The only thing I would say about your post is that the 1000 km thing isn't entirely accurate. I take it you have not been to Iran. The southern edge of Iran, along the Persian Gulf, yes, the same story. But if you move in just a bit north to Shiraz, and then a bit further north to Isfahan, you'll see a different world with regard to culture, sophistication, love of books and poetry, etc. Completely different attitude and outlook too.
Don't believe all of what you see on tv. The recent events aside.
Also, if you're into skiing, there are absolutely gorgeous ranges north of Teheran. In both of the cities I named you would see tons of European tourists and it's not too expensive to fly there from Qatar. I think around $250 return to Shiraz. Highly recommend it on your next holiday.
Angelo,
The only thing I would say about your post is that the 1000 km thing isn't entirely accurate. I take it you have not been to Iran. The southern edge of Iran, along the Persian Gulf, yes, the same story. But if you move in just a bit north to Shiraz, and then a bit further north to Isfahan, you'll see a different world with regard to culture, sophistication, love of books and poetry, etc. Completely different attitude and outlook too.
Don't believe all of what you see on tv. The recent events aside.
Also, if you're into skiing, there are absolutely gorgeous ranges north of Teheran. In both of the cities I named you would see tons of European tourists and it's not too expensive to fly there from Qatar. I think around $250 return to Shiraz. Highly recommend it on your next holiday.