been some rumors concerning a previous edition. I have just been to Iran (in September 2006). The 2004 edition is as witty and informative as any Loney Planet book. When compared with two German books for travelers it is a notch above the others. I haven't found any insensitive or belittling remarks only the usual sarcasm, just as the description of Ahvaz: "Unremitting Iraqi bombing during the Iran-Iraq War didn't beautify it and subsequent redevelopment has faild to offer much inspiration." Some telephone numbers and addresses are however outdated.

These are some excerpts from the new edition from the section entitled 'The National Psyche':

"Iranians are the most surprising people. Where you might expect them to be austere they are charming; rather than dour, they are warm, and instead of being hostile to foreigners, they are welcoming and endlessly curious".

"Iranians are not frightening people. They are generally warm and welcoming to an extent that can be embarassing to Westerners."

"...the Iranian system of courtesy [...] makes Iran a haven for travellers - you will be treated with unfailing politeness wherever you go."

Now compare this with the attitude taken by the racist idiot who wrote the previous (third) edition and one realises what a huge difference it makes when the guide authors actually appreciate and enjoy being in the country about which they write.

A welcome (and IMO absolutely necessary) new edition of the guide. Lonely Planet has shown shrewd judgment in replacing the previous one as well as its author.