Armenia has a population of about 3 million people. Its capital, Yerevan is its largest city and is known for its beautiful architecture. Armenia has a predominantly Christian population, having been the first country to adopt Christianity. The majority of its population are Armenian and speak Armenian. The country has one of the lowest crime rates in the world.
Armenia lies in the subtropical zone, its climate is generally dry and sunny; the rainy season is from spring to early summer and the mountain areas receive a lot of snow during winter. Autumn is the best time to visit Armenia for its mild pleasant weather. Armenia has two international airports that support air travel to neighbouring countries. There’s an active rail line to and from Georgia and bus or car travel to Armenia is possible from Iran or Georgia. Within the country, most of the major roads in the city are in good shape and buses and taxis which are inexpensive are available.
Armenia is such a colourful nation with a rich history, with festivals and activities rooted in tradition, food and music, ensuring that there’s always an exciting activity to engage in. Some of them are:
- Dolma festival - the traditional Armenian food, Dolma, is a delicious meat dish. At the Dolma festival, Armenian cooks prepare the dish and compete for a prize.
- Honey and Berry Festival - the honey and berries festival takes place in the Shamshadin region, which is referred to as the centre of honey making in the country.
- Barbecue Festival – Horovats is a special Armenian barbecue recipe, it is served alongside a vegetable dish. Horovats is the national food of Armenia and the Barbecue Festival is celebrated in its honour.
- Areni Wine festival – this festival commemorates the ancient history of winemaking in Armenia which archaeological excavations found out has the oldest winery in the world.
For filmmakers and movie lovers, Golden Apricot Yerevan International Film Festival and the Re Animania Yerevan International Animation Film and Comics Art Festival are events of interest.
The country has many historical landmarks that attract an increasing number of tourists. Some of which include:
- Echmiadzin Cathedral, the religious centre of Armenians, the Echmiazdin cathedral was built to commemorate the adoption of Christianity in Armenia.
- Tatev Monastery, to get to this medieval monastery surrounded by amazing landscapes, you’ll take a ride in the famous wings of Tatev, which holds a record as one of the longest cable cars in the world.
- Khor Virap monastery, which is close to the Turkish border, is visited mostly to observe Mount Ararat, a national symbol of Armenia.
- Lake Sevan, considered to be one of the highest lakes in the world, it is a popular site for tourists.
- Hot Springs of Jermuk, Armenia has a number of thermal springs. Jermuk is popular for its healing mineral waters. Jermuk also has a number of spas.
- The Armenian Genocide Memorial, a museum to commemorate the country’s past
- Vernissage flea market, a weekend flea market where you can get the famous Armenian carpets, and other souvenirs.
- The Armenian alphabet park, built to celebrate the 1600th birthday of the Armenian letters and alphabets are a favourite for kids.
Hiking, Rock Climbing, Camping and Skiing are some of the activities that can be engaged in. As a country with so many tourist attraction,
Armenia has hotels and accommodations to serve its visitors, there are also organized tours within the country.
