Iran Guided Tour, 13 Nights, $1,600

Before you go, check the weather forecast, the local time, and the exchange rate at BudgetTravel.com.

Some may feel that it's neither safe nor appropriate to visit Iran, a constitutional Islamic republic and member of the so-called Axis of Evil; read up on travel warnings and security conditions on the State Department website and share your opinions about visiting repressive countries with other readers by posting a comment on our blog.

Khaju Bridge, Esfahan (Thomas Schmitt/Getty) [enlarge photo]

Getting There International airfare is not included. The lowest round-trip fares we found through Kayak for travel to Tehran in mid-May were $1,065 from Atlanta (KLM Royal Dutch), $1,081 from New York City (Aeroflot), $1,158 from L.A. (Aeroflot), $1,190 from Detroit (multiple airlines), and $1,372 from Houston (multiple airlines).

Wondering what to pack? Here is G.A.P's take: "Iran is a traditional Islamic nation, and a strict dress code is enforced throughout the country. The tour leader will advise passengers of appropriate attire during the welcome meeting. Men must wear long pants; loose-fitting cotton pants are preferable for the Iranian heat. Short-sleeved shirts that cover your shoulders and open-toed sandals are now acceptable for men—ankles must be covered. Men must wear full-length shirts at religious sites. Men must be wearing long trousers upon arrival and shirts that cover their shoulders, or they may be refused entry."

"Upon arrival in Iran, women not wearing a headscarf, long sleeves, sealed shoes, and a loose-fitting skirt or pants may be refused entry into the country (to avoid this problem, bring a thin, full-length raincoat if you choose to buy a manteau after you arrive). The most comfortable items of clothing to wear underneath your manteau are full-length, lightweight cotton garments like trousers or even skirts. Women must also wear covered shoes or sandals that cover their ankles and skin."

Looking for a last-minute deal? G.A.P offers a 20 percent discount on packages that still have spaces open for departure dates within two months.

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