Overview
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In general, we advise tourists not to carry large amounts of cash or valuables such as jewellery when going sightseeing. You may become absorbed in walking around or shopping, creating the perfect opportunity for opportunistic men who watch tourists in these areas. As in any other developing city, there are also thieves such as young boys on motorcycles, who steal what passers-by are carrying in the blink of an eye. Another type of crime in the city is impersonation. Some locals may claim to be high-ranking officials and ask for legal documents or “fees”. Check their identity before complying, and preferably do not pay any money requested of you except in an official building, to establish what is really happening. Isfahan, or Iran in general, does not have very friendly relations with the rest of the world because of its nuclear programme. This means that American and European tourists may be at risk of kidnapping if there is a sudden political shift within the country. Although this is rare, it has happened once in the past. American travellers may nevertheless face harassment, particularly from figures of authority such as police officers. There are local gangs within the city that trade in drugs and smuggle goods and electronics solely to make money, but exchanges of gunfire or killings sometimes occur. It is therefore best to avoid remote or deserted areas within the city, as these may contain warehouses or places where these gangs operate. If you wish to travel to one of these areas, always use local guides, who will warn you of the potential dangers you may face if you go to a particular place.
