2017 marks my second year travelling with my husband after we officially got married in 2016. It has been an interesting ride for both of us, as we get more and more used to travelling as a couple. In fact, it feels weird not having him by my side when I explore new places. He’s my best traveling buddy! Compared to the previous years, we only managed to visit/revisit three destinations in 2017. We spent the bulk of our annualRead more
Iran is one of my favourite countries that I have visited. It is home to one of the oldest civilisations in the world. It has varied landscapes, impressive architectures, stunning mosaics, great history, and delicious foods. The people are the nicest and their hospitality often surprised me. That’s why I visited Iran twice: in 2011 during my 1-month backpacking trip in the Middle East, and recently in 2017 with my beloved husband. Will I visit Iran for the third time?Read more
After dinner, Ikmal and I join Majid to discuss about Shia, the most misunderstood branch of Islam, merely because the majority of Muslims in this world are Sunnis. Our intention in starting such discussion is not to try to convince the other party that his view is wrong, but merely to know and understand Shia from a Shia's perspective.
Our tour around the Imam Square continues to Ali Qapu Palace, which is unfortunately closing earlier than we expected. This used to be the place where Shah Abbas entertained his noble visitors and foreign ambassadors
We arrive in Esfahan just after the call to a morning prayer. I managed to sleep a little bit during the 6-hour long train ride. It was noisy and bumpy, but this was expected as I was too used to the comfort of European trains. But I'm happy that I'm in Esfahan now! I've always wanted to go to this city, which is the former capital city of Persia. When I think of Iran, Esfahan is the first thing that comes into my mind. The famous Square is the reason why I am drawn into this place.