Iran has been on my travel list for quite some time. It’s not the Arab Middle East most of us know about, but rather a country that is more of a secret gem to both the sight and knowledge of a traveler. It’s a country of vast contradictions, a country filled with the super modern youth, co-existing with extreme versions of Islam. It’s difficult to explain, but I have probably never felt like I did being in Iran anywhere else in the world. Every aspect, from its friendly people, the Farsi language, the fact that you must cover your head, the hundreds of posters commemorating martyrs, the cuisine, sanctions and sanction busting, the bazaars, and the general ambiance has been captivating. I hope some of my pictures will convince those skeptical about visiting this very interesting country!