Iran is offering money to travel agents who can lure certain types of tourists to Iran, and the rate is double for bringing European and American travelers.
"Iran's Tourism Department will pay $20 for every American or European tourist that travel agents can bring," Mohammad Sharif Malekzadeh, deputy director of the Tourism and Cultural Heritage Organization, said Tuesday in a statement reported by the news agency IRNA. The statement also specified a $10 payment for luring Asian tourists.
Well, they're small.
"We do not have a problem with American people," Ahmadinejad said. "We oppose only the U.S. government's bullying and arrogance."
Hmmm. I got more of a problem with American people than he does. About 30% of 'em anyway. I totally agree about the government.
Last month, Iran offered to open its nuclear sites to foreign visitors as another incentive for visitors. Esfandiar Rahim-Masahai, head of the Tourism and Cultural Heritage Organization, said Ahmadinejad had ordered the move and that it was intended, in part, to convince the world that the nuclear program is peaceful.
I think, given who's in charge of our B-52s and Tomahawks, that I'd rather go to the zoo, thank you.
Despite Iran's diverse landscape and ancient historical sites, the effort to attract more foreign tourists has failed so far.
A ban on alcohol and a law that requires women to cover their hair have been powerful hindrances.
Iran also has insufficient hotels and tourist facilities around the country because of its isolation since the 1979 Islamic revolution.
Most tourists are Shiite Muslim pilgrims from the region who travel to religious sites.
This is just soundin' better and better, huh?
Malekzadeh said tourists can also apply for visas on the Internet to ease the process.
Boy, that'd settle your vacation plans! All expenses paid, free rides to and from the airport, accommodations to rival the finest in Teheran, warm breezes. Gitmo, here I come!
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