Tourism in Mashhad, Iran
For most travelers, Iran isn't the top on the list when it comes to places to visit. But don't let what you see on the news deter you from experiencing one of the most historically important areas in the entire world. This is one of the few countries where you can see both Byzantine and Roman ruins. One of the cities that draws in some of the most tourists in the country is the Northeastern city of Mashhad.
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Money
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In Mashhad, as in the rest of the country, money is easily and freely exchanged, however, if you are traveling from the United States, you will not be able to use credit cards, debit cards or travelers checks. American money is accepted and will be exchanged, but because of the trade sanctions the American government has placed on the country, the other form of payments will not go through because the American banks have been programed to not allowed the transaction to take place. Because of this, only bring in normal currency (bringing in Euro's and British Pounds may also be a good idea, just in case you find some place that doesn't take American money).
Boq'eh-ye Khajeh Rabi
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This mausoleum was built to honor one of the apostles of Mohammad. With is large blue dome, the structure is one of the most important Muslim monuments in the entire country, and for travelers who are not Muslim, it is best to avoid the location during local holidays, because the area can be overflowing with visitors and pilgrims who have come to see the monument.
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Mosques
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For those who find mosques particularly breathtaking, the city has several of them within its walls. The first and greatest is the 15th century 72-Martyrs Mosque, which is just outside of the city limits. There are several smaller local mosques throughout the city, as well as smaller mausoleums, where are dedicated to people important to Iran's history.
Carpets
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People looking to by fine hand made carpets have come to the right place. There are multiple bazaars throughout the city which specialized in selling locally made carpets. Some of these such locations include the Bazaar-e Fash, Carpet Bazaar, and Saroye Saeed. Often times when you complete a purchase of a rug, it is customary to drink a cup of tea with the seller. It would be a great insult if you refuse the tea, so it is best to sit down and enjoy the beverage with the company.
Food
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One of the most famous tea houses in the entire country is the Hezardestan Tradional Teahouse. The restaurant is covered in antique rugs and other items from the area, and there is usually live music playing during the evening time. However, be prepared to pay a pretty penny while here. There are particular surcharges and taxes placed on the food that seem to change with each customer, and sometimes you can expect to pay more than double what the food actually cost.
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References
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