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Home , Fin Garden, Golestan Palace, Hasht Behesht, Kashan, Marble Throne, National Museum of Iran

MUSEUM TRAVEL ALLIANCE

Iran: , Gardens & Design , , , & September 12–22, 2019 TRAVEL ALLIANCE

Dear Travelers and Friends, If you have always been intrigued by ancient cultures and great , then 2019 could be the year for a unique discovery and experience. The Museum Travel Alliance is pleased to offer a new tour, "Architecture, Gardens & Design in Iran" (September 12–22, 2019). Travelers on this exclusive journey will discover the country’s most spectacular , ancient sites, , , and public centers. They will also enjoy Iran’s contemporary culture, with opportunities to attend a live performance of traditional Persian music, dine at local restaurants, see contemporary , meet artists, and shop at lively . Begin in Shiraz to admire tombs of mystical Persian poets, elegant architecture, and fine handicrafts. In Persepolis, wander vast ruins that have remained nearly unchanged since the city was destroyed by . Continue to Isfahan, the 17th-century of the , to stroll the magnificent square (the Maidan-e-Naghsh-e-Jahan), and explore a sumptuous , a music museum, the city’s Armenian Quarter, and a historic known for its handicrafts and kilim rugs. Our journey concludes in the capital of Tehran. Explore collections of art, artifacts, and jewelry at several of the city’s finest museums, and admire extraordinary tilework at the UNESCO-listed complex. There will also be opportunities to see some of Iran’s famous gardens in Shiraz, Isfahan, and Kashan. Arrangements Abroad, the tour operator for MTA, has taken travelers to Iran for many years. The local tour operator has been a trusted partner on all these trips, and we’ll have one of the top guides in the country. I had the opportunity to travel to Iran in 2017 with my wife Liz. We found the Iranian people to be extremely gracious and welcoming towards Americans and the sights inspiring—far beyond our expectations. From the haunting along the old trade routes to the splendidly tiled city mosques, the country’s elegant 2,500-year-old heritage exists alongside a new creative energy. With the endless array of cultural splendors that awaits, this journey to Iran promises to be a trip of a lifetime. And you will enjoy traveling in the congenial company of members from a number of museums and cultural institutions. We hope you will join us. Sincerely, SPECIAL NOTE ON THE REQUIRED VISA: Due to strict guidelines imposed for necessary visas to travel to Iran, the deadline for enrollment in this September program is May 15, 2019. A passport-sized photo is required for enrollment. Please review the U.S. State Department’s Travel Advisory for Iran at travel.state.gov. Arrangements Abroad has safely operated a dozen Jim Friedlander trips to Iran over the last decade and welcomes your participation. President, Museum Travel Alliance

HIGHLIGHTS

DISCOVER UNESCO World Heritage Sites, from MARVEL at the 2,500-year-old ruins of ancient ruins to medieval mosques to lush gardens. Persepolis, once the center of the great Persian This includes visits to ten palaces and houses, eight Empire and one of the most important sites of the museums and collections, seven mosques, six gardens, Ancient World. three ruins, two bazaars, and one vault filled with gems and jewels. MEET contemporary artists during private gallery visits, and learn about the creation of beautiful BROWSE age-old bazaars in Shiraz and Isfahan. Persian . Iran: Architecture, Gardens & Design Shiraz, Persepolis, Isfahan, Kashan & Tehran September 12–22, 2019

Narenjestan Palace, Shiraz THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 12: ISTANBUL AIRPORT Arrive independently to Istanbul Airport by late afternoon. We will meet there to connect to our late-night flight to Shiraz.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 14: SHIRAZ FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 13: SHIRAZ After breakfast, depart for the pink-tiled 19th-century Arrive in Shiraz in the early hours and transfer to the Homa Nasir-al-Mulk (Pink ) to see its beautiful stained- Hotel for time to rest. Rooms have been reserved from the glass windows in the morning light. Continue to the Khan night before, so they will be ready for us. In the afternoon, (school) to see a restoration workshop, and depart to visit the Qajar-period Narenjestan Palace and stop at the . This afternoon, visit the Stone Garden and the elegant . We will also see the Museum and see the tomb of (time permitting). In tomb of the poet Saadi and the Masjid-i-Vakil, a mosque the evening, explore the Naranj Art Gallery before dinner, famed for its spacious prayer hall of vaulted bays, twisting where we hope to be joined by some artists. B,L,D , and stained-glass windows. This evening stop at a merchant before dinner. B,L,D Abstract by Amin Ashrafian, Naranj Art Gallery, Shiraz

Nasir-al-Mulk (Pink Mosque), Shiraz Entry and windows of the Great Palace of , Persepolis

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 15: PERSEPOLIS / ISFAHAN Today drive to Isfahan, stopping en route in Persepolis. , Izad-Khast Once the center of the Persian Empire, Persepolis was one of the most important sites of the ancient world. At the fascinating of Naghsh-é-, see the Royal Tombs and the Ka’bé-Zardosht “fire temple.” After lunch, we continue northwards, stopping to see the 17th- century Safavid caravanserai. On the ancient Silk Road, a caravanserai (roadside inn) served travelers to rest and recover during journeys. We will also see the hilltop remains of the ancient castle at the Izad-Khast. The complex is under consideration to join World Heritage List. Arrive in Isfahan for check-in and dinner at the elegant Hotel Abbasi, where we'll stay for three nights. B,L,D

The necropolis of Naghsh-é-Rostam, Persepolis

NEAR PERSEPOLIS: The necropolis of Naghsh-é-Rostam

House-Studio Museum of Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo Copper wares in the bazaar, Isfahan

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 16: ISFAHAN Isfahan, the 17th-century capital of the Safavid Dynasty, is referred to as Nesf-e-Jahan, or “Half of the World.” Admire the and walls surrounding the UNESCO- listed square, Maidan-e-Naghsh-e-Jahan. The square is flanked by the Ali-Qapu Palace and two of the world’s greatest mosques: the Sheikh Lotfollah and the Masjid-i Iman, both featuring splendid work. No visit to Isfahan would be complete without a stop at the historic bazaar, where hundreds of shops sell traditional Persian handicrafts. After lunch, we will also see the Pavilion, set amongst tree-lined alleys, a reflecting pool, and water rills. End the afternoon with a visit to the Khaiu Bridge, one of Isfahan’s famous eleven bridges. Enjoy an optional visit to a carpet weaver, followed by dinner at a restaurant. B,L,D

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17: ISFAHAN This morning, marvel at the sumptuous Palace of , whose twenty columns reflected in the garden pool give the palace its name of “Forty Columns.” Tour the Decorative Museum before continuing to the Music Museum to admire its collection of traditional Persian instruments and attend a performance. Before lunch, we will also see the Armenian Quarter, where Abbas I transplanted a colony of skilled Christian entrepreneurs in 1604. In the afternoon, visit the magnificent Friday Mosque or Masjid-I Jameh, considered to be a museum of more than a thousand years of religious architecture. Explore a local art gallery before dinner. B,L,D

Masjid-i Iman, formerly known as the , Isfahan Tabatabaee House, Kashan

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 18: ISFAHAN / KASHAN / TEHRAN Bagh-e-, Kashan Drive north to Kashan, known as the City of Roses, to find shops selling rose water, fragrances, soaps, lotions, and even rose candies. We'll discover the UNESCO-listed Fin Garden, or Bagh-e Fin, a 19th-century merchant residence, and Sultan Amir Ahmad Bathhouse. If time allows, we'll visit the Tabatabaee House, once a merchant's home. This evening, we arrive in Tehran and check in at the centrally located Espinas Hotel. B,L,D

Bagh-e-Fin Garden, Kasha,Kashan, Rose distillery, inset of roses, photo by Erwin Bolwidt Kashan Fragment of a stone from Persepolis, , Tehran THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 19: TEHRAN We start our day at the Golestan Palace Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating from the 18th to early 20th century. See the Marble Hall and the Hall of Mirrors, used as a coronation room, and stroll the garden to view the ornate tile-covered walls. After lunch, visit the Malek National Museum and Library, Iran’s first private museum, to admire the manuscripts collection. An optional guided walk takes us to the nearby Laleh Park and past the Tehran Museum of Contemporary Art, currently closed for renovation. Dine at a local restaurant tonight. B,L,D

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 20: TEHRAN In the morning, discover the National Museum of Iran and the adjacent Islamic Era Museum. Enjoy lunch at the Ferdowsi Hotel with a special ice cream dessert and tea/ coffee in the 1960s lobby lounge. This afternoon, tour the Abgineh Museum’s collection of pre-Islamic and Islamic glass and ceramics, displayed in an elegant early 20th- century mansion. There will also be time for visiting a few art galleries. B,L,D

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21: TEHRAN Today we go to the fashionable northern part of Tehran for a visit to the Palace complex, set among the foothills of the Mountains. See the former Pahlavi residences and tour the museum of paintings and artifacts collected by Farah Diba, the last Empress of Iran. We will also see the Green Palace before lunch. In the afternoon, SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 22: ARRIVE TO ISTANBUL / explore the Jewels Museum, housed in the vaults of the CONNECT TO RETURN FLIGHTS HOME . The museum displays one of the most Our flight will arrive in Istanbul in the very early morning. dazzling collections in the world, including the legendary Onward connections will depart today. Peacock Throne. Then, admire a fine array of carpets from ancient to contemporary at the Carpet Museum. Dinner DISCLAIMER: The itinerary is subject to change at the tonight is at the hotel. B,L,D discretion of The Museum Travel Alliance. For complete details, please carefully read the terms and conditions at SPECIAL NOTE: On September 21, hotel rooms are reserved for late https://museumtravelalliance.com/faq.php. check-out. Thus following dinner, we will transfer to the airport for our late-night flight to Istanbul. Mirrored hall, Golestan Palace, Tehran

Main hall of the Islamic Era Museum, Tehran ACCOMMODATIONS PROGRAM RATE All hotels are equipped with Wi-Fi in the rooms and lobby, $6,999 per person, double occupancy flat-screen TVs, desks, in-room mini-bars; and in-room person- al safes. The hotels offer laundry and dry-cleaning services. $7,999 single rate RATE INCLUDES

n Homa Hotel, Shiraz Nine nights accommodations as per itinerary n Meals as indicated in the itinerary (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner); bottled water, sodas, and coffee/tea with all meals (alcohol is forbidden at all times in Iran) n Airport/hotel/airport group transfers for all participants on suggested flights n Escorted sightseeing, transportation, and entrance fees for all included visits n Taxes, service, and porterage charges n Gratuities to local guides and drivers

NOT INCLUDED IN RATE International airfare; passport/visa fees; airport transfers other than for those on suggested flights; baggage in excess of one suitcase; trip insurance; personal items and HOMA HOTEL, SHIRAZ expenses; any other items not specifically mentioned as included. The hotel offers the facilities of a first-class business hotel, along with the peace of a relaxing atmosphere and with Golestan Palace, Tehran beautiful gardens. The hotel has a beautiful shopping arcade and indoor swimming pool. Homa, a mythical bird of Iranian legends and fables, is featured in the stone column sculptures at Persepolis.

Abbasi Hotel, Isfahan

ABBASI HOTEL, ISFAHAN This hotel comprises an original 300-year old caravanserai A NOTE ABOUT TRAVEL TO IRAN structure and a modern wing. The courtyard is a magnificent Participants must be in good health and able to keep pace oasis within the city with pools of water and gardens. There with an active group. They must be able to walk up to one are a variety of restaurants and there is a pool, sauna, gym, mile a day on uneven terrain; walk and stand for periods jacuzzi, massage service, barber shop and shopping arcade. of two hours at time; climb stairs (some without handrails) at monuments and other locations not handicapped accessible; and board a motorcoach unassisted. Any condition that may require assistance or special medical attention must be reported at the time of your reservation. Participants are advised to bring “broken-in” walking shoes, a sun hat, and comfortable attire.

Iranian people are warm and hospitable towards visitors. Certain rules of dress and conduct are strictly observed Espinas Hotel, Tehran, photo © Espinas Persian Gulf Hotel in Iran and all trip participants are expected to adhere to local laws and customs. Alcohol is forbidden at all times, and details about appropriate attire will be shared with ESPINAS PERSIAN GULF HOTEL, TEHRAN participants prior to departure. Long drives are to be Experience one of the most refined hotels downtown, which expected during this program; however, the remarkably blends modern design elements with rich natural materials. varied landscapes of Iran will offer a scenic panorama The hotel features two restaurants, swimming pool, and a along the way. Review the U.S. State Department’s Travel wellness center with weight room and cardio equipment. Advisory for Iran at travel.state.gov. Ceiling at the Kahn Madrasa, Shiraz

THE MUSEUM TRAVEL ALLIANCE IRAN: ARCHITECTURE, GARDENS & DESIGN n SEPTEMBER 12–22, 2019 RESERVATION FORM

To reserve a place, please call The Museum Travel Alliance at 212-324-1893 or 855-533-0033, fax: 212-344-7493; or complete and return this form with your deposit of $1,000 per person (of which $500 is non-refundable for administrative fees) payable to The Museum Travel Alliance. Mail to: The Museum Travel Alliance, 1040 Avenue of the Americas, 23rd floor, New York, NY 10018-3721.

______Name(s) in full as on passport(s). Please print.

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ACCOMMODATIONS Hotel room preference p One bed p Two beds p Single I wish to share a room with ______

MTA MUSEUM AFFILIATION______

FORM OF PAYMENT p Enclosed is my check (payable to The Museum Travel Alliance) p Debit card p Credit card

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I/We confirm that I/we have carefully read and agree to the Terms & Conditions of this Program (see https://museumtravelalliance.com/faq.phps to review or call for a copy). I/We agree to full payment 120 days prior to departure. Each participant must sign below.

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On the front cover: Masjid-i Imam, formerly known as the Shah Mosque, Isfahan B_19LNDSYZ0912_MTA Photography by Chas A. Miller III