The first part of his journey consists of mountain crossings in terrible weather. In northern Persia they depend on mountain huts for overnight shelter. Cold, vermin and rats are all taken in stride. On one icy pass one of the pack horses (they rent animals as they go) slides to the edge of a precipice and clings by the front legs only to tumble 300 feet. Not to worry. With difficulty they go to recover their goods and find the tough little horse up and grazing on bushes.

In the remainder of Persia he visits cities such as Teheran, sees some beautiful landscapes, meets characters and stays in some degree of luxury at diplomatic posts (British rule at this time) or Anglo telegraph offices/homes.

The author is not what you'd call an expert on antiquities or art but loves a good bazaar and never passes up the chance to visit one in every town and village. He also comments on people and their lives (typically ruling class English but not hideous), agriculture, produce and crafts.