Rick Steves’ Iran Conversation
“Rick Steves’ Iran” is airing across the USA beginning January 11, 2009 (check local listings) to help us learn more about this perplexing nation. Join in this conversation by sharing your feedback and thoughts on Rick’s travel special. For more information on travel in Iran and beyond, please visit our Encounters with Islam resource page.
Rick Steves Iran
Dear Sirs. I just finish watching your special on Iran , I have fallow many of your travels programs trough Europe and for sure this was one of the most interesting programs that I have seen ....I'm an Architect that loves to travel and meet people and understand cultures , I admire Architecture and art, Iran has lots of all of them and your program without any big pretensions accomplish the goal...It is one of the the roads to understand each other .....Simple, easy to understand , beautiful presentation of their culture and to see that we all are the same and have very similar feelings. YOUR PROGRAM MADE A GIANT LEAP <,, from a good traveling entertaining program, to a bridge to understanding people and Cultures... Congratulations, we need more programs like yours , .. You have given me a small, very small ray of hope for the industry of television
Enrique Morales <email>
McGaheysville , VA. USA 11/19/2009
Most realistic show on Iran
I'm an Iranian Student in Europe and I just watched your show on youtube. I should thank you for two reasons. First, your show is so realistic that I can't imagine if it could have been more honest than this. And second, you've had an unbelievable impression on your people. I tried to read all of the comments, but I only succeeded in reading maybe 50. the Number of positive opinions is amazingly high. Thanks again. I'm going to address your show to all of my friends who wants the truth about Iran.
Amir <email>
Luleå, USA 11/15/2009
Rick Steves' Iran
High marks go to Rick Steves for helping me as a US citzen understand the people of Iran better. It's not everyday you have somebody that approaches travel to Iran with such a peaceful perspective. Thanks to our collective governments for not giving us the whole story. Good people are good people throughout the world. It's obvious we have more to gain from our commonalities than differences.
Tom <email>
Burlington, NC USA 11/01/2009
iran show
Compliments on your Iran show. My wife and I went to Tehran, Esfahan and Shiraz on our honeymoon 43 years ago and were well received by the very nice Iranians we met. It was a pleasure to see the same beautiful sights again in HD. Thanks for the show and the memories it brought back for us.
Mark Mattison
Edgartown, Mass. USA 11/01/2009
Iran show
I liked the Iran show. It was so nice to see smiling faces and positive comments filmed in Iran, compared to the usual stuff we see on the news.
Dan
Concord, CA USA 10/31/2009
Rick Steve's Iran- a Must see
Amazing, Well done and I hope to catch the entire program. I only watched the last half hour and was thrilled to learn through Rick about the commonalities we have with the Iranian's.
Sandy
Santa Rosa, CA USA 10/30/2009
Thank you Rick
That was a great job, I am an Iranian student studying here in America. Your programme is for sure a solid step toward friendship between Iranian and American people. Cultural activities of this kind will certainly help to get rid of misunderstandings between nations. Thank you very much Rick.
Yazdan <email>
Kearny, NJ USA 10/29/2009
Please make a correction
Hello Rick,
I saw your travel video on tv just now. I am writting to make a correction here. In the end there were some women who sold you a bag of dry fruit. You asked "what is it" they replied "Khurmeni" please note that this was not the word "Khomeini ". the word Khurmeni means dry fruit in general and dried apricots in particular. So when you showed the bill with Mr Khomeini that was actually your misconception. If you have any questions or comments please let me know.
Ehsan Ur-Rehman <email>
Cincinnati, OH USA 10/12/2009
Iran Travel
In November my wife, daughter and I spent 10 days traveling in Iran. I just had to post that the people gave us the most wonderful welcome we have had in any country. It brought tears to my eyes. They were truly wonderful to us and it was a life changing experience. We now have dear friends there that gave us a wonderful evening in their home.
Larry Henry <email>
Vero Beach, Fl. USA 09/13/2009
Documentary
Is there a way to get this documentary on a DVD? I would like to screen it at an event I'm organizing about Iran.
Thanks!
Miguel Armaza <email>
Houston, TX USA 09/09/2009
Thank You
Mr Steves...
Thank you SO MUCH for that enlightening view if Iran. Is SO calmed some area of my soul -- perhaps presented me with a bit of truth and reminded me that people of other nations are more likely to get along with each other than governments are. You're documentary really "un-numbed" a part of my mind.
Thanks again,
Jeff
Jeffrey Cobb <email>
Los Angeles, CA USA 09/09/2009
iran
I just wanted to compliment you on the Iran show which aired last night.
Warm, informative and entertaining it was one of your best.
The best way to prevent wars is to have more people traveling. Good work Rick!
Dave Barrett
Nanaimo, BC USA 08/27/2009
Iran travels
Wonderful show, and very timely for Americans to learn more about this Persian country and people - as distinct from its Islamic government. I hope to visit soon. I learned this year through a DNA geneology test that my roots go back to Iran.
Peter P
Sacramento,, CA USA 08/25/2009
Iran - Don't judge a book my it's cover.
I must say that I was surprised that the Iranian poele said that they actually liked Amiercan people. They seemed like good poeple and not the evil poeple that we have come to see on youtube and news outlets etc. They have a lot of history and taking a trip there would be a pleasure but not for another 100 years until it becomes more Amicercan friendly. I would like to see more talks with our Government. They need to change their poltical views and let more peaceful and not loving. LEt their woman be woman and girls be girls. But maybe I am worng and there needs to be more shows of interest on Iran. this was a wonderful show. Good job Rick!
Bob <email>
Lake Orion, MI USA 08/24/2009
Iran Special
I sure noticed how much control they placed over you and the story. What a shame, but that's how things are there.
Pretty interesting, but I truly missed your footloose style (plus I hope you continue to do the outtakes during the final credits in future episodes!!)
Scott
IN USA 08/24/2009
Iran
Just finished watching it. I am an Iranian and watching this made me want to go and visit all over again! :) Yes.. that's the Iran I grew up in and I know. I am glad someone finally went there and saw it from the people's perspective, not the government's!
Pegah
Los Angeles, CA USA 08/24/2009
Iran Specials
My wife and I just finished watching your second special on Iran. Wonderful. You're doing us all a favor by introducing us to the wonderful people and places of Iran. Thanks, Steve!
Blanchard DeMerchant
O'Fallon, Missou USA 08/18/2009
Iran Conversation
Great show, Rick. Beautiful country, rich history, and very friendly people.
I’m so glad most Iranians don’t believe (or at least didn’t appear to on camera) their government’s demonizing propaganda of America as The Great Satan. I’m somewhat hawkish when it comes to Holocaust deniers and Jew haters (I’m Catholic, btw) running a country (and that means the "real" power in Iran, the hard-liners in the Supreme Council), but I also understand war is not the answer.
To combat messages of institutional, state-driven hate we need more people interaction, not less. Isolating a country by cutting off all diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties just feeds the misunderstanding and hostility that can lead to an outcome nobody really wants. You succeeded a great deal to furthering a better understanding.
Thanks again for a wonderfully insightful program!
Jeff G <email>
Chesterfield, MI USA 08/18/2009
Thanks!
Hello Rick! Thank you so much for this special on Iran. We are so overwhelmed with bad news and prejudice, that we sometimes forget there are normal, wonderful, good people in countries we know so little about, like Iran. You guys did a great job keeping it objective and educational. I would love to visit Iran after seeing your show. I appreciate the fact that because of shows like this, we can learn about people from different cultures and get to be more appreciative and tolerant. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
Elena Viloria <email>
Miami, FL USA 08/17/2009
Iran Trip
Very informative programme, as always.
Travel brings people together for greater understanding, and you achieved this magnificently with the people of Iran.
They share many values and wishes for a good life for their families, just as any European or American.
Mike Terran
Miami, FL USA 08/17/2009
Iran Program
I just watched the Iran show and can't tell you how much I enjoyed it. As an American Baha'i, I have many friends from Iran, both Bahais and Muslims. They are among the warmest, most outgoing people I have ever met, and this is certainly a cultural holdover from the land of their birth or ancestry. They are incredibly hospitable to everyone. Although the Baha'i religion is prohibited in Iran, it is wrong to assume that individuals are in agreement with their government's policies. The media only gives us a negative image of Iran. Thank you for showing the other side.
Kathy Felgran <email>
Watertown, MA USA 08/17/2009
Thank you
Rick Steves & Company,
Thank you for doing the special Iran trip. I learned so much about a place I will probably never get to visit. It was enlightening. I thank you for your hard work to make the trip & the filming a reality. Peace.
Shannon
Chicago, IL USA 08/16/2009
Rick Steves
Rick, thanks for a superb report on Iran. My wife and I just finished watching it last night and we just had to comment. One of my future travels will be to Iran. I have been to Azerbaijan and got to the northern border of the Azeri-Iranian border. Thank you again.
Juan Becerra <email>
Rio Rancho, NM USA 08/08/2009
Iran
Thank you Mr. Steves for such a beautiful portrayal of Iran. I have had the great fortune to have seen Iran three times. Along with my Iranian born husband and two sons we have traveled throughout the country. I have never really been able to describe, through words or photos, to my family here in the US just how beautiful Iran and its people are. Your one hour show has done this for me. Perfectly done Mr. Steves. Thank you.
Birdy
Albuquerque, NM USA 08/07/2009
Music from the show
Where can I find a song list from the show? There is a beautiful santour song near the end that I have heard several times over the years, and yet can't find the name and a recording. Now I know there is one! HELP! :-)
Patricia Lotfi <email>
Clemson, SC USA 08/05/2009
Iran
I lived and worked in Iran during 1977 & 78. Traveled to Sari, Qum, Isphahan, Kerman, Masshad, Sheraz and Quasvin. I learned to love the country and its people and I think Rick Steves has properly characterized the people. Thanks a lot. My wife and i would dearly love to return some day.Tom
Tom Kent <email>
Greer, SC USA 08/04/2009
An American Rock band in Turkey
I have toured my band in Turkey twice and found the people there simply amazing. They are certainly not oppressed as the people of Iran, but they have a very similar culture. They are incredibly hospitable and friendly, and appreciated and LOVED having an American Rock band come and perform for them. We hope to make many similar tours to that part of the world.
Steve Kercher <email>
Boston, MA USA 07/15/2009
Iran
I travelled to Iran back in 1996 when things were supposedly a lot more hardline. Strangely, as an American, I had no problems whatsoever. I took pictures and videos where ever I went and nobody questioned me.I did not have a government minder either. Great scenery, architecture, food, people, culture etc. They just need to work on their hotel chains a little bit.
Arthur <email>
Brookline, MA USA 07/09/2009
not a country i would visit
steves forget to mention the minder that was with him and his crew, watching everything he did and what the iranians had to say. very few people get to photograph the wall outside the u.s. embassy without permission. if you are a solo traveler the revolutionary guards pull you out of line at the airport and demand $5,000 before they let you go on the plane to leave the country. steves didn't mention all the bahais that have been executed by their repressive government. i travel a lot but there is no way i would spend my hard earned money visiting a country controlled by religious perverts.
roger chesney
aurora, il USA 07/06/2009
Tolerance
I just discovered this site and I will return to it ofen. As a lifelong educator, I have dedicated a lot of my energy into just what Rick Steves is trying to do with this site and his PBS Specials. I congratulate him on his efforts. I also believe or rather know that traveling not touring is the best way to open your eyes to a different way to view the world. After 9-11, I posted on a daily basis, on my classroom white board, statements that indicated that the war being waged should be against intolerance, ethnocentrism, american arrogance, and bigotism amoung other themes. I continue to search for ways to educate my countrymen/women that other peoples have different views of how the world is and should be. There is no one right way to approach democracy or life in general. There is no one right religion. In fact all religions or the lack of religion can be perverted. Tolerance and understanding are two of the few truism and absolute that I accept.
David Ludlow <email>
Kannapolis, NC USA 07/06/2009
Iran
Rick,
While your Iran trip "though the front door" was informative, I would like to see you do a follow up series in light of the atrocities of peaceful protesters who are being murdered on the streets.
A Rick Steves' Iran "through the backdoor" (minus your 'official government guide') would yield a much different perspective, that of an Iran which is an authoritative government prone to power, destructive means, and silencing its own people who only seek freedom.
Sam Antonio
San Diego, CA USA 07/04/2009
You did a terrific job
Rick,
Thank you very much for the realistic and impartial depicting of my homeland, Iran.
The world indeed needs more and more of these programs in order to make a fair and accurate judgment over this wonderful nation.Keep going.....
Jamileh
Mashhad,Khorasan, Iran 07/04/2009
Iran
I loved the Iran programs and was so happy to see this really personal view of the Iranian people. I am so sad that the hopes of many of those young people seem to have been dashed in the last few days with the events following the election.
Elaine Waples
HIghland , Indana USA 06/24/2009
Iran
I can't get out of my head your "explanation" that the Iranian right-wingers "don't want their kids to be raised like Britney Spears." They certainly succeeded with Neda Agha-Soltan.
John Purcell
Indianapolis, IN USA 06/23/2009
California Girl's Travels in Iran
I got to hear a little bit of the program on the radio while I was in my car. I went to Iran in the summer of 1999. It was an experience of a lifetime. Everyone thought I was crazy to go there, and the thrill of getting there was half the fun. During my years at architecture school and now, I have been in love with Islamic art, culture and food. Wearing the chador (actually just a black long trench coat, scarf & sun glasses) made me free to walk around without anyone knowing where I was from. I told everyone I was American and they would tell me all sorts of stories about their family or friends in the USA and how much they like Americans. Unlike other Islamic countries that I have traveled through, in Iran I was able to go into all the mosques to sightsee and to take as many pictures as I liked. My favorite place was Isfahan, and it is truly half the world. I cried when I had to leave. One day I hope to return with my family so that they can feel and see how lovely the country is and how friendly Iranian people are. Peace.
Sally Wildasinn-Ward
Seal Beach, CA USA 06/19/2009
video viewing
Last night seventeen members of my bookclub, 'the bibliobabes",(husbands and wives), got together to watch the video.One of the couples is from Iran.They were in tears at the end of the viewing. Following the events of the past weekend,with the questionable election results,there was a lot of discussion about the future of this beautiful country. Thank you for helping us get to know this ancient land and people.
mary donegan <email>
columbia, Md USA 06/15/2009
Iran
Excellent Job Rick. Keep up the good work. I loved it and I purchased the DVD. I hope P.Obama whatches this DVD and starts talking to the goverment of Iran for a better relationship with Iran!
Moe
Iselin, NJ USA 06/11/2009
Monotheistic religions
I believe that Rick Steves owes a correction to his statement about Zoroastrianism being the first monotheistic religion 'that predated Islam by a 1000 years'. What about Judaism? It has been considered the first monotheistic religion and predates Zoroastianism by another 3000 years! Is it Rick Steves way to appease Iranians following the USA 'party line'? Iran looks like a beautiful country, the program is much needed by both of our countries, but the insult to Jewish people is great as well. Please, verify your facts before you make them public! And an apology wouldn't be out of place, either. Takes courage, though.
A Traveller
New Brunswick, NJ USA 06/09/2009
Iran
What a wonderful special! My husband and I enjoyed it immensely because you talked to the people in an open way, you took us inside a home, you honed in on the cultural richness of the country, as well as its beauty and cosmopolitan areas. We need more programs like this to open our minds to the Iranian people. Thank you for helping to facilitate understanding between our country and theirs -
P. Tovey
Chester, NY USA 06/09/2009
Thank you Rick! I am an Iranian Baha'i born in the United States and I have never seen Iran. I loved watching your program and your lecture. It was incredible to see the beauty of the country and the hospitality and friendliness of the people. Thank you also for your comments about the treatment of Baha'is in Iran. I have bought your video to share with friends and neighbors. What a great tool to help people understand the difference between the Iranian people and it's government.
Shaida
USA 06/07/2009
Iran Show
Thank you for doing this show. I loved seeing Iran, and I'm so glad my fellow Americans can see how lovely the Iranian people are. I've had a special place in my heart for Persians ever since I made several Iranian friends while I was in college in the early '70s, and I've been telling people for some time that the information they get from the media about Iran is skewed. Also, I would recommend that everyone try Persian food if they get a chance. It's incredibly delicious!
Stefanie <email>
Tulsa, OK USA 05/31/2009
Great Program!
Up to this point, I caught the last 25 minutes of the show. I think that on the whole it's great. Exactly what we need.
Shows like this allow us to learn about each other. You see people in their houses, etc. You understand more about similarities than about differences.
I have pictures of my mother in a babushka and cloth coat that look no different than the ladies on the street in Tehran (except that the scarves in fashion in Tehran are much prettier than the ones my mom wore, haha!)
First responses. Where can I go in Chicago to get some Iranian/Persian food? What would it cost to take a trip to Iran? Am I prohibited from going there? Will I get in trouble if I spend time talking to students and people in cafes and stuff?
This program is perfect. Exactly what I said when I saw some of the scenes, "perfect." Now I am a big fan of Rick Steves!
Bryan Z.
Chicagoland, IL USA 05/29/2009
iranian vs Persians
some correction:not all iranian are persians. there are Turkes, Kurds, Baloch, Lors and ..and even some Arabs living in different part of iran. they do speak their own languages as well. the official language is Farsi though. so the word iranian is not equal to persians.
Heeva
van, b.c USA 05/26/2009
Iran Tavel Special
This is one of the best travel special I have ever seen. Rick you are great! thanks for bringing us history,and understanding at the same time. By the way my dream life is to see the ruins of Persepolis.
Fernando Vazquez <email>
montgomery, IL USA 05/26/2009
Great job!
As I see, much more people are getting to know the real Iran, thanks to Rick. This is an awesome move to reveal the other side of the coin.
Iran, my motherland, is a real potential heaven that is unfortunately oppressed under the shadow of many things such as war, politics, religion, and so on.
I and many of my friends who live abroad keep trying to let the western people know more about our culture, history and thoughts, though it can't work as well as how the media can affect them.
Anyway, I really appreciate this move towards introducing Iranian culture and history to the world and I'll be definitely open to discuss more if anybody is interested.
Farzad <email>
Gothenburg, V.Gotl Sweden 05/26/2009
Thank you Rick
Thank you Rick to show what we are truly like.
Your programs were so interesting and exciting for me as an Iranian. I really enjoyed these films. I invite all of you to come and visit our country, especially our beautiful city, Neyshabour.
Mostafa <email>
Neyshabour, Khoras Iran 05/25/2009
I learned so much
I enjoyed the beautiful film on Iran. I think that this film is a wonderful step towards reconciliation and understanding between the US and Iran. I also must say that seeing the beauty of Iran really made me want to visit. The countryside, the cities, the waterways are all so beautiful. I learned so much and realized how little I knew about Iran and its history. I also realized that in high school, while I learned a lot about the Persian Empire, I was never taught that Persia and Iran were the same. I only learned Persia as an ancient, by gone culture. Thank you for educating all of us. Where there is understanding, fear is eradicated.
Many thanks!
Joi
San Diego, CA USA 05/22/2009
Lahijan
Dear Rick,
As an Iranian, I really enjoyed to watch your documentary and interviews.
Since, I am from north Iran, Gilan/Lahijan, I would like to invite you for an on-line tour to my hometown, lahidjan and Guilan. http://www.ece.ubc.ca/~yasserp/Guilan/ With best regards and take care.
Nasser
Sunnyvale, Califo USA 05/19/2009
Iran Special
I saw your Iran program. What a gift. I am so intrigued by the people and the country. I had forgotten all about the historical significance of Iran. Both the country and the Iranian people are enigmatic and beautifu.
Linda Smythe
Frederick, MD USA 05/16/2009
Beautiful Iran
As an Iranian/American who has not been back home for past 27 years, I greatly appreciated the program you had on my country. This was the first time that the reall beauty of Iran as a country and Iranian people was broadcasted. I was proud to watch the program with my 4 years old son. He now wants to go back home with me and see his "familez". Again thank you for bringing tears of joy to our eyes.
Dokhtar Irani <email>
Chicago, IL USA 05/16/2009
Thank you!
I've seen it twice, and it really touched me, but was not surprising. If you have traveled to another country you know that people anywhere and everywhere all want the same thing. Peace, love, hope, family, security, a good, meaningful life. This is what I saw in this episode. This episode was wonderful Rick!! Thank you!! More Americans need to see things like this!
Nicole Vielleux <email>
Milwaukee, WI USA 05/14/2009
Traditional Music
Thank you Rick to show that Iranians are people, too. Politics is politics. Iranians are the last people to get carried away by politics. The media here shows a very small spectrum of Iranians and their opinions!!Hope you enjoy this traditional music:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qgLHX4URJZE
Amir <email>
Athens, GA USA 05/13/2009
Job Well Done, Rick!
I had seen several other documentaries in about Iran in the past but I found your documentary fascinating because it portrays a beautiful country, even when it shows the rural areas or the things that are Iran's weak points. Talking about Glass Half Full!..
I agree that Iranian government has to do a lot more to become a respeced part of the world community but programs like yours are truely a step in the right direction and would help such progress.
Thank you, Sir
Amir
Laguna Niguel, CA USA 05/12/2009
Beauty of Iran
Breathtaking beauty of Iran:
http://picasaweb.google.com/royabarrette/IranNature#
Max
Irvine, CA USA 05/11/2009
Response to Rick's Iran piece
I just viewed the video on Iran and heard the interview with Sayed, the translator. It added to my understanding of Iran and her people. It seems like a simple (superficial? Preliminary?) introduction to a land and people with a great legacy as a powerful empire, now wanting respect from others, including the USA.
I hope there are gifted leaders who seek greater understanding a patient persistence in tracking down the ways we have offended against each other (USA and Iran) and coming to allow each other's separate existence. Our influence there has been problematic (and that's putting it mildly, when you consider how we supported the corrupt Shah Pahlavi, and deposed a democratically elected leader before that).
So, our hands are not completely "clean", although we tend to forget that about the history between us. Thank you Rick Steve for this record of your visit. John
John Kleinheksel <email>
Holland,, MI USA 05/11/2009
A small mistake about Iran's Geography
I really liked the documentary you published about Iran. It displayed a fair image of Iran (exactly as you had seen it).
But in the movie you have said Iran is plateau; in fact you have just had your journey in the central plateau of Iran.
The truth is that Iran also has some very high mountains; the following is a short description about Iran's geography as described in wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geography_of_Iran)
Iran consists of rugged, mountainous rims surrounding high interior basins. The main mountain chain is the Zagros Mountains, a series of parallel ridges interspersed with plains that bisect the country from northwest to southeast. Many peaks in the Zagros exceed 3,000 meters above sea level, and in the south-central region of the country there are at least five peaks that are over 4,000 meters. As the Zagros continue into southeastern Iran, the average elevation of the peaks declines dramatically to under 1,500 meters. Rimming the Caspian Sea littoral is another chain of mountains, the narrow but high Alborz Mountains. Volcanic Mount Damavand (5 610 m), located in the center of the Alborz, is not only the country's highest peak but also the highest mountain on the Eurasian landmass west of the Hindu Kush.
The center of Iran consists of several closed basins that collectively are referred to as the Central Plateau. The average elevation of this plateau is about 900 meters, but several of the mountains that tower over the plateau exceed 3,000 meters. The eastern part of the plateau is covered by two salt deserts, the Dasht-e Kavir(Great Salt Desert) and the Dasht-e Lut. Except for some scattered oases, these deserts are uninhabited.
Mohammad Amiry <email>
Tehran, Tehran IRAN 05/11/2009
Beauty of Iran
Beauty of Iran captured by an Italian professor.
http://venus.unive.it/riccardozipoli/demo/galleries_collections.php?a=26&n=1&d=IRAN&pagine=1&paginazione=
Max
Irvine, CA USA 05/11/2009
Iran
Thank you ,Rick, for the fine insight to Iran.I was surprised to see the culture----present time and the past.It wasn't what I expected it would be---the people seem happier than I imagined.
I liked their "slogan"--- something about peace to you!Wouldn't that be wonderful if it comes to pass.
USA 05/09/2009
Iran
In Mississippi in 1977 I was in the US Air Force training young Iranians to fly. There were approximately 50 of these fine young men, plus their wives and children. After the Shah was deposed, these fine young men were offered the opportunity to stay in the US rather than return to Iran. They all choose to return to Iran, along with their families. Because they were supporters of the Shah, we suspect they were murdered upon their return by the thug regime that’s still in power. We never heard from any of them again. And today this regime wants to destroy Israel. With his non-judgmental squishy program on Iran, Mr. Steves has become an enabler. I wonder what kind of touchy-feely travel program he would have narrated in Nazi Germany. Would he have given both sides of the argument following Kristallnacht in 1938?
Kenneth
Kopke, VA USA 05/09/2009
Spot on!
I just returned home after three weeks in Iran leading my first tour of the country. Being a first-time visitor and the tour leader can be a nerve-wracking experience, but I watched your program several times before I left and felt very well-prepared for having done so. Part of me suspected that the locals might have put it on a bit more because of the presence of a TV crew, but we were just ordinary folks (all Americans) and we got the same reception. What a beautiful country full of warm and welcoming people! I can't wait to go back to Iran!
Devin Mitchell <email>
Glasgow, Scotland 04/29/2009
I really enjoyed watching this. I am a British expatriate living in the United Arab Emirates, and although I haven't been to Iran, I have met alot of lovely Iranians here in the UAE. They really are a very warm and friendly people, not at all how they are portrayed in the Western media.
Sara
Sharjah, UAE 04/29/2009
Viewing the Iran CD
Our weekly book study group viewed and discussed the Iran program last evening. Thank you for doing this. In a somewhat chaotic world, we need more people like you to help bring some understanding between peoples.
Chuck Jenkins <email>
Columbus, OH USA 04/22/2009
Iran Show
Rick, your Iran show and learning packet moves you from entertainment host to cultural interlocuter. From travel leader to thought leader. From journalist to teacher. You've challenged the old paradigm of us vs them and showed that there is a lot of us in them. There's a lot to worry about with the politics and social perspectives of this country, but you've now shown us that Iran is at least approachable on a person-to-person basis, and isn't that where understanding begins? When fear slackens, connection happens. Brilliant move and product. I'm going to use it in my college class on critical thinking. Thanks.
Frank
Dumont, NJ USA 04/20/2009
Great video without typical Jewish slant
What a great documentary on Iran! I get so tired "learning" about other countries from watching or reading books made in this country due to the pre-determined angles deemed appropriate by our zionist media. Although I'm as apple pie as one gets (genealogy traces to George Washington) I learned long ago you usually have to form opinions of other countries from information gathered outside of the US. If you take the daily dose of what we get served up, you'd believe 90% of the worlds population is trying to kill American Christians and that we must stay focused to take them out first...! I hope Rick Steves and his publishing crew can continue to make these refreshing documentaries.
SM
MiamI, FL USA 04/14/2009
A perspective on Iran
Dear Mr. Steves,
As an Iranian-American I loved your show. I just listened to your talk "A Perspective on Iran". The world needs more people like you who realize that we need to stop dehumanizing others and we are all children of god. Thank you for your open mindedness and for opening up other people's minds.
Regards,
Azita
Azita Tajaddini <email>
NJ USA 04/13/2009
Great Job
Great job for such a short visit. I find you were still effected by American Propaganda subconsciously, but did a much better job of neutrality than most other documentaries.
btw . . . contrary to many deceiving comments claiming the majority of iranians are against their government, surveys have consistently shown this is not the case, and the vast majority of iranians support the revolution and want government reform, not regime change.
Ali
Irvine, CA USA 04/13/2009
Excellent program
I DVR'd the Iran program and found time to watch it last night. I found it wonderful and was very impressed. As an American who lived in Saudia Arabia from 1978-79, it was so neat to see the 'real' Iran. I love the Middle East and have had the opportunity to travel to Israel and Turkey also. I truly hope to take my family to Iran one day. Thank you for your excellent travel programs and commentary. You represented the U.S. and Iran well.
Susan
Orem, UT USA 04/09/2009
Oh the memories of Iran!
Having lived in Iran in the 70's, I was moved beyond words watching your video. You have presented the people and culture so beautifully. Visitors were always considered 'gifts' and I was treated so well by Iranians. For many years, I have wondered what life would be like now in Iran; if historical sites were being maintained; if the people still had smiles on their faces. Thank you for answering those questions for me. I smiled seeing that the art of face makeup- an art that Persian woman are masters of- still exists! I nearly went back to Iran last year; that trip got postponed. Now I can share the video with others before I do go back one day. It will make them less frightened.
ps. Do Elders still have 'permission' to do opium because they 'deserve their dreams"?
Janet Whitehead
Kamloops, BC Canada 04/08/2009
IRAN
great show - I only got half. It looks a lot like Arizona. I would like to visit a family home, not to insult their culture but to see how it works for the women.
Carol coulter <email>
phoenix, az USA 04/07/2009
Iran Travel Special
Just an aside...watching this fascinating special reminded me of the days of Soviet "glasnost" (spurred, in large part, by the people to people movement called "Peace Child").
Sometimes, governments can't represent their people as well as the people themselves.
Thanks, Rick!
Mary Ellen Monson <email>
York, PA USA 04/04/2009
Iran
Hi Rick,
The show was amazing. I realy enjoyed watching it with my husband, especialy, i am persian and my husband is American. I grow up in Germany and met my husband, when he was staioned in Germany in the us Army. He was very suprised about everything he saw in the show. I knows alot about Iran but it was actually nice for him to see it. I was very happy, that you showed sides of Esfahan, because that the city i was born. I was also happy, that my husband could see apart of the city that i was born in. Thank you for the great show.
Jeiran <email>
Mechanicsburg, PA USA 04/04/2009
Rick Steves' Iran
Thank you Rick for providing great insights and understanding of Iran and its most gracious people. I know your film will be a great help to all people who are desiring to promote peace,love & harmony in this world we have been born into.
Susie <email>
Sandy, UT USA 04/04/2009
Eleven people in Iran - nine of them women - are waiting to be stoned to death on charges of adultery. Many have been sentenced after grossly unfair trials. Amnesty International has called on the country's authorities to immediately abolish this grotesque punishment, which is specifically designed to increase the suffering of its victims.
Iran's Penal Code prescribes execution by stoning as the penalty for adultery by married persons. It even dictates that the stones are large enough to cause pain, but not so large as to kill the victim immediately. Amnesty International is calling for urgent changes to Iranian law to ensure that no one can be sentenced to death for adultery, whether by stoning or any other means.
VA USA 04/02/2009
getting know Iran
Hi Rick
That was great ,and realy fair and realistic picture of Iran .hope hear and see more of you .
Reza
LA, CA USA 04/01/2009
Iran
That show was so amazing! Rick Steves went from a great travel show host to a great ambassador of peace. I laughed; I cried; I was so moved by the program. I now want to go to Iran.
Teri McCarthy <email>
Kansas City , KS USA 04/01/2009
According to the United Nations, a child is a person under the age of 18. Despite the fact that the government of Iran has signed International Covenants that forbid them to execute anyone who has allegedly committed an offence before the age of 18, they continue to do so. Amnesty International has documented 26 executions of child offenders in Iran since 2005. In many cases, these minors have been imprisoned until the age of 18 and then executed. Currently, there are at least 134 minors on death row in Iran.
VA USA 04/01/2009
Thanking You
Dear rick my name is nader and I am in India with my family I had seen your Beutiful video and Gallery about Iran. I am Thanking you for showing Our Country to the world and I hope To see You one more time in Iran . I wish for you all the Best .
nader <email>
pune, mahara india/Iran 03/31/2009
Some 300,000 Baha’is live throughout Iran, making the Baha’i Faith the country’s largest minority religion. Baha’is have been targets of discrimination and violence in Iran since the religion began there in the mid-nineteenth century. More than 200 Baha’is were killed in Iran between 1978 and 1998, the majority by execution, and thousands more were imprisoned. Today the Iranian government regards Baha’is as apostates and “unprotected infidels.”
http://iran.bahai.us/overview/
USA 03/31/2009
More communication between Iran and US needed
As an Iranian living in Iran, I very much appreciate your great work Rick, and I think this is the right way to bring more understanding between our two nations.
But I think we can go further and build mutual understanding between our governments and even between the more extreme members of our societies (e.g. neo-conservatives vs. islamists). I think even they have a human sense inside them, and it can be nurtured through being exposed to the other side's viewpoints and human part. I think this is the key to a lasting peace, and we as people can facilitate this dialogue between our governments and our powerful persons.
Journalists from both sides can do this by going to the officials and other influential people of the other country and try to bring them out of a us-vs-them viewpoint, showing them what the other side thinks and persuading them to understand the other side's concerns. e.g. Rick could sit with the cleric at the Imam Mosque and talk on similarities and issues between Christianity and Islam. This kind of engagement can have miraculous effects on our relations, and can bring us to a real friendship at all levels. Also it would be great if Iranian journalists were allowed into the US.
What we need is more and more communication between the various parties of our two countries.
Mohammad <email>
Tehran, Iran 03/30/2009
Itan History
Thank you Rick. Here is a link to "The seven faces of Persian civilization" You'll love this!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IxzX7UrIqU4
Amir <email>
Athens, GA USA 03/29/2009
“Rick Steves’ Iran” is fascinating!
“Rick Steves’ Iran” is fascinating!
Thank you, Rick S. and crew, for this eye-opening experience.
Rick K.
Fox Valley area, WI USA 03/28/2009
Quality Schools
Watch the following 1min video. It'll sure surprise you.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s957W6jomBc
Mohammad
Irvine, CA USA 03/28/2009
Iran
Great program, Rick. Let's hope we can all meet on more friendly terms with our new, more open minded president. Thank you for showing the Iranian people as wondeful human beings.
William Roberts <email>
Gilmanton, NH USA 03/28/2009
Great Show!
I was lucky to catch part of Rick's Iran show on CSpan and was impressed.
Mr. Steves showed an unbiased view of a country full of warm and generous people and not the blood-thirsty psychos portrayed by FOX.
Thank you for a beautiful show that let us see that Iranians are a friendly people, who desire American friendship.
Now if only 60 million or so Americans could see this, we might not be "shocking and awing" Iran in the near future.
Greg Bacon
Ava, MO USA 03/28/2009
Iran
The country is beautiful and modern. I expected something dark. The women are beautiful and so many smiles on everyone. President Obama needs to view this. We need to be friends, to at least talk. Wonderful show.
Donna Noonkester
Roanoke, va USA 03/28/2009
Love the show!
HI,
I am Iranian/Canadian and recently married an American man. I have been telling him for years that he would love visiting Iran and the people there love Americans. He didn't really believe me till we watched your show. It was definitely an eye opening experience for him. He now is encouraged to visit Iran in a positive manner! Once we found out when the show was airing again My husband told everyone he knew to watch it so that it would change their view towards Iran as well!
I truely thank you for doing this show to educate those who are "brainwashed" by the media and need a different view towards people.
I hope this show is going to be airing a lot more often so everyone can be able to see it!
Rick Steves I wish you the best and once again,Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!
Tina
Seattle, WA USA 03/27/2009
Iran
Wow! I have loved your show for years and now you have moved beyond my expectations. By sharing facts and knowledge about real people who live in a place so far away and unknown to many Americans, like me, you are spreading world peace! It seems simple, to understand others, can help us become friends. It makes me sad to hear the point of view of so many closed-minded people the majority of the time. Your open-minded view point is refreshingly, lovely. Iran is a beautiful place, full of many beautiful people. Huh, just like many other places our Earth offers...
Traci
Hollister, MO USA 03/26/2009
Nations of Love
Something that I just realized watching Rick’s edition on Iran was that, in Iran like here in the US, base of all the social interactions as the schools and home teach you is love, affection, and compassion. The donations and giving is a tradition that you grow up with. You never get exposed to feeling of hatred towards anyone and anything including the West. I would say what you learn is more of admiration of the western science and technology, and then mutual respect.
Max
Newport Beach, CA USA 03/26/2009
Iran
I wonder if your program on Iran is an attempt to help prevent a U.S. and/or Israeli attack on that country. Whether or not it is, I hope it has that effect!
Joanne
Columbia, MD USA 03/25/2009
Trying to Clarify
I lived half of my life in Iran. I want to point out couple of things that may clarify some of misconceptions around the issue of Iran.
1. When Ahmadinejad said he wanted to wipe out Israel. What you should bring to the context to understand what it meant is that in Iran Israel is not recognized as a country. It is not as if someone over here talks about Israel, in which people are residing. My experience of hearing these sorts of rhetoric for many years, tells me that what it means is the “Zionist System” which they find unfair. That is not even pointed at Israeli leaders.
2. This is to respond to Penelope who wrote the third comment from the top. I understand her concern, but I want to point out this. This guy is not Iranian. He is not only Arab; he belongs to a belief which is considered the most radical Sunni Islam which just exists in Saudi Arabia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wahhabi). These guys do not even consider Iran a Muslim country and more of infidels, let alone the rest of the world. Believe it or not the image of the US in the Mideast has shaped more in human level. This makes Rick’s effort extremely important. They will not be favored by their listeners if Western governments do not do unwise moves in the Middle East. Not to mention that many of the actions which are done to undermine West in Middle East are considered in their minds as reactions to Western historic bad treatment of that region. So let’s not give them more justifications for destruction with some constructive moves.
Max
Newport Beach, CA USA 03/25/2009
Iran
I watched Rick Steves Iran with great interest; I used to live in Tehran from '75-'77. I found Iran and the Iranian people to be extremely friendly and helpful. I was in high school at the time and it was the greatest time I ever had! Seeing the video brought back many wonderful memories of the bazaars and shops and the food! I would love to go back someday and mix with the Iranian people someday. Thank you Rick!
Michael Beckwith <email>
Hoquiam, Wa USA 03/23/2009
American People Are Great!
It was very hard for me to stop my tears. The comments by American people were moving, too. I love American people. I feel Americans are so close to us. I find American people very fair people, despite all the bad things occurred in governments. IT IS THE GOVERNMENTS' JOBS TO UNDERSTAND THEIR PEOPLE, NOT THE OTHER WAY AROUND. AND THAT GOES FOR BOTH COUNTRIES. Rick, you make me love Americans more than before.
Amir <email>
Athens, GA USA 03/22/2009
Question
Hello. I saw the full documentary on television, and as I am pleased with your worldly and generous and ideal depiction of what could be with our nations, I wonder when, some mosques in the arab world are producing the following (please see link), how you can continue to believe that it is possible?
http://www.tangle.com/view_video.php?viewkey=0861ff3eabea1ceb73e4
Penelope
East Coast, SC USA 03/22/2009
Iran
I was VERY disappointed to see Rick in IRAN.
This is a country that denies the Holicost and has publicly stated that it is for the distruction of Israel
Guy
columbia, MD USA 03/22/2009
Iran and Jews!
Just to state some facts:
1. Iran has more jews living in it than any other middleastern nation after Israel.
2. Even in the most critical days of 1979, and problems with Israel, Khomeini asserted that jewish iranians are just like any other citizens and have rights (check BBC on that)
3. If you are a jew in iran, you are not held liable for drinking alcohol in your privacy but as a muslem, you are! (again BBC, youtube)
4. Never NOT EVEN A SINGLE TIME has there been any anti-semetic act done in Iran throughout the long history till now (BBC!)
5. Cyrus the great (founder of persian empire) freed the jews from babylon and did other services to them (The old testament!) and persians are proud of him and love him.
6.Ahmadinejan who I do not favor much did not deny the Holocaust (www.therealnews.com!)
7. Jews have a seat in the parliment of Iran.
8. Jews or christians might not be able to get to powerful positions, but let me tell you this, if you think I can get to a powerful position in Iran without knowing people and connections, you are very optimistic, and I am a practicing shiite muslim.
IRAN-US-ISRAEL-PALESTINE is not an anti-semetic issue. This is what happens when we look at middleast through European mindset.
9. Many part of Quran (the holy muslim scripture) is filled with stories about Moses and other jewish prophets (Quran!)
10. Iranian jews settled in iran more than 2000 years ago, which make them probably even more Iranian than me!
and ten, I have several jewish friends (good ones) and I believe they are extremely smart and understanding because they had many suffering in their lives and I respect that.
Iranians do not hate Jews.
Amir <email>
Athens, GA USA 03/22/2009
Iran
I was blown away by how beautiful Iran is. I really had no idea.
Éireen <email>
Phoenix, AZ USA 03/20/2009
Iran
Thank you Rick Steves for presenting a fabulous show on Iran. I think it should be mandatory viewing to all of Congress. What beautiful people.
Christa <email>
Seattle, WA USA 03/20/2009
Persepolis
Thanks Rick for these videos. I've been wanting to see Iran for a while and now more than ever.
I've just finished watching your 7th podcast of Iran and having been interested in archaeology for some time was fascinated with Persepolis. The 72 columns of the palace jumped out at me as I had not realised it had 72 columns. 72 is a very special number in ancient architecture. It is one fifth of a circle or the angle of a pentagram. More than this it is found in many ancient cultures as in 72 years precession of the equinox travels 1 degree and 30 x 72 = 2160 years or one eon. Now I really must go as it is obvious that the palace has been encoded astronomically.
Rob T-P <email>
Bridgend, Glam Wales, UK 03/19/2009
IRAN
It was so WONDERFUL to SEE Iran . . .
Mr. Steves Mahalo Nui for showcasing & introducing "US" to "THEM".
Iran how fair & ancient you are . . . A land that we should certainly leave in Peace . . .
Please forgive Us for NOT knowing the TRUTH of who you are . . . It was such a great pleasure to see The Beautiful Mosaic of You All in the Light.
Aloha from Hawaii to ALL of You in Iran.
God Bless
Robert . . .
Robert Sablan <email>
Honolulu, Hi USA 03/18/2009
rick steves'iran
bravo,mr rick steves, thank you for your wonderful work of showing us the beauty of Iranian people and their country.i hope the more people from different cultures understanding other's fears and love the more peaceful our world become.please,keep up your positive work.
loc tran <email>
toronto, ont USA 03/16/2009
The Bahai in Iran
The followers of most religions were persecuted at some point in the history of that religion - due to various reasons but mostly ignorance and prejudice. The treatment of the Baha'is in Iran is 'the' greatest stain on an otherwise beautiful culture. The persians will realize this sometime in the future but the longer it takes, the more damage will be done. It is easy to say that the Baha'is are mistreated because their religion is a "fake" but remember that early Jews, Christians and Muslims were persecuted by those who did not believe in their religions and considered them fakes. History repeats itself. This is your opportunity to right a wrong.
Ray
Ray R
LA, CA USA 03/15/2009
Just sth about Baha'i faith in Iran
Firstly, I should say a big "thank u" to Rick for his fabulous work.
U know, Muslims, Christians, Jews and Zoroastrians have got prophets sent by God. Muslims believe that Baha'i faith is a FAKE religion and just an ordinary guy claimed that he was a prophet. Iran do care that FAKE beliefs are not to be spread and taught in the country. Accordingly, a Baha'i who is living his/her own life is like any other Iranian citizen; but when it comes that a Baha'i is gonna spread his/her faith and beliefs in society which are considered FAKE by Muslims, then he/she will be stopped.
As mentioned before, a Baha'i is not sentenced or set to leave the country or punished as long as he/she does not try to broaden their beliefs to the society.
Just to be honest, I should say that Baha'i s cannot take up some few specific jobs in islamic Iran like: barber, restaurant, bakery and things like that due to some islamic rules.
Sorry for writing long.
Farshad <email>
Tehran, Iran 03/14/2009
Iran Conversation
I came upon the broadcast completely by surprise and was very pleased. We need to view our planetary neighbors in all their contexts. The views of the citizens, their landmarks and ways help to put a human face on this remote country. A very thoughtful and non-political broadcast.
Grace
SC USA 03/14/2009
Iran
Dear Rick Steve, I have always watched your shows and admired your work but this time I am so apprecitive of you for doing some thing so courages that has never done beofore and clearing the air for Iranian's true identies. I hope this show will open lots of eyes all over the world especially in USA.
Parvaneh
Seattle, WA USA 03/13/2009
Incredible 'other side' view
I really appreciate the side that almost never gets shown on the news and media. The side of the Iranian people and not the government for once. Very beautiful portray of Iran and its people and thanks for clearing many misunderstandings that poeple have in the West since they have no idea what it's like there.
Kamyar
Vancouver, BC Canada 03/11/2009
Thank you
THANK YOU so much for a great program and for showing the human face of Iran. I've never heard somebody talk about Muslim cultures with such profound understanding, whether it was a negative or a positive view. I am a Muslim woman living in the US for a few years and for the first time I agreed with everything a program on US TV said about a Muslim country! I believe it's through programs like these that American people will be able to see the Muslim people and not the corrupt and power-hungry politicians. It's the only way to isolate those whose goal is to oppress anybody who thinks differently. Most Muslims do want a peaceful and prosperous life and it’s unfair that they are all viewed as violent and fanatics. Your program made that distinction and for that THANK YOU!
Amina Swanson
Renton, WA USA 03/11/2009
Thank you :)
Thank you, it was the only TV show that I've seen in ages that told the truth about Iran. It was short I wish you could have stayed more. It brought lots of wonderful memories to me :):):)
Niusha
Vancouver, Canada 03/11/2009
Thanks for a GREAT program!
In most of the 1970s I lived in Iran and Afghanistan as an American working on various aid and technical assistance programs. There is a special place in my heart for those people, and you have brought back many fond memories. In fact Rick, I'd say you have done more for Iranian-American relations than anyone in Washington in the past thirty years. Keep up the good work!
Ken <email>
Charlotte, NC USA 03/09/2009
Unity
Rick,
Very well done!
You and your camera crew gifted us smile and warm hearth. Most often I get the comment that I am French Quebec then after introducing my ethnicity most of them with a warm smile tell me “oh, I watched Rick Steves recent trip” so feels like they already know me.
There are so many aspects that you pointed out but the unique feature of your story is honestly demonstrating the unity, humanity and love in spite of wrong messages that have been bombard us all over the world
Parastu <email>
Seattle, WA USA 03/09/2009
Iran Trip
I loved your Iran episode. Much of what is missing as far as the modern Iran was presented to the US. However, I was disappointed in your comments about the religions that are government tolerated. I have worked with many Baha'i and Christian refugees from who fled because of their faith. If they were to return they would be imprisoned. Your statement that Jews are tolerated (in your group statement about religion) is ridiculous.
It would be very good if you would confirm what you have found that was negative about this government controlled society. Surely this is not the end comments on your visit?
Mark
Santa Cruz, CA USA 03/08/2009
Thank You so much
Thank You very much for making such great video about Iran. There are many videos about Iran, however, your video is the best for many reasons inter alia: 1- Your perfect personality & Professionalism in reporting the fact with respect toward other people believe & thought. The tone of your voice & your body signs all indicating your honesty & humanity. 2- Although this video is not made to be "funny" however from start to end I could not stop myself from great joy & loud laugh in many parts, as your conducts were 100% sincere & pure. 3- All facts that you have disclosed were complete contrary to many other misrepresentations. 4- The most important part is that in the end of video you will find millions "friends' like me around the world, as you are really a wonderful person like most of American People.
MAJOR KEYVAN NOURHAGHIGHI
SENIOR FIGHTER PILOT
Toronto, Canada
Major Keyvan Nourhaghighi <email>
Toronto, Ontari USA 03/08/2009
Iran
I am visiting Iran in October and found your journal enlightening. I no longer to travel to visit cathedrals, castles or flowing rivers. I too prefer the people of differnt cultures to guide my way through their country.
Thank you
Betty Mellor <email>
Garnet Valley, PA USA 03/07/2009
Iran DVD
Rick, I want to thank you for making the Iran video available to everyone. I just read the March email newsletter and will order a DVD and have forwarded the email to a ton of people. What a fantastic idea! Thank you for spreading the word. Education is the best "weapon" we have.
Coleen Magrath <email>
Rockport, MA USA 03/07/2009
Rick - you are a courageous man with a noble goal. I heard you speak in SF recently about the Iran special. Whether folks agree with the policies of Iran's government or not, there's no denying that Iran is an ancient culture with a beautiful history of literature, art, music and mysticism. Iranians are some of the most hospitable and friendly people you'll meet. Your efforts to put a human face on what must be one of the most misunderstood cultures today were honorable and couldn't be more timely. Iran's 70 million people deserve to live in peace and be free of threats of war by other nations. Thank you!
Azita S.
San Francisco, CA USA 03/07/2009
link to another one
Dear Mr. Steves,
Thank you for your effort for explain my beautiful Iran to everyone... i want link your page to another Iranian magazine in internet please send me a web address for the best link to your site. God bless you . my email aliuwa76@yahoo.com. thank a lot. ALI
ALI <email>
Perth, wa AUS 03/07/2009
Baha'i Persecution in Iran
I have watched your shows for years and I have happily and eagerly used your information for travel abroad. I also looked forward to your unique take on the complicated people of Iran.
I am so very unhappy with your belittling of the Baha'i situation in Iran. Baha'i should not have to leave the country of their families and forefathers just because they do not practice the state approved religion. Would that it was that easy. My sister-in-law and her family were imprisoned when they tried to escape (yes, it is escape, leaving isn't that easy for Baha'is) in the late 1980's. After a long imprisonment, separated from her husband and two young sons, she was released. We still don't know why. They successfully escaped a few years later. The President and government of Iran openly target and persecute the Baha'is, a faith that holds the unity and oneness of mankind as a guiding principle. They are routinely accused of being spies for Zion (Isreal) because our holiest places and the adminstrative center of our faith is in Isreal. Why is that? Because the founder of our faith, Baha-u-llah, was exiled there by the Persian and Ottoman governments.
I know and appreciate the beauty and generousity of Persian people. They have been my family since I married my Persian husband almost 23 years ago. But, please, think about what you are presenting. I know there were many nice German people, but they still allowed the Holocast and we look back and can't imagine why they did. Until the people of Iran stand up and refuse to go along with state sponsored annihilation of innocent people, I find it hard to watch such a positive spin being put on their beliefs.
And to suggest that they just leave, shame on you Mr. Steves. I thought you were more enlightened than that.
Valerie <email>
Exeter, CA USA 03/05/2009
Iran
Dear Mr. Steves,
Thank you for covering a rather intimidating subject for most Americans.
I appreciate your sense of curiosity and courage to discover an ancient culture rich in diversity and a strong sense of community. Contrary to recent past, historically, Iran/Persia was an amalgam of different peoples, be it religious, racial, or ethnic. Yet today unfortunately Iran is a mere figment of her former glory. What you discovered during your travels to Iran is the contradiction of her past. But Iran and Iranians will once again rise from the ashes of her recent history.
Regards,
Hamid
Hamid
Chicago, IL USA 03/04/2009
As an Iranian, I would say you actually did a great job.
Sahar
Ottawa, On Canada 03/02/2009
Iran
Rick My wife and I visited Iran last year and observed as you did the friendliness of the Iranian people.Did you visit the wonderful place to have tea in Esfahan under the pedestrian bridge? Esfahan was our favorite stop.
Jeff Galupo <email>
Absecon , NJ USA 03/02/2009
Dictatorship not a Theocracy - But we want Democracy
Thanks for speaking for peace and love of humanity.
I am an Iranian. Many of your comments are OK, except for the parts that say that we have chosen theocracy.
We have not. We wanted democracy but we were deceived by the regime. In 1979, when the former king left iran and the Islamic party gained power, they promised every one that they will be free.
We have a dictatorship that more than 70% of people don't want and we are fond of separation of religion from the states too!
-
-, - USA 03/02/2009
I think it was awesome. You spoke the truth about what you saw unlike other people who lie to get Americans to hate us. I am not iranian but i am muslim.
usama tahir
st.louis, m.o USA 03/02/2009
Rev. Bob Ove
Hello Rev. Bob Ove,
It’s nice to hear from a holy man at least from a Christian’s sect. This would be a perfect conversation/communication for all those who may believe in a SUPREM FORCE (GOD), but don’t believe in it, especially the Judisim/Christanity/Islam.. Who else can lead without judgment??
Iraj
San jose, CA USA 03/02/2009
Farsi Poem
Can you please tell cite the source of this poem, read by the woman in Scene 101:
The links of the beloved's hair form a chain of suffering the man, not thus bound, remains unaware of this tale. As for myself, strike me by the sword in her full view a sidelong glance from those eyes will full ransom make. And should I give up life in pursuit of her favor no pity at all; I love the beloved more than my life…
It's a beautiful poem, and I'd like to know where it came from. Thanks.
Mandy <email>
San Francisco, CA USA 03/01/2009
Does Rick really believe what he is saying?
I looked at Rick's presentation at the Commonwealth Club:
http://fora.tv/2009/01/26/Rick_Steves_A_Perspective_on_Iran#chapter_27
I was astonished at the naivety and unthinking nature of his comments on the Baha'is of Iran. He says, that if they want to be Baha'is, they have to leave Iran (it is not true as he says that they just need not to publicly worship as Baha'is - they have been doing that since 1979 and are still persecuted). How would he feel if someone said to him that if you are going to be a blond man of Norwegian extraction then you need to leave the USA? How would Americans have reacted if his comments was transposed to: if you are a Jew/Black/Hispanic you need to leave the USA? That is what he is saying in this film and I am surprised by it. And that is not even going on to the thousands of other human beings in Iran who are having their human rights trampled on by this regime. His Iranian government minder obviously did a good job.
Behyar Nikandish <email>
Nashville, TN USA 02/28/2009
Best docco ever!
Simply breath taking! I enjoyed every moment of your documentary, and i'm so glad that you can show the real side of iran that unfortunately not many american and/or westerners know about. I am an Iranian, born and raised in Germany, and living in Australia for the past 8 years. I have never been to iran, and this documentary just opened my eyes even more! Thank you so much Rick, for your time on this wonderful documentary that rose an awareness to many.
Thank you again
P.s. Your awesome!
Milad Dolatabadi
Perth, WA USA 02/28/2009
We are also human beings
Mate Iranian are having wrong goverment in a wrong time otherwise we are human beings like any other country in this world. I hope one day all these conflicts end, in Iran, in Palestine, Afganestan, Iraq and North Korea so we can live in a peaceful world but this depends on western goverments like England, America, Germany, France and even Israeal as well.
We are no monsters just ordinary people who struggle to have a better life.
Hooman <email>
Melbourne, VIC Australia 02/28/2009
Great Work
The work was great;
I live in Iran but I realized a lot of facts about my country that I did not know untill today;
Many of people here does not like living in Iran, but I think our busy lives caused us not to see the beautiness of our country; to be honest, I've never looked my country from this point of view; I am proud to be an Iranian.
Ehsan.R <email>
Tehran, Iran 02/27/2009
Great work, but ...
Rick,
Thanks for the program. I, as an Iranian living un US, usually have dificulties explaining to American people that Iran is not a dessert or we do not ride camels over there. ;)
One point that came to my mind was that almost all the women in your report were those with "chador". I understand that goverment had set someone as a guide for you. So I guess you did not have the option of talking to more avarage/liberal woman. I was wishing to hear you mentioning something about it, but didn't happen.
Great work by the way.
Aram
San Diego, CA USA 02/27/2009
Rick Steves’ Iran
Great job Rick!
As an Iranian in Sweden I appreciate your thought and job. But it would be even better if you had travel to North of Iran(Green Area) and also to Kish Island, beautiful Island in Persian Gulf. Because mostly you showed deserts and non green lands in your show.
That's a pity!!!
Hamid
Gothenburg, Sweden 02/27/2009
Fairest picture of iran by an American
Hi Rick,
I should say that it is the fairest picture depicted by an american from my country, Iran. Thank you for that and I hope for a day that more americans can go and visit Iran.
All the bests,
Hooman
Hooman
Vancouver, BC CAN 02/26/2009
Thanks
Dear Rick,
thank you for showing the picture of iran , i must admit that you went to Iran for knowing them and show them to others , thats the right step of peace. god bless all the good peoples
Hamed Khaleghi <email>
Tehran & Manila , IRAN 02/26/2009
tour
Hi Rick,
WOW,
It was a great ,why don't u have tour for there :(
Jhon
Vancouver, BC canada 02/26/2009
Iran and USA
Dear Rick,
It was Awesome !!! Well done !
I thank you very much for travelling to my country and showing a lot of things which people are not aware of, especially Americans.
I am so pleased that you clearly showed that whatever US government has said during all these years, is not necessarily true and they lie a lot for their benefits, like any other government !
As suggestions, it was much better to ask more accurate questions from people and intervew with different people with other religions rather than Islam and also show that Iranians were the FIRST nation who created HUMAN RIGHTS by order of Cyrus the great 2500 years ago.
Thank you again for this great show and may God bless all of us.
an Iranian
Toronto, Canada 02/26/2009
iran
dear rick, this was a great video, I'm from shiraz and believe it or not was able to learn a lot about my own city from your report. I enjoyed it so much. So many american, including my husband have a not very nice picture of Iran. They don't believe people are nice, friendly and lovely. I'm so glad you went there and saw for yourself. One less bad idea about Iranian people:) Thank you for traveling to iran and being honest about it. Warm Regards, Mojgan
mojgan <email>
coralspring, fl USA 02/26/2009
Iran
I just watched your show on Iran, on a PBS station, here in Corpus Christi, TX. I was born and raised in England and moved to the States at the age of 17. I was raised with a multitude of different nationalities and cultures, including my own parents, who were born and raised in Poland, and moved to England after WW11. I have always enjoyed different cultures,living in England you were open to so much of that, so it made it easy to enjoy your show on Iran and its people.
So many negative things have been said about Iran and it's people. As I watched, it opened my eyes to the people of Iran and how welcoming they were to you, curious and interested, it seemed to me, in you and America. And like you mentioned, in all cultures it's the similarities that the people have in common, not our differences.
How lucky we all are to be able to see a program like this, to help us understand each other more. There should be more of this type of programming,more understanding of each other could lead to, more peace throughout the world.
Thank You so much for the entertainment and the knowledge.
Alek <email>
Corpus Christi, TX USA 02/26/2009
Beautiful IRAN
All I can say is that By watching your report in IRAN I was able to learn about the real beautiful country, beautiful people and respect more their traditions and religion. Thank you so so much for your wanderful report.
Martha E.
port aransas, TX USA 02/26/2009
Dear Rick,
I enjoyed your article in the Lutheran. I agree totally. It does make it hard to bomb people you know and have come to love. I know that people on opposing armies in WWII deliberately shot wild to miss someone they knew on the other side. Then some turned and shot someone they DIDN'T know! I read that there were many shots wasted in our Civil War because one soldier recognized a relative on the other side.
My wife and I were missionaries to Nepal and went there twice. We grew to love the people and still get email from them every week. We know what you mean be getting to know people. The Nepali people have been our special friends since then and NO ONE could convince us to fight a war against them even thought the communists have taken over the government because the former government was so corrupt. Maybe that is the way to stop war. Do like you do! Travel around and get to know people so that you wouldn't want to kill any of them especially since you can't separate the bad guys from the good guys. We are in trouble in trouble in Afghanistan because we keep killing innocent by standers!
Keep up the good work! We love you and your programs!!
Blessings,
Rev. Bob Ove
Rev. Bob Ove
Rio Rancho, NM USA 02/25/2009
Rick Steve's Iran
dear Rick,
I have not watched this documentary yet. but from comments I think people have loved it because this doc shows some real face of Iran.
One request though. Please avoid using 'Farsi' because it's wrong. the official and national language of Iran is called 'Persian'. using Farsi is like using 'francais' or 'espanol'. these are local/native names of these languages. in English we use French and Spanish.
thanks,
Shahrbaraz
IRAN 02/25/2009
Iran
Good for you, Rick! I was so glad to see this show--It puts a face on Iran, plus clarifies that its citizens do like Americans, for the most part. It's just our governments who can't see eye to eye! We're all interconnected and I'm glad your show enabled me to become acquainted with the many peoples of Iran. Peace & BLessings! :) Jenny Fulcher
Jenny Fulcher <email>
Seattle, WA USA 02/24/2009
Rumi
As Rumi, the brilliant 13th century Persian mystic expressed:
Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing
and rightdoing there is a field--
I'll meet you there.When the soul lies down in that grass,the world is too full to talk about.
Again, thx for showing the wonderful, diverse culture and beautiful people of Iran. Jenny Fulcher
Jenny Fulcher
Seattle, WA USA 02/24/2009
Iran
Excellect program, saw many places for the first time
in sixty years. Thank you for your courage to venture
into the Iranian world. How about N Korea?
Eugene Brandon <email>
Port hadlock, WA USA 02/23/2009
Hi Rick,
I was very impressed with your documentary and trip in Iran. I am full Iranian and have grown up here in America but yet have been to Iran several times and visited most of the places you showed in your documentary. I have to say you did an amazing job covering all different aspects of Iran including the people, lifestyle, politics and the culture there. It was highly interesting and informative not only for me but for others who rarely see the real side of Iran and its people. You really allowed America to see what Iran is all about.. so I truly want to thank you for that and tell you how much I enjoyed watching.
N
WA USA 02/22/2009
stunning
Rick i have to say this was the best documentary you have done so far,
I'm totally impressed and stunned by Iran.
Frank M. <email>
Frankfurt, Hessen USA 02/21/2009
Many Thanks!
Outstanding, as usual! Thank you for opening this door to Iran. Your commitment to peace and international dialogue is a breath of fresh air.
Kimberly
Georgetown, TX USA 02/21/2009
Rick Steves in Iran
This was a most excellent program, even with understanding the constraints that you had to work under.You did a splendid job of showing the country and featuring strengths, and challenges the people have to face. Also ones that we as a country should look at.Beautiful, fair job!
KWLager
Neenah, WI USA 02/21/2009
Iran
Rick Steves what a wonderful program and what it must have been a wonderful trip to Iran.
It is obvious America has a lot to learn about other nations and cultures and stop being ugly Americans to the world. I did not see any opressed people in Iran from your film. I seen a modern respectfull people with a moral tradition that America could use.
When they say the are building Nuclear reactors for peacefull energy purposes (after seeing your film) I now believe that this is the case and America is controled by fear and propaganda.
Iran is not the enemy country that it is made out to be. It is a little disturbing that they hate Isreal so much. I would like to know why? And why they consider Isreal the 51 state of America? That statement in it self is disturbing. But the people say they Love America and Americans. And that can't be a bad thing.
Rick
WI USA 02/21/2009
treatment of Baha'is in Iran
Rick, thank you for doing the program on Iran. Something very noteworthy and current- the active persecution of the Baha'is there. Governments all over the world are denouncing the treatment of this religious minority in Iran. Check out Rainn Wilson's excellent commentary on CNN:
http://edition.cnn.com/2009/WORLD/meast/02/17/wilson.faith/index.html
Emilia
Austin, TX USA 02/21/2009
Thank You Mr. Steves
The episode, “Rick Steves’ Iran”, both affected my perception of Iran and deepened greatly my respect for Mr. Steves.
Many of the facts presented are familiar. Displayed in the show's format, transcendence occurs. Beyond the scope of travel survey, this episode acts as a welcome point of dialog between cultures.
Matthew <email>
New york, ny USA 02/20/2009
Persecution of Baha'i's
Iran is a beautiful country, steeped in culture and beautiful traditions. However, at this moment 7 Baha'i's (men and women) are on trial for their lives - simply because they BELONG to the Bahai' Faith.
The freedom to believe in God seems to be one of the most fundamental human rights. Yet in Iran, the Baha'i's have been singled out, harassed, their property and accounts confiscated, simply because of their belief. Isn't this when the world rises up against an injustice? Baha'i's in Egypt are also being held. We say we care about the rest of the world, but this is happening to devout and loving people - and life goes on. I don't understand.
Sally Renata
Surfside Beach, SC USA 02/20/2009
^^
HEY THERE!tanx alot 4 what u'vew done!well,but the only thing I would like 2 say is that Iran isn't all just about islamic things..I mean if u'll b between the ppl ('n I don't mean just ppl in public 'n street) u'll noticed..there r not EVERYONE muslim 'n all..'n the most r against the government we have now...so the video 'n all shows the real street 'n everything in iran,but I wanna say there's not everyone like that here!so there r still things differet about Iran! :P
THANX!
Tehran, Iran 02/19/2009
IS there a way we can view this documentary (in full length) on-line? My hometown didn't have it on TV and i really want to see it!
Henry <email>
Whitewater, WI USA 02/18/2009
Iran
I've always been fascinated by Iran because of the Biblical figure Cyrus the Great. Your tour really makes me want to visit to see the history and nice people. By the way, you have the most soothing voice on television!
Felecia
Oklahoma City, OK USA 02/18/2009
Unique , even for me!!
Salam Steve,
What I found very unique about your documentry movie was the places that I have never had a chance to visit!! you took me there and I loved it. I could feel that with all my heart.
Thank you for showing the world the hospitality and generosity of Iranians and a rich culture behind it all. The culture that has almost been lost in the eyes of non-Iranians. People from other parts of world have no idea what is the truth about Iran. I would like to thank you for this eye opening documentry. I am planning to forward your documentry to every one I know and will hope that they pass it along...
Hopefully in your next visits to Iran you would be able to visit many more parts and places of Iran because each part has its own unique beauty and culture that even Irananians haven't seen.
I was born and raised in Tehran and lived there until I was 28 years old. I had visited many cities in Iran but would like to go back some day and visit many more. this was a good massage to my fellow Americans that despite of everything going on in middle east these days, Iran still is a safe and beautiful place to visit.
God bless you for this importance and many more to come. as you said,
" Mamnoon"!!
Your friend,
Kathy
Kathy <email>
Lake forest , ca USA 02/16/2009
Iran documentary
I just wanted to say how pleased I was that you dared to reject the isolationist arrogance America has towards Iran. And how can anyone endorse the destruction of Iran after seeing their humanity? I hope everyone in America opens their mind a little to let the light in of your documentary. To gain knowledge and understanding, we must reject ethnocentrism and prejudice and then perhaps we will attain peace??? Keep up the courageous and thoughtful work you do!!! Starr C. Gilmartin
Starr Gilmartin <email>
Trenton, Me USA 02/13/2009
Iran
I saw your show last night on PBS - KLRN (shown 11 Feb 2009). It was fantastic. I loved it. Thank you so much for doing this. It was very daring and took a lot of faith. I have known several Iranians here in the US and they were all wonderful, just like those in your show. It was so good, I want to go someday. Keep up the great work Rick and crew.
Jim White <email>
San Antonio, Texas USA 02/12/2009
Iran
Thanks for a fascinating glimpse into Iran. It accomplished what any good travel show should do--introduce a culture and leave a viewer wanting to visit, and I do! My only regret is that Rick did not state (or did I miss it?) what if anything he was not permitted to film.
Richard
San Antonio, TX USA 02/12/2009
IRAN
Thank you very much. It was a great job, but I think Iran has many other lovely cities and places that in one hour you cannot show all of them.
Best Regards for all human beings
Ghasem <email>
Tehran, Iran 02/11/2009
Iran show, Commonwealth Club lecture
Thank you for your wonderful film, and for your insightful talk to the Commonwealth Club!
I so agree that we should get to know people as people, before accepting bellicose rhetoric about them as even credible, much less unquestionable. There may indeed be a time for war, but that time is when all other viable options have been exhausted. If we make war without even trying diplomacy, without even trying to understand the people we so blithely demonize, how are we better than those we rightly condemn as terrorists?
I believe that American values are the best thing we have to offer the world. But I also believe that it takes constant vigilance and self-criticism to embody those values consistently. And above all, I believe the best of our values is the respect and tolerance of those who are different from us.
Nicole <email>
Great Island, Maine USA 02/11/2009
Great job
Thank you Steve for going to Iran and showing people that my country is beautiful and people are great. I am living in Seattle for 10 years and i miss my country so much. Thank you Than you Thank you for doing this :)
Masy <email>
bellevue, wa USA 02/10/2009
Dear Rick,
My husband (an American) and I (born and lived in Iran till 1980 and now a US citizen) have watched many of your travel shows and have traveled the world ourselves. We were very pleasantly surprised one day when we saw your Iran Show recorded on our Tivo!! First of all, I want to thank you for producing a beautiful travel show, on all levels. And I especially want to thank you for not only focusing on the politics of Iran or trying to put a negative spin on what you captured on camera, but for trying to capture it for what it is: a beautiful and ancient culture, full of interesting places and friendly people...with a dictatorial and unpleasant government. It's a shame that you had to work within the limitations set by the government, otherwise it would have been really great for you to show the "behind close doors" version of Iran where the hejab comes off and all people let their hair down (no pun intended!). Because Iranian people definitely know how to have a good time :)
It's a bit disappointing to read some of the negative comments on this board. Yes, it's true that there are people in Iran that are evil and against the US, that things aren't perfect, and many people feel stifled by the government mandates . But doesn't every country have its fair share of Evil and corrupt people? I will dare say that we have plenty of that here in the US!
I just wanted to say that you've done something wonderful by showing and educating people about a side of Iran that most Americans have never seen...the human side. And to highlight the fact that it's not our people at odds with each other, but our governments. I think this quote from your journal says it all, and expresses the philosophy that has made us respect you and your work: "I have long held that travel can be a powerful force for peace. Travel promotes understanding at the expense of fear. And understanding bridges conflict between nations."
"May Peace be upon us" indeed...
I'm planning to return to Iran for the first time in years in the near future with my husband and 2 kids (last visit was in 90 after the war ended) and your show made me want to go back even more! Thanks you again!
Roxy Gribben <email>
San Francisco, CA USA 02/10/2009
Iran
Wonderful program that should be mandatory watching for all Americans. You brought the beauty of the country and people to your viewers. I have been to Iran five times in the past four years and have never experienced such welcoming and caring people. As stated by an Iranian woman quoted on your show " the problem is between the governments, we love Americans." With the latest news that former President Khatami is running again for office I know our two countries will find a way to coexist peacefully. Thank you for visiting Iran.
Denise Karamafrooz
St. Paul, MN USA 02/09/2009
Moral Equivalency
Would you please clarify whether or not you receive payment from the Iranian government? I heard your Commonwealth Club talk on NPR and found it strongly propagandistiscally favorable to Iran's current situation. Among other things, besides your anti-Israel bias, you at least implied that suicide bombers were the moral equivalent of such American heroes as Nathan Hale--suicide bombers, tacitly and factually supported by Iran, often being mentally disabled women wrapped in dynamite vests that are exploded remotely by male terrorists in crowds of innocent people--and that memebers of B'Hai faith should simply accept the fact that they have no place in the Iran of today--as Jews had no place in the Germany of Hitler? Will you, similarly, in the not-too-distant future be showing us the "human" side of North Korea and Zimbabwe?
Thomas
Sheridan, WY USA 02/09/2009
Iran
For some folks that posted negative adds to Rick’s documentary, and I hope you do more research before you post. “You may lead a thirsty horse to a water hole, but you cannot force it to DRINK”. An idiom!
“Where is the good? In the will. Where is the evil? In the will. Where is neither of them? In those things which are independent of the will.” Epictetus, ii.16.1
Iraj
San jose, ca USA 02/09/2009
Iran
I work with Iranian ex-patriots. They are all Christian and left Iran for religious and political freedom. I agree that the Iranian people are not our enemies, only their government. Hopefully there will be a shift in attitude in the Iranian government if the reformists come back into power. Unfortunately, the real power lies with the Mullahs who dictate religious law, which overrides all other. Until they reform their attitudes, I'm afraid nothing will really change.
To thaw relations with the U.S., I believe that several things must be done first by the Iranian government before we open a dialog. First, they must offer a formal apology for the taking of our Embassy in 1979 and compensate the U.S. government for the loss of our "sovereign" territory, as well as compensate those who were their victims. Second, they should allow IAEA inspectors to have full access to their nuclear facilities to see what they are really up to. Thirdly, they should demonstrate respect and tolerance of other religions (there is still a small minority of Jews and Christians) in their own society if they are to expect Americans to respect theirs.
Scott
Dallas, TX USA 02/09/2009
Your Effort
Nice Job Rick,
Never mind about the mean comments, naturally, successful people are the target of jealous or narrow minded ones
Prof. Oskoorouchi
Santa Cruz, CA USA 02/09/2009
Iran show
Thank you so much for making this show.
I have many Iranian friends here is the US.
It says so much about our government and culture as it gives an inside view into iran's.
marilyn martin
las Cruces, NM USA 02/08/2009
Rick Steves' Iran
Hi, I just saw your program about Iran on Rocky Mtn PBS and was totally impressed. Thank you for taking your program to areas that we are so unfamiliar with. The positive social effect could be significant. I only hope that our politicians, on both sides of the cultural gap, will take time to appreciate the stories that you have to tell. Thank you! Thank you!
Loretta <email>
Manassa, Co USA 02/08/2009
Your Recent Trip to Iran
Hi Steve,
I just wanted to say how much I enjoyed your new show about Iran. I am an Iranian living in Seattle, who has not been back to Iran for well over thirty years. So, your show brought so many great memories of the old country. I can't THANK YOU enough. I recently found the following links with great pictures of Iran. Thought your viewers might enjoy seeing them. One of the pictures is of the tiny village in Northern Iran called Masouleh that you showcased, which is on UNESCO's world heritage list. The second site has photos exclusively from Tehran. I hope you and your viewers enjoy them.
http://www.worldisround.com/articles/73022/
http://www.worldisround.com/articles/98910/index.html
Faz Kasraie <email>
Seattle, WA USA 02/08/2009
Iran tour
Hi Rick,i just saw your Iran's tour on dvd,i love it!because you show that all Iranians are not terrorist,and we are humans with simple life ,living under some circonstances ,that we can not change!
why you didn't go to the north of Iran,by caspian sea? is very beautiful too!
HAMIDEH <email>
GILROY, CA USA 02/08/2009
Thanx!
Thank you for this wonderful tour.
My brother-in-law was Iranian and I learned great admiration for Persia, Persians, and their history.
We are more connected to each other than we realize or acknowledge . . . let this usher in an era of open perceptive appreciation of our oneness.
Thanx again!
JJ
Los Alamos, NM USA 02/08/2009
Rick's Iran segment
I think the host is not fit to author a segment on anything thats not western. I'm not saying this because I hate him. In fact I pity him. I watched the Iran segment. He was like any other confused western tourist not knowing what to do when and how especially in a culturally rich and vibrant country/region that Iran is. There is one thing to capture (via camera) the sights and sounds of a country but it really takes a genius of a reporter to capture the country's pulse. All the Rick did was to smile a lot, shake hands, try to pitch the idea that America and Iran should get together. Of course, peace and goodwill is a good thing. The west should appreciate a country's history and context and not just try to force what they believe should be done.
Rick also asks pointless questions like why are sunnis and shiaites fighting each other. Its like having an Iranian document the United States and focus on why theres a war between East Coast and West Coast rappers and think that it defines the country!
Rick had done absolutely no preparation before shooting the segment. He didnt know what/how saffron looked like! And I need to buy that hes a journalist?
It is unfortunate that the segment started out with a disclaimer saying that it wouldnt document anything political and yet I found the segment teeming with political sentiments. I think you can capture Iran for its culture and heritage and keep Politics at bay. Oh well, what would a westerner understand about ancient culture anyways?
I think you need to learn a lot when it comes to journalism. At best, you are an average tourist!
NR
SD, PA USA 02/07/2009
Iran
Hello Rick,
You’ve done a marvelous job, which only comes with dedication from people like you with superb heart and intellectual mind such as yours. All I can say is a big thank YOU Please ignore those who cannot even live within their own mind, not mentioning their own body! Fox news is well known all around the world, and almost everybody around the globe knows who they are, and what their agenda is all about!
Unfortunately, the well hearted Americans such as you or alike are blocked by the misleading of Fox news, and Israeli lobbyist, that even in the USA, that expression of speech used to be a right, is no longer valid anymore.
If you don’t agree with this, ask all those who posted negative responses to your humanitarian mission, and find out, that they all watch the FOX news everyday, NOT even mentioning that they support and finance their broadcast all around the world to justify their existence by killing innocent children everywhere, especially in the Middle East.
Henry Kissinger, during the bloody eight war, with millions of young kids, death on both sides of IRAN and Iraq said this quote. “THIS WAR SHOULD HAVE NO WINNERS”.
Just think about this quote and you maybe on your journey to the wonderful Middle East once again, and you’ll open the gates for freedom and peace for the unfortunates.
THANKS again from somebody who loves and respect humans, despite their views, race, skin color, religion etc.
Iraj <email>
San Jose, Ca USA 02/07/2009
THANK YOU RICK
Rick You did a GREAT job. I am an Iranian girl who came to USA 6 years ago and I can tell this documentary was the best one of its own kind. Thanks for what you did...
Sara
USA 02/07/2009
Iran
I watched the Iran special & have to say it was, in my opinion, the best segment Steves has ever done. There are few images and little information about everyday life inside modern Iran. Rick and his crew did a great job of putting a human face on one of the "axis of evil" countries. Please continue on this path-- opening up countries we Americans have little access to--in fact, why not visit the entire Middle East and beyond?? Rick Steves' Europe can easily become Rick Steves' World. Also appreciated the "documentary" style content in lieu of the usual travel log--waaay more interesting....
Lyn
Denver, CO USA 02/06/2009
Iranian Food!
Thank you so much for your special on Iran. I'm half Iranian and lived in Tehran from 1972-1978. In addition to watching your program, I also read an article where you talked about your trip and mentioned that the food wasn't great. I'm going to have to step in here... Iranian food is absolutely amazing! The stews (especially), the kabobs, the rice, the tahdig! It's the best food I've ever eaten and everyone who has tried it that I know, agrees. My husband had never had Iranian food when we met 12 years ago, and since tasting it, it's all he wants to eat. Hopefully you'll give it another try!
Taji Zaminasli <email>
San Rafael, CA USA 02/06/2009
Iran
Oh, how we appreciated Mr. Steves' picture and insights of Iran! What a beautiful people and country. We feel this show could do much to promote understanding and dialogue between our countries. Thank you.
Dee Jackson
Austin, TX USA 02/05/2009
Iranians & revolutionary Ideas
You made an interesting film about Iran. But sometimes, maybe, you show the seperation between Iranians and their goverment. There are somebody do not agree with government but ofcourse there are many Iranians support governmental ideas.
You can see them in 22 Bahman demonstration.
Morteza
Tehran, Iran 02/05/2009
I love Rick Steves' Iran!
Ashley
USA 02/04/2009
Great job
I thought Rick did a phenomenal job covering Iran in this special. I have watched Rick Steves' shows since I was 11 and thought that this one was the most evocative. Although I disagree with the views of the Iranian government, their people and history are fascinating indeed. Thank you for going out on a limb with this one, Rick... Maybe Rick Steves' Pyongyang is next?
Dennis
Chicago, IL USA 02/04/2009
Iran
I am an Iranian born in 1980 and like millions of other Iranians not guilty for removing Shah from power and bringing these cruel radical regime to power, I want to thank Rick Steve for his good job. I am also happy to read Americans' comments here, when I see they realize that Iran is not the Islamic Republic. In fact except 10% of the regime's supporters you find millions of people who like America and Americans and see the regime as occupires of their country, people who don't want the Bomb and they respect all religions. Iran is the only country on earth which didn't become arab after arab's invasionsand the Islam religion is just a name which young generations of Iran doesn't care for it and it's just a tool in the hand of government to put pressure on us and kill innocent, in the name of God.
And to those nice Americans who think Presient Bush was wrong and there is a way to talk to this system, as an Iranian who have lived in Iran for the past 29 years I am telling you that Bush was right and people in Iran like him even more than people in America does, the only way is toput presuure on the regime as much as possible so the people inside can overthrow them.
I hope some day all of you come and visit the free Iran and enjoy the culture, thecivilization, the hospitality and its infinite beauties.
P.S the only disagreement with Rick would be the picture he chosefor the website page!!]
Sina <email>
Phoenix, AZ USA 02/04/2009
My conceptions of the Iranian people are so different now that I've seen how many of them really are. Thanks, Rick!
Andrew
Seattle, USA 02/04/2009
Comment by an Iranian
I was born in Iran and raised in Seattle. Last summer I took a trip to visit Tehran, Isfahan, and Shiraz. Rick showed Iran beautifully. The art and architecture, the people, the food... I hope that foreigners will benefit from this fresh point of view on this wonderful, diverse, and great country.
I wanted to make one point clear though - most girls who are wearing the solid black (or white) scarves that only seem to show the face, are wearing a 'maghnae' which is the required uniform for school/work. Mostly girls just throw on a fashionable scarf which usually only covers 2/3 of their head anyway (lots more hair showing) AND young girls aren't required to wear any sort of hejab (covering-scarf or long coat) unless they are at school. Rick said that women are required to wear a 'chador' at one point in the video, and this is also false. The chador is a large cloth that very religious women use to wrap themselve from head to tow, with only their face showing. This is worn by women at times of prayer as well. "Roosari" is the scarf worn on the head and "Monteau" is the long coat. These two items are all you need to meet the 'hejab' law in Iran. Its actually quite fashionable and as a woman, it never felt like a big bother to throw them on.
There are more complex issues then just wearing a scarf and long coat...oh and I am not religious at all.
To Rick - advice for your next trip to Iran, which you must have since you haven't covered so many amazing places yet, like Lake Urumieh, Shomal and the Caspian Sea, Hamedan and its caves... my advice is that you try to show more food, learn more language, and ask better questions from better sources. Thanks!
Dokhtar Irooni <email>
Seattle, WA USA 02/04/2009
Irani
dear steve
i can not tell you how greatly honored i am by your work, you are the 1st person that shown an effort and has succeeded of seeing the true side of Iran, not like other reportes who just want to make news and take the most exciting images which are the worst images of Iran and show it to the rest of the world (eg. Down with Israel)you truly do deserve the peace noble price.
and if you ever want to visit australia iam humbly to be at your service
Thank you
Saba <email>
Perth, w.a Australia 02/02/2009
Rick Steves in Iran
It is my fervent hope, after reading many comments by viewers around North America, that people from the USA refrain from planning near-term visits to Iran. While the vast majority of the Iranian people, IF left to their own devices, would welcome Americans with friendly hospitality, we should not reach naive conclusions about the hostile regime in power there since the SHAM election in 1979 "choosing" the Islamic republic and abolishing the monarchy.
One should note the hundreds of thousands (actually millions) of Iranians living in North America, Europe and elsewhere outside of Iran. There are valid reasons that they fled their native country. The Islamic regime in Tehran and the authorities in the streets are very repressive and unfriendly towards the West - make no mistake about it. As one contributor noted, Iran is not a wise choice for Spring break.
Rick Steves would have been well-advised to limit the program to Persian people and their culture and to make no mention whatsoever of the current or past regimes.
Having spent 5 years of my life in Tehran, I too was astonished at Rick Steves giving a thumbs up gesture during the documentary. While it is hard to keep track of gestures that are taboo in various countries, someone involved in the production should have informed Rick that this had to be deleted from the final version of the film.
Lewis F. Clark <email>
Venice, FL USA 02/02/2009
Travel video on Iran
Fantastic introduction to Iran - which was virtually unknown to most of us. The Iranian government was wise in letting you film. No longer will we think of Iran as made of mullahs, revolutionary guards and nuclear threat. It is now much more: a beautiful country with warm, friendly and beautiful people.
Antonio Di Stefano
San Francisco, CA USA 02/02/2009
Thank you
Hi Rick,
I just wanted to thank you for your afford for making such a great documentary on Iran. I hope for a day when Iran and US relation gets better. We Iranians do not dislike Americans. We love and respect all human being.
God bless Iran and USA.
Omid <email>
Tehran, Tehran Iran 02/02/2009
Iran
Rick's visit has resulted in so much understanding of a country that has been demonized for the last 30 years. Isn't this a sign of respect?
I and many others are really apreciative of Rick's courage and effort to shine light on Iran at this critical time.
Kaveh
Seattle, USA 02/01/2009
Building Bridges Between Iran & the USA
As an American who has been leading Americans regularly to Iran since 1997 in an effort to build bridges of citizen diplomacy between our 2 countries I am pleased that travel to Iran has finally hit the mainstream with Rick Steves. The more Americans who go to Iran the more we will learn from each other and thus contribute to mutual understanding. Iran is a country of incredible diversity culturally as well as geographically. You won't be the same again after a trip to this wonderful country!
Jerry Dekker <email>
San Francisco, CA USA 02/01/2009
Good job!!
Thank you Rick for this great show!
I just watched it last night on google video...great job fimlimg this show and going to all these cities :)
As an Iranian living abroad, it is great to see and hear that non-Iranians visit Iran, enjoy themselves and truely see what Iranians are like...the media always shows a 'different' side of Iran, which is mostly what the government thinks and says ....not how the people are or how beautiful this land is :)
Thank you
Aida <email>
Toronto, canada, ON USA 02/01/2009
Iran
I was really impressed that Rick went outside his usual European destinations to document a country where most Americans would not think to vacation. I respect the effort because it was for understanding between people, not for travel guide selling. Knowing his "followers" who appreciate and enjoy learning about different cultures would trust his research and conclusions regarding this mysterious culture and be a broad audience to tap in to, this film was a brilliant idea. I enjoyed the show a lot, not having any knowledge of Iran and its people beyond the news. It was beautiful. Understanding and knowledge is certainly better than hatred and ignorance.
trumps4travel
Charlotte, NC USA 02/01/2009
What a wonderful program. I have watched you before, but I was super impressed with this program. What a beautiful country and I loved the conversations with the people. Keep it coming.
USA 02/01/2009
Appreciation
Steve, In seeing your Iran program, I was stunned by the beauty and peacefulness of the place and the people in that country. Your work in sharing these images with the west, is a huge gift to world understanding. I personally think you should be nominated for the Nobel peace prize for this work. Thank you!
Lisa
Moscow, ID USA 02/01/2009
Iran
Dear Rick,
What you did by traveling to Iran, is beyond words. Thank you so very much for this outrageous effort. I am deeply and truly appreciative of you as a real human being and as the most knowledgable traveler ever. You certainly deserve the peace noble prize.
Best regards and warmest wishes,
Mimi
Mimi <email>
San Rafael, CA USA 02/01/2009
Iran
Thanks for your fine show on Iran. I was in Iran for three weeks about a year ago at the height of one of our periods of threatening to bomb Iran. I went to all the places you showed and many more and my constant thot was that we must never bomb Iran. These are wonderful friendly people just like us and it is a gorgeous country which they are justly proud of. I've been a lot of places, but Iran will always be #1 on my most fabulous places list. I cannot imagine that anyone who has actually been there as you and I have would even consider bombing this country. I would wish for a better government for them, but I do not believe they are suicidal and plan to attack us. More people need to visit there. Talk to them. Again, thanks for showing what Iran is really like.
Ann <email>
New York, NY USA 01/31/2009
I saw the program last night, the first time I have seen anything non-political about Iran on TV. Fascinating! Great job, Steve and company! Yes, it was one-sided, but so is all the government propoganda we have been fed over the years. Maybe this will help to achieve some balance.
Frequently during the show when a beautiful mosque or building was shown I thought "so this is what our government wants to bomb to rubble". Depressing.
Michael
USA 01/31/2009
IRAN episode JAN 29 NYC
Rick, THANKS! Great episode! PLS ensure that Pres. Obama SEES IT!!!! with the Joint Chiefs! I echo the sentiments of my fellow viewers! How depressing it would EVER be to 'bomb' those lovely children and civil culture!! Then we'd be EQUAL to the lunatics who destroyed the BUDHA sculptures !! :-(
Ray L <email>
Astoria, New York, NY USA 01/31/2009
trips to Iran
What a wonderful presentation!.I'm an American sociologist who recently re-visited Iran and felt it was so important for Americans to see the "other" Iran,that I'm now helping Americans travel there.
Norm Lee <email>
New York, NY USA 01/31/2009
Iran in perspective
Dear Rick,
As a resident of Iran from January 1975 until May 1979, I enjoyed and appreciated the program on your recent visit to Tehran, Esfahan, Shiraz, etc., all of which I have toured extensively. While I would be the first to agree that the Persian culture and the Iranian people are both interesting and hospitable, the impression left of the repressive Islamic regime was rather "sugar-coated." I do understand that one must be somewhat circumspect when being allowed to visit and film such a country. I personally witnessed the horrendous cruelty of the Ayatollah Khomeini and his revolutionary guards back in 1979. In addition to the members of the Baha'i faith, most of the Jews and many of the Armenians were forced to flee the country following the 1978/1979 revolution. The regime remains repressive to this day. Further, the depiction of the last Shah Mohammed Reza Pahlavi as a useless despot and puppet of the West is a convenient, but very inaccurate, generalization. He did much to improve the country's educational system, fairness in land ownership, medical facilities, tolerance of all religions & cultures, etc. On balance he did far more good than harm. We should, nonetheless, do all possible to find a path to peaceful co-existence with Iran, but we must also continue to pressure them to abandon plans to build an A-bomb. It is a wonderful country with warm, friendly people (by nature) and a fascinating culture of art, architecture, cuisine, etc. While the revolution was a tragic end to my stay in Iran, I greatly value the experience of having lived in that country.
Lewis F. Clark <email>
Venice, FL USA 01/31/2009
travel to Iran
Hooray for showing us the other Iran. I hope you won't mind my taking advantage of Rick's wonderful presentation of the
"other" Iran, but I'm an American middle east expert/writer who is sponsoring tours to Iran and hope Rick's fans will visit my website at irancustomtravel.com
Nicky <email>
New York, NY USA 01/31/2009
the Iran show
I was returning from an errand, and went through the living room where my wife had PBS on the tv. She had fallen asleep, and I saw Rick on his show talking with a couple of 'arab' girls about how do they meet guys.
I'll tell you I couldn't stop watching. My first impressions were amazement at the beautiful workmanship on the historical buildings; the incredible history that the people have - I mean these places are the cradles of culture; and the those still photos of the 'people' were compeling.
joe silva <email>
albany, ny USA 01/31/2009
A good show
I just finished watching the show and found it very interesting, enlightening and educational, as Rick Steves' shows always are.
Jeff Jenkins <email>
Ocala, FL USA 01/31/2009
Iran
I want to thank you for your wonderful travel documentary on Iran. You introduced us to Iranian history, culture, and people in a way that enabled us to get beyond ignorance and prejudice to meet the people of this great country. You didn't apologize for a government that oppresses its people and supports terrorism against Israel, but you also allowed to see that Iran is more than its present government leaders and their policies.
Back in 1967 I had the privilege of spending the summer in Iran working and living among Iranian students in Shiraz, Esfahan, and Teheran. It was a great experience. I have loved the Iranian people and their great culture ever since. With you I hope our two countries develop better relations in the future. Your documentary is a great start.
Grant Abbott <email>
St. Paul`, MN USA 01/31/2009
We the People
This film is the truth for which "we the people" are really hungering. It was not only a clear and concise historical review, but it put a face and personality to a country that seems in contrast, to have been strangely demonized in our United States where freedom rings. Thank you Rick!
Don't we all hope that President Obama can take the time to sit down and watch it with Michele, kids, a few good friends & some good Middle Eastern food!
Pamela
Minneapolis, MN USA 01/31/2009
Iran
Was the show edited or altered by Iranian Censorship officials? Although I was very impressed with the culture, history, and people; I had to remind myself that this was a travel show not an informative news program. Unfortunately, the brutal leadership of Iran makes it very difficult for people who don't view the world like them to come and enjoy their country.
Dan
OFallon, MO USA 01/31/2009
General comment
Bingo! Rick Steves has done it again with his usual expertise we have come to love. Never before I have understood the complexities of Iran or the U.S's role in its recent history. Now I feel as if I have a toe-hold. As a role model we would be hard pressed to find a person more qualified than Rick Steves in showing us how to reach out and touch the world with human kindness and respect. Rick (and the election of Obama,) have re-charged my hope batteries.
Gail James
Lacey, WA USA 01/31/2009
stupidity visits Iran
I recently watched the "rick steve in Iran special." His belligerence and arrogance did not go unnoticed, rick is the poster boy for the "ugly american" stereotype. You may inform him Mr. Afifi has watched many of his "trips" and enjoyed all of them until the Iran incident. If you can't be respectful to people when you are visiting them, then for the love of God - please don't visit them! His comments were born of ignorance, sleazy and on par with the so-called "fair and balanced" low-life's of fox news. If that is your goal stay home please, the world doesn't need you fanning the flames with your rubbish. You truly make it difficult for your fellow upstanding citizens to see the world with their own eyes and represent America as it truly is...
Because of people like you, when Americans go anywhere overseas they become "Canadians" and it's just not funny anymore. Learn some travel etiquette before you pack your bags or just simply go try your antics in afghanistan.
Thank you.
Respectfully,
Mr. John Afifi
John Afifi
SAN DIEGO, ca USA 01/31/2009
IRAN
Great job on this production. I visited Iran several times during the '70's (pre revolution) and was struck by the modernization that's taken place in the ensuing years. One thing that hasn't changed is the average Iranian's friendliness and sincere desire to have good relations with the U.S. Thank you for opening up this otherwise secretive society to a large segement of our population.
Andy Boggs
Monroe, NC USA 01/30/2009
I like to reiterate Rick Steves's finding that Most Iranians love America and Americans with this on spot no edit video of Obama'a Inaugrations in an Iranian household. The older lady is 82 years old and the young one in the video 35 years old. On the phone the lady phoning in, is 50. What I am showing is Iranians of all ages love America.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nkZ-nR5gJJo
Lover of America the Great
USA 01/30/2009
Iran is Beautiful
great job! I am an Iranian. I lived in Iran for 30 years and I am in Canada now. I was there during the war. Iranian people never hated Americans. They all know love is far more rewarding than hatred. Unfortunately governments do not represent their people. The only government that probably truly represented Iranian people goes back 2500 years ago. Iranians embrace tourists and truly love Americans, Europeans etc,...
Now living in a country that people have no idea what Iranians are like, this show is very informative and eye opener. Some comments on the blog from Iranians make me sad saying the true image of Iran wasn't shown. THIS IS THE TRUE IMAGE OF IRAN. This show was about people and places not politics.People of Iran have always succeeded in keeping their spirits high in spite of all their problems and limitations imposed by their governments.
As a lot of people have said here on this blog "PEOPLE ARE PEOPLE NO MATTER WHERE THEY ARE AND DIFFERENCES ARE REALLY MINOR COMPARED TO WHAT WE HAVE IN COMMON"
THANKS RICK!
Babak <email>
los angeles, ca USA 01/30/2009
Iran Show
Congratulations on your travel show on Iran. I am both a documentary producer and traveler. What you did was make a most remarkable show, thoughtful yet honest, informative yet real.
Years ago my parents visited the places you did. My mother, now 93, was delighted someone had ventured there for us all in 2009.
Would that the world could come together as you did with the Iranian people.
Your shows (now in HD) are stunning, your production consistently strong, intelligent, and engaging. An Emmy should be coming your way soon.
Maxine W. Davis <email>
Minneapolis, MN USA 01/30/2009
IRAN TRIP
I visited Iran for one week, on a private tour by myself, from Oct 23-31, 2008. One of the most fabulous trips I have even taken. My son's father is Iranian and so I knew much about the language and customs; but even if I had not I found the country to be beautiful and bountiful, and the citizens friendly and warm. My guide was like a brother to me; and my dear driver in Tehran gave me a beautiful book of watercolors my last day with him. In all of the 45 countries I have visited I have never had my driver give me a gift. I will return to Iran, God willing, for many more happy trips!
Michelle Alnawafleh <email>
Salt Lake City, Utah USA 01/30/2009
Rick Steeves' Iran
I am a regular PBS viewer(KCET; KOCE). I was very moved by Rick's recent program on Iran. It was intelligent, compassionate, enlightening and very professionally done without ever sacrificing the human touch. God bless Rick & his staff for this work.
J. E. Heil <email>
Ventura, CA USA 01/30/2009
Iran
As a young east european girl I once met a nice guy who happened to be from Iran. We were together for 5 years and he had never forbiden anything, he never hit me, he didn't drink...
I truly enjoyed the program about Iran, I knew already,that people over there are friendly and welcoming. The food is amazing and the culture is very rich,colorful - it's a country with special character. Me and that guy are not together any more but it didn't change my positive oppinion about people and culture of Iran. By the way - there are some stupid people (who want to make money and be powerful) everywhere - in Iran, USA, Germany, Russia, everywhere... and you would't act differently, but defend your family and country if someone attacks you... God bless everyone, peace on Earth!
Bali
Vancouver, Canada 01/30/2009
Rick Steve's Iran
I am a huge fan of Rick Steve's Europe, but I must say that I was far beyond impressed with Rick Steve's Iran. It shed a great deal of light on the culture, religion, and ways of people who are indeed not too different from us at all. It also gave me a great deal of hope that cooler heads may prevail and that the people of the world may live at peace with each other. Thank you Rick.
Brian Taylor <email>
Bayonne, NJ USA 01/30/2009
Rick Steves' Iran
This was just aired in NYC on PBS... what a wonderful program, and a very good time to broadcast it. We Americans NEED to see positive presentations like this about those our govt is hostile toward... we need to be aware of how people in such countries can separate their feelings about us vs our government -- something many Americans cannot or will not do.
Thank you, Rick, for this very enlightening program.
Jim Cooper
Paramus, NJ USA 01/30/2009
Iran
So informative. Thank you very much. Really opened a window so that we could see the beauty of the country, the richness of its culture, and the friendliness and generosity of its people. Truly the other side of fear is understanding.
Mimi McDermott <email>
New York City, NY USA 01/30/2009
from newyork with love
mr steve thanks alot for the show .its realy amazing feeling .hope alot of americans who watch the show will have deferent view about other countries especialy muslim contries.
hosien <email>
brooklyn, ny USA 01/30/2009
Thanks for your excellent program on Iran
Dear Rick,
Thank you for this beautiful and enlightening program.
What a pleasure it was to see the architecture, history and people of Iran through your lens. Your kind, intelligent perspective is greatly appreciated.
Thank you again,
Irene
Irene Roxanne <email>
new york, ny USA 01/30/2009
Iran - The Country
Thank you for this lovely tour of beautiful Iran. As someone who works with political Iranians, it was truly refreshing to witness this apolitical view of the country and its people. It was just a lovely hour.
Chuck <email>
New york, NY USA 01/30/2009
Viva Persia and America
Iran Government needs some enemies to survive!!! Just this..
Persian are very kind people and love all the world humanity.
Reza
SWEDEN 01/29/2009
Viva Persia and America
Iran Government needs some enemies to survive!!! Just this..
Persian are very kind people and love all the world humanity.
Reza
SWEDEN 01/29/2009
A must see for all Americans, especially G.W.B.
I thoroughly enjoyed this show. Thank you for such a quality piece showing the real feelings of these beautiful Persian people towards Americans. I was enthralled with the rich history and the depth you brought to it. Obama should make it mandatory for everyone to watch this enlightening experience you caught on film so we can be better informed of the reality of the situation. Knowledge is half the battle! Good form Mr. Steves, you deserve an award.
Gina Kahai <email>
Honolulu, HI USA 01/29/2009
Enlightened views
Thanks Rick for a great show. It is my hope our congressman and senators viewed the show as well!
Karen <email>
Schaumburg, IL USA 01/29/2009
IRAN
THIS WAS A BEAUTIFUL PROGRAM. MY HUSBAND AND I ARE VERY PROUD TO HAVE A BEAUTIFUL DAUGHTER-IN-LAW FROM TEHRAN, IRAN. WE HAVE EXPERIENCED MANY WONDERFUL THINGS RELATING TO HER PERSIAN HERITAGE MOST ESPECIALLY THE FOOD. THANK YOU RICK STEVES FOR VISITING THE COUNTRY OF MY DAUGHTER-IN-LAWS BIRTH.
JOANN RODRIGUEZ <email>
CHICAGO, IL USA 01/29/2009
this show really opened my eyes to what a beautiful place Iran is and how friendly the people are. I appreciate rick steves for bringing their world to us and helping us to understand the people of Iran and see that, though we are very different, we are still much the same!
sarah
murfreesboro, tn USA 01/29/2009
censorship
What weren't they allowed to shoot or show?
Dan
new york, USA 01/29/2009
Iran
I had the pleasure of knowing many Iranians in my lifetime. Getting to know people from all over aids in getting rid of stereotypes, and racism, etc. People are people period. No matter the customs, foods, language, or religion we all have basic needs, goals and concerns and the sooner people realize how more alike we are than different, the world can be a better place. Thanks Rick for taking the time to go to Iran and show the rest of the world how beautiful it is. I realize that based on government sanctions and such you showed a more positive side of Iran but with any country there are negatives. That goes without saying. Even the US is not without faults.
Renee
Chicago, Il USA 01/29/2009
Iran Show
I have watched your show for years and this was without a doubt the most important show you have done. Americans need for tolerance and understanding is more important than ever!
Perhaps arrangements should be made to show it in as many schools as possible
Great job, I will be sure to show it to all my friends
Barry Brown
Perrysburg, ohio USA 01/29/2009
Iran
Great job! I just watched the preview version of the show and I can realize how impressive it can be,in particular for Iranian who live in abroad,like me! you have said and showed exactly what I tried to show people around me,that we are not Arab, we do not speak Arabic, most of us are born Muslim but not truly believe in its orders, the women inside Iran are obliged to wear hijab and most of them do not believe in it, we are not the enemies of USA and Israel, the government of Iran is completely separated from the people and a lot of other things that I am sure you have pictured in your show.
cheers
Ali N.E.
Ali N.E, <email>
Linkoping, Sweden 01/29/2009
Iran
I heard a lot of negetive comments by the conservative talk show hosts that I listen to often. I am not sure what they have been smoking or if they had really watched the entire show. I thought it was amazingly incredible. fantasticly impartial, human, real and badly needed. I have a greater appreciation, underestanding and love for those people. I don't like their government or what it stands for and from what I know neither do most Iranians. let the politicians from all sides lock themselves up in a room and either beat the crap out of each other or kill each other,not our kids.
Thank you Rick for a great show and paving the road to undrestanding. Shame on the fear and war mongers who did not want us to see this.
Tony M.
SLC, UT USA 01/29/2009
Thanks for a wonderful program, it brought back many memories. Having lived in Tehran from '77-78 and attending the 4th and 5th grades at the American School in Tehran it peaked my interest to go back and see the country as it is now. I had the opportunity to see most of the sights you visited back before the revolution. My parents and I never felt any hatred toward us from any Iranian, we lived 2 blocks from the Shah's Palace in Niveran, went hiking into the mountains above Tehran on weekends, bought bread from the bakery above our street on the squatters hill.
I helped with the building of neighboring homes ever watched over by Mehda the foreman like one of his sons, I had tea with the workers as well as eating raw onions. During the summer months my Mother and the American neighbors wife would make ice in coolwhip containers for the workers, they politely brought the empties back each evening and when one would get hurt the American Dr and his wife would patch them up. When the revolution began my parents and the neighbors decided to have an Octoberfest for 50 but the law allowed only 3 people to be together at one time. My Father went with our landlord to get permission from the Police and while at the Police station it was attacked, overthrown by a religious mob and re taken by the Police without a shot being fired. Permission was granted but the party had to end by curfew at 9pm. At 7pm we were visited by 2 men in tribal clothing with AK-47's to check that the papers were in order, the party went off without a hitch and all made it home safely.
Allan Adam <email>
Charlotte, NC USA 01/29/2009
Iran
Rick, I just watched the Iran show again. You did a great job. If governments were as good as their people we would all have much less trouble. With our new President maybe we will have a chance to change. Keep it up, Rick. You have a great travel show. Try to get the Iran show into our schools. Balanced and factual reporting is needed regarding the sore areas of our foreign policy.
John Mark Landrey <email>
Bass Lake, CA USA 01/29/2009
Iran
Rick, thank you for putting together such a great and important show. I think it will help to accomplish what governmental diplomacy alone is likely to fail at, which is bringing people from two very different cultures to an understanding and appreciation of one another. While watching, I couldn't help but notice again and again how very much alike we are and my fears about the extreme views of Iranians began to simply melt away. I'm feeling a renewed sense of hope that we can have peaceful relations with Iran. Great work in bringing this hope to our two countries. In one stroke you have become an important ambassador.
Rick V.
Seattle, WA USA 01/29/2009
Iran Conversation
I found myself on my way to bed tonight for more than an hour! I couldn't peel my eyes off of Rick Steves' in Iran.
I found myself feeling moved in a way i haven't felt in so long. Thirteen years ago i was privileged to spend my 7,8,and 9th grade in Frankfurt, while my family lived "off the German economy." (My father worked in the private sector for a german company.) This experience changed my life, and ever since i have felt i had a connection to the rest of the world.
I consider myself very well informed (thanks to MPR and my region's other independent news sources,) on current global events and modern history. This was until tonight. I was blown away by how little i really know of Iran- a lesson in humility for sure.
Thank you for presenting this extremely complex country and it's culture in such a real manner. I feel a smile come to my face each time i think of Rick expressing our desire to have friendship and to share love between the people of our nations, despite whatever shenanigans our governments will get into.
Rick Steves' Europe has always brought me the comfort of home that i may now only know in my favorite memories. I applaud your courage to confront this new subject and wish continued success in bringing this unknown and perhaps misunderstood region into the living rooms and subsequently the lives of our communities.
Thanks for the Excellent Work!
Ellen Gagner <email>
Minneapolis, MN USA 01/28/2009
Iran
Excellent excellent show that I just stumbled upon. Have many friends from Iran who have told me about all these places and it came alive in one of the best documentary/travelogue shows I have seen. This should be mandatory viewing for all Americans including our leaders...people have such a distorted view of this country and its people. I had just finished reading The Ayatollah Begs to Differ" and this brought everything to life for me. When does the tour leave???
Kathy D
Edina, Mn USA 01/28/2009
Iran
An excellent program about a country and people we need to understand. Well done!
Adam
Minneapolis, MN USA 01/28/2009
Iran on PBS
I stumbled across the program on Iran and was overjoyed at the richness and the simple lesson that we are more alike than we are different. Could we please send this to the members of Congress and the idealogues who insist that we shouldn't talk to the leaders of Iran? It was an incredible program. How you gonna top this one, Rick?
Thank you, thank you and peace.
Marcia Krueger <email>
Young America, MN USA 01/28/2009
Iran Special
Rick's Iran special was fantastic! I have a good education and have traveled some, but I could not believe how little I actually knew about Iran. Rick's philosophy about travel as education was never so well illustrated as in this program. Plus it was also wonderful to see something on television that was truly enlightening. Well done, Rick and thank you.
Margaret
Bethlehem, PA USA 01/28/2009
Iran Conversation
Iran was by far, the most outstanding and beautiful cultured country I've so far, seen on Rick Steves travels. Oh, how I wished to have been there! Loved PERSIAN stories my father would share with us in South America! The older people are delightful, nevermind, the young & hip!
Leila Singh <email>
New York, NY USA 01/28/2009
Kudos!
Fabulous production on Iran - I couldn't leave the television for the entire hour! I learned so many things that I previously did not know about this fascinating society. Particularly encouraging was the fact that Iranians want to pursue friendship with us Americans. I also enjoyed the fact that they welcomed Steve into their home and laid out a full dinner spread. It makes me want to believe even more that despite language, culture, politics, etc., that those of us across the world aren't as different as we might think. Also, many thanks to TPT2 (PBS affiliate in Minnesota) for broadcasting this program.
Keep up the great work, Rick!
Anthony <email>
Plymouth, MN USA 01/28/2009
Love for each other
I was just going tru my channels and saw the show and it was very touching to see that we are all 1 people and we should work on our diffrences great show Ricky
Vinde <email>
brooklyn, NY USA 01/28/2009
Iran
THANK YOU, THANK YOU & THANK YOU! The video on Iran was outstanding! Just finished watching it and was so pleased to know the Iranian people like Americans, and America! Rick, you would be a terrific Ambassador! Please continue your work, I just love your shows, I am a dedicated fan because there is really nothing on TV that is worthwhile watching, except your travels. Please don't stop. I love all of them and you and your crew do a fantastic job! Sincerely,Rose Battalio
Rose Battalio <email>
East Meadow, NY USA 01/28/2009
Misleading
Rick Stevens' Iran was nothing but an incomprehensive tourist guide to Iran.
Sure Iran is beautiful and Iranians are kind but this presentation is far far from the real state of affairs in Iran today.
The shrewd portrayal of Iran as a happy rosy place to visit is quite misleading.
For the cameramen to have their equipment out freely like that (in mosques, streets,...)you need special permits from the Iranian authorieties and you have obviously made sure to make them happy to ensure maybe a follow-up visit?
The women started to fix their hair covers when they noticed your camera crew filming them not because they were trying to stay modest, but because they are being terrorized on a daily basis by the religious police and they were afraid of punishment and retribution in case your films were confiscated by the Iranian authorities.
Ofcourse why should anyone care about all the human rights violations and misery when you can freely buy spices, carpets and chit chat with girls!
Very disappointing.
Tina
New York, NY USA 01/28/2009
Iran
We've been studying Ancient Persia in this grade 12 Comparative Civilizations course. We all decided to watch the show and talk about it in class the next day. Everyone found it a great addition to our studies. The Persian kids in the class were thrilled with the opportunity to show off Iran and the rest of the class learned what it's like to be there. We got a kick out of the parade of snapshots at the end! Thanks for your work! The spirit with which you approach travel is a positive addition to international dialogue. Cheers and thanks
M. Griffiths' Civilizations Class <email>
West Vancouver, BC Canada 01/28/2009
Travel to Iran
Rick, awesome job! nobody could've done a better job. Finally, someone had enough guts to give Iran a try. It is a beautiful country with so much to offer from natural beauty to friendly people all with a common interest "peace". That's all they want. I have travled there several times without any issues. The news media always make it so scary to travelers but none of it is true. I have felt so safe there and only have possitve experience. Beleive me, there are much much unsafer countries to travel to than Iran. Happy travel everybody. Sara
Sara
Seattle, wa USA 01/28/2009
Wonderful country to visit
I lived in Iran for 4 years in the 70's and have traveled there 5 times since 2001. I have never had an unfriendly moment, and when I identify myself as an American the friendliness just increases! I only wish more Americans would feel comfortable exploring this amazing country. Even though I hate wearing the headscarf and coat, I travel there whenever it is possible
Susan Sprachman <email>
NJ USA 01/28/2009
Great job depicting Iran in a human way
Thank you for a good show about Iranians and the history of Iran despite the negative comments you faced in US. I am persian american and especially loved that you did mention the CIA's involvment in imprisonment of Mr. Mussadiq, whom I believe would have been the best leader for Iran. I too believe a war w/ Iran is not the best choice. But in order to change the regime, I think US must once again interfere in Iran. Overall, Iran has a rich history but not as much sightseeing as European countries such as Italy. I loved the show and wish the best for it. It is sad especially for Iran that our govment. dont' get along! Your show might be a step forward. Thanks....
Anahita
CA USA 01/28/2009
Iran
I just ordered 3 copies of the Iran DVD and am so thrilled it is available. All I can say is Wow! This was such a wonderful depiction of this rich land and country and so balanced in it's presentation. I am American married to an Iranian physician for 34 years.
I saw the before and after (Revolution) Iran myself.
I was one of those miniskirted women in Tehran in the mid-70's, only later to go to Iran in full "coverup" style of dress in the 90's. I learned Farsi because I truly love my husband's family and wanted to be able to communicate with them. I am hopeful that with our new Obama Administration we can open up the dialogue with Iran's leaders.
This portrait of Iran was such a wonderful tribute to this country and it'speople. They are good people and they deserve to live in comfort and peace. If anyone wants to plan a group trip there sometime I can communicate pretty well, so keep me in the loop. Thank you Rick.
Linda Sooriash <email>
Jacksonville, FL USA 01/28/2009
Good Job
Mr. Steves I always make time to watch your shows on PBS stations,But I came across your special quite by accident, and I am very happy that I did. I often find your shows very informative. This time however for an Iranian American that visits his motherland almost every year I found your depiction, despite all restrictions, and limitations that presumably were imposed, well balanced and free of any predetermined judgements.A rather clear reflection of reality. Perhaps this program would help further a productive dialoge between the two nations who have a lot more in common than they know.
Again Thank you.
Abdolah M.
Irvine, CA USA 01/28/2009
Rick Steves' Iran
Wonderful Job. At least there is one American who is not biased about this great culture. America should understand that Iran is many hundred fold older and rich in culture. It is high time that Americans know more about this great nation and its great people and learn a lot from its richness in culture. Keep up the good work Rick
Altaf
Toledo, Ohio USA 01/28/2009
Just watched the broadcast - well done! Thank goodness Rick mustered the courage to visit this mysterious (to many of us) land. As usual, we are reminded that people are people the world over with very similar hopes and fears. Bravo!!
Steve
Waconia, MN USA 01/28/2009
Iran show
Just a note to say what a wonderful and informative show on Iran. I have always enjoyed your shows but this time you have out done yourself, thank you for peek behind what seemed such a mysterious veil of the middle east. Keep up the great work!
K P Miller
Pittsburgh, PA USA 01/28/2009
Rick Steves' Iran
I just saw Rick Steves' Iran on our local PBS in Pittsburgh. What a wonderful program. Thank you for doing this kind of much needed program.
Sharon <email>
Pittsburgh, PA USA 01/28/2009
Rick Steve's Iran
I just watched the last half of Rick Steve's Iran program. It was absolutely fascinating. Thank you for doing this meaningful work. I think it is just what the world needs NOW, over and over again. Maybe knowledge and understanding will really overcome the fear and mistrust that threatens all of us. Rick, your work is good service to the world.
Thank you again.
Jeff Bartels
Chicago, IL USA 01/28/2009
Iran
A magnificent production. All of the creativity and visual poetry of the well known and loved travel series turned toward a documentary style effort to further the understanding of cultures beyond our own. I would only hope that it touched the political leaders of both countries and others around the world.
Tom Taras <email>
Elmhurst, IL USA 01/28/2009
Iran
Just finished watching Rick Steves Iran. What a beautiful country & beautiful people.
I wondered, with the meditative lifestyles.Is their rate of stress illnesses, maybe lower than us in the US.
Karen
Homer Glen, IL USA 01/28/2009
Jewish Tourists
Will Iran grant tourist visas to Jews? Is it true that Jews in Iran are required to wear yellow armbands?
Robert
Highland park, IL USA 01/28/2009
Iran Conversation
I really enjoyed this show. I was married to a Persian an lived in Tehran from 1973 to 1974.Persians are very friendly and warm.
Annette Hampton
Olympia, 98502 USA 01/28/2009
soccer team
AP press release
http://ca.sports.yahoo.com/sow/news?slug=ap-iran-forbiddensoccer&prov=ap&type=lgns
This is Iran's Government not the Iranian people. I have to hand it to them for holding the game knowing the consequences.
sam
greenville, sc USA 01/27/2009
Understanding Iran
Thank you Rick Steves for offering Western viewers alternative images of Iran. To understand this country, which some have deemed a rogue nation, we need to move beyond the perspectives of pundits, politicians and even the memoirists whose books are mainly focused on the early days of the Islamic Revolution. People to people diplomacy through travel is a model others can follow.
Meghan Nuttall Sayres <email>
Spokane, WA USA 01/27/2009
Iran
Very ballanced and objective. I love Iran.
Haleh
Louisville, ky USA 01/27/2009
Iran
Well, you did it. You showed America that Iranians are human....deeply human. They are our brothers and sisters. How could it be otherwise? Nothing like a good meal and a walk in the city park to dispel the demons of misunderstanding. Well done...and many thanks.
Gary Sabourin <email>
Cincinnati, OH USA 01/27/2009
Iran
My whole idea of what Iran was like was changed for the best after seeing your show. I was really shocked at how friendly the Iranian people are. Thank you.
Cynthia <email>
Richmond, VA USA 01/27/2009
Thank You!
Thank you so much for this documentary. The country is absolutely beautiful, as well as its people. I didn't realize how rich in history the region is. I would love to visit for firsthand study of the history, and I would love to meet the people. They seem so kind and generous, and open to Americans. They seem to understand that it is not the "Americans" that are the problem, it is who is in control of our government that is the problem.
Lisa
Maple Grove , MN USA 01/27/2009
Iran Show Impressions
Just finished watching your show. Awesome! The thought of moving forward with understanding and respect is spot on.
No one comes to the discussion with spotless hands, but there is a flame of hope presented here. Thank-You!
Jack Winson <email>
Providence Forge, VA USA 01/27/2009
Thank you so much for this episode. As I watched I thought that this should be shown to any American who fears Iranians. As an Iranian American I was deeply moved by how truthful this film was, especially as I saw places I have visited myself. Also I sincerely agree that the U.S. and Iran are very similar and should be allies both between their people and governments.
Daniel
St. Paul, MN USA 01/27/2009
programs such as this could change the world. how wonderful it was. it showed such love. wonderful!!!!!!!
carolyn bledsoe
warsaw, ky USA 01/27/2009
Rick Steve's IRAN
Rick, I am a 21 year male from Kentucky and tonight was the first time I have watched your show. Tonight's show was your tour of Iran. It is a wonderful and beautiful country with wonderful and beautiful people. The rich heritage shared by all Iranians is enviable including the delicious meal you shared with the family towards the end of the show. THANK YOU for providing a view and understanding of Iran most Americans, especially in my age group and region, are not exactly privy to. There is no need in explaining the misconception our nation holds towards Iran, however, I was extremely pleased to hear what Iranians my age think about Americans; the feeling is mutual! I was also stricken when one young Iranian woman said governments sometimes have problems but the people are never at war. I cannot agree more. I hope all American's have a new conception of Iran and its people and maybe then we can all coexist peacefully with a mutual respect and admiration for each other's culture. Thanks once again Rick.
Andrew Howard <email>
Harlan, KY USA 01/27/2009
Iran
Rick,
I really enjoyed your program about Iran, but I found it a little bit subjective. If you would like to know details of the subjective parts please respond to my comment by sending me an e-mail and I make a list of the subjective parts.
Mehran <email>
Louisville, KY USA 01/27/2009
Iran
Rick:
God bless you and all who helped you in finally revealing the loving kindness of the people of Iran. I pray that President Obama sees this fine production and gains a better understanding in his quest for meaningful change. Thank you!
Edward Dobbs <email>
Minneapolis, MN USA 01/27/2009
i love iran
I was born in the U.S, but I go to Iran every year. I loved watching this vedio and learning more about Iran.
Hediyeh
Louisville, KY USA 01/27/2009
i just watch your documentary on tv from louisville,KY with my family and we loved it. im an iranian and im proud of you and your job.
it was awesome!
yes!iran is a very beautiful country with really lovly and friendly people that really love americans.
i gotta say you did a great job!
thnak you
and i want to know how can i show this documantary to some other people
i mean where can i get a copy of that?
elnaz <email>
kassaie, ky USA 01/27/2009
Very Unbiased
I learned a lot from this program even though I was born and raised in Iran. I also enjoyed your collection of photographs posted on Iranian.com a few weeks ago.
thanks again.
Khodahafez.
Reza <email>
Louisville, KY USA 01/27/2009
Iran
Just watched the show on travel in Iran. Thank you for such a wonderful and complete look at this country. My family lived there when I was a child when my dad worked at the American Embassy. The experience was so formative on my outlook on life. I have vivid memories of a beautiful, mysterous place, of the hospitable, lovely people and of how amazing it was to live in the midst of such an ancient and great culture. Thank you!
Linda Miller <email>
Minneapolis, MN USA 01/27/2009
Iran the Beautiful
Being American Iranian living here in Louisville, Ky I wish everyone I knew could have watched it with me. The film was very informative.. I'm so proud of who I am and my fathers history. I cant wait to visit myself one day!!
Laila Elaheh <email>
Louisville, Ky USA 01/27/2009
3, 2, 1...
... and boom! - I fell in love with the Iranian people. This was a really liberating and enjoyable program to watch. Especially so because to a person who is a people-lover (and not a nationalist), the beauty of the Iranian people is very evident. I want to purchase this video. I want to go to Iran.
Phil
Richmond, VA USA 01/27/2009
Rick Steves’ Iran
I loved this show on Iran, your best ever. Very informative and so glad you got out of Europe and explored other cultures.
Nandini <email>
Saint Paul, MN USA 01/27/2009
Learning about Iran...
Really enjoyed your talk at the Commonwealth Club in Palo Alto on Iran! As someone who has been on 4 of your European tours it really is interesting and enlightening to hear about Iran and your experience there - especially since Iran is a country I am only familiar with through our mainstream media. Since my early 20s I have always gained or learned something new through your perspectives on travel and I have to thank you for bringing Iran to the U.S. in a most positive light. Your lecture and your travel journal have opened my eyes to another country with a fascinating culture and history! I am looking forward to viewing your program when it is broadcast in my area again and to reading your new book, "Travel as a Political Act," when it comes out in April!
Amy
Santa Cruz, CA USA 01/27/2009
Bravo!
What a great show! My American wife and I just saw the much anticipated Rick Steves' IRAN tonight on NPT (Nashville Public Television). I found his respectful portrayal of Iran, its culture and people extremely moving and satisfying. This was such an honest and genuine documentary. We found the show unbiased, non-political, eye opening, enlightening, entertaining, and above all superb. Even I, having been born and raised in Iran, learned a few things from the show. Rick has a natural gift of “getting it”. He is capable of totally immersing himself in the country and culture he is covering while at the same time catering to the American viewer- a win win situation. My wife and I recently got to experience his gifts first hand during our trip to Europe. Rick’s books, guides, and podcasts enriched our experience and educated us. This show just like the rest of his shows was shot beautifully. The narration is fantastic and the on camera interviews with ordinary people are priceless. As an Iranian, I totally saw the connection he managed to make between himself and the Iranian people. He "got them". It's simple. As an Iranian, I am extremely pleased and grateful for it. We need more shows like this, for to me there is nothing greater than the misconception that exists here about Iran and its people. We need more dialogue between the two countries, especially between the people where it counts most. Change comes from individuals and there's nothing better than one's personal experience and knowledge. Such shows as this one are definitely stepping stones towards those goals. We look forward to our trip to Iran. Can't wait to see Rick write a guidebook on Iran. His other guidebooks are gems.
Thank you Rick and God Bless!
Pouria <email>
Nashville, TN USA 01/27/2009
Rick Steves' Iran
Amazing! I could have cried watching this travelogue documentary. It changed my perception of a country I believed disliked Americans. It opened my heart to such an amazing country. I am at a lost for words because I am so emotionally moved by this show. I have enormous love and respect for Iran.
Lee-Ann
Boston, MA USA 01/27/2009
Wonderful job
Great show. I envy you Mr. Rick Steves!! I am Iranian, and I left the country when I was a child. I have since been back a couple of times, but did not have the chance to visit any other cities except for Tehran! You, however, were lucky enough to witness the vast beauty of our country in person, and I feel blessed that I could see it through your eyes. As for the negative comments you are receiving here, please ignore them because they are coming from the ignorant! unfortunately, we have some of them, but than again which nation doesn't have ignorant people? I have watched this show twice, and I cannot wait to see it again! someone made a comment about the thumbs up (and I must admit, that I didn't fully read their comment), and I'd just like to point out that Iranians do know that the thumbs up is not an offensive gesture outside of Iran, and I am sure when you received the thumbs up, it wasn't meant as a rude gesture. Indeed, from my last visit which was only this past summer, I learned that they use the same hand gesture as we do here for the same purpose...so...Once again, thank you! or as you put it so very endearingly: MAMNOON VERY MUCH!! :o)
Sara <email>
Vancouver, BC Canada 01/26/2009
Rick Steeves in Iran
Absolutely beautiful documentary. I have not been to Iran in over twenty four years and after watching this I want to go and visit my country. Great Job. Governments all over the world are corrupt but people are the same everywhere. To humanity and to peace. Thanks Rick.
Sherwin
Vancouver, B.C. Canada 01/26/2009
Thank you
I happened on this wonderful show last night. As a boy of five, during the time of the Shah, my family and I moved from Canada to Iran for a couple of years in the late 1970s. It was an incredible experience and your programme helped me recapture my memories of that wonderful country. My hat is off to you Rick!
It is my hope that you could make a second programme with some hints and tips for how one could travel to and through Iran. Here's hoping!
Thanks again for letting me relive my youth!
Angus
Port Clements, BC Canada 01/26/2009
Thank you
Rick, your show was beautiful. Thank you for taking this trip with all the obstacles in your way. I hope next time you visit Iran you get a chance to go to my hometown of Sari (in northern Iran) and taste the best caviar in the world.
Naciem
San Jose, Ca USA 01/26/2009
Rick Steves' on Iran
As a 67 year old, retired psychologist, I want you to know that [as much as I've seen and read of your many travels] I have never been moved to tears by the sheer joy of getting to see a culture (and its people) come alive in a way that is so much different than what we get to see on the nightly news. This program on Iran should be shown in every senior high school in America.
Steve Perlowski <email>
Des Moines, IA USA 01/26/2009
I loved the Iran show. Great Job.
Thanks a lot for the show on Iran. I loved it very much since I am an Iranian American woman. I'd also like to add my opinion, which is that I think it is really ironic that Iran has suffered so much from intervening powerful countries such as US and Britain and yet people of Iran are not hateful towards American people. Yet, Americans in US can be so prejudice and ignorant about Iran when in fact Iran has not intervened or harmed them in any way through out history. Also, as I recall persia saved the Jew slaves thousands of years ago. If it was not for persians, Jews would not have survived. Read the history because it is the truth no one in US wants to believe....Again, I really loved the show on Iran and got goose bumps while watching the show. Also, I was very suprised that Rick Steves went to Iran despite all the nasty emails he got from Americans!LoL...Rick Steves is a very kind and courages man and I admire him for that. Thanks again Rick. Your're my HERO.
Anahita
Orange County, CA USA 01/26/2009
Thank You for Making This Episode
Hey, to everyone who worked on this episode, thank you so much for trying to open people's minds, views and understandings towards a culture that's so in the dark and to which we have so many misconceptions about because of our lack of media portrayal and interest in this beautiful country's rich culture, background, and history. It's a shame more people will not see this and share the same opportunity. Although, sadly, the two governments of America and Iran may have their differences, I believe that a common goal of peace resonates between the countries's peoples, and for those who do not want peace, I believe many minds can be swayed through media influences and changes in the diplomatic relationships between the two. I've been to Iran twice during my youth to visit family there in Tehran and absolutely loved the culture, and its people are some of the warmest you can ever meet. If it seems now as if much of those in power in Iran are anti-American and anti-western influences, I just want all to know that there is a rising movement taking place in Iran with the young people, intellectuals, and students, and in the future, I know the attitudes will change to favor western culture and influence, we just need to wait for the change to take place. I know if both countries work towards it, we can live at peace with Iran, and take from them a great appreciation for their knowledge, history, arts and culture, as can they from us, without having to sacrifice either either of our own cultures, values and beleifs. Here's to a hopeful future.. Thanks!
Dara <email>
Holmdel, NJ USA 01/26/2009
Iran
They are just like us--we are the same!
Steve <email>
San Jose, ca USA 01/25/2009
Rick Steves' report is spot on and NOT FALSE!
Rick Steves is not stupid. What is so false about this show? Did he even say nice things about the Islamic government? No. The average people he picked out on the streets and in the villages were false, too? No. The beauty of Esfahan, Shiraz, etc. is false? No. Should some of you who don't even know how to spell and write proper English be taken seriously? No. Do you need to watch the show again to see that this show is only trying to tell us that Iranians are generally good people and that they are very much like other peace loving people around the world? Yes. Is it false to say that Iranians have a rich and proud history? No. It's not convincing to the rest of us to just say that this show was false. Tell us exactly what was false about it.
Shervin
01/25/2009
Great show on Iran
If there is any hope for the governments of our world to learn to live together, it will start with programs and exchanges which will lead to better understanding between citizens of our countries. This program was one of the best I have seen and although I realize there were limitations put on the recording, the genuine and interesting culture of Iran came shining through. What beautiful people. I found the same to be the case when I served in Viet Nam and in every other foreign country I have visited. Great show!
Paul Jones
East Troy, WI USA 01/25/2009
ETERNAL TRUTHS, OPEN EYES AND BALANCE
When I saw THIS show in the listings you can bet I was not going to miss it. Thank you for going outside your usual box.
We need governments and I guess we need religions but you have again proved that people arrive in the world in a native state of being pretty darn nice and are segregated and divided by these two entities.
The importance of your Iran show is that from and about Israel, a really small country with a population about the same as greater Buenos Aires we have a constant flow of information, to the point that there's a commercial on my morning radio news 5 days a week taking their point of view. From and about Iran, the size of Alaska and with a population twice that of Canada we hear very little indeed.
The more one travels the more one realizes that we all want the same things for ourselves and our families and that killing in the name of religion or government is never a good solution.
Ned Rankin
Oakland, Ca USA 01/25/2009
Rick Steves' Iran Show
Thank you for doing this show in spite of the restrictions you were under. What a beautiful country Iran is. The people you showed on the program were interesting and friendly. The more we know about the countries of the world (and they know about us), the better chance we have for world peace. Great job -- you richly deserve the "citizen diplomat" award you are receiving.
Madeleine
Durham, NC USA 01/25/2009
Rick Steve's Iran
Thank you for airing your visit to Iran. Great episode, very enlightening and brilliant photography of the countryside, architecture and citizens. I love PBS and your show! Kudos!
Ty Ellington
St. Louis, MO USA 01/25/2009
Iran
Rick, You just gave me a wonderful birthday present today! I still have goosebumps after viewing your Iran program! I had no idea about the beauty of Iran and was surprised at the openness of the people on the streets. Love the still photos taken with the people. Thank you very much.
Barbara
St. Louis, MO USA 01/25/2009
Iran
I found the segment on Iran very interesting and enlightening. It is about time that we saw a balanced view on Iran. There is more to the country than we saw in this one hour report. In particular the northern part of Iran along the cost of Caspian, with its rain forests, should have also been included to give a better picture of the vast diversity of climate and scenery in Iran. Maybe we can look forward to Rick’s next trip.
Farrokh <email>
San Carlos, CA USA 01/25/2009
Iran
Thank you so much Rick. We have such a love for Iran and the people, and the culture. My husband lived there for seven years and wrote his PhD book about Persian music. Your documentary is SO needed in the USA at this time. We were in tears seeing Iran again. We hope it doesn't change too much. We love all your episodes and get good advice from you for our travels, but the Iran segment was most touching.
Katherine St. John <email>
Salt Lake City, UT USA 01/25/2009
Iran
I just watched your show on Iran and LOVED IT! I rarely go to this length to comment, but I felt compelled. It was enlightening, fascinating, and educational. It proved once again that people are just people the world over. It was beautiful and has given me an unbiased glimpse at a beautiful country and people. Thank you.
Claudia
Ocean Park, WA USA 01/25/2009
Iran
Kudos! We want to be on the list for the first tour.
David Page
Vancouver, WA USA 01/25/2009
thumbs-up & finger
Thumbs-up in Iran, is like giving finger; What's the equivalent of giving a real thumbs-up then?
Ceacilia Bledoeg <email>
Portland, OR USA 01/25/2009
Rick's Iran documentary
It is wonderful to finally watch a well balanced documentary on Iran that simply punched through thirty years of American media coverage on Iran through Israeli/AIPAC lenses. This led to breakdown of diplomacy between the two nations through years and its effects on an untold number of Iranians like myself, who suddenly found ourselves trapped in the US as students then (and later as citizens), that suffered tremendous abuse by our host country. One unforgettable one was (and perhaps still is) complexities for Iranian student's visas that prevented me to see my family for nearly twenty years. In all these long years it seemed that no amount of reasoning would convince the Americans who engaged me in hot discussions/debates about the realities of Iran and Iranians. They simply could not relate to what was not shown on their TVs. Rick's show managed in one hour what I have been trying to accomplish for nearly 30 years. Though the abuses still continue today in our work environments, border crossings, Immigrations offices and so on, but I hope that Rick’s documentary would help to broaden Americans understandings of Iran and Iranians not only on personal level but also to a level to question the US government's ad hoc policies to bring about changes on diplomatic levels.
Thank you so much rick!
Incidentally, for those who are interested to quickly scoop up on Iranian history, art and architecture, may I strongly suggest to Google YouTube for ‘IRAN: Seven Faces of a Civilization- Part 1 to 8’ or go here: http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-5356229498218843348 .
Peashee <email>
Ann Arbor, MI USA 01/25/2009
Superb Job
Rick,
First, let me thank you for your courage to go to Iran, and create this unbiased, non-political film about People of Iran. You have touched on many of Iranian traits - hospitality, kindness to strangers, laughter, and charm. I have watched you program for years now and this by far was one of your best. I wish continued success for you and your team.
Regards,
Tony S.
Tony
Seattle, WA USA 01/24/2009
Rick's Iran
Rick,
Thank you for your honest, genuine documentary on Iran. You are an intelligent man & your crew and yourself in 60 minutes gave us an informative knowledge of a beautiful historic civilization. You made us realize that through communication and learning the cultures mutual understanding can be reached. DO NOT be disheartened by the few comments of the narrow minded. You all did a great job. You all acted as ambassadors for the US. The propoganda is on both sides of the Iranian & the US governments however you displayed that the people have no animosity toward one another & you portrayed that intelligently.
Rick thank you for the enlightenment and I WILL BE CONSIDERING THE SPRING BREAK IN GORGEOUS IRAN WITH MY FAMILY, thanks to you & your crew Rick Steve for opening our eyes.
KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK AS USUAL, YOUR A SMART MAN. Thank you for the awesome program on historical beautiful Persia. The world is not all about western domination & zionist beliefs, there are other cultures and civilization with deep roots that have been around well before we came into the scene and we must learn and respect one another.
THANK YOU RICK. TOTALLY FASCINATING & ONE OF A KIND DOCUMENTARY. All my friends & their families loved it too.
Jason & Sharon Sullivan
Rockville, MD USA 01/24/2009
Amazing job
Jason & Sharon Sullivan could not have said it better, their words made me very happy.
I thank you and your team for the job well done and look forward that one day the two nations can have normal relations without outside control. We are all humans, living under the same roof and I am sure we can work things out.
Alex Keyhan <email>
Sacramento, CA USA 01/24/2009
Rick Steves' Iran
Thank you Mr. Steves and your entire staff. This was a wonderful segment showing the real Iranians to the American audience. As an Iranian-American I am so pleased that many of my non-Iranian friends have been sharing their praise for your show to me. We have always trusted your travel advice for European travel. This year when we travel to Shiraz and Esfahan we will be reminded of your show. Thank you for showing the beauty and paradoxes of Iran to many.
Azita <email>
NJ USA 01/24/2009
Iran
I enjoyed your travelogue about Iran very much. Keep up the good work.
Wes Gordon <email>
Charlotte, NC USA 01/24/2009
Iran
Thank you for a magnificant program on Iran. The people are truely beautiful and the so is the country. You have positively influenced my perceptions, "people to people". Thank you.
Andrea
Ann Arbor, Michig USA 01/24/2009
false report from Rick Steves
false report from Rick Steves in his documentary on Iran made the following comments:
The Shah was a dictator and his regime very corrupt.
During Shah's time thousands of people were killed and tortured.
Khomeini brought values back to Iranians' culture.
Women in Iran do poses important posts in every sectors and there are more women students in Universities than men.
He portrayed the present Iran as a safe and hospitable paradise and not one mention of the plights of Iranians for past 30 years
arshan <email>
toronto, ont canada 01/24/2009
wrong
@ Ashran,
My friend, you are wrong .... Shah was installed by external powers ... as well as Khomeini ...
But Iran took a step back under Komeini and no one with sound mind can deny that argument.
Rick was kind enough to show that no matter what regime is installed ... people are people ... people are kind .. selfless and love others.
When I watched this program I saw that unlike us in the US others do enjoy their lives, even if there isnt enough food on the table ...
That speaks volumes ...
Alex
Sacramento, CA USA 01/24/2009
Thank you Rick
Dear Rick,
Thank you for the lovely educational show you provided for Americans. I would love to buy your DVD and share it with my friends. Unfortunately some of them were not able to watch the program. This show gives a new perspective to those who are not educated about the country and people. As an Iranian-American I would love to see more people knowledgable about the great country of Iran, the culture and the fact that we humen are having more in common than beign different. I hope to see more shows about different cultures and countries from Rick.
Toki
Toki <email>
Durham, NC USA 01/24/2009
Assyrian People
Rick this documentary was done extraordinarily well in presenting all peoples living in Iran however it lacked any mention whatsoever of the Assyrian people who have lived in that region for over 6500 years. You mentioned a number of different cultures that live in Iran but left out a vital ethnic group that numbers in the tens of thousands. This ancient Christian people have attributed immensely to Iranian civilization as seen at Persepolis with the winged bulls. Under the Achaemind Persia, Assyrians were dominant sculptors, artists, and frontline soldiers in battle. Much of the visual representation of Persia was in fact a model based off Ancient Assyrian art and Sculpture as seen with the winged bulls and the soldiers. Nonetheless, despite this lack of mention I enjoyed the broadcast. I myself am an Iranian Assyrian whose ancestry line goes back to the foundation of the empire and I was a little disappointed when you did not mention my peoples history at least in passing. Best Regards.
Isaac
Turlock, Ca USA 01/24/2009
Iran
Thank you for the great show. I loved the historical buildings.
Mahmood
Seattle, WA USA 01/24/2009
Beautiful job, Rick. Many thanks!!
Rick, thank you for your intelligent, eye-opening documentary on Iran. This is perhaps the most positive show about Iran that I have seen in the U.S.-And I've lived here for over 30 years!
While I understand the frustration of many with the government of Iran, myself included, it amazes me, thanks to the help of American mainstream media, that some of the comments here clearly show the extent of the negative stereotypes, which are so deeply etched in the minds of many Americans. Due to this lack of understanding, no amount of positive images and evidentiary depictions, which genuinely show that most Iranians who happen to be young and do not have animosity towards the west and Israel, is going to unfortunately change the mind of true haters, when they have decided to close their minds to the truth. As an American citizen who has traveled all over the United States, I am appalled that your entire show is filtered in the minds of some, who seemed to have only noticed the Iranian government sponsored anti-American and anti-Israel banners that have nothing to do with the majority of the Iranian people and the message that this show was trying to give across. It is also ludicrous to think that this was a propaganda video, sponsored by the government of Iran to somehow brainwash Americans about Iran, as if one show is going to do this. It is comforting to see that their comments are in the minority.
I appreciate all the intelligent and kind comments about Iran from those who are not misplacing their deep-seated anger towards Iran, Iranians and perhaps others who are not like them. You can boycott a government but why boycott an entire nation? It's too bad that you did not mention that Iranians, the only people from a predominantly Moslem nation to do so, poured into the streets of Tehran after the 9/11 tragedies and held candlelight vigils in honor of ALL of the victims.
I urge everyone to not only study Iran and Iranians in more detail but confront their fears and stereotypes about all cultures. Those who hate are very lonely souls and have embarrassed all Americans by their misguided comments that are aimed at promoting strife, rather than world peace. I am not surprised at all that an intelligent, well-informed man, such as yourself, visited Iran. It is not even considered brave anymore for most Americans to visit Iran. Many Americans have visited Iran before and after the hostage crisis and continue to visit to this date. Overwhelmingly, these Americans (Christians and Jewish alike) come back and mention the warmth, friendliness, generosity and hospitality of the Iranian people. Thanks for being a well-informed class act, Rick! It's because of people such as yourself that I am proud to say that I am not only proud to be Iranian but equally proud, hardworking, taxpaying American, as well. One more thing for those that do not know-- THERE IS NOTHING BUT PRAISE ABOUT PERSIA (IRAN) IN THE BIBLE!! Peace on earth :)
Reza
San Rafael, CA USA 01/24/2009
Iran
Hi Rick, I watch your tv special on Iran and found it to be very fascinating and very rich and beautiful culture. Alot things that you were saying are very much true. One of my biggest dreams is to someday visit Iran. However, I noticed that did not go to the city of Kerman. The best pistachios in the world come from Kerman. Perhaps, the next time you visit Iran, you may want to stop in Kerman for a brief visit. I am American but I speak Farsi very well and I am married to a Iranian for many years.
Dorothy <email>
San Jose, CA USA 01/24/2009
iran
aloha rick, just finished watching your show on iran. you should make it required watching for our government leaders. maybe with barrack as our president we can open a dialogue and mend our differences. thank you so much for your airing of this program. aloha, richard
Richard lau <email>
Wahiawa, Hi USA 01/24/2009
Thank you!
All I can say is WOW and thank you. I stumbled upon the program by happenstance, but luckily it was just beginning. Thank you for the crash-course in the widely-discussed, but largely misunderstood country. Axis of evil? Hardly. I am a high school teacher out here in Hawaii and I would love a copy of this program to show my students.
HawaiiSchoolTeacher
Mililani, HI USA 01/24/2009
Awesome show on Iran!
Thanks for a truly outstanding, educational show about Iran! Please keep up the great work and continue to educate us about this beautiful country and its wonderful people.
Julie
Kauai, HI USA 01/24/2009
Iran Show
A truly great show Rick. Every person in America should see this program. I have been to Iran on work 6 times in the past 3 years. It is a good country in spite of their wacko governance system. Think of Iran as any country if the Pope was in charge. The people are very friendly, very generous and genuine. Except for Shiraz and Persopolis, I have been to places that Rick visted. Esfahan is a fabulous oasis of a place. Rick missed the fact that the beautiful river park that winds through the city, was designed by an American. His grave and memorial is a little to the north of that bridge where Rick spoke to the two young women. Esfahan is a must see place. It is a great tourist bargain at this time. Four hundred year old Imam square is the original Mall of America/West Edmonton Mall. A shoppers bazaar definitely worth visiting. Tehran is a 12 million population jumble. Rick handled the politics just right. The people are not against America and Americans, it is just the wacko politics that keeps a tight rein on things. I run into well educated persons who know America and they want to go to Disneyland. One problem is that there are 20 million peasants who are illiterate so it is all about keeping these people in check and happy. As Rick said, no democracy and there is no such thing as freedom of speech. What I cannot get over is that in the West we are for freedoms and rights but also in law and order. In Iran, they have rules and repression but the average person could care less about law and order. Thus the driving is chaotic and dangerous, garbage is everywhere, a there is no concern for the environment and orderly living. And the country has the highest proportion of heroin addicts in the world. But heaven help you if you show your hair. Go figure.
Alberto
Calgary, Alberta USA 01/24/2009
false report from Rick Steves
My friend Alex i am talking about mullas government not the peoples
Khomeini made iran turn from a great nation in to a great hell hole. hopefully the people of iran will stand up and fight against the mullahs and rebuild iran into the nation it used to be and become united with the other nations of the world
November 4, just three days after Khomeini arranges for students to take over the US embassy
5 million iranian refugees after shah left iran in 1979
over 1 million killed in war iran iraq
heroin addiction is rising in a population of drug users estimated at between 14 million and 20 million
in one month At least 94 people were executed, including at least eight who were under 18
The Mullahs in Iran
The Taliban in Afghanistan Hamas in Palestine Hezbollah in Syria and Lebanon
shah he lavoed his cuntery and his people
arshan <email>
toronto, not USA 01/24/2009
Change
Thank you for showing the true face of the Iranian people. What you probably were not able to capture on tape was the Iranian people's desire for change and their hopes for the demise of the current regime in Iran.
S.Anthony
PLaistow, NH USA 01/23/2009
Iran
Dear Rick,
Thanks you for your program about Iran. I watched it with my American husband and my Iranian-American children. I was so proud. It is truly a new day. I am hopeful for better realtions between our countries. Thank you.
Minoosh
Atlanta, USA 01/23/2009
Agree
I totally agree with:
S.Anthony
PLaistow, NH USA
Brad
Vancouver, BC Canada 01/23/2009
Travel in Iran
Your Iran show was delightful. It was fun watching as you stood at the gates,(so to speak), took a deep breath and said 'Let's see what we shall see.'
I hope you travel back again and again, as you do in Europe, until you have favorites and biases and tips.
I want your traveller's experiences, something that was very thin in this show.
What is it like travelling light? Travelling cheap? Walking? What are the lodging options? What is safe/unsafe? Are there different levels of (for example) health safety in different economic districts? Can you cross the border from Turkey? Etc., Etc.
Congratulations for even thinking of going there. Nice job.
Mark
Orlando, Fl USA 01/23/2009
Iran
Thank you, Rick, for travelling to Iran. My family moved to Iran in 1997 and loved every minute we were there. My husband was involved with building a textile fibers plant outside Isfahan. We travelled incountry as much and as often as we could and met outstanding, cordial, beautiful people everywhere we went. I would love to tell you about a trip I made, alone, to Kharg Island and the family I stayed with (related to one of the Iranian engineers in my husband's group); also about my friends in the bazaar and food stores I came to know and love; the cleaning lady I employed and how we put a door, a window and a floor in the house she shared with her husband and two daughters; I could tell you so many things about Iran and its people and how it ended much too soon for us in 1978. Why? because of religion and governments and their selfishness. It truly broke my heart to leave all the lovely people we had met.
Please go back to Iran and send us more programs. The park you showed beside the river in Isfahan made me cry because our house was very near to that area and we used to enjoy watching the people having fun and enjoying life. I must say I shed a few tears of gratitude that I had the opportunity to live there. Now, if it becomes safe enough for the average tourist to go back, we will be among the first to buy a ticket! Also, see what you can do to make a show in the Stans - khoda hafez!
Judy Lynch <email>
Whitwell, TN USA 01/23/2009
IRAN
Applause!
Well done. THank You. I have seen so many of Rick's Eurpoean shows that I often dont even tune in. I came across this one by default when there was nothing on TV. I was captivated every minute and can not wait to share it with friends. Thank you for showing this side of the world.
It's a new yar and a new spirit. Let's hope we can spread the spirit.
Mary Turnpaugh <email>
Atlanta, GA USA 01/23/2009
Next trip to Iran- Can I go too?
Dear Rick,
Simply Fantastic! Thank you Rick and your entire staff/program! Please do a second one on Iran. Iran is a complex, intriguing country with rich culture and warm/friendly people. It is a country central to the entire stability and peace in the region. And peace will begin by people like you. I am glad that you were able to discover the warmth and closeness of our two peoples. Despite the rhetoric that our politicians use, the people seem so close in heart. Don't they? Let me know if I can be of any assistance. I am very fluent in both Farsi and English. And I would love to volunteer to be part of your team next time you travel to Iran.
Fariborz Farhan <email>
Atlanta, GA USA 01/23/2009
Iran show
Thank you for a fascinating look at a country which, for many Americans, may be difficult to visit. I wish the fine people of Iran the opportunity for more openness and tolerance, particularly from their own government.
Roslyn Raney
Menlo Park, CA USA 01/23/2009
Iran trip
Thanks so much, Rick, for your peace-making trip to Iran. If you need reimbursement for your expenses, post a notice.
We love you!
REY
Atlanta, GA USA 01/23/2009
IRAN program....exceptional!
Your show was delightful. Thank you for showing us the faces of the REAL people of Iran.....friendly, beautiful, cute, and living their lives just like we do. It was enlightening and encouraging to see how they really live their everyday lives. You really outdid yourself with this trip. The media schlockmeisters who peddle ignorance and fear to boost their ratings should be ashamed of themselves. People are just people everywhere. Thanks again. We have gained even more respect for your work.
Jeff and Christy Drake
St. Louis, MO USA 01/23/2009
Iran
I was truly enriched by your tour of Iran. I keep meeting more and more Persian Americans. I appreciate their warmth, intellegence, work ethic, hospitality and the fact thay can love and care about me. That has been so healing for me. I am of Jewish and Christian decent and have studied the Bahai faith as well ( which is not permitted there). That faith was founded in Iran around the mid 1800's. It is nice to feel comfortable publically for the sake of peaceful connections.
Anyway, it was stunning in many aspects.
Linda <email>
Menlo Park, Ca USA 01/23/2009
Iran Trip
Thanks Rick for a great Program. Maybe after watching this people will realize that we so have so much in common with Iranians and we can all avoid the path to war. Well Done and excellent JOB
Regards
Rachid
Rachid
Boston, MA USA 01/23/2009
Excellent tour of Iran! Thank you.
Chris
Ayer, MA USA 01/23/2009
Iran TV show and DVD
Rick -Your journey to Iran, in part because you wanted to know the truth rather than relying upon American government and news media propaganda, reminds me of our trips to the Soviet Union. We also went in part because we wanted to experience first hand a country which also was being propagandistically maligned. On two extensive visits we had much the same experiences as you had in Iran. A moral is, don't trust any government's propaganda and the generally compliant news media, even ours in the U.S. Also, your Iran DVD with the extensive additions is amazing and more that well worth its cost. And even though in your Europe travel series you have been largely non-political, your observations in the Iran TV show and on the DVD get to the heart of the conditions of hostility between the U.S. and Iranian governments. If the politicians would only watch and listen and take them to heart . . .
Thank you!
Jim
South Coast, Oregon USA 01/23/2009
Grateful for the Fresh Insight
My husbband and I have not been able to watch Rick Steve's PBS TV show for 3 years due to our subscriber network. We changed and watched tonight for the first time and were so impressed with this piece. This was so enlightening. We are so grateful to be able to watch again. Thanks.
Cindy MacWhinney <email>
Bakersfield, CA USA 01/23/2009
Hi-Def
I just thoroughly enjoyed this episode. And I want to know: when will you be releasing the Blu-Ray? :) I was so happy you are filming in HD now. Thank you and OPB for a quality HD broadcast. You have spoiled me and now I can't fathom watching a DVD version of this episode. The amazing details of the interiors, the depth and colors... *sigh*
I'll be patient...
Thanks for great work. Much appreciated!
DJ
Portland, OR USA 01/22/2009
Rick Steves' Iran
The Iranian travelogue was a fine depiction of Iranian culture and its young people, especially. I spent nearly 10 years in Iran in 3 different occupations, but had to leave due to intolerance by the Shiite government decades ago. The most discouraging thing is that Iran shut its door to greater world understanding at the time of the revolution, when its Shiite rulers decided to demonize the West and, especially, America. Rick should realize that understanding Iranians would have beeen far easier for thousands of Americans by now, if safe travel opportunities had not come to a screeching halt. This was the work of Iranian zealots who still control the government. American diplomats can't be expected to soften their stances either, when their last involvement in Iran was being imprisoned by a gang of agitators who ransacked the American Embassy with the ultimate blessing of the revered Khomeini. The upshot was turning our embassy into a two-bit, carnival-show museum (Den of Spies). That said, the show did make me wish it were politically and physically safe to return. I have an Iranian wife and child and adored my brilliant father-in-law and very kind, loving mother-in-law. I had hoped to stay in Iran for my entire career--and beyond.
My wife--the Iranian half--enjoyed the show overall too. She did wonder why Rick failed to mention the grand square (Naghsh-e-Jahan) of Esfahan as the birthplace of polo, which the shah watched from his Ali Qapu Palace on the edge of the square. Also, Rick gave the impression that the Imam Mosque was previously named after the recent shah. But it was actually named for Shah Abbas of the Safavid dynasty, who renovated the city of Esfahan, build its grand bridges and its enormous square and beautiful mosques circa 1600. One point which could not be mentioned was that Shiraz was the birthplace of the Iranian wine industry which went away after the Islamic revolution. But the grape developed in Shiraz persists today and is vinted widely in Australia.
I must protest one revision of history in Rick's script, however. It is absolutely untrue that the shah's troops killed and tortured thousands, as Rick says, in response to the agitation that led to the change in government in Feb. 1979. The so-called Islamic revolution was among the most bloodless coups imaginable, contemporary Iranian histrionics notwithstanding.
Terry Sutherfield
los angeles, ca USA 01/22/2009
Who is right, who is wrong?
Rick Steves courage to go against the tide of constantly disparaging Iran is rare. It also raises a question. Where do the rest of the media get their information? Who is right, who is wrong, why is there little to no balance?
Check out
http://www.bibijon.org/iranimage/
BiBiJon
amherst, MA USA 01/22/2009
IRAN
Hi Rick,
I recently went to Paris and purchased your guide, thank you for the great guidance. I am a 33 year old persian woman who was born in England and raised here in the states. You did a wonderful job capturing the charismatic people of Iran. I visited for the first time 6 years ago and have been counting the days I can go back "home". Iran is a beautiful country and thanks to you, American people can see a part of that. Thank you
Shu Shu
Studio City, CA USA 01/22/2009
Documentary on Iran
Last night (01/22/09)I saw your documentary on Iran on KLCE chanel. It was pleasure to watch it,I am so glad that you portrayed some realities of Iran and Iranians. We are a very freindly people with respect to all nations and religions. Iran is an absolutely beautiful country to explore. With it's rich divers geography, you can find different world of culture when you travel from North to South and East to West. Centuries old Art, Science and History is really a pleasure to discover. I do thank you for this wonderful documentary.
Maryam
Oak Park, CA USA 01/22/2009
Thank you so much for doing such a beautiful show on Iran. I loved the street-side interviews, seeing the beautiful countryside and cities, and getting a glimpse of the open and friendly people who make up a nation we understand poorly. I was transfixed to the screen; this was my favorite show, by far. Thank you!
Jennifer
Rancho Cucamonga, CA USA 01/22/2009
You are an artist, Rick!
I have this strange feeling. It's like when you see an action TV show, and are waiting for the next episode to come out.
How likely is it for you to make another one? Just to dig deeper and address arising concerns.
Brad <email>
Vancouver, BC Canada 01/22/2009
iran
rick-
i very much enjoyed your iran program, as it was educational and inspirational, and eye-opening compared to most news and info we in the usa get about iran. it is a pleasant surprise to learn that people are good people everywhere, even in iran. i have been a traveler in 75 countries, including 4 muslim countries, and the picture you presented of the people in iran show them to be much happier and better off than were the people in the muslim countries i have visited. i realize the government of iran presented a "rosy glass filtered picture" to you; but that was still some of the reality, even if there are other bad aspects which were not shown. thanks for your efforts on this, which are "outside the box" for most of your travels and business.
knox bell
knox bell <email>
san diego, ca USA 01/22/2009
Thank you for an Excellent program!!
Just wanted to say thank you to Rick and everyone who made this program possible!
It was refreshing to see the architecture and the people of Iran up close without actually being there.
Rick's commentary and questions were very educational, entertaining and even moving.
Thank you again for showing the side of Iran most people in the US are not aware of.
Best regards,
Ahmed Jehanzeb.
Ahmed Jehanzeb <email>
Lake Elsinore, Ca USA 01/22/2009
loved it!
I was so gratified to see this wonderful program about Iran. I made many Iranian friends in college in Detroit (1977-1982)and found them to be among the kindest, warmest, and most intelligent people I have ever known. Ever since that time, I experience great sadness and shame when I hear the evil, uninformed things some people say about Iranians (and Iran). It is obvious they don't know anything about their wonderful culture. I loved your program and would love to visit Iran to see its beauty firsthand. Thank You!
Ann Katopodis
Novi, MI USA 01/22/2009
Rick Steves' Iran
An excellent program. I lived in Southwest Iran as a child and we visited most of the places seen in the video. My memories of bright, friendly people are certainly affirmed by your interactions. Despite my own dismay at the leadership of Iran and stark political differences between our countries, I have always sensed a deep connection with the Iranian people and I have a great appreciation for the beautiful country. It is sad that some posters cannot work past politics and connect on a personal level.
Tom Pevehouse <email>
HUNTINGTON BEACH, CA USA 01/22/2009
Many thanks!
Dear Rick,
I've watched your Iranian program twice, now. Enjoyed it both times. I have always believed that we, Americans, have more in common with the Iranians than not. Being a 58-year-old male, I also know that America has not been the best "neighbor" to Iran. How have you been able to get your program past the corporate-controlled and conservative-controlled congressional censors? Oh, yeah! PBS.
Thank you.
Dave Gardner <email>
Conyers, Georgia USA 01/22/2009
the kids are alright
Thanks Rick. I'm sure I will watch this episode as many times as the rest. It was nice to see footage of a beautiful country without news media sensationalism. It gives me hope to see that the kids are not in favor of the rulers they are under. I wish I could see what happens when the cameras aren't there.
pagandaddy <email>
Cleveland, GA USA 01/22/2009
Iran/21 Jan Georgia PBS
Outstanding timely, accurate portrayal of fascinating country and wonderful
people. We visited same cities, sights
in 2 1/2 week tour last May, travelling
mainly with New Zealanders & British.
The Iranians could not have been nicer,
full knowing we were Americans. Great
travel destination. We look forward to
sharing DVD with relatives & friends who think us "nuts" for going to Iran!
Dorothy & Mark Murrah
Atlanta, GA USA 01/22/2009
Rick Steve's Iran
I was invited to lecture at a Radiology Convention in Shiraz last April. Other than problems going thorugh customs where the customs agents finally told us they were taking a long time to make up for the problem Iranian citizens have coming to the US and getting the visas only three days before departure,we had few problems. The major problem for my wife was that her head scarves were too warm.Toward the end of the trip, she was given cooler scarves.No problem for us as Jews to be admitted. Everyone was very friendly to us. In addition to Shiraz and Persepolis,we were able to visit a synagogue and an old Jewish cemetery in Esfahan. The story of our meddling in their politics in the 50's is finally making into popular knowledge.
Allen Cohen
Orange, CA USA 01/22/2009
Rick Steves Iran
Rick,
I saw your IRAN program for the first time tonight (Jan. 20) and very much enjoyed your commentary and perspective on this reclusive and complex country. Your program provided a somewhat different view of the country and it's people, which was a contrast to the demonized view of Iran than is often portrayed by media sources in the west.
I suspect you had to overcome more than a few hurdles to make this program a reality, so I'd like to offer my compliments to you and the crew for this most interesting and thought provoking program. The videography was stunning in High Def., so compliments to Karel as well.
Ken
Vernon, Canada 01/21/2009
Iran
BRAVO!!!
DivineBodies.com
The Universe, CA USA 01/21/2009
Program on Iran
I watched your segment on Iran and wanted to say thank you for pursuing an assignment such as this.
It was informative and maybe even ground breaking for your team to show the American public the commonalities between the people - something that is lost in the propaganda of both sides.
I hope your team will continue to pursue similar opportunities in that region.
Best Regards,
Saimir Qalliu
Fishers, IN USA 01/21/2009
Iranian Journey/Film
Montashakkeram (Thankyou) Steve, for making a film about the people of Iran. Please show your film in schools across the USA.
I lived in Teheran and Esfahan with a family in 1973 (before the fall of the Shah), Hospitality was great. Visited Shiraz, Takht-e-Jamshid, Caspian Sea. I remember: call to prayers early morning, smell of fresh baked Nan(bread), the thrill of the Esfahan bazzar, people's cultural pride, music (I sTill listen)
Your next stop: Kashmir,Nepal, Laos, Sri Lanka! Your a great ambassador! Keep up the great work!
FP <email>
MA USA 01/21/2009
IRAN TOUR
I really enjoyed your tour through Iran. I startred to think that maybe we are all wrong. They are a generous caring people with a flair for decorating their most holy shrine with flags demanding the death of the people from an entire nation. The people you met were indeed friendly, and obviously did nothing and are doing nothing to stop or protest their countries calls for genocide. It really is too bad that all the culture and beauty that is Iran will be destroyed when its leaders do something stupid, with full support from the people of course...
Greg <email>
Ottawa, ONT CANADA 01/21/2009
Give Rick a Break
I notice that most of the people attacking Rick's motives seem to be those who know the least about Iran (and therefore could benefit the most from taking his show seriously). The vast majority of those who've actually traveled to Iran seem to think Rick got it just right. If you're debating whether to "believe" Rick's depiction, take this into account.
Also, I can understand why some people are upset about specific issues in Iranian society. The way they treat gay people, and their attitude about Israel, is indefensible. I think Rick is trying to remind us that we can't judge an entire society based on its worst elements. Our media tend to emphasize the hatefulness of Iranian society, to remind us why they are "evil." It's refreshing to see a show that tries to take a broader view. Rick's point is not to excuse Iranians who murder gay people or wish to eradicate Israel...but to remind us that, like Americans, most Iranians are basically apolitical. The people spending time with their families on that beautiful riverfront are not so different from my family. I find it insipiring to be reminded (for a change) of what unites humanity rather than what divides us. Thank you, Rick!
CH
Seattle, WA USA 01/21/2009
Loved it
I too saw this and found it wonderful. I will admit I teared up a bit, mainly because it was so genuine and it showed that what it comes down to is us people. Like we and they said, it is the governments at war, not us people. I agree with a previous comment that it should be shown in schools, if nothing, to show our children that there is beauty in this world, and that we are all people in this world looking for a better life. Bravo Rick! Bravo! P.S. When you were smelling all the fresh herbs I was very jelous!!
Hollie
ID USA 01/21/2009
Iran
Thank you for your unbiased program about Iran. I believe, you did a very good job presenting Iranian culture and society.
Thank you
Shahin <email>
Ann Arbor, MI USA 01/21/2009
Brilliant!
thank you for your amazing work on the trip through iran. please post when it will be on again. i would like to make sure my grandchildren see it.
Linda Fox <email>
New Westminster, BC Canada 01/21/2009
Iran and its People
Thank you, Rick, for being such a humanitarian and encouraging us to know other countries, societies and people. Like the Iranians you interviewed in your excellent tour of this magnificent and complex country, people around the world want peace and stability. We too often get leaders who are fanatics and not representative of the human quest for brotherhood, sisterhood and caring for other human beings. I have always loved your programs and am immeasurably impressed by the work you do to promote good values and social commitment. Bravo, Rick!
A. K. Harris
North Vancouver, BC USA 01/21/2009
Kudos
I watched your special last night and absolutely loved it. Excellent job!!Tehran seems to have become much more grimey since my husband and I were there in 1972, when the Shah's power was at its peak. But it's heartening to see that the people are still as friendly and hospitable. ..I just wish you'd made this special 15 years ago. Maybe America would have handled issues differently if more people had understood Iran better. ..Now, I would love to see you add Africa and South America to your itinerary. Thanks and keep up the great work.
L. K. Piliaris
Olympia, WA USA 01/21/2009
Rick Steve's program on Iran
Thank you Rick for your wonderful program on Iran. I was a bit perplexed on how you obtain permission by the Iranian government to do your program there. Your program reinforced the idea of a shared common humanity. The people in your film are in many ways like us here in the U.S. Sure our governments are locked in political quarrel, but the very first step to ammeloriate the situation is to reach out to one another rather than judge.
Juan
Oakland, CA USA 01/21/2009
Sheesh
"Frankly it is surprising that as many Iranians still have anything positive to say about the US. I guess it goes to show that the capacity to forgive is universal - so long as the problem goes away. "
This is so naive. I guess you missed the huge signs desecrating the US flag, the banners in the mosques calling for death to Israel, or Ahmadinejad's insane ramblings (ie. WW2 genocide never happened). Sure there are some nice people there, but until their government is overthrown and radical islam stamped out - don't go there for Spring Break.
Jeff
IN USA 01/21/2009
Nothing replaces first hand experience
Many thanks to you Rick for such a wonderful show. By overcoming your apprehensions and traveling to Iran you were able to relate to us your firsthand experiences of this wonderful people.
It is amusing to see that ignorant people like proud_bay_man make statements about a country they have never visited in their life based on what they find in their Google search results. What an authoritative reference he bases his arguments on!
I lived in Iran for nearly 20 years, after the revolution, and I can emphatically assure you that beheadings do NOT happen in Iran. Public hangings are extremely rare and are only done for the most heinous crimes.
Those few gays that he refers to having been executed in Iran were not executed because they were gay but because they had abducted and raped minor boys.
If proud_bay_man is upset that a monster who raped children was executed, you can draw your own conclusions about the rest of his comments.
Mo
USA 01/21/2009
Iran special and Rick;s guidebooks and travel backpack
The Iran show in HD was tremendous. On our big screen HD tv it was almost as good as being in Iran! As we have traveled alot we have always felt that the common people live their lives each day like we do working, being with their families, and enjoying life. I believe that travel makes us more aware about how much alike we really are at the core of our being.
Keep up the good work Rick.
Martin Abero
Portland, OR USA 01/21/2009
Learn to separate government from the oppressed people
Jeff, instead of calling others who wish for peace as naive, teach yourself to get free from stereotypes. The ramblings of Iran's leaders are just as insane as McCain's calls to bomb, bomb, bomb Iran or Bush's Saddam-9/11-WMD link. But just as the US government did not represent the attitudes of the majority of the US people, the Iranian government is not representative of its citizens.
Steve, kudos on your insightful program on the real face of Iran.
Aaron
Washington, DC USA 01/21/2009
Iran show
Rick Steves:
I loved the show! Great photography and commentary. I admire your courage in honestly discussing the Shah's regime. The Shah, typically glamorized by western media, was one of the great torturers of the 20th century. His regime rivalled that of Saddam Hussein in brutality.
Thanks for doing the show and I hope you do more shows on Middle Eastern countries!
Chris Wheatley <email>
mount clemens, mi USA 01/21/2009
Rick Steves’ Iran
Thank you so much Rick for making this wonderful journey to Iran. This was an amazing program and my family and friends who all watched the show are grateful to have someone like you capture the essence of the country and its wonderful people rather than the propaganda and negative media coverage surrounding the country of Iran.
We hope programs like these will help enlighten everyone and help them see that all people of the world, despite what their governments dictate, are in search of freedom, prosperity and peace.
Armaan
San Francisco, CA USA 01/21/2009
No Mo, Thye kill them for being gay. Period!
No Mo, please check out the site link below and do some research before your ignorance is thrown out into the arena. Thank you. www.gaypatriot.net/2006/11/27/gay-holocaust-in-iran-4000-killed-and-counting/
proud_bay_man
San Francisco, Ca USA 01/21/2009
Iran
Rick, thank you for helping to break down the barriers between our countries. As a history teacher, I especially found your tour informative. My wife & I would seriously consider a tour there w/ your group.
Garland Frankfurth <email>
Sequim, WA USA 01/21/2009
Iran show
Just wonderful! Your show on Iran was marvelous! You did such a fabulous job portraying the good in all people. I gave you a standing ovation as the credits rolled. I was filled with joy. I love your work. Thanks!
Becky
Boise, ID USA 01/21/2009
We Fell in Love With Iran
Thank you for you gift of love to all the people of the world. Donna and I were moved to tears by your willingness to confront your own fears and get to know some of the people of Iran. We so loved the people you talked with, the art, architecture and the geography. One of our dear friends is Iranian, living here in Portland for 20 years, while the rest of his family is Iran. We called him after the show and shared how we were affected by the show, and asked that he take us with him on his next visit home to his family. Thank you and keep up this refreshing new approach to travel on our planet. Duane Smelser and Donna Domila
Duane Smelser <email>
Portland, OR USA 01/21/2009
Rick Steves' Iran
Great show! Every bit as good as I had anticipated. Maybe Syria should be next?
James Canning
Seattle, WA USA 01/21/2009
visit to Iran
Thanks for the excellent program on Iran. Your work is very important as well as entertaining. Demonstrates to me that different cultures and peoples can get along fine. It is the institution of government that always ruins things for everybody.
William Udy <email>
Camas, WA USA 01/21/2009
Thank you so much for your courage
Thank you Rick for your courage in mentioning The Baha'i Faith and it's Prophet-Founder Baha'u'llah!!! I thought you would be censored from doing so by the Iranian Government because you opened the show saying they okayed everything you said and did. But I was so delighted to hear you mention it! I am a Baha'i who had to flee the country even before the Revolution in 1978 and have not been back since then to see my country because I will be imprisoned due to my religious beliefs! Thanks again for showing me Iran's current scenery! I have recorded the show to keep as a family relic.
Tandis <email>
San Diego, CA USA 01/21/2009
Kudos to you, Rick!
Salam Rick! I just want to thank you for your respectful and sensitive portrayal of the beautiful country of Iran. I am an American born Caucasian woman from the South, my children are half Persian, I speak fluent Farsi, and love all things Persian - the food, the culture, the music, the language, the dance, everything. I was very touched by your moving words both throughout and at the end of your documentary. Thank you so much for this! I know your work will serve to open the hearts and minds of Americans and other peoples everywhere! Truly, the flipside of fear is understanding! God bless you, Dorothy
Dorothy
Temecula, CA USA 01/21/2009
As an Irannian expatriate who has spent the past 30 years working hard to forget and disown his roots, I was surprised at how much I enjoyed and was a little moved by this program.
I hope the footage was as honest and un-laundered as it seemed. And we all hope that the governments will get out of the way of the people!
Arash
CA USA 01/21/2009
Iran glossed over
It seems strange that in a house of worship, in the middle of their country, they are so insecure that they need soldiers standing by during prayers. What could they be afraid of? Also, a banner proclaiming death to another country shouldn't be glossed over.
People with Jewish sounding surnames are not allowed into Iran, even if they go there with Iranian nationals that are muslim.
There is a large underclass in Iran who have tried to protest, and the government surpresses them.
As much as I appreciate Rick's world view, and I know that travel is a great way to break down cultural barriers and stereotypes, in some ways I feel that this show about Iran was free and misleading marketing for a repressive, and intolerant theocracy. Rick's inherent kindness and good nature was a perfect vehicle for Iranian propaganda. I hope Rick is aware that there is a possibility of this consequence.
I would like to note I am a huge fan of Rick, and have used his books with great success on many trips to different parts of Europe.
DRR
Thousand Oaks, USA 01/21/2009
Iran
Rick, We were so amazed by this one, I never thought that the people could be so nice. You really opened our eyes. Thank You so much for showing the real people in Iran.
Janice K
Santa Monica, CA USA 01/21/2009
Iran
My sister called and told me I should watch this show. Our father was Iranian, but neither of us has been to the country. Our father loved his country and now we can see why. The people are sincere and gracious and the views are breathtaking. Thank you, Rick, for this beautiful depiction of Iran and its people.
Sherrine <email>
Redlands, CA USA 01/21/2009
Iran
I was eager to see this program as I felt that Mr. Steve's celebrity was a good vehicle to break through a lot of fearful rhetoric about Iran. I have mixed feelings after viewing it. The content and his interactions with Irainians seemed awfully simplistic. I agree with another's comments that at least the perception of homework done on language and customs would have improved the program. But,I recall being completely bewildered in 1971 when AFS sent me to Iran for the summer. I had never heard of Tehran nor did I know anything of Persian culture. My experience there was life changing. I was welcomed by my host family and friends with boundless hospitality and generosity. I am thankful that I have those treasured experiences.They serve as foundations for all the things that I have since learned about Iran. All in all I am pleased that others, through this program, perhaps as bewildered and uninformed as I, will be invited to imagine Iran and Iranians in a new way. Kheli mamnoon, kheli merci.
Libby <email>
Port Angeles, WA USA 01/21/2009
Open Your Eyes!!!
I want to applaud you, Rick, for tackling the culture, people and history of Iran with respect and honesty that we all have come to know from you over the years. The history is so deep and rich, it's important to understand it and respect it. Even if their culture and rituals are foreign to us Americans.
Speaking as a 27 year old American male who has traveled abroad, it bothers me that people let propaganda (from any source) skew their views of a country and people when they haven't bothered visit that country or do any independent research and thought on the matter. The idea that people are bringing the typical stereotypical anti-middle eastern rhetoric is sad, especially if they watched your hour show.
I am not saying I support the governmental rule of Iran, but I do believe that their culture, a culture deep with history, should be respected. I'm one who believes that Western-influenced way of life shouldn't be shoved down the throats of nations that have been set thousands of years in a particular way of life. It's what makes visiting other countries so much fun. Witnessing how people live thousands of miles from home. It's what makes culture shock so interesting. American imperialism, imposing our values and ways on people who have been living a certain way for thousands of years is extremely arrogant and disrespectful.
The one thing I didn't like seeing was the signs in the mosque saying "death to Israel". It shouldn't be there in a place of prayer. It's obviously governmental propaganda.
Although, many have misinterpreted what President Amadinejad (sp?) said as far as "wiping Israel off the map", he actually called for the destruction of the Zionist rule of Jerusalem, not the actual people of Israel. The same thing could be said about their hatred towards America, this dislike our imperialistic attitude towards the world, but mean no harm to the American people.
After all, we took out their democratically elected leader in '53 because they wouldn't give British Petroleum their old fields and replaced him with a pro-western tool. I wouldn't be too happy with America either.
So, please get off the couch and take a trip to another land. Experience the world through your OWN eyes and gain knowledge self experienced...not through state-controlled propaganda aimed to keep you in the dark with fear and ignorance.
In the meantime, be sure to watch Rick Steves and get "cultured"!!!
Matt E
Long Beach, CA USA 01/21/2009
Great Show
This program was very informative, and showed the human face of Iranian society. Great work!
Carlos
Los Angeles, CA USA 01/21/2009
Iran
Of the many programs about traveling I find yours sympathetic to the new traveler and not boring or condecending to the experienced one. This program was one I did not show any interest in watching but found it to be the best work you have ever done. I cant beleive this but I really want to travel to Iran. Its sounds like our problems getting along is because we are so much alike. With the exception of Irans beautiful and living history.
Brad <email>
San Francisco, CA USA 01/20/2009
Good program
I am very glad you did this show. I'm glad you were open about the way your depiction of Iraq was restricted by the government. Like some other posters, I find much to criticize about the government. However I doubt that the best way to start a dialogue is with a fight. Let's open the borders between our countries. Then maybe we can issue visas to gays and take other steps to help folks. Anyway, thanks. Next stop, North Korea?
Sally
Berkeley, CA USA 01/20/2009
A-Z nice!
Very nicely covered from A-Z in a short time span! Great to hear you emphasize US-Iran good relations and the Iranians to respond in kind.
zenne
San Jose, CA USA 01/20/2009
Good Show
It was a good show. I feel like I learned a lot about Iran. I’m surprised about how little I knew about Iran.
This view of Iran is definitely not something one usually sees in American media. I think there is a good reason for that… but it is okay to occasionally watch something informative about Iran that doesn’t want to focus only on political perspectives.
But still, having said that, my favorite comment so far was this one: Looking forward to the sequel "Springtime in North Korea".
That made me laugh. I don't know much about North Korea... I'm all for Steves doing it!
Kevin <email>
Alameda, CA USA 01/20/2009
Steve Rick's Iran
A truly wonderful program to watch. Thank you Steve for having the audacity to do this. This is only a glimpse into Iran and its complex social, political, and historical landscape but a remarkable departure from cliche' journalism of the past 2-3 decades.
on behalf of my family and myself, I applaud Steve for taking this courageous step.
Joe Raassi <email>
Menlo Park, CA USA 01/20/2009
Thank you for the Flashback
I lived in Iran in the mid 70's and attended Tehran American School,one of our school "Field Trips" was to the cities of Isfahan,Shiraz & Persepolis,so it was nice to see these places again and to be able to show my kids what life was somewhat like in Iran when I lived there.Many things have changed in thirty years but many good memories came back after watching your show,I miss the food,shopping and the mountains,so thank you for the flashback.While living in Iran I never had problems being a blond haired blue eyed American woman but then again that was thirty years ago,and there was plenty of Western culture as well as Iranian culture.
Becky <email>
Conklin, MI USA 01/20/2009
Iran show and Turkey
My husband and I traveled to Turkey recently with one of your tours. So many friends and family have asked us why, and we answer that we wanted to know more about this ancient place. We came home with a deep respect and admiration of Turkey, its history and its struggles in today's world. We saw many echoes of Turkey's situation in your Iran show; they share many similarities and challenges. When you begin tours in Iran we'll be eager to go!
Filming that show was gutsy and a real coup for you - someone there was smart enough to realize that you are a good ambassador between the US and the world. In your interactions with Iranians, we were struck by the openness and friendliness of the people. Many of them told you, "We love America!". That surprised and encouraged me. With a new president and a new perspective on our place in the world, and shows like yours, there is hope for peaceful relations. It truly begins with we, the people....
Theresa
Petaluma, CA USA 01/20/2009
Fair and Accurate
As someone who spent two years in Iran in the Peace Corps (1966 - 1968), who learned Farsi and so could accurately communicate with Iranians, I am astounded on how fair and accurate and perceptive you are. Thank you so much for this show. It should be required viewing for everyone in the American State Department. While no country is perfect, the American propaganda machine is as bad or worse as any other country's; and typical American media likewise. I am fortunate to live in a community where we get English language news reports from Europe - and how different they are from CNN, NBC, ABC, CBS etc. It takes public television, and an individual with the insight of you, to open our eyes and just show things like they are. You are an important force for broadening the American public and for promoting peace.
Jim
San Francisco, CA USA 01/20/2009
Thanks for offering a different view
I had a chance to visit Iran about 10 years ago. As you mentionned, I went there with fear but I came out delighted with so great people and culture!
Your program is GREAT and hopefully will bring N.A. and Iran closer and finally put an end to that stupid rethorical exchanges between governements. That looks like is about to change
J. Luis
Montreal, QC Canada 01/20/2009
Excellent job Steve! But I wish you had traveled to the north of Iran and filmed the Swiss-alps like scenes stretched along the coast of the Caspian sea. Ignorance and lack of understanding between the two nations have created a deep gap between them. I hope someday they become friends. Iranians could have the same relationship with Americans as Canadians currently do and programs like yours are very eye-opening and headed in the right direction towards peace and friendship.
Hossein Nabipour
Vancouver, BC Canada 01/20/2009
Iran
I enjoyed watching the program. I was born in Haiti, but grew up in the United States. Haiti today is one, if not, the poorest country in the western hemisphere. But a long time ago it was one of the prettiest, and today many parts of Haiti are still as pretty as it was in the past, but you wouldn't know that from how the coutry is portrayed in the news. I wish someday I can afford to visit a number of these wonderful countries to learn about and experience their cultures.
One thing I'd like to know is: What prejudices, if any, that the people of Iran have toward black people?
JL <email>
Grosse Pointe Woods, MI USA 01/20/2009
We are human beings regardless of our nationality
I would like to thank you Steve for visiting and honestly broadcasting the true Iranian culture and people. Iranian people are living in an isolated country however they love foreigners no matter where they are from.
I am also glad that you have not been negatively influenced by the media towards Iran. I have met many people who have not got out of their state and province in their life but treated me with disrespect as soon as they realized I am from Iran. Why they should do that and I think the only reason is that they are all brain washed and lead by Media and I am sorry to see these people. These are who can be trained against humanity.
I bring you an example; I have met a lawyer on a plane one day and we had a great discussion about his job and mine and so on however after he asked my origin. He told me then you might be an spy and you came here to steal our airplanes designs. (This is an example of a well educated citizen) The other day I was watching a documentary about Afghanistan and an afghan lady was being interviewed and she said in Farsi that her husband went to Iran to work and he brought enough money to buy a house however the interpreter translate it like this “My husband worked and bought a house” I told to myself see how these transparent!! Media are trying to present Iran to the world in a way that they want.
I hope one day my wish comes true to see everybody acknowledges that we are all human beings no matter what our nationality is as Americans after many years realized that there is no difference between Black and White.
Hope for Peace
Ali
NL USA 01/20/2009
the iran special
peace be upon you,
i just finished watching this incredible travel log/documentary and i am incredibly impressed. i approached this program with great trepidation as i assumed it would be wholly anti-Islamic in nature. instead of cringing as i watched, i was wonderfully suprised at the appreciative and tolerant tone of not only the great historic persian culture, but also of the Islamic faith and culture. the program was visually stunning and very informative. well done!
as an aside, i was intrigued by mr. steves perception of iranian women's modesty; from the vast amount of footage shown, we could see that most iranian women do not wear chador, nor do they even fully cover their hair. interesting. most of the women shown wore jeans or trousers... so i do think that mr. steves' opinion of modesty is a little coloured by this culture, to say the least. in canada, you will see a lot of secular Christian women who dont dress provactively, even in the heat of summer, at least nothing that would make a woman in a long sleeve shirt and jeans with a 'half a hijab' look particularly modest or repressed. in the end, covering one's body shows self respect, not the reverse. hopefully mr. steves and his viewers will contemplate this.
other than that small issue, i thought that this program was one of his best yet. i am certainly inspired to make the journey over there for one of the official mosque tours...
thank you for such an intriguing journey!
peace/masalama
tanda khadijah chmilovska <email>
calgary, AB USA 01/20/2009
Your best show! Maybe a renewal of good relations is possible. I hope so.
Thank you Rick.
Dutch Schultz
Palatine, IL USA 01/20/2009
Thank you!
Dear Rick--thank you for stepping out and doing a tremendous job presenting the people of Iran to an American audience--I hope this is a beginning of a new set of Rick Steves' shows, taking us to other places throughout the world (India? Sri Lanka? Thailand? Indonesia? Pakistan?)
Alicia
San Diego, CA USA 01/20/2009
Iran
I visited Iran in 2001 and found it a fascinating place to visit. I travelled on my own with a friend. We did hire a driver to take us around and deal with some of the issues which stem from being unable to read or speak the language.
Regarding the people, I found them extremely welcoming. I managed to lose a Canada / Iran moonshine drinking contest with a former fighter pilot. As Rick hinted at in his program, Iranians are truly different behind closed doors.
With respect to religion and politics, one thing Rick could have made more clear is that the vast majority of Iranians worship at home. Mosque attendance is dominated by government workers and members of the apparachik. The mosques are truly an extension of the regime, hence the death to America signage. Sensible Iranians that I communicated with scorned these things.
Like most regimes, the Iranian machine relies on propaganda. Driving outside of Qom on the anniversary of Khomeini's death, I saw loads of buses with black flags on them heading towards the city. When I asked our driver what they were for, he scoffed and said that the government took poor people from the countryside, paid them some money and gave them some food - all so they would appear on TV.
Finally, I must say that there is no other country on earth where you can visit destinations like Persepolis, Shiraz, Yazd, Isfahan, Kerman and Bam (sadly now destroyed) without seeing another tourist around. We were able to explore Persepolis and Bam without any interference or restrictions. It was truly amazing.
I highly recommend that people go open their minds and get out and explore it for themselves.
Cheers
Ukrainian Canadian
Wostok, AB USA 01/20/2009
Iran
I loved watching Iran, Jan. 20th--my uncle is from Shiraz, my cousin was born there. I was always interested in knowing more about the country. Very good. Thanks-
Heidi Crook <email>
Agua Dulce, Calif USA 01/20/2009
obscene gestures!
umm - did anyone tell you that a "thumbs up" is the equivelent of giving someone he middle finger in Iran? When the men in the car said that they wished that relations between the US and Iran would get better, you smiled and veritably flipped them off and said "so do I" (I lived there for a couple of years)
rbardwell <email>
Seattle, WA USA 01/20/2009
Iran Tour a Blessing
Rick, I just watched the HD version of the show on Iran and I was so awestruck at how beautiful the country of Iran has become again! I was there under the Shah as a teenager and attended Tehran American School. When I watched the news and read articles after the revolution, and later during the long war with Iraq, I was afraid all the beauty would be gone from a place within which I adored growing up. How delicious to see the beautiful landscapes again! The waterway was after my time, but such a lovely view. And I loved seeing the inside conditions of the home at which you had dinner. I'm also so glad the women of Iran are back in school, taking positions in business. It brings to mind that all things can change, and understanding is the first step. Great job.
Lars <email>
Tucson, AZ USA 01/20/2009
Iran
BRAVO~! This should be required viewing for all Americans. How foolish it would be to pursue further hostility against this wonderful people. We must reject the propagandist's view of our world. Ambrose Bierce said that "war was God's way of teaching Americans geography". What a dismal way to learn! Rick you are my role model. Thank you so much so this effort!!
Michael Way <email>
Tacoma, WA USA 01/20/2009
Iran is Beautiful!
What a great episode! Iran is so beautiful, and I would have never known through the regular American media. I like to think of myself as a well traveled, educated American, having been to Australia, Europe and Africa...but I was suprised at how beauitful Iran is, and how friendly the people are. It is a place I would love to learn more about and someday visit. I loved seeing Persepolis. Would love to see more episodes like this one, with more Middle Eastern nations. I wish more Americans would have the open mindedness and open heartedness as you and your show have! Thank you for educating us.
Shawna <email>
Seattle, WA USA 01/20/2009
Iran
Thank you for showing the truth. Please send a copy to the White House.
Rick this is one of your best.
Kudos for the show.
Eric & wendy <email>
Coupeville, Wa. USA 01/20/2009
Rick Steve's Iran
Thank you for your show Steve! My father's father was the leading Iranian diplomat to this country in his time and yet I have relatively little knowledge of the country except how warm and friendly the Iranian people are. Your show allowed me to see some of what I've wondered about all these years. Keep up your good work.
Paul
Anacortes, WA USA 01/20/2009
Iran
I really enjoyed your Iranian film. i went there in 1972 when my Pan Am flight landed there in Tehan and stayed for 3 days.I was nervous walking around.
Questions 1. Can Iranians come and go as they please to & from Europe, Egypt?
Is it easy for us to visit Iran as a tourist?
Bill Magno <email>
Yelm, WA USA 01/20/2009
This program is a gift
Like nearly everyone else, after watching the program I felt compelled to go to my computer and add my voice. (A rare occurance, I assure you.) Thank You, Steve, for the gift of this program.
Linda
Gig Harbor, WA USA 01/20/2009
THANK YOU STEVE
i just finished watching your program and i still have tears in my eyes ... im from iran but been in canada for a long time and havent had time to go back but your show took me back to my homeland . i was crying the whole show watching people and realizing how much i miss my country . thanks RICK for such a gret show and most important for showing the TRUTH .
mersedeh <email>
vancouver, bc USA 01/20/2009
Viva USA-Viva Iran
Rick, As an Iranian-Canadian I would like to thank you for creating a true and real view from Iran. Great Job!
I hereby invite all kind American people who have this video to show this to others .May God make both nations closer and closer.
Viva USA /Viva Iran and Viva Canada
Thanks again Rick
Khashayar <email>
Vancouver, BC Canada 01/20/2009
Iran
i agree Obama and his team should see how friendly the people of Iran are.I suggest you send Barak and Hillary a copy of this film
Olivia Magno
Olympia, WA USA 01/20/2009
Rick Steves' Iran
Hello Steve,
I'am french langage, so, I prefere to write in french.
Merci beaucoup pour ce reportage et cette visite en Iran. Cela fait vingt ans que je ne suis pas rentrée chez moi, ce qui veut que mon pays me manque beaucoup.
Merci pour ces images et cette réalité que vous avez bien voulu transmettre au monde entier. Le peule iranien, comme vous l'avez si bien dit et décrit, est un peuple souriant, acceuillant, instruit et ouvert... J'ai été très touchée, c'est pourquoi, je me suis mise tout de suite à vous écrire. L'Iran a dû changer depuis votre visite, en bien j'espère !
Merci Steve et bonne continuation.
Ladan
Ladan
Vancouver, BC Canada 01/20/2009
Iran
I taught for three years in the late 1970's in the Iranian Air Force and witnessed the revolution. It is hard to imagine a subway in Tehran! There are many things that are more modern than before, but the culture is very much the same, except that there is less freedom. Under the Shah, one could choose to follow the Islam teachings or not. Also, the Bahai people could live there, but now, I believe they are considered a threat. Rick Steves could travel there, but I would be afraid, not of the people, but of the government.
Brigid <email>
Seattle, WA USA 01/20/2009
Peace be with us
Bravo, Steves and team, this was a moving and magnificently conceived plea for peace. These last few days with Obama's astonishing inauguration have been quite an emotional ride, and I capped it by watching your blessed journey on January 20. Peace be with us.
P.D. Birnie
Vancouver, BC USA 01/20/2009
Iran
I enjoy all your shows on TV, but this one on Iran is especially interesting. It is important for westerners to see the truth, which often gets lost in nationalistic propaganda. Thank you so much.
J. Randall
Vancouver, B.C. CANADA 01/20/2009
VIVA IRAN & VIVA USA
MANY THANKS STEVE !
FOR THIS REALITY ABOUT IRAN !
Lili
vancouver, bc Canada 01/20/2009
Mon country IRAN
Have you been Iran ? I'am jealouse !
Je suis francophone donc, tu m'excuseras d'écrire en français.
J'ai adoré ton reportage et un grand merci pour avoir dit la vérité sur mon peuple.
MERCI STEVE
THANK YOU SO MUCH STEVE !
L.D
Vancouver, bc Canada 01/20/2009
IRAN
IRAN is first-rate and I am very glad to see any program that manages to avoid taking sides involving politics and religion. I enjoy independent travel and am now very much looking forward to visiting Iran.
Miki
Seattle, WA USA 01/20/2009
Iran in HD
Fantastic program, THANK YOU. I was born in Iran and moved to the US when I was 12 years old. Have been in the US for 30 years now and have boys who are 12 and 10. Have been trying to convince them to go to Iran with us for a year to experience their culture, but they have been resisting it. They just watched the show tonight, and after the show they changed their view and now want to go to Iran for a visit :-) Your program was beautiful to watch in HD, fair, fun, educational and very powerful. Keep up the great work Steve and PBS.
VK
Redwood City, CA USA 01/19/2009
Iran
Breathtaking! It was so refreshing to hear those words from the young lady he spoke to on the street. That the people of our nations want peace and that it has been goverments who seem to have conflicts with one another. I hope Obamas influence will bring about a new direction for both our nations.
Rees <email>
Chattanooga, TN USA 01/19/2009
Ric Steves 'Iran'
Nowhere in your program did you mention the government minders that were with you everywhere you went. Were you able to film freely the people who spoke to you without these minders watching? Did the government limit where you could go? I think your piece is propaganda.
Bob Eskew
Eugene, Or USA 01/19/2009
Lifting The Veil
An urgently needed change from the constant propaganda campaign waged against Iran by our media handlers. Your work will make selling the Neocons' next war to the American public much more difficult.
Unfortunately, I expect to see recriminations against you similar to those experienced by Jimmy Carter for exposing the plight of Palestinians.
This kind of work truly merits a peace prize!
Wozzeck
Portland, OR USA 01/19/2009
Iran
When there is a government minder following the host around, that should
clue you in that the subject matter is
portayed at least somewhat falsely. I knew before watching that show, how unique and beautiful the Iranian culture is. But to encourage tourism over there now is to pass hard currency
to Ahmadinejad and Hezbollah. I care too much for our allies the Israelis to do that. Someday when their government embraces freedom I'll be thrilled to visit such an amazing culture.
Dave <email>
Kabul, Afghan USA 01/19/2009
Thank you for your invaluable contribution to the world peace.
I wish you best in your journey.
USA 01/19/2009
loved the program
I was truly glued to the TV, it was a good program. I want to visit Iran, if the opporutnity comes up. I lived and worked in Kuwait and made good friends with two young women from Tehran. They remain good friends of mine today. I wish you would give advice on traveling to Iran, how did you get your visa etc. thank you for a great look into a ancient culture
Karen Miller <email>
columbus, ohio USA 01/19/2009
Disgusting
Our tax dollars hard at work. Do we need left leaning ideology in a travel show?
Mike
NJ, NK USA 01/19/2009
Really?
Don't mind the "death to Isreal" banner in the mosque...pay no attention to the government minder assigned to you...nothing to see here... just blind liberalism at work
John
NY, NY USA 01/19/2009
Disappointment
Why did Rick Steves, an American, visit a country whose leader calls America ‘the Great Satan’? Why did he visit a country where the State Department warns, “American citizens may be subject to harassment and arrest while traveling”? The U.S. has no diplomatic relations with Iran, and few Westerners venture to go there. The government of Iran requires all Americans who visit there to have guides. Steves treats Islam as ‘culture’, not mentioning its negative implications for non-Muslims. He chose not to mention that radical Islam, which certainly has adherents in Iran, calls for death to infidels, a category including most Americans and all Jews. He says Iran tolerates religion that doesn’t “offend” Islam but fails to mention the Iranian regime’s threat to annihilate Israel and “Zionists” everywhere. Steves’ video would have been better if he had stuck to his intent and avoided politics altogether. Food and travel guy Anthony Bourdain makes great videos about countries all over the globe without trying to sell a political viewpoint.
Unfortunately, Steves’ video is just one of many infotainment products aimed at Americans, bending their minds into the liberal mold. Except for Fox News, sports, and a few movies, liberal values dominate the screen.
William
Hoboken, NJ USA 01/19/2009
Wonderful
It was wonderful to see how Iranians were friendly, kind and informed. It is concerning to see we Americans who live in the "free world" and have access to "uncensored" News and information, have little if any information about Iran, or other nations and sometimes feel hostility against those people.
On the other hand young Iranians, who've grown up and born under a dictatorship regime and a Theocracy with limited access to the free information, and bombarded with government propaganda against US/west have such a kind, informed, open and friendly view toward the world and the the US.
Nabi
Boston, MA USA 01/19/2009
Iran and it's beautiful people
My family and I lived/worked in Iran in the mid 70's, drove the country from the Casapian to the Persian Gulf, never felt threatened and learned to love the people. Finest skiing anywhere (I've skied for 66 yrs.) Son graduated from Tehran American High School and experienced American football stardom he wasn't given the opportunity for in the U.S. Blond, blue eyed wife shopped the underground Bazaar and never felt threatened. Youngest son alone rented Iranian buses and sold tickets to classmates to ski; he also skate boarded down Pahlavi street as a fifteen yr. old long haired blond without incident. Yes, they have politicians just as we do.
Harold F. Watson <email>
Florence, OR USA 01/19/2009
This is real Iran
It was the very first time I saw an unbiased and realistic picture of Iran and Iranians on western media. You covered so much in an hour, and it exactly was what people are curious about and want to know… Thank you so much for the initiatives and hard work of you and your colleagues; and congratulations ?
Mehrnoosh <email>
Newark, DE USA 01/19/2009
An Echo of Genuineness in Iran
I want to echo the experiences the Iranian people shared with Rick Steves as genuine and heart-felt. In 2003 my husband and I had the opportunity to entertain 6 wonderful, beautiful men (predominately Moslem) from a 3rd world country in Central Asia for 4 days in our home. We too were somewhat apprehensive in the beginning--which soon melted away to intrigue, respect and heart-felt appeciation and great caring. They were so like us!!: Family men who loved their wives, adored their children, respected their elders. They just wanted to provide a better live for themselves, their families, their friends and neighbors, their communites, their country, and for all of us in the world.
Over the next few years, many situations cemented our relationships to these people. My husband travels to their country as a volunteer. We hosted 3 business ladies from their country to study English and learn about our culture for 2 1/2 months. I travel to their country to visit them, to stay in their homes --just to BE with them.
"I will show you my life and my people." one of my lady friends said at my first arrival. We did not have much language in common, but I as tagged along to her work and through her daily activites, observing, I experienced the warmth and curiosity of a people genuinely enamored with the idea of America. The old people wanted to touch me, the younger people wanted their picture taken with me with my camera, so their picture, in enssence, they themselves would go to America. The children smiled and waved. Many wanted to give me something.
But more than any of that--before going I asked what I could bring to give to the people I would meet along the way -- The response without hesitation was!!! "Bring American Flags!!!"
I handed out little American Flags. They wanted them NOT because they agree with current US Policies--but BECAUSE to them the American Flag is a Icon of FREEDOM!!! They obtained their freedom in 1991 after the fall of the Soviet Union. They wanted the American Flag because it is a reminder to them of WHO and WHAT they want to BE! FREE!!!
Ranee Haight <email>
Twin Falls, ID USA 01/19/2009
Thank you for a treat
A very wonderful show. Thanks to Rick and crew. I'm American and married a Persian woman six years ago. I've been to Iran twice to see her country and for our children to meet her family.
I found that you hit the tone just right. It was very well balanced. I thought your observation on the traffic in Tehran very astute; but I guess the subway is much more developed than when I was last looking at it four years ago.
I was very surprised that at least two shops and one person that you visited in your show are ones that I have visited as well: confectionery in North Tehran, spice stall in Isfahan's bazaar and the cantor at Imam Masque in Isfahan (he was very gracious when we visited).
You touched briefly on Iranian poetry and two of its most famous poets, Hafez and Sadi. Maybe your guide didn't allow or you were not aware, but I thought it might also help the viewers to know how important poetry is to Iranian culture: Iranian poetry serves many purposes, but one is as an outlet against repression. Whatever the regime, poetry has been so engrained into the culture that it has rarely if ever been stifled. As an example, at the beginning of the current regime, dance and music had been all but outlawed, but poetry had not. Death in 2007 of a quiet, gentle scholar and poet, Gheysar Amipour, was nationally mourned. Yes, Iranians have a very deep love for poetry.
People there are just like here: trying to make a living, raising families, working jobs, dealing with high unemployment, economic problems, worrying about this, that and the other little thing. They worry about the large issues, but probably as much as we worry about those as well. The last time I was in Iran was March 2007, while the five British sailors were captured by the Republican Guard. I asked a number of people what they thought about the issue. Some were not aware and others were not concerned (as Rick has mentioned, "guests are gifts from god" and Iranians believed that the captives would be treated well as guests). What people were asking me about was the movie "300" and how it painted the Persian Empire in such a negative light (as Rick also mentioned, they are Iranian first, everything else second).
Michael P Reilly <email>
Salem, MA USA 01/19/2009
Iran Whitewasht
Looking forward to the sequel "Springtime in North Korea". Maybe you can show us how happy the folks there are.
A Realist
Atlanta, GA USA 01/19/2009
Persepolis
I watched intently to the program on Iran. I have always wanted to travel to Persepolis. However, you showed me nothing of the travel to Persepolis, only Persepolis. Can I go? Am I free in Iran? Are the people of Iran free? What more is there to learn? I did love that you took notice of the "Death to Israel" Banner. I think I will put a banner in my Church "Death to Iran", but wait I am not that kind of person. I think here in the U.S. people with these thoughts are the fringe, in Iran they seen to be welcomed as mainstream. I welcome your efforts for PEACE, and people that hate should be shunned. Oh wait! Do we shun the Iranians for there hateful banners?
Alan Daffin <email>
Columbus, GA USA 01/19/2009
Government of the people?
Yes. It deeply upsets me to see public displays saying "Death to America" and "Death to Israel" in Iran. But as the young lady so eloquently put it, her government no more represents her personal feelings about America than my government represents my personal feelings about Iran. Programs like this help us to break through the government "spin" of both countries and help us to see each other as human beings. Imagine the effect of a show for the Iranian people full of Americans smiling and saying " we love Iran!". Sure, the Iranian government would never allow it, NOW, but we have to try to reach out and communicate to each other any way we can. We cannot solve the tremendous problems between our two countries by continuing to stand with our backs to each other.
Sandy
Savannah, GA USA 01/19/2009
Rick Steves Iran
Even though I left Iran at a very young age, I am passionate about Persian history, art and culture. Therefore, it was such a joy to get a call from a non-Persian friend of mine letting me know of the recent airing of your program. After watching it, I realized that it was by far one of the best and most accurate documentaries to date. I was also glad to hear the mention of Baha'is since so often they are either not represented or mis-represented. Thank you so much for this great introduction of Iran to so many ...
Minou Sadeghi <email>
San Diego, Califo USA 01/19/2009
Iran
Thanks Mr. Steves.
That was a top-notch introduction to the Iranian nation and its people. A more well-spent use of PBS money I can not think of.
It's up to the rest of us -- Americans and Iranians -- to connect and find out about each other, our flaws, our positive attributes, cultures, histories and current events, and topography. The more we know about each other as citizens (rather than through our respective governments) the less likely it will be that we end up in wasteful and regrettable confrontation.
Mike
San Diego, CA USA 01/19/2009
Iran - wonderful job
Thank you so much for the wonderful and balanced show about Iran. I am so pleased to see that most of the comments are in support of your efforts to expose americans to a vision of Iran that is not painted by the Israeli lobby, the government-controlled media, or the warmongers in our government. I have known many Iranians over the years, and they have, like virtually every other person on the planet, been wonderful people.
What a tragedy that governments constantly get in the way of people just trying to live life.
I noticed that several of the negative comments pointed out that you were monitored and that these monitors were present during your interviews. From everything I have heard, the torture, the harrassment and the killings of Iranian citizens was hundreds of times worse under the US government supported Shah. If there was open intimidation of these folks it certainly didn't show. One should not shy away from showing a country and its people, just because one has an escort. Cultural exchange with China and the Soviet Union helped bring down the Berlin wall and other bariers, and those countries were far more oppressive. Frankly it is surprising that as many Iranians still have anything positive to say about the US. I guess it goes to show that the capacity to forgive is universal - so long as the problem goes away.
As others have said, you have contributed to the peace movement with this show. You deserve not just an Emmy, but a Nobel Prize as well.
David S
Tucker, GA USA 01/19/2009
Rick Steves Iran
The show on Iran was so very well done. The country is a beautiful country and the people are so pleasant. I'm so grateful you were able to show us that politics don't necessarily define the people. I was pleasantly surprised to discover how much the Iranians liked the United States. It makes you wonder what people in this country would say if you asked them their opinion of Iranians.
Again, thank you for your well-balanced and honest look at Iran.
Gail Sotrines
Inverness, FL USA 01/19/2009
Iran
As Joyce Capron Said: "The timing of Steves’ telecast is key. The show is running on locally programmed PBS stations between January 11 and January 23, reaching its audience just before the new Administration takes office and ushers in its new Mideast policy.
The sponsorship, content, and timing of Steves’ video amount to propaganda: At the urging of a “friend” at an internationalist political organization, with the help of governments of two foreign countries, a U.S. citizen makes a video about the more hostile of the two, to be aired on a U.S. government-supported television channel, at a critical juncture in U.S. foreign policy, that seeks to soften Americans’ attitudes towards the hostile country."
I agree. Mr. Steves, you allowed yourself to be used.
ATC
Tucker, GA USA 01/19/2009
Iran
Thank you so much for showing us the culture, beauty and people of Iran. It should be mandatory viewing for all of our politicians. This is the Iran not shown on our media. Please take it to be viewed by the US Congress if they ever talk of attacking Iran. Thank you and the crew for your work in bringing us Iran.
Mudita
El Sobrante, CA USA 01/19/2009
Thank you!
This episode, in its gentle, humble way, is the best television program about Iran I've ever seen. I think you've really done a service to both Iran and to our country by giving Americans such a generous and thoughtful introduction to the people and culture of Iran. I only wish that every American could/would watch it! I have never encountered anything that so vividly shows us the basic _humanness_ of the Iranian people, and it is startling to me to realize I have never encountered this before. Despite its modest approach and aims, it achieves so much!
Yan
Billings, MT USA 01/19/2009
Iran show
Scanning through the comments below, it seems everyone has already said it; the Iran show was touching, informative, and very unique. I greatly enjoyed Rick Steves take on Iran, and its relationship with the U.S.
I sincerely hope this show gets seen by people in the U.S., it may help to quell misconceptions about Iran.
Great work, Rick. How about a trip to Gaza or Lebanon next???
Brian
Chicago, IL USA 01/19/2009
Wonderful
A breath of fresh air.
At last we get to hear from real people. Yes, it is possible that it was all staged for propaganda, but I highly doubt it.
A.R.
Sunnyvale, CA USA 01/19/2009
Iran
I just came back from Iran and this report is absolutely true. For who critics Rick Steves for not mentioning about the government, you need to open your ears and eyes and be fair. He did mention that his trip to Iran was about life style of Iranians. Do be aware if this fact that 85% of student in university are women. Women in Iran have a better life than at least me.
FM
Wlanut Creek, 94556 USA 01/19/2009
Iran
I saw the show and it was wonderfully accurate. I visited Iran in 2001 with my husband. We were in Tehran and Esfahan. Rick, I have always watched your shows but you really out did yourself this time. Spectacular!!!
Sharon <email>
St. Augustine, FL USA 01/19/2009
Shame
"Women in Iran have a better life than at least me."
I truly feel sorry for you if you believe that. You should do you some research on how women are treated in Islam in general and Iran in particular.
George
Rogers, AR USA 01/19/2009
They Kill Gays in Iran Don't they?
As a gay man, I'm extremely offended by the fact that the country of Iran is romanced as if it is a great place for all to visit. It is not. Gay kids are killed and beheaded in this country regularly as if nothing is wrong with this. I wrote to Rick and this was part of his response.
"There are some who believe that further polarization and the threat of war is a better approach. Rick strongly disagrees."
I didn't mention war. If Iran was killing babies or people of a certain color, or religion or women, this wouldn't be a discussion. Once again, gays are the bottom rung on the ladder and it's perfectly fine to advocate sweet fine wonderful countries that murder them. I speak of teenagers Rick. Kids. Your children's age. Google the words gay and Iran and look how many kids alone they murder.
When ahmadinejad came to the USA in 2008, he made a statement that they don't have gays in Iran. Because they murder them. Period. He got a kick out of telling us that, Rick. He was laughing. When you romance countries which commit horrid acts of Human Rights, you state you approve of their horrific behaviors. Rick Steves should be one whom stands up for human rights and produces a statement that in Iran killing gays is blatantly inhumane. Additionally in my reply from him was...
"focuses instead on Iran's history and culture, and why Iranians are the way they are."
If that's the case, let's speak some truth Steve. In Iran they don't take your Human Rights, they kill you. And not in private prisons or jails, these kids are killed in public areas for all to see. So if you go, and are traveling in sweet, romantic Iran, take note. You might see a group of teenagers being beheaded in a town square. That's something to share with your family while on vacation. Why you ask, because that's the way Iranian men are.
Please stop supporting PBS until they stop this kind of homophobic endorsement.
Happy traveling.
proud_bay_man
San Francisco, CA USA 01/19/2009
Iran Show
Thank you very much for this wonderful and informative program.
As an Iranian-American who has been born and raised in Iran I have learned a few things about my native country.
I must say that I have never seen anything like this in US media before. Hopefully by efforts like yours and your team’s we take significant steps towards understanding and mutual respects between these two nations.
Hassan <email>
Irvine, CA USA 01/19/2009
Iran
I truly enjoyed the coverage of Iran, absolutely breathtaking. I understand the country has its own challenges but like all things we have own culture and you are absolutely right about the first step of knowing others is by understanding their beliefs. Our countries are at polars end but that's what make us unique. Again thank you for bringing the Iranian countryside into our living room. Maybe I'll have the courage to visit Iran one day...so much history, architecture and structural engineering marvels.
Midwest, IL USA 01/19/2009
Amazing country
Thanks for your informative program. Nobody can judge a entire culture just by the information that get in the media it is necessry to have a open and a respectful opinion about others cultures. Thanks again for give to the viwer another different image of this amazing and historical country.
Aura Mesa <email>
Bogota, Colombia 01/19/2009
Iranian trip
Rick Steves you are my hero. I was so moved by your Iranian trip, it brought tears to my eyes, I felt so strongly there might actually be hope for peace someday. I can say with no reservations, I love the Iranian people, too. I think you should run for governor or president or sheriff or something.
Maggie
Portland, OR USA 01/18/2009
HD Video
I really enjoyed the program. As usual, you were humorous and entertaining. This is the first HD video that I have seen from Iran. Kudos to you and your video crew for capturing the beautiful scenes. Regarding the traffic, I am not sure that I agree with you that the drivers know what they are doing. It is indeed a mess!
Cyrus
Mountain View, CA USA 01/18/2009
The Middle-East
Rick,
Your Iran program is awesome. I definitely felt a kinship with these people after watching it. PLEASE, produce more programs about other areas of the world that are "controversial," such as Lebanon, Israel, Syria, Russia, Venezuela, and Cuba. I think that your work may be shifting a bit, in that your work could be becoming more humanitarian. I mean, you have been everywhere, Rick. Now is the opportunity to commit to a greater purpose.
yoshi
Cupertino, CA USA 01/18/2009
The Iranian Travel Show
Wow! I just watched your travel show to Iran on our local public television station. It was such an awesome show; so full of hope and beautiful people. It was great to see a true picture of the people of Iran, instead of the one our government and western media would like us to see. To hear the Iranian people say that they like Americans and want our nations to be at peace was so wonderful. Years ago I had a college roommate from Tehran and really liked her. Since then I've always wanted to see more of what her homeland is like. Thanks again for taking us with you on your travels to Iran. Keep up the awesome work!
Teresa
IA USA 01/18/2009
THANK YOU, RICK
Rick's best work yet, for all the reasons already posted. Makes me excited for new shows to come.
I agree with recommending Rick for the Medal of Freedom award, for his years of representing our great country with class, dignity, and understanding of other cultures.
Warren
Golden, CO USA 01/18/2009
Iran
I just saw this show on Iran and Rick's travels in Iran. It is nice to see that so many people have written and said how they have enjoyed the show and liked Rick's travels to Iran and also the Iranian people as well as their culture. I am not so sure that anyone would really write anything negative about it considering the simple fact that tension is high politically at this point in time. But I do know and realize that it is shows like this and people like Rick Steves that can help educate people about the differences and also the similarities of west versus east. Education is the key to world peace and until we are all able to learn about other cultures and other people within the world we are not able to live in peace and harmony with each other. I wish there were more shows like this one so that we can see what the "real" people, cultures and traditions are for all the different countries around the world.
Helen
Albany, NY USA 01/18/2009
Why I am a Rick Steves fan
Rick Steves' program on Iran was wonderful. This is why I am a "Rick Steves" fan! His travel philosophy emphasizes understanding and appreciation of cultures around the world.
Natalie
Ashland, OR USA 01/18/2009
Iran & nuclear power
Thank you for presenting this picture of Iran. I lived there for two years as a Peace Corps Volunteer when Iran was "our friend" and western companies were helping Iran build a nuclear reactor because the Shah had stated he knew the oil would run out someday and he wanted his country to be ready. Of course, after Iran kicked our buddy, the Shah, out of power, we funded Iraq's war in which they bombed Iran's reactor before it ever got on line. Now, Iran is attempting once again to get nuclear power. But the country with 300 million people and 100 nuclear reactors doesn't want the country with 60 million people and no nuclear reactors to have one. A year ago parts of Iran had a very severe winter. Hundreds, if not thousands, of people died because they didn't have adequate heat. With a nuclear reactor generating electricity for their people perhaps the loss of life would have been less. Thank you, Steve, for humanizing the people of Iran.
Matt <email>
Lansing, MI USA 01/18/2009
Iran show
Rick,
Absolutely wonderful show on Iran. I truly wish our government would have more ambassadors of peace around the world. Thank you so much.
Dina Maychrowitz <email>
San Francisco, Ca USA 01/18/2009
thanks to Rick steves
Thanks so much for showing america iran is a amazing place to travel
its really nice because people asking is iran bad place i tell them its like new york city
i am 18 years old i was born in tehran pars
Negin <email>
Portland , or USA 01/18/2009
A close Swedish friend of mine choose to work in Iran for her company, she lived there almost four years and loved every minute of it. Despite our close and frequent communications, I never could understand her fascination. Rick's show, in just one hour, opened my eyes to what her eyes saw. I never doubted the country's rich heritage and culture, but I had very little understanding for the religious yokes that women must wear. And that impression, I felt, was not changed by this program. Maybe there will be a follow-on that honestly explores that aspect of people's lifes?
<email>
MA USA 01/18/2009
Iran
Rick:
A great show - as an American living in Canada, I truly wish more people would see the world as you do.
CE
Canada 01/18/2009
Iran
Excellent production by rick and his staff. This was way over due, i always wanted to see such a program about Iran and it's people. Finally It has been done to perfection.
I have a dream to see a normilized relation between Iran and the US.
IA
USA 01/18/2009
Iran
For anyone who has lived in Iran, as I did for a year in the early 1960's, or who know Iranians here in the States, the demonization of Iran for the past 30 years has been painful and totally at odds with the very different reality we know. I remember a beautiful place and a people remarkable for their kindness, generosity, and warmth. Thank you for telling their story, and for opening the eyes of Americans to the humanity of our supposed "enemies".
Brad Bellows
Cambridge , MA USA 01/18/2009
Rick Steve's Iran
I watched the program on Iran and understood that if there is positive exchange of opinions regarding the art, people and culture amongst the educated classes, then future relations may improve across the world. Hostile PR just perpetuates hatred. Many exiled Persians came to Los Angeles after the Shah was deposed, to escape oppression. They were smart and articulate members of the middle class, and many were Christians, not just Muslim, and most have contributed positively to the culture of Los Angeles. Our new administration promises that Diplomacy is the preferred effort at World Peace, not the Bush Doctrine, therefore Rick's mission is validated. Education is the best way to convey our similarities as well as our differences. Rick is doing an excellent job of doing that. On another note: Those that presume that nuclear energy is clean, are misinformed, as nuclear waste IS one of the biggest concerns facing the world. The Middle East is best suited to support Wind and Solar and could advance and export new technology rather than oil. And yes, you can bet that Rick was not allowed into areas where the masses have a culture of hate against Israel and America or against ideas of reform. I have trouble with all of those that cling to ideas of the past as ways to live today. The world is not flat and women are capable of independence from men, but best if we work together, so we can all contribute to true Democratic freedom-which was based on Greek Philosphy. Yet you can't ignore the other great philosophys of the world because you think your's is best. Look at the conflicts that Thomas Jefferson and Abraham Lincoln lived with, yet their thinking was so right. America proves it with every new generation. Rick, thank you for your efforts.
R.Walker
Los Angeles , CA USA 01/18/2009
Iran: Conversations with Beautiful People
I am an American of non-Iranian heritage. Aside from the USA, I lived both in Asia, and, later, for several years in Europe. Watching and listening to the Iranians speak and reach out in friendship to the USA, calling us friends, and especially stating that the 'issues' are between governments - reminded me of a town in which I lived in Central Europe. There, the people, half from one European state, the other from an adjacent country, all got along very well. People from both groups consistently made similar pronouncements about the 'issues' being politically motivated. To this day, there are ongoing issues between the two governments (although both are now members of the EU) - and yet the people of that town continue to get along well, their children studying and playing together, learning and growing together. Perhaps they - the children - will one day finally erase any and all hints of 'animosity,' politically motivated or otherwise. (And may we also begin such a process with Iran and its people.)
Rick's presentation incited a new longing in me - to travel and discover once again. The last time I felt a longing to visit a place was several years ago - and it was to experience Europe. I did travel and live there for nearly 10 years. Since then I have not felt a 'tug' to visit elsewhere. Now, however, thanks to Rick and his dedicated and courageous crew, I have a new destination and dream.
I see now that Iran is a beautiful country with a deep and meaningful history and culture, and the people are friendly, open to growth and learning, curious, intelligent, and eager to join the 21st century - fully. Thank you, Rick Steves and team - and PBS - for such a revelation! I can't wait to visit Iran!
PS: I should not have been surprised that a people that has shared such wonderful, sumptuous cuisine would come from such a great culture and people from a beautiful land.
Andrew <email>
Needham, MA USA 01/18/2009
Esphahan slums
I was in Esphahan in 1968. I found the center of town all that Rick showed, but I do think that the walkways by the river were after my time. Although the center of town was magnificent, the entire city was surrounded by extensive slums. There was no mention of this. Have they disappeared, or was this an editorial judgment?
Michael J Ferguson <email>
Montreal, Quebec Canada 01/18/2009
Rick, thank you for the great work and service to the Iranian people and the world for that matter. Certainly, it was great to see some students vocing their opinion openly about the separation of church & state (in this case Mosque & state). You could not disagree with the Shah over such a thibg. this to me is progress on the part of Iran under the Mullahs. During the past 30 years Iran has progressed and has a long way to go. It is time for Iran and the US to work together in solving the world problems. I am sure that day is near.
IAC
USA 01/18/2009
IRAN
Hi Rick, Your show on Iran was great. This is the kind of information that can make a change in the minds and hearts of people and who knows maybe even governments. Good going!!! Nancy
Nancy Mills
Occidental, CA USA 01/18/2009
Iran tour the best!
The show not only presents the beautiful scenes and deep history but also energetic, open-minded and friendly people of Iran. Interactions with Iranians, yound and old, man and woman, make the show lively and educational. I wish to see more such shows especially on the countries or cultures that are not easily accessible to Americans. Thanks!
Lee
Boston, MA USA 01/18/2009
Iran
Your program on Iran was absolutely fantastic. I had no idea Iran was so beautiful and had such an advanced and modern culture. You have probably done more good to heal realtions with them than you'll ever know. You are to be commended for making this program even though you said you were "nervous" about going there. Thank you so much for educating us.
Norma Hickox <email>
Grand Junction, CO USA 01/18/2009
Rick Steve's video of Iran
I've always believed that prejudice was created out of fear of the unknown. As a child growing up, I chose to observe and keep an open mind about all people...It is the value of true life that matters most. I love that you also chose to do the same and see for yourself that prejudice is such a sad state of being. Though we all have different practices and customs, we are all human...Joelle Valente-Poetic Artist.
Joelle Valente
Central Islip, N.Y. USA 01/18/2009
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR DOCUMENTARY ON IRAN!!
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR DOCUMENTARY ON IRAN!!
I couldn't articulate it any more profoundly. I'm so happy that finally there is a positive representation of my country aired on American TV. It was very accurate, fair, well documented and beautifully captured. Bravo for taking the leap Steve and not listening to the hype and seeing Iran and Persian culture for what it is. You have a new fan.
Reza Zaheri <email>
Los Angeles, CA USA 01/18/2009
Wonderful and Enlightening
Thank you so much for your inspiring documentary. I was moved by the people of Iran and wouldn't mind traveling there.I am an average Black American female. Like so many of the citizens of the U.S., we want peace and a better understanding of the world around us.
Stephanie E Johnson <email>
San Leon, Texas USA 01/18/2009
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR DOCUMENTARY ON IRAN!!
Dear Rick, you have outdone yourself, once again. Wow, it is so great to see the "real Iran". The friendly, beautiful people. I would gladly travel to such a beautiful country. Keep up the wonderful work! And God bless all the people of this earth.
Stephen LaBranche
Hampton, NH USA 01/18/2009
Positively Iran
Kudo's on your show abut Iran. It's good to see a positive perspective of a country that our government seems to have great difficulty. Like the Iranians you interviewed...I love Iranians, too!
Gary Mark Lucas <email>
Boston, MA USA 01/18/2009
Documentary on Iran
My husband and I just finished viewing your documentary on Iran. Thanks for the wonderful job you have done! My husband has been to Iran but I have not. Now I want to go! Currently we have a boat in Turkey and find the Turkish people wonderful as well! Travel is more than self-indulgence - it builds bridges between people!
Arthur and Barbara Roberts <email>
Worcester, MA USA 01/18/2009
A life altering trip: Iran
In 2005 I went online and asked how to say "Hello" in Persian. Little did I know what a journey that would lead to. A married Iranian woman, who is also a professor of English in Tabriz, answered me. Over the next six months we developed a wonderful friendship and she invited me to visit that year. Like Rick, I arrived there very nervous, I left feeling I had met some of the nicest people in the world and had visited one of the most beautiful countries and richest cultures. It was just an astounding experience. Sadly, once I learned how wonderful the people are, I have had moments of embarrassment as an American for the way our government falsely portrays the Iranian people.
I would return in a minute and I'd have no fear or concern in bringing my precious grandchildren, knowing they'd be safer there than in many large American cities.
If you want to have a life altering travel experience, go to Iran.
John Savarese <email>
Waltham, MA USA 01/18/2009
Rick Steves Iran
Wow, what a refreshing way to see Iran without the politics. To see that the general population of Iran wanting to know that they do not have the discord that our two governments have. The beauty that Iran has to offer to the world was overwhelming to see. Thank you Rick for giving us, Americans, and Iranians both a positive view of each other. God Bless you.
Paul
Gurnet Point, Mass USA 01/18/2009
The Pain Has Begun to Heal By One Small Act
It is with tears in my eyes that I commend all those behind you, Rick, who made possible the making of the visit to Iran and to you for the kindnesses and peace that you extended the Iranian people. It is true that we fear what we do not understand and you all have helped us understand better. I have believed for a very long time that Muslim countries have only wanted us to understand that their beliefs and customs are different. It IS that simple. We just make it complicated. I cried over the reception that Mahmoud Ahmadinejad received in New York when he visited. He came in peace and love. As you have pointed out ... in Iran a guest is considered a gift from God. That is because they ALWAYS bring news from God ... sometimes unspoken. It is most unfortunate and sad that we Americans do not understand YET that we can learn much from differences if only we open our hearts and our minds ... and close our mouths a little more. To judge others is the highest form of arrogance and ignorance and to force our way on others as the only way stems from a primitive, undeveloped brain ... especially when we're not even sure our way IS the best way. Progress does not always mean outward visual advancements. Progress often means growing developmentally in the heart. May Iran and all of its Muslim brothers and sisters all over the world TEACH by being. I am not a Muslim. I just understand them, respect them, and do not fear them ... because I did my research. Iran is so beautiful. As people,let us not (by prayer) let the U.S. government destroy it as they have done to many other Muslim countries. Thanks again, Rick ... you and your cohorts are the best! You made a difference. (Graffiti Wall? ... so cute! But I hope nobody paints over my words!)
Camille Jarvis <email>
Boxford, MA USA 01/18/2009
Thanks dude
Awesome job Steve! I really enjoyed your honest approach to the people of Iran. Like any where else in the world, the people of Iran should speak for themselves, not the media. Keep up the good work! Long time fan. Joe
Joe <email>
Atlanta, GA USA 01/18/2009
What a beautiful country and people. It was a real delight to view this, Rick, you did a great job. I would love to visit this country as my perceptions of Iran have changed.
What a pleasure to not view half naked women walking around and couples hanging all over each other. There is something very refreshing about modesty. We see precious little of it here in the United States.
Thanks again, for a marvelous encounter with the Persian people and their country.
Connie Pollner <email>
Big Canoe, Georgi USA 01/18/2009
thanks for the show!
Rick, the Iran show is superb. You have done a great international service with this program. Iran is a beautiful country. The show was a joy to watch. The regular people were so open and kind to you as a person and an American. Maybe if we had more good programs like this one, things could be better in the world. Of course there are differences but there can always be a way to work things out. A lot of Americans sit back and never know what goes on in the world. Your program can open their eyes.
Mary Manley
Uniontown, Ohioh USA 01/18/2009
Iranian encounter as you displayed
Thanks
I shared a taxi in Paris with 2 Couples from Iran, worried that Little Bush would declare War on them.I experieced exactly what you did in Iran.
ALL,lets hold our elected officials accountable-THEY WORK FOR US
Mike Maddox <email>
Brownsville, Tx USA 01/18/2009
Kindness vs. hatred
I congratulate you on providing us with a real insight into this ancient and proud nation.
Your tour is refreshingly free of the bellicosity normally presented to us of these people.
We need more like it.
Gordon Sutton
Gordon T Sutton <email>
Dunwoody, GA USA 01/18/2009
My family lived in Iran for two years when I was a teenager. This program has so perfectly captured the Iran that I knew and loved. The Iranian people I knew were beautiful inside and out. In 1968 I went on a school trip to Esfahan, Shiraz and Persepolis. In Esfahan, at the front gate of the bazaar, we divided up into pairs of two girls and were told "go have fun!" My friend and I spent the whole day wandering the bazaar shopping, eating and talking to people. We were both 14 years old! Thank you Rick Steves!! for capturing a place and a people that I treasure. Iran and the USA have so much we can offer each other and so much we can learn from each other as well.
Susan Berry- Roberts <email>
Naylor, GA USA 01/18/2009
Iran
Thank you for producing this stunningly beautiful program on Iran.
I met a Iranian national training as a doctor in the US a few years back and we became close friends, and your program illustrated the country that I saw in his photos of Tehran and Shiraz.
He visited his family last September and asked me to accompany him but I was wary to go because of the relationship between Washington and Tehran and the possibly that war would erupt. I dream that the Obama administration will normalize relations between our countries and slowly I can see the culture that you experienced.
I cried as I watched your documentary and I want to thank you for those tears.
Lisa
Cleveland, Ohio USA 01/18/2009
GOOD FOOD!
Thanks to tips I got from this message board, I just visited Heidar-Baba in Pasadena, CA. It was really very nice. Thanks Rick for helping me learn more about Iranian food and the Iranian people. Your documentary has gone above and beyond!
Bonnie <email>
Arcadia, Ca USA 01/18/2009
Peace Be Upon Us All...Indeed
I have to say that was a beautiful "peace" of work! I have 2 foster siblings who are Iranian by birth and often wondered what their homeland was like. They, and their parents, are some of the greatest people I have ever had in my life. My parents met their parents in the early 70's right before the Shah was removed and the hostages were taken. Our family became their family as they were not allowed to go home. They could not even go to their Dad's funeral! Again, they are some of the most loving and beautiful folks you could know-they are both doctors now and American citizens! Peace be upon both our countries...thanks Rick for doing this piece and taking us there with you!
Love-
Nancy
Nancy McGrath <email>
Atlanta, GA USA 01/18/2009
iran
Does it not bother anyone that a sacred mosque has on its walls 'Death to Israel'?
gail jones
eureka, CA USA 01/18/2009
THANK YOU FOR IRAN AND THE FAMILY!
I want to let you know I came upon this channel tonight by accident while channel surfing. I am a black woman who is married to an iranian man. Thank you for producing this beautiful program on Iran and its people! I met my husband while training as a physican in the US 12 years ago and we became great friends. We then married and have one daughter. He has been in US since he was 13 for education and to return to Iran when the war broke out. So he was stuck. Many people first ask me where did I get such a "diffrent" name, When I tell them that my husband is Iranian, the next question they ask, if I am afraid that my husband is going to take my daughter to Iran and not come back!? I know that prejudice is out of fear of the unknown and ignorance. The movie "not without my daughter" is what most remember of Iran. I chose to not get upset, and keep an open mind.
We will visit his family oneday in Iran. For the first few years, I was wary to go because of the relationship between US and Iran and the possibly war. Also my ignorance. Your show on Iran was great. This is the kind of show that can make a change in the minds of people. My daughter and I was fastenated, as we watched your documentary. It gave me a different picture of Iran that I have never seen before, of a beautiful, rich in history and in its people. I want to thank you for showing my daughter's rich history! Also thank you for giving me and understanding of the inlaws.
b talebi <email>
columbia, ga USA 01/18/2009
Iran
Thank you for the Iran program. Your tone felt, as always, respectful and engaged, absent any judgment. The newsreel footage provided good background/context. There was deep poignancy throughout the program; that country has a terrible leader and good people, not unlike the US for the past 8 years. I am hopeful that your program, like so much of your travel work, builds bridges for all of us.
Thanks.
C.J.Anthony
Davis, CA USA 01/18/2009
Thanks for a great show on Iran
Having traveled and spent time in a Islamic country I must agree with you in that the people are great and do treat their visitors as guests of honor. I know the feeling you expressed of the fear when you left to go to Iran and the great friends you made while there. I have many friends in that part of the world who are of the Islamic faith and they have always treated me very well and we have had some of the greatest conversations I have ever experienced. Thanks again and hopefully someday you will get to host a trip with American tourists going with you as I want to go with you. John
John Haight <email>
Twin Falls , ID USA 01/18/2009
Rick Steves' Iran
I want to thank you for an excellent and thoughtful program on Iran. The hour-long special was very informative, objective and respectful. I was especially impressed with the interaction you had with the locals. Once again thank you so very much for an excellent program, it's made me want to travel to Iran at some point.
Ernesto Daniel <email>
San Francisco, CA USA 01/18/2009
Good work in Iran
From the number of comments, the show on Iran obviously hit a nerve--a good one. I hope this will encourage the Steves to do more "out of Europe" experiences to help broaden the view of Americans of the people with whom they share our lonely planet. Keep championing understanding and friendship between people and the governments may just follow. Thanks. Perhaps this may even inspire "citizens" to move beyond what their governments have espoused for so long and actually create a ground swell of movement of people and their ideas between countries with a long and interesting history. Many educated Iranians live in the US; perhaps Iran can be encouraged to be open enough to allow a reverse of the flow of people.
Rik Berry <email>
Morehead, KY USA 01/18/2009
Second Iran Trip Needed
Rick,
Good job, but I was looking forward to seeing the great snow capped mountains, ski resorts, and Iran's Northern Forests along with the Beaches (Caspian and Persian Gulf). I hope you will cover them next time soon.
In the meantime your viewers may want to check it out for themselves by going to www.presstv.com/Programs/ and choose the program titled "Iran".
Oscar
Portland, OR USA 01/18/2009
Mr. Steves,
Mr. Steves, when you examine the muslim world, especially their culture regarding women -- what they should wear or how they should conduct themselves in public, you must also have thought about how abhorrent the standards in America for women must be to them. I was a little disappointed at how you presented the Iranian culture and also their theocratic society, which is with the American standards. I am not an Iranian, but I know the world has many differnt ways of life, and that is what your show is all about, isn't it? To show the differences of how peoples live or what they belive, not to glorify them or doubt them, but to help us understand the world a little better.
Aletta Banks <email>
Austin, TX USA 01/17/2009
Iran
I have never been so enlightened. This film should be seen by all Americans. I believe it to be an authentic tool for healing between our two countries.
Mr. Steves, this is your best work. Such a contribution to the world. This deserves a showing in places above and beyond the travel channels.
It is an actual light unto humanity!
Brenda
Killeen, TX USA 01/17/2009
Iran presentation
I thoroughly enjoyed discovering the pleasant faces and hearing the Iranian's welcoming comments to Rick Steeves. To see the ruins of Persepolis and mosque architecture made me wish I could travel there tomorrow. Why can't we just live freely and enjoy each other and our histories! Very positive!
Janice Rose
Houston, TX USA 01/17/2009
Peace for Iran
Dear Mr. Sreves,
I am so grateful for your attempt to show the human face of Iran in time the US government is beating on the drums of war. I always wished that people in America could see other cultures as equally meaningful and valuable as theirs is. I thought that was important the you mentioned the CIA Cou of Mr. Mussadiq and the reinstallment of Pro-US Shah.
Lulu Solomon
Ausitn , TX USA 01/17/2009
Iran
Rick, thank you for such a fair and enlightened view of modern Iran. I visited the country myself, back in 1978, at the tail-end of the Shaw's regime. In fact, I was on one of the last commercial flights out of the country! So I was excited to see how it had changed there after so many years. It was interesting to see the difference of how it appears today, versus what I saw 30 years ago. Most striking, especially compared to many of today's big Western cities, was how clean and well maintained Tehran, Shiraz, and Esfahan appeared. No graffitti, no flying plastic garbage bags in the streets(or did you plan your shots accordingly, and we just saw the good stuff?). I survived two attempted kidnappings in the Grand Baazar of Tehran, but of course there was a lot more instability there at that time. Things appear to be calmer and safer, if also more restrictive, although the Shaw and his SAVAC police were pretty restrictive too.
30 years ago, Persian women were fascinated with European styles, especially those that they managed to import from Germany and France. It was not unusual to see a woman remove her chaddour in the privacy of her home, only to reveal high heels, a tubetop and skinny jeans underneath! By the looks of todays Persian women that you were able to film (especially with those who attempted to dye their hair blond!), that fascination is still alive, if less apparent to those outside the family circle (namely you guys).
Would love to see you do spots in some other spots, say Tunisia, Algeria, and Morrocco (loved your daughter Jackie's blog on Morrocco! I totally related to her story of toting water to the house!)Education really is the key to peace. Best regards and many thanks for all you do to help us Americans remember we aren't the sole inhabitants of this planet!
Jacqui
Austin, TX USA 01/17/2009
Assyrian People
Thank you Mr. Steves for an insightful and almost perfect look into Iran and its cultures. You mentioned the various races that make up Iran: Persian, Armenian, Greek, Azerbaijani, Kurdish, etc. But one big omission was the Assyrians who are decendents of Mesopotamia. I appreciate greatly you speaking about Gilgemash and the Mesopotamians in a historical sense, but Assyrians seem to be the forgotten or lost people of the Middle East, and it would just make such a difference to hear our name mentioned as part of these shows because we have no home country of our own, and are a relevant part of Iranian society.
Michelle
Modesto, CA USA 01/17/2009
Iran
I agree that all Americans should see this program. I was so enlightened by your wonderful production covering the lives and thoughts of the Assyrian people. It was great to hear that they love Americans. Thank you!
Cindy
Burlington, WI USA 01/17/2009
high five
from one who has never been to Iran I congratulate you on your genuine effort to promote peace and understanding with your intelligent and compassionate program. One moment in the program especially interesting for me was Mr Steves comment that in the USA we keep religion and government separate. Of course I don't have to tell you that some fellow citizens ardently contest this doctrine of separation. For me this program reinforces how important it is to support maintaining separation of church and state.
travel lou
Denver , CO USA 01/17/2009
Understanding
Just saw Iran thru your eyes. You got it! Seeing and relating is to cultural understanding as trust is to sincere care. Understanding and agreement are clearly not the same, but importantly connected.
Dave <email>
Eagle River, WI USA 01/17/2009
Iran
I watched your TV show on WBPT last night (01/16/2009) conerning Iran. I thought it was great and gave a better understanding of its people. It's too bad that politics are always involved in whatwe could better understand. Pleae keep up your travel journals on radio and TV. They are always informative.
Jim Basanyi <email>
Margate, Florid USA 01/17/2009
Iran
I watched your TV show on WBPT last night (01/16/2009) conerning Iran. I thought it was great and gave a better understanding of its people. It's too bad that politics are always involved in what we could better understand. Please keep up your travel journals on radio and TV. They are always informative.
Jim Basanyi <email>
Margate, Florid USA 01/17/2009
Iran...a lesson?
Great program, as always! As an Iranian-American, I was esp. ecstatic to see this episode.
A few take-aways:
1. Religion and politics do NOT mix, not in Iran, not in USA, not anywhere;
2. Iran/Persia is made up of people from various religions (Zoroasterians, Jews, Christians, Moslems, Baha'is, et al) and ethnicities (Persian, Assyrian, Turks, Azeris, Kurds, Armenians, et al). We are ALL Iranian first, then IF needed at all, the regligious/ethnic lable;
3. Rick....you didn't emphasize the cuisine long enough;
4. I have NEVER seen anyone eat Saffron straight...what is WRONG with you? I can't imagine what it must have tasted like. We use saffron in rice and various kabobs all the time; and
5. You did your homework well despite other comments made.
Thanks again for a GREAT program and for shedding more light on Iran and the HUGE potential of friendly relationship between US and Iran.
Give me my wallet, I'm buying the DVD.
Ali <email>
Clive, IA USA 01/17/2009
visions of my friend's home
One of my best friends in college was from Tehran. Since the Iran-Iraq war was going on at the time he was unable to return home between semesters. He came home with me and was "adopted" into our family. My granny from rural NC even fell in love with him and treated him as a grandson. Now he designs the next generation of chips for Intel. I've always wanted to go and see his home but it's not so easy. The closest I've come is flying over Tehran coming back from Dubai. Thanks for giving me a great peek into the sights and sounds of Iran. One day I'll have to see, hear, and taste Iran for myself.
David McNeill <email>
Raleigh, NC USA 01/17/2009
Well Done!
I am so proud of what you have reported about Iran, Rick! Thank you for your open-mindedness and willingness to tackle the relationship between the U.S. and Iran. Well done!
Nancy Hultquist
Atlanta, Ga USA 01/17/2009
Syria is next!!!!!!
Rick,
Your next middle country should be Syria. Syria is an incredible country, It's capital "Damascus" is the oldest continues city in the world. It has some of the oldest churches in the world and it is easy to travel around without restrictions. My name is Maya Atassi, I was born and raised in Syria and now I live in Atlanta, GA. I will be more than happy to tell you more about Syria and even be there if you go there so I can show you around. I know a lot about the history of Syria and about the most important destinations to visit there!
Maya Atassi <email>
Atlanta, GA USA 01/17/2009
Iran
Your program on Iran gave me a new appreciation of the richness and beauty of the country as well as some understanding of the Iranian people. Such programs should help to break down political barriers that cause conflict between the USA and Iran. We need more programs of this type.
Loyce Moskow
Evanston, IL USA 01/17/2009
Great program Rick. One can only wish we could have more of these "unfiltered", people to people, programs without the built-in prejudice from either goverments. It would only "humanize" and enhance understanding. Great contribution!
Carl Albert Osmon <email>
Atlanta, GA USA 01/17/2009
Rick Steves' Iran
I saw this two evenings ago and can't stop thinking about it. It was spellbinding and I've been alerting everyone I know to watch for it. Programs like this make me feel hopeful that peace is possible.
Barbara Winter <email>
Las Vegas, NV USA 01/17/2009
Iran
How refreshing to see Iranians in a positive light. My two half sisters are half-Persian and married two brothers from Shiraz. Thank you Rick Steves for capturing my family's culture so beautifully.
Jessica
Portland , OR USA 01/17/2009
Iran coments
What a wonderful program! What wonderful people!It just proves when people get together they seem to get alone no matter what the goverments say's or does I have new found respect for Iran and it's people!!I always thought the people of Iran hated Americans. I found out that was completely wrong!!!!
Steve Cortese <email>
Philadelphia, Pa USA 01/17/2009
incredible courage
I want to thank you. As an Iranian/American who lived half of my life in Iran and half in california,USA i want these two country become friends and we put any religion barrier aside . people who previousely were shown hate on tv there were force by government to march otherwise they lose their job and income. thanks for making people aware and separating people's belief and government behavior from each other.you are a great asset to our countries.
kian
laguna Niguel, ca USA 01/17/2009
Iran/PBS
Rick,
Thanks for your program on Iran and all that are shown on PBS , they are a real joy and education . I feel like a world traveler with you . GOD bless you .
Rich ,ST.George GA USA
Richard Lyczak
ST.George, GA USA 01/17/2009
Iran show
Thanks for all the great work you do to make the world a more fun place for those of us who like to venture out in it. (or even just watch you bring it to us!)
I Just watched the Iran program - really great! Really inspirational! Thanks so much for your emphasis on getting to know each other better.
Do you think you can work out a travel exchange program that somehow works into President Obama's new program USService.org?
Best wishes - good travels
Have fun!
Marti
Marti E Kranzberg
San Diego, CA USA 01/17/2009
wonderful coverage of Iran!
Enjoy all your shows, the privelege of being able to travel w/ you! But i especially appreciated this show, being able to better understand the people of Iran and see how they live. Thank you for representing America there in such a great way, bringing friendship and peace to these people! You covered this nation very completely and the attitude you portrayed of the people there brought me great hope!
beth hanson <email>
Boise, ID USA 01/17/2009
Rick Steves' Iran / PBS
Great work on the recent Iran trip. Speaking as a refugee from Iran who is lucky enough to live in this great country America; I warn against glorifying a nation that is still an enemy that outwardly threatens our Western democracy and those of our closest allies. After all, somebody in the modeling agency business like myself would probably get executed living in Iran. http://www.commercialscouts.com . The people may say they want an end to Islamic Government but, their inner values do not reflect that; despite any outward appearence of modernization as depicted in your program.
Amir Khalatbari <email>
La Jolla, CA USA 01/17/2009
Iran
Thank you Rick! Your trip to Iran was one of the most interesting programs I have seen in quite some time! Gives a whole new perspective on a country and people we know so little about other than what is in the news. Fascinating! I can't wait to see it when it airs again and have my family sit down and experience it with me! Great Job!
Helen Cheryl.
Boise, Idaho USA 01/17/2009
Rick Steves' Iran
Wonderful. I was wondering when you might venture to the middle east. Thank you so much for such an amazing exposure of a wonderful culture and it's open and wonderful people.
Leslie <email>
Rohnert Park, CA USA 01/17/2009
Great Job!!!
We just watched the program and are awestruck by what a great job Rick did.
He was able to bring out the best in the Iranians he met and with his low key style was able to win over some of the locals. As frequent travelers ourselves, we appreciate Rick's antidote to the "Ugly American" stereotype and recommend him for the Medal of Freedom award. Are you reading this Mr. Obama?
Frank & Steph Oravetz
Santa Rosa, CA USA 01/17/2009
Iran
You deserve much praise for the insights you offered us into a land little known. Amazing job. A must viewing for all in order to expand the truth, cutting through negative propaganda we have been fed.
Olga Resta <email>
Carlsbad, Ca USA 01/17/2009
Al Pasquale
I just watched your visit to Iran.
You can,t believe that knowing the citizens of Iran will begin to make it all well.
They are great people
The religious fanatics and the 10 percent of the people who support them
are dangerous and the 90 percent have no power to take their country back.
We can thank Jimmy Carter for that.
I was disappointed in your statetments they were so naive.
I do however enjoy your shows and books.
USA 01/17/2009
Iran
What a wonderful, accurate and welcome portrayal of Iran. It just goes to show you that a nation's government is not necessarily representative of the heart of its people. I visited Iran in 1973, before the revolution, and was distressed to see how people there feared the Shah, who we propped up. There was a real tension there and I never understood why America didn't see the revolution coming a few years later. It was backlash. Still, there is a large, educated middle class in Iran and for some reason they are fond of America. With some effort and respect, Iran could become an ally and not an enemy of our nation.
Kathy
Salem, Oregon USA 01/17/2009
Rick
Thank You!
Is The
Man, TX USA 01/17/2009
Thank you.
Thank you for this show. It enlightened me about this most vilified nation.
Andrew Kempter <email>
Portland, OR USA 01/17/2009
Iran
Just watched on OPB the Iranian broadcast and found it very fastenating. To relize that our differences between us is not the people, but our governments stubborness to understand each other. Other than the politics, Rick painted a different picture of Iran that I have never seen before of a beautiful, rich in history and in its people. Great job in your presentation.
Paul <email>
Portland, Or USA 01/17/2009
Rick, Thank you for using your influence as a popular travel writer to make this important program. Witnessing the humanistic qualities of the Iranian people is unfortunately a rarity on US television.
Dan
SAN FRANCISCO, CA USA 01/17/2009
Citized Diplomacy
Your program was most illuminating. Its intent of your "citizen diplomacy" reminded me of Sergei Rogov's visit to Portland, Oregon in the 1980's. At the height of Soviet antipathy during the Reagan administration, I asked Secretary Rogov why he was here. He said, "I am an old soldier and I am tired and I have learned that it is much more difficult to shoot someone whom you know rather than someone whom you do not know. That is why I am here."
Jeffrey Lockwood <email>
Albany, OR USA 01/17/2009
YOUR SHOW BROUGHT PEOPLE TOGETHER
Rick, your show has really changed my life. Thanks for helping me connect with my two new Iranian friends.
Please see this film also, Bam 6.6 http://www.essenceofiran.com/html/home.html It's about the 2003 earthquake in Iran.
I have found the Iranian people to be warm and friendly.
Bonnie <email>
Arcadia, CA USA 01/17/2009
Peaceful People
Rick,
You did a great service to our nation and well as to the people of Iran with your daring travel to Iran to show what is really there. It seems too often that people want peace while our governments want war. Hopefully understanding will prevail over fear and peace will be given a chance.
Mike Hons <email>
Vallejo, CA USA 01/17/2009
Rick Steves' Iran
Wow!!! I just finished watching Rick steves'Iran , on PBS.Just can't say enough THANK you for being so brave to go and be so honest and show the real Iranians,feelings and the truth behind Persian traditions .
Thanks a million.
A PROUD PERSIAN-AMERICAN
Negar Ansari <email>
Portland, OR USA 01/17/2009
Amazing video about Iran
Thanks for sharing your trip. Amazing, what an amazing place!! I have wanted to go to Iran for a few years and work or study or whatever just to go there. God loves the people of Iran. They are very special and beautiful in his eyes. In the depth of his heart. The longing of his heart. The eyes of his heart upon them.
Toni <email>
San Diego, CA USA 01/17/2009
Absolutely Wonderful
Rick. Would like to thank you and your crew. In these difficult times when all we hear is negative news, it was great to see someone take a positive approach. I believe that you said everything that could be said under the constraints that may have been imposed. The quality was also splendid. As we would say in Farsi, Khoda omret bedeh (may God bless you with a long life).
HE
Los Gatos, CA USA 01/17/2009
The rest of the world is already there!
Thank you for bringing back memories of Tehran and Shiraz. Now my friends can see some of the places I have visited. I appreciate your comments about the Western tourism presence in Shiraz. I would also like to see more mention in the US media about the enormous investment of Asia ( Japan, China and Korea) in all aspects of industrial Iran. I agree with the tourists that Iran will be a very big tourism destination soon, especially with its historical connections with the Silk Road.
Leslie Atiyeh
Newberg, OR USA 01/17/2009
Thank you for the unprecedented glimpse into the Iranian world. Often our governments and the powers that be try and succeed on exploiting the fear of the unknown. More work like yours will only bring the world community closer.
Bravo!
DL
USA 01/16/2009
IRAN
IRAN realy is a very beautiful country and a very beautiful people. and i want to thank OPB and i want to thank MR. RICK STEVES for the ecxelent program about IRAN.
JENARO <email>
PORTLAND, or. USA 01/16/2009
IRAN
Thanks Rick for showing Iran as it is: a country with a rich history and a great potential. I was impressed by the beauty of the cities and monuments as well as by the openness of the Iranian people. It was the perfect vehicle to show that Americans and Iranians have a lot in common.
Cheers to you Rick, and keep traveling so we can travel along with you!
Willy
Houston, TX USA 01/16/2009
Iran
Stunning, absolutely stunning! Thank you so much for having the wisdom and vision to tour Iran, letting us see for ourselves the real country and its beautiful people. My heart was completely uplifted.
V Bagatti
Carmichael, CA USA 01/16/2009
Iranians - warm and fuzzy?
An informative and interesting show. I appreciated Rick's nod to his own modest knowledge of modern Iran.
The "We love Americans" refrain from the Iranians interviewed made them sound very open - but their ideas about love across international borders should have been more deeply explored. Why didn't Rick ask them how they felt about certain other people - like the Israelis? If Iranians are really a warm and fuzzy people, like Rick's show maintains, perhaps he could have given them a chance to prove themselves. I suspect however that their response to such a question would have led to a far less favorable depiction of the Iranian people.
Russ
Paradise, CA USA 01/16/2009
Iran - Persia
I really enjoyed your show and caught it totally by accident while going through the channels. Part of my ancestry is Persian (from Tehran)so it was great to learn more about my heritage. My family was Persian Jewish and at one time (supposedly) a very well accepted group dating back many years before the Arab conquest and Islam. My hope is that Iran becomes stable enough and open enough that someday I will be able to visit and see what you saw.
Thank you for such an interesting show.
Don K
cleveland, ohio USA 01/16/2009
Long 30 years!
Ever since the Iranian Revolution and Hostage Crisis, we've gotten a strongly biased view of Iran here in the West. Iran is a complex topic, and you did a great job of breaking it down and humanizing the place. Many thanks!
Amy
Portland, Oregon USA 01/16/2009
Changed quite a lot since the 70's as have we
Interesting that my first post here required me to enter the word "militants" to post about Iran :-}
Sad but true, I am sure Rick had to tight rope along the edge to make sure he said the right things....
And also sure that it is not our presidents stand, but the Iranian tone of destruction that dictates the relationship...
But getting past all the political statements, I had the wonderful experience of working with Bell Helicopter in Tehran for 3 years in the seventies but I must have missed those parks in and around Tehran or Isfahan!!!
My memories of Isfahan were of the 'license plates' on every valuable tree that you would have to pay for if you killed one :)
The boiling desert in the summer and the snows in Tehran in the winter !!!
A painted desert between Tehran and Isfahan that put our's to SHAME :-}
Saw MANY places we went to while living on the north east side of the north bazzar not far from the palace!
Road our motorcycles and land rovers around the Caspian Sea and into the Alborz Mountains...
Something we will never forget !
Along with Hamid and Nahid - among some of the wonderful, graceous friends we met there... like Our Swiss educated landlords that was a Major in Savat was the nicest to us too !
An Old Visitor
DFW, Tx USA 01/16/2009
A Country with 3000 history
Awesome, beautiful, marvelous, stunning, great and completely different job. I'd like to extremely appreciate your work on behalf of all Iranian here in US. You showed real Iran and its nice and cultured people. I just wanna say that the mirrors and slogans you saw on the walls (against US) is not Iran's people words and the Mullahs try to push people to think this way. Keep going Rick.
Saeed <email>
Chicago, IL USA 01/16/2009
Peoples vs government views of Iran
What a wonderful program giving the peoples view and not just the paranoid government view. We are missing so many historic sites because of the fears installed in us by the USA government. A beautiful country with many many historic sites. I will watch it again if it re-airs. You have done a great service for truth and honesty.
Mary Ann
Chicago, IL USA 01/16/2009
Iran
I was a resident of Bandar Abbas when the Shah left town. This US citizen aerospace worker was not far behind him. The country is as beautiful as ever. As always, typical geat Rick Steves work. Thanks for sharing the history of the country with the American people. PS, the luggage purchased from Rick Steves a few years ago still looks new after several hundred thousand air miles. Wow!
Fred Kirby
Coos Bay, Oregon USA 01/16/2009
Iran through rose colored glasses
- We watched your travelogue on Iran last night on OPB. Your shows are typically informative but yet, a bit too sanguine and superficial for many of us who have, like you, been traveling in earnest since we were young. (Our parents, all 4 in their 70s however, love your shows.)
However, none of us could quite believe what we were watching last night. (First off, it is hard to believe that you could go all the way to Iran, spend what must have been months just trying to get permits, etc. to film, and only come back with 50 minutes of useable tape!)
What was most bothersome, Rick, is how apologetic you came off throughout the show. There was a nauseating disingenuousness of your entire narrative. Implying by selective interviews that the people of Iran “love Americans”, as if there are not hundreds of thousands “hard-liners” in Iran who have nothing but disdain for this country and its citizens. In the interest of fairness, if not integrity, don’t you think you had an obligation to air their opinions?
And to say that Iranians “accept and tolerate” other religions is just not true! Persecutions of both Christians and Jews from 1979 forward have been common. Thousands from both religions were forced to leave their homeland by Khomeinies’ revolutionary thugs. Yes, education is free for Muslims but Jews and even Christians, are precluded from attending the top schools or holding any positions of respectability.
After commenting on the mosque which displayed a “Death to Israel” banner inside its prayer halls, you made a strange inference to how this represents Iran’s resistance to the “West trying to impose its values, etc.” Israel is not trying to impose its values on anyone. Israel is just trying to survive! You should have asked these professed “lovers of Americans” if that includes Jews as well, noting that Judaism is a religion, not a nationality.
It is Iran which is trying to influence other nation states by exporting its theocratic, fundamentalist Islamic philosophy in Lebanon and Palestine by funding and arming both Hezbollah and Hamas, both of which, are fundamentalist Islamic terror organizations. And, by funding and training Shiite militias in Iraq. These Iranian fomenters of hate and destruction do not love Americans. They are trying to kill Americans.
It was wonderful that you were able to share some of the luxuries with a wealthy Iranian family on your birthday. But as you must have surely observed, most Iranians are obligated to a life of endless toil with little prospects for a brighter future as a result of high unemployment and a burgeoning birth rate.
We realize that you were constrained during your time there but once you have returned to a place where you are able to speak freely (aren’t we lucky!), you could (and should have) have been more honest in your assessment of the situation in Iran.
R.W. Burnett
RW Burnett <email>
Portland, OR USA 01/16/2009
Iran
During the show you stated that your time in country was May. Yet at the end the credits stated filmed in April 2009, three months hence?
Barn Franke
Beverly Hills, ca USA 01/16/2009
Iran-Alive and well in the 21st Century
This type of program is long overdue. Thank you, Rick Steves for showing Americans that Iranians living in Iran are very much like us. Until I saw this program I thought Iranians living in France were the lucky ones. Instead, I saw a living breathing Farsi culture that has survived despite being 'conquered' numerous times. As Rick was reminded more than once, Iranians are not Arab. Iran is now one place I would love to visit. Look past the veiling and gender separations, look past the graffiti. The country is beautiful and the people warm and genuine. We should be the same.
Danalee Lavelle <email>
Sacramento, CA USA 01/16/2009
Thanks a lot.
Thanks a lot.
Mehrdad Ghaffari
Tehran, IRAN 01/16/2009
the new leni riefenstahl
Steve, you're a talented filmmaker. I bet you could have gone to Germany in the 1930's and found great architecture, fine food, and friendly folk. We're all human, we all want peace & love, what's to worry?
Surely, having traveled the world, you are not that naive.
All the good things you point out about the Iranians do not cancel out the fact that they are BUILDING A BOMB and FUNDING HAMAS AND HEZBOLLAH. The taxes paid by these 'friendly folks' pay for IED'S aimed at Americans in Iraq. (At least you showed the 'death' to Israel' sign in a mosque.
Your video amounts to government-funded propaganda for appeasement, the policy favored by American liberals & the incoming admin. You are their tool.
One key thing you showed about the Persian culture is that they value strength. I think you quoted people saying they admire the Ayatollah, and some of your congratulators say they are fans of the Shah. Iran as a country is a regional power & seeks to expand its power, to the detriment of American's allies there. If we pursue a policy of appeasement in the Middle East, we may end up a dusty ruin like Persepolis.
I still liked your films, though. Just please be aware when you are promoting a dangerous viewpoint & stay away from politics.
If you think my claim you are biased is bogus, let's see you make a film about the beauties of Israeli culture & let's see PBS fund that.
actual evanston conservative
evanston, IL USA 01/16/2009
Shukran/Shukriya/Mamnoon Am
Thank you for showing this film. It's a shame that it could not have been longer or a two-part series. It was so refreshing to see normal, everyday Iranians doing their business rather than the constant barrage of rhetoric from media. No country is perfect and America is the last to claim perfection, but it was nice to learn about the prejudice and perceptions from THEIR point of view. The rationalizations can help me understand even if I don't want to agree necessarily. I find that usually people just want to live their lives - even here in the U.S. we don't always have time to care precisely what our government is up to at all levels. I hope you will consider having a part-two someday. This was quality TV at its best, if a little watered-down it seemed. I loved seeing the scenary and listening to the voices of Iranians in all their dialects of Farsi.
Tonya
Cleveland, OH USA 01/16/2009
your visit to Iran
I have been living here in the State since 1978, 30 years ago. When I saw your program on OPB last night 1/15/09, I was very flattered with all the hospitality and friendliness of people of Iran towards you. Of course it was nothing new to me since I knew how the ordinary people of Iran feel about Americans and how they enjoy being friend with them.
So, I was very excited to get a copy of your visit to Iran and share it with my colleague. However, when I went to your website, I was very disappointed!
On your slide show, you made Iran worse than what they have been showing on the every days news. You only showed the hatred of Iran towards Americans and how old fashion and ugly looking they were! Didn't see any pictures of your travel to Shiraz or other nice places you went, our 2500 years of rich past, our monuments, and our fashionable, friendly and good looking gals/guys and most of all their hospitality.
TOO BAD TOO SAD!
Portland, OR USA 01/16/2009
Iran
I was totally blown away by this program! For years I had wanted to visit the Middle East, but I lost interest and figured that was now a lost cause after we invaded Iraq. But I have to say, I found myself smiling through the entire show, and now my desire to go there is even greater than before. Now if I can just find the funds.....BTW, I am wondering if you had female crew members with you. How were they treated? Did they have the freedom to engage people (both genders) in the street as you did? I also heard your interview on NPR with the travel consultant, which sparked my interest in watching this show. You've probably done more for world peace right now than anyone else! Thanks so much!
Deborah Ellis
Milwaukie, OR USA 01/16/2009
Iran
I thought your program on everyday life in Iran was wonderful and right on the mark. I lived in Esfahan for four years, leaving after the revolution and I still have trouble calling 'Maiden Shah' by its post-revolution name. I was even wearing earrings that I had purchased in the gold shop you showed in the bazaar. It was good to see the Iranians welcome you as they would any guest. My Iranian in-laws are and were wonderful people. As for the politics, RW Burnett calls it rose-colored glasses. Please tell RW to speak up, I can't hear him over the noise of the bombs in Palestine.
H Vahabzadeh
Houston, TX USA 01/16/2009
Mr. Steves - I've not been so moved by a TV show in recent memory. The images and your story line are great. But, your Intentions... which are easily understood between the lines... Your Intentions are Magnificent ! I hope this is the beginning of more "like minded" efforts geared towards Empathy. No one else does this like you do.
Kudos to you, Brother
Paul Harriman
Sacramento , USA 01/16/2009
Iran
Thank you. What a beautiful country! The one Iranian woman said it best when she commented that it is the governments that have issues with each other, not the common person on the street. If we really got to know each other, rather than listening to second hand propaganda, we would see that we are all citizens of this blue planet and we really aren't very different from one another. Your travel programs open that door. Keep up the good work.
Mommalu
Litchfield, OH USA 01/16/2009
Broadening Our Horizon
Rick, I like to thank you for your film. I can imagine how hard it was to show the truth with all the restrictions given. This film shows the commonality of all human beings when we take out two factors, politics and religion. There is a truth love affair that Iranians have towards the American people. When you ask their opinion about the government of US, however; you will get a different answer. Iranian people have learned to separate people from government actions. This is something that all people should learn to do, especially those making harsh comments below.
Some facts for those of you claiming that Iran is not tolerant towards other religions especially Jews: Iran is the only country in the Middle East who has Jewish people living amongst the Muslims. Jewish people attend the same colleges and seek the same education as other Muslims. They have positions as doctors, lawyers, engineers and even political officials. They live very freely in all neighborhoods of Iran. The same goes for Christians. There are no hostility amongst the Iranian people and Christiana and Jews. The only hostility is amongst the government of these big nations who are after their own interests and the naïve people who repeat what they hear with out doing their own research.
This film was not a political program. It was simply insight to the Iranians culture and people.
Thank you again for broadening our perspective.
USA 01/16/2009
Thank you, Rick!
A brilliantly filmed program which should be required viewing for everyone in Congress, the President's office, and the State Department. Thank you, Rick, for portraying Iran as it is and people-to-people without the inter-governmental rhetoric which so often clouds what we see and hear in the media. The number of Iranians who speak English is amazing - how many Americans who aren't of Iranian heritage speak Farsi? Iran as you showed it is impressive, with its Zoroastrian and Persian Empire history, the mosques, and the friendliness,openness, and hospitality of the people. One gets the feeling that it would be quite safe to walk, for example. Tehran's and Isfahan's streets after dark, which mirrors my experiences in Islamic countries and contrasts with the situation in many U.S. cities.
Jim
South Coast, Oregon USA 01/16/2009
thanks so much
i loved watching it last night thanks for showing america that iran is amazing place to travel to
i respect that :) because i live in portland oregon
and people asking how is life in iran all the time
i was born in iran tehran
Negin <email>
Portland , or USA 01/16/2009
Iran
Thank you so much for a beautiful program! Thank you for reminding others to be open-minded and learn about other cultures - especially cultures that are often only vilified by media. Your program filled me with hope - something that I haven't much about the world in a long time. I hoped that other viewers felt the same - but was gravely disappointed to read some of the hateful and close-minded responses on this comment page. I can only thank you again for this beautiful program - and hope that it opens the minds and hearts of others.
Sharon S.
Golden, CO USA 01/16/2009
Iran
Thank YOU Rick the Iran trip was so very enlighting, I always knew the people don't have a problem -only the goverments. I absolutly enjoyed this trip with you. Thank you again @ more on Iran please, we all need to see past the media misinformation. Blessings Jan Gardner in Eugene OR.
Jan Gardner <email>
Eugene, OR USA 01/16/2009
Rick,
What a WONDERFUL documentary. I really enjoyed it. Thank you very much and wish you lots of luck.
Niusha
Dallas, TX USA 01/16/2009
More Iran
PLEASE do another show on Iran we need to see each other as real people. PLEASE RETURN TO IRAN FOR MORE. In shows like this we can see the real everyday lives of people of Iran as like ourselves, jobs,kids,traffic,familys,ect. Jan
Jan Gardner
Eugene, or USA 01/16/2009
Iran - fine folks friendliness depicted !
Rick, very skillfully, delicately and tastefully done ! Your film showed it's true that friendlines and warmth abound when folks see and encounter Americans. As America is founded on Christian ideals: God's Love at it's base, it's easy to see why folks worldwide love us ! Your work is Great !
ASA WELDON <email>
Houston, TX USA 01/16/2009
Iran
Thank you for your excellent documentary on Iran and the warmth of its people.
I find that we in the west have been indoctrinated by anti Iranian propaganda, namely from a third party that craves for American favors. I am speaking of Israel and the wrongs they are doing to the Palestinian people.
America, wake up to the genuine beauty of Iran and welcome their people with open arms.
John Shaw
Hamilton, On Canada 01/16/2009
Beautiful, really beautiful
I got shocked
What a beautifull country, waht a reach super-culture. why? really why we don't know Iran? I can't believe what I watched last night it was beautiful.
Thanks a lot for your show, rick.
Benjamin
Denver, CO USA 01/16/2009
Thank you, Rick!
You opened our eyes to the beauty of Iran and it's people. We had no idea! You've done more to improve relations than our religious and political leaders! You are a true Goodwill ambassador. Bless you!
Mike and Vicki
CO USA 01/16/2009
Finally a Fair Portrayal of Iran
Before posting my comment, I read all the other comments here. I saw that almost all the comments were favorable, which makes me happy because that shows that many Americans (at least those who watch PSB) are opening their minds to learning about Iran.
Those comments which were negative were for the most part related to politics and religion. This is typical. If you had come to the U.S. as a tourist and asked all kinds of people what they thought of Iran, many would have replied in the negative. But the young and educated, as well as the traditional people of Iran responded wonderfully about Americans.
Just because Iranians have their own view on things and a certain lifestyle does not meant that "they are wrong" and we are right.
I agree with the lady who posted the comments about Mr. Steves not knowing enough about Iran before arriving. Though the portrayal was fair, it was clear when Mr. Steves asked the two young girls if they met boys in the part (while a representative of the government was looking on!) that Mr. Steves did not fully understand that in Iranian society things are done differently and that is a good thing.
Yanina
Dallas, TX USA 01/16/2009
Thank you
Rick, I like to thank you for your film. I can imagine how hard it was to show the truth with all the restrictions given. This film shows the commonality of all human beings when we take out two factors, politics and religion. There is a truth love affair that Iranians have towards the American people. When you ask their opinion about the government of US, however; you will get a different answer. Iranian people have learned to separate people from government actions. This is something that all people should learn to do, especially those making harsh comments below.
Some facts for those of you claiming that Iran is not tolerant towards other religions especially Jews: Iran is the only country in the Middle East who has Jewish people living amongst the Muslims. Jewish people attend the same colleges and seek the same education as other Muslims. They have positions as doctors, lawyers, engineers and even political officials. They live very freely in all neighborhoods of Iran. The same goes for Christians. There are no hostility amongst the Iranian people and Christiana and Jews. The only hostility is amongst the government of these big nations who are after their own interests and the naïve people who repeat what they hear with out doing their own research.
This film was not a political program. It was simply insight to the Iranians culture and people.
Thank you again for broadening our perspective.
USA 01/16/2009
Rick,
Thank you for finally being one of the few who showed the real Iran. I happen to live in that country for many years, and was and am very much against that government. But let’s look at facts. First and foremost every American journalist who has visited Iran including Nicholas Kristoff (NY Times), Matt Laurel (NBC), Diane Sawyer (ABC) and host of others have said that they witnessed first hand that Iranian people have no hostility towards American PEOPLE. According to Kristoff Iranian people are the most pro American people in the Middle East. That sentiment has been resonated in numerous shows: Morning Joe, Nightline, Meet the Press and others. Also, according to BBC (Frances Harrison 9/22/2006) Iran has the most thriving Jewish community in the Middle East and is the only country outside of Israel that has a member of the Jewish faith in its parliament. They also can freely travel to and from Israel (BBC) (we currently don’t even allow anyone to travel to Cuba). There are many Christians (predominately Armenians and Assyrians) who live and prosper freely in that country as well.
Do all the people mentioned above have the evil intention such as you to show Iran in a good light or are they reporting the facts?
It is a shame that you try to educate the public about what is the real Iran and you have ignorant people who have never done research, never lived in that country, know nothing about the people and the history could just REGURJITATE what is being said in the hawkish pro war circles.
This show was about Iran the country, its culture and history, not about who the government is funding. Who ever wants to talk about funding people we could do that on another platform but just as a reminder we funded: Saddam Hussein (in the war against Iran), Al-Qaida(against the Russians), Taliban, Manuel Noriega cartel, Augusto Pinochet and etc…….. and also toppled the first democratically elected government (Iran’s) in the Middle East. But those policies do not represent America as country its cultures and its people, does it? Because I think I live in the best county (USA) in the world with great history and some of kindest and most philanthropic and giving people in the world.
USA 01/16/2009
BRINGING UNDERSTANDING
Your effort to promote understanding is to be commended. I hope that the majority of your viewers enjoyed the show as much as I did.
I would like to send a copy of the film to our president elect also please send one to our new Sec. of State. (You may bill me for all charges) Perhaps they will better understand that our political/social/economic dogma must be tempered with understanding the other's culture and values.
thank you for the good work to promote understanding and peace.
PEACE C Christie
PS your readers should not worry about nuclear weapons--they are all obsolete
as an offensive weapon and of little defensive use--they do make good fuel for our neclear power generators.
Chris Christie <email>
USA 01/16/2009
Loved your travelogue on Iran
Thanks Steve,
Great Program! I am sold. I am definitely going to Iran this Summer.
Plano, TX USA 01/16/2009
wonderful
I first heard Rick's interview on NPR regarding his special on Iran. His comments and insights were intriguing. I was very pleased to have caught the full show on my local affiliate of PBS last night. I was simply wonderful. The images are evocative. Rick's commentary was thoughtful and interesting. This show has affirmed that some day soon I must visit the beautiful and historic land of Iran.
Joy Gant
NJ USA 01/16/2009
Beautiful expression of the Iranian people
Rick,
Your beautiful presentation of Iran and, especially, it's wonderful people brought back fond memories the four years I lived there. I so want to return and renew my experience of the Iranian people (and the cuisine!),
Fred Hiltbrand
Colorado Springs
Fred Hiltbrand <email>
Colorado Springs, CO USA 01/16/2009
Iran
Wow, Rick, what a wonderful perspective on Iran. I've been a fan for many years and have always been impressed with your ability to connect with people of other cultures. Iran was no exception! Thank you for your work...it brought tears to my eyes, as well as opened them :)
Amy McConkey
Newland, NC USA 01/16/2009
Grat show-keep it up Rick
rick, thanks so much for shedding such a great light on the country of Iran- one of your best shows ever. Wished you could of shown a popular restaurant.
Peter
New Orleans, la USA 01/16/2009
Thank You
I am a young persian that has never been to Iran. I have always longed to go but am studying at a local college and do not have the time. I would like to say thank you so much for bringing Iran to me. Your respectful presentation gave the viewers the true beauty of the country and its people. I really enjoyed the special.
Apex, NC USA 01/16/2009
amazing
amazing... such an amazing country!!! thank you for showing the real face of a beautiful people. I hope that Obama gets to watch this.
n,a,
montreal, qc canada 01/16/2009
Excellent!
Just saw your special on Iran. Absolutely wonderful!! Really shows friendliness of the people.
Rick Steves Fan
Chapel Hill, NC USA 01/16/2009
Today's Iran
I always wondered how Iran had changed since we left some forty years ago after an eleven year stay. We lived in Zahedan, Kerman, and Tehran. During that time my father traveled to almost every corner of the country in his job as a civil engineer. My mother did extensive travels writing about the tribes, the country, and the culture for one of the two English language newspapers in Tehran. Earlier last year I saw Globe Trekker's Ian Wright's program covering his travel through Iran. Wright's and Steves' programs answered my curiosity and confirmed what I told my co-workers about the Iranians and their country. It is hard to convince those who have not been there that there is a difference between the rhetoric from their government and what many of the ordinary people think and feel. Although I've lived in fifteen countries and visited another seventy, I would still like to revisit Iran... maybe some day, inshallah.
WT
Colorado Springs, CO USA 01/16/2009
Great Iran Special!
Just saw your special on Iran. Great job! You just did an incredible service to humanity by showing Americans the down-to-earth side of Iranians. Thank you, Rick! Those who conjure up senseless, zenophobic hatred will have a tougher time now.
Lon <email>
Cincinnati, OH USA 01/16/2009
Thank You
Thank you Rick Steves!! This was a fantastic documentary on Iran and you have truly made me proud to say I come from such a beatuful country. And thank you for opening America's eyes to the people of Iran.
Arezu <email>
Lincoln, CA USA 01/16/2009
Great Iran show
Thank you for a most informative and beautiful program. I am an open-minded person who believes that all over the world people are basically the same: they want to be healthy, happy, prosperous and safe. I also believe that most people do not wish harm to others and want to learn and understand other cultures. You have done Americans a great service by portraying Iran because most people in the US know little about this country or its inhabitants in a time when the US Government is being encouraged by Israel to use preemptive military force against it. (Look where that got us in Iraq!). Western media often selectively depicts the Middle East in a negative way. Thank you for showing that Iranians are like all of us!
Patricia Dumais
Montreal, Quebec Canada 01/16/2009
IRAN program a must-see for America!
MAGNIFICENT!
Rick Steves you deserve commendation ofr this wonderful, ample, open, and diverse program.
This should be required viewing in every school and town hall in America!
It is a great reflection on the life and origins of a creative and vibrant people.
It opens the mind and explains a lot to be reminded how the US along with Britain overthrew Iranian democracy in 1953 in order to ensure Western control over oil. Ignorance breeds more ignorance and hatred.
Again the show was magnificent in it scope and presentation. Congratulations!
Alan Kobrin <email>
Miami, FL USA 01/16/2009
Travel to Iran
I always thought that Rick Steves was just the guy on PBS that had the best job in the world and got paid to travel. He has now taken his experience and showed us a part of the world that the Bush administration doesn't want us to see. It is much easier to attack or occupy a country with propaganda depicting religious fanatics firing rifles in the air. Thank you, Rick Steves, for giving us a fascinating glimpse of what it is truly like to visit this beautiful country.
Connie
Brevard, NC USA 01/16/2009
IRAN
Both my parents are Iranian and I was born here. I haven't been back to Iran since 1976. What a beautiful country. I am telling all my American friends to watch this program so that they can educate themselves and see how much Iran people love Americans. We are not all terrorists !
Mitra <email>
Doylestown, PA USA 01/15/2009
Thank you!
Thank you for showing people what a beautiful place Iran is. This program cleared alot of unreasonable thoughts about Iran and Iranians. Thank you Again!
Somayeh
Huntingtown, MD. USA 01/15/2009
nice job....
Rick, thanks for the wonderful view of a country not well understood by many Americans. I read through all the comments and it’s great to see how enlightened and surprised most commentators felt after watching the show. The few negative comments is, again, proof of hate that bellows from ignorance. I think your show was just right for the amount of time you had to fit the program in too. Your film reiterates that people are people, no matter where you go. You have love/hate, kindness/cruelty, wisdom/ignorance, etc/etc everywhere. However, it requires effort and willingness from individuals to think/look beyond the stereotypes presented by others.
Great job… hopefully you’ll be able to do more of it…
Ray
Arlington, MA USA 01/15/2009
I knew several Iranians in college.Many were unable to return home because of the Revolution. Now I see what they were missing! I didnt even know that Americans could safely travel there now. Merci.
Rob
Boston, ma USA 01/15/2009
Iran segnent
Learned a lot from the segment. Thank you for taking the risks to do it.
Charles
Boston, MA USA 01/15/2009
Great Program!
Rick, I thoroughly enjoyed your program and wanted to echo your positive outlook on the Iranian people. I'm a caricature artist who, when living in Columbia South Carolina, was blessed with one of my favorite clients: an Iranian family who would contract me to come and draw at big parties annually. Not only were they friendly and very hospitable, gracious hosts, but their delicious food was out of this world! I miss those parties and smiling faces.
I pray that the politicians can overcome their differences (ie: fanatics who oppress their citizens) and employ reason to avoid the unthinkable.
CartoonSteve <email>
Clarksburg, wv USA 01/15/2009
Sar Zamin (my homeland)
My name is Apoetnomadali..Poet for short. I am an Iranian American Hip Hop artist and I have written a song which connects with the dislocation the Iranian peoples feel from their homeland, especially if they are 2nd or 3rd generation. You can hear the song on an album I did with another collaborator at the site: www.basicpoetry.com. The album we did was entitled 1979 (the year of the revolution) It is track number 7 on the album entitled Sar Zamin and I hope you can connect with its passion. Rick thank you for your work!!!!
Apoetnomadali <email>
Mission Viejo, CA USA 01/15/2009
Travel to Iran
Rick,
Your show on Iran was brilliant indeed in many aspects. We (my English wife and two San Diegan CA daughters- adolescent , and myself – Iranian) have just got back from 10 day visit over X-mas holiday to Iran-Isfahan,- obviously we visited all the places you showed in Isfahan and we all enjoyed everything the country has to offer- did not see you eating any “Noon barbari” something we all loved to have for breakfast every morning. On the other side I truly agree with you that there is no animosity between the people of the two countries, all people are loving at heart, and as a matter of fact I am not even sure if there is any “true” hostility between our governments either. I believe there was some kind of hostility years ago (after revolution in 1979) and now both sides simply following what they’d been told to follow for years without knowing the true cause- it is almost like our relationship with Cuba, being only a matter of principle rather than any true justifications.
Mohammad
San Diego, CA
Mohammad <email>
San Diego, Ca USA 01/15/2009
Great show, Rick
This was an excellent look into Iran. I can only hope this gets rebroadcast multiple times so that more Americans can develop a positive view of the country and its people.
Erwin
Bozeman, MT USA 01/15/2009
Mullahs
Iran would be wonderful if and when Mullahs and Islam are gone. I left Islam and Iran because of these black heart ed animals. Iranians have been held hostage for 1400 years
Hossein
Mahmoodi, ca USA 01/15/2009
Iran Film
Thank you for your very enlightening film on Iran. The people seem so nice and friendly. I dare say you have done much for world peace in this endeavor and I hope our own leaders in the U.S. learn from this.
Tom <email>
Grandville, MI USA 01/15/2009
The Shah was noble.
This is a beautyful documentary showing REAL Iranians. I lived their 14 years under the Shah. My one regret is that you let yourself be blackmailed to say he was "proWestern and corrupt". My testimony is quite against that. He modernized the country and battled illiteracy amongst many other things. Shame on you!
Louis <email>
Tampa, Fl. USA 01/15/2009
Rick Steves' Iran
Your show on Iran aired on a Boston PBS station last evening. It was excellent! I was surprised how beautiful the country was and how friendly the people are. Too bad our two governments cannot get along.
Valerie
Gardner, MA USA 01/15/2009
Iran is not an Arab nation
Reading other comments I must clear a misunderstanding and make it clear Iran is not and Arab nation, it an ancient super-culture we all owe much to, in medicine, mathematics anacrhitecture, poetry, literature etc.
Islam has dominated them, as the Moors did in Spain, but their incredible grace, generosity and tolerance lives on in its people. Politicians ruin everything!
Louis <email>
Tampa, Fl USA 01/15/2009
Iran
Rick,
You hit a home run with your special on Iran! Whatever I thought I knew about Iran and the Iranian people was completely turned upside down. Thank you for the education and enlightenment
Swede
Phelps, WI USA 01/15/2009
Iran
Rick,
You hit a home run with your special on Iran! Whatever I thought I knew about Iran and the Iranian people was completely turned upside down. Thank you for the education and enlightenment
Swede
Phelps, WI USA 01/15/2009
how can we get this on main stream TV?
Rick-- Thank you so much for doing the piece on Iran. I just finished watching it and I feel so much more knowledgeable about Iran. Your ability in the piece to show the real people is so, so important. I wish more people could see because as you said the flip side to fear is understanding.
What would it take to get this on mainstream TV?
It's critical that more Americans learn about Iran and other countires and see and learn about the real people that live in these places. Without that ground level perspective, people are ignorant and fearful and prejudice.
Thank you again for your important work.
Dara <email>
Chicago, IL USA 01/15/2009
Beautiful. I wish you would do one on China.
Steve
Arlington, TX USA 01/15/2009
Thank you for the Iran travel program
This evening the Iran episode aired. It was simply the most incredible of your programs I've ever seen. Thank you, Rick, for taking the step, and for being open-minded and courteous and friendly on this important trip of yours. I'm an armchair traveler, but I work at a university with many foreign students, and I've wished for this kind of program that would illustrate for Americans in general what many of us know about our Iranian students already, that there is a warm beating heart in the nation of Iran.
M. Dwyer
Fort Worth, TX USA 01/15/2009
Iran
I was amazed here in Dallas how close our two nations could be after watching the PBS special. I hope with the new president to come that we can heal ourselves. I would love to visit Iran.
Kent <email>
Dallas, TX USA 01/15/2009
Great Program
Just watched your program on Iran. Want to say a big thanks. What a beautiful country rich in history and the arts, architecture. It is very nice surprise to find you in Iran. I applaud your pick of Iran. Truly one of a kind in your travel journeys as well as for me to watch.
IHM6
Evanston, IL USA 01/15/2009
Thanks, Rick
Your wonderful program on Iran brought tears to my eyes as I recalled the wonderful years my family and I enjoyed while living in Tehran in the late 1970's just before the revolution. It was a treat to revisit many of the places in Iran that we enjoyed during our years there as American expatriates. And it was almost shocking to see how far the Iranian people have come in modernizing their cities. Our course the real message from your program is that we are all citizens of the world who need to put political and religious differences aside if we ever hope to enjoy our fellow man living in peace. How can we ever achieve that peace if our leaders cannot find a way to dialog with one another in an atmosphere of trust and respect. That seems so very far away.
Steve Flechter <email>
Wheaton, IL USA 01/15/2009
Amazing show!
Rick,
That was a magnificent show. It was so inclusive and showed the truly caring and inquisitive nature of the Iranian people. Their history is so unique and beautiful, and to have seen it in such a glorious light as presented in your show was eye-opening! I have two Iranian friends, and now I will be able to wow them(at least a little bit) with my knowledge of their fascinating history. Hopefully there will be a dvd of this program available for purchase soon! Thank you!
Debbie
Chicago, IL USA 01/15/2009
Most of the news you hear on the media is very negative on Iran and Rick your program showed how wrong the media is about Iranian people. Kodos to you and your team.
USA 01/15/2009
Rick Steve's Iran
Rick, i just watched your show on Iran and as an Iranian i wish to thank you immensely on creating a positive and true picture of my country. There were several additional places that you didn't show but i hope that's going to be on your next show:).
Homayoun
Milwaukee, WI USA 01/15/2009
Thank you
Rick, job well done. We all enjoyed your show. Many thanks to you and PBS for airing this educational and great program about Iran.
Hadi Rahimi
Vernon Hills, IL USA 01/15/2009
Xerxes in Greece
Very charming program, but to say that Xerxes defeated the Greeks in 480 is like saying Napoleon defeated the Russians in 1812. Yes, Xerxes invaded Greece, and sacked and burnt Athens (destroying its temples in the process) but a few weeks later the Greeks destroyed his fleet and Xerxes fled Greece with his tail between his legs.
John Wright
Evanston, IL USA 01/15/2009
wow!
wow! great program!! i'm an american and just came back from iran last year with my wife who is iranian. we were in the same cities that you visited. it brought back great memories. i can't wait to go back again. thank you for going beyond europe and showing this country how beautiful the people and the country of iran truly are!! you nailed it!!
tim burke <email>
dallas, tx USA 01/15/2009
Iran show
Dear Rick Steves,
Thank you for your show on visiting Iran. It is a much more beautiful country than I ever expected.
I hope that your show has opened many eyes in America on the beauty of this country and I hope that American and Iranian people can become better friends.
As a world traveler, Iran is a place that I now hope to visit and appreciate - so that I can become a better world citizen.
Thank you very much for your show.
Robert B. Woischke <email>
Chicago, Illino USA 01/15/2009
Hello!! My whole family and I were very excited for a long time since we heard about this project to go to Iran, so that we could watch it...but we didn't know that the program aired 4 days ago, and now we don't know how to watch it. Will it air again? Will you post the video on your website?
Sadaf
Phoenix, AZ USA 01/15/2009
Artwork, - different cultures, similar subjects
Truly Worthwhile
This program was an excellent example of how different and how very similar all cultures can and are.
When the shot of the Komene Mosque was shown, does it not remind you of Cloisonne' or Champleve', both different cultures, but similar designs, some made with enamel, some made with glass this masque made with tile
When you showed the paintings of the Shah's victory over the Turks, did it not remind you of the Roman Empires paintings of their victories or even the Roman Catholic Church's painting of the glory of God over man. Different cultures, different materials, similar subjects, just subjective.
I will have to watch this particular show again as I found it thoughtful, beautifully edited and spiritual - thank you for the effort
Judith Martin <email>
Arlington Heights , IL USA 01/15/2009
Iranin people
Thank you for your insightful documentary on Iran. I must admit I had a some what negative view of the Iranian people from the exposure I had in 1976 with some that were here on a educational visa. In retrospect, I now believe that it was due to the tensions between our country's at that time being reflected in how we interacted with one another. I am curious if the Iranian people you showed on camera were truly interested in the relationships between our people , or , were they coached in their responses towards the camera, knowing that the film would definably be reviewed by someone in their government, and fearing reprisal. We as a nation should try to find a way to connect with Iran culturally. I hope you will return to Iran and and do another report focusing on the relationships between our country's and how they think we could become closer.
Ricky Donaldson
Forney, Texas USA 01/15/2009
Review of Rick Steves' Iran
I thought the show was a wonderful step towards developing diplomacy between our two nations. The Iranian people were warmer and friendly than what I expected. Helping us to understand their culture is the first step in us shedding our fears about their culture. Thank you Rick. Awesome show....as always
Peter Nogacz
Loves Park, IL USA 01/15/2009
Iran
I want to add my thanks and congratulations to you on an exceptional program that was truly educating and enlightening.
Sarah
Chicago, IL USA 01/15/2009
Iran
Excellent! This needs to air on commercial television many times so Americans can gain insight, appreciation and understanding.
Suzanne Gentling
Glen Rose, TX USA 01/15/2009
Thank You
Hi Mr. Rick
I just wanted to thank you for making this program and showing the other side of the coin. Most of the news about Iran is very negative. I am grateful that you showed the Iranian people and the country in such a good way without showing the extrems if you understand what I mean. I think Iran and USA have much incommen and I hope these two great countries could become firends again.
Thank you again and good luck
Al <email>
Plano, TX USA 01/15/2009
Iranin people
Thank you for your insightful documentary on Iran. I must admit I had a some what negative view of the Iranian people from the exposure I had in 1976 with some that were here on a educational visa. In retrospect, I now believe that it was due to the tensions between our country's at that time being reflected in how we interacted with one another. I am curious if the Iranian people you showed on camera were truly interested in the relationships between our people , or , were they coached in their responses towards the camera, knowing that the film would definably be reviewed by someone in their government, and fearing reprisal. We as a nation should try to find a way to connect with Iran culturally. I hope you will return to Iran and and do another report focusing on the relationships between our country's and how they think we could become closer.
Ricky D
Forney, Texas USA 01/15/2009
Iran
I am an African American woman who attended Louisiana Tech Univ. and had an Iranian friend in college who was one of the sweetest, nicest people I've ever met;this show brought back memories of her. I was very impressed with this particular show because it was very enlightening, the people very pleasant, and the country very beautiful. Thank you for a very educational, unbiased view;I wish I could visit this country some day.
Paula <email>
Chicago, IL USA 01/15/2009
Rick steves's Iran
What a fascinating coverage on Iran. I was specially moved by those amazing architecture in Isfahan. Thank You Steve for sharing this brilliant work. Hope this changes the over all impression about Iran and its people among Americans.
Sayeed Tariq
Irving Texas
Sayeed Tariq <email>
Irving, TX USA 01/15/2009
Thank you
Thank you Mr. Rick Steves for a wonderful program on Iran. I am from Isfahan and I really appreciated you showing all the beautiful places of Isfahan. Thank you for showing everyone the real Iran! Merci. Good job!!! =)
Shahla
Houston, TX USA 01/15/2009
Iran!
Thank You so much Steve! That was a beautiful and touching program about Iran. My family and I loved it and thank you so much for your courage.
Nava Sakaki
Houston, Tx USA 01/15/2009
Wonderful, Informative!
Thank you for giving such an informative presentation on Iran. I never knew it had such a rich culture and history until now.
And I would also like to thank you for breaking down barriers and misconceptions. It is our responsibility to be informed and your show gave us the opportunity to do so.
I hope that this will begin a fruitful dialogue between the US and Iran.
Sarah Jeffrey <email>
Oak Park, Il USA 01/15/2009
Realy Great Job
Thank you for being such a brave reporter and took the action to show us how the real world is, not the way politicians wants us to believe. I wish iranianas would have the same professionals to show them our side, which I think is poisoined with their government,,,,the world needs more people like you in broadcasting business recently
Daniel <email>
Toronto, On Canada 01/15/2009
.
It's good to see the real Iran on TV instead of angry demonstrators.I learned a lot.
Great program.
Thanks
mike
Philadelphia, PA USA 01/15/2009
Great job Rick! Your show was objective and the sceneries you picked were beautiful and brought a tear to my eye.
Arash
Texas USA 01/15/2009
All things in general
Mr. Steves,
Being an Iranian teen in America ... its very simple to imagine the political debates that we have about the political decisions and historic events. I appreciated the eye-to-eye perspective that you kept with Iran. Maybe this show will minimize the ignorance that my aquaintances have toward my country .
With all due respect.
Sahar
Houston, TX USA 01/15/2009
Iran
I loved your program featuring Iran. From all I've heard,seen, and read in our mainstream media about Iran, I expected something entirely different. I now want to visit Iran, meet its beautiful people, and see its extraordinary cities and countryside for myself.
Sarah Haefner
Rolling Prairie, IN USA 01/15/2009
what a magnificent show
Dearest Rick, Thank you for your insightful documentary on Iran.
This program was an excellent example of how different and how very similar all cultures are.
your show was magnificent .unfurtunetly rigt now Most of the news you hear on the media are very negative
thanks for the wonderful view of a country not well understood by many Americans about Iran.
i wish we had more reporter like you. good luck.
sincerly
ima moradi
IMA MORADI <email>
HOUSTON , TX USA 01/15/2009
There's no better version!
This should be required viewing for all Americans who think we are all angry demonstrators with a mob mentality. Every person I've met who knows Persians tells me that we have some of the warmest and friendliest people.
Good to see Houston representing here tonight too!
Arash
Houston, TX USA 01/15/2009
Thank you for taking the time to go to Iran
Thank you! Your program was amazing. I am an Iranian - American but it is sometimes difficult to tell people that I am originally from Iran. I hope I see the day where Iran & America come together. I would like to thank you for showing who the Iranian people really are.
Sara
Philadelphia, PA USA 01/15/2009
Iran
I lived in Tehran, Iran from 1964-1970, from 6 years old to 10 years old, what I call my formative years. It has influenced my life since. I want to thank you for your show. It has shown that Iran is what I remember: an incredibly wonderful country, rich with culture, steeped in a history that is beyond what most American's know, and with a peace loving people. My heart swelled with memories watching your show, I only wish that sometime I will be able to revisit and realize a lifelong dream of seeing Persepolis.
Renee <email>
Pasadena, Texas USA 01/15/2009
Gratitiude
Thank you SO much for this program, thank you for showing the real Iran, I cannot thank you enough. I wish you could say more about the pressures of the government on people and the damage all these MULAS have caused to our country and harm that they have done to our people but I know that you did say allot more than is usually said. That was allot of work, thank you from all my Iranian family and friends.And just like the gentleman said you truly have a kind heart. :) and I hope this program is broad-casted several times so that every one can see it.
Mahsa <email>
IL USA 01/15/2009
Rick's visit to Iran
Rick, what a wonderful piece on Iran! Much more beautiful than we ever imagined. Hope that we will be able to safely visit there someday as well. I did appreciate you getting some of the citizens perspectives on several topics of importance. A very timely piece! This show should be seen by all Americans.
RL Schaefer
Cleveland, OH USA 01/15/2009
This program was perfect with just one problem, that SHAH was not a bad person and did many good things for our country, I wish you had more information about before the revolution.
USA 01/15/2009
Peace Ambassador
Rick, I am impressed! You are now an ambassador for Peace! I had many Iranian friends as a young adult in Houston, and befriended them while studying and living in Europe. I am so pleased with your video and your encouragement for Americans to understand these wonderful people. If only our current President would understand! Great job!
Terry Bitzel <email>
Woodland Park, CO USA 01/15/2009
Iran show
What a great show...it brought back many memories of my 2 trips there in the late 1990's. Your travel route was almost the same as ours, except we traveled on to Mashshad on the Afghanistan border. Thank you so much for sharing the beautiful people of Persia to America...they are a wonderful people and have great attributes...
David LeCompte <email>
Woodland Park, CO USA 01/15/2009
Well done!!!
Great job Rick,
you have shown the world, but especially America how Iran really is, with it's friendly people, open and welcoming attitude, beautiful landscape and great heritage.
I was born in Germany, but still have family in Iran (Teheran) and I really enjoyed your movie tonight, cause at the moment I am staying in the US.
Hopefully, the bad relationship between Iran and the US will become better by broadcasting your show, so that the people in the US understand and get an insight about the mentality of the Persians.
Well done man and keep going on,
Cina
Cina
Chicago, Illinois USA 01/15/2009
Persian inner beauty
Wonderful show about Iranian culture. I am an American who has many Persian friends and already knew what beautiful hearts our Persian friends have. I hope many Americans tuned in to your show and caught a glimpse of this beauty. Much thanks for the mention of the Baha'i Faith as well.
David Brown <email>
Northglenn, CO USA 01/15/2009
Thank you!
Dear Rick and team,
Great job, as usual!! I have watched your European shows and enjoyed them.
As an Iranian, I have to say this was the most objective show about Iran. You looked at the past and present, city and village, modern and old-fashioned Iran, all together; You pointed out the common points between people of Iran and the US. It was about time for an objective eye to look inside this ancient land and make it less of a mystery.
Also, your choice of scenery and music was amazing and brouth smile on our lips and tears to our eyes, at the same time.
So much effort was behind this one hour show!
Deeply appreciate your objectiveness, the effort behind the show and the fairness.
Fariba
Houston, TX USA 01/15/2009
Iran
Rick
This is an excellent objective window to Iran - its people, culture, art and natural beauty. Thank you for doing this. When will it be available for purchase? I would love to add this to my library.
Cindy
Grand Junction, CO USA 01/15/2009
right saying, right thinking, right doing
ok! i am shocked!!!!
was i dreaming?, or i was perfectly awake and watching tv?
the show was one of the magnificent point of vieew about iran, iran's past, present, people and culture.
as an iranian who is living in usa for the past 10 years and very confuse about how to deal with the people who still when they hear you are iranianthe very first thig in their mind is big deserts and lots of camels, you made me proud .
i hope there would be people like you, and i wish there was more interview with the pepople specially young ones.
thank you from the bottom of my heart
sain <email>
denver, co USA 01/15/2009
Iran
You did a great job. The best traveler's filming of Iran I've seen. Thank you for telling the truth about their religion and politics and helping Americans understand that the conflict is between our governments and not the people.
Sara
Houston, TX USA 01/15/2009
I want to thank you for showing the true Iran. I had tears in my eyes and am extremely greatful. What a wonderful narration! Your scenery choices were amazing. What an awsome program.
Rahele
El Dorado Hills, Ca USA 01/15/2009
right saying, right thinking, right doing
you are my friend steve, i mean it.
i didn't know there are people like you in brodcasting .
thanks a lot
sain <email>
denver, co USA 01/15/2009
Rick Steves in Persia
Mr. Steves:
What a fantastic show! You have proven my point that I've shared with other folks; it's not the people it's the government. I've traveled the Middle East and always got a warm reception regardless of the world's climate and our less than stellar reputation as Americans these days. Your insight and ability to bring out the best of the Persian people was well received. Good Job!!!
John <email>
Sacramento, CA USA 01/15/2009
Great Show on Iran
Great show Rick and team, thank you for bringing this to public broadcasting. My son's good friend is Persian and he has gone to "Persian New Year" at her house for the past two years with very funny stories from the event. I am excited to be invited this year and feel that I have a hint into to their cultural heritage and now some questions to ask.
Val
Salem, OR USA 01/15/2009
Beautiful country
Thank you for a great show. I traveled to Iran in 2005 with my persian exwife and I had the same experience. I miss the persian culture and I am glad to see that you had a simular experience. The people are great and kind....and dont deserve the stigma that we americans place apon them.
Casey ( caveh) duggan
USA 01/15/2009
Iranian episode
After reading and seeing so many commentaries on this episode. It really brings the importance of this episode into context. It was a beautiful piece. It shows the gap between people and culture exists only in the media and its agenda. The peolpe are about family and the religion is about love, just as ours. Thank you Rick for being brave enough to show the other side of a story that no american truly understands.
Justin
Portland, OR USA 01/15/2009
The seeds of hope
While it is true that one must follow a belief in Shi'ite Islam to rise in Iranian government, our country is not much better, as anyone who is not Christian has little hope of advancing to a position of power. Iran has always been our greatest potential ally in the middle east, and it is because of our own greed and selfish actions that they have become distant and combatant. I think in one hour this show has erased 8 years of lies and distortions by our own hateful and ignorant government. Salam.
Kel McCarty <email>
Portland, OR USA 01/15/2009
Rick's film
I thought the film was great. We need to see more inspiring film like his experience in Iran. Great job.
Please make sure you also watch the most amazing Iranian documentary ever been filmed in the history of Iran. It is a must see film . Check it out www.essenceofiran.com Bam 6.6
Brenda-Parast <email>
laguan hills, ca USA 01/15/2009
Iran
Dear Rick and company,
Thank you so much for bringing us to this fascinating land with its' beautiful people. Not only do I now hunger for more I even learned a new word from you tonight-cacophony! I especially appreciated your honesty and openess. And, when the young women was reciting poetry I was reading the English subtitles at first, but then, closed my eyes and just listened to the beauty of the song. It transcended mere translation. Thank you again for taking us there where the heart lies.
Debbie
Vallejo, Ca USA 01/15/2009
Wonderful Iranian People
Thank you for doing a great job in showing the Iranian people to be the kind, hospitable, and beautiful people that they are! I was born in Iran to American parents and lived there till I was 10. I learned to love the Iranian people and always will...may God keep them safe!
Bob <email>
Ione, OR USA 01/15/2009
Rick's film
very nice film, it is amazing how the western media shows Iranians. Go there and see it for your self, do not listen to the media . I was reading the comment about Bam 6.6 documentary , this film was also an eye opening to me and my whole American friends. Specially this film is about a young Jewish American traveling to Iran, with her fiance, I just could not believe my eyes,my jewish friends were so surprised by Bam 6.6 film. I wonder why we do not see these films on big screen, people need to wake up. We are not getting the truth about this culture at all.Youn tell me what you think of this film , is it a joke or the truth.
Daniel
Houston, Tx USA 01/15/2009
Iran (Persian Culture)
Rick, Excellent Program!
Your trip to Iran demonstrates the value of travel and the importance of meeting people face to face. I only wish politicians understood this value, it would defintely help respect the differences among our nations. As a second generation american I say Thank you! Regretfully I have never been to Iran, I only hope to someday make that travel. Seeing the architecture, music and food in high definition made me hungry. I'd be inerested in any artifacts you brought back, particularly persian rugs! When will a DVD be available for purchase.
Ken
Washougal, WA USA 01/15/2009
IRAN Episode
Rick, With sincere gratitude I write to you regarding the spectacular episode of Iran! My father was born in Iran and I am proud of the people in Iran. Thank you for showing your integrity and great character in interviewing the people of Iran. The sights were lovely, too!
Esther
Turlock, CA USA 01/15/2009
Iran
Nice show! You have accomplished what I tried to do in the late 70's when my film was confiscated. Unfortunatley or fortunately, yours was a bit more of a propaganda piece than mine was. There were some things you "fluffed" over to get the film done, which you mentioned. It is very difficult to show the beauty of Iran even with high definition. One really has to see it in person.
The "death to Israel" banner in the mosque really shows the problem, because, even though the people are extremely nice and handsome, they are also under strict rule (the people support the rule). As subjects they may be coerced into attempting to carry out the desires mentioned on the banner.
If the killing and hatred would end at the destruction of Israel one would think my children would be safe here in the U.S.A. But you know as well as I do that my children will be hunted and killed or enslaved no matter where they are because they don't believe Islam has the right to rule the world.
Of course if the Islamist propaganda machine keeps on moving forward who knows perhaps the U.S.A. will change it's pledge of allengence to "under the phrophet Mohammed".
in hiding
country , CA USA 01/15/2009
Iran
Thank you Rick and crew for this wonderful travel special. Nearly forty years ago I traveled overland from Turkey to India and back. I spent a couple of weeks in Iran visiting the same special places that you did. Thanks to you, I've just taken a great drive down Memory Lane!
Karen <email>
OR USA 01/15/2009
Thank you for Iran Program
Such nostalgia! I grew up in Iran...my father was a Presbyterian missionary doctor in Mashad and Hamadan for 15 years. I left Iran when I was 16 years old (the Shah was still in power) and I have always wanted to go back. I'm now a retired teacher and seeing your wonderful program heightens my desire to return. Hopefully with our new president relations between our two countries will improve.
Charlann Rice Boeschen <email>
Oregon City, OR USA 01/15/2009
Iran
My goodness,what a beautiful country and people !
Of course it bothers me that a man can tell a woman what to wear,but whatever.
peacequiet
Oregon USA 01/15/2009
Thanks Rick
Thank you so much for the great show. It was great to see so many scenes of my home country. Hopefully I can plan a visit there soon. You brought a great big smile to my face. Much thanks.
Yasmin
Los Angeles, CA USA 01/14/2009
Rick Steves Iran
Rick Steves has always been my favorite host of travel shows because he shows what matters which are the people of the area he visits and of course he does his research and that is evident. As an Iranian (I went there in March 2008 for three weeks), I was impressed at Rick's knowledge of Iran's history and I liked the fact that he did not just show the capital which everyone knows a lot about. I wish he had also gone to Shusha which is 5,000 years old and to Hamadan where there is a lot of history as well.
The only think I did not agree with was his comment about "Muslim" hospitality. Persians have always been very gracious and it has nothing to do with Islam. As children we are told that a guest is godsend and we should honor him or her with the best of everything we can offer.
I also wish Rick had travelled south to Khuzestan region were the war with Iraq caused so much devastation but he would have experienced warmth and hospitality which is unprecedented.
Thanks Rick and I sent the link to several hundred people on my list. Keep up the good work.
Azam
Azam
Pompano Beach, FL USA 01/14/2009
Iran(Persia)
Thank you for finally doing a segment on Iran. I would love to see you do another that covers travel to the other wonderfully beautiful cities that were missed this time around.
I am an American woman married to an Iranian who travels there almost every year and have done extensive travel throughout the country. I am also Muslim (and covering). Whilst my husband and I enjoyed most of the program, there were some serious problems with the history that was presented (propoganda version given. Please consult with someone who is really knowledgeable regarding 1953 (Iranian constitutional issue)to get the correct information. The Iranian government may indeed have made covering by women mandatory (which even as a covering Muslim woman I am in disagreement with), howver the Qur'an commands it in three different ayat (verses) as well as the Prophet Mohammad also having done so. Unfortunately, the Islamic version of covering also does not allow your hair to be shown at all which you will see the majority of Iranian women doing. Only your face and your hands should be showing. In the show, it is stated that 70% or more of the women would adopt looser dress if allowed to. As an experienced traveler to Iran, that sentiment would be confined to the largest, most cosmopolitan cities at best. You won't get that idea from travelling in the small villages. They aren't dressing any differently now than they were when the Shah was still in power. They're still covering.
In the web section on Islam, a correction would be appreciated. Allah, is not the 'Islamic' God. We Muslims worship the same God that Christians and Jews do as well.
In regards to Americans traveling to Iran, please, do so. Everyone else does. I have seen hundreds of Japanese, Chinese, Russians, Germans, British, Italians, French, etc. on my visits all enjoying themselves. Go ahead-take the plunge. It's safer than traveling to Mexico, or for that matter, driving around Los Angeles.
Bonnie, in Arcadia, who posted below, who was interested in Persian food-Please feel free to visit one of the many excellent Persian restaurants that are everywhere in the Los Angeles area. In fact, there is one near you-Heidar Baba on Colorado Blvd in Pasadena right across the street from Pasadena City College.
I, as well Rick Steve's was right to recommend that the Lonely Planet Guidebook is an excellent purchase for those wishing to study up on Iran. Make sure that you have one with you on the trip. I would suggest as well the Lonely Planet website as well so that you can find out what other traveller's to Iran are saying.
Now, the next time I am in Iran, I expect to see lot's of American tourists.
Helen
Los Angeles, CA USA 01/14/2009
Iran
Thank you Steve for opening the eyes of many Americans to the realitities of life in Iran and the people of Iran. Understanding the culture and people of Iran is a positive step toward engendering a more peaceful relationship between these two great nations. Interestingly, the headline in today's Philadelphia Inquirer notes that Hillary Clinton, testifying before a Senate committee, declared that, under the new Obama administration, America will pursue a much different course in our relations with Iran, a course that will focus on diplomacy as a way of developing a better relationship with that nation,
a relationship which displays a mutual respect.
Bill Cooney
Bill Cooney
Philadelphia, PA USA 01/14/2009
Beautiful Iran Beautiful Humanity
It would be wonderful if the United Nations hired people like you to highlight all of the countries of the world ... the result would finally bring peace on earth. The world is full of beautiful smiling faces, cultural differences, and desires to live wonderful lives. After viewing your wonderful presentation, it is very
easy to see how "statistics" lie. Your film should be mandatory viewing for every student in this country and the world. I look forward to your next film!
Nancy <email>
Oceanside, CA USA 01/14/2009
Iran
Rick, your my choice for Secretary of State. Wonderful show, your trip to Iran is the best adventure so far!
Mark Lehmann
Willow Grove, Pa USA 01/14/2009
Iran
While some of the narrative left an impression that you're a supporter of the 1979 revolution, overall I thoroughly enjoyed watching the program. It was beautifully shown. My compliments to your camera crew. It succeeded in making me that much more homesick.
Kaveh Nouraee
Los Angeles, CA USA 01/14/2009
Rick Steves - Iran
Great Job!
First of all, I was so surprised that Rick even went to Iran. I follow most of his trips in Europe and very much enjoy him. This was probably the best that I've seen on national TV on Iran and truly showing Iranian/Persian culture and people.
Rick, you're due for Iran Part 2 - Lots more to see and show the world!
Behnam Z
Wilmington, DE USA 01/14/2009
Iran
Thank you so much for going through a very different door and visiting the ancient sites of Iran. The show seemed insightful and will hopefully open another door of thought and dialogue for many Americans who need to know more about the region.
It was also interesting as always to see Rick Steves growing as a person through these personal experiences and continuing to do his part to broaden our horizons.
Diane
NJ USA 01/14/2009
Iranian Human Rights
Rick: Thank you for your excellent talk (and the film preview) at Seattle Center on 1/10.
I highly recommend the book "Iran Awakening" by Shirin Ebadi, a female Iranian human rights lawyer who won the Nobel Peace Prize for her struggles to obtain rights for women. She was educated before the revolution, and details the changes in daily life and her career since then.
Anne Thureson <email>
Renton, WA USA 01/14/2009
Iran
I have just viewed some of the best tv has to offer! Your show on Iran was excellent. I now have hope that some day we all can transend the hate of politics and religion and live in peace. Rick, you have made me a believer.
Michael N Johnson <email>
La Habra, ca USA 01/14/2009
Iran show feedback
Mr. Steves, I just read over your MSNBC column and viewed your PBS show on Iran.
It was uplifting, reassuring, frustrating, and yet entirely not-surprising. Like you said, people are people no matter where you go. I've traveled a fair bit myself, and once you connect with people on the street, in restaurants, in homes, etc, we all come to a common, decent, and friendly ground.
Every school child, heck, everyone in this country should view the Iran show, if only to un-demonize the people of that country. Our politicians should be strapped to chairs to watch that show over and over again. Our president, his staff, and all of our Washington politicians should walk among those people that you spoke to.
You just did important work. Good job. And thank you.
Eric
San Diego, CA USA 01/14/2009
travel and Iran
Rick, Your trip to Iran demonstrates the value of travel as you encourage it. Direct contact with the people from all over the world promotes a broadening of one's perspective which contributes to an appreciation and respect for differences among people. In bringing your experiences in Iran to people in the U.S. you have helped to make us better citizens, able to see beyond the narrow agenda of those who are attempting to mislead us for their self-serving purposes. Knowledge IS power. Thank you.
N. Torno
Haddonfield, NJ USA 01/14/2009
Excellent Program
Great production by Rick Steves and his crew. Rick, you trully portrayed today's Iran,its people, its nature and its culture. I am an Iranian-American who has been living in this great country for a long time. I visit Iran almost on yearly basis for short visits. I often encounter Europeans who visit Iran, and they love it (at least majority of them !)Your program, hopefully, will clear up some misconceptions about travelling to Iran. I understand some of the problems some people might have while travelling to Iran, but the hospitality and open-mindedness of the Iranain (Persian)culture and its people would leave an unforgiving memory of Iran.
Great job again, I hope your program reaches thousands viewers.
All the best.
Amir
Upper Saddle River, NJ USA 01/14/2009
The
Dear Rick-- Your program on Iran was the GREATEST!!! it was far more than a travel episode! It should be a MUST for all our self styled politicos in and around our new administration!!!
A. W. Baker <email>
San Gabriel, Calif. USA 01/14/2009
Iran TV Show...
Hi Rick!!!
I am scheduled to watch your Iran special tonight in NJN... Previewed the movie clip!!! Looks Great!!! Can't wait to see it!!! Was Great meeting you Fall 07 in Westfield, Jersey... Best Wishes!!!
Gary G. Schempp in Nj=USA
GaryGS1@yahoo.com
www.GaryGS1.com
Gary G. Schempp <email>
Cape May Court House, NJ USA 01/14/2009
Iran
I thought the tour of Iran was an excellent show. Rick showed us the country of Iran and its people. It was amazing how the people of Iran opened up to Rick and shared their culture. It is a great show if you can start by watching it without any prejudice as the people in Iran seemed to treat Rick without any prejudice as well.
CMM Hall <email>
Whittier, CA USA 01/14/2009
Dishonesty
Your intro was clearly dishonest - please compare USA limitation on "foreign" film crews to the limits imposed on you! In your "history" you happened to miss the invasion of US territory in 1979 - gosh did your school cover this? "successfully stormed" nice try I will, of course, never purchase one of your books and will discourage all I know from any economic contact with your firms
Ray Pirrone <email>
Marstons Mills, MA USA 01/14/2009
Online access
Is this program available to stream online? As more people trade broadcast television for web-based sources, it would be great for programs like this to be widely available online.
Brenda Walker <email>
Wellfleet, MA USA 01/14/2009
Iran Show on PBS
Hi Rick,
I just saw your show on Iran. It was wonderful to see. What a beautiful people in a beautiful country. I was quite moved by seeing how the country's history and modern present all combine so gorgeously. The cities and the countryside seemed to have a focus on family and everyday life that I sorely miss in my life in the U.S. No one seems to have time for that sort of thing here anymore. I also liked the human size scale of the cities. The architecture is so beautiful. It must be quite an experience to live in that sort of setting compared to the flat unadorned modern high rises we keep putting up in the west. I'm no fan of religious states, but I must say it your show brought tears to my eyes on several occasions. Great job.
Deborah
Providence, RI USA 01/14/2009
Great Show
Americans don't understand enough about lands outside our borders. Shows like Rick Steves' Iran are informative and refreshing (not all Americans like sitcoms and reality shows). Keep up the good work. Highly religious people scare me, but I wonder how many Americans know the history of the CIAs take over of Iran's goverment (as seen on the show) in the 50's.
Rusty
Lansing, MI USA 01/14/2009
Iran
Great job Rick, it is amazing show.
Ansari
Detroit, MI USA 01/14/2009
Iran
Rick,
As a long-time fan of your shows I was still surprised at how powerful and moving the 'Iran' show was. Maybe not within your power, but it would be a gift to the world if the DVD could be made available free to American schools - with the hope of beginning to open minds and spirits to the wider world.
Many thanks for your excellent contribution to that end. You get it!
TomH
Salem, MA USA 01/14/2009
Nice Job
Rick, nice Job. I lived in Iran as a child in the pre-revolution days and remember fondly the kindness of the people. We took a camping trip thru the mountains north of Tehran. What an amazing country. Keep reaching out, people not gov't make the biggest difference.
Bob Hetz <email>
Syracuse, NY USA 01/14/2009
Iran
A wonderful and education program! I think I was under the impression thatht they were Arabs. The pictures of the ruins of the capital of Persia was as if I were there.
Ada Hubbard <email>
La Harpe, IL USA 01/14/2009
Iran
Loved the show and was overwhelmed by the beauty, culture and history of Iran. Most of all, I enjoyed learning of the gracious and elegant people who live there. Hope to see and understand more about this fasinating country and people.
Jeri
Oceanside, CA USA 01/14/2009
Iran is not so bad.
Just finished watching your travels in Iran. Great show. The only time I see Iranians they are burning American Flags or burning figures of George Bush. I thought they were very violent and agressive people. Your show showed me that they are nice people and not all of them hate Americans. I was suprised that an American could travel freely in Iran.
George Briggs <email>
Watertown, NY USA 01/14/2009
I was really impressed by your aired visit to Iran! I was channel surfing tonight, when i saw this show on t.v., I saw the title "Iran" and some how felt compelled to watch. After all the only knowledge i had was the short violent clips on the news! I was oblivious! I was blown away by the Iranian people and they're views, beliefs and morals! After watching your show I feel a little closer with my nieghbors next door, who happen to be Iranian. I guess i was just ignorant!
Rick I'm glad you had the opportunity to travel to such a great Country, This show truly opened my eyes! Thank You!
Adam
Kingston, Ont. Canada 01/14/2009
Iran program
I was so overjoyed watching this show on PBS that tears fell very often. Our similarities are greater than our differences. The incredible beauty there, the mosaic mosques, and love for poetry, writing, education, music, spirituality, preservation. family, the earth, and all,the violence in our lives today worries me - I so fear losing our combined histories to it. We must not let this happen.
I always found the Iranian students in the US wonderful people, and learned Farsi from them (they always knew English!).
Thank you, Rick, thank you very, very much. You must be our ambassador.
Ashley <email>
Dallas, TX USA 01/14/2009
IRAN IS BEAUTIFUL
Thanks Helen! Bonnie from Arcadia will visit Heidar Baba ASAP! Thanks for the tip. I drive by PCC everyday going to work. I can't wait to try it! THANKS TO RICK STEVES FOR BRINGING PEOPLE TOGETHER WITH YOUR ASTOUNDING SHOW ON IRAN. IT REALLY SHOULD BE SEEN BY EVERYONE.
BONNIE <email>
ARCADIA, CA USA 01/14/2009
A PS on
I agree with "Helen" here, having studied history, and known many Iranians. The segment is still wonderful, but I did notice something that needs explaining - 2 things, women I've been told are concerned with equity, more than "equality" which I think is wise - we are not men, and vice-versa but deserve the same pay for equal work, at home or in careers, etc.(and the US is now trying to pass a fair wages bill and that's not increasing the pathetic minimum wage in the US!). Additionally, in a mosque it was pointed out that women were segmented from the men, and without explaining it appeared they were less to God, to Allah (the way God is in Arabic - no different, same God), but women do not want to bend forward to pray, prostrate (lie face down to worship) in front of men, thus they are off to the side; however, women may sit in chairs, too - depending on their age, and health status, same for the men.
I think I'm correct in this, as I learned from friends over the years. It's a wondrous culture, as is ours. Sharing the incredible tapestry of other cultures is what unites us. It's not about religion, or race, it's cultural differences that seem to scare people, yet two people can live on the same street, same city, go to same schools, and churches but when you walk in their homes they are vastly different (colors, smells, music, etc). ;-)) Viva la difference!
Ashley
Dallas, TX USA 01/14/2009
Iran
I have enjoyed watching many of your travel programs but I think there was something special about this one. What incredible artistry and craftsmanship in Iran! I was touched by the friendliness of the people. I have never really had a desire to travel to the Middle East before but your program certainly wets the appetite, Well done!
Shari
Ottawa, Canada 01/14/2009
Thank You Mr. Rick Stevens,
The media in this country is filled with negative and biased propaganda about Iran. You are a respected journalist and a courageous American to visit Iran and report your findings in this show. Thank you for highlighting the culture and people of Iran. Judging the Iranian people based on the policies of their government is like judging Americans based on the policies of the Bush administration.
Sheila
San Diego, CA USA 01/14/2009
Amazing
Like much of the other world, I have always thought of Iran as a giant desert. After watching Rick Steves' episode in Iran, I was honestly mesmerized by the dazzling beauty that Iran possesses. Who would have imagined that Iran was just so lovely? One day I hope to travel there and see Iran for myself. It is too amazing of a place to not visit.
Elizabeth
Somewhere, NJ USA 01/14/2009
Amazing Television!
What a delightful and amazing, sobering view of an unknown culture to us. Rick thank you sooo much for that fine piece of television.
It makes me want to go there right now and trek your same footsteps. Outstanding piece of work! Thank you for your insight...
Jorge Meraz
San Diego, CA USA 01/14/2009
Iran
This was an excellent program that helps us understand people and cultures around the world. What an amazing place.
Ann
Holland, MI USA 01/14/2009
As an Iranian-American I want to thank you for this refreshing view of my country. It is hard to explain the beauties of a place which so many people are taught to despise and your show does it beautifully. I grew up there and never really saw any of the horrible things that are said to happen there.
Sahar
Houston, TX USA 01/13/2009
IRAN TV TOUR
Inspirational! This was an exemplary program, designed to break down barriers the right way -- people to people!
Marcia Goldstein <email>
Denver, CO USA 01/13/2009
Rick's view in Iran
As an Iranian-American, I really enjoyed watching Rick's trip to Iran and his comments. I even ordered the DVD since this is something that later on I can show my kids so they will learn the thruth about Iranian people not the government. Thanks Rick.
Kathy
Bethesda, MD USA 01/13/2009
Thank you Rick
Rick
My sincere appreciation on your program broadcasted on Public Television visited Iran on Sunday 11 Jan. I must admit your program was the best described Iranian couture without getting to the politics. I sure hope US A and Iran will have better relationship and we can travel freely to Iran and they can travel to USA. Your visit in Shiraz gave me, my wife and my Daughter the greatest joy almost as good as traveling with you. I have sent your web site to all friends and family to include some of my good American friends I know for so long. I hope you will plan another trip to Iran soon and Iranian/American folks like my daughter can travel with you in special tour. Please give my regards to the rest of your team members, all the pictures were fantastic.
Hamid, Potomac MD
Hamid <email>
potomac, MD USA 01/13/2009
A second documentary might be in order
Your best program thus far, hands down.
Great job, keep up the good work.
Perhaps a part 2 including other towns is in order?
Ben
Santa Monica, CA USA 01/13/2009
iran show
I just tuned into your show while flipping channels and couldn't stop watching...it made me cry it was sooo heartfelt and sincere...THANK YOU FOR BEING SO COURAGEOUS TO SHOW THAT WE ARE ALL "PEOPLE" NOT ENEMIES...warm regards, bette ober
bette ober <email>
port richey , fl USA 01/13/2009
Iran Documentary
As an Iranian-American, I appreciate your effort for a well done documentary, which displays the true Iran not the one that Fox and CNN channels present to U.S. public.
Thanks again and best of luck in your future endeavors.
Ali Yavari
Ali <email>
Denver, CO USA 01/13/2009
Thanks
Rick,
Thank you for your respectful and tender treatment of Iranian people and culture in your exquisitely filmed TV program and informative radio shows.
An Iranian American
Washington, DC USA 01/13/2009
I WAS MOVED TO TEARS
I watched every minute of your show. I found myself moved to tears by the Iranian people and how they like Americans. I've always been interested in the Iranian culture and this really told the real story. I like their saying, "visitors are gifts from God." I wish I knew an Iranian family to have the good meal with because that food looked yummy. I live in the Los Angeles area, but wouldn't know how to approach an Iranian family and invite myself over to dinner. Thanks for the show! It was wonderful.
Bonnie <email>
Arcadia, CA USA 01/13/2009
Exquisite Iran
Thank you so much for showing us how beautiful Iran and the country's people are. What an exquisite experience to watch.
Jurnsen
Miami, FL USA 01/13/2009
A Job Well-Done
Thanks so much. Your programs have long been my favorite means to armchair travel, but this trip was a special treat. While the bogie man of Russia has not entirely disappeared, Iran has been the country most likely to inspire knee-jerk hatred for most of my adult life. If we cannot break down the walls set up by their government we can break down the walls we have built. This program was an excellent way to begin that process.
Hugo Lane
Jackson Heights, NY USA 01/13/2009
Understanding brings peace.
I teach Advanced Placement Art History. Rick's show and the message he has to share is at the core of my teaching. I am blessed with a diverse population within my high school. Open minds and knowledge are the key to peace and I believe our global young people can deliver it.
Twila OConnell <email>
Frenchtown, NJ USA 01/13/2009
So Good to see Iran again !
I'm American and 30 some years ago lived for two years('74-'76) in Esfahan,traveled through out Iran and learned Farcie(sp). It was nice to see how much has changed and how much it hasn't nor needed to. The people are just people like anywhere.
Kevin <email>
Ft. Lauderdale, FL USA 01/13/2009
You have done us a great service!
Salaam Rick,
This was by far the best documentary on Iran, it's places and people that I have seen. I saw half of the world this summer - I was in Esfahan for 10 days and loved evry minute of it. While you nentioned that there are Christians, Jews and Zoroastrians in Iran. It would have been informative if you would've visitied the Armenian Church and Museum in Esfahan. Also, there is a significant Jewish community in Esfahan that would have made for an interesting visit.
I just wish to thank you and commend you for a job well done. You displayed a great deal of respect for the people and culture of Iran. You have succeeded in 'humanizing' the Iranian people. We need more of this type of informative programming. Unfortunately, we in the US are dangerously ignorant of this very important nation and it's people.
Khoda Hafez
abuali <email>
somerset, nj USA 01/13/2009
Iran
Thank you for the wonderful 'visit' to Iran. The smiling faces of friendly Iranians give me hope that one day there will be, once again, open communication between our countries.
And Isfahan is indeed a lovely place to honeymoon!
Joan Demler <email>
Philadelphia, PA USA 01/13/2009
Iran
Thank you for showing the warmth of the Persian people. Since the hostage crisis, over 30 years ago, the main stream media has depicted Iranians in a negative light, which is the complete opposite of anyone I have ever met from Iran. In fact, it is I who learned from their friendliness and compassion shown towards family and friends.
Johanna
Wilmington, DE USA 01/13/2009
Shias & Sunnis
Enjoyed the show. However, I wish Rick Steves had pressed the fellow he was talking to about the differences between the Shias and the Sunnis. While the fellow dismissed the differences as trivial Rick had mentioned that if you wished to get anywhere in the government or military you would need to be Shia.
Nancy
Montclair, NJ USA 01/13/2009
May perspectives
Having visited Iran in late September 2001 into October, what struck me most was that most Iranians have more freedoms than just about any Arab country, certainly more than in the Persian Gulf. Many Iranians like America; they like the general culture, the opportunity. Iranians, like many people around the world simply don't like the American government
Mark
Gorham, Maine USA 01/13/2009
I loved the program on Iran
Thank you for your show on Iran. I am an American woman married to a Persian and we travel back home at least once a year. I love it there and find the people to be so nice and loving. Your prespective was really well rounded and I had a smile on my face during the whole program. I wish it was longer and it made me "homesick."
I hope your program shows others that the people of Iran love American's and that it is the governments that have the issues, not the people.
Thank you again and I would love to see you do more on Iran if possible.
Julie <email>
RANCHO SANTA FE, CA USA 01/13/2009
Iran
Thank you for this wonderful program. It took me back to my childhood in Tehran and Esfahan! As an Iranian-American,I, too, am too afraid to visit where I came from today. Afraid to face certain realities, afraid to have shattered memories. Thank you for getting me closer to my origin! Awaiting a free Iran, and a better understanding between the U.S. and Iran, in the hopes of providing a better future for the many young and their shiny hopeful eyes, you showed on your program. Thank you again
Bahar
Los Angeles, CA USA 01/13/2009
Thank you
Rick;
Thank you very much for the beautiful piece you made about Iran. I enjoyed it so much. I hope more Americans would view the world(not only Iran) through different lenses than just the main-stream media. Thank you again for taking me back to my city Shiraz!!!Loved it!!!
Sheila
Thousand Oaks , CA USA 01/13/2009
A Step In The RIght Direction
There is no doubt that this show goes a long way in showing the average American that only in understanding another people and culture can we begin to turn the tide of emotions from fear to acceptance as we discover that we are more alike than we are different. Yes maybe it did not go far enough but give a guy a break. How many others are doing what is necessary to create harmony at a time when all we hear are fear tactics from our politicians. Having been to the middle east many times I applaud anything that moves us closer together and allows us the opportunity to contemplate our shared humanity with all its happiness and sorrows. Thank you Rick. After watching you trip through the easy places you are also getting more in touch with your soul and in so doing we are continually learning from you. Keep digging and letting your travels show us that we are all part of the human race and condition. Someone out there must be able to get it President Obama and others, email the White House, send it Oprah etc! There's a challenge!
Sharon <email>
Orange County, CA USA 01/13/2009
Iran Today
A very refreshing look at Iran without the political interference. The people interviewed and Rick seem to understand that the American and Iranian people have nothing against each other and desire the very best of friendships. As a born-again Christian, Iran seems to me more godly in their law and exercise than does the polluted and secular United States as a culture.
It is no surprise that the SAVAK was imposed on the Iranian people by external manipulation on behalf of the Shah. It was the proxy war from Iraq and the Saudi and Kuwaiti funding of Saddam Hussein to pay for it courtesy of Reagan/Bush and Donald Rumsfeld that never really made the American media dialogue of what had happened over there. Even now the American people do not understand that the current Bush/Iraq war was over those war reparations payments that were owed by Saddam Hussein in amounts approaching $375 billion awarded in international court declarations.
Iran has been subjected to extreme interference from western powers who simply cannot keep their hands to themselves. The Iranian people know their own history not written by a western media and political interest built on grievous omissions and foreign oil banking.
I hope the spirit of kindness and friendship between people shown in this Rick Steves piece prevails over the previous years of toxic historical frauds and recent Bushco hostility seeking to economically destabilize Iran.
SanDiegoView
San Diego, CA USA 01/13/2009
Thanks
Hi or salam I aprishat what did a show about IRAN,and so does my family you can tell me more about,when you visited IRAN.The email addres shown below just us the addres on your massenger if you have one,to contact me.
Arsalan Tarahomi <email>
San Diego, CA USA 01/13/2009
Im from Tijuana, Mexico and i was watched the documentary today i was find intersting, the how explain some best features of Iran.
I was in Iran in March and April of 2007, i liked to much Iran, specially the people who are very friendly and nice.
I was meet one American in Esfahan who look like you, at Imam Mosque.
I want go back to Iran again.
Victor <email>
Tijuana, Mexico 01/13/2009
IRAN: A fun place to visit
Salam:
I had just finished my dinner and skippping the boring ads on TV channels, when suddnely a familiar Image took my attention: the Imam(Shah) Square.You ducumenry cenrtainly have many new messgaes for your audience.I can emphesize that:
your documentary clearly showes that IRAN is a safe palce for anyone who respect the current governing laws and apreciate the Iranian Culture.
Steve:Iran has already missed you,come back soon to Iran with your loved one.
Ardy <email>
Los Angeles, CA USA 01/13/2009
very real Iran
Wonderful! Thanks a lot for the very real picture that you made from my country, IRAN. My husband and I are from Isfahan and really missing our family, city and country. This show relieved our pain very much.
Poone <email>
Los Angeles, CA USA 01/13/2009
Iran show
Thank you very much for the show on Iran. I am a persian-american woman married to an american guy. I left Iran 20 years ago as a child and have never returned. Your show brought back some childhood memories. Hope I too can visit Iran someday with my US passport but I doubt that can happen! I learned a lot about my country from your show and I am very grateful. Thanks a million!
Anita
Los Angeles, Ca USA 01/13/2009
Salaam to Iran
I want to thank you for the great show! I also want to thank you for emphasizing Iranian are not Arabs. I am hoping all Iranian would be able travel in the country, free to choose their leader and their destiny. I wished the Arabs never attack our country. Iran has rich culture and history. I hope Iran becomes independent from oil, so western countries would leave them alone!!!
shawn <email>
los angeles, ca USA 01/13/2009
Many Thanks
Rick, thank you for your realistic portray of Iran.
Your great explanations of various social and cultural nuances and, your masterful drawing of parallels between the Iranian and American cultures and societies, goes a long way toward developing the much needed understanding of this important country in America.
Robert Sohrab Showghi <email>
San Diego, Ca USA 01/13/2009
Sharing is Caring
Dear Mr. Steves:
You will get some negative comments for your good efforts. Please do not be discouraged. You did a wonderful thing.
The tone of your program was not condescending. You were just expressing your thoughts, feelings and being truthful in your way. The world has only seen one aspect of Iran since the Revolution. Too bad..
Yes there is a lot of bad policy, politics and abuse happening in Iran. Although Iran is not alone in this bad behavior. We are all connected and must realize that it is in all of our best interest that human beings do not suffer or cause suffering.
This was not the point of the presentation. The point was the people and a glimpse of the culture in Iran.
This and other efforts like this from both sides will bring us all together to start a real discussion and real relationship. I hope the relationship is one where we are all receptive to core values that are filled with "Love, Kindness, Consideration, Creativity and Compassion.
Courage!
Matthew
Chicago, Il USA 01/12/2009
Thank you
I wanted to thank you for opening everyone's eyes about what the REAL Iran is about. I am an Iranian-American. I am only 22 and grew up in the US but Iran will always be my home. I'm brought to tears when people speak of my country as if it is nothing. We have over 5,000 years of history and it is not recognized becuase of the diffrence the governments of both Iran and the US. I hope that everyone can watch this and see what Iran is truly about.
Samira <email>
Bethesda, MD USA 01/12/2009
Want DVD
I saw it last night and I loved it. But I do want to get the DVD to share with my 5 children, their spouses and 21 grandchildren. We have Iranian friends and I can understand their frustration in not being able to show the country and it's history.
ruth penner <email>
interlochen, mi usa 01/12/2009
Message for President Obama
I wish President Obama would have watched this program. I don't really think that would ever happen. I believe he made all those comments about change to get the votes and that's it.
Nima
Phoenix, az USA 01/12/2009
I love the guy giving the thumbs up. Haha!
USA 01/12/2009
Beautiful Images
Thank you for this surprising gift. I may never have the chance to see it with my own eyes. I hope there will be more to come. Maybe we will see more from other producers as well. Your message was all positive. We need it!
FL USA 01/12/2009
Congratulation
Great Job!!! I learned a tremendous amount about the history of mankind.
Leo <email>
Bradenton, , Fla. USA 01/12/2009
Let's All Head To A Cradle Of Civilization
Steve, you globetrotting schmoozemeister you. You've done it again! You've gone to the far corners of the Earth as a mere ambassador to sightseeing and tourism...not to ruffle any feathers or promote anything disruptive to the indigenous culture, but to have a good time. If there ever was such a high-level position as the head of the Department of Tourism, you're the man. This planet is a global village; we should all travel for the adventure and have a good time!
Jeni Kaybee
La Grande, OR USA 01/12/2009
Thank you for showing my country
Thank you for showing my country and in an honest way. You have a very sincere attitude. You explained all the details correctly. After seeing this show, I want to see your other shows.
Marzieh Nahidi
Glendale, CA USA 01/12/2009
Iran Travel Program
Thank you so much for the show on Iran and it’s beautiful people. I had become biased and afraid because of the news stories. Your presentation was very informative as well as entertaining. I learned so much that my feelings about Iran has completely changed because of the attitudes expressed by the Iranian people you filmed.
Airing the program just prior to the inauguration was a stroke of genius. I think many Americans will now reconsider how they feel about the people of Iran and that influence will be felt in the White House. As we all know the leader of a nation may not express the attitudes or the will of the people he or she leads. I think we will have a leader in Barack Obama who understands the importance of respect and diplomacy.
Thank you and of course PBS for producing such an important work.
Irish McAleer
Clearwater, FL USA 01/12/2009
I loved your Iran's trip
Hi Rick,
I have always liked your trips and TV programs. As an Iranian, archaeologist, trained in Europe and US, and living here, I have kept my ties with my country. I really was impressed to watch your TV program on Iran. Bravo. Great program, much needed. I congratulate you.
Ali Mousavi <email>
Los Angeles, CA USA 01/12/2009
Rick Steves' Iran
Wow! That was just wonderful. It is positive educational programs like your program on Iran that will help the whole world stop being afraid of one another and start appreciating the beauty of our different cultures.
Lesley Taufer <email>
Byers, CO USA 01/12/2009
Iran
Regarding your trip to Iran, Thank you very much, it has giving me a different prospective of the people of Iran.
I wish our perception of a nation was not dictated by political events but by its people.
Tank you again,
Fernando
Fernando Calderon <email>
Los Angeles, CA USA 01/12/2009
Iran... a land of beauty and thank you.
rick,
I cant say enough about the show i am persian myself and for you to go and show iran the way you did. i am so happy you get to open peoples eyes into something that they dont get to see everyday they get to see that we are not bad people and that we love the usa. and that we do open our homes to the americans. I want to say i hope that you go back again and you show more of this great land that most people know nothing about are so afraid of. one last thing thank you for making People understand we are. I hope that you also go to kish to.
Again thank you so much..
you realy made my day :)
neda <email>
denver, co USA 01/12/2009
Iran Television Episode
Rick and all,
Thanks so much for the episode on Iran! Change happens so often on the person-to-person level. We need reminders that people are just that, people.
Jim Thomas
Littleton, CO USA 01/12/2009
Iran
Kudos, kudos kudos!!! The best show I watched over all the many years I have been a fan of your program. My hats off to you and can only imagine the great good and wonderful service you have provided toward bringing peace to this hurting world of ours. Please do more of this pioneering programing, helping the real "people" around the world come together in understanding and compassion. It is a brave thing you have done here, knowing the risks involved, but what a priceless gift you have given to us all. I hold you in the highest esteem for just this one program alone, let alone all the other beautiful work you have done. This surpasses anything to date. Bravo Rick. You are a blessing to us all for this piece on Iran.
Rick Lemmer
Denver, CO USA 01/12/2009
Great introduction
Great introduction of Iran! Program pictured the Country's Up & Down fairly.I liked the last words: Stepping on a right direction to bring the two nations closer.Good job Rick!
Bahman Rad <email>
Lake forest, CA USA 01/12/2009
Iran Program
Dear Rick:
I have been a fan of yours for over fifteen years and have faithfully watched your programs and utilized your guide books. I have always admired your general approach to travel and to your message that we are ambassadors to the world when we travel.
The program on Iran was a departure from your specialization on Europe but your presentation was certainly opportune. I knew very little about Iran and the program provided a good balance between the history and various historical sites as well the more recent history that defines the country today.
As usual, your interaction with the people was demonstrative of the basic similarities and desire for genuine good will that we as individuals share. Like any culture that is foreign to our own there are differences but you show how we can understand, if not embrace those differences and relate to one another in a friendly personal way.
This is so important to convey to our leaders and to our citizens in this country. It seems that often times, people in government think that the rest of the world is oppressed and need the U.S. government's assistance to free them. This is certainly not the case. Hopefully, by people watching your program they will come to these same realizations and urge our government to pursue diplomacy and that they will also join forces with us and become individual ambassadors of good will.
Even though the core of your business will always be Europe, I encourage you to pursue similar educational endeavors in other countries especially those with whom most in the U.S. know so little about. I think your continued work will go a long way to achieving a more peaceful world. If you ever would like assistance from a fellow ambassador I would love to help. Thank you.
Alan D. Johnson <email>
Tampa, FL USA 01/12/2009
Thanks for being so compassionate
Dear Rick,
When I was flipping the channels and saw the word Iran on the program guide I could hardly wait to see it. My Husband and I watched it together and our hearts were filled with joy. We were mostly inspired by how you explored the culture so closely and managed to by-pass the superficial differences. In fact , as a persian ( Born and raised) , I loved seeing my country through the lens of your camera. Thanks for the wonderful program. Great Job and your Farsi is amazing.
Bahar
Broomfield, CO USA 01/12/2009
Iran Show
Wonderful show. Couldn't stop watching which is unusual for me. My perspectives have changed as I imagine many others have also, even in Iran. I have used your suggestions in France and have watched your shows for many years and as much as I have enjoyed them all this Iran introduction will ultimately be judged as much more than just a "travelog" Wouldn't it be nice if we didn't have politicians!
Clifford Biggs
Page , AZ USA 01/12/2009
Every American should watch this program
Dear Steve and Team,
As an Iranian who loves his country very much, I congratulate you in doing such a good job w/ this program. Despite some other comments, I don't think you were condescending at all. I can understand that anyone living outside of Iran could be quite isolated from the culture and the friendly people who make up that great country. Instead, what I took from this was your unbiased effort to document what you saw, and to show the hospitality and abundant love that Iranians have for one another, and their lighthearted willingness to extend that to even the foreigners from another land.
Having been away from Iran for more than 16 years, the sites and sounds of your film brought tears to my eyes. Some places that you showed are quite familiar to me, yet I have not seen some others myself. I hope to be able to make a trip back there soon!
Thank you for this wonderful production. I hope many Americans get to see it and experience what peaceful and fun-loving people Iranians truly are. Governments come and go, but the soul of a nation is what remains. I think this film is a step towards connecting other people with the soul of the great nation that is Iran.
Best wishes!
Radin
Broomfield, CO USA 01/12/2009
Thank you!
I'm so pleased to read the many satisfied comments here. As for viewers concerned about the condescending tone, as an avid traveler I respect your point about learning basic greetings prior to departure. However, let's keep in mind the intention of this program. Mr. Steves admitted early on that he knew very little about Iran. Instead of shrugging it off, he took the initiative to learn and understand that which was fearful and unknown to him. With regard to political issues, he covered them more than would normally be covered in a travel show. Excellent work! I wish this show would be adopted by more PBS stations in the country.
Noosha
Los Angeles, CA USA 01/12/2009
comment
Amazing, I have read of history of Persia but never knew of Modern Iran. Looking at the hair of women exposed a half inch or 3. The next wind will blow their veils right into the Persian Gulf. Zoroastrian is the foundation of Good and Evil, Quite the Western Theme alive today in Jerusalem's big 3!!! The crime comitted against current Imperialism is the creation of an Iranian Bourse. This Bourse has the economic potentail to shift or shock the globe. Economic downturn is a step back in order to retain dominace. Looking into thier faces I have to say they seem quite content. I am surprised this film was permitted under it's perspective. After all they are the enemy of the current administration.
Robert
Los Angeles, CA USA 01/12/2009
Beautiful
I can't remember ever having laughed and cried at a travel show. Iran is profoundly beautiful and Rick's approach of respectful, friendly openness brings forth the same from the Iranian's he meets.
Stephen <email>
South Pasadena, CA USA 01/12/2009
The Iran trip
I just finished viewing the "Iran" trip on WUSF from Tampa. I have only watched you maybe once before, but I noticed you left out a few things. Your manner of speaking is easy enough a fifth grader would understand, but you didn't say if they ever pulled their pants down they would be beaten and then hung from a crane in the street: as young as nine years old. Girls first. Kids would get that..
Mike
Clearwater, FL USA 01/12/2009
IRAN
Google Islamic punishment Iran and watch a good stoning. Or children being hung in the street.
DON'T MAKE IT YOUR NEXT STOP!!!
Mike <email>
Claearwater, Fl USA 01/12/2009
Iran
I loved your program in HD! fanatastic photography. I was there 34 years ago. Iran is a beautiful country w/beautiful & generous people & rich culture, but awful politicians (they take advantage of them). They are the least racist people that I have ever met. Iran confirms my belief in separation of state & religion! There are so much more to see. great job Rick!
Jon Goldust
pasadena, ca USA 01/12/2009
Iran Conversation
Rick,
Thank you for a very important presentation. I lived in Iran for 4 years before, during and after the revolution and believe that the true story of Iran has not been told for the past 30 years. I found your clip enlightening and hope that the whole of our country will remove it's prejudices - good, bad; favorable, unfavorable; and political - and view this show with an open mind and understnanding that we seem to have lost over the recent decades. Thank you from a citizen of the world who hopes knowledge will remove the barriers we have erected.
Art Eiff <email>
Bloomington, IL USA 01/11/2009
Iran
Thank you, thank you, thank you for producing this show. Iran is a beautiful country that we should know more about. Its people deserve to live without the threat of war and they even deserve to have nukes if they want. After all, we have them and so does Israel.
Margaret
New York, NY USA 01/11/2009
Can't wait to visit Iran for myself!
Thank you for presenting such a thoughtful and open-hearted view to the people and culture of modern Iran. I felt very inspired and now have another place to add to my list of places to see for myself! I have been a Rick Steves fan for many years, and feel this was one of his best shows yet! Thanks again.
SueAnn Johnson
New York, NY USA 01/11/2009
DVD for Iran show?
Thank you Rick for this wonderful show. I always wanted to know Iran and you provided a significant part of it for me in the show. Is this show on DVD for sale? Iran is a beautiful country long rich history. I definitely will visit it.
LP Fang
New York, NY USA 01/11/2009
Iran
Great Show about Iran . I lived in Iran for many years and enjoyed it . you did a great job showing a sample of how life is in Iran . The only thing your short program did not have the time to cover was the North part of Iran which is the most beautiful part of Iran and the fun private parties at home with booze ,music and beautiful women in mini skirts:)
John
New York, NY USA 01/11/2009
Program on Iran
A wonderful program - further proof that travel is educational. How wonderful it was to hear and see how much the Iranian people love Americans. If only our two governments would take heed!
Karen Pasquale <email>
Little Falls, NJ USA 01/11/2009
Thank you Rick for putting the effort to show the world, especially Americans what Iran is truly like. People of Iran and America have always been friends and as a Iranian, I hope one day the governments become friends again, like before.
Iran 01/11/2009
Iran
I lived in Iran before the revolution and have bemoaned the fact that so many people have an opinion about this wonderful country based on the bias of others. Thank you so much for showing the beauty and deep cultural value that Iran and the Iranian people give to the world.
Richard W <email>
Houston, TX USA 01/11/2009
Baha'is from Iran
And the Baha'i Community in Iran? Don't let your silence keep this prosecuted people in the shadows. Show how the sentiment of regular Iranians toward baha'is does not represent the sentiment of the authorities.
Rudy
Houston, tx USA 01/11/2009
Iran
I just saw Rick Steves Iran. You are brave Rick and I want to congratulate you. I hope a lot of Americans will see it and realize the importance of knowing about other cultures and respecting other cultures.
Grace Yeni-Komshian
Bethesda, MD USA 01/11/2009
Excellent program on Iran
Dear Rick,
I was captivated by your excellent special on Iran. You are really an ambassador of peace. I do hope the special is seen by all of America and will to lead to understanding of the people, our shared humanity, the wealth of history of the region and the events that led to today's tensions. I am glad you were so open about former US meddling there. Congratulations!
Patricia Soper <email>
West Babylon, NY USA 01/11/2009
Fantastic program on Iran!
I just watched Rick's program about his travels to Iran. Fantastic! As a fellow world traveler and someone who especially enjoys visiting sites of ancient civilizations, I am envious of his good fortune to be able to visit such a culturally rich and visually contrarian society. Persepolis is now at the top of my list to visit one day. Now if only we can "all just get along" (at least our governments!) so that people may travel freely and meet and greet so that the world and people of various nations have the chance to understand one another better!
Lee Shepard <email>
Goodyear, AZ USA 01/11/2009
It is sad what has become of Iran and Iranian people under the mafia regime of Iran. Did Rick Steves make a visit of the political prisoners in the prisons or did the regime's agents prohibit that? I don't know why Steves action reminds me of Larry King, the mullah appeaser and the useful idiot, when he interviewed Ahmadinejad on CNN recently! I also don't know how much money these appeasers get from Iranian regime and how much more are they willing to suck the blood of Iranian people.
Afshin <email>
USA 01/11/2009
Splendid program!
Splendid program! The visits to various locations and the interactions with people along the way were both fascinating. What a wonderfully hopeful program to air when there's so much anxiety associated with the region! Your timing couldn't be better. I hope as many Americans as possible see this--please show it again if it's possible!
Cyrus <email>
New York, NY USA 01/11/2009
Opening My Eyes
Thank you for giving us a glimpse of what the people of Iran are really like. I now have to rethink my feelings toward them. Long held beliefs and mistrust have been overturned. Never before has a travel documentary had a personal impact on my life. Thank you very much for opening my eyes.
Thomas
Phoenix, AZ USA 01/11/2009
Iran
Thank for taking us all along on this great adventure! It's always fun traveling with you. Iran has definately been added to my must see list.
I can hardly wait for Friday nights rebroadcast.
Margaret <email>
Cincinnati, OH USA 01/11/2009
You were patronizing
My husband is Persian and has told me a lot about Iran. I've seen many films and books, and I've met quite a few Iranians living in the US. I just saw your program and was shocked at how condescending you were to the people you met. You had the nerve in your commentary to say things like "I was surprised to see people sitting by the river at dusk, just like they do in Europe." Were you expecting Iranians to live like cavemen? You asked so many people how to say "hello" as a greeting. If I were planning to travel abroad, I would learn how to say "hello" before I got off the airplane. I'm shocked that PBS chose you to be the cultural ambassador to Iran. Your shallowness could not be more apparent.
Siri Stanley
NY, NY USA 01/11/2009
Thanks for your trip to Iran
Thank you for your program on Iran. What an intreguing country, We need more understanding perhaps there would be less blood shed. Wish I could travel there but at 86 will stick to Mexico and Guatamala. How different these countries are when one visits them, as is Iran.
Dale Fairbanks <email>
Sun Lakes , AZ USA 01/11/2009
Respect brings respect.
I used to teach English in Iran and was actually back there to visit some of my old students in May '08 -- too bad we didn't cross paths!
I would particularly have liked to show you the tomb of Arthur Upham Pope and his wife, who were both noted scholars, studying Persian art and culture in the 1st half of the 20th century. Their beautiful tomb is in a very prominent spot, in the park by the river in Esfahan. I was surprised the current government with its anti-American rhetoric allowed it to stay there, but it seems the message is simple: respect for Persia and its culture brings respect in turn.
Cathy Lester <email>
Grayling, MI USA 01/11/2009
Baha'is In Iran
I'm from Iran and am really happy to see that the attention of the American public is attracted to our rich ancient culture. Iran is the cradle of the Baha'i faith; but unfortunately the followers of this peaceful religion are under serious persecution in Iran.
Soheila
Chicago, Il USA 01/11/2009
Mixed Feelings
I have mixed emotions on this program. While I think it noble that Mr. Steves protrayed Persians the way that they REALLY are and not with a political bias (the general public in Iran are fascinated with the US and Americans in general), he was (as stated by another viewer) very condescending. In most of his other shows he seemed to have an understanding of the culture and people before visiting. In this one, not so much. Would he roam the streets of Tokyo asking people to say "hello"? It would have been nice if Mr. Steves had done his homework on the country and its people before going.
There are a number of Persians here in the U.S. (including myself) who would have been more than happy to consult/provide the appropriate background info for you.
Lynn H.
Lynn H. <email>
Cincinnati, OH USA 01/11/2009
Not in my hometown!!!
This program will not be airing in my hometown... or even my state. :(
Is there anyway i can view it after the fact? I'm very interested in this program,and it would be a shame to miss it.
J Tav <email>
overland park, ks USA 01/10/2009
Thanks!
THANK YOU for taking the time to reflect upon the REAL Iran. I have been twice totaling 9wks spent there. Everytime I go I am left more in love with Iran and its people. I can't wait to view your entire film.
Celeste
LaGrange, KY USA 01/10/2009
Bahais in Iran
I was just in your lecture and saw the documentary and as an Iranian I did enjoy most of it. I was a little sad when someone asked you about Bahais in iran and you were so brief about it which I do understand, but I don't appreciate the fact that you said "It is their country (Islamic gov), so if they want to practice their religion, they should go to anywhere else in the world.." Iranians are Muslims, jews, Chrstians, Zorastrians, Bahais and etc. As much as a Shia Muslim wants to live in Iran, a Bahai wants the same too because IT IS THEIR COUNTRY AS WELL!
Thanks,
Unknown
USA 01/10/2009
Thank you!
The more I meet people from around the world, whether through travel or by speaking with visitors in my hometown, the more I see that we are much more similar than we are different. Thank you Rick for showing what Iranian people are like!
Ashley
Seattle, WA USA 01/09/2009
People are good
As an American uncle that has a niece in Germany with an Iranian mother, thank you for sharing how wonderful Iranian people are. Every six months I visit with my niece and her mother. Iranian people care deeply for their families. I could not hope for a better mother for my niece. As I told my niece last month, the people of Iran and the States are good people, it’s the government that is bad.
Steve
Madison, WI USA 01/09/2009