Iran’s map resembles a cat whose head aims for the northwest while its tail reaches the border of Pakistan to the southeast. Tabriz is situated right at the head of the country near Urmiah Lake. But Tabriz’s significance as the head of Iran isn’t just figurative. It is one of the largest and most populated cities in Iran and one of its main industrial and economic hubs. However, Tabriz isn’t all about gigantic factories with towering flue-gas stacks and markets seething with people. It also boasts one of the most bountiful natural surroundings in Iran. Lofty mountainous heights, dense green jungles, expansive lakes, ferocious rivers and even hot sandy deserts are among Tabriz tourist attractions. Tabriz had been chosen as the capital of Iran several times during its ancient history. As a result, hundreds of royal buildings and monuments were built in the city. However most of these palatial edifices had been destroyed in a number of horrendous earthquakes. But still many magnificent establishments attest to the former glory of this once capital of Iran. Among Tabriz's points of interests is Tabriz Grand Bazaar, the largest covered bazaar in the world and a UNESCO heritage site. A city as prosperous and multifaceted as Tabriz must include numerous hotels, hostels and guesthouses and Tabriz accommodation options are not few. Tabriz has four five-star hotels and more than a dozen four and three-star hotels most of which offer online booking for their prospective guests. Most of the three-star hotels and guesthouses in Tabriz are reasonably cheap in comparison with other major cities in Iran. Also, as with other hotels in Iran, Tabriz international hotels have English speaking staff who eagerly help the guests with their every need.