Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Zoroastrian Calendar
The Zoroastrian calendar works to a solar year of 12 months of 30 days each, with five additional days. The week
has no place in this system, and each of the 30 days of the month is named after and presided over by its own angel
or archangel. The 1st, 8th, 15th and 23rd of each month are holy days. As in the Persian calendar, the Zoroastrian
year begins in March at the vernal equinox and except for Andarmaz, which replaces Esfand, the months are the
same.
Children
Foreign children will be the source of much amusement and curiosity, which is both a
great cultural ice-breaker and, after a while, can be annoying. Nappies (diapers), powders,
baby formula and most medications are widely available, though not necessarily in famili-
ar brands. The hardest thing will be trying to keep children entertained in a country where
journeys are long and attractions often rather 'adult'. Parents should relate fairly clearly to
their daughters aged nine or older that they'll have to wear hejab.
Eating with the family is the norm in Iran, and taking your kids into a restaurant will
not only be welcome but can bring you more-attentive service. While few menus include
special meals for children, staff often tailor the size of the meal to the size of the child.
Most food is not spicy.
If you have small children and plan on using taxis, you'll probably have to bring your
own baby seat. Few vehicles have seatbelts in the back, so it's worth asking for them
when you book. High chairs are rare and childcare agencies and nappy-changing facilities
almost non-existent. Breastfeeding in public is not a great idea.
