By Hakob Kpryan
What makes Armenia an ideal travel destination for all?
Armenia What does this name stand for? A country, a state, nation, lifestyle, insight? Great history and culture? Unique art, fascinating landscape? huge diaspora, famous cognac? All items mentioned are probably parts and parcels of the answer to the question posed. On the other hand, none of the definitions is sufficient in itself to provide an answer. Armenia is a whole world of thousands of wonderful fragrances, colors and feelings. It is a world of open-hearted people and open doors, where guests are treated with happiness and joy as if they were a part of the family. It is a world of age-old wisdom and fresh ideas headed towards the future – an amazing world, Armenia is the poetry of eternity.
Tell us something that every traveller should know when travelling to Armenia? (An insider tidbit)
From millennia-old monasteries to crumbling cathedrals, Armenia is scattered with Christian places of worship: they don’t call this the “land of churches” for nothing. It’s impossible to identify the best basilica in the land, but one of our favorites is the 9th-century Tatev Monastery; a stunning building in an area of unremitting beauty.
Which are the most surreal places to visit when in Armenia?
One must visit the Tatev Monastery, Zorats Karer Observatory,
Khndzoresk cave city, Noravank Monastery, Tatev Cable car, Nagorno Karabakh, Forests of Dilijan and Garni basalt
Any essentials that one needs to carry when they travelling?
Carry a pair of proper walking shoes cause there’s a lot to explore on foot.
Can you tell us a little about the life of the locals?
Local people are very nice and hospitable. Most of the people work in agriculture and tourism. As the average income of the whole country is not high, most locals have a second profession.
That is why especially in the touristic areas one can see a lot of people selling their homemade products.
While hiking in the mountains, you can be invited to a farmer’s house for some drinks or snacks. It would be great if you could get some presents for these people as they don’t accept money as gratitude.
What are the local delicacies/drinks which one must try when in Armenia?
Homemade fruit Vodka, Ararat Brandy and Pomegranate wine are some lip-smacking drinks one must try when in Armenia.
What are things which one must buy when in Armenia?
One must buy handmade pottery, jewellery (gold, silver), scarves, brandy and homemade fruit vodka.
Which are the most romantic places to visit in Armenia?
Shaki waterfall is a beautiful place one must visit and other places like
Lake Sevan, Jermuk Waterfall and Tatev Complex are some romantic places one must visit.
What are the local festivals which one must come to attend in Armenia?
Yerevan wine days, Areni Wine festival, EPIC music fest
Barbeque festival and Beer festival are some festivals a traveller must visit.
The things guidebooks will not tell anyone about?
Yerevan is a City of Fountains,
Small fountains of spring water called “pulpulak” can be seen at every step in Yerevan, the capital of Armenia. These fountains have long been one of the most recognized symbols of the city. There are over 1,500 pulpulaks in Yerevan. The word “pulpulak” refers to the gurgling of the water flowing out of the fountain.
The water in Armenia is considered one of the most delicious and purest in the world. Indeed, the water here is supplied from the pure natural sources and it can be drunk straight from the tap without boiling, without fear for the health. Armenians have a special attitude to water: they honor this gift of nature, compose stories and legends about it.
According to you what is the best thing about Armenia?
Armenia is one of the world’s oldest countries, with the extensive history to prove it. Also one of the least explored places in the world.
Pack a DSLR Camera to capture your memories as Andaman is filled with unexplored places.
Q] One place only the locals would know.