Practical Information Armenia

Facts Armenia

In Armenia we speak Armenian and the language consists of a unique alphabet. The capital of Armenia is Yerevan, one of the oldest cities in the world – even older than Rome. The country is 29,800 km2 in size. It is a nice list of UNESCO monuments and one can find the most beautiful nature. The form of government is a republic and the government sits in the capital, on the Republic Square. The population is 3.262.200 (2010), but the Armenian diaspora has about 10 million. The highest mountain is currently the Aragats (4.090m).

The flag of Armenia consists of the colors red that represent the Armenian blood that is shed, blue for the Armenian air, the will to live under a peaceful sky and orange that represents the apricot with the fertile soil. Armenians are known for their hospitality, sharing and being together.

Climates in Armenia

In the autumn Armenia has a beautiful golden autumn! The temperatures are on average 18 degrees. For the journey it is important to bring T-shirts as well as a thick sweater and / or vests, as we travel through different areas (and heights). So we advise clothing in layers.

In the spring, Armenia is a paradise with green mountains and valleys, the sun is shining and the temperature is 21 degrees on average. There is still some snow in the mountains. Nature is in full bloom and everyone is amazed. There are plenty of animals to find and this time is extra photogenic.

The summers in Armenia are dry and sunny. The summer period starts in June and lasts until about mid-September. During this period the temperatures during the day (depending on the altitude) are between 22 and 37 degrees Celsius. Because there is a relatively low humidity, it generally seems less hot in times of heat than the value on the thermometer makes you believe. If hot air from Russia can reach Armenia, that could just be a temperature of forty degrees, with the exception of areas that are above fifteen hundred meters. With a maximum sun power of 10 to 11 (the highest attainable) in the summer, the sun is strong. The solar power here is then almost equal to that in the Caribbean. Yet in the summer you can also cool off in the higher provinces.

After a relatively short autumn Armenia has fairly severe winters. The temperature can drop to -20 degrees. There is plenty of snow on the street and in the mountains, so there is possibility to ski in Tsaghkadzor.

Practical Information

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Visa

An additional visa is not necessary during a trip to Armenia. As Armenia is not part of the European Union, a valid passport is required as a travel document. An ID card is therefore invalid.

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Electricity

In Armenia the same type of sockets are used as in the Netherlands.
So you can simply take all your electronics with you without adjustments.

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Language

The Armenian language has its own writing, which was designed by the monk Mashtots in the 5th century. As in all countries of the former Soviet Union, older people hardly speak other languages such as English. The younger generations speak more and more English. However, you will regularly encounter language problems, for example when ordering in a restaurant or asking for directions. These belong to the charms of traveling through relatively undiscovered countries like Armenia.

Fortunately, the language is no problem for our travel groups,
since the tour guide assists you intensively in both translations and contact with the local population. It is worth it to study some Armenian words yourself, the local population will certainly appreciate that. For the journey you will receive a handy glossary and after some practice you will quickly notice the enthusiasm of the Armenians.

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Currencies

In Armenia people pay with the Armenian dram. (1 euro is + – 500 dram) Money is possible, pins in shops and supermarkets is generally possible in Yerevan, but the most common is cash payment.
In addition, we recommend to pay large (er) amounts once, since withdrawing money costs € 2.50 per withdrawal. There are no costs associated with transactions via the debit card itself. In most villages there is no pin available.

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Time zone

During the summer time it is 2 hours later in Armenia than in the Netherlands. During our winter time it is 3 hours later in Armenia. In the summer months the sun rises in Armenia around 5:30 and goes below around 20:30. During the spring and winter months the sun rises around 7 o’clock and goes down again around 6:30 PM. The average day in the year in Armenia has about 13 hours of daylight, roughly equal to the values of the Netherlands.

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Travel insurance

We offer our trips, as many travel agencies do not offer travel insurance. You can individually take out travel insurance with an insurance company of your choice. If you encounter any difficulties, questions or need help, we will of course help you and free of charge.
This also applies to advice that has to do with the trips in any way whatsoever.