Tours
I contacted an American guide with my query on visiting Iran cheaply, and having a more 'local' experience. She highly recommended this Iranian tour guide. At this point, I expect I will sign up to go with his guides, as long as the price is affordable for me. I expect to stay in Iran for 30 days (the limit for an American visa), so may combine 2 tours, and adjust them for my personal preferences. Oh, my gosh! I am already so excited for this trip!!!!!!!
Trekking tour: http://www.iranpersiatour.com/ToursAndPackages/Trekking.aspx
Isfahan / Shiraz / Yazd tour: http://www.iranpersiatour.com/RecommendedTour/PersiaInDepth.aspx
Trekking tour: http://www.iranpersiatour.com/ToursAndPackages/Trekking.aspx
Isfahan / Shiraz / Yazd tour: http://www.iranpersiatour.com/RecommendedTour/PersiaInDepth.aspx
I met a couple at a party, who visited Iran on their round-the-world trip a few years ago. They used this guide service
http://en.key2persia.com/home
http://en.key2persia.com/home