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.
Ontology
Iran has one more thing: Ontology (the study of existence); On that humanists woulld like.
A science? No.
Consistent? Systematic? Academic? Logical? Epistemological? Methodological? Formal Language? Yes.
Saeed
Esfahan, Esfaha Iran 02/01/2012
Iran special
Bravo......535 US Congress-people should ALL be sat down to see this hour of video.....and meet a people....NOT an enemy....
ch Cole
south wellfleet, ma USA 01/19/2012
Iran
Mainstream media in the USA is so controlld and biased in favor of war and domination. The USA was fooled once by lies about Iraq and now we are being fooled again about Iran.Thank you Rick for showing us what Iranians are really like - peace loving humans just like we are.
Carole Krieter
Elizabethtown, Ky USA 01/10/2012
A w onderful presentation and explanation of this country rich in culture and history! Thank you!
Rm Schnelle
Louisville, KY USA 01/08/2012
Iran
Mr. Steves,
Your show about Iran was the best. Although I am from Jordan, I never had so clear a picture of Iran. I wish you could do more programs about middle eastern countries so the people of USA can have a real picture of that region. A job very well done. Please keep up the good work.
ali
louisville, ky USA 01/08/2012
Iran trip
Thanks Mr Steves for a program on Iran shown on the public station. I enjoyed your program on Iran and your other Europe program. It is about time to show to the American real Iran not the one common media showing with all bad news about Iran. I hope one day two governments will have good relation so two nations can visit more each other country.
Reza Zehdar
long beach, CALIFO USA 01/03/2012
Iran
Rick,
What a great country Iran is. Thanks for showing it to us. America should be trading with Iran, not fighting with Iran.
DRG
Miami, Fl USA 01/01/2012
Rick Steves Iran
Rick Steves Iran, was a breathe of fresh air. Too much political smog has be drifting between both countries. I am as interested in their lives as they are about America. Nice job you guys!
James
Glassboro, NJ USA 12/27/2011
Returning to Iran
I just viewed this movie for the first time. As an American I have been married to an Iranian woman for 5 years now and I have had several opportunities to visit Iran and I can not say enough how much I have enjoyed my time there. Although I have not had the chances to see other cities, other than Tehran, I do plan to go to the places mentioned in the movie. Thank you Mr. Steve's for making such an inspiring movie to show the "REAL" Iran and not the "News Media" Iran. I hope one day governments can make peace so the rest of the world can enjoy the beauty of Iran, it's loving people and rich culture that I have come to know and love. I look forward to my next trip to Persia.
Ken L.
Dallas, TX USA 12/11/2011
some mistakes.
Hello Dear Rick,
I am from Iran and I enjoyed watching your documentary movie about Iran.
There are some points that I found required to notice,
In the movie you said Zoroast was the first or one of the first Iranian kings which I need to say Zoroast was not a king and he was Iranian first prophet which had a holey book called Avesta.
Secondly need to say the Iranian king who started the first empire in Iran was not Darush I as you said in the movie, and the first king who established Iranian first empire was Cyrus The Great founder of first human rights which his human rights cylinder is in UN.
And some other points which are not so important to be noticed. In a nutshell, the movie was nice and I'm happy to see that people in U.S.A are interested in Iran and its culture.
With the hope of peace and a better relationship for the future.
Regards Siavash.
Siavash
Cyberjaya, KL Malaysia 12/07/2011
Iran
I've watched this video several times and every time I burst in to tears feeling the peaceful intention behind your words and comments. The funny irony on this is that in Iran people do see USA residents the way they see them on Opera show, friends and Seinfeld :) while the only resource US people can find information about Iran is the News about this explosion that Embargo another Nuclear threat and...
What you have done by shooting the real life in my Country is precious and priceless and each of previous comments just brought me the feeling that even though I'm far from my homeland, still I'm surrounded with open minded people who do respect people despite their nationality and make me feel like I am home. Thank you All.
Nathaniel
Los Angeles, CA USA 12/07/2011
Inspired me to go to Iran!
Rick, after I saw your Iran documentary I knew that is exactly where I wanted to go on vacation. I was finally able to spend 16 spectacular days this past September traveling around Iran. I was so touched by the hospitality, curiosity, and gratitude the Iranians showed me. Everywhere my tour group went, Iranians asked where we were from and if they could take pictures with us; forget the ancient ruins, young Iranians wanted to talk to us! I was quite surprised though that everyone had the same question: what do Americans think of our country? Speaking for myself, I didn't have a lot of support from friends and family when choosing to travel to Iran by myself, but I have never felt safer or more welcome traveling in a foreign country. Artisans gave me samples of their crafts, a painter let me try my hand at his work (I did horribly!), I was invited to tea, and was invited to dinner at people's homes.
From what I have learned, private life in Iran is very different from public life. Our tour guide used the phrase, "Private vice and public virtue," and he couldn't be more accurate. Everything in Iran is a tug-of-war[INVALID]- fashion-forward ladies vs. old-fashioned grandmothers, religious gov't vs. secular public, required conservatism vs. secret, yet flourishing, liberalism. I was so surprised by how open people were about discussing likes and dislikes of their country and mine; it was most certainly eye-opening. As I spent the 10th anniversary of 9/11 is the "Axis of Evil" I couldn't help but notice that it's American nickname couldn't be further from the truth. (Other big events while we were there: Ann Curry and the NBC crew stayed at our hotel in Tehran for the Ahmadinejad interview, and the two remaining UC Berkeley hikers were released from prison...but of course this was barely noteworthy in the state newspapers)
Because of my trip, I now have a very good friend in northern Iran, and I can't wait until I have the chance to go back and visit her. Here's to being an unofficial US ambassador to Iran!
Angela
Palo Alto, CA USA 11/30/2011
Iran
Why don't we ever see this Iran, A beautiful place with wonderful people and a amazing culture, I can't see going to war with these people
John Ayala
New York, NY USA 11/19/2011
Simply Awesome Iran
Thank you Rick for giving us the opportunity to see Iran thru your experience. Awesome country and it's people. I hope our government do not demonize them any longer
Ryan Ames
Dallas, TX USA 11/19/2011
I visited Iran for two weeks last September. Iran is truly a very fascinating place. Hospitality rate is so high, even people you meet on the street will randomly greet you and will invite you over for dinner. At first I found it so strange that people you don't even know will approach you and start a friendly conversation. Iranians are very warm, friendly and tourist-loving people. What I love about them is they are a family-centered society. They will invite you over their homes and for dinner and will not even consider you an alien. The situation is even amplified if you have a friend or local who can show you around. I have plans to go back.
Glenn
Manila, Philippines 10/16/2011
A different perspective
What a happy surprise, this episode made me want to visit this beautiful and spectacular land, once called Persia. I also appreciate the informed comments by fellow citizens and readers here.
J leofsky
Montgomery/woodmere, AL USA 09/25/2011
thank you for a great show -
I'm a US citizen and one of my best friends is from Iran. We've been close for 25 years and I always ask him about the country and the food and culture, etc. I have enjoyed the food and music for years, but I have NEVER seen a glimpse of that place until your show. Thank you so much for showing me this place at last! And thank you for the contribution you make to world peace by showing Americans other cultures.
Kris
Portland, OR USA 09/24/2011
Nicely Done, Rick
During my military career, I was stationed in Iran for two years up into the revolution. Much of my work was dealing with the terrorists who were even then targeting Americans in country. I had plenty of opportunity to see the dark side of Iranian society, but those who think that dark side characterizes all of Iranian society and culture display a remarkable degree of ignorance, some of it apparently willful. Steves spoke at a number of points about the repression, harsh measures, lack of civil liberties, and lack of democracy in contemporary Iran. He says nothing in praise of the current government or system of government. He did get some details incorrect and did underplay the repression of religious minorities in Iran. As someone who has continued to follow conditions in Iran, I think the latter is regrettable but neither intentional or fatal to the value of the program.
Steves did, however, show a very real side of Iran that most reportage neglects. That is the robust curiosity of its people about the rest of the world, a curiosity which quickly turns to friendly conversation with total strangers. Americans who have traveled in Iran in the past decade have been impressed, even amazed, by the friendliness they encounter. The beauty of the cities of Isfahan and Shiraz is also real – Isfahan in a spectacular way, Shiraz in a quieter way. Like any cities, they have a few bad parts and lots of mediocre parts, and Steves doesn't show those, but he doesn't do that anywhere. (This is a travel program, for crying out loud.) There is no question Iran is going through a rough period with the current gang in charge, but during its 2500+ years of history, it's been there before. The real Iran will emerge once again.
Otis Trace
Fairfax County, VA USA 09/11/2011
Iran
I plan to watch this episode the next time it runs but I just want to say that, like with all people around the world, most of them are decent, hard working, nice people. But, dang, the government. And traveling there as a western Christian woman? Yeah, I don't think so. To me, it's clear: if you're a man, have a good time but don't look remotely CIA-ish. If you're a woman, tough. If Ahmanutjob decides you're a spy, arrivederci baby.
Amigo deIsrael
Dallas, TX USA 08/20/2011
Iran
I just watched your visit to Iran and found it to be very informitive and intresting. It's so intresting to see how other people in other parts of the world live. I always wanted to visit a country like Iran but was always nervous about going with all the problems going on but am very much intrested in learning about there culture and religion and just there every day way of life. Again excelent broadcast today!
Danny Messina
Bloomfield, NJ USA 08/14/2011
Iran BBC Travel Show 8/14/11
Excellent show Rick. May we all understand each other, and live in peace.
Jeanne
Port Washington, NY USA 08/14/2011
Your show on Iran and all your shows
Mr. Steves,
I was humbled and amazed at your show on Iran...it could or should be required viewing for every thinking person of this world, maybe everywhere. The casual open palm presentation of those you interviewed and yourself was simply epic. I particularly enjoyed the views of Persephlis (I may have that spelling off?) , the ancient city of the last king of the Persian Empire...amazing!! I have only recently started watching your shows and realize this is a dated presentation however, late or not, it (as are all your shows I've seen) is an excellent presentation..! Thank You!
Patrick Chic
Costa Mesa, CA USA 08/07/2011
Awesome
Always I had problem how to explain summary of recent history and real face of Iran to my Aussie friends. Showing Rick's magnificent work to my friends changed their wrong media based imagination about Iran. I wish the best for Rick and would be appreciate if let me know how to find this DVD in Australia.
Nass
Sydney, NSW Australia 06/27/2011
Rick Steve's Iran documentary
Mr. Steves, Thank you for your effort to bring out the great ancient (Zoroastrian empire) and modern culture of Iran for the benefit of Americans. Hollywood movies like "300" do a great disservice in portraying ancient Persians as monsters, whereas they were really a sophisticated culture ruling the largest known empire of those times, with the oldest known montheistic religion founded by Iranian Prophet Zarathushtra (Greek: Zoroaster), and the first known Human Rights Charter [INVALID]d by Cyrus the Great who established the empire and who is mentioned in the Bible as Savior of the Jews (who he liberated from captivity when he defeated the Babylonians and pledged money to them for rebuilding their temple).
Even though Iranians were mostly forced or coerced to convert to Islam by the Arab invaders in the seventh century A.D., in their subconscious most of them carry progressive Zoroastrian values, and many who leave Iran express a desire to go back to the Zoroastrian religion, which is impossible in Iran due to penalty of execution for leaving Islam.
Maybe in future tours of Iran you might mention two other Zoroastrian Persian empires (Parthian and Sasanian) that came after the end of Greek rule, and who kept the Romans out of Asia. And, also how a minority of Zoroastrians survived holocausts and persecution from Muslim Arabs, Turks, Afghans and Mongols, with some of them migrating to India and prospering there, to keep the ancient Persian religion and culture alive.
Maneck Bhujwala
A Persian Zoroastrian from India, now living in the USA.
Maneck Bhujwala
Huntington Beach, CA USA 06/20/2011
Rick Steve's documentary on Iran
Rick Steves just like any other Westerner who first studies Iran got most his facts about the 1953 events wrong.
The CIA engineered coup failed and the coup leader was arrested by Mossadegh. 3 days later however, the clerics and their hoodlums overthrew Mossadegh.
The nationalist Prime Minister, Mossadegh, was also not elected, he was recommended by the parliament and approved by the Shah as per teh constitution then.
People in Iran today are not hung over about the 1953 coup. The Russians have done much worse against Iran.
Finally if you want to get to know the people of Iran, dont expect them to tell you what they think in the street and in front of a government guide!
Potkin Azarmehr
Iran 06/05/2011
Iran
Excellent show about Iran. I have been to iran twice, 96 and 98.Your shows the Iran that I saw and fell in love with. This should be required viewing for our politicians and schools.I often have to disspel the American myths of Iran. You did a fantastic job in showing the True Iran. I purchased the DVD, and plan to show it to my friends and family. Thanks, Robert
Robert Robinson
Montgomery, Al USA 05/31/2011
Thaaanks Rick
Dear Rick
I'm a university student in Esfahan. I really enjoyed when i saw your document. Thank you very much. I hope to see you again in Iran soon. I'm sure there has been many places in my country that you haven't seen.
we are looking forward to your next trip.
Best wishes
Nasim
Tehran, Iran 04/29/2011
What about the ASSYRIANS?
I just finished watching the documentary of Iran and have to share my disappointment in the lack of coverage from the minority cultures that have played a crucial and pivotal role in the development of the history of Iran, mainly the Assyrians. You failed you include the Assyrians in every aspect of your tour, particularly when you mentioned the different faces in Iran.
Andrew
San Jose, CA USA 03/19/2011
I am impressed.
I am very impressed Rick. Nice job.
Mike
Austin, TX USA 03/10/2011
Hi! It was really nice to see my country from your perspective. I believe that the sophisticated mixture of religion in Iranian people's daily life may not be so tangible for you. In fact, I think that you tried your best to present honestly what you saw in Iran, but there is still so many facts behind what you saw that could be discussed. One of the facts about Iranians is that besides having a religious society, Eastern people are more faithful to traditions in comparison to Westerns.
Narjes Allahrabbi
Singapore, USA 03/07/2011
Birds of a feather
Here is the most depressing aspect of this seemingly endless recital of praise for Mr. Steves: The degree to which people of little knowledge and less sense (apologies to you know who) band together. The vast majority of Americans know much better, yet the authors of this bilge just reinforce one another, being immune to facts.
VA USA 03/03/2011
Your visit to Iran
I happened to see the film of your visit to my country, Iran, on KCET on 3/3/11. First of all , I sincerely thank you for portraying my country in such a beautiful way.
I would like to call your attention to the dinner party by an Isfahani family on your birthday. I heard you relating Iranian hospitality to Isalam. I am a muslem myself but I would very much like to inform you that Iranian hospitality HAS NOTHING to do with Islam. Iranian hospitality goes back centuries to the timesthat there was no sign of a religion called Islam. I strongly wish that the bedwin Arabs would never brough Isalm to my beautiful Iran, then called Persia. I wish the civilized and gentle religion of Zoroastrianism was still our religion. Unfortunately Arabs brought it to my country during Sassanid Empire by the force of their swords, by killing then Persian men, women, children, raping, burning, and destroying of everything on their path. So, IRANIAN, as a whole are a hospiable people not Muslem Iranian. Thank you.
safvat sharifi
Woodland Hills, ca USA 03/03/2011
Iran
I just watched this episode and was so pleased to see it. I lived and worked in Iran before and during the Islamic Revolution. The people are the same....friendly and warm ...the same as they were when I lived there 1977-1979
Jone
Lakewood, CA USA 02/25/2011
Iran
I have just finished watching Rick Steves in Iran. My God! How enlightening and I should say, a requirement for every American Citizen, both young and old. If the Americans were to see this episode, they would never, ever consider going to war for Israel against this wonderful, ancient civilization. Please, America, stop listening to the lies of Israel about Iran and do not allow the American Media convince you that Iran is the Axis of Evil. It is not
Mike Boileau
Maple Ridge, BC Canada 02/11/2011
Thank You!
Someone else said it here but I think that it can't be overstated that you, Rick, are a shining example of why people, not just in Iran, but across the globe love America. I hope you really acknowledge this to yourself! I firmly believe that your job is by far more important than the president of the United States, or any political figure anywhere. I sincerely mean it. I just hope that you will really realize that and keep up the fantastic work you are doing. I think you should ask us for more support so that you can expand your work force and do more. Your work is so very vital for the world. Thank you so much. You are the man!
Mehdi
Los Angeles, CA USA 01/04/2011
Iran
Forty years ago my husband and I lived and worked in Meshhad Iran for 3 years. In October of 2010 we returned for a tour of Iran to see how the country had changed. We just watched your DVD tonight and I want to affirm the similarity between our trip and what was seen in the video. I cringe at the negative perception Americans have of the country and its people. I realize governments and politics are a different story but we need to learn about the people and their culture to understand the broader situation better.
Winifred Pinch
Omaha, NE USA 01/02/2011
Beyond belief
The naivete of what should be called "Rick's Hicks" is hard to believe. How can so many people be so silly? Obviously, the average Iranian is fine, as the average German was in 1932. Until mob rule set in, that is. If they limit themselves to stoning it won't be so bad, but there is that little nuclear problem. Or is that just Zionist racism?
Critic
NYC, NY USA 12/31/2010
good job rick
hi, i as a Iranian am realy shock to my very core that you did this job man,thank you for that, topnoch,fantastic, i know that you get that alot but i realy mean it. it made me go and visit iran after a long time.. i wish i was there to show you more interesting places.thanks a mill for doing that show abt iran. P.s for your next trip you might cosider MALAYSIA", i've been living in malaysia for almost 10 years and never had enough of it. you dont wanna miss that trust me...
sadegh
kuala lumpur, selong malaysia 12/13/2010
iran
your film on Iran should be required watching for our American Congress! maybe they will think twice before condemning this beautiful culture as a threat to western civilization.
cboucher
columbia missouri, USA 11/22/2010
Iran show
As a devoted fan of your show, IMHO this is the absolute best show you have ever done. The cinematography was awesome. I rank Iran as the number one country I want to visit. I am just not sure I could do it the way you did. Our two countries are at an impasse and I don't think we are ever going to feel the love for one another. Sad. Again, Rick, I commend you on a job well done. When I see a show like yours, I always feel very grounded in my beliefs.
Don Mead
St. Helena Island, SC USA 10/29/2010
Iran
My wife & I just came back from a 14 tour to Iran. It was absolutely an amazing trip! Our preconceptions were totally blown away. The people are delightful, wanting to talk and share, and very cosmopolitan in the cities. Rick's program is true to life and we experienced many of the things he showed. If you can, GO! It is a life changing trip. Thank you Rick for giving us the support it took to visit the place so demonized by our media!
Gary Backlund
Tahuya, WA USA 10/24/2010
Iran Program
I really enjoyed the episode on Iran, especially since my husband is Iranian. It was great to see what the country is actually like and how beautiful it is. This is probably my favorite show that Rick Steve's has done. However, I did find it insulting that the slideshow contained a comment about "the plane being full of Iranians, all with a metal knife." I am sure it was not meant in a bad way, as Rick seems sensitive to all cultures and seems like a kind man. It still does not come across well. Also, for someone so well travelled, it seems to me that it would be a basic to understand what common hand gestures can mean in other countries. Given the tensions between Iran and the US, I think that is especially important. Thank you.
KC
Walnut Creek, CA USA 10/21/2010
Iran
Rick, I commend you for your courage to travel to a country that has been a negative mystery for many in the states.
You are a shining example of why the Iranian people revered Americans before the revolution and do so now--as you discovered, the folks you met were more alike than different than those you see in your local town.
I am proud of what you shared and showed about Iran and its beautiful cities--Tehran, Isfahan and Shiraz, my beloved father's birth place.
Did you know that Persopolis illustrated the first Human Bill of Rights written by Cyrus II? The United Nations has a translation of the entire document in its language.
It is something to be proud of and something to be reminded of today living and loving the USA and loving what used to be Persia.
Thank you for shining the light on what was once a mighty empire.
Shirazi
Fremont, CA USA 10/20/2010
Thank you
I have just watched your program on Iran on and really enjoyed it. Thanks so much for not keeping sides and picturing a realistic view of people's everyday lives.It is rather hard to convince people here in the states that we are not in a war. It is hard to make them believe that we are just simple, kind and loving people who love travelers and welcome them to the privacy of their homes, their lives. Thank you and peace.
Bahar
san francisco, CA USA 10/20/2010
Iran Travel
I just finished watching the Iran Travel show. I had to get up and write what an excellent, eye opening show it was. Uniquely different! A rare look for Americans into a different culture. Mission accomplished!!!!
John Harmuth
Raleigh, NC USA 10/01/2010
Iran
Perhaps no 30 min. TV tour can properly cover a city, let alone a country so this special had a relaxed tempo from the start, but I enjoyed it the most of any program in about 2 years. I hope a Part II is coming, there are many more corners and life styles to explore in Iran. I most enjoyed the tackling of difficult/sensitive issues and would like more "person on the street" polling of religious issues. Thank you for portraying the people in such a loving way and their rick art in such detail.
joyce montenegro
thomasville, nc USA 10/01/2010
Iran
Bringing the culture of this nation to our learning channel was an experience as if I had travel along with Rick. Seeing the culture and the basic life style of this country was very interesting. Aside from government and political drama that the media brings to us here in America, I was impressed how the Iranian people are just as civilized. I learned alot about their culture through your visit there. Understanding their culture and the social classes of this country was very informative. Rick you were able to take us to the modest street peddlers to the very elite rich... I enjoyed looking at the tour. It felt as if I had traveled along with you only through your camera lenses. Keep bringing to us the peaceful lifestyle of other cultures. Thank you.
NANCY
MIAMI, FLORID USA 09/09/2010
Iran
I was flipping channels on my TV when I got interested in keep watching about Iran. Actually I have a sister that lives there 15 years ago and have 2 boys. She has adjusted really well to the culture and now that I saw the program it helped me get a vision on how live is for her over there. I've been wanting to visit for so long but I think it's time to make my wish come true. It's a beautiful country and people is very friendly.
Beatriz
Miami, FL USA 09/08/2010
The New York Times has had a series of articles about stoning in Iran -there is a woman currently under sentence to be stoned. This might be an antidote to the nonsense spread by Mr Duranty(look it up) -excuse me, by Mr. Steves.
USA 08/26/2010
So understanding....
I was totally surprised about watching the program, and would so much love to visit Iran! Everything there was so beautiful, both people and the country. I wish that we could all live in harmony...beautiful job Rick!
Tracy Volk
Rochester, Mn USA 08/25/2010
Rick Steves Iran
I just watched the show on PBS (ch. 8 in Phoenix, AZ). Overall it was a great documentary. But I was wondering why it was shown under "Rick Steves Europe". If I remember that right from my school time, Iran is in Asia. Or am I mistaken? Have the borders between Asia and Europe changed?
Sven Lenkewitz
Phoenix, AZ USA 08/24/2010
RE: Iran show
Well done, Rick! It was a fantastic show, and you did indeed give a human face to Iran, thereby increasing my understanding.
K Conner
Denver, CO USA 08/24/2010
RICK STEVES' IRAN
"Rick Steves' Iran is one of my favorite Rick Steves' programs. I wish every American would see it so they would realize the truth about Iran's wonderful people and their culture. Great job Rick and all the people who work on this show.
Troy DeVoss
Aberdeen, SD USA 08/24/2010
Great show
Thank you for this great program! Some people might not like hearing an Iranian perspective on the role of the U.S. government there, but I'm glad you included it. We're not getting that view elsewhere and it's an important part of understanding the country.
S. Arif Khalid
Cincinnati, OH USA 08/23/2010
Just watched this again. I have fond memories when I was young. As Canadians my father as an engineer worked for Reynold's and we moved there for 2.5 years. Very nice people... thanks for the show. It's horrible what the media and politico's are doing to rattle swords. All about the business of oil!
Mike
Quebec, QC CANADA 08/23/2010
kudos for the show on Iran
I just finished watching the program on Iran and want to say thanks for showing an insightful journey into the heart of Iran and its people. As many people who travel find out the person on the street is likely to be as genuine, interested in us as we are them, and delightful as opposed to how we think of them via the news media's portraits and government's propaganda. Bravo for a step toward international understanding and...world peace.
Sofia
Tryon, NC USA 08/16/2010
Iran
Thank you, Rick Steves - education is power and small steps are important; thank you for making those 'steps' in your visit to Iran and to PBS (of course) airing of your show. I think long term change will only come when all 'earthlings' begin to understand other's cultures......(and similarities). Your visit showed us both.
Joan
Atlanta, GA USA 08/13/2010
Iran
I just watched this program on PBS (Channel 52 -NJN) and it was great! Thank you for giving us the idea that we can go to Iran and meet the people and see sights. We hope to visit there some day.
jim downey
Bordentown, NJ USA 08/04/2010
Great Series
It was great Rick, I recommended to everyone I knew. As a Jewish family who left Iran in the 1960s I've never been there and only heard about the country. You show how people and the youths are just like us living here in the U.S.
Leiben ahf dein kop (means great job done- One of the few Yiddish phrases I ever learnt)
Take care
Meyer Hertzel
Northridge, CA USA 07/30/2010
The standard of history teaching in this country is remarkable. Don't Mr. Steves and his followers realize what they are saying? And how it has all been said before? Of course, the Iranians are nice people (and the country interesting). The same could have been said for Germany in the '30s or the Soviet Union at the same time, or ... ad infinitum. Yet look what happened. It is government incited mob behavior which takes over. North Korea could be added here as well. Mr. Steves joins a long list of people who preach and then look very foolish later on.
New York City, NY USA 07/26/2010
Given the nature of the Iranian government, it is very astonishing that there aren't any negative comments here.
New York City, NY USA 07/17/2010
Great Job Rick!
This is Reza from Iran. Extremely well done. This was the most saying-the-truth documentary I've ever seen about today of Iran. However, Some of the numeral statistics you mentioned were wrong. For example, We had 300'000 martyrdoms at Iran-Iraq war, not 200'000. Anyway, the work was compact and useful. I enjoyed it and like to see more of you.
Reza
Tehran, Tehran Iran 06/25/2010
Iran
Beautiful job!. Rick, I like the formatting of your programs; in them you introduce us to the history, geography, food and idiocincracies of the different countries you have visited. The program about Iran was not an exemption; it was a beautiful portrait of a country, which for political reasons, we know so little about in the west. Thanks for your good work!
Luis
Chicago, IL USA 06/10/2010
iran
I watched this yesterday for the first time..Overall i am not a big fan of this series, but this show was just off the wall good! The very best show of yours I have ever seen. I work in the marble world, and was just spell bound by what I saw!
john jackson
kansas city , mo USA 06/06/2010
Iran show
I always appreciate your shows and have learned so much from them. However I was especially touched by the Iran program, having thought for the past 30 years that the Iranians hate we Americans. What they think about the government may be a very different matter, but their value of America and Americans was a real eye oopener. Thank you!
Robert Turpin
Kansas City, MO USA 06/05/2010
Iran
Thank you for your vision to show the humanity in all our cultures around the globe which is so similar at the most basic level.
Haleh Alberg
Chicago, IL USA 05/26/2010
people are same
Hi Rick,
Thanks for Iran version, introducing us regular Iranian people's life style and culture. I felt we are same as people, although up politicians may be conflicting. Mutual understanding is the best way to future world peace. Hope you continue good works.
yasuhiro nakayama
New Haven, CT USA 05/26/2010
Iran
Wow. I learned a lot. More then I'm used to. Especially in an hour "light tv show." I was in the dark about what life in Iran was like. Beautiful. Modern. and Beautiful. Rural. People and vistas I could relate to. And more - it would take me an hour to write it all. A good host and a moving image is worth a book's worth of words.
MadelineHere
St. Petersburg , Florid USA 05/25/2010
Iran
Absolutely fascinating and mesmerizing. Iran is beautiful. I especially loved the segment on Esfahan. I'm amazed that Rick Steves was able to do this. This presentation is done respectfully and in the spirit of a true ambassador of good will. Thanks Rick!
Kim
Long Beach, CA USA 05/25/2010
IRAN
Rick, I am so happy I saw your show on PBS this evening, it was so informative. I would love the opportunity to visit a country with such history and beauty and smiling faces.
Ginger Barnes
Long Branch, NJ USA 05/23/2010
People are people
"And the people under the sky were also very much the same - everywhere, all over the world . . . people ignorant of one another's existence, held apart by walls of hatred and lies, and yet almost exactly the same" - George Orwell
Hello Rick! I immensely enjoyed your video and lecture on Iran! Wow! I am Iranian myself, and so much of what you eloquently say is true! I cannot wait to share the film with my family and friends. Thank you for showing a different side of Iran than what the media portrays! I hope you will visit Iran again and continue to have wonderful adventures!
Sarah Mirfakhraee
Shreveport , LA USA 05/18/2010
Rick Steves Iran was beautiful!
I have meant to write before this and thank you for your program on Iran and her people. It was such a wonderful experience to see this beautiful country and have her people portrayed as they are in your documentary. I lived there for a time before the Revolution and have never forgotten the people I met there nor their country. Thank you. I hope you will air it again and shed light on this ancient country.
Mary Price
Cambridge, MA USA 04/30/2010
Mr. Steves. I have viewed this program twice on Channel 11 in Chicago. If it were up to me, this would win a Pulitzer. It would be easy for you to cash in with more stories of the best beer halls in Munich(which I would watch just in case you missed an important detail) yet you have produced something that is almost totally unique in the modern era. While not the voice of a preachy documentary, you have carefully revealed the common humanity that binds us all, without avoiding any of the hard issues. It is a masterpiece, and I hope you gain the appropriate recognition for it. The United States desparately needs work like this in order that our own civilization survives.
William Lape
Lake Bluff, IL USA 04/29/2010
Iran
Mr. Steves,
I saw your program on Iran and I really found it fascinating and informative. Thanks for opening my mind.
Kristin Obeck
Glen Allen, VA USA 04/16/2010
Rick Steves' Iran
Dear Mr. Steves, I would like to say that your segment on Iran was marvelous. I must say that the show provided ample learning material especially for someone who is extremly curious about that particular region. Your show was much more pleasurable than that of "Anthony Bourdain-No Reservations" but, I'm not here to make comparisons. I am simply giving props where they are due. I'm just amazed at the time an effort that you and your team put into your segment. Your work is truly captivating please keep up the great work sir. Also if ever given the opportunity to visit Iran there will not be ant hesitation on my part. And also for any fellow bloggers who are Iranian decendents I would love to vist and learn about your culture. MiguelLDawkins@yahoo.com
Miguel Dawkins
Charlotte, NC USA 03/29/2010
It's about time!
Thank you for showing the good side of Iran. There is so much phobia created by uninformed politicians who cash in on fear of other cultures. With the hope that cleric incompetent dictatorship of Iran will be overthrown in the next few years, a new era in the relationship of Americans and Iranians will begin as a monumental time for many of us who came here for education and wish to give back to America, a country who accepted us and gave us so much.
Darius Mondavi
San Diego, Ca USA 03/29/2010
Dear Mr. Steves, I am a Persian-American living in Monterey California. I teach Persian-Farsi to our soldiers teaching at Defense Language Institute. I just ordered the entire Rick Steve's package being a regular member of KQED and I enjoyed watching the spectacular Iran's coverage I have ever seen. You are a genius sir. How delightful it is to watch snips of life's memory although I have lived in the US for 39 years. I was 20 when I began living in the US as a diplomat working at the Imperial Embassy of Iran. I will be using your Iran segment as educational tool for our students and will send copy right permission for non-commercial educational purposes. I will be advising our purchasing department to contact your office for more copies to provide at the beginning when our students arrive. Although as you know we are the best language school in the world and we create best materials for the curriculum, we also collect best materials to use as supplement and your Iran's collection will be one of our best supplementary materials. My email address at the Department of the Army is farideh.nejat@us.army.mil and I am material specialist. Please let me know where I should send the copy right permission to use your Iran's segment as educational tool in Persian-Farsi Department.
Regards,
Farideh Nejat
USA 03/03/2010
Iran Show
I watched this show with great interest and Rick did a fabulous job with it. However, I would strongly criticize the moral equivalency that Rick tries to draw. I'd like to know what anti-Iranian "propaganda" the US spouts. Last I checked, there are no "Down with Iran" posters hanging anywhere. In general, the US loves the Iranian people. We just hate their unelected leaders, and justifiably so.
RJS
Pittsburgh, PA USA 03/02/2010
Iran Show
My wife and I watched your Iran show yesterday.We were both delighted with the show (It was very well done). More importantly,it's so important for all of us to get to know the "people" in countries that have tense relations with ours. Great Job!
Andrew Favret
Bethany Beach, DE United States 03/01/2010
Show on Iran
Thank you for an excellent show on Iran. It takes a guy like you to give us your thought-provoking opinions and to show us a country who has a long heritage of it's own, yet which is not seen in our media.
You asked great questions and gave us a sight of just how beautiful some of the country is, as well has a look at the ancient Persian ruins.
Again, job well done, as it always is!
Scott
Rockford, MI USA 02/25/2010
Iran
Thank You for your show about Iran. With all the problems that our goverments has with each other, it is wonderful to see how the people of Iran really live not the propaganda that is generate by certain people of the West.
Lennie Alexander
Cleveland, Ohio USA 02/23/2010
Iran
I just watched "Iran" on public television here in South Florida. Outstanding! It had a Christian Science Monitor feel to it. Present the facts and celebrate the people and country as it is, not denigrate the country and its people for not being something that some people wish it was. Thanks again!
John
Boca Raton, FL USA 02/22/2010
World Brotherhood in the making
Thanks Rick, for taking the time to show that people around the world are just people like us. It is only the self-serving governments that seek to keep us divided and at odds with others, so they can control things to their benefit.
As we learn to affirm our connection with and empathy for all peoples who suffer oppression, manipulation, and mind-control by governments, we begin to take back our power--the power to create a world of peace and world brotherhood.
How ironic that so many people have died in the name of religion. Perhaps we need to move away from organized religion and back into our hearts where love for mankind flourishes and is as natural as breathing.
Thank you, Rick, for helping us to recognize all peoples, as separate from governments, as our own brothers and sisters. Let us rejoice in the rich cultural differences and support each other in our human struggles and victories for a life lived in dignity and peace.
Mary Kieran
Ananda village, CA USA 02/09/2010
great show
what a wonderful show. If everyone in america could see this show many people would not have such fear of the iranians. i used to have a business in d.c. and worked for many islamic people and found them to be very fair and decent people. as a matter of fact i once dated the ambassador's body guard when the shah was still in power. their embassy was emblazoned with those little mirror pieces on the ceiling and beautiful carpets on the floors. i wish that all countries could get along and our country would keep the armies at home helping with all the natural disasters we have been having. if we only went out in the world to help people there would be no reason for a lot of the hostility in some factions.
suzanne
kearneysville, wv USA 02/09/2010
Persia
This was marvelous again! Watched it in April and its even better the 2nd time! We used to live there and loved it! The people, the food and learning about the culture & history. You did a magnificent job, Rick! Love all your shows!
lynn Hansen
napa, ca USA 02/06/2010
IRAN
Rick, thanks so much for the great show on Iran. I have only seen one other that was almost as good on that country. I wish that all americans were watching, but alas, those who need to see it the most don't watch public television I'm afraid. I hope that it gets rerun many times to help open the minds of the many with closed minds. Thanks you again, and keep up the good work.
GENO
ALTA, WY USA 02/06/2010
Rick Steves' Iran Conversation
Hi Rick,
My wife and I loved your program about Iran today on KQED (channel 9 San Francisco). It's about time that more people like you talked about common things between the US and Iran instead of emphasizing the differences in the American media.
As you so graciously indicated in your program Iranian people have a rich culture and heritage and they were a superpower in the old days. The only thing they want now is to be independent and not to be pushed around by any country. And mostly for that reason the US government (main media not the people) calls them a terrorist country. This is truly a big lie and very frustrating for me as someone who has been in this country for 45 years!
I love both America (especially the American people like you) and Iran and want the 2 countries to be friends again with mutual understanding and respect.
Thank you once again for a beautiful program.
Ali Selahvarzi
San Ramon, CA USA 02/06/2010
I loved the show and the people of Iran
I just watched Rick's show on Iran. I loved it. I met a wonderful person from Tehran and it was great to get to know her country a little. May we all love each other and live in peace.
Brent
San Francisco, CA USA 02/04/2010
Rick Stevens Iran
This was an incredible contribution to improved understanding. I hope that millions of Americans will see it. Thanks so much.
Charles Hostetter
San Francisco, CA USA 02/04/2010
This was a fantastic contribution...
I only caught the second half of the show. Flipping through the channels, I was instantly captivated by the images of Iranian architecture and art. Ricks narration was so clear and well rounded. I look forward to seeing his other programs!!
Bryan
San Francisco, CA USA 02/04/2010
5 Star Hotels?
Great show. Best thing that you conveyed in your show was that most people in the US don't understand is that Iranians are not Arab. Americans like to glump all middle east countries as one big Arab nation just because they worship Islam. Also many Iranians are very cosmopolitian unlike what their neighbors to the east, Iraq, has become. One complaint that was not fully addressed was foreign travel by westerners (forbidden or not) and the type of hotels Rick Steves stayed in and whether they are available for foriegn tourists.
Charlie
San Francisco, CA USA 02/04/2010
Iran
We saw Rick Steven's Iran on PBS tonight and enjoyed it. My husband and I were there in the Peace Corps in 1970-1972. It brought back a lot of memories.
Thanks,
Susan Kuthy
Hopewell, VA USA 01/26/2010
Iran
It was nice to see Iran demystified! Everyone seemed welcoming and friendly. I think that shows a different view than normally seen, so thank you for that.
Sonia Yemane
Aloha, OR USA 01/15/2010
IRAN
Rick,
Thank you for the presentation on Iran. We lived in Iran for about one and a half years. The people were friendly and we always felt safe no matter where we went. Two trips we particularly remember are Isfahan and the Caspian Sea.
We would like to request that the next time you converse about Iran you include that the Iranians are Aryans and not Arabs. We were told that on our second day in Tehran. Also there is a significant portion of the population in Tehran who are of Armenian descent and who practiced their Christian faith unhindered, and we understand still do. The history of how they came to Iran, hundreds of years ago, is a subject you should explore. Thanks again for bringing such important information to PBS.
George Buley
Normandy Park, WA USA 01/11/2010
The Iran TV production
I applaud you for the excellent work of presenting current conditions in Iran as personally experienced by you and the "crew". My tenuous understanding of the changes in Iran's government during my lifetime was given clarity by your appraisal.
Along with a growing number of other people around the world, I trust your emotions, your judgement and your obvious passion for truth. I would like to see you conversing with both Oprah Winfrey and President Obama on the subject of your travels and philosophy -- especially this recent visit to Iran. People of influence in any country can become allies towards encouraging a climate of peace and understanding around the globe for all of us to share, even in difficult times. Your efforts are always outstanding and show your moral compass is pointing in the right direction.
Rosie A.
Beaverton, OR USA 01/10/2010
Thank you for the program on Iran
Hi Rick,
Thank you for your wonderful program about Iran. It is great to see someone is telling it like it is...without the censorship of either side.. It showed a comprehensive picture of the past and the present. I thoroughly enjoyed it. This is also great for our kids to watch. The Iranian-American kids can get an underestanding of their heritage.
Thank you for bringing the people of the world closer together!
We need more people like you on earth.
Soraya
Cotati, CA USA 01/04/2010
History of Iran is GREAT!
1/3/10
I saw Rick Steven's Iran just now and I am more informed then ever before. We love his shows and would like him to know that. When we lived in Scotland we bought his book for our travels. The History of Iran should be published and put into School.
J Preston
Burbank, SD USA 01/03/2010
Appreciation to the Points you Convey
Rick, thank you so much for opening a window for Americans to see the people and culture of Iran. Too often and too easy we become blind by politicians and press. You let us see this vast land from a completely different angle, its profound history, deeply rooted yet modern culture, and friendly people. The program really teaches us the way of understanding the world. Looking forward to your new explorations!
Jane
New York, NY USA 01/03/2010
Steves' Iran
I was amazed to see the episode one Isfahan. It was very nice, like a fairy tale movie... so beautiful arts and the people. Looked like one of the most beautiful place on earth. Was it just like that, or you made it look like that. Amazing. I would love to watch more things like that on PBS.
Mary
LIC, NY USA 01/02/2010