Despite a desire to get out and see the fields and the agricultural practices of the country, Riddle said he only got one opportunity when he visited a fig plantation. But he said he was amazed at the richness of democratic agriculture in the country, with elected organic leadership and a strong history of farmer’s cooperatives.

“I would have loved to get out into more fields,” he said. “I have to go back someday.”

Riddle did get some time for sightseeing in Tehran, the former capital city of Shiraz, and a visit to the ruined Persian capital of Persepolis. Along with visiting the former palace of the shah, Riddle experienced Tehran’s rich night-life, some of the country’s restaurants and bazaars, and was amazed at the integration of modern life and culture into the country’s traditions.

While women were required to cover their heads and segregation between the sexes still exists, Riddle said the women he encountered were inquisitive, friendly and didn’t face some of the restrictions of other Middle Eastern cultures. Riddle said they drove just as aggressively as the men on the roads and hold professions such as being a doctor or a journalist, and were just as interested to meet and speak with an American as the men.