Hints & Tips

Smooth Arrivals

To make your arrival in Yerevan as smooth as possible, we recommend the following steps:

1. Get off the plane

2. Currency exchange: Right before passport control, you’ll find a Converse Bank booth where you can exchange money for your SIM card and transportation into the city.

3. Passport control

4. Baggage claim

5. SIM card: Just behind baggage claim and before the exit, look for the VivaCell booth. We recommend the Tourist Unlimited Plan for reliable data and calls (4,500 AMD).

6. Customs: Please note that you can bring up to $315 USD worth of new or duty-free goods or up to 10,000 USD cash into Armenia. So if you have a fancy new outfit, de-tag it, just in case 😉

7. Exit: Can be a bit chaotic. Brace yourselves!

8. Transport: See below for more information.

Airport Transfer and Local Transport

We recommend using local transport apps for reliable services such as:

• Yandex Go (iOS, Android): Choose Comfort or Comfort Plus. AVOID using the Basic option.

• GG Taxi (iOS, Android): Opt for Special. AVOID other options.

Alternatively, you can use the Airport Shuttle Bus, which operates daily every 30 minutes from Yerevan Airport to the city between 07:30 and 21:30. Bus number 201 costs just AMD 300 to reach the city center and takes about 30 to 40 minutes.

If needed, please contact us or Katar Taslakyan (via WhatsApp at +374 77359221 or email at katar_taslakyan@yahoo.com) to arrange for an individual taxi driver. This option includes a driver who will wait for you with a sign, making it especially suitable for those arriving at odd hours. However, this service is more expensive than other options.

Important: DO NOT accept rides from taxi drivers who approach you at the airport. Always use the recommended apps or pre-arranged services.

Lastly, ensure you have the appropriate change to avoid frustration or disagreements with taxi drivers.

Currency

The local currency is the Armenian Dram (AMD). 

While ATMs are widely available and credit cards are accepted at almost all businesses in Yerevan, we do recommend carrying local currency for convenience.

You can exchange money at the airport at a currency exchange stall located just before customs after you disembark. Alternatively, supermarkets also offer money exchange facilities with suitable rates.

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Phone/Internet SIM

A local SIM card from VivaCell can be conveniently purchased at the airport, just behind the baggage claim area. Look for the kiosks on the left as you exit. Having a SIM card ensures you will have data to book your airport transport. 

Alternatively, you can buy a SIM card from a VivaCell shop in the city, such as the one located on Northern Avenue.

Language

For ease of communication, we recommend using the Google Translate app during your stay.

Clothing

The weather in Armenia in July is typically hot and dry, but nights can get chilly. Interestingly, last summer brought unexpected rain, so we recommend bringing an umbrella and any essentials you might need for wet weather.

• Pre-Wedding Gathering: Smart casual and comfortable for outdoor games. Heels not recommended, as the event will take place in a garden setting. Evenings can get cool, so bring a light jacket or shawl.

• Wedding: Formal attire is suggested, but please wear whatever makes you feel comfortable. We love all colors, and absolutely none are off limits. Evenings can get cool and windy, so bring a light jacket or shawl.

Communications

Group communications will be coordinated via WhatsApp (iOS, Android) closer to the date.

PUblic water

A pulpulak is a public water fountain commonly found in Armenia and an important part of Armenian culture. The water is completely potable, but if you have a sensitive stomach, we recommend drinking it with caution.

Tipping Culture

In Armenia, restaurants typically include a service fee in the bill, which, ironically, as in other countries, does not go directly to the wait staff. So, it is customary to leave an additional tip of 10-15%.

Additional Tourism

If you would like to explore additional tourism options, we recommend reaching out to Katar Taslakyan (via WhatsApp at +374 77359221 or email at katar_taslakyan@yahoo.com) for assistance. Katar is not only our wedding planner but also a professional tour guide and the Vice President of the Armenian Association of Professional Tourist Guides. Katar specializes in cultural, gastronomic, wine, and hiking tours. Learn more about her here, and visit her Facebook page, Armenia Photo Tour, here, to see stunning photos of Armenia.

Emergency Contacts

If you encounter any issues while in Armenia, please contact Katar Taslakyan via WhatsApp at +374 77359221 for assistance.

We will be adding more hints and tips as we receive questions. Please visit this website regularly for updates!