ISFAHANG – In an impressive revelation that counters years of negative perception, 100 international tour operators from 25 countries have recently visited Iran’s ancient city of ISFAHANG and expressed their surprise at the reality they encountered.
Part of a five-day friendly tour named “Isfahan Tour Operator Meeting”, their excursion offers tourism experts the opportunity to experience Isfahan in Iran firsthand, and the country’s discolored global image I tried to do it.
Hosted by the Isfahan Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture in close collaboration with government agencies and the private sector, the FAM Tour aims to showcase Isfahan’s historic grandeur, rich culture and hospitality. It also promoted inter-business conferences (B2B) meetings and discussions to strengthen global tourism relations.
In an interview on the fourth day of the tour, several operators shared their impressions and expressed their surprise and praise for Iran’s hospitality, cultural vibrancy and tourist potential.
Sharon, a native of Cape Town, South Africa, admitted that her previous perception of Iran was very different from reality, saying she doesn’t expect such a beautiful city.
“And I’m very happy to say that it’s absolutely nothing like my previous imagination. We’ve been extremely privileged to be exposed to what is possible in Iran, especially around here. I’m excited to support you (R Tourism Industry).
Adnan of Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina admitted that his expectations were low due to limited information about Iran, which was caused by international sanctions. However, his experience at Isfahan was delighted to surprise him.
“Well, honestly, due to the sanctions, we didn’t receive much information from Iran. So I wasn’t expecting much, but I’m surprised now.”
“I saw a lot of young people on the streets smiling on their faces. The hospitality here is overwhelming and Isfahan is a truly beautiful destination,” he said. He also revealed that his company has already begun planning a group tour to Iran.
Alesia, from St. Petersburg, Russia, reflected similar sentiments. “It was a great experience. The historic buildings, the warmth of the people and the overall atmosphere really impressed me. I believe this event will attract more Russian tourists to Iran. ” she said.
“I was very surprised and impressed by what we experienced in Isfahan, and I think this event will certainly attract more tourists from Russia and all other countries.”
“We would like to thank all those involved in organizing the process and who made this event a reality. And we could explore such a beautiful city of Isfahan. It’s really half the world,” Alessia said. I did.
“It’s so beautiful. And I’m not just these historic buildings, monuments, this architecture. I mean the people, their attitude, their stability, their friendship, their warm welcome. Masu.”
Kara in Bosnia and Herzegovina highlighted the influence of media stereotypes. “We often see Iran being misrepresented in the media. This trip was a great opportunity to break these stereotypes. My opinion in Iran has always been positive, but this is what I think. The visit reaffirmed that,” she explained.
“Your country is amazing, so while my opinion was the same (this tour) reassured me and reaffirmed me.”
Sardar Muhammad, a native of Delhi, India, who has visited Iran many times, described Isfahan as part of a paradise in the heart of Iran.
“This is my fifth trip to Iran. I know Tehran well and it is a very, very beautiful city. But it is my first visit to Isfahan. The Jannath (park) is located in the heart of Iran. (part of) It’s very beautiful.
South Africa’s Abbas Malik also admitted that his expectations were completely different before he arrived in Iran. “The people here are very kind and humble… that is in stark contrast to the image we had before,” he observed.
“This is my first time visiting Iran. And when I arrived here, I can see that it’s completely different from what we had previously expected. I found the people were very kind, wonderful and humble. …That’s a big difference.”
Greece’s Katrina urged travelers to visit Isfahan and praised the breathtaking handicrafts and carpets. “Isfahan is truly “half of the world.” Katrina pointed out that she definitely encourages Greeks to visit this beautiful city.
“And more, Isfahan has very nice and kind people and delicious food… When I return to Greece, I persuade everyone to visit Isfahan and experience how beautiful it is.”
A treasure trove of undeveloped possibilities
Muhammad Reza, from Mumbai, highlighted Iran’s rich tourist offerings. “Iran is a beautiful and historic place, but it’s not sold well internationally. If promoted effectively, it could be a top destination,” he pointed out, and Iran has more He suggested that multilingual promotional materials should be used to reach global audiences.
“Iran is a very beautiful and historic place. The sad part is that it’s not sold well in the world. When it comes to tourism, it’s like a good product, but in that sense, the branding is not visible. .”
“We, tour operators from different countries, do our best to communicate that they are seeing what they see here. Talk about the hospitality of people, Muhammad Reza said.
“You know, Iranians’ problems are mostly Farsian, but the world doesn’t understand. If they talk about Hafez, but like English, Iranian culture. It will help spread the word further.”
“It should be used for product marketing. Otherwise it will remain in the four corners of Iran itself. So if you want to outreach the world, you will find Iran’s message and Iran short for anything other than the world. If you want to convey a message of love, we need you to know, you need to reach different languages and different media and platforms outside.
He also spoke about his experience visiting the desert during his FAM tour. “We went to Varzaneh (desert), which was a very beautiful place. It was my first experience. I had never seen such a desert or safari experience. Very beautiful experience. It was also very interesting because we had many different cultures. Friends from countries we have never seen before. Friends from Bosnia. Friends from Armenia. Friends from Thailand and friends from South Africa. Also a colleague.”
A new dawn for tourism in Iran
Testimonies from these tour operators highlight a harsh contrast between Iran’s international image and earthly reality. Their experience in Isfahan reinforces the need to more accurately express the possibilities of Iran’s tourism.
Once these operators return home, their in-person accounts are catalytic to challenge change, misconceptions and explore the rich history, culture and hospitality that Iran has to offer It may be helpful. Such events illustrate key steps in rebranding Iran’s image and establishing it as a key player in the global tourism industry.
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