Georgia and Armenia: visa, security and other issues
GEORGIAN AND ARMENIAN VISA
Yes, Georgia and Armenia! Both are countries VERY open to tourism, without requiring visas for many nationalities. Most European and Latin American citizens will only need their passport, which will be stamped at the land border or upon landing at the airport. But not only that, my friends... Pay attention: Georgia gives many countries up to a year of stay (yes, a year!) and Armenia six months. How many countries provide these facilities? Being able to go to a country without having to process anything at a bureaucratic level and at no cost.
As I say, not all nations are equally lucky, so here are the official Georgian and Armenian websites so that you can be well informed and, if you need to apply for the visa online, do so:
Georgia: https://www.evisa.gov.ge/GeoVisa/
Armenia: https://www.mfa.am/en/visa/
SECURITY
Both are VERY SAFE. Both Georgians and Armenians are generally friendly towards foreigners. This does not mean that something cannot happen to you, like anywhere, so you should travel with common sense and listening to your instinct to reduce the probabilities. I only had one “small” setback, precisely on my first day in Georgia, having just arrived from Turkey: my fanny pack was stolen while I was talking (and trying the chacha) with a group of retirees.
My dog Cocaí with a group of Georgian retirees just before the misfortune
On the other hand, the road infrastructure is good, even in mountain areas. I had a car accident in Armenia... but it was due to the driver's negligence. I would also say that the health and hygiene conditions are decent. They are clean countries and there is no need to worry about getting sick from food or water.
OTHER ISSUES
Whenever we travel we must respect the chosen country and culture. Both Georgians and Armenians seemed tolerant and understanding to foreigners (at least to me), but we must adapt to their customs, especially when it comes to religion. For example, I saw that in some monasteries women had to cover their heads with a scarf and men had to wear long sleeves. It is not in all of them, because in other monasteries they even let me enter with my dog. But if they say something to you, be prepared to change your clothes.
Visiting Tatev Monastery
It is also good manners to accept any offering they may offer you, such as their favorite drinks: chacha, ararat, wine and vodka. If you have something from your lands, take it out and share, they will surely love it.
_edited.png)
Comments