Tourism geography describes, interprets, and analyzes the organization and spatial structure of destinations as well as the mechanisms behind the formation of these spaces. Scientific recognition of the interactions between tourism and tourists, and the “natural” and “cultural” environments of a destination form the basis of a study of tourism geography. The ultimate goal of these studies is to manage the development process of a destination thoughtfully and based on the principles of sustainability. Therefore, the mission of tourism geography is to plan for building and developing tourism spaces, and rebuilding and restoring destinations in different stages of the life-cycle of a destination. Given the scientific and practical needs of students, experts, managers, and owners of tourism businesses, “Tourism Geography of Iran” has been formulated so as to include a set of theoretical foundations and practical points. Taking a systemic approach, the book considers Iran’s tourism system to be a fully integrated one, involving a number of different constituent parts which operate in a self-regulating and changeable manner.

Dr. Mahmoud Ziaee holds PhD in Geography and Urban Planning from University of Tehran, Iran. He serves as an Associate Professor in Tourism Management Department, Faculty of Management and accounting, University of Allameh Tabataba'i