Posted on 10/07/2006 2:50:53 PM PDT by freedom44
Top News Story
Haartz
Iran is considering a novel way to reassure the world about its atomic ambitions: it plans to open its nuclear facilities to tourists.
"Based on the president's order, tourists can visit all nuclear sites in Iran ... We are studying ways to implement this order," Head of Iran's Tourism and Cultural Heritage Organisation Esfandiar Rahim-Mashai told state television on Wednesday.
President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad insists the West has trying to stop Iran developing what he says is a peaceful nuclear programme. The West suspects it is aimed at developing an atomic bomb.
"This order is to show Iran's nuclear activities are peaceful and transparent," a senior official from the tourism organisation told state radio without giving his name.
The official said tourists could visit the facilities, including the Natanz uranium enrichment plant, 250 km (150 miles) south of Tehran, the centrepiece of Iran's disputed atomic fuel drive.
Despite offering attractions such as ancient Persian ruins, intricately tiled mosques and spice-filled bazaars, as well as skiing in its northern mountains, tourism is underdeveloped in the Islamic Republic, where strict religious dress codes require women to cover their heads and bodies.And it is unclear whether tourists will flock to see Iran's nuclear facilities, which are ringed by anti-aircraft batteries.
A Daily Briefing of Major News Stories on Iran:
Who the hell goes to Iran as a tourist?
Congressman Billybob
Latest article: "Sex, Politics, and Hypocrisy"
Please see my most recent statement on running for Congress, here.
Can I bring my Shih-Tzu ?
Do we get T-shirts?
Only reason to go is to see the ruins of the Persian Empire - the tomb of Cyrus the Great, Darius the Great, Xerxes, etc. Iran would be a beautiful place if the Ayatollahs were gone.
I meant at the current time. I'd love to go there after the islamonazi regime is gone. Great history and nice people. Then there will be another reason: gorgeous Persian women that won't have to wear burkhas anymore.
Visiting a uranium enrichment plant would be high on my list of “touristy” things to see./s
This may have a new meaning in the next few weeks or months.
Join Us At Today's Iranian Alert Thread – The Most Underreported Story Of The Year!
"If you want on or off this Iran ping list, Freepmail DoctorZin”
well well well...now we know where to send the Dixie Chicks, Barbra Striesand, George Clooney, Micheal Moore, etc etc etc. :)
Well, it seems that Code Pink, ANSWER, Vets for Peace et al can travel to the post oppressed regions and come out unscathed. Sad
A friend of mine from work recently visited Iran (last few weeks). He was told then that no photography was allowed near the nuclear facilities. They drove past them and saw the anti-aircraft batteries. FWIW he said he enjoyed the visit and the mainstream people of Iran we very nice and cordial. Very different from the government.
Excellent point. Taking a page from Saddam's old playbook.
No question, it will be a gold mine.
"Oh, Goody. The Iranians are inviting in tourists (hostages)."
You beat me to it Congressman.
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.
