Iran has been thrust into the spotlight this week following a US airstrike on three of its nuclear facilities . However, YouTuber Drew Binsky, who explored Iran before the recent tensions with Israel escalated, claims to have experienced a side of the country that Western media seldom portrays. During his road trip from the vibrant city of Shiraz to the Kurdish-dominated regions in the north, Drew encountered nothing but smiles and warm hospitality. He reminisced about pre-1979 Iran, which was a surprisingly westernised nation, often likened to Paris鈥攗ntil the last Shah was overthrown and Ayatollah Khomeini took control. That, Drew says, was the beginning of Iran being seen as a “scary” destination. However, Drew鈥攚ho has travelled to every country in the world鈥攃ounts Iran among his top picks and argues that it’s unjustly maligned. “In my experience, the media overlooks the warmth of Persian people,” he remarked. “Iranians are really, really friendly and hospitable. You can see wherever we go, people come up to you. They talk to you. They want to know your ideas about Iran, and they are very friendly.” The locals he spoke with were mostly meeting an American for the first time. An Iranian woman assured him that Americans would receive a hearty reception should they visit Tehran. “Iran is safe,” she insisted. “Don’t let the news cheat you. If you travel to Iran, it’s very economical, very safe, and people are very welcoming and nice to you. So you will have a nice stay in Iran. I can promise.” However, it’s undeniable that Iran has its darker aspects. As reported by the BBC, Iran executes more individuals than any other nation鈥攚ith the exception of China鈥攁nd homosexuality is prohibited. The country’s censorship is considered among the most severe globally. The UK Foreign Office advises against all travel to Iran, warning that British nationals face a significant risk of “arrest, questioning or detention.” The entire country is categorised as a “red zone”, with the government urging Brits already in Iran to “consider your presence there and the risks you take by staying”. Despite these warnings, Drew remains an ardent admirer of the country and its breathtaking sights. One local, who invited Drew into his home for a traditional Iranian meal, expressed that many Iranians understand there’s no real reason for fear between Iranians and Americans. He stated: “All the problems are between governments.” This sentiment was echoed by another Iranian man Drew spoke to, who said: “People are people everywhere… the problem is between our governments.” While one individual suggested to Drew he might be the only American in Iran, the country’s tourism sector has experienced a significant surge in recent years. In 2019, Iran was ranked as the world’s third fastest-growing tourist destination, and by 2023, the country’s tourism had grown by 43%, attracting around six million foreign visitors.