Women Riders in Iran
 

Hiya Folks

We are looking at travelling next summer down through Turkey to Iran and then ferry it over to the UAE...

When travelling in Iran - all women need to cover their hair/heads... being on a motorcycle an wearing a helmet that totally covers your head is one thing - not having blonde locks of hair flowing out of the back is another... has anyone had any real experience of this...

Do you need to cover your head so that once you remove the helmet you are already covered...

daft question... i know - but one worth asking...

Tony.

No, you don't, Tony, but out of respect a scarf should cover the hair once the helmet is removed.

Did you get a chance to see any of Rageh Omar's BBC reports from Iran earlier this year? Iran is in many ways so different from how the media portrays it to us.

For further insight, I recommend watching some Iranian films and particularly Marmoulak ('The Lizard' in English) which gives an insight into most Iranians' view of religious zealotry. It was a huge hit in Iran before the subtle message got through to the authorities and it was banned.

Enjoy your trip.
Stephan

Women in Iran
 

Hi Tony

I rode through Iran with my partner and another couple without any problems in 2005. Try to tuck long hair in the back of your jacket if you can - if its not that long that don't worry. I wore a Buff scarf around my neck all the time then whenever i removed my crash helemt, I pulled it back over my head and this avoided any problems. It is fairly cool to wear as you unload you bike and check into hotels (which I always did). For a photo check out the Iran photos on our website: www.2riders-1dream.com - join us on our trip around the world

I think people do worry a bit too much. When stopped at a police check-point and removed my helemt there was no problem from the police.

Any other questions feel free to ask

Becky

headscarfs under helmets
 

hi,

we did it differently and wore headscarfs under the helmets, just because it is easier when you take of your helmet in a busy place. but no-one will make a row if you are 'in your hair' for a short while. we rode in long jackets the first time through, in bike gear the second time, and it didn't make any difference. however, both in bandr-e abbas and in mashaad we got a remark on our clothes, but always when we were not with the bikes. in mashad it was close to the shrine (even though we were in a dress), in bandar it was our own fault; we hand't unloaded and were in our shirts instead of dresses... but don't worry too much. it's a lovely country to ride through, and the women think it's really great to see you ride.

for picturen check Flickr: Photos from trui_gaea

enjoy
g&t