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Yerevan Travel Tips

Communication Services

Local SIM cards provide convenient mobile service. Wi-Fi access is widespread throughout the city.

Stay Connected

  • Local SIMs: Viva-MTS, Ucom, Beeline; passport needed for purchase.
  • Wi-Fi: Free in cafes, hotels, public squares (Republic Square, Northern Avenue).
  • Mobile Data: Reliable 4G/LTE in Yerevan and major towns. Consider Airalo eSIM for easy activation or Solis Wi-Fi for portable internet.

Language and Post

Armenian is the official language, with Russian also widely spoken. English is increasingly common in tourist areas.

Bridging Gaps

  • Translation: Google Translate (offline pack helpful). Rosetta Stone for language learning.
  • Postal Services: HayPost for sending letters and parcels.
  • Common Second Languages: Russian (older generations), English (younger, tourism sector).

Essential Phrases

Speak Like a Local

  • Hello: Barev dzez (Բարև Ձեզ) - Bah-rev dehz
  • Thank you: Shnorhakalutyun (Շնորհակալություն) - Shnor-ha-kal-oo-tyun
  • Please: Khndrem (Խնդրեմ) - Khn-drem

More Useful Words

These simple words can aid in daily transactions and conversations.

Everyday Vocabulary

  • Yes: Ayo (Այո) - Ah-yoh
  • No: Voch (Ոչ) - Vohch
  • Water: Jur (Ջուր) - Joor

Additional Phrases for Convenience

Getting Around & Dining

  • Excuse me: Neroghutyun (Ներողություն) - Neh-roh-ghoo-tyun
  • How much?: Inch arje? (Ինչ արժե) - Inch ar-jeh
  • Delicious: Hamov (Համով) - Hah-mov
  • Cheers!: Kenatsd! (Կենացդ) - Keh-nahts-d (informal)

Useful for Socializing

  • Kenatsner! (Կենացներ) - Keh-nahts-ner (formal/plural cheers)
  • You're welcome: Khndrem (Խնդրեմ) - Khn-drem
  • Greetings with a smile often bridge language gaps.
  • Don't hesitate to utilize translation apps when needed.

Communication Insight

Carrying a small phrasebook can be very handy for quick references.

Business & Public Services

Retail Hours

Shops generally open 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Supermarkets often operate longer, some 24/7.

Dining Hours

Restaurants and cafes typically open from 9:00 AM/10:00 AM until midnight or later, especially in the city center.

Banking Services

Banks operate mostly on weekdays, 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM. ATMs are widely available across Yerevan for access to cash.

Public Holidays

Several public holidays can impact business operations and public services. Plan visits accordingly.

Dates

  • New Year's & Christmas: Dec 31 - Jan 7 (Orthodox Christmas is Jan 6).
  • Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day: April 24 (solemn day).
  • National Day of independence: September 21.

Seasonal Adjustments

Some businesses may have adjusted schedules during certain seasons or major holiday periods.

Things to Note

  • Mid-Summer: Some smaller places may have shorter opening times.
  • Museums: Typically close on Mondays for maintenance.
  • Verify Hours: Check specific opening hours for attractions before you go to.

Airport Services and Compensation

Airport Lounge Access

  • Access independent airport lounges globally with Priority Pass.
  • Enjoy comfortable waiting areas and amenities before flights.
  • A relaxing pre-flight experience for frequent travelers.

Flight Disruption Compensation

  • Receive compensation for flight delays, cancellations, or refused entry onto the plane.
  • Service available through Compensair for eligible cases.
  • This helps travelers claim their rights for disrupted journeys.

Planning Ahead

Public holidays often lead to widespread closures; check the calendar to plan activities accordingly.

Etiquette & Accessibility

Cultural Norms

Armenians are warm and welcoming. Modesty in dress, especially at religious sites, is standard.

Social Customs

  • Greetings: Handshakes common for men; "Barev dzez" (formal hello).
  • Attire: Modest dress. Shoulders/knees covered at religious sites; women may need head covering.
  • Dining: Accept offers of food/drink; prepare for toasts with alcohol.

Photography & Sensitivities

Always ask permission for photos of individuals. Be mindful of sensitive historical and civic topics.

Ethical Interactions

  • Photography: Ask before close-ups of people; avoid flash during services.
  • Taboos: Armenian Genocide is deeply sensitive; Nagorno-Karabakh conflict is complex.
  • LGBTQ+: Conservative society; discretion advisable.

Accessibility Challenges

Yerevan's infrastructure for those with disabilities is developing, which can present obstacles.

Navigating the City

  • Infrastructure: Older buildings often lack ramps/elevators; uneven sidewalks.
  • Transport: Public transport generally not wheelchair accessible.
  • Attractions: Many places of historical interest involve stairs or tough terrain.

Support Services

Specialized services for visual or hearing impairments are limited. Pre-arrangement is often recommended.

Finding Assistance

  • Visual Impairment: Travel with a companion or pre-arrange support.
  • Hearing Impairment: Limited specialized services available.
  • Resources: Contact hotels directly or local NGOs for specific accessibility details.

Important Considerations

Safety Notes

  • Public displays of affection are less common.
  • Solo female travelers are generally safe, but may attract attention.
  • Be cautious when discussing internal politics.

Practical Reminders

  • Do not photograph government buildings or military sites.
  • Avoid using flash during religious services.
  • Turn off or silence phones inside religious sites.

Gender & LGBTQ+ Travelers

Gender Dynamics

  • Armenian society generally follows traditional patriarchal norms.
  • Public displays of affection are typically understated.
  • Solo female travelers find safety, although some attention may be present.

LGBTQ+ Considerations

  • Armenia is a conservative country regarding LGBTQ+ rights.
  • Public expression of LGBTQ+ who someone is generally not advised outside specific circles in Yerevan.
  • Discretion is recommended for same-sex couples in public.

Traveler's Advice

A considerate approach to local customs and polite inquiries contribute to a positive travel experience.

Visitor Services & Support

Information centers and local support resources are accessible to help with your visit.

Tourist Information

Official tourist information centers offer maps, brochures, and tips from the area.

Where to Find Help

  • Locations: Found in central Yerevan and Zvartnots Airport.
  • Services: Provide details on attractions, tours, and local events.
  • Event Info: Get current festival dates and cultural performances.

Emergency & Safety

Emergency services are available. It is consistently wise to know contact numbers.

Important Contacts

  • Ambulance: 103
  • Fire Department: 101
  • Police: 102

Local Assistance

Area non-governmental-state agencies (NGOs) and community groups may offer specialized information or support.

Community Support

  • NGOs: Some groups focus on disability rights or cultural preservation.
  • Direct Contact: Best to reach to go out to specific organizations for assistance needs.
  • Local Guides: Hiring a local guide for specific needs is beneficial.

General Advice

Preparation and a versatile mindset contribute to a more enjoyable journey in Armenia.

Tips for Travelers

  • Stay Informed: Keep updated on local news and conditions.
  • Be Patient: Small cultural differences or language barriers resolve with patience.
  • Research: Look into certain interests or needs before arrival.

Support Network

Official and local organizations can be used by provide assistance and information during your visit.