10 Things You Must Know Before Moving to Bahār (No Fluff, Just the Real Stuff)

okay, so you're thinking about moving to bahār? good call. it's not exactly a city that pops up on every "top places to live" list, but that's kinda what makes it interesting. i've been here for a few months now, and let me tell you-this place has layers. like an onion. or a really complicated cake.

1. rent is weirdly affordable (but not in a good way)

i found a decent one-bedroom for about 2 million tomans a month. sounds cheap, right? until you realize the average salary here is like 10 million tomans. so yeah, you're spending 20% of your income on rent. but hey, at least it's not tehran.

2. the weather is a mood swing

one day it's sunny and 25°c, the next it's raining cats and dogs. and then there's the wind. oh god, the wind. it's like living in a hair dryer that someone forgot to turn off. pack layers. and a good umbrella. and maybe a helmet.

3. the food scene is underrated

you won't find a ton of fancy restaurants, but the local kababs? chef's kiss. and the bread. holy moly, the bread. fresh out of the oven, it's like a hug for your mouth. check out this local spot if you're into that sort of thing.

4. public transport is a joke

buses are unreliable, taxis are overpriced, and there's no metro. you'll probably end up walking a lot. which, honestly, isn't the worst thing. it's a good way to get to know the city. just watch out for the potholes. they're like mini craters.

5. the people are genuinely nice

iranians have a reputation for hospitality, and bahār is no exception. strangers will invite you for tea. shopkeepers will give you discounts just because. it's weird at first, but you'll get used to it. and then you'll miss it when you leave.

6. internet is slow but manageable

streaming netflix in 4k? not gonna happen. but for browsing, emails, and the occasional zoom call, it's fine. just don't expect to be the next big twitch streamer.

7. nightlife is basically non-existent

if you're into clubbing or late-night bars, you're out of luck. but there are plenty of cafes that stay open late. and they serve some killer desserts. this one is my go-to.

8. the job market is tough

unless you're in tech or education, finding a job can be a challenge. most people here work in agriculture or small businesses. if you're a digital nomad, you might be better off working remotely.

9. the scenery is underrated

bahār is surrounded by mountains, and the views are stunning. especially at sunrise. it's the kind of place that makes you want to go for a hike, even if you're not the outdoorsy type.

10. it's safe (but stay aware)

crime rates are low, and i've never felt unsafe walking around at night. but like anywhere, it's good to stay aware of your surroundings. and maybe don't flash your iphone 15 in the middle of the bazaar.

overheard gossip

"bahār is where tehran goes to retire," said one local. "it's quiet, it's cheap, and the air doesn't taste like smog."

final thoughts

moving to bahār isn't for everyone. it's not flashy, it's not trendy, and it's definitely not for people who need constant stimulation. but if you're looking for a slower pace of life, a tight-knit community, and a place that feels like home, it might just be perfect for you.

brown sand under blue sky during daytime