Fodor’s names Armenia ‘eco-tourists’ dream’
The world’s oldest tourism publication, Fodor’s, has included Armenia on its latest ranking of the most favorite travel destinations.
The 2018 index of interesting tourist sites covers 52 countries. Armenia is the seventh on the list.
“This tiny Caucasus country has an outsize wealth of history, culture, and hospitality. Armenia’s rugged mountains and fertile valleys, full of ancient monasteries and traditional villages, are an eco-tourist’s dream, and new hiking trails and apps are making it easier to explore the country’s great outdoors,” reads the report.
The authors also speak about a 6,000-year-old winery discovered by archaeologists in Areni village (souther province of Syunik) a decade ago, noting that the area’s winemaking and wine tourism has been experiencing a rebirth ever since.
The report also refers to an Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown segment filmed in Armenia and set to air in spring 2018. Addressing the Armenian cuisine, the authors recommend tasting especially the traditional Armenian khorovats (barbecue) and tolma (stuffed grape leaves).
“Though it’s nearly 3,000 years old, capital Yerevan has a youthful energy, with new cafes, wine bars, boutiques, and restaurants opening by the day,” they say.
The authors also recommend downloading the Inside Yerevan map for young locals’ opinionated suggestions of where to eat, drink, shop, and explore.
“Spring and fall are best for outdoor exploration and regional festivals, such as the autumn wine harvest in Vayots Dzor. Yerevan’s 2,800-year-anniversary celebrations in October 2018 are sure to be exuberant,” the authors add.
Among the other countries included in the latest ranking are the United States, Morocco, Ireland, Argentina and Singapore.