About Absolute Armenia

Things to do in Etchmiadzin, Armenia (Vagharshapat) - Zvartnots Cathedral

Barev!  I’m Aram, a traveler with a love for this wonderful and underrated country and want to share it with the world… or at least those looking to travel to Armenia. Absolute Armenia aims to be a resource that can help those coming to Armenia plan their trip and get around the country with ease. I’m constantly working on putting new information on the site, so please bear with me as I do so. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us anytime! I’m happy to help!

About Aram

Aram Vardanyan grew up in Etchmiadzin – the holy city of Armenia. He has lived in both Yerevan and Etchmiadzin and has a real passion for promoting his nation to foreigners. When Aram is not at home in Armenia, he is on the road traveling to various places around the globe from Norway to Thailand to Mauritius and beyond. He is the owner of Absolute Armenia, and Next is Hawaii.

His passions are music (especially heavy metal), sports, and meeting new people. He is very extroverted and gets along with just about everyone and is definitely the more organized and logical of the two.

Aram’s Armenian Favorites

Place to visit in the country:  I love to walk in the old part of the Yerevan and have a coffee in one of Yerevan’s many cozy cafes. I also love to visit the hidden corners of my city, Etchmiadzin, and show guests the historical value of it. Dilijan and Gyumri are two of my favorite places in Armenia to visit.

Food:  Nothing can make my day better than Armenian dolma alongside some fresh greens and cheese.  

Drink:  Mineral water, pilsner, homemade lemonade

Singer or band:  I’m a huge metal fan but I appreciate and respect all good music.

Festival to attend:  Yerevan Wine Days, Urvakan, Areni Wine Festival

Place to hang out in Yerevan:  Epicure, Mirzoyan Library

Underrated attraction in Armenia: Gyumri because it is a city with amazing architecture, hip cafes, cultural heritage, and hospitable people. With proper care and development, it has the potential to become a major touristic city and cultural center for the Caucasus. There are many places in Armenia that are underrated but need a boost.

Armenian brands:  Ararat Brandy

Restaurant in Yerevan:  Yerevan Pandok for Armenian food, Wine Republic for wine and good Thai food.