Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Didaniha Hotel$$
( 444 4531;
www.didanihatravel.com
,
in Farsi; Jahan Rd, next to Marjan Mall; s/d/tr
US$67/76/85; )
Though desperately in need of refurbishment, the Didaniha is worth
considering due to its relatively low prices, excellent location right next to the beach and
tasty breakfast (including bread fresh from the oven). The 28 bungalows on offer are clean
and reasonably comfortable, though satellite TV is one of the few frills. Wi-fi is only
available in the reception building.
HOTEL
Dariush Grand Hotel$$$
( 444 4900-95;
www.dariushgrandhotel.com
; Dariush Sq; s US$160, d US$250-300,
ste US$590-800; )
This Achaemenid-inspired monument in marble is often de-
scribed as Iran's best hotel, though its Vegas-style ostentation won't please everyone.
Rooms are extremely comfortable and well equipped, but their 12-year-old decor is start-
ing to date. There's a good gym, an outdoor pool (men only), two restaurants and a coffee
shop. Wi-fi costs US$2 per hour. The hotel charges nonguests US$10 per person to have a
meal or drink here (usable as credit in the restaurants, but not at the coffee shop). Out-
rageous!
LUXURY HOTEL
Eating & Drinking
Be sure to enjoy a tea, cold drink or ice cream at one of the beach cafes south of the Grand
Recreational Pier - they're fabulous people-watching spots.
Payab Restaurant and Teahouse$$$
( 0934 769 1213; Olympic Blvd; meals US$18-30; noon-4pm & 8pm-midnight)
Set
in a garden above an old
payab
(underground water reservoir), this is a tranquil spot for
lunch and a very popular choice on warm nights, when there are live performances by loc-
al musicians. Serves of kababs and stews are large, bread comes hot from the oven and
salad ingredients are sourced from the restaurant's own kitchen garden (the radishes are
particularly delicious). It's possible to order tea and qalyan only, but there's a minimum
charge of US$9 and tea costs a whopping US$4.50.
TRADITIONAL IRANIAN
Shandiz Safdari$$$
( 445 0020; meals US$19-32; noon-3pm & 9pm-midnight)
This barn of a place is
located near the Marjan Mall and is the venue of choice for cashed-up Iranian tourists. It
offers a choice of traditional or Western seating and usually stages live music shows at
KABABI
