Shiraz, Iran

After travelling to more than 50 countries, it starts repeating itself somehow. The landmarks, attractions, and religious places all starts looking the same. It becomes challenging to find something unique that makes you want to grab your camera out of your bag to capture the sight. I believe especially recently that I have started to capture more moments and people while travelling, rather than attractions. People in a natural setting in their every day life tells a story, and captures how the atmosphere was. 

Shiraz, oh Shiraz. As long as I can remember from my childhood, have I always heard about Shiraz (and Ghalat of course). Despite all stories, I have not done enough of research nor really dug into my roots as much as I could have. Somehow, leaving it all to my imagination with the stories from my father, made the trip quite exciting. 

When I visited Morocco in the summer 2018, I was mesmerised by the colours, the handicraft, spices and generally the atmosphere of the markets and the locals. While walking through the Vakil Bazaar, it gave me a strong throwback from Fez in Morocco, except that the vendors are less aggressive. Shiraz is the perfect city for a visitor who prefers to walk around and explore. Around and within walking distance from the Vakil Bazaar, you will find almost all most important and beautiful sights. 

From the beginning: Me and Parvin arrived to Shiraz Airport late in the evening, where my two cousins picked us up. Despite us being tired, we were headed towards Haft Khan Restaurant, one of the city's most top-notch restaurants. We had a traditional Iranian feast while enjoying the music from a live band. The very next day was busy walking through most attractions. The day started early with breakfast and a visit to the Nasir ol-molk Mosque (sometimes referred to as the Pink Mosque). The best time of the day to visit is during the morning before noon, as this is the timing when the sun rays hits the coloured mosaic windows. 

Additionally, during my time in Shiraz I also visited the Thomb of Hafez, the Vakil Mosque, the Vakil Bath, The Quran Gate, the Afif-Abad Garden, the Arg of Karim Khan, and probably more. 

During my visit, we spent time at my aunties home where my entire family from my fathers side were gathered. It was probably a moment in my life I will never forget. The gathering was for approximately 40 people, but apparently half of the family could not make it. It's a shame that I don't speak farsi fluently, as this would not only made my visit to the family much easier, but also communicating with the locals while exploring the city aswell. Fortunately, wherever I went, I had the privilege to be accompanied by a cousin or friend.

Shiraz, was amazing and I would recommend it to anyone really. I can't wait to go back again and explore more of Iran.