Khor Virap and 10 Reasons To Visit Armenia

It’s an iconic view, Mount Ararat ascends into the clear blue skies bereft of clouds. The view is known to many around the globe but equally I would dare to presume its name and location are ignorant to billions too. Never has there been a greater opportunity for a country to awaken from its slumber. In Ararat’s shadow lies the historic Monastery of Khor Virap. The Monastery has become probably the most visited pilgrimage site in Armenia, for its roots can be traced back to the third century AD. However it’s not just historians and religious tourists who travel to visit the site, understandably it attracts all motivated parties; photographers, backpackers, artists and cyclists alike just wishing to experience its serenity and the magnificence the all inspiring scenery gives.I should know, I have been to visit it many times. It is where the feelings of love for this deeply Christian, diverse, raw and mountainous country first manifested itself inside of me. Added to this is the joy felt in this location not through the pride of being Armenian by birth, but as an Englishman sharing the country's beauty and huge potential with others.Recently I returned and the experience was I believe a barometer to the country’s future growth and the change economically Armenia is slowly (but surely) seeing. During this day I, my wife and friends interacted in polite conversation with a number of other visitors to the Monastery. These individuals, primarily Armenian based, included a European Project Manager overseeing over 150 projects adding, Administrative, Infrastructure, Health, Agricultural and Legal knowledge and expertise to various multiple working sectors. A returning Armenian (national) working in a Senior Executive role employed in a newly constructed 4 Star Hotel in the countries capital of Yerevan. A Dutch business man recently arrived and basing his Global Consultancy business here. An Armenian female currently developing her online Jewellery manufacturing business for sales and business development to all global environments. An Armenian lady employed in a successful confectionary business. Two German nationals had also come to visit this day as part of their countrywide desire to cycle around the length and breadth of Armenia’s deeply historic and beautiful scenery adding to the Country’s blossoming tourist industry. In fact i would define the top ten reasons to travel to Armenia as:

Ten Reasons To Travel To Armenia.

• The country is genuinely cheaper than any country or location in Europe or Northern America and Russia.

• Sensational Monasteries and churches that date back to the 3rd century AD.

• Inspirational Mountain scenery and geography.

• World renowned for its cuisine, culture and history.

• Mount Ararat. The iconic vision of the mountain famed for Noah's Ark is monumental and awe inspiring.

• Outdoor Pursuits to satisfy all tastes, Walking, Mountaineering,hang gliding. Cycling to name a few.

• Skiing - Tsaghkadzor offers fantastic skiing facilities that are second to none. The financial savings as opposed to Mainland Europe will be enough to take you on another holiday. Trust me.

• Wine Tasting. Discover Armenia,s wonderful wine industry. Enjoy and take pleasure at the countries rich harvest and enjoy some fascinating Armenia tastes to the palate.

• Health and Wellness being. Jermuk is a region that offers alpine scenery, clean air, recreation, rest and recuperation and is famed for offering health treatments that will benefit the body, mind and soul.

• Lastly. The Armenian people are famed for being the most friendly and hospitable in the world. Ensuring you have a completely friendly and relaxing holiday environment with the opportunity of making new friendships that will last a lifetime.

#photo