Sitting at Imam Khomeini airport, the only thing I can think about is how the environment of the ancient Silk Road changed over the millennium. I have traveled from the beginning of the Road in China to its midway in Middle East, each border crossing requiring extensive visa application process, and each country requiring a local guide to translate lunch orders. It was not like this 2,000 years ago. Aside from the infamous conquerors, the road from Beijing to Venice was relative safe and well traveled. The connected countries traded goods, knowledge, religion, language, and culture. Today, the Silk Road is divided into distinct spheres of influences, each sphere trying to gain the upper hand in geopolitics. It was not until recently the countries tried to re-establish long forgotten relationships, but it is only due to
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