There are certain dreams that stay quietly within us—waiting, maturing—until life finally gives them a chance. That’s what Armenia was for me.
Back in 2015, I stumbled upon a Filipino travel blogger named Kach who visited Armenia. Her posts were like windows into a world I never knew I needed to see. Snow-capped peaks, ancient monasteries perched on cliffs, and a culture so rich and deeply rooted—it all captivated me. That’s when my dream to visit Armenia started.
But at the time, I had no resources. I was in the Philippines with no means to travel.
Then came 2017. I was given a life-changing opportunity to work in Kuwait. A year later, during my very first vacation leave, I finally made that dream a reality. One whole week in Armenia—it still feels surreal to write that.
🛬 Touchdown in Yerevan
I arrived in Armenia during late winter of 2018. The air was crisp, and the city was wrapped in a quiet charm. I had booked a small hostel in Yerevan, the capital. As I looked out over the city skyline from my window, it started to sink in: I’m really here.
❄️ First Taste of Snow
The next morning, I met Arthur, a local tour guide and driver, in the city square. He took me on an unforgettable journey—our first stop was Geghard Monastery. It was here, surrounded by ancient stone and deep spirituality, that I experienced snow for the first time in my life.
Growing up in the Philippines, snow was just something I saw on TV. Feeling it land softly on my skin was something I’ll never forget. The cold, the calm, the quiet—it was like stepping into a dream.
We continued to Garni Temple, a stunning Greco-Roman structure, then made our way to Tsaghkadzor where I got to ride a snowmobile—my adrenaline was off the charts! We had lunch in Dilijan, known as the “Switzerland of Armenia,” and ended the day at the beautiful Lake Sevan.
đź•Ť Exploring the Soul of Yerevan
In the next few days, I took my time exploring Yerevan City. I visited age-old churches, paid my respects at the Armenian Genocide Memorial, and spent hours at Republic Square just people-watching and soaking in the culture.
I also met two Armenian friends I had connected with online—Sargis and Vazgen. They treated me to a delicious meal at Yerevan Tavern, where I tasted traditional Armenian dishes and felt the warmth of local hospitality.
🚡 A Ropeway to the Skies
One of the most unforgettable days was when we took a long drive to visit Noravank Monastery and Tatev Monastery, which I reached through the Wings of Tatev—the longest reversible aerial tramway in the world. Floating high above gorges and rivers, I felt a sense of peace I hadn’t felt in a long time.
We also visited the Armenian Stonehenge (Karahunj)—a place shrouded in mystery and ancient energy.
🛕 Spiritual Pilgrimage
On Day 5, I traveled to Khor Virap Monastery, where Mount Ararat looms majestically in the background. Then to Etchmiadzin, the religious center of Armenia. These places aren’t just visually stunning—they’re spiritually moving.
That evening, I strolled through North Avenue and the city one last time, alone, quietly reflecting on everything I had experienced.
đź‘‹ A Bittersweet Goodbye
On my last day, I met some fellow Filipino travelers and explored the city a bit more. I bought local art, souvenirs, and paintings to take home with me—pieces of Armenia I could hold onto.
The next morning, I flew back to Kuwait, my heart both full and heavy.
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đź’¬ Why Armenia Stays With Me
If there’s one country I would go back to without question—it’s Armenia.
The scenery is otherworldly. The people are kind and welcoming. The history is deep and haunting. And for travelers like me, it’s surprisingly affordable.
What started as a dream born from a blog post turned into a trip that changed me. I’ll forever be grateful for the moments I had in Armenia—the snow, the silence, the stories, and the friendships.
Until we meet again, Armenia.
I miss you.
thenightingaleexplorer 