Iran Is NOT What You Think!

Traveled around Iran for 12 days in 2018 and Iran is NOT what you think it is! Touring through Iran is not like visiting Disneyland, but it’s definitely safer.

Varzaneh Desert, Iran

Crazy Start To My Iran Adventure

Me and Alireza, the guy who helped me out, eating in a 400-year-old renovated bath-house, Jarchi Bashi, Iran

I had $150 on me for my 12-days Iran adventure, and what I didn’t think of what the fact it was impossible to withdraw money from any ATM’s in Iran, because of sanctions from the US. Furthermore you can’t use Whatsapp, Facebook, Snapchat, Instagram etc., so it was a really worrying start that I had around $50 on me after my visa was paid for 12 days in Iran. Lucky for me I met a super friendly Iranian guy in the Airplane, who helped me out, and with this guy’s help I ended up having the most awesome time in Iran.

1. The People

With a lovely Iranian family, Isfahan, Iran

It’s important to state for me I came here solo, all costs where covered myself and I have no hidden agendas in visiting. I’m speaking my honest travel experience as always, and the Iranian people are incredible. If you take away anything from this blog post, please let it be that Persians are some of the most hospitable, kind and humble people that I’ve met in all my travels to 129 countries.

I interacted with as many locals as I could, and not once on any occasion was I disrespected or even looked at funny.  I even told people that I was from Denmark, and it made them even more interested to get to know me.  I was invited (dozens of times) into peoples’ houses for a cup of tea and even offered a bed to sleep in.  One time in Isfahan, I walked into a tea shop in the evening and the owner wouldn’t let me leave because he wanted to talk to me all night and he kept feeding me tea!  I made many good friends while in Iran, and I can’t wait to go back and visit them all someday soon. Iran is very high on my list of countries I want to return to sooner or later, and a big reason for that is the amazing people in Iran.

2. The Historical Sites

The Historical Sites in Iran will blow your mind! Hope to come back soon

Iran is home to one of the world’s oldest civilizations.  Human activity in this country dates back 40,000 years — and evidence of these ancient humans can be found in select places in Iran.  My favorite historical site was the Shah Mosque in Isfahan. The ocean of turquoise and blue ceramics, with majestic patterns and architecture in Imam (Shah) Mosque of Isfahan, the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wow!

3. The Society

Talking about future and sustainable tourism in Iran, with one of the most important persons in Iran, Mr. Jebali

Being in Iran is like entering a time warp back to the 1970s or 80s (not that I was alive in those decades, but from what I know, this is how the World looked like).  The models of cars on the road today don’t resemble anything modern (except for maybe a few neighborhoods in Tehran), there are NO international brands or chains anywhere to be seen except for Coca-Cola (no McDonald’s, Starbucks, Uber, Marriott, etc), and the wifi speed is very slow. You can’t use Facebook, Whatsapp etc. without a VPN!

But that all being said, it is somewhat of a refresher to be immersed in such a society, which is opposite to most countries that are overrun by tourists (like most of South East Asia).  There are no scams in Iran.  Life is as real and genuine as it gets.

4. The Food

Persian food is yummy

Ah, last but not least — the food! Who doesn’t travel for food? Iranian cuisine is so delicious, and you’ll most likely be invited for dinner many times. The cuisine is based on a combination of rice, meat, vegetables and nuts. Common herbs include saffron, cinnamon and parsley, and fruits include plum, pomegranate, apricots and raisins. Most of the meat takes form of a ‘kebab’ which is minced beef/lamb/chicken served on a plate alongside fresh vegetables like tomato, cucumber, olives, onion and lettuce.

5. The Love

Getting asked for a lot of photos in Iran

Iran is a country of love, not hate, when we talk about the super friendly population. I’ve been lucky to witness the breathtaking mosques, ancient history and the untouched nature. But it’s by and large the people that leave the most lasting impression. Iranians take you under their wings and their hospitality is the stuff of a legend.

Will never forget you Iran and I hope to revisit soon and travel more around this beautiful country!

Gustav

gus1thego.com

 

7 UNDERRATED COUNTRIES (traveler with +130 countries visited)

Some countries are very popular and are floating with tourists everywhere, but it’s not the case with these 7 countries. These are 7 UNDERRATED COUNTRIES I enjoyed a lot, and you should maybe consider these as your next travel destination!

These are 7 countries that I find really underrated, and you might consider to visit these in the near future!

7. Saudi Arabia

Edge of the World, Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is a very underrated place with a lot of misconceptions. While some may hate it because of its relatively strict rules, there’s a lot of good in it too. These are 20 Things I Like About Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia has some unique landscape you won’t see anywhere else. But is it safe to go to Saudi Arabia?

Check my YT-Video here about the safety in the country: Is Saudi Arabia Safe?

6. Bulgaria

A lot of people from my country goes to Sunny Beach or Golden Sands in Bulgaria to get super drunk and party, with some of the cheapest alcohol in Europe. But Bulgaria actually has a lot more to offer. The capital Sofia and the two very beautiful cities Plovdiv and Varna are cool places to visit + the fascinating mountains which exists in Bulgaria and the fact that Bulgaria is a diamond in the spa crown of Europe changed my mind about this country. Yes, you can have a great party in Bulgaria, but Bulgaria is so much else. Bulgaria is rich with natural resources – mineral water, healing springs, pure air (at most places). The mountains and the plains offer different opportunities for rest, relax and heal yourself.

I can recommend to visit the spa Sapareva Banya. Not many towns can say they have their own geyser. Sapareva Banya welcomes its guests by its steaming geyser in the center of the city. The town attracts us with its closeness to Sofia, its friendly locals and its huge amount of pools and thermal delights for resting and getting prettier. It should be named SPApareva Banya. Consider exploring Bulgaria properly!

 

5. Tajikistan

Tajikistan is beautiful

Tajikstan is very underrated. Its array of cultures, languages, valleys and mountains makes it interesting. The Pamir mountain range, aka the “Roof of the World”, located west, is Tajikistan’s main attraction, with its beautiful mountainous landscape and magnificent trails. Some really nice mountains in general and you have to make time for scenic stops and spontaneous detours by striking moonscapes, glistening lakes, wandering yaks, and the imposingly large, snow-capped Hindu Kush mountains. Tajikistan was a big surprise!

4. Belarus

Brest Fortress, Belarus

Belarus is one of those destinations that has most people scratching their heads and reaching for Google maps. But it won’t be long before travellers from around the globe figure out that it’s one of Eastern Europe’s unsung heroes. I traveled around Belarus in 2017, and to be fair it’s maybe the cheapest country in Europe alongside Ukraine. You get a lot of value for your money here and there’s quiet a lot to see.

My only problem here was the language barrier, when I left the capital Minsk and explored the country. If you don’t speak Belarusian or Russian it’s a little hard to communicate, especially with the older generation. Anyway, I found Belarus, the sights and the prices very underrated! Cheapest in Europe!

3. Ghana

Accra, Ghana

I traveled around Ghana in early 2019, and while the visa was a pain in the arse to get, it was such a great country on the inside. One of Africa’s most peaceful countries and a lot of cool cities like Tamale, Kumasi and Accra and a beautiful country side and nice beaches. The best thing about Ghana is the people, the music and the vibes, I loved the atmosphere in Ghana and enjoyed the characteristic way Ghanaian people speak English. Here pictured at a street celebration in Accra, and I must say the people in Ghana certainly knows how to throw a party and dance to a Sarkodie, Stonebwoy and Kweli Artur-Ghana-banger.. You name it! Great times in Ghana! Some would maybe think it’s a dangerous African country.. Not at all, one of the most underrated and awesome African countries!

2. Iran

Iran, 2018

It’s almost a cliché by now, but Iranians are perhaps some of the friendliest people in the world, and just about anyone that has been will testify enthusiastically to this. Furthermore Iran offers varied and dramatic landscapes, with beautiful mountains, forests and deserts and a lot of Natural Wonders.

Political situation is a little complicated in Iran, but let’s not forget this is truly a remarkable country; super friendly people, inimitably rich in history and natural beauty, and home to some of the oldest civilizations on Earth. All those places that you’ve heard about—Persepolis and Shiraz, the mosques of Esfahan, the Silk Road, the desert city of Yazd, the ski slopes of the Alborz and the otherworldiness of Qeshm island—they’re absolutely worth the hype.

1. Pakistan

The Pakistani people are some of the friendliest and most welcoming people I’ve encountered in my travels. For me Pakistan is the most misunderstood and most underrated country in the World. With mighty mountains, lush green plateaus, golden sand deserts, some of the oldest cities in the World and the emerald colored Arabian sea etc. The list go on! I still have the Hunza Valley in the North of Pakistan stuck in my head. BUT IS PAKISTAN SAFE? Check this video I made there: ‘Is Pakistan Safe?’

Furthermore I received so many gifts and free stuff in Pakistan, which lead me to the BIG question in this travel video: ‘Is Everything Really FREE In Pakistan?’

Pakistan is an experience you don’t want to miss out on and is for me the most underrated country!

These were in fact 7 Underrated Countries that just came to my mind.. Can you name any?

Gustav

gus1thego.com

 

Travel Pictures Of Gustav

Here are some random pictures from all over the world. One from each country/territory. I will add more here and there from new travels and adventures, so check back every now and then. Enjoy!

Albania

Tirana Square, Tirana, Albania 2016

Algeria

Algeria Algiers Gus1thego
Salaam alaikum! A gift from my Algerian host, Algiers, Algeria. 2018

Andorra

In the tiny capital Andorra La Vella, Andorra 2016

Argentina

With Argentinian legend Diego Maradona in Boca, Buenos Aires, Argentina 2015

Armenia

Yerevan Armenia Gus1thego
In front of the big blue kiwi in Yerevan, Armenia. 2017

Australia

Inside “The G” or Melbourne Cricket Ground Stadium, which hosts +100,000 people, Melbourne, Australia. 2015

Austria

Schönbrunn Castle, Vienna, Austria 2017

Azerbaidjan

Baku Azerbaidjan Gus1thego
Hand gestures in “the architectural love child of Paris and Dubai city,” Baku, Azerbaidjan. 2017

Bahrain

The Tea Club with family of the Bahrainian King, Manama, Bahrain. 2017

Belarus

Brest Fortress Belarus Gus1thego
At the Brest Hero Fortress, a WWII memorial, in the south of Belarus. 2017

Belgium

The beautiful La Grand Place City Square in Brussels, Belgium, 2017

Belize

Caye Caulker Belize Gus1thego
Denmark heavily represented in Caye Caulker island, Belize. 2019

Brazil

Sitting at the world-famous steps ‘Selaron Steps’ in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. 2016

Bulgaria

Climbing ‘The 7 Rila Lakes’ in the Rila Mountains, Bulgaria. 2018

Burkina Faso

In a village where people and crocodiles have lived together for 300 years in Burkina Faso. Surreal! 2019

Burma / Myanmar

Chilling with the buddies in Yangon, Burma. 2018

China

Beautiful sunny day at the Mutianyu section, Great Wall of China, Beijing, China 2019

Croatia

Dubrovnik Croatia Gus1thego
INSTA-SHOT 😝 Much fun walking the walls in Dubrovnik, Croatia. 2017

Cyprus

Week in Cyprus and here in party area Ayia Napa. 2016

Czech Republic

Prague Charles Bridge Czech Republic Gus1thego
Charles Bridge in Prague, Czech Republic. 2018

Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)

Hiking around small mountain villages on the border of Congo/Uganda, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC.) 2014

Egypt

Visiting the Giza Piramids, Egypt. 2013

Eswatini

Ezulwini Valley, in the northwest of the former Swaziland, Eswatini. 2018

Ethiopia

With Abushe, the African boy with the blue eyes, Jinka, Ethiopia. 2018

Faroe Islands

In the country I went to 13 times, and also where my roots are from, the Faroe Islands. Visiting the island where my grandfather was born, Sandoy, Faroe Islands. 2015

Finland

Helsinki Finland Gus1thego
Uspenski Cathedral on a cold Winter day in Helsinki, Finland. 2016

Gambia

In Bijiro Nationalpark, The Gambia

Georgia

With a police officer at a street event in Tbilisi, Georgia. 2017

Ghana

In the streets of Accra, Ghana. 2019

Gibraltar

Gibraltar Gus1thego
Two homies flexing on the way to the top of Rock of Gibraltar, Gibraltar. 2018

Greece

Naxos Greece Gus1thego
Nothing beats a greek street, Naxos, Greece. 2018

Guernsey

Hitchhiking my way around the small island and British Crown Dependency, Guernsey. 2019

Guinea

Completely in dust after my most scary border crossing from Guinea-Bissau to Guinea, Labe, Guinea

Guinea-Bissau

In the slums of Bissau, Guinea-Bissau

Honduras

Honduras San Pedro Sula Gus1thego
In front of a Honduran flag in San Pedro Sula, Honduras. 2019

Hong Kong

On top of Victoria Peak Hill in Hong Kong. 2015

India

Varanasi India Gus1thego
With a ‘sadhu’ in one of the oldest still inhabited cities in the World, Varanasi, India. 2019

Iran

Varzaneh Desert Iran Gus1thego
In the soft sand dunes in Varzaneh Desert, Iran. 2018

Iraq

With a Kurdish man who fought ISIS, near Mosul, few hours from the Citadel of Arbil, Erbil, Iraq. 2019

Ivory Coast

 

Japan

Japan Tokyo Gus1thego
The fascinating Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan. 2018

Jordan

Protecting Petra in Jordan. 2016

Kazakhstan

Almaty Kazakhstan Gus1thego
In front of the Giant Squirrel in Almaty, Kazakhstan. 2018

Kenya

Eating local food with my Kenyan friend John Kennedy in Nairobi, Kenya. 2015

Kuwait

Kuwait Kuwait City Gus1TheGo
Having tea inside a $8 million house in Kuwait City, Kuwait. 2017

Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan Issyk-Kul Gus1thego
In the Kyrgiz mountains in Issyk-Kul, Kyrgyzstan. 2018

Laos

Luang Prabang, Laos
WIth buddhist kids (monks) in Luang Prabang, Laos. 2018

Latvia

Walking around the streets of Riga, Latvia. 2017

Lithuania

In Pylimo Street 66, Vilnius, Lithuania. 2017

Luxembourg

Luxembourg MClub Gus1thego
Having a Coca-Cola in 2015 at the fancy MClub in low-tax, Luxembourg. You see me or not? 😉

Macedonia

Skopje Macedonia Lion Gus1thego
The Macedonian Lion, Skopje, Macedonia. 2017

Maldives

Learning how to Scuba Dive in Rashdoo Islands, Maldives. 2015

Monaco

Monaco Supercars Gus1thego
Supercars outside of Hotel de Paris, Monte-Carlo, Monaco. 2017

Mozambique

Maputo Mozambique Gus1thego
Mozambican specialities, Maputo, Mozambique. 2018

Myanmar

Bagan Myanmar Gus1thego
Driving around on my e-bike in the city of temples, Bagan, Myanmar. 2018

Nepal

Pokhara Nepal Gus1thego
At the World Peace Pagoda, Pokhara, Nepal. 2019

Netherlands

Amsterdam Netherlands Gus1thego
Biking around one of the greatest European cities, Amsterdam, Netherlands. 2015

New Zealand

Blending perfectly in in Hobbitton, New Zealand. 2015

North Korea

Visiting North Korea for 4,5 days in 2019

Oman

Oman Gus1thego
Somewhere close to Al Khasab, Oman. 2013

Paraguay

Outside of Shopping Del Este Shopping Mall, Paraguay. 2016

Quebec

Quebec was so close as it can get it to be its own independent country, and will maybe be in the future. Quebec City. 2019

Russia

Moscow Russia Gus1thego
At the Red Square and with Saint Basil’s Cathedral shining bright in the background, Moscow, Russia. 2018

Sri Lanka

Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya, Kandy, Sri Lanka. 2016

South Korea

Seoul South Korea Gus1thego
In my Korean ‘Hanbok’ in front of Gyeongbokgung Palace, Seoul, South Korea. 2018

Spain

Real Madrid Spain Gus1thego
Inside the dressing room of Real Madrid, my favourite football team since I was 5 years old, Madrid, Spain. 2017

Sweden

Skåne Sweden Gus1thego
A great week in one of my most visited countries. Here in Örkeljunga, Skåne Region, Sweden. 2018

Tajikistan

Iskanderkul Tajikistan Gus1thego
Pretending to work at Lake Iskanderkul, Iskanderkul, Tajikistan 😝 2018

Tanzania

Mount Kilimanjaro Tanzania
One of my greatest accomplishments! On top of the highest mountain in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro, by the age of 22 years old, Tanzania. 2015

Thailand

Spending all my money with my mate for a night in the suite from ‘Hangover 2,’ in Lebua State Tower, Bangkok, Thailand. 2012

Uganda

In top 3 of my BEST experiences ever! In the rainforest with the mountain gorillas in Bwindi, Uganda. 2014

United Arab Emirates

Dubai UAE Gus1thego
At the public beach next to Burj Al Arab with +50°C in August, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. 2018

Uzbekistan

Gustav Rosted in Uzbekistan
With the Uzbeki gang at the Registan Square in Samarkand, Uzbekistan 👐 2018

Wales

Wales Portmeirion Gus1thego
In Northern Wales and the little village Portmeirion, Gwynedd, Wales. 2016

Zimbabwe

Victoria Falls ZImbabwe Gus1thego
Before taking a helicopter tour over the spectacular waterfalls in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. 2015

 

 

 

 

 

Follow me on Instagram @gustavrosted