TEHRAN – Iran’s tourism body has decided to make hospitality the running theme of the 4th edition of the national festival of tourism partnership, which is scheduled to be held in September.

“The festival revolves around hospitality as its central theme that deals with local rituals and traditions and interactions between the communities of hosts and travelers,” Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts Organization Deputy Director Morteza Rahmani-Movahhed said on Sunday.

He made the remarks during a press conference on the event held at the CHTHO headquarters in Tehran, where the official poster of the event was unveiled as well. 

The official called for potential competitors to submit their works in the forms of photos, travelogues, films, and perspective essays while set June 21 as its deadline, saying the winners will be announced in September. 

The event will also touch upon Iranian food as a key factor in boosting the tourism industry. Last December, Rahmani-Movahhed said that the country can increase its share of the global gastronomy tourism, which makes an annual turnover of about $300 billion.

The Iranian cuisine, usually embellished with fragrant herbs, varies from region to region, however it principally accentuates freshness, deliciousness, and colorfulness.

Iranians are known for their love of noble hospitality, a nationwide phenomenon that astonishes travelers who appetite for spirited conversation, laughter and human connection.

Photo: CHTHO Deputy Director Morteza Rahmani-Movahhed (C) attends an unveiling ceremony for the poster of the 4th national festival of tourism partnership in Tehran on June 11, 2017.

AFM/MG