Armenia 101: The Ultimate Guide from Visa, Flights, Sim Card, Accommodation, and Things to See | Filipino Residents in UAE

When you think of the South Caucasus Region, what do you imagine? 

Do you see mountainous terrain, distinct architectural styles, rich cultural heritage, and diverse and striking landscape?

That’s exactly what Armenia looks like. This country perfectly balances gorgeous sceneries, welcoming people, and various activities to enjoy.

In this article, I will tell you everything you need to know about traveling to Armenia from UAE, starting from visa, flights, accommodation, tourist spots, and more.

What are you waiting for? Continue reading to find out.

Do you need a VISA to Armenia?

Here’s some great news for us Filipinos exploring Armenia from the UAE: the country has made it easier than ever to visit, with smooth visa regulations.

And guess what? If you hold a valid resident card issued by GCC member states, including the UAE, you can obtain a visa on arrival at the Armenian border— that easy!

That’s exactly what made our trip to this picturesque, mountainous country so smooth and enjoyable!

For more details, be sure to check out the Armenian website here: https://www.mfa.am/en/visa/

Curious to know more about our journey to Armenia? Keep reading!

Flying to Armenia from Dubai

Before going to the airport, check that you have packed everything you need.

Depending on when you are going to Armenia, make sure that your clothing is fit for the current season. The country experiences distinct weather patterns, from hot summers to cold winters and everything in between.

When traveling to Armenia, it’s best not to forget to bring your duly signed visa form. Printing it can make your immigration process easier. Doing so helped us save time in the immigration line. Just be cautious not to lose it like we did while on the road.

We drove to Abu Dhabi airport from Dubai at midnight to catch our 5 am flight. Somewhere along the way, we lost our printed Armenian visa form. We needed to find an open establishment to reprint it. Luckily, we found one still open along the road. 

My friends and I arrived at the Abu Dhabi airport after a half-hour drive from our meeting place in Dubai. For this trip, we flew with Wizzair at a ticket price of 1,168 AED per person roundtrip without any add-ons. I travel light using my backpack and a body bag for my camera equipment.

We had already checked in online with the airline before reaching the airport, so we were able to enter quickly without further questions from immigration. 

We exchanged Armenian drams at the airport, but I don’t suggest you do this since the rates are typically less favorable compared to other places like banks. Even our local tour operator in Armenia suggested to us that it is better to have currency changed in USD and then have it exchanged for drams in Armenia because the rates are not good at the airport. 

So far, I’ve traveled with Wizzair a couple of times going to different countries, and haven’t had any bad experiences. I know it’s not the best airline, but it’s suitable if you’re on a budget. Our flight to Armenia with Wizzair was smooth, and it only took us 3 hours and 30 minutes to reach Zvartnots Airport, the main and largest airport in Armenia. 

We made sure to be the first of the people lining up at the immigration upon arrival so we could save time at the visa counter. You will only need to show your filled-out visa form, passport, and pay. 

Since we already have a printed and duly filled visa form, we easily managed to get through to the immigration officer. Preparedness with the required documentation always facilitates a smooth and efficient process at the immigration checkpoint.

ARMENIAN SIM CARD

After a smooth 20-minute processing of our visa on arrival at the immigration, we proceeded to buy one local SIM card which cost 5000 AMD (45 AED) at Zvartnots airport. We divided this amount into three, and we only paid 1,666 AMD (15 AED) each for the SIM card. We turned on the Wi-Fi hotspot so the three of us could share the WiFi connection anytime, anywhere.

Note: Armenia offers the Yerevan Pass, the official city pass which includes a free SIM card! Getting the Yerevan Card City Pass is seriously amazing for discount lovers and freebie hunters. Not only does it include a free SIM card, but it also hooks you up with a free taxi ride from the airport to downtown via GG Taxi. And get this: the SIM card provides you with a daily 200 MB allowance for each day you keep your Armenian SIM card active. How cool is that?

Check Yerevan Pass and how to get it here : Yerevan Pass

If you want to know the complete guide on Armenian E-Visa, check it out here: How to Get an Armenian Visa

Accommodation

We booked the SD David Hotel on Booking.com. This three-star hotel is in Yerevan, which is the capital of Armenia.

We booked the Junior Suite Room for 16,800 Armenian Drams (AMD). This is already for three days and two nights (3D2N) for three people, excluding breakfast.

This hotel is at a prime location, as a metro station is within walking distance and is only 15 – 20 minutes drive from the airport.

We had modest expectations for this hotel given its budget-friendly nature. While it wasn’t lavish, it adequately served its purpose for our stay. The staff was generally okay and helpful upon our arrival, although I would hesitate to personally recommend this hotel.

Our experience was marred by several issues: the cancellation of our airport pickup on the day of our arrival citing a driver accident, the unexpected unavailability of the breakfast included in our online booking upon our arrival, the noises from outside that disturbed my sleep in the middle of the night, and the smell of cigarettes wafting into our room.

While we understand and appreciate the reimbursement for the services we missed out on, we were disappointed by the lack of communication regarding the closure of the reception’s main door and the absence of a 24-hour front desk.

If you watched my vlogs on YouTube, you’d know about what happened on our second day. But if you haven’t, I’ll tell you the story all the same.

When we were about to go on our second-day tour, we found out that the main door of this hotel was locked, and we didn’t know what to do. We realized that there was no 24/7 front desk and the hotel also failed to inform us about this.  You should ask about this when checking in to your accommodation in Armenia.

I’m not sure if this is a cultural thing, but regardless, this is something you should ask the reception so you won’t have any experience of being locked in (like we had).

Top Tourist Attractions

Garni Temple

Located in the village of Garni in Kotayk Province of Armenia, Garni temple is a testament to the country’s rich pagan history. 

This is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it is easy to see why. The landscape is dotted by one central temple and ancient ruins and structures. The stairs are also made of weathered stone, a testament to the temple’s endurance to the passing of time. It was built by King Tiridates I of Armenia and is constructed primarily of basalt stones. 

Garni temple was built in the 2nd century to worship the God Mihr, the pagan god of light and the sun. It is also believed to have served as a place of royal summer retreat and a place of worship to other Armenian gods.

The road leading to Garni temple is very picturesque, and I enjoyed the overlooking view it offered of the Gegham mountains.

We also saw a lot of friendly vendors offering complimentary tastes of their delicious local treats.

What attracts me most is the temple’s architectural beauty, set amidst the awe-inspiring presence of the magnificent Gegham Mountains. Strategically positioned upon a promontory above high cliffs and surrounded by walls, it functions as a powerful fortress.

Entrance tickets are around 1,500 AMD, which is around 13-14 AED.

Geghard Monastery

Dating back to as early as the 4th century, Geghard Monastery, a UNESCO Heritage Site, stands as further evidence of Armenia’s rich history. It is one of the most important religious sites in Armenia, renowned for housing relics attributed to Jesus Christ, including a fragment of the Holy Lance that pierced Christ’s side during the crucifixion.

A distinctive feature of Geghard Monastery is that many of its structures are partially carved into the surrounding rock cliffs. This architectural style is typical of Armenian medieval monasteries. 

As soon as you step into Geghard Monastery, you can feel the spiritual vibe all around. The wall carvings depicting biblical scenes and stories are so detailed, that they draw you in. And guess what? I was totally surprised to find a flowing stream inside the monastery! It’s such a cool and unexpected feature.

If you plan to climb the stairs outside the monastery, remember that the steps are steep when descending, and the railings may shake when you hold onto them. Therefore, it’s advisable to walk slowly.

The Tsaghkadzor Ski Resort

This place is a must-go if you are visiting Armenia in winter. This is the winter wonderland of the country, and there are a lot of things to do aside from skiing.

When we visited, we decided to try the ropeway experience, which cost around 3,000 AMD per person. Getting on and off the ride was a bit risky; in fact, I hurt my butt while getting off the seat because you need to jump off. 

However, I thoroughly enjoyed the views from the top. If you visit in winter, make sure to wear warm clothing, as the high winds and extremely low temperatures nearly froze my hands!

If you want to catch the peak skiing season at Tsaghkadzor, make sure to visit from mid-December to April. Just remember that there are times when skiing is not available because there is not enough snow.

Even then, we saw that you can ride quad bikes around, and I’m sure you will still have a fun time! 

Lake Sevan and Sevanavank Monastery

Before heading to Lake Sevan, we stopped by the Sevanavank Monastery. However, as we began to climb up, we encountered a dog acting as if it were guarding the monastery. Out of fear, we decided not to continue climbing. Instead, we went straight to Lake Sevan since it was getting late anyway.

Lake Sevan is considered the “jewel” of Armenia, providing low-cost electricity, tourism, and 90% of the fish and 80% of crayfish catch in Armenia.

When we arrived in Lake Sevan, it was undoubtedly one of the most beautiful landscapes in Armenia. We were lucky to witness the golden hour and to enjoy the lake without the usual crowd.

I can still remember the lake’s clear waters, and how the air was so crisp and refreshing. Make sure to not miss going here when you visit Armenia.

Khor Virap Monastery

Located in the Ararat Plain, Khor Virap monastery is near the border between Armenia and Turkey.

Overlooking Mt. Ararat, Khor Virap monastery is one of the most visited pilgrimage sites. Khor Virap is where Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned in the dungeon, but he eventually led to the transformation of Armenia into a Christian nation.

The view of Mt. Ararat here is also very picturesque, I even thought it was Mt. Everest because of the ice caps on the top of the mountain. 

While it may look stunning on your Instagram, this mountain is not only a symbol of Armenian pride but also holds significant spiritual importance. It is believed to be the landing place of Noah’s Ark and is revered as a holy mountain.

Khor Virap Monastery is gorgeous all year round! We went there as early as possible to beat the crowd. We didn’t regret visiting the place before the sun was up. How lucky we were to witness the magical beauty surrounding the place and snap tons of awesome photos!

Did you know? Armenia was the first country in the world to be declared a Christian nation, and this happened in the year 301.

Noravank Monastery

Also called “The New Monastery”, Noravank Monastery was built in the 13th century and established by the prominent architect and sculptor Momik.

It is best known for its two-story Surb Astvatsatsin Church, which translates to ‘the Holy Mother of God’.

Because of its unique structure and architectural design, it has been hailed as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2002.

If you want to visit Noravank Monastery and its nearby iconic sites like Khor Virap and Areni, I suggest that you take an organized or private tour, as public transportation to these places can be a little challenging. 

Noravank Monastery is located 122 km from Yerevan, and having a private car or joining an organized tour can save you time and hassle. Besides, many tours offer very reasonable prices, similar to the one we experienced.

Areni-1 Bird’s Cave

If you want archaeological sites, you should not miss the Areni-1 cave complex. 

Located in the Areni village in southern Armenia, this cave holds the earliest known winery in the world and the oldest leather shoe dating as far back as 4,000 BC.

According to our guide Hasmik, trade is evident as the ancient Silk Road passed by the area.

Some pathways to the cave are very narrow, so make sure to pay attention and watch out for low-hanging rocks. Also, remember to not take pictures with a flash to avoid disturbing the bats.

The entrance fee for the cave is around 1,000 AMD if you choose to go without a tour guide, and 1,500 AMD if it is with a tour guide.

I also noticed a hotel that was near the cave complex, but it was not yet operating when we came.
Please take note: Bring coins in case you need to use the restroom, as they charge 100 AMD for access. Additionally, be aware if you have allergies or claustrophobia, as you will pass through narrow and dusty areas when entering the cave.

Areni Wine Factory

Built-in 1994, the Areni Wine Factory boasts of being the oldest and most well-established wine facility in the area.

There are four types of tour prices that they offer:

Inclusions	Prices
Tasting only (3 types of wine: white, rose, red)	1,000 AMD
Guided tour and wine tasting	1,750 AMD
Reserved wines	3,000 AMD
Full package (tour and 6 types of wines)	4,500 AMD

We joined the guided wine tour and the wine tasting of three types of wine. Taking a video and pictures of the wine tour is not allowed but it takes around 10-15 minutes, depending on how many questions you ask the guide.

What I learned is that the techniques have been passed down from one generation to another, preserving the knowledge of producing the best quality wine.

During the wine tasting, we had white, rose, and red wine. I liked that they also served cheese and bread for pairing. 

They also taught us that before drinking the wine, it is important to swirl it first to release its aroma and take a few sniffs to savor its smell.

My personal favorite is the rose wine. I think it is very well-balanced, but it is not overly sweet. The acidity is just fine for me, and it gives an overall refreshing and crisp finish.

The white wine is a bit too strong, but it also has a nice note of fruitiness and I think the red wine has the strongest taste out of the three.

Make sure that you have eaten something before trying out the wine tasting, as indulging in Armenian wine or any alcohol without a solid meal beforehand can quickly lead to feeling lightheaded or intoxicated, as we experienced when we didn’t eat a proper meal at the start of our day.

Zvartnots Cathedral

Located near Vagharshapat, Zvartnots Cathedral or the Zvartnots Cathedral Complex is a very unique structure that should not be missed.

Its unique circular exterior structure is uniquely medieval Armenian architecture, and the whole place has blended Armenian, Byzantine, and Persian elements.

The ruins have an octagonal dome, and it was decorated in the shape of a Greek cross. The cathedral stood for 320 years before collapsing in the 10th century, and historians ruled that the most possible explanation was an earthquake.

Zvartnots Cathedral Complex is considered a UNESCO World Heritage site too.

Although we visited during the middle of winter, people say that the best time to visit is during spring (April to June) or during autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild and pleasant. But also, it is highly recommended to visit it regardless of the season. 

By the way, this spot doesn’t offer much shade, so I suggest bringing a hat or umbrella if you’re visiting in the summer. If you’re lucky, you might catch a trio of incredible singers belting out some local folk tunes. Plus, you might just catch a glimpse of Mount Ararat in the backdrop, although unfortunately, we didn’t get to see it because the sky wasn’t clear.

Hovhannavank Monastery

This is one of the most memorable tourist spots for me, as this monastery stands on top of a deep gorge carved by the Kasagh River.

Situated in the village of Ohanavan, Aragatsotn province, the Hovhannavank Monastery is yet another testament to the strong Christian faith of Armenia. It is said that this is dedicated to John the Baptist.

This monastery has the elements of the Gandzasar style, which features an umbrella-shaped dome, cruciform floor plan, and a large cross on one of the church walls.

It is amazing that even after hundreds of years, the walls and interior of the place are well-preserved. When I went inside, I immediately felt at peace even though it was mostly empty. I felt the solemn spiritual atmosphere of this place. 

Once you go outside, you are rewarded with stunning views of the large gorge. I was so amazed by the dramatic scenery of this place, especially the view of the gorge and nearby Mt. Ara. So dramatic!

Saghmosavank Monastery

After a short 15-minute journey from Hovhannavank, we reached another beautiful monastery.

A venerable hub of religious education and devotion, the Saghmosavank Monastery used to be the center of religious study in Armenia. Its name directly translates to “Monastery of Psalms”.

Legends say that this is the monastery of the priest who saved Armenia from a violent ruler named Tamerlane. The priest turned the Armenian prisoners into doves and released them to a narrow church window, where they flew back to their homes and returned to being people once they landed.  

This place is incredibly beautiful, particularly the panoramic views it offers of the surrounding landscapes, such as Hovanavank Monastery. Both locations share a similar grandeur with their expansive gorges. However, it is here, at the gorge of Saghmosavank, where I truly feel an intimate connection. Moreover, it was here that I witnessed an Armenian wedding for the first time, an experience worth cherishing!

If you are looking for a spiritual place for contemplation and reflection, then this place is a must-visit!

Armenian Alphabet Valley

This place is also a 10-minute ride from the Saghmosavank Monastery. It is located at the bottom of the Aragats Mountain and it is made to celebrate the 1,600th year of the Armenian alphabet.

It contains 39 giant architectures and can be a great way to learn Armenian letters.

I took a picture with the first letter of my name and found a 50 AMD coin here!

Aragats Mountain

Last, but not least, our countryside adventure tour ends at Aragats Mountain. It has four peaks, and the northern summit can go as high as 4,090 meters above sea level, or about 13,420 feet.

It was around 5:30 pm when we reached this place, our guide brought us to the bottom of the mountain, and I can say that it is a vast snowy playground during winter.

It was cold, but my friends and I still managed to enjoy ourselves playing in the snow. While we were having fun, our driver warned us not to wander too far because of the presence of snow bears.

I think we were only there for about 20 minutes because we couldn’t stand staying long due to the extreme cold. 

What to See in Yerevan in One Day

Going to Armenia for just a day or two? Why not visit its capital city Yerevan and see what it has to offer?

In this section, I will list down all the tourist spots you can visit in Yerevan in under one day. Read more to find out!

Swan Lake

The swan lake is a small garden that is located south of Freedom Square, which is at the heart of Yerevan.

It is named to honor Tchaikovsky’s ballet, Swan Lake, and because it is near the opera house as well.

This artificial lake becomes a cool spot to sit nearby during the warm summer months and becomes an ice skating rink during the winter.

When we arrived at this location around 7 am, the surroundings were still shrouded in darkness. Only a few stores were open, and there were no people around yet. The night before, as we passed by this place, many adults and kids were enjoying ice skating.

Opera House

The opera house, also called the Armenian National Academic Theater of Opera and Ballet, is the primary venue for artistic performances in the country.

Since its opening in 1933, the Opera House has performed more than 200 different operas and ballets by Armenian, Russian, and Western European composers. 

It has two concert halls: the Aram Khatchaturian Concert Hall with 1,400 seats and the Alexander Spendiaryan Opera and Ballet National Theatre with 1,200 seats.

When we arrived here around seven in the morning, it was still very dark as it was winter. If you want to see the opera house and even watch some shows, I advise you to visit during spring or summer.

From Northern Avenue, through Swan Lake, and finally to the Opera House, we simply walk to reach this place located on Tumanyan Street, at the heart of Yerevan. It’s also just a few minutes’ stroll from the Cascade and Republic Square.

We felt safe while walking because police officers were patrolling the area in the wee hours.

Cascade Plaza

Cascade Plaza, commonly known as The Cascade, is one of the famous tourist spots in Yerevan. It has five hillside terraces that overall add to 572 steps, which is the height of a 13-story building.

This huge limestone staircase goes up the hill, while I was going up, I was amazed by all the artistic and cool sculptures and fountains. 

On top of the hill, which is called the Monumental Terrace, stands a 118-m tall structure to commemorate the 40th Anniversary of Soviet Armenia.

There is also a museum inside where you can see more art. This is the Cafesjian Center for the Arts and it houses several artwork pieces of the museum founder, Gerard Cafesjian, and other world-renowned artists.

If you are not a fan of climbing stairs, you will be delighted to hear that they also have an elevator. You can still enjoy panoramic views of Yerevan without breaking a sweat.

Visiting the Cascade Plaza is a must, more so if you can catch the plaza filled with water flowing through the cascades. 

Arriving here very early allowed me to relish the views of the cityscape and Mount Ararat in solitude, with no one else around except for us, as the sun was rising.

Mother Armenia

Mother Armenia is one of the tallest statues in the whole of Yerevan. It stands at 22 meters, or approximately 72 feet located in the Victory Park of Yerevan.

Mother Armenia is the female personification of the country, and her statue overlooks Victory Park. 

She symbolizes peace through strength, depicting the strength of Armenia as women who took up arms to help their husbands during wars.

Next to the statue is an eternal fire where you can warm up during cold evenings, especially in winter. This is one of the outdoor devices installed to provide warmth in public spaces.

There’s also a beautiful spot here where I like to chill and contemplate. If you want to watch the sunrise while overlooking the view of Yerevan City and Mount Ararat, this is also one of the good places to be. Victory Park is also nearby; it’s just a short walk away.

Victory Park

Victory Park, nestled atop the Cascade in Yerevan, is not only a vast green expanse but also a poignant tribute to the Armenian soldiers who bravely fought in World War II under the Soviet Union.

Here, amidst lush alleys and a serene pond, stands the majestic Mother of Armenia statue, a symbol of resilience and strength. The park also hosts a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the nation’s wartime history. 

With its tranquil atmosphere and ample open spaces, Victory Park serves as a cherished gathering spot for locals and a peaceful retreat for visitors alike. There were also police officers patrolling.

When we arrived here, I felt a bit apprehensive due to the dogs roaming and barking in the vicinity. However, despite my initial unease, I soon realized that they were harmless and simply part of the local scenery. Nevertheless, encountering them added an unexpected element of adventure to our visit.

St. Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral

Built to celebrate the 1,700th anniversary of Christian adoption in Armenia, St. Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral.

The belfry tower consists of 30 arches and a beautiful courtyard is located at the entrance. When I entered the cathedral, I remembered the churches back in the Philippines and their solemnity.

Sadly, recording videos are not allowed inside, but was really in awe of the elegantly designed stairs and the magnificence of the whole complex.

Did you know? St. Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral, also known as Yerevan Cathedral, is the largest Armenian Apostolic cathedral in the world.

Vernissage Market

Yerevan Vernissage is an open-air market located along Aram Street and Buzand Street, so near Republic Square.

To tell you a short history about this beautiful and unique market, it was formed by Armenian artists during the 1980s who started to display their artworks.

Now, Vernissage Market stands out as the ideal destination for purchasing souvenirs and mementos to commemorate your trip to Armenia.

Examples of the things you can buy in the market are:

• Handcrafted souvenirs: Traditional Armenian ceramics, pottery, wooden carvings, rugs, scarves, and embroideries.
• Armenian artworks: Paintings, drawings, and sculptures depicting Armenian history, culture, and nature.
• Jewelry: Silver and gold pieces with precious stones, featuring Armenian designs like the eternity symbol.
• Antiques and collectibles: Vintage items, Soviet-era memorabilia, antique coins, and unique collectibles.
• Handmade crafts: Wooden boxes, musical instruments, leather goods, and metalwork items.
• Traditional Armenian musical instruments: Duduk, tar, and kanun.
• Local food products: Dried fruits, nuts, spices, honey, and baklava
• Clothing and accessories: Traditional costumes, modern apparel with Armenian motifs, hats, bags, and shawls.

These are just a few examples of the diverse range of products you can find at the Vernissage Market in Yerevan, offering something for every taste and interest. If I had more space in my backpack, I would have purchased items like the crochet stuffed toys and chessboard.

The market is open daily, with a greater number of vendors on weekends. I suggest visiting early, as navigating the narrow aisles becomes challenging later in the day. 

While many vendors may not speak English, they are friendly and not overly aggressive.

One of my best memories too was when we met this nice lady selling handmade stuff toys. She was talking to her son on the phone and she introduced us. Such is the warmth of the Armenian people.

Note: Credit cards are not accepted, but prices are generally reasonable, and bargaining is possible. The fridge magnets available here range in price from 200 AMD to 1000 AMD. The one I purchased cost 1000 AMD.

Republic Square

Republic Square is considered one of the architectural highlights of Yerevan. Surrounded by important government and cultural buildings, it is considered as a focal point of Armenia’s politics and history.

During the Soviet period, this square was called the Lenin Square, and Soviet parades and celebrations were held here. Now, it is Yerevan’s “most important civic space”.

During Independence Day, it becomes a focal point where thousands of Armenians gather and celebrate their day.

Here are the five buildings that you can find around the Republic Square:

• Government House #1
• History Museum of Armenia
• Armenia Marriott Hotel
• Government House #2
• Trade Unions and Communications Building

What catches my eye at Yerevan Republic Square is that super cool pink and yellow neoclassical building with a giant clock. It’s like a pop of color in the heart of the city!

Genocide Museum

If you want to know the history of Armenia, even its darkest bits, then you need to go to the Genocide Museum.

The museum is located on one of the three hills along the Hrazdan River. When we arrived at the museum, we felt the somber atmosphere.

As we walked through the park, we came across a 100-meter wall that bore witness to the tragic massacres and deportations inflicted upon towns and villages during World War I by the Ottoman Empire.

I think it is really important to remember the history of one’s country, regardless if it is painful or not. 

Acknowledging the past completely lets us learn where we come from, and going to the Genocide Museum gave us a deeper understanding of the roots of Armenia.

Best Places to Eat

One of the best things about visiting another country is discovering its cuisine. From high-end restaurants to casual eateries, you will find a lot of options in Armenia. 

During our visit, we made an effort to stick to our budget while also indulging in the privilege of sampling various Armenian foods.

Read more to find out about our food adventure!

SAS Foodcourt

SAS Foodcourt is one of the famous foodcourts in Yerevan. If you have been looking for a budget-friendly way to try Armenian cuisine and other delights, definitely go here.

Our tour operator introduced us to this place. When we went there and walked around all the stalls, we saw them offering a diverse selection of flavors and cuisines.

We tried their famous shawarma and roasted pork on our first day. Just remember that Armenia is mostly serving pork in their cuisine. Remember that if you have dietary restrictions.

SAS Foodcourt has been a culinary haven, and it also has comfortable and spacious seating. So much so that we came back for it during our last night in Armenia.

The main attraction of this place is the skilled bakers who craft lavash bread in a traditional clay oven called a tunir. Visitors can witness the artistry and expertise of these bakers as they meticulously prepare the dough and bake it to perfection in the warmth of the clay oven.

Here are our honest reviews of the foods we tried on our 2nd day at Sas Foodcourt:

• Roasted Pork = reminds me of the liempo in the Philippines. Very tasty! 
• Vegetable fried rice = this dish reminded us of the fried rice in the Philippines and costs around 1,300 AMD in Armenia. What makes it unique to me is the addition of quail eggs
• Dumplings = are larger than what I’m accustomed to, and they are filled with flavorful minced beef.
• Scrambled Eggs With Tomato =similar to our country’s dish (kinamatisang itlog).

For three people, the above-mentioned meal costs around 3,006 AMD or 27-28 AED. The servings are also big, so if you want, you can always share it with a friend.

Note: If you think you need more cash, the SAS Foodcourt has an ATM and a money changer. Our guide even told us that they offer a better currency exchange than the one at the airport.

Lavash Restaurant

After trying out a budget-friendly food establishment, we decided to take a chance and dine at a slightly more expensive restaurant, one of the best in Yerevan.

This restaurant has a farm-to-table concept and was recommended to us again by our local tour operator. 

When you arrive at the Lavash Restaurant, you will find that it is a favorite of the locals. And if the locals love it, then you can trust that it is delicious food.

We tried different types of omelets, and we were surprised that they had different flavors. I tried the omelet with honey and omelet with a sour taste.

To be completely honest, they were a bit weird for me since I am not used to flavored omelets, but I am glad I tried something new.

It is also a bonus that their servers are really fast. After a customer leaves, they will immediately clean the table and prepare it for the next customers who are patiently lining up.

Sample Itinerary for 3D/2N in Armenia

For those who are looking to visit Armenia but do not have an itinerary yet, you may want to follow our suggested itinerary to serve as your guide.

This can be a quick weekend trip if you are from neighboring countries, but you can also complement this with guides from other countries if you are backpacking Caucasus region.

Also, take note that in winter, the roads can be inaccessible due to snow, and some places may not be available to visit. So, this is something you’ll need to keep in mind.

Other Helpful Tips

Armenian Money

The currency in Armenia is Armenian drams (AMD). We recommend that instead of exchanging at the airport, exchange in the money changer in SAS Foodcourt. A local told us that the rates are better.

Make sure to exchange for smaller bills. In certain areas, finding smaller denominations can be challenging, particularly when paying for amenities like restroom charges at tourist spots.

Stray Animals

Armenians are known to be animal-lovers. This maybe because of their pagan history, but they are very compassionate towards animals.

Dogs have a historical significance as guardians, while cats are seen in various tourist spots as well.

It is common to see dogs and cats roaming around in tourist spots. If you are like me, with a history of dog phobia, it’s advisable to approach them with caution and respect their space, as they may be strays or owned by locals. 

However, many of these dogs and cats are friendly and accustomed to human interaction, so with a gentle approach, you may find yourself pleasantly surprised by their warmth and companionship.

Tours

When we went to Armenia, we hired a tour operator.

Our Armenian contact and tour operator, Norik, has been instrumental in making our stay in Armenia both enjoyable and safe.

He goes above and beyond; for instance, when I accidentally left my camera charging battery at Areni Winery, he ensured its safe return to me. Norik maintains constant communication and is readily available whenever assistance is needed.

Here is how you can contact him as well. Contact Tours in Armenia

Bicycle Renting

If you are someone who enjoys using bicycles to roam around, you can rent a bicycle in Yerevan. It is called Glovo. It’s counterpart in Dubai is Careem.

We did not try ourselves, but I am sure you can also use it for a DIY trip around the Yerevan tourist spots.

Cigarettes

It seemed to me that cigarette smoking is cultural in Armenia. Throughout our trip, we encountered numerous smokers, and even inside vehicles, the scent of cigarettes lingered. 

But this may also be because it was winter, which is why people might be more inclined to smoke.

Nevertheless, if you have sensitivity to cigarette smoke, this is something that you should know so you can be prepared.

Language

In a country as diverse and culturally rich as Armenia, one might expect communication to be a breeze. However, the reality is a tad more complex.

While Armenia indeed boasts a mosaic of cultures, traditions, and languages, navigating communication can sometimes prove to be a nuanced endeavor.

For those not fluent in Armenian, especially in more rural areas where English proficiency might be limited, the language barrier can feel palpable.

Even in urban centers, while younger generations might have a better grasp of English, older individuals often primarily speak Armenian or Russian.

This linguistic diversity adds layers of challenge and intrigue to daily interactions, requiring patience, creativity, and perhaps a phrasebook or two to bridge the gap and truly connect with Armenian society.

Final Thoughts…

Armenia is truly a remarkable destination, often underrated and underappreciated. Despite some mishaps we encountered during our stay, they haven’t altered my perception of its beauty. It’s a hidden gem waiting to be discovered, boasting a wealth of culture, breathtaking landscapes, and warm, hospitable people.

So pack your bags, embrace the unknown, and get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime in this beautiful country!

Let this Armenia travel guide be a testament to how wonderful the country is. I hope this blog aids you in crafting your itinerary and provides valuable tips for navigating your trip. Good vibes and happy travels!