Armenia

Armenia

ARMENIA TOURISM

” EXPLORE THE HIDDEN TRACK”
ARMENIA TOURISM
Armenia is a country located in the mountainous area of Caucasus, between Asia and Europe. It used to be a part of the Soviet Union. Among the first Christian civilizations, Armenia is known for its religious places like the Temple of Garni from ancient Greece and Rome, as well as the Etchmiadzin Cathedral from the 4th century, which is the Armenian Church’s main church. Khor Virap Monastery is an important place that people visit on a journey, near a big mountain called Mount Ararat. Mount Ararat is a mountain that used to be a volcano, and it is very close to the border with Turkey.

EXCHANGING MONEY IN ARMENIA:

In Armenia, it is against the law to use foreign money as cash. We suggest bringing some cash in either dollars or euros. In Armenia, there are lots of banks and places where you can exchange money. These can be found in big cities and towns.

FOOD IN ARMENIA:
Visiting Armenia and trying its delicious food is a great way to enjoy your long-awaited vacation.

Local food borrowed the most delicious aspects from nearby Eastern European and Middle Eastern cuisines. It has lots of vegetables, meat, fish, and dairy products. Lavsh is a popular local flatbread in Armenia. It is often paired with lamb, eggplant, and fresh herbs in many Armenian dishes. You can find restaurants from Armenia in almost all major cities around the world. However, you can only truly experience the amazing taste of fresh food, along with the beautiful sounds of a musical instrument called the duduk, the lovely scents of flowers from the mountains, the feeling of raindrops on your skin, and the unique flavor of cognac, by actually going to the country.

Experience the well-known khurjin, a traditional dish from the mountains. According to a local saying, shepherd’s wives used to make khurjin for their husbands when they went up the mountains for long periods of time.

If you really like meat, you should try these popular dishes: dolma, which is rice and meat stuffed in grape leaves and served with a creamy garlic sauce, khorovats, which is tasty grilled lamb, and basturma, which is dried and seasoned beef with spices.
When you eat ghapama, a pumpkin filled with rice, raisins, and dried fruit, it feels like Christmas. This is a very popular food in Armenia that is typically enjoyed during important events. If you enjoy eating sweet treats, you will be amazed by sujuk, a traditional local dessert made from walnuts wrapped in a paste made from dried fruits and gata, a delicious Armenian pastry.
The popular GUM market in Yerevan has a wide selection of nuts, dried fruit, vegetables, and different types of local cheese. It is also known for its welcoming atmosphere, which makes it a great place to experience the local food culture.

This is a tasty local wine made in Areni using techniques that have been used for a long time. Areni is a pretty area that smells like sweet wine and fruit.
One of the easiest ways to blend in with the local people is by trying the tasty Armenian Cognac, which is the most popular drink here. People who live in this country think that Noah was the first person to plant a grape vine here. The delicious flavor of the cognac will make your amazing trip to this beautiful country even more unforgettable.

Tourist Attraction Markets:
These markets are highly recommended as a tourist destination.

Vernisage
Are you searching for many different kinds of unique, handmade souvenirs. If so, Vernisage is the perfect place for you to go. There are many souvenir shops in Yerevan’s central streets, but the Vernisage market has a lot of different souvenirs in one place. They have jewelry, wood carvings, paintings, old Soviet era relics, rugs, and embroidery. Vernisage is open on weekends from 10am to around 6pm. It is located between Khanjyan and Nalbandyan streets, starting from the metro station on Nalbandyan and going all the way to Khanjyan. A small part of the market stays open during the week.

Pak Shooka
For many years, “Closed Market” has been a well-known place in Yerevan. In the past, it used to be a Soviet era food and grocery market. But now, it has been renovated and turned into a modern supermarket on the inside. The entrance door of this place is really amazing and worth visiting because it is a beautiful work of art.

General Trade Markets:
Do you want to buy new shoes, luggage, or fashionable clothes. These markets are the best places to find them. It’s a good idea to have a compass and map when visiting the markets in Yerevan. It can be a fun adventure, so bring your camera even if you don’t plan on buying anything. The Rasia and Ferdos markets are especially interesting.

Advice: When looking for shoes, try to find ones that are made locally. They have lovely leather, the prices are fair, and the quality is unbeatable.

DALMA: This new shopping center is just as good as any mall in the Western countries. No matter what you need, like shoes or a new suitcase, you should be able to find it here. Located on Tsitzernakaberd Highway, it is just outside the boundary of Yerevan city.
PETAK: is a building with two floors where people sell clothes, shoes, things for your home, and food. Petak is located at the back of Sourmaloo, which is a wholesale market off Arshakoonyats Street.

FERDOS: is a small and busy market that has many narrow and winding pathways, like a rabbit warren. But don’t be discouraged by any of this, in fact, all these features contribute to the uniqueness of this well-liked market. If you see something that is a good deal, don’t wait and buy it because you might not find the same place again. There are many places where you can buy clothes, shoes, and things for your home. Come and experience this lovely market that is similar to what you would find in the middle east. Ferdos is situated on Tigran Mets Street, between Hrabarak and Khanjyan. The entrance is small and not easy to see from the street, so be sure to ask so you don’t miss it.

HRAZDAN: Market is located near the Hrazdan Stadium. It is a building with many small shops inside. This market is one of the pricier ones in town, but it offers a wide variety of fashionable clothes and shoes that are worth checking out.
TASHIR: is a newer mall in Yerevan where people can go shopping. This place called ‘Goom’ has many different types of stores that you would usually find in a shopping mall. It has a supermarket, places to eat, fancy clothing and shoe shops, stores that sell school supplies, and jewelry stores. Tashir is located below Rasia on Tigran Mets.

VOSKI SHOOKA: means the place where you can buy and sell gold. This is a place where you can get custom-made gold jewelry or purchase items that are already made. It is on Khorenatsi St (formerly Marx St) and is close to Khanjyan St.
Yerevan has many things to offer when it comes to shopping.

TRANSPORTATION IN ARMENIA:
A very easy way to get around in Armenia is by using medium and large buses. Buses and mini busses are convenient and affordable options for getting around the city. You can see many interesting places while you travel. The cost of riding the bus or minibus in Yerevan is only 100 AMD.

Armenian Phrases for Tourists:
Armenian Phrases: Interesting facts about Armenian language
The Armenian language is thought to be one of the oldest in the world. It was made around 4,500 years ago. It is part of a big family called Indo-European and it is also its own special group. The language is very wealthy and attractive that experts compare it to French. In Armenian, there are about 120 basic vocabulary roots. These roots help in making very accurate translations from other languages. In the 5th century, the Bible was changed into Armenian. Experts still think highly of this translation because it is very accurate and closely resembles the original. They even refer to it as the best translation.
Armenians have their own special writing system called an alphabet. It was created in 405 by a priest and scholar named Mesrop Mashtots. The alphabet now has 39 letters.
A monument to the Armenian alphabet was built in the village of Artashavan on the southern side of Mount Aragats. It was constructed around ten years ago to celebrate the 1600th anniversary of writing being developed. This place is now very popular with tourists. Here, there is a large area with 39 stone sculptures that show the letters of the Armenian alphabet. There are also monuments of important Armenian thinkers. Many tours in Armenia include a visit to this attraction.

We suggest going to the Matenadaran Institute of Ancient Manuscripts after visiting Mesrop Mashtots. Here, you can view special old books written by Armenian historians and authors from around the world. Manuscripts are ancient writings, old documents that are kept for historical purposes. They can be copies of artistic works and books.

 

Armenian Phrases: Useful words and phrases
The Armenian language may appear difficult at first. But don’t give up. With a little practice, you will be able to learn the most important words and phrases. Don’t be afraid to speak with an accent. The people who live here really like it when visitors try to speak their language. They will try to cheer you on and help you. Here, you can learn everyday words and phrases that will be helpful when you travel.
Yes – Այո (ayo)
No – Ոչ (voch)
Thanks – Շնորհակալություն (shnorhakalutyun)
Please – Խնդրում եմ (khndrum em)
Sorry – Կներեք (knerek)
Hello – Բարեւ Ձեզ(barev dzez)
Good morning – Բարի լույս (bari luys)
Good afternoon – Բարի օր (bari or)
Good evening – Բարի երեկո (bari yereko)
Goodbye – Ցտեսություն (Tstesutyun)
How are you? – Ինչպես ես (inchpes es?), ոնց՞ես (vonc es? – informal)
I am well – Ես լավ եմ (yes lav em)
I do not speak Armenian – Ես չեմ խոսում հայերեն. (yes chem khosum hayeren)
As you have probably noticed, the Armenian word for “thank you” is very long. Therefore, in everyday speech, Armenians often use the word “merci”, borrowed from French.

Armenian Phrases: National expressions
The Armenian language has bright and interesting sayings that are difficult to translate into other languages. If we try to translate them word for word, it won’t make sense. Sometimes, they might even appear really hilarious or strange. Below you can learn about some of them. You will probably hear them quite often while traveling in Armenia.
You will often hear the word “jan”. Armenians use it to show they are being kind and caring to the person they are talking to. This word is difficult to translate into English, but it usually means “dear”. So don’t be surprised if you hear your name mentioned with the word “jan”.
Another way of showing care and understanding is by saying “tsavt tanem”, which means “I will take your pain for you. ” This phrase is used by Armenians to show support and empathy in any situation, big or small. Parents often use it with their small children.
When Armenians are surprised, upset, or frustrated, they often say “vai” loudly.
It’s a funny thing people say – “mrutt utem. ” It means that they want to eat your nice-looking face, but not in a serious way, more like saying you are sweet and beautiful. Usually, it’s something said to little kids.
The phrase “achkd luys” is used by Armenians to show happiness and congratulate someone on a good event in their life, like the birth of a baby or the arrival of a long-awaited family member. Basically, it means “light in your eyes”.

A Guide to Yerevan’s Nightlife
Paparazzi Club
Nightlife in Yerevan is an important part of the lives of its young residents. The city has lots of clubs, bars, pubs, and fun parties. All of these places are in the middle of the city, so if you don’t like one for some reason, you can easily walk to another one to make sure you have a great time in the capital of Armenia.
The Paparazzi Club is a group of people who enjoy photography and taking pictures of famous people.
The text is already simple and straightforward. It describes a type of establishment called a bar or nightclub, which is located in Europe and likely requires payment ($$) to enter or enjoy its services.
Paparazzi is a popular club in Yerevan that adds excitement to the city’s nightlife, particularly with its wild parties. If you want to see a busy and lively nightlife, you should come here after midnight when the place starts to get more and more crowded, and the party begins. Every night, DJs who are from both nearby and faraway places play dance music. Just remember that the club has specific rules about who can enter and you will need to pay to get in – men pay 2000 AMD (US$4) and women pay 1000 AMD (US$2).

Mezzo Jazz Club
A bar or nightclub in Europe that is quite expensive. Mezzo is a wonderful spot for people who prefer a calm and peaceful setting in the evenings. You can relax with a glass of wine while listening to live music. The place is very popular because it has a special design, friendly staff, and a comfortable atmosphere that locals and tourists enjoy. The many choices of food and drinks might confuse you, but if you’re not sure what to order, the staff will be there to suggest something. Also, you might have the chance to hear famous Armenian people hosting music events here.

Calumet Ethnic Lounge Bar
Calumet is a really old and popular club in town, so it would be hard to imagine Armenian nightlife without it. Please be aware that because this place is very popular and fills up quickly every night, it’s a good idea to make a reservation ahead of time. If you don’t like cigarette smoke, you should stay away from this place because it allows smoking. If not, you can come here to hear local rock bands play live music. You can also have a good time in a relaxed and friendly environment while drinking your favorite drink.

Kami Club
The inside of the place has cozy couches and big hanging lights. If you don’t have a special invitation card, you will need to meet certain requirements to be allowed inside.

Malkhas Jazz Club
This is a great spot for people who love jazz and want to have a calm night while listening to local jazz musicians. You can enjoy a drink or even a light meal here. The place has a set schedule every day with very successful and talented musicians who play a specific type of music. Since the place is very popular with local residents, it is recommended to reserve a table beforehand and expect to pay 2000 AMD (US$4) as an entrance fee.

The Sky Bar
The Sky Bar is a great place for people who enjoy spending their evenings in fancy places with beautiful views of the city. El Sky Bar is on the 7th floor of Yerevan Plaza Business Center. It has rooms inside and outside and often throws parties with cool DJs. If you go to Yerevan during the hot summer months, you should check out El Sky Bar. It’s a nice place to relax and have a cold drink on the rooftop.

A Tiki Bar
Do you like Latino dancing? If so, you should go to Tiki Bar. It’s one of the best Latino bars in town where you can dance all night and have a great time in Yerevan. The bar is a great place to unwind and relax after a long day of walking around the city. This place often has special nights where they focus on different types of dance like salsa, mambo, or bachata. If you don’t know how to dance any of these styles, you don’t need to worry because the staff will teach you the moves in just 30 minutes. The Tiki Bar is open all day and night, so there’s no need to rush. is a type of bar that has a tropical theme, often decorated with bamboo, thatch, and other items from Polynesian cultures. It serves tropical cocktails and offers a laid-back, relaxed atmosphere.

The Station Pub
Station Pub is a really nice place if you want to have a calm evening with a beer or another type of light alcohol drink.

Amigo Club
Amigo Club is a place with Caribbean vibes where you can dance to Latino music throughout the night. The place is liked by many locals because they serve delicious food and interesting drinks. Don’t forget, dancing is very important here. Nobody will let you just sit and watch others dance, even if you don’t think you can dance those dances. Professional dancers are available to demonstrate and instruct you in the fundamental movements. So, don’t be afraid or hesitant.