Travel tips for Armenia - what to prepare in advance and what to obey

1. The borders of Armenia with Turkey and Azerbaijan are closed. It is impossible to get to Armenia through these countries.

2. If you have notes on crossing the border of Azerbaijan in your passport, you may have problems on the border with Armenia. This is due to the Nagorno-Karabakh military conflict between the countries.

3. The national currency of Armenia is dram. Both banknotes and coins are called so. If you run out of local currency, you can pay in dollars in some stores.

4. It’s better to discuss the cost of a taxi ride in advance. Otherwise, the taxi driver can ask for enormous money at the place of arrival.

5. In small towns and villages in Armenia, you should not wear bright or low-necked clothes. This can provoke a negative reaction from local residents.

6. The best time to visit Armenia is from April to October. At this time, the climate is the warmest and ideal for any recreation.

7. The most popular mean of public transport is a shuttle bus. There are lots of them connecting different areas. You can also use the subway in Yerevan. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

8. Armenians are very proud and love their country. Therefore, don’t talk about topics related to the national issue, genocide or relations with Turkey and Azerbaijan.

9. Tap water in Armenia can be safely consumed without additional treatment. Free drinking water is available to travelers in special fountains on the streets.

10. You should not rent a car in Armenia if you are going to travel around the country. Roads in some areas can be gravel or almost absent, which will seriously complicate the journey.

11. Armenia is a highland country, so the air can be low in oxygen. Such environment may seem unusual to some people. That may cause discomfort during acclimatization.

12. Armenians are very proud people. Even poor people can be seriously offended if they are offered money for no reason. Therefore, giving out tips, one should be extremely tactful.

13. It is necessary to bargain on the markets. Locals can raise the prices for foreign citizens too high.

14. The standard tip in Armenia is less than in Europe. It is about 5% of the cost. However, it is customary to leave 10% in elite restaurants.

15. During travel to the eastern part of the country and mountainous Karabakh, it is forbidden to photograph objects that may prove to be military. Such actions can be regarded as espionage.