Travelling to Iran? Here's what you should and shouldn't do

Andrew Stone offers some tips for your Iranian voyage.

DO take lots of pictures but use discretion. Arrests have occurred at defence installations.

DON'T shake a woman's hand unless she extends hers. Iran's cultural rules are very different from ours and just as valid.

DO take a couple of head scarves if you are female. The dress code is simple and inexpensive.

DO visit the National Jewels museum in Tehran

. Located in a bank vault, it is only open for a couple of hours, so the queues get long. The treasures inside, some with a history of being plundered and looted, included the world's largest pink diamond and a golden globe with oceans made of emeralds.

Prayer Hall, Nasir-al Molk Mosque, Shiraz, Iran. Photo / Getty Images

DO try as many dishes as you can

. Persian food is mouthwatering. Fruit juices are fresh and tasty and the kebabs moist and succulent.

DON'T stop crossing a road once you start. Traffic comes from all directions, at the same time. Zebra crossings are decorative, not functional.

DON'T despair that Iran is dry. A couple of weeks on the wagon won't hurt.

DO take plenty of cash. American dollars are handy and earn a good rate.

DON'T worry if you get lost in a bazaar. And don't be afraid to buy gifts, even a carpet. Bargaining will be fun.

DO understand an Iranian visa in your passport can create complications for future visits to the US.