Stephanie Badii (USA, 21 Feb 2002): I returned again to Iran this year for the New Years Eve of 2002. This time, I thought it would be fun to go with a group of Westerners and experience skiing in Iran. So, it was I and 7 Danish and 1 New Zealander. Other than me... there was another girl (23) and the rest our ages ranged from 23 to 32. We had skiers, telemarkers and one snowboarder. I must say I really didn't know what I was getting myself into... but it turned out to be the trip of our lifetime. We all had the best time of our lives. It was two weeks of non-stop sightseeing, skiing and partying. We slept an average 3 hours a night because we just didn't want to miss out on anything. Most of us stayed up in the mountains in this village which was a surreal experience by itself.

Our ski experience itself was amazing. The snow was AWESOME. People in Iran really don't like to do off piste skiing so, it was virgin powder and much of our days were spent off-piste skiing. There was more to cover than we had time. No Islamic guards to be seen and much of the resort were looking out for us. The locals knew who we were and took great care of us. I think I now have a better understanding of why I love it so much... it's not only the powder, it's the people. On the last day on my last run it was 4pm and I had a temptation to do one last run while I was at the parking lot at the closing time. I regret not doing it. It would have been fun. So, next year it will be easier and more fun.

I have this vision that Iran one day will get the recognition it needs to have. Maybe the Olympics... ok... no maybe I'm now dreaming. I'm selfish and don't really want too many people to know about it so we can keep it the way it is, but I think it is still one of the best unknown ! places in the WORLD.