August – September 2008

Rose and Alex Pilibos Armenian School
November 21, 2007 presentation

Rose and Alex Pilibos Armenian School November 21, 2007 presentation Mr. Kevork Sarkissian, Armenian and Department Chair of Rose and Alex Pilibos Armenian School in Hollywood invited me, to have a presentation and discussion with the higher classes of the high school.

The discussion was regarding recent situations in Armenia, especially in the rural areas and villages, including the road conditions, water, economic development, education, health, traffic, pollution, forests and environment. I had prepared a slide show, which was interesting to the students. They had several questions and comments and we had a successful discussion. I was pleased to see that our youth are eager and interested to learn about our homeland, its current situation and its future.

Thank you Mr. Sarkissian for this opportunity to talk to your students and arouse their interest in this matter. Now they are aware that they too can share in helping our homeland prosper.

November 2007

A last minute decision, and a surprise for my wife, I booked a flight to Armenia for October 30, 2007, to attend an engagement party in Yerevan. As you know, we were there in August, but I just couldn't resist the temptation to go again. My wife and I left to fly to Yerevan, via France. On the airplane, we met a number of Armenians who were traveling to Armenia (some as tourists others for business, and yet others to attend different conferences being held in Armenia).

In Paris, while connecting to our flight to Yerevan, we met a group of over sixty people, all members of a French medical organization called "Association Sente Armenienne France" with a number of cardiologists and heart specialists as well as professors in cardiology. I was informed that they would be visiting several hospitals in Armenia, and would be establishing working relations with some of the facilities.

In fact, on our return flight from Yerevan to Paris, we met up again with some of the group's participants, who told us that a successful heart surgery was preformed to a pregnant woman at the Nork Marash hospital. Upon arrival at the Zvartnotz airport, the issuance of our visas, the immigration, baggage claim and customs process took exactly 35 minutes, which is quite fast compared, to many other cities' airports in the world.

In this month of November (in comparison to August, when many were out of town), the traffic in Yerevan was very heavy, mostly due to a very large number of additional cars being brought into Yerevan (I understand that about 25.000 cars per year are being brought in). The construction of pedestrian underpasses continues which will hopefully help with pedestrian traffic.

On November 3, 2007 we participated in the Seventh International Tourism Fair held at Cine Moscow lobby. Some of the exhibitors had very nice booths with good information and were handing out well prepared colorful travel brochures. The TourInfo Magazine, (a free publication) ATDA, Armenian Hotel Associations, Arthurs Hotels and resorts, Armenia Marriott, Golden City hotel group and Czech Airlines were among many other exhibitors.

A group of Tour Operators and Travel Agents from Italy were visiting Armenia for a familiarization trip. They were guests of one of the major travel companies in Armenia. While there, they had hotel inspections as well as several sightseeing tours. There educational and pleasant experiences should result in increase of tourists from Italy and Europe.

On November 8, 2007, I had a lengthy meeting with Mr. Ara Petrosyan, Deputy Minister of Trade and Economic Development. We discussed issues such as the departure terminal of the airport where crowds of well wishers (non-travelers who come to the airport with the traveler to send them off), thereby creating overcrowding, and disruption of the smooth movement of passengers. I also suggested easier ways to obtain the 10,000 Dram exit fee stamp and making a visa extension simpler to get. I asked Mr. Petrosyan to bring some of the ideas discussed to the appropriate authorities and departments. These included educating drivers to drive more safely particularly in relation to extending courtesies to pedestrians who are legally crossing the street, and teaching pedestrians to cross from marked cross-walks whenever possible; planning and creating more one-way streets as well as street signs for easier and faster traffic flow, and other infrastructure needs within the City.

It seems that in the smaller towns and villages, drivers and pedestrians are more courteous than in Yerevan (probably since it is not as crowded as Yerevan has gotten to become). I also suggested that information brochures about Armenia be printed and distributed by the Ministry of Foreign Affaires to the Armenian Consulates throughout the world. I met with "Armenian Hotel Association" Executive Director Ms.Lusine Minasyan. She informed me that member hotels are participating in educating their staff through special courses in the hospitality and service business, and that most hotels are now accepting credit card payments with their reservation and cancellation policies being similar to known world wide accepted formats. We discussed the implementation of the "star" system and other issues related to hotel and hospitality industry in Armenia.

I also visited the offices of American Chamber of Commerce in Armenia and was given a general idea of development progress in Armenia. I am hopeful that ties between Armenia and the US with relation to commerce grows stronger, each day.

I had a very interesting meeting with Mr. Vazgen Khachikyan (President of State Fund of RA Social Insurance) who is from Akhtala, he gave me detailed information about the work done to promote tourism to Akhtala, including but not limited to the renovation of the fortress and St. Astvatsatseen monastery. He informed me that the RA Government will be helping to repair the roads leading to the fortress and that individuals will build clean restaurants and facilities to attract and accommodate tourists. Future plans include construction of a resort hotel to encourage tourist to spend one or more nights in this beautiful area.

Based on this, and my visits to Akhtala in August, I suggest that tour operators, include Akhtala as an additional stop during Haghpad and Sanahin tour, or give an option to have Sanahin and Akhtala or Haghpad and Akhtala as a full day tour. All three monasteries/complexes can be visited in one day, if you leave early enough in the morning from Yerevan (approximately 8:30 AM), including a 15-20 minute stop at the AyPenKeem (Alphabet) sight at the skirt of Arakadz Mountain. While I was there, the Northern Avenue had not yet officially been opened. But of course, I strolled along it, and enjoyed the very modern look of the area. Yet, I don't know if I felt like I was walking in Yerevan or Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. I suppose this is the same feeling that Yerevan citizens are experiencing. Do you keep Yerevan traditional or start to modernize? This is a question that tourists can answer for themselves. Let me know what you think?

August 2007

Our 2007 visit to Armenia started on August 01. Once again, I traveled with my wife, two daughters, and both my grandchildren (my grandson is 17 years old and granddaughter is 6 years old. Each one of them had a great time). When we landed at Zevartnotz Airport’s eleven (11) month old new arrival terminal, things were more organized than ever before. Issuance of entry visas, and going through immigration was very smooth. All of our baggage (11 pieces) had arrived with no problem, and there were no crowds of porters imposing their help. Instead we rented luggage-carrying carts (the fee was 400 Drams: approximately $1.35 each) As we exited the airport, we were greeted, as usual, with the smiling faces of our friends with flowers and kisses. The number of friends meeting us grows every year, although we ask them not to come to the airport…but, that is part of the fun. After hugs and kisses we were whisked to our hotel, where our usual rooms were ready. The staff greeted us as usual like family members. This trip we decided to travel to areas that we had not seen before. One such destination was our drive alongside Lake Sevan from the south eastern side where the scenery was very different from the western side of the lake, which has been the side of lake where we have driven by several times in the past. It was well worth taking this trip along the southeastern side of Sevan, and visiting Hayr Vank, with a beautiful view of the lake, and passing through the village/town of Kavar and a stop at Noratuz cemetery full of erected katchkars as head stones. On another day, we drove along the western side of Sevan and revisited Haghartzin Monastery in Dilijan (which is one of my personal favorites). Jermouk was another beautiful town that we visited again this trip. The waterfalls, rivers, manmade lake and mineral water baths are the hallmarks of Jermouk, and should not be missed. The weather in Jermouk is usually much cooler than in Yerevan, so jackets are a must, particularly in the evening. Before arriving to Jermouk, we went to the Shakee waterfall in Sunik. Don’t count on getting in to see the waterfall, because you need to get into the hydro plant first, which is locked off by a gate. For almost half an hour, we kept honking the car horn, and we finally grabbed the attention of the caretaker there, who let us in. We had to pay a little something for him to turn the switch on for the waterfall. A small hike along the path brought us to the Shakee waterfall where we enjoyed the sound and sights of the fall and surroundings, under a beautiful blue sky with the sun shining bright upon us. We drove back to Jermouk, and stayed the night. Another day, we went to the Akhtala compound and St.Astvatsatseen (Holy Virgin) monastery founded in the 10th Century by the Bagratoonee-Kyooreekians. Akhtala is past the Haghpat monastery in the Lori Province. The drive to Akhtala was through lush forests, steep and tall cliffs, with rapid rivers and creeks below. The Akhtala compound/fortress is one of the most well preserved fortresses in Armenia. The internal walls of the Church are decorated with colorful murals dating back to before the 13th Century. It is said that these murals are one of the exceptional representations of the Greek Orthodox culture outside Byzantium. In the Akhtala area, there are also other historic and architectural monuments, such as The Holy Trinity monastery, the Twin Churches, St. George Church, khachkars and other noteworthy ruins. In August traffic was light in Yerevan, as residents had gone “hankesdanalou” (vacationing). Dzaghgatsor , Jermouk, Dilijan, Sevan and other popular spots were busy with Yerevantzies. The huge water fountain in the Republic Square was being repaired, and underground pedestrian passes where being built on major streets, such as at Khanjian and Sayat Nova. Of course, where ever you look, new construction of modern high-rises were in the works; many with iron/metal and glass which I noted to be a changing and new look to the charming and traditional face of old Yerevan with its pink and gray tone stone buildings. But this is progress…We also noticed several individual homes being built right outside of Yerevan,. Hopefully, this is a sign of expansion outside the Getron.(City center) There is just too much going on within the few blocks in the Getron, the surroundings of the Republic Square. It is wise to start expanding to some of the other areas in Yerevan . Unfortunately, the airport departure lounge is still very crowded and check in lines are way too long, so always plan on checking in at least three (3) hours prior to your flight departure. Remember to purchase your exit permit of 10, 000 Dram before entering the check in line. Until next time –

February 22, 2007

September 2006

March 20, 2006 was a celebration in our household, because once again, we had purchased our airline tickets to visit Armenia in September 2006 (this time traveling with me and my wife was my daughter Lena and her three friends, two of whom were first time visitors to Armenia, on the newly scheduled Air France connection via Paris).

We arrived Yerevan on September 13, 2006. My compliments to the border control personnel, as welcoming smiles and polite treatment was noticeable. As usual we were greeted with hugs and flowers from our friends and whisked off to the hotel we normally stay at. Although the hour was late by the time we reached the hotel, we stayed up until the wee hours of the night talking, laughing and enjoying our reunion. The Following day, Sept 14, 2006 was the opening of Zevartnotz airport’s new arrival terminal with its modern baggage carousels and two security monitors which should expedite the arrival process,


September 18 through 20 we participated in the Armenia Diaspora Conference organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. R.A. President Robert Kocahrian, Artsakh President Arkadi Ghoukasian, His Holiness Karekin II, His Holiness Aram I, R.A. Government officials, dignitaries and over 2000 delegates and guests were present. This was a unique opportunity for Diaspora Armenians to meet each other and Armenians of the Homeland to discuss important issues for the benefit of all. This third conference had a main agenda of “Rural Poverty Eradication in Armenia” one Village at a Time. Experts and professionals in economics, agriculture and health will be working hard to rebuild the basic infrastructure in the rural areas and through public and private partnerships assist the villagers to substantially increase productivity and farm income. Two excellent books (Armenia Discovered) and (Rural Poverty Eradication) with beautiful pictures, published by the Ministry of Foreign Affaires were included in the conference kits distributed to the delegates.

On September 21,2006 we attended an impressive Independence Day Military parade at the beautifully decorated Republic Square followed with a Service of Blessing the Republic of Armenia at St. Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral on the occasion of the 15th Anniversary of Armenia’s Independence. Thousands of people were all outdoors celebrating and the national TV did live broadcast of all the festivities. The “Vasken Sargsyan” Stadium was the highlight of the evening with a concert-show, followed by spectacular fireworks. Late that night, the Opera House square was bustling with people present at a concert with Shoushan Petrosian with her patriotic and crowd pleasing songs. Several other concerts and functions were preformed throughout Yerevan and all regional centers. Independence in movies was also shown at the Moscow Cinema, with over 20 feature films and documentaries all produced after the Independence. It was a true celebration. Most importantly almost all the functions were free to the public. The Ministry of Culture and Youth Affaires organized and presented the cultural events.

A large number of conferences, forums, expositions and exhibitions coincided on these days. The Armenian Evangelical Church celebrated its 160th Anniversary during a four-day conference attended by representatives from 22 countries. The Armenia Relief Society (A.R.S.) also had several hundred members and delegates from throughout the world participate in celebrating the 15th Anniversary of the establishment of the ARS Chapter in Armenia.

On September 29 and 30 another celebration took place in Armenia when President Jacques Chirac of France made a historic visit to Armenia joined by his wife and several French ministers and dignitaries. This unprecedented visit included a ceremonial visit to “Dzidzernakapert” the Armenian Genocide Memorial in Yerevan, a state dinner at the residence of President Robert Kocharian, inauguration of “the Place de France” square, visit to Etchmiadzin and His Holiness Karekin II and finally an open air spectacular concert was performed by world renowned Armenian singer Charles Aznavour at the Republic Square attended by tens of thousands.

On October 4th and 5th, at the invitation of R.A President Kocharian the President of Romania Mr. Traian Basescu visited Armenia during which time he gave his respects at the Genocide Memorial and had meetings with prime minister Markarian and His Holiness Karekin II.Z


“AYAS” Nautical Research Club displayed their ship “Cilicia” a replica of XIII century merchant sailing ship of the Armenian Kingdom of Cilicia, which had returned to Armenia after sailing trade sea routes around Europe, the Mediterranean, The North, the Baltic Seas and the Atlantic Ocean.


I was privileged to have fruitful meetings with H.E. Hasmik Poghosyan, Minister of RA Culture and Youth Affairs, and with Raffi Zaqaryan, Chief Adviser to The Minister of Culture and Youth Affairs. I met again with Mr. Ara Petrosyan, Deputy Minister of RA Ministry of Trade and Economic Development, in charge of tourism development. We discussed many concerns that I have had from tourists and those visiting the “Visit Armenia it is Beautiful” web site. I brought to his attention issues such as safety, traffic lights in the central areas, cleanliness of historic sights including the need for removal of trash and debris in said areas and once again made issue for the need of clean restroom facilities at all tourist sites. I attended yet another meeting with Mr. Araik Vardanyan Executive Director to the newly formed “The Union of Incoming Tour Operators of Armenia” to which most reputable Armenia travel agencies are members. Although I did not have a chance to fully research the UITO’s objectives, mission and service to the public, but I believe it is important to have such an organization where the member agencies can be accountable.

My wife and I had an opportunity to visit several “Mangadouns” (home for children): Our overall impression was that they were very well managed with adequate support staff, very clean and the children were healthy, well behaved and in good spirits. This trip, I also had the need for medical attention (minor health reason) and was taken to “Nairi” Medical Center and Hospital. It, too, was well maintained and clean and the medical service provided at the Emergency Room was noteworthy.

A final observation and comment from a tourist standpoint and to assist tourist concerns: I believe Armenia needs immediate attention to three “T” problems. Traffic, Trash and Toilets. I invite anyone in the Diaspora, or why not in Armenia, who can help improving these areas; please contact me and I will try my best to bring your ideas and suggestions to the proper agencies personnel for positive action.

Until my next report, I close by asking you to “Visit Armenia it is Beautiful” and tell a friend.

May 2006

ANC Burbank Honors “Visit Armenia it is Beautiful”

We were all privileged to be present at the inaugural banquet of the Armenian National Committee – Burbank Chapter, held on Friday, May 12th, 2006, at La Bella Banquet Hall.  The sold-out event honored activists and officials serving the Burbank community.  The evening commenced by Ms. Maria Akopian lending her talent to an outstanding performance of both the U.S. and Armenian national anthems.  Mr. Mourad Topalian, the master of ceremonies for the evening, delivered his opening remarks by emphasizing the importance of Armenian participation in local community activities and assured those present that the ANC Burbank chapter will continue to be an active part of the city's progress, as it has always been since its inception in 1990.  Archbishop Khoren Habeshian's blessings were followed by a delicious Armenian dinner - to the satisfaction of all present!

The evening's keynote speaker was the Honorable Paul Krekorian, a board member of the Burbank Unified School District and a longtime Burbank resident and community leader, who is closely familiar with both the ANC and the City of Burbank. His comments once again stressed the importance of both the ANC as an Armenian political association and the City of Burbank, as not only a home to thousands of Armenians but also a city of mixed ethnic backgrounds, working together.  A video presentation of the activities and the programs of the ANC gave the audience an overall view of the ANC Burbank's involvement in the city's progress.

The video presentation was followed by the Awards' Presentation by Dr. Arbi Ohanian.
The following five awards were presented:

- Karekin Njdeh (founder of the Armenian Youth Federation in the U.S. in 1933) award to Ms. Ani Khodaverdian and Ms. Dalar Abolian for their youth activities and work at the Burbank High Schools concerning the recognition of the Armenian Genocide and their dedication to the Armenian cause

- William Saroyan (who praised freedom, brotherly love and universal benevolence) award to Mr. Ara Boyadjian and to www.visitarmenia.org for his promotion of the "Visit Armenian, it is beautiful" project.

- Levon Shant  (leading figure in Armenian Drama, well known poet and teacher for more than sixty years) award to Ms. Sharon Cohen, Library Services Director, City of Burbank.

- Vahan Cardashian (founder of American Committee for an Independent Armenia along the lines recommended by President Wilson) award to Mrs. Tamar Krekorian as the Burbank ANC Activist of the Year.

- Nigol Aghbalian (ARF member at early age, member of parliament and Minister of Education of the first Armenian Republic, one of the founders of Hamazkain Cultural Association, educator) award to Mr.Mgerdich Boudaghian for his seventy years of tireless dedication to ARF and its cause.

Upon receipt of the William Saroyan award, Mr. Boyadjian had the following comments for the audience:

“I am honored and grateful to ANC Burbank for rewarding my “Visit Armenia it is Beautiful” project. I have come to this great country 37 years ago and since then, the State of California and especially the City of Burbank have given my family and I the means and opportunity to have a successful life and to live in harmony with our neighbors and be part of the success of the Burbank community.

Travel and tourism is one of the most important things for a country. In addition to its positive impact on the economy, it promotes peace, understanding and goodwill amongst people. Cultural exchange is a fascinating advancement for the growth of a nation. Accordingly my “Visit Armenia it is Beautiful” project in addition to its direct promotion of Armenia, encourages communities in the Diaspora especially the youth to get involved and participate in activities of their local organizations and become law abiding and exemplary citizens. Thank you again for this great honor which is a great enhancement to my motivation and goal.”

In a further interview, Mr. Boyadjian expressed his sincere gratitude and appreciation to both the ANC and the City of Burbank for their recognition of his efforts with his website and stressed the importance of Armenian participation in local community activities as well as in Armenian organizations.  He encouraged all Armenians to visit their beautiful homeland, purchase products of Armenian origin, and promote their country in all of its aspects.  Mr. Boyadjian stated that one of the most powerful tools of promoting a country is by tourism - it is visitors, both Armenian and non-Armenian, who boost a country's economy - first by their own personal visit and then by encouraging others to visit because of their own positive experiences.  Therefore, Mr. Boyadjian stated, "visiting Armenia because it is beautiful" should be a motto for all Armenians, as well as a personal goal.  Mr. Boyadjian invited all to simply visit www.visitarmenia.org for their own personal enrichment, encouragement to visit and overall enlightenment.  He said, "remember, the only benefit is enriching tourism of our homeland - no other agenda is involved."

The award recipients were further recognized by Certificates of Recognition presented by U.S. Congressman Adam B. Schiff, U.S. Congressman Brad Sherman, State Senator Jack Scott, California State Assembly Majority Leader Dario Frommer, California Assembly Member Carol Liu, and City of Burbank Mayor Todd Campbell.

Mr. Topalian's closing remarks, were followed by live Armenian music and dancing in a friendly and fun-filled atmosphere.

July 2005

Since my last visit to Armenia in September 2004, my wife Shoushan and I planned on returning in the summer of 2005, along with our two daughters and granddaughter. My daughter Lena has been to Armenia at least seven times, many times accompanied by her own family or friends. However, this was to be the first visit for my youngest daughter Lisa and her four-year-old daughter Savannah. We waited anxiously for July 2005.

Arrival and clearance at Zevartnotz airport, once again this year, was easy and without incident. An airport bus transferred us from the airplane to the arrival terminal. This bus transfer may have been because the plane stopped in a different section of the airport than it usually does, in order to allow His Holiness Garegin II Catholicos of All Armenians, who was traveling on our same flight, to depart the plane and be officially met. After claiming our luggage, and clearing customs, which went very smoothly, we were greeted by many old and new friends (whom we have met over the years at each visit) with hugs, flowers, and happy faces. This reunion alone is worth the long trip from Los Angeles to Yerevan.

Over the next three weeks, we re-visited many towns, villages, and sights throughout Armenia so that Lisa and Savannah could also experience and enjoy the very unique and beautiful places. Each day we asked some of our local friends (who are now like family for us) to join our private tour excursion, as it is more fun to share the sites of the country with the locals and hear their input of local customs, and daily life in Armenia. We had a private mini-bus that could seat up to 14 people and traveled to our destinations, singing, laughing and just feeling lucky. It is easy to arrange private tours whether it is by van, mini-bus, bus or private car. I would recommend that larger groups (for vans/buses) reserve the vehicle appropriate for the size of their group when planning their trip to guarantee the availability of their van/bus. For smaller groups, there are various agencies/tour operators in Yerevan that can arrange tours after arrival. However, I suggest that a first time visitor to Armenia make all their arrangements for tours when planning their trip, and not wait to get to Yerevan to schedule their tours.

Another first we experienced this year, was on July 03, 2005, a fun day where youngsters (and the young at heart) throw buckets of water on passers by on the street to celebrate "Vartavar", an old Armenian tradition. (I will write about the origin/meaning of this tradition separately).

I was invited to appear on two live TV shows, and a radio program. The first was at Armenia’s National TV station, ”Hayastan One” morning show with Mariam Ghaplanian and Felix Khachatryan and the second on Yerkir Media TV station with Tigran Haroutyounyan at his variety show. The radio program which aired a live interview was on Vem Radio Station in their program "Economy and Values" with Executive Director and host Manuk Hergnyan.

All of the interviewers were interested to know the reason for the slogan and logo of "Visit Armenia, It is Beautiful" and the details and efforts of how this was being promoted in the Diaspora. Among other questions, each interviewer asked if the Government of Armenia was assisting me in this project. First, I explained why this concept is so important to Armenia, and how people in Armenia and the Diaspora can help spread the word, utilize the logo, and promote Armenia. I invited all Armenians to visit the website, and declared the website and logo as belonging to the Armenian people. I explained that though I did not have specific, actual or planned support from the Government of Armenia, the Deputy Minister of RA Ministry of Economic Development Mr. Ara Petrosyan, with whom I met several times during this visit, as well as my previous visits, personally and through his office, support the concept for which I am thankful. I believe, in due course, as the government and the people realize the real benefits and importance of the tourism industry to our country, everyone will work together to promote Armenia as a tourist destination.

During this visit, I gave several establishments and locations frequented by tourist the "Visit Armenia, It is Beautiful" Logo sticker, which they happily displayed. For example, the souvenirs shop at Garni, Armen’s restaurant in Alahverdi, Mer Taghe bistro on Toumanian in Yerevan, the Kitchen (Khohanotz) at Sardarapad, and on several tour buses.

A new sight this year was the newly erected stone made alphabet Oasis at the foothills of Mount Aragatdz which we stopped at on our way to Ambert fortress. This unique monument was built to commemorate the 1600 year anniversary of the Armenian Alphabet. A great picture taking opportunity. Our next stop was at the church in Oshagan village where St. Mesrob Masdotz is buried. The young priest of the church, Ter Manuel, in addition to his many duties and teachings at the church and village also encourages the talented children of the village to paint religious pictures of saints "Sourpanegar".

Another unofficial statistic I noted, as told by the Deacon who keeps the Christening (Genounk) reservation book at Sourp Etchmiadzin is that the number of Christenings at Etchmiadzin has risen to an average of six to eight per weekday and twelve to fifteen per weekend with a large number from the Diaspora. This was good news.

On this trip, we were lucky that our visit coincided with the visit of the Vartan & Siranoush Gevorkian International Dance Ensemble of Burbank, California. They had several performances at the Opera in Yerevan with over 150 dancers. We were present at the opening night, a full house and enjoyed a spectacular show. I understand that the other performances were just as successful. This same dance school has performed in Armenia in 2001, when again I saw them on my trip.

One of the most pleasing facts I noticed this trip was a varied number of groups of non-Armenian tourists (way more than I had noticed in the past) including a large group of Japanese tourists, and a group of Philippines from London, as well as smaller groups from Germany, France, Italy, Argentina, Australia and the Middle East. (I say that this is a most pleasing fact because one of the main goals of "Visit Armenia, It is Beautiful" is to introduce our country not only to Armenians but to non-Armenians as well.)

I kindly encourage everyone who has traveled to Armenia to tell a friend to visit Armenia, and remember "VISIT ARMENIA, IT IS BEAUTIFUL"

Until my next visit and update to you,

Sirov, Ara

September 2004

I recently returned from a one month trip to Armenia and am glad to report to all who visit our site that things in Armenia have improved tremendously in almost all aspects of life, since I last visited two years ago. In particular I noticed great changes, which positively impact tourists and visitors.

For example, arrival and departure services at Zevartnotz Airport are with ease and speed. Going through immigration, customs and security has improved. There are several new hotels and some of the older hotels have made renovations and improvements. Due to competition, hotel rates are reasonable and an excellent value for the provided accommodations and services. Most hotels provide free business centers and Yerevan is full of cyber cafes at extremely low connection prices. There are several tour bus companies using fully equipped newer buses, minibuses for smaller groups and good quality private cars, for private tours.

Fluent English, French, Russian, German, Spanish, Persian, Arabic and several other languages are spoken by a number of well-educated tour guides. A large number of excellent restaurants are available for both Armenian ethnic and International foods at very reasonable prices. One of the most important and noticeable changes I noticed was improvement is the quality of the service providers, from hotel receptionists, to waiters and even taxi drivers. (This is one of the rare places in the world where I had difficulty convincing the taxi driver accept a tip over his so inexpensive tariff. Local taxi transport is as low as $1.00 – 500 dram)). Most service people are pleasant, young, educated and polite and always wearing a smile.

Of course, there are still many changes and improvements that can be made to Armenia. Tourism to Armenia will keep the growth and improvement of this beautiful country. Keeping in mind that any travel outside of the states to any country may result in culture shock, Armenia is the next best thing to home.

Please Visit Armenia It Is Beautiful and tell a friend.

Sirov, Ara.

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