Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
shops, giving them a hitherto unimaginable freedom of movement as well as opportunities to socialise and commu-
nicate outside their immediate families.
One of the shops is located in a handicraft booth at the entrance to Shibderaz village and two are in Berkeh
Khalaf village (one next to the Khalij supermarket and another at the entrance of the village near the school). All
three are open from 9am to 8pm daily, though they usually close for a few hours over lunchtime. The shops sell
hand-decorated shawls, bags, headbands, hairclips and clothes
.
LARAK & HENGAM ISLANDS
These two islands off the southern coast of Qeshm are surrounded by impressive soft coral
reefs. Larak is the best for diving, but Hengham is known for its wildlife, including birds,
gazelles and dolphins. The beaches are pristine, but only men are allowed to swim. The
Avaye Tabiate Paydar Institute can organise diving trips to Hengham for US$100 per per-
son and to Larak for US$130 per person (both based on a group of five). The price in-
cludes transfers to/from Qeshm Town, boat and diving-equipment hire and a dive instruct-
or. It can also arrange a full-day ecotour of Hengham including transfer from Qeshm
Town and lunch for US$100 per person (four to eight people).
Sleeping
We recommend taking advantage of a homestay option on the island rather than staying in
one of the characterless hotels in Qeshm Town. Both of the homestays mentioned here of-
fer basic bedding and bathroom facilities but are impeccably clean, extend warm wel-
comes and serve delicious food. The owners speak Farsi only, so if this is a problem for
you, ask the Avaye Tabiate Paydar Institute to arrange your booking.
HOMESTAY
Mr Amini's House$
( 0917 767 7601; Tabl; B&B US$9)
Mr Esmael Amini and his family welcome travel-
lers into their home in Tabl near the Harra Sea Forest and are great hosts. Bedding is laid
out on the floor at night and there are showers in rooms; shared (squat) toilets are off the
courtyard. Meals costs between US$8 and US$9 depending on what is served (the fish
dishes are delicious).
HOMESTAY
Mrs Fattahi's House$
