Yerevan, Armenia
Basics:
Currency: Armenian Dram. Armenia is mostly a cash-based country. It is helpful to have some local currency upon arrival. Avoid exchange rates and ATM fees by using a multi-currency
Language: Armenian and Russian are widely spoken. You can get away with only English inthe city center though it would be helpful to download a translation app.
Armenian 101:
Hello - Barev (bah-rev)
Goodbye - Durov (door-ov)
Thank you - While not Armenian, "merci" is widely used and accepted by locals because it has way less syllables. If you want to be formal you can say Shnorhakalutyun (shnor-hah-kah-loo-tyoon).
Please - Khntir (khn-teer)
Excuse me - Hjroh (huh-roh)
Yes - Ayo (ah-yoh)
No - Ux (oohkh)Where is...? - Inch e...? (inch eh...?)
How much does it cost? - Qani dram e hetevyal? (kah-nee dram eh heh-teh-vee-yal?)
I don't understand - Chem karogh em hanel (chem ka-rogh em ha-nel)
*Please note that the phonetic pronunciation is an approximation and may not be completely accurate.
How to get there:
✈️Major airlines that fly to Yerevan include Turkish Airlines, Aegean, and airBaltic.
🛤️👟🚗Armenia's borders with Georgia remain open and a border crossing with Turkey was just opened earlier this year.
How to get around:
Metro: There are currently 10 stations and each train arrives every 4-10 minutes. Stations are open from 7:00 am to 11:00pm daily. To catch a ride, buy a token from the employee at the metro station (about 100AMD). Insert the plastic token in the turnstile and continue your journey.
Local taxis: If you'd like to practice your negotiation skills, local taxis can be flagged down on the street or can be called by phone.
Martrushka/Bus: If you're traveling a bit farther from the capital you can take a marshrutka (minibus). There is no set schedule, it leaves when the bus is full, and remember to have cash! Someone will collect your fare before the bus leaves.
How to stay connected: wi-fi availability?
If you need your data while traveling it may be more cost effective to buy a local sim. You have two choices - a physical sim, or an e-sim.
Physical sim - When landing at the Zvartnots airport, there are three kiosks that sell physical sim cards. They are located in baggage claim. Based on my research, UCom is the most recommended.
E-sim - I opted to use an e-sim during my travel which made it very convenient. I can recommend Airalo. Use my referral code: DEBBIE1952 for $3 off.
Where to Stay:
What not to miss:
Vernissage - A market where local crafters sell their wares. It is best to bring cash.
Victory Park - Home to a small amusement park, memorials to lost soldiers, and the Mother of Armenia monument. It is located on a hilltop which also offers great city views.
Republic Square - if you visit during favorable weather, be sure to visit the light and music show at the fountain complex.
Museums - There are many museums in Yerevan, most are located around Republic Square. Whether you are typically a museum-goer or not, I would recommend a visit at least in order to better understand the country's complicated history and current standing.
Cascade Complex - Part park, part museum, wholy worth a visit.
National Opera and Ballet Theatre - Catch a show here if you have time. You don't have to understand the language to appreciate the artistry.
For the brandy lover, visit the Ararat Brandy Museum for a tasting and tour.
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