Christmas in Tehran

With improved relations, Iran's beaches, breathtaking Islamic architecture and incredible food could see the country be top of the 'must-visit' destinations of 2016.

Currently the perception many have of the country is of a super-conservative and religious population, living under restrictions on culture and general life, but as these images reveal the situation on the streets, especially for young people, is much more moderate and relaxed than these generalisations. 

And as nations across the world ready themselves for the festive holidays, Iranians have also been pictured selecting pre-decorated fake Christmas trees and shopping for last minute stocking fillers.

There are about 150,000 Christians living in Iran, most of them Armenians, who celebrate Christmas in churches and at home. As children are attracted by the tradition, many Muslim families have adopted some of the customs and buy presents for the kids as well as Christmas trees.

Travellers in the know are reaping the benefits of visiting this lesser explored Middle Eastern gem and the number of people arriving in the country for their holidays has already grown 12 per cent in each of the past two years. One such visitor was the French photographer Bernard Russo, who documented the life of young people in the country during his visit and later published the images 'The Hidden face of Iran', as well as showcasing a selection of images on his Instagram page. 

(dailymail.co.uk)