Local Customs & Etiquette in Mashhad, Khorāsān-e Raẕavī, Iran
1. Visiting the Holy Imam Reza Shrine
Respect the sanctity of Iran's largest mosque complex; Remove shoes before entering and dress modestly.
- Dress Code: Wear loose-fitting, full-length clothing
- Footwear: Prepare to remove shoes before entering the shrine
- Respect: Show reverence and silence during prayer times
2. Etiquette in Iranian Tea House (Chai Khaneh)
Savor traditional Persian tea while learning local customs; Offer sweets when sharing a pot.
- Tea Service: Expect sweetened black tea served in small glasses
- Offering Sweets: Offer sweets when pouring tea for others
- Conversation: Discuss local topics and traditions during your visit
3. Dining in Restaurants
Savor delicious Iranian cuisine; Eat with flatbread rather than utensils.
- Tableware: Expect to use flatbread for eating instead of cutlery
- Menu Items: Try local favorites like Kabab or Ash-e Reshteh
- Dress Code: Casual attire is acceptable in most restaurants
4. Bazaar Shopping Etiquette
Barter for traditional Iranian goods at the bustling Grand Bazaar; Haggle politely and respectfully.
- Haggling: Expect to negotiate prices in a friendly manner
- Bargaining: Start your offer low and work towards a fair price
- Courtesy: Be polite and respect the shopkeepers' time and effort
5. Greeting Locals with 'Salaam'
Express peace and friendship by greeting locals with 'Salaam'; Respect body language customs.
- Body Language: Avoid direct eye contact when first meeting someone
- Salutation: Use 'Salaam' for a friendly greeting or farewell
- Response: Respond with 'Wa 'Aleykum Salaam' when greeted
6. Mashhad Metro Etiquette
Navigate the busy metro system; Keep left on escalators and give up seats to the elderly or pregnant women.
- Escalator Etiquette: Stand on the left side of escalators to let others pass
- Seating: Give up your seat if you see someone in need
- Queuing: Form a line and wait patiently at platforms and ticket machines
7. Local Persian Greetings
Learn common phrases to make connections with locals; Express politeness using 'Khodahafez' or 'Khosheshmaast'
- Polite Phrases: Use 'Khodahafez' when saying goodbye and 'Khosheshmaast' for 'You're welcome'
- Greetings: Learn common phrases like 'Merhaba' (Hello) or 'Konnad?' (How are you?)
- Courtesy: Always use titles when addressing someone older
8. Local Music and Dance Festivals
Immerse yourself in Iranian culture through music and dance; Respect local customs during performances.
- Dress Code: Dress modestly when attending these events
- Performance Etiquette: Avoid taking photos or making loud noises during performances
- Participation: Join in the dancing if invited, but respect any limitations
9. Visiting a Persian Home
Experience Iranian hospitality by visiting a local home; Remove shoes and eat with your right hand.
- Footwear: Prepare to remove shoes before entering the home
- Dining Etiquette: Eat with your right hand if serving yourself from a communal dish
- Gifts: Bring small gifts like sweets or tea as a gesture of goodwill
10. Local Holidays and Festivals
Celebrate local holidays and festivals; Show respect by adhering to customs and traditions.
- Respect: Respect religious sites during religious holidays
- Crowds: Expect large crowds during major festivals and celebrate with the locals
- Customs: Learn about and participate in local customs during these celebrations
11. Public Holidays
Respect Iranian public holidays; Expect closures of businesses and shops on those days.
- Closures: Expect many businesses to be closed during these holidays
- Celebrations: Participate in local celebrations if possible
- Respect: Show respect for the holidays and their significance to locals
12. Persian Carpet Shopping
Bargain for high-quality Persian carpets; Gain knowledge about the different designs and materials.
- Designs: Learn about popular Persian carpet designs like Heriz or Kashan
- Materials: Understand the difference between silk, wool, and cotton carpets
- Bargaining: Negotiate prices for the best deals while maintaining a friendly demeanor
13. Iranian Art and Crafts
Discover traditional Iranian art forms like miniature painting and ceramics; Appreciate the unique craftsmanship.
- Art Forms: Learn about various Persian art forms like calligraphy or tilework
- Craftsmanship: Appreciate the intricate detail and skill that goes into each piece
- Prices: Expect to pay more for higher quality, handcrafted pieces
14. Street Food and Snacks
Savor Iranian street food; Understand the local customs surrounding these treats.
- Snacks: Try local street food like Kotlet or Zolbia
- Customs: Learn about the history and cultural significance of each snack
- Hygiene: Ask vendors about food preparation methods to ensure cleanliness
15. Public Bathhouses (Hammam)
Experience the historic tradition of Iranian bathhouses; Understand the customs and etiquette for visiting a Hammam.
- Etiquette: Respect local customs by wearing provided clothing
- Procedures: Understand the steps involved in a traditional Hammam experience
- Massages: Opt for a soothing massage to complete your Hammam visit