Armenia🇦🇲
Armenia, a landlocked country in the South Caucasus region of Eurasia, is positioned at the crossroads of Western Asia and Eastern Europe. It shares its borders with Georgia to the north, Azerbaijan to the east and south, Iran to the southwest, and Turkey to the west. Armenia is known for its rich history, mouthwatering cuisine, and beautiful landscapes. The country is home to thousands of historical monuments, such as the Echmiadzin Cathedral and the monasteries of Geghard and Haghpat, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Exploring the capital Yerevan, visiting Lake Sevan, and tasting Armenia’s famous brandy are must-do activities while visiting the country.
⚠️Things you should avoid⚠️
- Avoid discussing the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict with Armenians as this is a sensitive topic.
- Avoid swimming in Lake Sevan early or late in the season as cold water temperature can be dangerous.
- Avoid disrespecting religious traditions and customs while visiting monasteries and churches.
- Avoid leaving your personal belongings unattended as cases of pickpocketing and theft occur.
- Avoid getting involved in local politics. It is illegal for foreigners to participate in political demonstrations.
- Avoid isolated or poorly lit areas in Yerevan at night, and always stay aware of your surroundings.
- Avoid drinking the tap water if you have a sensitive stomach or are in rural areas outside of Yerevan.
- Avoid taking photos of military installations, which can get you in trouble with authorities.
- Avoid travelling near the border with Azerbaijan due to ongoing conflicts and related security threats.
- Avoid public displays of affection if you are a part of the LGBTQ+ community as this can attract unwanted attention and potentially lead to harassment.
Overall
6
Crime 🔫
6
Armenia's crime rate is relatively moderate. The crime index in 2021 is moderate to low, with petty crimes such as pickpocketing and theft being fairly common, particularly in urban areas and tourist hot spots like Yerevan. However, violent crime against foreigners is relatively rare.
Terrorism 💣
8
Armenia has a generally low threat from terrorism and hasn't suffered any major terror attacks in recent years. However, sectarian tension, largely stemming from conflict with its neighbor Azerbaijan over the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region, has led to occasional spikes in localized violence.
War ⚔️
4
While Armenia itself is not currently in a state of war, escalating tensions and conflicts with neighboring Azerbaijan, particularly over the Nagorno-Karabakh region, have led to significant insecurity. The 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh war saw a significant escalation in armed conflict and a ceasefire was brokered but the situation remains volatile.
Natural Disasters 🌊
6
Armenia is susceptible to a few types of natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, and landslides. The last catastrophic earthquake occurred in 1988, causing significant loss of life and property.
Medical Care 🏥
7
Armenia's healthcare system has undergone significant reforms, and medical facilities in larger cities are adequate for routine and simple medical problems. However, advanced medical treatment and emergency services are limited outside of Yerevan. While pharmacies are well stocked, certain medications may not be available.
Tap Water Quality 💧
8
The tap water in Armenia, particularly in Yerevan, is generally safe to drink. It is sourced from mountain springs and is treated to reduce contamination. However, visitors with a sensitive stomach may prefer to stick to bottled water.
Disease Burden 🤒
8
Armenia has made significant progress in public health. The country has implemented effective vaccination programs and has one of the highest immunization rates in the region. Diseases such as Malaria, Zika, and Yellow Fever are virtually nonexistent.
Corruption 💸
4
Corruption remains a significant challenge in Armenia despite attempts to combat it. Armenia's government has made steps in recent years to address the issue, including the introduction of anti-corruption legislation, however, perception of corruption remains high in many sectors, particularly in healthcare, education, and the judiciary.
Safety for Women ♀️
6
While Armenian society is generally benign, women travelers should exercise a degree of caution. Domestic violence and harassment are societal issues and there have been reports of harassment, especially at night.
Safety for Queer People 👬
2
Armenia's attitudes towards LGBTQ+ rights and individuals are less progressive compared to many Western countries. Although homosexuality is not a criminal offense, societal attitudes tend to be conservative, and discrimination and violence against LGBTQ+ individuals can occur.
Censorship 📺
6
Armenia enjoys relative freedom of press. However, there have been instances of self-censorship, and many Armenian media outlets exhibit apparent bias. Access to information online is typically unrestricted.
Public Transportation 🚌
5
Public transportation in Armenia is accessible and cheap but it can be uncomfortable and crowded, especially during peak hours. Journey times can be unpredictable due to traffic, and road safety standards are often unsatisfactory. Numerous accidents and fatalities involving minibuses (known locally as Marshrutka) have been reported.
Other useful information
🔒 How safe is it?
Armenia's safety varies based on location and circumstance. Cities like Yerevan are generally safe but have issues with theft and pickpocketing. The country has a relatively low rate of violent crime, and terrorism risk is low. However, the ongoing conflict with Azerbaijan does pose safety concerns, particularly in the Nagorno-Karabakh region and along the Armenian-Azerbaijani border. As always, it is advised to stay informed about the current situation prior to and during the trip.
🏰 Embassies in this Country
Several embassies and consulates are based in Yerevan, including the US Embassy, British Embassy, German Embassy, French Embassy, Canadian Consulate, and Australian Consulate.
💉 Recommended Vaccinations
Before travelling to Armenia, recommended vaccinations include routine vaccines such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), polio, and your yearly flu shot. Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccinations are also recommended due to possible exposure through contaminated food or water.
🐍 Dangerous Animals
Armenia has a variety of wildlife, although encounters with dangerous animals are rare. The country is home to European brown bears, wolves, and venomous vipers. Be aware of your surroundings when hiking in remote areas.
🛂 Visa Requirements
Most nationals, including those from the EU, US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, do not require a visa for stays in Armenia of up to 180 days per year.
💲 Currency
The official currency of Armenia is the Armenian dram (AMD). Exchange facilities are readily available at international airports, hotels, and city centres. ATMs are widely distributed in cities but less so in rural areas.
💳 Credit Card Acceptance
Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops in Yerevan and other major cities, but cash is the preferred method of payment in more remote areas.
🧑🏭 Is it possible to work and travel in this country?
While there may be opportunities particularly in teaching English or volunteering, paid employment options for foreigners are generally limited in Armenia due to language requirements and economic conditions. Necessary permissions such as work visas are required.
💵 Cost of Travel and Living
The cost of living and travel in Armenia is considered to be fairly low compared to European standards. On average, mid-range hotels, local transportation, meals at mid-range restaurants, and attractions may be more affordable than those in Western nations.