Shiraz, in the south-west of Iran, is the city of the old poets Sa'di (11th-12th century) and Hafez (14th century), who are still very much alive among Iranians, their poems often quoted. Surrounded by mountains, the city has a good climate, as well as an old palace complex, with a castle, a hammam (today a restaurant), a big mosque and a bazaar - everything people need!

There are flowers, trees, parks and gardens everywhere, with the tomb of Hafez and Sa'di perhaps the most beautiful of all, together with Eram Garden. There are also streets with thousands of little shops, which are great for walking around in - even by single women.

The population is very, very kind, and anybody who talks a little English is interested in talking to foreigners to practice. They are curious and considerate and very eager to make you feel welcome.

Iran is a fairly cheap country for eating and living, and since there is very little nightlife and you are not allowed to buy alcohol, a stay will not cost too much. And you will have an experience of a lifetime, so very, very different from the impression you usually get from European/American papers and TV.