Liechtenstein Travel Guide - Overview

Liechtenstein seems to be the forgotten corner of Europe; tucked in between Switzerland and Austria, this beautiful country is often overlooked, despite being more than a fair match for its neighbours.

In the summer, hikers and cyclists can traverse the stunning mountain ranges or valleys, while in winter these same areas offer skiing, ice skating and sledging.

Pretty villages with quaint chapels dot the land, while the capital Vaduz, with its stunning hill-top castle, has plenty of history, and shops, to explore.

With its intrinsic links to Switzerland and low tax, Liechtenstein's population is one of the most prosperous in the world, so you won't be the only one smiling when you're there.

Latvia Travel Guide - Overview

Latvia is a small country on the Baltic Sea with ancient history and traditions. If you want to enjoy nature, there is not only the serene Gulf of Riga and the open Baltic Sea, but also nature parks, lakes and beautiful forests.

Old Riga offers not only fabulous architectural monuments, but also various nightclubs and pubs. According to legend, once every 100 years the devil rears his head from the waters of Riga's River Daugava and asks whether Riga is ‘ready’ yet. If the answer is ‘yes’, the now nearly 900-year-old city will be condemned to sink into the waters.

For now, however, there is no chance of Latvia being 'ready' to sink. Long the Baltic favourite, Latvia is now also beginning to emerge as a tourist destination further afield, championed as one of Europe's hidden treasures. Those who visit will appreciate the small picturesque medieval towns, country castles, museums and folk parks, ruined fortresses and, occasionally, grand palaces. They will also appreciate the little Latvian quirks still entrenched in customs, crafts and culture.

Kosovo Travel Guide - Overview

The world's newest nation state, Kosovo is an eye-opening destination for adventurous travellers. It offers many historic landmarks, beautiful mountains and traditional towns, which are all within easy reach of the capital, Pristina.

The tiny, impoverished territory unilaterally declared itself independent from neighbouring Serbia on 17th February 2008 to great jubilation within the country but mixed reactions abroad. Located in the heart of the Balkans, Kosovo is populated by 90% ethnic Albanians, and has for many centuries been the stage for tension between its Serb and ethnic Albanian inhabitants.

A landlocked and largely agricultural country, Kosovo is now one of Europe's poorest nations. It was administered by the UN for many years following conflict in the 1990s and fears that Slobodan Milosevic was planning ethnic cleansing. Some 100,000 Serbs remain following a post-war exodus of non-Albanians.

Serbia, which regards the region as its historic birthplace and reminiscent of a Serbian ‘golden age', has vowed never to accept Kosovo's independence.

Italy Travel Guide - Overview

Stylish, cultured, good-humoured and volatile - Italy, with its golden light, stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, has inspired poets and painters for centuries. Perhaps more than any other country, it has influenced the course of European development, particularly in culture and political thought.

Today, besides the renowned cities of Venice, Florence, Siena and Naples, each with its own unique identity and architecture, Italy features romantic medieval hill towns, such as San Gimignano in Tuscany, and unspoilt fishing villages, like Positano on the Amalfi coast. Operatic productions are staged in Verona's ancient amphitheatre, while the influence of Federico Fellini is celebrated in Turin's museum of cinema.

Throughout the country visitors can find vineyards and cellars to taste fine regional wines, workshops where crafts are produced by hand, and friendly trattorie where simple but superb dishes are served.

The most important early settlers were the enigmatic Etruscans, but by the third century BC their culture had been displaced by the mighty city state of Rome.

At its greatest extent, the Roman Empire stretched from Egypt to England and for several centuries conferred on its inhabitants the benefits of the Pax Romana: culture, law, relative peace and comparative prosperity. This sophisticated society left a rich architectural legacy - Rome is still dominated by buildings like the mighty Colosseum.

In the 15th century, Italy was at the heart of the Renaissance, an extraordinary flowering of art and culture. It produced artists such as Fra Angelico, Raphael, Botticelli, Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci, whose works take pride of place in Italy's galleries.

Italy combines art, history and contemporary fashion with stunning natural landscapes: the turquoise waters of Sardinia's Costa Smeralda offer one of Europe's most beautiful stretches of sand, sea and sunshine, while the snow-covered slopes of the Dolomite mountains are a haven for winter sports enthusiasts.

Ireland Travel Guide - Overview

As far as tourist appeal goes, the small island of Ireland punches far above its own weight. The country is so packed with delights that visitors are often reduced to describing its charms in hyperbolic clichés: it is the greenest country, full of the friendliest people, all of whom would be geniuses if they weren't distracted by the lure of the pub.

Ireland is indeed a green country - so much rainfall must have its benefits - and the people are justifiably renowned for their friendliness. As for the geniuses, well, the Irish will proudly point to their four Nobel Laureates for Literature and declare that the success rate is unmatched in any other country of its size, all the while ensuring that the sacred 'round' system (where everyone buys a drink for everyone else in turn) is strictly adhered to.

Yet Ireland's charms run far deeper than the legendary craic of the pub or the accomplishments of a bunch of (mostly) dead writers. It has a remarkable history that is woven into virtually everything, from the prehistoric stone monuments of the Boyne Valley to the monuments honouring its fallen patriots, men and women who dared challenge the imperious might of its longtime occupier and contemporary friend, Britain.

It has a vibrant and dynamic capital, Dublin, which has spearheaded a stunning period of economic growth that has seen the country transformed from rural backwater to the envy of Europe. As a result, the Irish have grown in worldliness that continues to propel them to greater heights of achievement. Even the thorniest issue of all - Northern Ireland - has seen a kind of resolution and Ireland looks to the future with untrammelled confidence.

Iceland Travel Guide - Overview

Iceland is a large island in the North Atlantic close to the Arctic Circle. The landscape is wild, rugged and colourful, with black lava, red sulphur, hot blue geysers, rivers, waterfalls and green valleys. Its coastline is richly indented with bays and fjords.

Iceland is one of the most volcanically active countries in the world. Hekla, in the south of Iceland, has erupted no fewer than 16 times, and was once described by clergymen as the gateway to Hell. Certainly, Iceland's seething mountains contribute towards this sense of otherworldliness.

Yet around the coastal regions, Iceland is a bustle of activity, particularly in the capital city, Reykjavík, where more than half of Iceland's population lives. Reykjavík is set on a broad bay, surrounded by mountains, and is in an area of geothermal hot springs, creating a natural central heating system and pollution-free environment. It is a busy city combining old-fashioned wooden architecture and modern buildings. Despite being a relatively small capital city, Reykjavík has managed to forge a reputation for partying, and its nightclubs and bars are regularly filled with hordes of fun-loving citizens.

Whether you wish to quietly watch for birds or whales, or prefer to get active and ski, glacier skidoo or horse ride, Iceland amply provides for both.

Hungary Travel Guide - Overview

The small country of Hungary (Magyarország), surrounded by a sea of Slavs, is unique for its language, culture and ability to survive. Settled by the Magyars (a Finno-Ugric tribe who arrived via Russia in the ninth century), the country and its people have remained true to their heritage despite Mongol invasion in the 13th century, Turkish occupation in the 16th and 17th centuries, Austrian rule in the 18th and early 19th centuries, and communist domination in the mid 20th century.

The pride locals have for their nation is immense, but it doesn't spring solely from the stalwart strength of their nation. Hungary is also home to historic urban centres and evocative landscapes, not to mention quality wines, rejuvenating thermal springs, and a thriving arts and music scene.

Budapest, the capital, is a fantastic city split in two by the Danube. Buda is older, hillier, and more graceful, while Pest is the commercial centre dotted by gorgeous art nouveau buildings. Budapest contains the country's best bars and clubs, and has been a long time haven for writers, artists and musicians. Other centres, such as Eger, Pécs, Szentendre and Sopron, to name but a few, are vibrant cities with rich histories and stunning architecture.

The Puszta, a seemingly unending prairie topped by big skies, is the country's defining landscape, but Hungary's outdoor beauty doesn't stop there. There are 11 national parks and hundreds of protected areas to explore, along with Lake Balaton, Europe's largest body of fresh water, a multitude of meandering rivers and thousands of acres of vineyards and orchards. And at the end of a hard day sightseeing, there's no better place to relax than in one of Hungary's 150 thermal spas, some of which date back to Roman days.

Greece Travel Guide - Overview

Often cited as the birthplace of European civilization, Greece offers a heady mix of ancient archaeological sites, chic design hotels, rustic tavernas, family-orientated seaside resorts and hedonistic dance clubs.

Ancient Greece reached its zenith in the fifth century BC when Athens became the cultural and artistic centre of the Mediterranean, producing magnificent works of architecture, sculpture, drama and literature.

There is no denying that the historical and cultural heritage of Greece continues to resonate throughout the modern Western world - in its literature, art, philosophy and politics. In fact, many travellers come here specifically to explore Greece's ancient wonders, from Athens' Parthenon and Delphi's Temple of Apollo, to the ruins of the Minóan city of Knossós on Crete.

Scattered throughout the calm blue waters of the Aegean and the Ionian are Greece's 1,400 islands - each with its own special story. The serenity of islands like Kefalonia and Amorgos contrasts with the hedonistic party islands such as Mykonos and Páros. Those interested in architecture should visit the medieval fortified towns of Rhodes and Corfu (both UNESCO World Heritage sites), and the whitewashed cubic houses of Thira and Oia on Santorini, typical of the Cyclades.

Sports enthusiasts will relish the Greek islands for their endless opportunities for scuba diving and sailing (there's no better way to explore the islands than aboard a chartered yacht), while keen hikers and mountain bikers can test their stamina in the rugged mountains of the country's largest island, Crete. And let's not forget, Greece's previous glory in sports was restored when the Olympic Games returned home in 2004.

Gibraltar Travel Guide - Overview

Known as the the 'Rock', Gibraltar contains 143 caves, over 48km (30 miles) of road and miles of tunnels. From rock touring, to sailing, diving, fishing and birdwatching, visitors will be pleasantly surprised with the diverse range of attractions on offer in Gibraltar.

Located at the southernmost tip of the Iberian Peninsula, where Europe meets Africa, visitors are also assured of breathtaking scenery, wildlife and architecture, that captures the unique flavour of this Mediterranean city. As a VAT-free jurisdiction, Gibraltar's popularity with visitors is further enhanced by its value added shopping experience in famed Main Street.

Gibraltar derives from Gibel Tariq (Tariq’s Mountain) which is named after Tariq Ibn Zeyad who led the eighth-century conquest of Spain by a combined force of Arabs and Berbers crossing from Africa. Gibraltar’s unusual status was not acquired until almost 1,000 years later, long after the Islamic invaders had been driven out by the Spanish, as a consequence of the 1713 Treaty of Utrecht which brought to an end the War of the Spanish Succession and gave the territory to Britain.

The British interpretation of the treaty moreover holds that the territory was ceded to them indefinitely. The presence of a foreign-owned mini-state on the Spanish mainland has been an irritant to Anglo-Spanish relations ever since.

In response to the latest round of talks between London and Madrid which began in 2001 and explored in detail possible joint sovereignty models, the Gibraltar government led by Peter Caruana organised a referendum in November 2002 to assess the popular mood. As expected, it returned a huge majority in favour of the status quo.

Germany Travel Guide - Overview

Wherever you venture in Germany, there is something interesting to see or do. It is a goldmine for the adventurous tourist in search of something different to the norm.

The country has now firmly shaken off the shadows of its 20th century past, regained a sense of national pride, and breathed a sigh of relief at its new-found ability to express its distinctive national character again.

Modern Germany has come of age, and while it is still suffering the economic consequences of reunification in October 1990, Europe's most populous country is clearly a nation coming to terms with itself. Massive investment in the long-neglected infrastructure of the former East is paying off, as cities like Dresden once more begin to shine like the jewels they were in the past.

The country is the product of a long history of division, first as a loose collection of independent (and often warring) states before original unification during the 19th century, and latterly as West and communist East Germany following WWII.

For this reason alone, it is a country of remarkable diversity, with cultural differences clearly evident as one travels around the various states that make up the modern Federal Republic.

Germany boasts a heady mix of history and nature, fine arts and youthful rebellion. Its capital, Berlin, has a reputation gained from its decades as a divided city, as a hedonistic, ‘on the edge' community where almost anything goes. In contrast, the quiet academic surroundings of historic university cities like Heidelberg, convey a peacefulness quite at odds with the atmosphere of the capital.

French Overseas Possessions Travel Guide - Overview

Scattered throughout the world are several French Départements d’Outre-Mer (DOM, overseas departments), Territoires d’Outre-Mer (TOM, overseas territories), Collectivités Territoriales and one overseas country (New Caledonia). The following DOM-TOM all have their own sections in the World Travel Guide: French Guiana, Guadeloupe, Martinique, New Caledonia, Réunion and Tahiti. Basic information is given here on the others. Further information on all of the French Overseas Possessions can be obtained from French embassies; see France section.

French Overseas Departments:
There are four Départements d’Outre-Mer, each one an integral part of the French Republic. Guadeloupe (also including the islands of St Martin and St Barthélemy) and Martinique are in the Caribbean. French Guiana is on the northwest coast of South America. Réunion is in the Indian Ocean. Despite the greater autonomy achieved with the formation of their own individual Regional Councils in 1974, each French Overseas Department still returns elected representatives to the Senate and National Assembly in Paris, as well as to the European Parliament in Strasbourg.

French Overseas Territories:
Like the French Overseas Departments, the three Territoires d’Outre-Mer are integral parts of the French Republic. Tahiti (French Polynesia) is in the central South Pacific and, although it has been a French territory since 1946, it received autonomous status in 1996. French Southern and Antarctic Territories are located in the Southern Indian Ocean and the Wallis and Futuna Islands are located in the southwest Pacific. However, each one is administered by an appointed representative of the French government, and the level of autonomy is restricted.

Overseas Collectivités Territoriales:
There are two Overseas Collectivités Territoriales that have a status in between that of an Overseas Department and an Overseas Territory. Mayotte is located off the northwest coast of Madagascar and St-Pierre et Miquelon are found near Newfoundland, Canada. They are integral parts of the French Republic and are administered by a Prefect appointed by the French government.

French Overseas Country:
New Caledonia, located in the South Pacific, east of Australia and formerly an Overseas Territory, became the only Overseas Country in 1999 following the Nouméa Accord in 1998. The French government is represented in New Caledonia by the high commissioner and two deputies are also elected to the National Assembly in Paris.

France Travel Guide - Overview

It is nigh impossible not to like France. As the late French president Charles de Gaulle once remarked, ‘How could one describe a country which has 365 kinds of cheese?' There are myriad attractions in this deeply compelling and multifaceted land that draw millions of visitors back year after year.

France's charms are manifest, whether it is the chic boulevards of Paris, the sparkling ski slopes of the Alps, sunlit vineyards and sun-baked beaches, a dusty game of boules, or coffee and croissants in an undiscovered village. Or perhaps a tour of the majestic chateaux of the Loire, the glamorous jet-set lifestyle of the Mediterranean, or a relaxing picnic in Provence, where the air is fragrant with wild herbs and lavender?

Consider also the delights of other lesser-known regions such as Franche-Comté, Gascony or Berry, deep in the green heart of France - regions firmly rooted to the land, whose sleepy villages offer visitors a chance to sample life in provincial France, and the unspoilt and rugged atmosphere of the island of Corsica, described as ‘a mountain in the sea'.

Eager to avoid a repeat of the destruction caused by two world wars, France was a founding member of the European Union. It continues to be a driving force behind the EU's progress towards economic and political harmonisation and is still active in almost every other part of the world. This arises from a combination of historical reasons (its colonies and self-image as a nuclear and world power), coupled with a desire to confront America-centric global dominance. France also proudly covets its title of the world's number one tourist destination, and this uniquely appealing country has little trouble in tempting first timers back for numerous repeat visits.

Finland Travel Guide - Overview

Finland, the quiet sibling of the Nordic countries, has a down-to-earth natural purity that makes it an exceptionally rewarding place to visit.

Across the south, cultural differences reflect a turbulent history. The picturesque Swedish-speaking wooden towns of the west coast and the onion-domed Orthodox churches of Karelia in the east speak of Finland's oft-repeated role as the rope in a tug of war between Sweden and Russia. In the middle were the stoic Finns, a loyal and warmhearted people with a gloriously independent and idiosyncratic streak. Even the urban technocrats love to get back to basics, chopping wood or hunting for mushrooms from their lakeside cabins.

In far-northern Lapland, the Sámi people still herd their reindeer in the vast swathes of sparsely populated wilderness - at least when they're not podcasting: Finland is one of the most technologically advanced countries in the world. It is also renowned for its design and architecture, particularly strong in the capital Helsinki, a clean, modern and buzzy place, with a strong tradition of artistic and musical innovation and a beautiful coastline and harbour.

Finland is shaped by its climate, and Finns take advantage of their short but intense summers. The country explodes into life with a bewildering array of festivals and celebrations, ranging from Savonlinna's prestigious opera extravaganza to the tongue-in-cheek humour of the Air Guitar World Championships.

Fabulous forests and lakes cover almost 80% of the country and this, plus the excellent network of national parks, makes it a tempting destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Trekking and canoeing are obvious choices, but a trip in winter can offer cross-country skiing, ice-fishing, snowmobiling or a sled safari with a team of huskies or reindeer. And it is hard to beat a traditional wood-fired sauna at the end of the day.

Estonia Travel Guide - Overview

Estonia, bordered by the Baltic Sea, the Russian Federation and Latvia, and the most northerly of the three former Soviet Baltic republics, is a country of great scenic beauty with many forests, lakes and islands.

Estonia is an unspoilt, sparsely populated country, nearly half of which is covered with forests. Wetlands, together with primeval forests, represent preserved communities which have for the most part been destroyed in Europe. More than 1,000 lakes (5% of the Estonian territory) dot the countryside, which is relatively flat - almost two thirds of the territory lies less than 50m (164ft) above sea level. While 7,000 rivers and streams carry rainwater to the sea, bogs and wooded swamplands of different types cover over one fifth of the country - a world index topped only by the northern neighbour, Finland.

The history of Estonia (and indeed of the other Baltic States) has been one of constant struggle to maintain independence and national integrity against the predatory instincts of larger neighbours. The Russians who were determined to secure a ‘window onto the Baltic’ for economic as well as strategic reasons acquired Estonia from Sweden, at the Treaty of Nystadt, in 1721.

Following the German invasion of the Soviet Union during WWII, Estonia became one of the 15 Soviet Socialist Republics. Four decades passed before the advent of Mikhail Gorbachev who, as Communist Party General Secretary, offered the prospect of change for the Baltic States.

In 1990, the Estonian Communist Party voted in favour of full independence from the Soviet Union but allowed for a six-month transitional period before making the decision final. Rapid international recognition of Estonia as a sovereign state, followed by admission to the United Nations, completed the transition to full nationhood. Estonia joined the European Union in 2004.

Denmark Travel Guide - Overview

Jutland and its 400 surrounding islands form one of Europe's smallest countries. Denmark has an abundance of picturesque villages and towns, historic castles and monuments, and a coastline that varies from broad sandy beaches to small coves and gentle fjords.

Throughout the country, low rolling hills provide a constant succession of attractive views; there are cool and shady forests of beech trees, extensive areas of heathland, a beautiful lake district, sand dunes and white cliffs resembling those of Dover; nor should one forget the Danish islands, each of which has its own unique attractions.

The Danes have taken strong measures to keep their coastline clean and tidy, keen for visitors to sample the many unspoilt beaches. Inland from the 4,800km (3,000 miles) of beaches and unspoiled islands, you'll find a landscape eminently suitable for cycling. Ferries ply between the mainland and the islands, competing with awesome bridges like the 16km (10 miles) Øresund link to Sweden. Ranks of huge white wind turbines are a feature of the modern Danish landscape.

Amidst such tranquillity, it now seems almost surreal to consider that this country once spawned a notoriously violent seafaring race of people, the Vikings, feared throughout northwest Europe. Today, visitors to Denmark find a country that is peaceful, introspective, neutral and egalitarian. Its hallmarks are world-class design and uniformly high standards that apply equally to its accommodation and transport. Cuisine is excellent, especially in the realm of dairy products and scrumptious pastries. Add to this a people both amiable and helpful, with a facility for languages, and the result is an overwhelming sense of welcome.

Copenhagen is a wonderful cobblestoned city with many quaint medieval streets and buildings, but there is more to Denmark than its capital, and any visitor to the country is strongly advised to explore elsewhere too.

Czech Republic Travel Guide - Overview

A historic jewel hidden away at the heart of Europe, the Czech Republic packs a lot of punch for such a small country. No bigger than Scotland or South Carolina, it's crammed with fairytale castles, medieval towns, elegant spa resorts and scenic national parks. And on top of all that, it's the birthplace of the world's finest beer.

Part of Czechoslovakia until the 'Velvet Divorce' of 1993, the Czech Republic encompasses the ancient lands of Bohemia and Moravia, and boasts a rich cultural heritage represented by the likes of classical composer Antonin Dvorak and writer Franz Kafka.

Almost everyone who visits the Czech Republic goes to Prague, with its imposing castle, great museums and galleries, jazz clubs and concerts and other attractions. Many day trips are possible from here, including the spa resort of Karlovy Vary, the historic towns of Mělník and Kutná Hora, and castles like Karlštejn and Konopiště.

But the rest of the country has just as much to offer the independent traveller, with no fewer than 11 UNESCO World Heritage sites including the picture-postcard town of Český Krumlov, the chateaux and landscaped gardens of Lednice-Valtice, and the Renaissance architecture of Telč.

Among the most beautiful scenic areas are the Šumava National Park in the southwest, which takes in the forested mountains and lakes around the headwaters of the Vltava River, the wierd and wonderful rock pinnacles and gorges of the Adršpach-Teplice Rocks in the northeast, and the spectacular caves and underground rivers of the Moravian Karst in the southeast.

The rich agricultural area of Moravia in the eastern half of the country offers rolling ranges of wooded hills, vineyards, folk art and yet more castles. Here wine is more popular than beer - a speciality of Bohemia - and life moves at an even more relaxed pace.

Cyprus Travel Guide - Overview

Fall in love with Aphrodite's isle, where legend has it the goddess of love arose from the waves, and discover ancient UNESCO-listed sites, wonderful beaches and crystal clear waters. Although compact, this attractive island offers a rich variety of landscapes from pine-clad mountains to golden sandy beaches.

The best holiday beaches are found around Ayia Napa and Protaras, where warm turquoise seas lap gently shelving sands and watersports abound. Thrilling waterskiing and even kite-surfing are offered at the main resorts along with fun-filled water parks and boat trips.

There's a buzzing neon-lit nightlife scene in the main towns and a burgeoning cafe culture in Nicosia, Limassol and on Larnaca's mile-long beachfront promenade.

Cypriots are happiest when eating so join them for a mezze, a slow banquet of Cypriot delicacies such as grilled halloumi, dolmades and kleftiko, lamb slowly baked till it drops off the bone.

The stunning Troodos mountains with Mount Olympus at its peak is the place to work up an appetite. With its charming hilltop villages and vine-blessed slopes, it offers a cool relief from the intense heat in summer and a chance to enjoy hiking, cycling, bird watching and, in winter, skiing.

Meanwhile, the rugged Akamas National Park is the place to see unspoilt nature. It's here that protected loggerhead turtles return to beautiful Lara Bay each year to lay their eggs.

Venetian walls, Crusader castles and Roman mosaics, which appear at every turn, are testament to Cyprus's 10,000-year history.

The opening of the border with Northern Cyprus and removal of the barrier dividing Ledra Street in Nicosia, put in place when the Turks invaded in 1974, are reminders of its recent political past.

Cyprus has undergone significant modernisation following its entry into the European Union. A modern country with an ancient history, its stone villages, glitzy resorts, scented citrus groves and perfumed mountains are waiting to be discovered.

Croatia Travel Guide - Overview

With a coastline that stretches thousands of kilometres, more than 1,000 offshore islands, and where a mild Mediterranean climate eases you through the worst ravages of autumn and winter, Croatia's appeal is obvious. Throw in chocolate-box pretty Venetian old towns, whose terracotta roof tiles find themselves in the starring role of many an iconic photograph, rugged mountain ranges and melt-in-the-mouth Adriatic seafood, and the cocktail becomes even more intoxicating.

Although the coast is undoubtedly the shining star of Croatia tourism, off the beaten track the country also boasts undulating hills in inland Istria, where ornate hilltop towns, great food, good domestic wine and a proliferation of black and white truffles has earned it favourable comparisons with Tuscany. In the north of the country the historic castles of the Zagorje and more rolling green hills await.

The oft ignored region of Slavonia, in the east of the country, rewards a visit with the stately riverside city of Osijek and the unquashable spirit of Vukovar, which is still fighting back from the worst ravages of the Homeland War, as well as vineyards and castles of its own. First-time visitors to the country's capital, Zagreb, quickly shrug off anachronistic images of communist era deprivations, as they are greeted by a vibrant and grand metropolis complete with all the trappings of modern day life, an attractive old town and lush green spaces.

A haven for gastronomes and sun worshippers alike, Croatia is also emerging as an adventure destination. Unspoiled countryside lends itself to cycling and hiking, as well as serious mountaineering, while the expansive coastline is perfect for almost every type of watersport imaginable. The Island of Brac even hosts the annual Vanka Regule extreme sports festival. When it comes to sailing, Croatia is legendary, with myriad marinas and islands on hand up and down the coast.

Bulgaria Travel Guide - Overview

Bulgaria, one of the EU's newest members (joining in January 2007), has been through mammoth changes in the last few years. Many of the cities and resorts have been undergoing construction booms galore, tempting buyers from Western Europe with relatively cheap property.

Bulgaria's beach and ski resorts are expanding quickly as a result. The main cities have shrugged off their weary Communist-era image and have become vibrant and attractive, with well-kept boulevards, varied shopping and lively nightlife.

Spectacular mountains occupy half the country's territory and the swathe of golden beaches along the 370km- (232-mile-) long Black Sea bring in hordes of tourists from around the world.

Visitors can stay in towns and villages that have aimed to preserve the authentic Bulgarian spirit and hospitality. Bulgaria is especially proud of its rich folklore traditions, and folk dances, music, national costumes and traditional rituals play an important part in the life of Bulgarians.

Bulgaria has had a turbulent history and recently experienced radical political changes. Having been a satellite of the Soviet Union for nearly half a century, Bulgaria chose its first democratically-elected president, Zhelyu Zhelev, in 1990. A constitution was adopted in 1991, the political parties were restored, and privatisation and restitution of the land started. Such changes escalated in the run-up, and subsequent accession, to the European Union in 2007.

Bosnia and Herzegovina Travel Guide - Overview

When thinking of Bosnia & Herzegovina, it is difficult not to focus on the Yugoslav wars that blighted the Balkan region for much of the 1990s. At a loss of hundreds of thousands of lives, huge landmass was shredded into civil combat. Much of Bosnia & Herzegovina's landscape is still riddled with mines, and ramshackle buildings loll across its towns and villages. However, the country remains beautiful, and its winding aqua rivers have lost none of their lustre.

Although economic stagnation and international isolation is yet to be overcome, there is positive history in abundance, from stunning old mosques to amphitheatres and Catholic shrines. Countryside varies from woodland to mountains to rolling hills. Perhaps most wonderful is the rebuilt bridge in Mostar - what used to be a pre-war ancient overpass. Now re-opened to the public, it is hard not to walk across it and hope it symbolic of new beginnings.

Belgium Travel Guide - Overview

Belgium always had a lot more going for it than the faceless political and bureaucratic buildings that litter the outskirts of its capital, Brussels, would have you believe. A string of engaging historic cities such as Bruges, Ghent, Liège, Namur (and Brussels itself) offer impressive architecture, lively nightlife, first-rate cuisine and numerous other attractions for visitors. Today, the anachronistic images of ‘boring Belgium' have been well and truly banished, as more and more people discover its very individual charms for themselves.

There is reinvented Antwerp, a hotbed of fashion and slick modern design, along with the more bucolic charms of the beautiful mountainous Ardennes region to the east, and the delightfully picturesque Meuse Valley as well as the sweeping sand of the coastline resorts of the western seaboard. Belgium is also a land whose specialities include ubiquitous beers, delicate chocolates, moules frites and Belgian waffles.

Easy to both access and to travel around, pocket-sized Belgium is divided into the Flemish north (Flemish-speaking) and the Walloon south (French-speaking). Brussels, the capital, is the heart of both the country and the European Union, as well as the headquarters of NATO.

Belgium's democracy is of the typically stable, cautiously progressive, western-European liberal type. The principal domestic problem is continuing tension between the Flemish-speaking north and the French-speaking south of the country. However, throughout the years, Belgium has evolved towards an efficient federal system. Five reforms have been necessary to achieve this (in 1970, 1980, 1988-89, 1993 and 2001). In 2005, Belgium celebrated 25 years of federalism and for the first time ever, article one of the Belgian Constitution stated that 'Belgium is a federal state made out of communities and regions'.

Belarus Travel Guide - Overview

Previously known by the name Belorussia (White Russia), the name Belarus was adopted when the country became independent from the Soviet Union as the USSR disintegrated in 1991.

The post-independence leadership was keen to maintain political and economic links with Moscow and was a leading proponent of the creation of the Commonwealth of Independent States – a loose alliance of ex-Soviet republics that came into being shortly afterwards and whose headquarters were in the Belarusian capital of Minsk.

Belarus’s close links with Russia has led the country into deeper international isolation. Today, the majority of all industry remains under the control of the state and is heavily regulated. Foreign investment has been limited due to an unfriendly business environment. Belarus’s human rights record since President Lukashenko came to power in 1994 has been poor.

Despite this, Belarus does not deserve its reputation as a transit area on the way to or from Russia. Wide plains, picturesque villages, ancient castles and monasteries, deep forests, scenic landscapes, and thousands of lakes await nature-lovers, culture fans and sport enthusiasts. One-third of the Belarusian territory is covered with forests where birches, oaks, maple and pine trees dominate with a rich and diverse fauna: here one can find European bison, elk and deer, wild boar and wolf, bear and fox, beaver and lynx — not to mention myriad birds. Belarus also has a unique history and a rich cultural heritage, with hundreds of architectural monuments dating back to the 12th century.

Austria Travel Guide - Overview

Austria is a country of startling contrasts, from the Alps in the west to the Danube Basin in the east. One of the world's premier skiing regions, it is also noted for its historical buildings, world-class museums and galleries, and breathtaking mountain scenery.

The country's glorious architectural riches include reminders of the once-powerful Hapsburgs, who dominated central Europe for seven centuries. The capital, Vienna, is magnificent with its ornate Opera House and the imperial Hofburg. Austria's other cities are similarly infused with historical magic, notably Mozart's birthplace, Salzburg, with stunning baroque churches set before a backdrop of snow-covered peaks, and Innsbruck, in the centre of Austria's Alps.

Austria has produced and inspired a catalogue of cultural figures. During the 17th and 18th centuries, Austria - and, in particular, Vienna - became a focal point of the cultural renaissance. Remnants of Mozart's legacy are everywhere. However, Austria has also yielded people such as artists Klimt and Schiele, composers Mahler and Schubert, psychologists Freud and Rank, and philosophers such as Husserl and Wittgenstein.

Austria is a hothouse of striking contemporary architecture and is at the forefront of engineering, invention and design. It enjoys an enduring reputation for music, literature and the arts; visitors are just as likely to find Alpine New Wave punk-rock as they are yodelling. Gourmet culture is evident in the cafes where coffee-drinking has been raised to a high art. Nightlife is versatile, offering laid-back taverns, beer gardens and excellent après-ski, trendy clubs and dance venues.

Celebrations marking events such as the recent 250th anniversary of Mozart's death and Haydn's 200th anniversary in 2009 underline Austria's desire to embrace its rich past. Yet it also proudly fosters its contemporary cultural and social scene. Regardless, staring at a classic Austrian landscape is a reminder that some things are timeless.

Andorra Travel Guide - Overview

Almost hidden in the eastern Pyrenees, the tiny Principality of Andorra is a land of narrow valleys and mountainous landscapes, bordered by France and Spain.

Most of the settlements can be found along the main road that traverses the country - many villages or hamlets are filled with Romanesque churches and houses built in the local style. Others, off the main road, are even more unspoilt, and provide spectacular views across the rugged countryside.

Andorra is one of the oldest nations in Europe, originally established by Charlemagne as a buffer state against the Iberian muslims. As a result of the Paretages of 1278 and 1288, control of the country was split between the Spanish Bishop of Urgell and a nominee appointed by the King of France (initially the Count de Foix) and subsequently by the French emperors and presidents. This unique power-sharing arrangement lasted until the late 20th century when the present constitution formally enshrined Andorra as a principality.

Albania Travel Guide - Overview

It is mainly people that have never been to Albania who are responsible for the country's bad press. Those who discover Albania for themselves usually return singing the praises of its friendly, tolerant people, its fascinating Ottoman cities and other historical sites and its magnificent mountain scenery and charming villages.

Albania has something to offer almost everyone. Hikers will love the Albanian Alps or the Tomorri massif, whilst cyclists will find a network of ancient tracks criss-crossing the country. Those who are interested in archaeology can spend hours in the complex sites of Butrint and Byllis. History-lovers can explore ancient castles, Ottoman fortresses and the museum cities of Berati and Gjirokastra. Art connoisseurs should visit the little-known medieval churches, with their beautiful frescoes, and the icon collections in Tirana, Korça and Berati. And gourmets will enjoy the delicious seafood, mountain lamb, organic fruit and vegetables and, of course, Albania's excellent wine.

Uzbekistan Travel Guide - Overview

The country boasts some of the finest architectural jewels among the Silk Road countries, featuring intricate Islamic tile work, turquoise domes, minarets and preserved relics from the time when Central Asia was a centre of empire and learning. Good examples of this architecture can be found in the ancient walled city of Khiva in Urgench, the winding narrow streets of the old town of Bukhara and Samarkand, known locally as the ‘Rome of the Orient'.

The Ferghana Valley, surrounded by the Tian Shan and Pamir mountains, still produces silk and is well worth visiting for its friendly bazaars and landscape of cotton fields, mulberry trees and fruit orchards. Uzbekistan's mountain ranges attract hikers, cyclists and backcountry skiers, while experienced mountaineers come to climb some of the world's highest peaks.

The territory of modern-day Uzbekistan and its close neighbours have seen many empires rise and fall. The Sogdians, the Macedonians, the Huns, the Mongolians, the Seljuks, the Timurids and the Khanates of Samarkand, Bukhara Khiva and Khorezm all held sway here at one time or another. Central Asia really came of age with the development of the Silk Road from China to the West. Samarkand and Bukhara lay astride this, the most valuable trading route of its day. The riches that it brought were used to build fabulous mosques and madrassars, most of which were destroyed by the Mongol hordes in the 13th century. Much of the damage was repaired and new cities were built by Timur the Lame in the 14th century.

The Russians had had their eyes on the lands over their southern border since Peter the Great sent his first military mission to Khiva in 1717. It was to be another 150 years before they started to make any considerable headway. In 1865, General Kaufmann took Tashkent and signed agreements with the Khans. There were Russian client Khans in Khiva until 1920. The Bolsheviks were resisted in Central Asia by bands known as Basmachi until the 1930s; they were finally suppressed and Moscow took control. Uzbekistan declared independence from the Soviet Union in 1991.

Today Uzbekistan is bordered by Afghanistan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan.

Turkmenistan Travel Guide - Overview

The territory of what is now Turkmenistan provided the bedrock for many of the most powerful empires of their age. The Parthians, the Seljuks and the Khans of Khoresm all based their empires at various points on the edge of the Kara-Kum Desert, while Alexander the Great conquered the region during his epic campaign of the fourth century BC. The influence of Islam dates from the seventh century AD, when the region was under Arab control. Modern-day Turkmen are descended from tribes that migrated to the area in the 10th century from the northeast.

Almost all the attractions lie around the fringes of the desert and in ancient ruins such as Merv (now Mary). The capital, Ashgabat, is a modern city. It replaced the one founded in 1881, which was destroyed in an earthquake in 1948. The Sunday market here is the best place to buy Turkmen carpets. Mary, due east of Ashgabat, is Turkmenistan's second city and lies near the remains of Merv, which was once the second city of Islam until Ghengis Khan's son Toloi reduced it to rubble in 1221.

Turkmenistan's harsh desert conditions and terrain mean that tourism has been relatively undeveloped. Another reason is that since independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, the country has remained largely closed to the outside world under the rule of President Niyazov, who died in December 2006. It is effectively a one-party state, governed by the Democratic Party of Turkmenistan, which comprises mostly former communists. Although the country benefits from from its oil and gas deposits, its economy remains underdeveloped due to the low presence of foreign investors. It remains to be seen whether Niyazov's death will bring about the changes needed to encourage foreign investment and tourism.

Tajikistan Travel Guide - Overview

Tajikistan's mountainous terrain is ideally suited to the adventurous trekker, while the ancient Silk Road routes, incorporating some of the country's most stunning landscapes, offer a glimpse into a more prosperous era.

The Tajiks come from an ancient stock – the inhabitants of the Pamir Mountains claim to be the only pure descendants of the Aryan tribes who invaded India over 4,000 years ago, and that the Saxon tribes of western Europe also originated there. Tajikistan’s inaccessibility has protected it from most invaders, although Alexander the Great founded a city on the site of modern-day Khojand, calling it Alexandria Eskate (Alexandria the Furthest).

Tajikistan was established as a sovereign state in 1991, following the dissolution of the Soviet Union. The ensuing power struggle led to civil war in late 1992, resulting in about 30,000 deaths. In 1994, Russian troops were brought in at the request of the beleaguered regime. Moscow also brokered negotiations between the government and the United Tajik Opposition (UTO). It is now some time since the opposing parties signed a 1997 peace agreement that brought the Tajik civil war to an end, and the political situation is currently stable.

Tajikistan was never well-equipped with a comprehensive infrastructure for tourists, and some sites were destroyed in the civil war, but there is still much to see.

Mongolia Travel Guide - Overview

Mongolia is far-flung and little visited yet has much to offer in terms of scenery, wildlife, and historic and cultural sites.

Outside the main cities, Mongolians continue to live the traditional life of malchin (herdsmen), and many are nomadic. With one of the world’s lowest population densities, Mongolia’s vast areas of wilderness, desert, lakes and mountains offer plenty of scope for adventurous outdoor enthusiasts. Although independent travel is now becoming more common, travel outside the capital is usually by tours.

Kyrgyzstan Travel Guide - Overview

The main attraction of Kyrgyzstan lies in the breathtaking landscape of mountains, glaciers and lakes; their isolation ensures that they have been almost forgotten by the crowds. The lakes and mountainous terrain provide excellent opportunities for trekking, skiing, climbing, sailing and swimming.

For more ambitious travellers, it is possible to follow the route of the old Silk Road to Kashgar in China, crossing the border at the Torugart Pass, near Lake Chatyr-Kul. Trekking tours and adventure holidays in this region are offered by a growing number of companies.

Kazakhstan Travel Guide - Overview

Kazakhstan is bordered by the Russian Federation, the Caspian Sea, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and China. For centuries, Kazakhstan's vast plains were home only to nomads and they are still virtually empty. Most settlements are concentrated in the southeast and the east of the Republic.

South Kazakhstan is a focus of Central Asian history and there are many famous monuments in the region. It is a scenically diverse region where the snow-capped peaks, lakes and glaciers of the Tian Shan range give way to steppe and desert. The desert is home to the Singing Barkhan – a sand dune 3.2km (2 miles) long, which, as it crumbles, produces a peculiar singing sound.

Almaty was until very recently the former capital of Kazakhstan and it enjoys a beautiful setting between mountains and plains. It is a city of modern architecture, cool fountains, parks and spectacular mountain views.

Georgia Travel Guide - Overview

Formerly the holiday haunt of the privileged elite of the Soviet Union, Georgia is blessed with stunning scenery, a balmy climate and a rich variety of flora and fauna. Enclosed high valleys, wide basins, health spas with famous mineral waters, caves and waterfalls combine in this land of varied landscapes and striking beauty.

With its stone houses built around vine-draped courtyards, and winding streets, the capital, Tbilisi, has a lively, Mediterranean atmosphere. Sukhumi, the capital of Abkhazia in the far northwest of Georgia, was until civil unrest began a relaxed, sunny port/resort, renowned for its beaches fringed with palms and eucalyptus trees, lively open-air cafes and cosmopolitan population. Peace has been restored since the city was involved in the Georgian-Abkhaz conflict in the early 1990s, but the city is less ethnically diverse than it once was.

Georgia became independent from the Soviet Union after an overwhelming majority voted in favour of independence in a referendum held in April 1991.

Apart from the dire state of the Georgian economy, the country's main problems have been the secessionist revolts in the outlying Georgian provinces of Abkhazia on the Black Sea coast (where Gamsakhurdia was located) and South Ossetia in the north.

In 1994, after two years of sporadic fighting, South Ossetia was brought back into the fold, but the Abkhazia problem has proved quite intractable. The only existing mediation effort, on the part of the UN, is at a standstill and Abkhazia is now effectively isolated from the rest of Georgia. The government also faces problems in the Pankisi Gorge region, which is reputed to be a haven for Islamic militants.

Azerbaijan Travel Guide - Overview

Azerbaijan is an Islamic former Soviet Republic on the Caspian Sea, an oil rich and strategically important nation that is the key geopolitical power in the Caucasus. Azerbaijan's location has always made it a gateway between east and west, and the country was an important stop on the Silk Route. Over the centuries, Azerbaijan has been incorporated into most major regional empires, including the Russian, Turkish and Persian and has been an independent republic since the breakup of the Soviet Union in 1991.

Taking in the stunning Caucasus Mountains to the north, the lush green valleys of the south and large swathes of arid semi-desert in between, Azerbaijan is a beautiful country with superb scenery, although it remains virtually unknown to the average traveller. Visitors usually base themselves in the capital Baku, from where it is easy to visit most of the country's biggest attractions.

Armenia Travel Guide - Overview

Armenia is a trove of history, littered with crumbling churches perched in spectacular settings. Landscapes transition rapidly from lush forests to shimmering lakes and stark deserts. But the best thing about Armenia is the Armenians themselves - ever welcoming and eager to show off their country to visitors.

Christianity arrived in 301AD and Armenia proudly calls itself the world's oldest Christian nation. Its kings once held lands as far away as Syria and the Black Sea coast. Lying on the Silk Road and wedged between Persian, Turkish and Russian empires, the country has seen its share of passing merchants, holy men and armies. Since the break up of the Soviet Union Armenia has seen a revival of nationalism and traditional culture.

The capital Yerevan is the nation's hub of cultural activity and progressive thought. The city sports impressive museums and a lively modern arts scene. Cafe culture has been perfected and it's de rigueur to spend inordinate amounts of time lingering over bottles of Armenian cognac. Armenian food is another treat - always served hot and fresh you can expect mounds of grilled meats and vegetables straight from the nearest garden.

Visitors will find mysterious stalactite caves, forgotten stone carvings and small villages that have barely entered the 21st century. Just when you think you've seen everything another old monastery pops up on the horizon.

Armenia Travel Guide - Contact Addresses

Embassy of the Republic of Armenia in the UK

25A Cheniston Gardens, London W8 6TG, UK
Tel: (020) 7938 5435.
Website: www.armenianembassy.org.uk
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 0900-1800 and 1000-1300 (consular section).

Embassy of the Republic of Armenia in the USA

2225 R Street, NW, Washington, DC 20008, USA
Tel: (202) 319 1976 or 2983 (consular section).
Website: www.armeniaemb.org

Armenia Information

3 Nalbandyan Poghots
Tel: (374) 542 303/06.
Website: www.armeniainfo.am

Armenia Travel Guide - Key Facts

Location

Caucasus, east of Turkey.

Time

GMT + 3 (GMT + 4 from last Sunday in March to Saturday before last Sunday in October).

Area

29,743 sq km (11,484 sq miles).

Population

3 million (2008 estimate).

Population Density

101 per sq km.

Capital

Yerevan. Population: 1.1 million (2007).

Geography

Armenia lies on the southern slopes of the Armenian Mountains in the Lesser Caucasus and is bordered by Georgia, Turkey, Azerbaijan and Iran. Its highest peak is Mount Aragats, 4,090m (13,415ft), and even its deepest valleys lie 450 to 700m (1,200 to 1,870ft) above sea level. Its biggest lake is Lake Sevan in the east.

Government

Republic. Gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991.

Head of State

President Serzh Sarksyan since 2008.

Head of Government

Prime Minister Tigran Sarksyan since 2008.

Recent History

President Robert Kocharyan, who served since 1998, stepped down in 2008. He was replaced by his ally Serzh Sarksyan, formerly prime minister, in April 2008. Former central bank chief Tigran Sarksyan took over as prime minister in April 2008.

In early 2004, thousands of opposition supporters marched against Kocharyan and allegations of corruption still persist. Sarksyan's election also met with protests and claims of vote rigging. However, observers said that the election was broadly democratic.

Language

Armenian. Russian is usually understood, but rarely used; Kurdish is sometimes used in broadcasting as 56,000 Kurds inhabit Armenia.

Religion

94% Armenian Apostolic Church, with Catholic and Protestant communities and a Russian Orthodox minority. Armenia is the oldest Christian nation in the world, its conversion dating from the year AD 301.

Electricity

220 volts AC, 50Hz. European plugs with two round pins are used.

Social Conventions

Almost all entertaining takes place in private homes, and guests may find themselves subjected to overwhelming hospitality and generosity, as well as being expected to eat enormously and participate in endless toasts. Visitors invited to an Armenian's home should arrive bearing some kind of small gift, such as flowers and alcohol (preferably imported) or chocolates. Handshaking is the normal form of greeting. Business cards are invariably exchanged at any kind of official meeting and not infrequently on first meeting people socially as well.

Conversation tends to be highly politicised, and guests may be well advised to avoid expressing strong opinions. Homosexuality is now decriminalised but is still an unacceptable lifestyle for many Armenians, and discretion should be exercised when in public. Women tend to be less retiring than in nearby Muslim countries, and can usually dress in normal western-style clothing (especially in the capital), although female visitors may wish to avoid wearing short skirts and shorts.

Photography: Refrain from photographing sites such as military bases equipment and installations. Also be aware of cultural sensitivities when photographing churches and other religious sites.

Armenia Travel Guide - Passport/Visa

Passport Required?
British	Yes
Australian	Yes
Canadian	Yes
USA	Yes
Other EU	Yes
Visa Required?
British	Yes
Australian	Yes
Canadian	Yes
USA	Yes
Other EU	Yes
Return Ticket Required?
British	No
Australian	No
Canadian	No
USA	No
Other EU	No

Passports

Passport valid for at least five months required by all nationals referred to in chart above.

Visas

Required by all except:
(a) nationals continuing their journey within 72 hours, provided remaining in the airport transit lounge and holding all documents required for the next destination and confirmed onward ticket.

Note: Nationals not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements (see Contact Addresses).

Visa Note

If leaving the airport, a transit visa may be issued on arrival for a stay of maximum three days, provided holding a visa (if required) for the final destination.

Types of Visa and Cost

E-Visa: US$60 (2 day online processing; website: www.armeniaforeignministry.com). Ordinary/Tourist: US$63, US$92 (three day express processing), US$101 (24-hour express processing). Single-entry (with official invitation): US$40. Multiple-entry (with official invitation): US$76. Transit: US$24 (single-entry).

Note: There is no charge for diplomatic and official visas, or for those issued to persons under 18 years of age.

Validity

Ordinary/Tourist: 21 days. Multiple-entry: three months. Transit: three days. Visas must be used within 90 days of date of issue.

Applications to:

Embassy (or consular section at embassy); see Contact Addresses.

Working Days Required

Seven. Urgent visas can be processed in one or three days for a higher fee (see above). E-Visa can normally be processed in two days.

Armenia Travel Guide - Money

Currency

Armenian Dram (AMD) = 100 luma. Dram notes are printed in denominations of AMD50,000, 20,000, 10,000, 5,000, 1,000 and 500. Coins are in denominations of AMD500, 200, 100, 50, 20 and 10.

Currency Exchange

Foreign currencies can be exchanged at the airports, banks and most hotels and shops during normal opening hours. US Dollars are the most widely recognised foreign currency. Visitors using the national currency are advised to carry plenty of small change as some shops and, particularly markets, may be unable to accept large denominations.

Credit/Debit Cards and ATMs

Major credit cards are accepted in most cities. There are ATMs in major cities.

Traveller's Cheques

These are accepted in a few shops and hotels. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travellers are advised to take traveller's cheques in US Dollars.

Currency Restrictions

Restrictions apply.

Banking Hours

Mon-Fri 0900-1500. Exchange offices are open until midnight and also operate at weekends and on public holidays.

Exchange Rate Indicators

Date	Jul 08
£1.00=	AMD601.14
$1.00=	AMD302.75
€1.00=	AMD478.05

Armenia Travel Guide - Duty Free

The following goods may be imported into Armenia by persons over 18 years of age without incurring customs duty:

• 400 cigarettes.
• 2l or one bottle of alcoholic beverage.
• 5kg of perfume (or perfume to the value of US$500).
• Other goods up to the amount of US$500, for personal use only.

It is advisable to declare valuables on arrival.

Prohibited Imports

Weapons and ammunition, narcotics, pornography, fruit and vegetables (without proper documents).

Prohibited Exports

Weapons, ammunition, narcotics, pornography, fruit and vegetables (without proper documents), works of art and antiques (unless permission has been granted by the Ministry of Culture). An export tax of approximately US$10 is payable on each item. Contact the Embassy for further information (see Contact Addresses).

Armenia Travel Guide - Public Holidays

Below are listed Public Holidays for the January 2008-December 2009 period.

2008
1-2 Jan New Year.
6 Jan Armenian Orthodox Christmas.
8 Mar Women's Day.
21 Mar Good Friday.
7 Apr Motherhood and Beauty Day.
24 Apr Genocide Memorial Day.
9 May Victory and Peace Day.
28 May First Republic Day.
5 Jul Constitution Day.
21 Sep Independence Day.
7 Dec Earthquake Memorial Day.
31 Dec New Year's Eve.

2009
1-2 Jan New Year.
6 Jan Armenian Orthodox Christmas.
8 Mar Women's Day.
7 Apr Motherhood and Beauty Day.
10 Apr Good Friday.
24 Apr Genocide Memorial Day.
9 May Victory and Peace Day.
28 May First Republic Day.
5 Jul Constitution Day.
21 Sep Independence Day.
7 Dec Earthquake Memorial Day.
31 Dec New Year's Eve.

Armenia Travel Guide - Health

Vaccinations

	Special Precautions
Diphtheria	Yes
Hepatitis A	Yes
Malaria	Sometimes
Rabies	Sometimes
Tetanus	Yes
Typhoid	Sometimes
Yellow Fever	No
Inoculation regulations can change at short notice. Please take medical advice in the case of doubt. Where 'Sometimes' appears in the table above, precautions may be required, depending on the season and region visited.

Food and Drink

All water should be regarded as being a potential health risk. Water used for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should have first been boiled or otherwise sterilised. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish. Vegetables should be cooked and fruit peeled. Milk is pasteurised and dairy products should be safe for consumption, however, the incidence of communicable diseases among livestock is increasing because of a breakdown in vaccination programmes.

Other Risks

Hepatitis B and E, tick-borne encephalitis and tuberculosis may all occur. Visitors are advised to take precautions which may include vaccination. There may be a risk of rabies although there has been no reported incidence in animals or humans since 1997. If you are bitten, seek medical advice without delay.

Health Care

A reciprocal agreement for urgent medical treatment exists with the UK, although proof of UK residence is required. Other nationals (and indeed UK travellers) are advised to take out comprehensive travel insurance. Power shortages and disrupted medical supplies have undermined normal health services to such a degree that travellers would be well advised to consider a health insurance policy guaranteeing emergency evacuation in case of serious accident or illness, as medical insurance is not often valid within the country.

Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services and credit or debit cards will not be accepted; most will want treatment paid for in local currency. Travellers are also advised to take a supply of those medicines that they are likely to require (but check first that they may be legally imported) as there is a severe shortage of even the most basic medical supplies, such as disposable needles, anaesthetics and antibiotics.

Armenia Travel Guide - Accommodation

Hotels

Many of the old Soviet-era hotels have been privatised and upgraded, including the excellent Armenia Marriott Hotel on Republic Square in Yerevan. The Tufenkian Group has established several heritage hotels across the country, notably the Avan Dzoraget Hotel in the Debed Canyon.

Bed and Breakfast

Armenia has the best network of B&Bs in the Caucuses. Most offer a room inside the family house with shared facilities. Staying in these is a great way to get to know local families. The main tourist office in Yerevan keeps an updated list of B&Bs across the country.

Accommodation Information

Information on accommodation can be obtained from Armenia Information (website: www.armeniainfo.am).

Armenia Travel Guide - Going Out

Food and Drink

Yerevan has a booming restaurant scene, with cuisine available from every corner of the globe. Along Paronyan Poghots (Barbeque Street) you'll find a number of places that serve the famed Armenian dish, khoravats (grilled meats). Crawling between cafes is a popular local activity; many are located in parks and along sidewalks.

Much Armenian cooking is based on lamb, either grilled and served as shashlik with flat bread, or prepared as soup (the most popular being bozbash, a dish which exists in infinite variations) or stew, often in combination with fruit or nuts. A meal usually starts with a large spread of hors d'oeuvres, which may include peppers and vine leaves stuffed with rice and meat, pickled and fresh vegetables and various kinds of cured meat (basturma).

National specialities:
• Shampours (skewers packed with all kinds of marinated meat and vegetables).
• Ghapama (pumpkin stew with rice, raisins, apples and cinnamon).
• Khash is a national institution rather than just a dish, with poems and songs throughout the centuries being composed in homage to it. It's a broth made from hamhocks and herbs, served with lots of garlic and bread.

National drinks:
• Brandies are exceptional (Dvin).
• Kotayk and Kihikia are Armenian beers.
• Areni red wine is particularly lauded. Many Armenian wines are world-renowned semi-sweet or dessert wines.

Legal drinking age: There is no minimum.

Tipping: Expected by waiters and doormen in restaurants - sometimes in advance to ensure service.

Nightlife

Yerevan has no shortage of nightclubs and restaurants that host local bands playing everything from soft jazz to hard rock. Some of the biggest clubs play techno and trance until dawn, sometimes with DJs from Europe or Russia. The capital also has a forlorn strip of casinos on the road to the airport. Opera, theatre and ballet performances are of a high standard, and tickets are cheap. Folk music, featuring the ubiquitous duduk (a double reed wood instrument) is often organised at traditional Armenian restaurants and other tourist venues. There are often concerts at the Philharmonic, Chamber Music Hall and Opera & Ballet House in Yerevan.

Shopping

Yerevan has several shops selling modern fashions produced by local designers. Souvenir and craft shops are available in shopping plazas and hotels. The Vernisaj flea market in Yerevan attracts sellers of all kinds of goods and is popular with tourists. Shopping is far more limited elsewhere in the country, although Dilijan has a tourist market where you can buy Armenian crafts and artwork.

Shopping hours: Mon-Fri 0900-1700. Shops stay open longer in the summer.

Armenia Travel Guide - Business

GDP: US$17.2 billion (2007).
Main exports: Processed and unprocessed diamonds, machinery, metal products and food.
Main imports: Natural gas, petroleum, tobacco products, foods and diamonds.
Main trade partners: Russia, Belgium, Netherlands, Iran and Israel.

Economy

The Armenian economy is hobbled by the closed borders with Turkey and Azerbaijan, factors that cause high import prices. Nevertheless, GDP growth is a robust 13% and Armenia has been labelled a ‘Caucasian Tiger' for its economic advances.

Mineral deposits including copper, zinc, gold, marble, bauxite and molybdenum have brought some foreign revenue and investment, although this sector is relatively undeveloped. The industrial sector comprises textile and chemical industries, aluminium production and some mechanical engineering. Remittances, which make up 10% of the economy, have triggered some of the growth. In rural areas, many people rely on subsistence agriculture.

The privatisation programme, launched in the mid 1990s, has been extended to include major parts of the national infrastructure, such as the electricity grid. The volume of foreign investment is growing, despite concerns about widespread corruption and poor financial controls. Inflation stands at 4.4% while unemployment is 7.7%.

Business Etiquette

Business is generally conducted formally, and visitors should dress smartly. Appointments are necessary.

Office hours: Mon-Fri 0900-1800.

Business Contacts

Ministry of Trade and Economic Development
5 M Mkrtchian, 375010, Yerevan, Armenia
Tel: (10) 566 185.
Website: www.minted.am

Ministry of Foreign Affairs
2 Republic Square, Yerevan 0010, Armenia
Tel: (10) 544 041.
Website: www.armeniaforeignministry.com

Chamber of Commerce and Industry
11 Khanjyan Street, Yerevan 375010, Armenia
Tel: (10) 560 184 or 196.
Website: www.armcci.am

Armenian Development Agency
17 Charents Street, Yerevan 0025, Armenia
Tel: (10) 570 170.
Website: www.ada.am

Armenia Travel Guide - Top Things To Do

• Hike through Armenia's spectacular countryside, ambling over country roads through timeless villages or up steep mountain passes to catch a gorgeous sunrise.

• Spot rare species of birds, including eagles, falcons and swans. Armenia is home to 346 of Europe's 550 bird species.

• Spelunk into some dazzling limestone caverns in Vayots Dzor. Near Goris you can explore cave homes carved into the hillsides.

• Horse ride on Mount Aragats in the spring, when you can traverse Armenia's tallest mountain.

• Cast a line into lake Sevan, where you can reel into Armenia's famous species of trout, the Salmon trout (Ishkhan), plus many more that swim in Armenia's other lakes and rivers.

• Sample some of Armenia's excellent brandies, which Winston Churchill always insisted on after first tasting it at the Yalta conference.

See Contact Addresses for further tourist information.

Armenia Travel Guide - Top Things To See

• Experience holy Echmiadzin, the capital of Armenia from AD 180-340, and the location of the Cathedral of St Gregory the Illuminator.The cathedral's treasury contains a spearhead believed to have been used to pierce the side of the crucified Christ.

• Tour Yerevan's impressive array of cultural sites, including the National Gallery (founded in 1919) and the Yerevan library of ancient manuscripts (Materadaran), which houses over 13,000 texts.

• Don't miss the State Museum of Armenian History in Yerevan, which houses the country's best collection of historical artefacts.

• Make a pilgrimage to one of Armenia's most dramatic sights, the Geghard Monastery. A monastery has occupied this site since the fourth century AD, and the existing churches, all magnificently carved, date from the 13th century.

• Take a detour from Geghard Monastery to visit Garni Temple. Repeated earthquakes have destroyed most of the original structure, but the temple's vertiginous position, dominating the valley from a plateau 300m (984ft) above the Azat River, secures its beauty.

• Photograph the beautiful Lake Sevan, much vaunted for its pure waters, stunning setting and delicious salmon trout. The lake is 70km (43 miles) east of Yerevan and the largest in the Caucasus.

• Relax in Dilijan, a town set amid lovely pine forests with walking trails that ascend to alpine lakes. The town has a number of renovated Soviet-era sanatoriums and a community of retired artists.

• Travel to the steep-sided Debed Canyon where you can visit the UNESCO-protected monasteries of Haghpat and Sanahin. It is believed that the great Armenian troubadour-poet, Sayat-Nova, was born in Sanahin, and became a monk at Haghpat.

• Journey to Goris, a town that has changed little since it was first planned by a 19th century German architect. The surrounding area is worth exploring for its cave dwellings. Nearby is the spectacular Tatev Monastery.

See Contact Addresses for further tourist information.

Armenia Travel Guide - Communications

Telephone

Country code: 374. IDD calls can be expensive but in Yerevan some private phone offices offer cheaper Internet calls.

Mobile Telephone

Roaming agreements exist with some international mobile phone companies. ArmenTel and VivaCell are the local carriers. Both are similar and offer phone coverage to most parts of the country.

Internet

Available in large cities and resorts. There are many Internet cafes in Yerevan. Some are open 24 hours.

Post

International postal services are available to most countries but may be slow and unreliable, although there have been significant improvements in recent years. The main post office is located at Republic Square, Yerevan.

Post office hours: Mon-Fri 0900-1700.

Media

Armenian government oversees national TV and radio. Libel and defamation are punishable by prison terms and journalists have been sentenced under these laws in the past. All print and broadcast media must register with the Justice Ministry. Self-censorship is common.

Press

• The main newspapers published in Armenian are Aravot, Azg and Yerkir (Russian editions have been discontinued since the Russian minority in the republic dropped).
• Golos Armenii (The Voice of Armenia) and Respublika Armenia are the main Russian-language papers.
• Noyan Tapan is an English-language weekly circulated primarily among the foreign missions and small foreign business community.

TV

• Public TV of Armenia is a national, state-run station.
• Armenia TV and Prometheus TV are national, commercial stations.

Radio

• Private radio stations include Hai FM.
• There are national and state-run stations, including Public Radio of Armenia.

Armenia Travel Guide - Getting There

Getting There by Air

Armenian Airlines (website: www.armenianairlines.com) is the national airline. For political reasons, there are no direct international transport links between Armenia and Azerbaijan; Georgia is sometimes used as a stopover point.

Approximate Flight Times

From Paris to Yerevan is four hours.

Main Airports

Zvartnots International Airport (EVN) (website: www.zvartnots.am) is 10km (6 miles) from Yerevan. Free Wi-Fi is available in the departure terminal. To/from the airport: Buses and taxis are available to the city centre. Buses run regularly (journey time - 30 minutes). Facilities: ATMs, duty free, bureaux de change, car hire, information centre and cafes.

Departure Tax

US$30 per person (usually payable in local currency). Although this is normally paid at the airport, visitors staying in the large hotels may sometimes pay at their hotel, and present the receipt at the airport check-in desk. Transit passengers and children under 12 years of age are exempt.

Getting There by Rail

Armenia's rail links to Azerbaijan and Turkey have been closed indefinitely, but an international service still runs to Georgia (every other day) and to Iran. Passengers travelling to Georgia should be aware of the possibility of theft or robbery. The main station is Sasuntsi Davit on Tigran Mets Avenue.

Getting There by Road

A new highway connects Armenia and Iran via the town of Kapan. There are two highways linking Armenia to Georgia, with the popular Yerevan-Tbilisi road seeing frequent traffic. The Azerbaijan and Turkey borders are both currently closed. It is possible to travel by road to the enclave of Nagorno Karabakh, however, it is essential to obtain a visa from the permanent representative of Nagorno Karabakh in Yerevan. Turkey and Azerbaijan have imposed a blockade against Armenia and closed borders with it.

Bus: Kilikia Central Bus Station is where most buses depart. Two buses per week travel to Istanbul via Georgia and there is a daily (except Fridays) bus service to Tabriz.

Armenia Travel Guide - Getting Around

Getting Around by Air

There are no domestic flights in Armenia.

Getting Around by Rail

The main railway station is the Sasuntsi Davit Station on Tigran Mets Avenue. Trains to places such as Sevan, Gyumri and Vanadzor are slow, overcrowded and poorly maintained. Belongings should be secured.

Getting Around by Road

Traffic drives on the right. Road surfaces can be very poor, even in the case of major highways, and care should be taken to avoid children and animals on the road. Local drivers have a tendency to flout traffic regulations and ignore signals. Visitors should take care when driving or crossing the road.

Bus: There are city minivans available (marshrutni or marshrutka) which operate on 100 different routes and may be flagged down. From Yerevan its three hours to Dilijan, two hours to Vanadzor, four hour to Goris and six hours to Kapan.

Coach: Coaches run between the major centres of population.

Car hire: There are plenty of car hire companies operating, including international firms.

Regulations: Seat belts are required by law (although no one seems to use them).

Documentation: An international driver's license is required and the minimum age of driving is 18.

Getting Around Towns and Cities

There is a small underground system in Yerevan (0630-2300). Buses and trolleybuses run in the city. Taxis are available in the city centre or can be ordered by telephone. Private cars can be flagged down as well as official taxis. Taxi fares should always be negotiated before starting a journey, and visitors should be aware that rates proposed initially are likely to be unreasonably high, in the expectation that foreigners will have unlimited cash and little idea of how much they ought to be paying. It is therefore advisable to make enquiries about ‘going rates' per kilometre of travel before entering into negotiations with taxi drivers. Chauffeur-driven cars are available but are expensive. It is advisable to obtain them through official channels, such as hotels or travel agencies in Yerevan.

Armenia Travel Guide - Climate

Continental, mountain climate (over 90% of the territory is over 900m/2,286ft above sea level). During the summer, days can be hot and dry with temperatures falling sharply at night. Winters are extremely cold with heavy snow. May to June and September to October are good times to visit the country, as the weather is warm but mild.

Armenia Travel Guide - Map

Armenia Travel Guide - Travel Advice

Because of an unresolved dispute over Nagorno Karabakh, all but essential travel near the border with Azerbaijan is advised against. Particular care should be taken in the Tavush and Gegharkunic regions, as there is sporadic gunfire. Vehicles travelling on the road from Ljevan to Noyemberyan are particularly vulnerable. Political demonstrations sometimes turn violent. Internal travel, especially by air, may be disrupted by fuel shortages and other problems.

In addition, you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate international terrorist attacks, which could be against civilian targets, including places frequented by foreigners.

This advice is based on information provided by the Foreign & Commonwealth Office in the UK. It is correct at time of publishing. As the situation can change rapidly, visitors are advised to contact the following organisations for the latest travel advice:

British Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Tel: 0845 850 2829.
Website: www.fco.gov.uk

US Department of State
Website: http://travel.state.gov/travel