E11 - Milad and Asal: Cultural Insights, Iran's Hidden Treasures and Couchsurfing Stories

Travelcast with Igar Garai

What if your journey could change not only your experiences but also your worldview? Join us as we welcome Milad and Asal, a vibrant couple from Iran now living in Germany, who share their remarkable stories of travel, hospitality, and cultural exchange. Milad recounts his thrilling days as a backpacker and hitchhiker across Iran, while Asal opens up about her life in Tabas and Tehran. Hear how their encounter with the Couchsurfing community reshaped their lives—Milad’s first guest from Belgium igniting his passion for hitchhiking and Asal’s overcoming cultural hesitations with inspiration from a Taiwanese guest.
Listen to Milad and Asal as they explore the cultural implications of Couchsurfing in the Middle East. Discover how this unique form of travel has challenged traditional norms and led to meaningful, cross-cultural connections. The episode delves into their personal experiences in Iran, such as meeting each other in Yazd and attending a diverse wedding in southern Iran. We also discuss the gender dynamics within the Couchsurfing community, offering insights into how these experiences have broadened their horizons and deepened their understanding of global hospitality.
Embark on a journey through the rich cultural diversity of Iran with Milad and Asal as your guides. They paint a vivid picture of the country's lesser-known treasures, from the southern region of Balochistan to the Kurdish and Lur areas. Experience the awe of witnessing the migration of Iran’s nomadic people and the thrilling adventure of trekking through the diverse climates of Iran, using traditional local gear. This episode is a heartfelt tribute to Iran’s beauty and complexity, offering listeners an authentic glimpse into the country’s vibrant cultural landscape.
Connect with Milad and Asal:

• Couchsurfing: https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/milad-ijad
• Asal's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asal_kavusi
• Asal's YouTube: https://m.youtube.com/@asalkavusi

Connect with me:

• Igar Garai Instagram: https://instagram.com/igargarai
• or be my CS guest: https://www.couchsurfing.com/people/igar-garai

Chapter

1. Couchsurfing Stories From Iran to Germany (00:00:00)

2. Couchsurfing Cultural Insights and Misconceptions (00:08:39)

3. Exploring Iran's Rich Cultural Diversity (00:25:07)

4. Iran's Diverse Trekking Experience (00:30:16)