Because the north of larn is quite different from the south there are several differences in eating habits between the two areas Northern lran faces the Caspian Sea where we find the special fish from which the famous caviar is made which northerners love to eat. Because of the Mediterranean climate in the north rice is one of the major crops and it plays an important rote at the table in northern lran. It is served at all ceremonies. As a tradition northerners conduct a rice ceremony every year by putting rice twigs in the paddy and singing songs. In southern lran which faces the Persian Gulf a variety of seafoods especially the white fish make up the favorite dishes. Althought rice is important and a part of most meals the south is better known for its vegetables and fruits. Dates in particular are important and are a major export to Western countries