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ROAD TRAVEL REPORT:

ARMENIA

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO… „ Driving is not recommended, due to poor road conditions and the high risk driving culture. „ The road network is inadequate to handle the rapidly growing vehicle fleet. „ Used vehicles imported from other countries often fail to meet safety standards. „ Annual road crashes have increased about 12%, partly due to the raised speed limit and increased vehicle ownership. „ Road fatalities increased 40% and road crash injuries „ In 2008, had twice the death rate from road 66% in a five year period. crashes than the death rate from road crashes of the „ There are 10.5 road fatalities per 10,000 vehicles in combined EU countries. Armenia, compared to 1.6 in the U.S. and 0.9 in the UK.

ROAD REALITIES DRIVER BEHAVIORS „ Taxi drivers parked at street corners, awaiting „ Many drivers take risks, show little courtesy to other passengers contributes to traffic congestion. drivers, disregard traffic regulations and do not stop for „ Many cars are in poor condition. Private organizations red lights. Use caution when driving or crossing a road. in Armenia are conducting vehicle inspections. „ “Road rage” is a serious problem. In some cases, “road rage” has escalated to physical violence against drivers GENERAL ROAD CONDITIONS and/or pedestrians. Yield to aggressive drivers. „ Armenia is a landlocked country in the southern „ Driving under the influence of alcohol is more Mountains, between the Black and Caspian common on weekends, especially on the main road Seas. The covers 80% of the from to the and Sevan resort country. Most of the population is concentrated in areas. Drunk driving is a factor in about 6% of road western and northwestern Armenia, the least crash fatalities. mountainous regions. The passes „ Lack of knowledge of road regulations and good through northern Armenia and along the border with driving habits are factors in many road crashes. and , making travel between northern and southern Armenia difficult. „ Few drivers receive driver training. Licenses can be bought. „ The network of trunk roads is well developed. Condition and maintenance of trunk roads is fair to „ Poorly parked vehicles interfere with traffic flow. good. Other primary roads are often in poor condition, Vehicles parked on sidewalks force pedestrians to walk especially outside urban areas. on roads. „ Main roads used by international traffic are in fair condition. Bypasses have been built around many larger

ROAD TRAVEL REPORT: ARMENIA 1 © ASIRT 2010

and rest stops have been completed or are being o The South: Vayots Dzor and built along many international routes. o Nagorno Republic (Claimed by Armenia, „ Three Asian Highways pass through Armenia: AH-81, but the world community regards the region as part of AH-82 and AH-83. All sections meet or exceed the Azerbaijan). minimum standard set for AH routes. The routes are in „ is Armenia’s largest and most densely poor to fair condition. populated region. Larger cities in the province include „ Secondary roads are being improved, but many are in , , , Megri, Kadzharan, Agarak and poor condition and poorly maintained. Many roads . Most of the region consists of high have potholes large enough to seriously damage to cars. mountains and deep canyons and gorges. Some canyons „ Road markings are often lacking. Traffic lights may not and gorges are impassable. Flat, plains areas are rare. work. State Preserve is near Kapan. The preserve begins in the Mtnadzor Canyon on the Tsav River and „ Road signs are lacking on many roads. Installation of includes forests along the Tsav and Shikahogh rivers. new signs and replacement of old signs is ongoing. International road signs are often used. See NAGORNO-KARABAKH REPUBLIC, AutoEurope’s website GENERAL ROAD CONDITIONS (www.autoeurope.com/roadsigns/index.cfm) for „ The Nagorno-Karabakh Republic is primarily a rural graphics of these signs. area. Most cities are small. Public transport services are „ Roads carry 98% of passenger traffic and 66% of freight limited. traffic. Traffic can be chaotic. Be alert for children and „ The Republic has 4,498 km of roads. Most interior animals on the roads, even on major highways. roads are in very poor condition. Roads between „ Trucks account for a small percentage of traffic, except villages are generally unpaved. on main roads linking Yerevan to Iran and . „ Off-road travel is not recommended, due to the „ Armenia borders Georgia, Iran, , Nagorno- presence of landmines placed during the 1991-94 war. Karabakh Republic, Azerbaijan and the Nakhichevan De-mining is incomplete. Autonomous Republic of Azerbaijan. Only borders with „ Much of the Republic is mountainous. Many roads are Nagorno-Karabakh Republic, Iran and Georgia are steep and winding. Fog, which occurs frequently at open. higher elevations, reduces visibility. „ Open border crossings: „ Routes that are in the best condition include o Georgia: / Jdanovi, / Guguti, -Aghdam-Mardakert- Road and / Sadakhlo the Stepanakert-Aghdam--Hadrut Road. o Iran: Agarak / URBAN TRAVEL „ Closed border crossings: „ The condition and maintenance of roads is fair to good. o Turkey: / Dogukapi , / Igdir „ Public transportation is inadequate or lacking in many o Azerbaijan: / Kazakh , / Qelbajar, Goris cities. Residents may walk several miles to board a bus / , Yeraskh / Sadarak , Ordubad / , or minibus. Meghri / Minjevan „ Street lights and signs are often lacking. Traffic lights „ Some border crossings are on roads that are in poor frequently are non-functional. condition. „ Be alert for pedestrians, crossing unlit streets in the „ Closed borders are routinely patrolled by armed troops, middle of the block may be dressed in black. who stop anyone attempting to cross them. „ Sidewalks may be in poor condition. Carry a flash light „ Provinces grouped by region: by night. o The North: Lori and „ Sidewalks often are blocked by parked cars or o The Northwest: Shirak, Aragatsotn, construction projects, forcing pedestrians to walk on o The Center: , and Ararat the street.

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„ Intersections, bus stops, etc. are seldom handicap „ Air pollution is growing problem, especially in accessible. industrial centers such as Yerevan, Alaverdi, , „ The spelling of and road names varies greatly. and Ararat.

ARMAVIR

CONDITIONS USEFUL INFORMATION The city is 44 km west of Yerevan on the M-4 and is the Taxis are available. capital of Armavir Marz. The city is also known as Minibuses provide transport to and from Yerevan. Service is Hoktemberyan. frequent. The terrain is fairly level. Walking is a good option. Some minibuses provide day tours of the city.

BAGRATASHEN

CONDITIONS USEFUL INFORMATION Located in , near Armenia’s busiest border Buses, minivans and taxis provide transport between the city crossing with Georgia, the city is a regional rail and road and , Georgia. transport hub. Border crossing facilities meet European Buses and minivans provide regular service to Yerevan. standards. Tourist facilities are well developed.

DILIJAN

CONDITIONS USEFUL INFORMATION The city is a short distance north of Sevan Lake. Main roads Transport is provided by buses, minibuses, vans and taxis. serving the city: and . Tour buses provide transport to popular destinations. Taxis The city is easily toured by walking. can be hired for a day or more. Ask tourist office for Old Town assistance with setting the fare. Historic Sharambeyan Street represents “Old Town Dilijan.” Few taxi drivers speak English. Politely refuse to allow the Craftsmen’s workshops, museums, restaurants and driver to change agreed price. Ask police for assistance if commercial shops line the narrow, stone-paved street. necessary. Bicycles can be rented from the tourist office.

GYUMRI

CONDITIONS USEFUL INFORMATION Capital of in northwest Armenia. Armenia’s Unless driving a rental vehicle or personal vehicle, taxi may second largest city. be the best way to tour the city. The city is the third most important trade center in the Local minivans provide transport, but route numbers are Trans-Caucasus region after Tiflis (Georgia) and confusing. Minivans may not travel to all sites of interest (Azerbaijan). to tourists. An important rail hub. Rail line links the city with Tiflis, Shirak International Airport, 5 km from city center. Yerevan, Jolfa (Iran) and Tabriz (Iran). Armenia’s second largest airport. The airport is in a The Old City is easily walked, newer parts of the city are mountainous location. The airport serves as alternative spread out. airport when Zvartnots International Airport is closed due to adverse weather conditions.

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JERMUK

CONDITIONS USEFUL INFORMATION The city is in , 175 km from Yerevan. It The city is situated at 2080 meters above sea level. The is only accessible by road. River flows through it. The Highway passes near the city. The local road linking During the peak tourist season, several buses and minibuses the city and the M2is in fair condition. A few sections may provide transport between the city and larger cities in the be rough. country. During the off-peak season, transport services are Minor roads near the city are being improved. Many are more limited. narrow, winding and in poor condition. They may close, Transport from Yerevan: Buses and minibuses to due to heavy snows. leave from Kilikia bus station. Shared taxis and regular Traffic signals do not work. Inadequate street lighting is taxis also provide transport. Minibuses fill quickly; arrive being upgraded. early. Some sidewalks are in poor condition. Sidewalks on the The resort area above the city can easily be walked. The area right river bank have been repaired. Those on the left surrounding the city consists of meadows, rolling bank are being repaired. mountains and deep volcanic canyons. Walking, hiking A strong wind from the desert often affects the city and can and cycling are good options, except in winter. make cycling difficult.

KAPAN

CONDITIONS USEFUL INFORMATION The main road linking Yerevan and the Iranian border Capital of Syunik Province in southern Armenia. Located serves the city. Truck traffic is heavy. along the Vokhchi River and lower slopes of Mount and neighboring hills.

STEPANAKERT

CONDITIONS USEFUL INFORMATION Stepanakert is the capital of the Nagorno-Karabakh Minibuses (shared taxis/) and buses provide Republic. inter-city travel. Minibuses provide transport in the city.

VANADZOR

CONDITIONS USEFUL INFORMATION Aremenia’s third largest city and capital of . The city is located along the River and is The -Vanadzor highway lies about 2 km west of the surrounded by high mountains. city. Landslide risk has increased, due to deforestation of mountains surrounding the city. After heavy rains, roads in and near the city can be covered with mud. Use caution when driving, walking or cycling after rain storms.

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YEREVAN

CONDITIONS USEFUL INFORMATION The terrain is hilly. Some streets are steep. YerevanTrans oversees the operation of public buses, trolleys, The Hrazdan Ravine passes from north to south through the Metro and privately-operated transport services. city and has influenced the city’s road network. Radial Buses, trolleybuses, minibuses and Metro provide transport routes link the suburbs with city center. Circular roads in the city. (beltways) link suburbs to neighboring suburbs. Inter-city buses provide transport to larger cities in Armenia Heavier road traffic has increased congestion. Road crash and neighboring countries. Buses leave daily for Tabriz occur more often. About 25% of road fatalities occur in and , Iran. There is regular service to Tblisi, Yerevan, of which about 77% are pedestrians. Georgia. The average traffic level on most roads is about 115% of Official bus stations are: capacity. Azatutiun Avenue, the least congested main road, o Yerevan Central Bus Station, on Admiral Isahakov carries about 92% of capacity. Baghramyan, the most Avenue. Serves buses to , Aleppo, Georgia and congested road, carries about 165% of capacity. main cities in Armenia. Many streets are under construction. o Kanakeri Bus Station, in the city’s northern suburbs on Many traffic lights are outdated and not able to regulate high the main highway to Tbilisi, Georgia. Northeastern traffic levels, complex turning patterns or separate light regions and cycles for pedestrians. Poor placement of some traffic o Buses to and from Iran are available in front of Hotel lights has been a factor in road crashes. Erebuni, next to Republic Square. Intersection design is inadequate for increased traffic levels. Most buses to Georgia, Turkey and Iran depart from Kilikia Pedestrians have difficulty crossing intersections safely. Central Bus Station. Buses go to Istanbul via Georgia. Pedestrian crossings are lacking on some busy streets. Wider Buses provide transport to Tabriz, Iran, except on Fridays. pedestrian crossings with islands are needed on main Few bus stations offer transport to the entire country. corridors. Determine which stations provide service to the region Pedestrians must be alert for potholes. you want to visit. Parking is scarce in city center. Minibuses (marshrutni) provide over half of public Unofficial bus stations: Buses often stop at street corners and transport trips. Fares are almost twice as high as public wait for passengers. Be alert for pedestrians near waiting transport fares. Minibuses can be hailed. buses. Minibuses follow set routes. The routes are difficult to The city’s hilly streets can make cycling difficult. understand. They are numbered, but there is no master list accounts for only about 7.5% of public of routes and some routes overlap. Route schedules are transport trips daily. Metro has one line and currently only available in Armenian. serves 10 stations. Minibuses provide transportation to many cities. Some Train service to and from Georgia operates out of Sasuntsi minibuses provide transport to Tblisi and cities in Davit Metro Station on Tigran Mets Avenue. Schedules Nagorno Karabaka. and tickets are available at the station. Call 1-84 for train The frequency and quality of services minibuses provide on information. Zvartnots International Airport, 12 km west main corridors has been declining, primarily due to of city center. congestion and overcrowding caused by the minibuses Airport, 10 km (6 miles) southwest of the city. Buses, themselves. To reduce congestion, minibuses are being minibuses and taxis provide transport between the airport replaced with larger buses. and the city. Buses depart every half hour. Taxis are readily available in city center or can be called. Ask is just south of the city and is primarily hotel staff about current fares for common destinations. used for military or private flights. The initial fare drivers state is often high. Bargain for a reasonable rate. Agree on fare before leaving. Do not allow the driver to change the fare mid-trip.

ROAD TRAVEL REPORT: ARMENIA 5 © ASIRT 2010

YEREVAN (CONTINUED)

CONDITIONS USEFUL INFORMATION Seek police assistance if the driver demands a higher fare. Owners of private cars may offer taxi services. Using unofficial taxis is not recommended. Chauffeur-driven cars are available. Rates are moderate. Obtain chauffeur services through hotels or travel agencies in Yerevan.

RURAL TRAVEL SEASONAL TRAVEL „ Many roads are in poor condition. Some roads are „ Many regions have hot summers and cold winters. impassable. Potholes and crumbling pavement are common on „ Drainage is inadequate on most roads. Potholes are roads subject to extreme temperature changes. common and can be 3 to 4 feet wide. „ The highest mountain regions receive the heaviest „ Due to the mountainous terrain and poor road rainfall. Drastic weather changes are common at higher conditions, allow for long travel times when driving altitudes. across country. „ Weather is generally coldest from December to March „ 4WD vehicles and experience driving them are with frequent, heavy snowfalls. required when traveling on remote off-road tracks. „ The road network includes many high mountain passes, „ Mountainous roads are often steep and winding. which often close in winter, due to heavy snow and high Weather conditions can change rapidly at high winds. elevations. Sudden rain or hail storms are common. „ Only about 16% of the rural roads are open most of the „ There are about 3,689 km of rural feeder roads that winter. connect rural communities with main roads. About „ Snow storms, spring floods, mudslides and wind and 2,250 km (61%) of these roads are in poor condition, hail storms are common in the Lori Region. 1033 km (28%) are in fair condition and 406km (11%) „ Rainfall is generally low. Most rain comes in March and are in good condition. April. „ Over 780 high-priority secondary and local roads and „ Summers (June to mid-September) are hot and dry. bridges have been upgraded or are scheduled to be Sudden rain or hail storms are common at higher upgraded by 2015. elevations in summer. „ Road crashes generally increase on national holidays. NIGHT TRAVEL „ Holidays in Armenia: New Year’s, Jan.1-2; Armenian „ Traveling by road at night outside major cities is not Orthodox Christmas, Jan.6; Women's Day Mar.8; recommended. Motherhood and Beauty Day, Apr.7; Good Friday(date „ In urban areas, avoid traveling on unlit streets. varies), Apr. 10; Genocide Memorial Day, Apr.24; Victory and Peace Day, May 9; First Republic Day, May PEDESTRIAN TRAVEL 28; Constitution Day, July 5; Independence Day, Sept.21; Earthquake Memorial Day, Dec.7; New Year's „ Use caution when crossing roads. Few drivers yield to pedestrians. Eve, Dec. 31. „ Pedestrians often do not use caution when crossing POLICE ENFORCEMENT roads. „ Police are underpaid, under staffed and under equipped. Police presence outside Yerevan is limited. „ Enforcement of traffic laws is improving.

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„ Police routinely stop drivers who are driving erratically „ Enforcement of drink driving rules has significantly or dangerously. reduced the drunk driving rate. „ Seatbelt use is strictly enforced. „ Police do not adequately enforce laws against parking „ Police use radar to detect speeding and breathalyzers to on sidewalks. identify drivers with a blood alcohol level exceeding the „ Some officers expect payments at road checks and allowable level. traffic stops. Police salaries are being increased to reduce bribery.

ROAD REGULATIONS „ Driving is on the right. „ BAC limit is 0.08. Driving while under the influence of „ The minimum age for driving is 18. alcohol can result in a fine or loss of license. „ An International Driving Permit or an EU Driving „ Using a cell phone while driving is illegal. Permit is required. Contact AAA at www.aaa.com. An „ Green card insurance is required. IDP is a legal identification document on which driving „ Avoid parking in no parking zones. Police will remove license information is translated into eleven languages your license plate and leave a note telling you where to including English, and can only be used as a pay the fine and retrieve the plate. Do not drive a

supplement to a valid driving license. vehicle without a license plate. „ Seatbelts are required. Drivers are fined if passengers „ No parking signs: fail to use a seatbelt. „ Child safety seats are required. o No parking. „ Speed limits are set nationally, but local authorities can establish lower limits. o No parking, waiting or stopping briefly to pick „ The speed limit in urban areas is 60 km/h. up or drop off anyone or anything.

ROAD WATCH ROAD INFORMATION

ROAD CONDITIONS & USEFUL INFORMATION

NORTH-SOUTH TRANSPORT CORRIDOR The corridor starts in Meghri on the Iranian border and goes to Bavra near the Georgian border. The corridor will be extended to Batumu and Poti, major Georgian ports on the . The corridor is made up existing roads and highways. Each segment of the corridor has been or will be upgraded. Current conditions on some of the segments are discussed below. European Route numbers: M-1 is designates sections of the corridor south of Yerevan. M-2 is the route number of sections north of Yerevan. Some maps show the corridor with its Asian Highway route number. Other maps show its European Route number. Multiple designations for the corridor create considerable confusion.

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ROAD CONDITIONS & USEFUL INFORMATION

NORTH-SOUTH TRANSPORT CORRIDOR The road is being upgraded. The section between Astarak and is being upgraded to motorway quality. From Gyumri, the road continues to Brava on YEREVAN--GYUMRI-BRAVA the Georgian border. From Brava, the road goes to and , a Georgian port on the Black Sea. The Brava-Akhalkalaki section is in poor condition. 4WD vehicle recommended. Minibus service is available. Public transport is limited to minibuses.

OLD ROUTE FROM KAPAN TO THE Many sections were built at a high altitude. The road is narrow, winding, steep and IRANIAN BORDER. has many hairpin turns. The road goes through three high mountain passes. It often closes in winter. Guardrails may be lacking.

NORTH-SOUTH TRANSPORT CORRIDOR High road risk. Many heavy goods vehicles. The road is being upgraded to a 2-lane dual carriageway. The new road bypasses NEW ROUTE FROM KAPAN TO THE some high altitude sections and should stay open in winter. IRANIAN BORDER

KAPAN-SHIKAHOGH ROAD The road has been repaired. The road links many villages near the Iranian border.

MAIN STREET IN VILLAGE Street has been repaved and adequate drainage system installed.

H-17 The Armavir-Isahakian-Gyumri of the road is being upgraded. The road is in Aragatsotn marz.

AYGEHOVIT--- Landslides are common near . The road is being reconstructed. ROAD Improvements include slope stabilization to prevent future landslides. Traffic to Berd must detour around the construction site.

YEREVAN TO ETCHMIADZIN ROAD Traffic is heavily congested.

ARMAVIR BRIDGE Road crashes occur frequentlyly. The bridge is in poor condition. The bridge was built when traffic levels were much lower. Four years ago, the concrete pilings and walls of the bridge began to crack. Pieces of concrete often fall into the creek below. Potholes in the bridge’s surface are filled with dirt. The bridge is on the road that links the cities of Jrarat, Araks, Haykashen, Verin Khatunarkh and Gai to the Yerevan-Armavir Highway (M-5). To avoid the bridge, road users must take a 10 km detour through Etchmiadzin to reach Yerevan.

SARALANJ HIGHWAY (YEREVAN Built to freeway standards, the road links the city’s Kentron and Arabkir suburbs. BYPASS) The road links Myasnikian Ave. and Davitashen Bridge. Relieves congestion in city center and on Baghramian Ave., Abovian Street, Khanjian Street, Heratsi Street and other heavily traveled streets. Heratsi Street has a pedestrian bridge.

LJEVAN TO ROAD Avoid using the old Ljevan to Noyemberyan Road in the Tavush region, due to its proximity to the cease fire line between Armenian and Azebaijani forces. The cease fire has been violated many times. The road links Kirants and /.

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ROAD CONDITIONS & USEFUL INFORMATION

NAGORNO KARABAKH REGION A modern highway, linking Nagorno Karabakh’s five regions. The road intersects NORTH-SOUTH HIGHWAY with the Goris-Stepanakert Highway near the city of Stepanakert. Sections of the road: Bridge of Shekher, Baluja-Dashbulah, Karmir Shouka-, Stepanakert–Balouja and Dashboulagh–Kichan. Obtain a visa from the permanent representative of Nagorno Karabakh in Yerevan prior to entering the Republic.

„ Selected rural roads in the Armavir, Vayots Dzor, Shirak, Gegharkunik, Kotayk, Tavush, and Syunik provinces are being upgraded to all weather routes. Unimproved roads have many large potholes and can be impassable during heavy rains or deep snows. The roads link rural villages with secondary or primary roads. Delays in construction zones and detours are possible. Roads being improved: 1 -Sisian 16 Gyumri-Akhuryan-Musaelyan-Jrarat 2 -Hartashen 17 -Hatcavan--Sisian 3 Geghavanq-Kavjut-M2 18 Mutsq-- 4 Alvanq-M17 19 Qirs-Qyurut 5 Shanidzor-M17 20 -Geghavanq 6 M2-Levaz---Kuris-Karjevan 21 H39--Gegharquniq 7 M17-Meghri 22 Gavar-Tsaghkashen 8 M2- 23 - 9 M2-Agarak 24 Martuni- 10 M2-Tkhkut 25 H17-Armavir--Gyumri 11 Agarak bypass 26 -M4 12 H62, Sisian- 27 --M4 13 H3, Yerevan-- 28 Movsesgyugh-Norashen-Verin Karmir Aghbyur 14 Tcambarak-Vahan 29 M4-Approach to Tsakhkadzor sports complex 15 -

ROAD RECOMMENDATIONS TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS transport services, travelers must get to a main road BUSES and flag down a passing bus or minibus. „ Buses and minibuses supply most inter-city transport. „ Thirty-four international routes are available: Buses can be flagged. o There are daily bus routes to Georgia and Iran. „ Buses are often old, in poor condition and overcrowded. o Service to Istanbul is less frequent, and the trip takes Old Soviet-era buses are gradually being replaced. up to three days. „ Company-operated buses are in better condition than o There are regular routes to Karabakh. most privately-owned buses. „ Inter-city and international buses leave from central „ Inter-city bus or minibus transport is not available to all train stations in larger cities. Many stations are open 24 towns and villages. To reach communities lacking hours daily. A sign in a bus’ front window indicates its destinations. The sign is seldom in English.

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„ Armenian words regarding bus stations: the fare when dropping passengers. Refuse to pay more. o Avtokayaner (av-to-kai-an-NER): bus station Tipping is not necessary, as it is included in the fare. „ o Toms: tickets Fixed route vans (yertoughayin taxis) provide inter-city transport. The vans are generally overcrowded in larger o Tomsarkegh: ticket office cities. Outside main cities, overcrowding is less „ Minibuses provide transport in most major cities and common. Signs in the front window indicate the van’s some smaller towns in Armenia. Some go to other route. The signs are generally in Armenian and Russian. countries. Most destinations can be reached in 1 to 2 Except for a few villages and tourist destinations, the hours, except for the Iran border, which takes up to 10 vans stay on main roads. Passengers must walk, hours. Minibuses can be flagged. sometimes several miles, from the main road to their „ Minibuses do not issue tickets. Passengers pay the destination. driver after boarding. Exact change is not required, but „ Use established taxi companies. use smaller denominations. Tips are not expected. „ Privately-owned minibuses ( or marshrutni) RENTAL VEHICLES follow set routes. Major stops are listed on the vehicle’s „ Rental cars are available. An IDP is required to rent a window in Armenian. Drivers will stop anywhere along car. Obtaining maximum insurance is recommended. the route when flagged down or asked to stop. „ Self-drive rental vehicles are available. Check vehicle o Marshrutka are the most dangerous form of public condition, especially the tires, before accepting the transportation. The vehicles are poorly maintained vehicle. and often lack safety devices such as seatbelts. They „ Hiring a driver is recommended if you never driven are generally overcrowded and are frequently involved outside America, Canada or Western/Central . in road crashes. Agree on the driver’s fee before departing, and do not „ Privately-owned 10-passenger vans (driver included) allow the driver to change the price. The price covers can be hired for day or overnight trips. The vans are the rental fee, the driver’s service and gas. Passengers usually newer vehicles. Cost is per trip and is divided split the cost. Tipping or paying for the driver’s food or among the passengers. lodging is not required, but is appreciated. Most drivers „ A few companies offer tour vans. Fee is per passenger speak Armenian and Russian. Few speak English. Some and includes a tour guide. knowledge of Armenian is helpful.

TAXIS BICYCLES & MOTORCYCLES „ Taxis are readily available in larger towns. Most official „ The mountainous terrain makes cycling difficult. A taxis meet international standards. mountain bike is recommended, especially if cycling „ Taxis provide inter-city transport. Most taxis are long distances. metered. Taxis are often available where minibuses wait „ Cycling is not highly developed. Bring your own bike, for passengers. Taxis can be flagged. helmet, basic spare parts and tools. „ Taxis carry up to 5 passengers. Fares are a little higher „ The Old Jermuk Canyon Road, Canyon Road than minibus fares, but the ride is more comfortable. and the road around are more favorable for Agree on fare before leaving. cycling than more mountainous areas. „ Types of taxis: „ Cycling in Yerevan is not recommended, due to the o Service taxis: Run by a company. Call to have a taxi congested traffic. come to your location. Fares are reasonable. Drivers do „ Motorcyclists are required to use headlights 24/7. not charge foreigners higher fares. Tipping the driver „ Motorcyclists and their passengers are required to wear

is acceptable and appreciated. a helmet. Helmet standards are not set. Bring a helmet „ Corner taxis: Drivers wait near intersections for that meets standards. passengers. Drivers often charge foreigners higher fares. „ Motorcycling is difficult on secondary roads, due to the Agree on fare before departing. Drivers may try to raise frequency of potholes.

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TRAIN TRAVEL „ Crime along roads and highways or against foreigners „ The rail network is poorly developed, partly due to the is rare. country’s mountainous terrain. The only rail route that „ Petty theft and home or vehicle break-ins are the most enters Armenia is the line linking Yerevan and Tbilisi, common crimes. Car high-jacking is not a problem. Georgia. „ Incidents of violent crime are less frequent than in „ Train service to Georgia is available every other day. many Western European countries, but do occur. If Service to Turkey and Azerbaijan is suspended armed, criminals may use force if resisted. indefinitely. „ Incidents of physical aggression or harassment against „ Train service is also available between Yerevan, Gyumri, pedestrians, drivers and passengers have occurred. Alaverdi and Lake Sevan. Fares are low, but travel is „ Crime is an increasing problem on trains to Georgia. slow. Trains are often overcrowded and poorly maintained. Theft is a problem on trains. Secure „ Avoid political demonstrations or rallies, as they could belongings. become confrontational. „ Encounters with stray animals, especially dogs, are AIR TRAVEL common. Avoid contact with them. „ International flights operate out of Yerevan’s airport. „ Armenia’s borders with Turkey, Azerbaijan and the "Republic of Nagorno-Karabakh" are closed. Armed „ There are no domestic flights. military personnel patrol these borders and will stop anyone trying to cross them. CRIME & SECURITY „ Armed conflict has occurred in and near Armenia’s „ The country’s economy is down about 20%, partly due border with the Republic of Nagorno-Karabakh a self- to the global economic crisis. The overall crime rate is proclaimed, unrecognized Armenian enclave within up almost 71%. Violent crimes rose 48%. Fraud and Azerbaijan. There are many landmines in conflict home burglaries are much more common. zones. „ Crime rates are highest in Yerevan and lowest in Gegharkunik, Syunik, and Armavir provinces.

EMERGENCY INFORMATION TOURIST ASSISTANCE „ Inaccuracies common on maps: „ Availability of roadside assistance is poor. o Roads marked as primary roads may have unpaved or „ Emergency numbers: washed out stretches. Some sections may be 1-lane. o Fire 101 o New road connections may not be shown, even on more recent maps. o Police 102 „ Many of the goods and services available in other o Ambulance 103 countries may be difficult to obtain. o Information 109 „ Websites with free, online English-Armenian „ Emergency police and medical services are available, Dictionaries: but response times to remote regions are often long. o English-Armenian Dictionary at „ Tourist facilities are available in Yerevan, but are not http://hayeren.hayastan.com/english/bararanru.html highly developed in other areas. o Free online English / Armenian dictionaries. „ For more information, contact “Armenia Information,” www.yourdictionary.com/languages/armen.html. 3 Nalbandyan Poghots. Phone: (374) 542 303/06 or „ The quality of gasoline varies from station to station in website: www.armeniainfo.am. The website has an cities. Gas sold at roadside stands is often of poor interactive map of the country’s regions and major quality. cities.

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„ Service stations are rare outside of Yerevan. Service and „ Medical facilities: parts are only provided for Soviet vehicles. o Nairi Medical Center, 21 Pronyan St. Phone: 374 10 53-77-42/58-00-99 DISASTER PREPAREDNESS o Emergency & Trauma center: Erebuni Medical Center, „ The country is at high risk for many kinds of disasters, 14 Titogradyan St. Phone: 374 10 47-35-72/47-24-00 including: earthquakes, landslides, high winds and hail o In Jermuk, a clinic provides basic care, but cannot storms, floods, droughts, wars and radiation leaks. attend to more severe injuries. Many large cities, including Yerevan, are in highly active seismic zones. About 70% of the country is prone to „ The U.S. Embassy in Armenia maintains a list of landslides, 30% is subject to severe storms and 10% is at English speaking medical providers: website: risk for flooding. www.usa.am/consular/physicians.php. (ASIRT and the Embassy take no responsibility or the professional „ Over 1,500 km of roads and 150 cities are in landslide ability or integrity of the persons or firms listed.) zones. Landslides develop slowly, but can damage roads, buildings and other infrastructure. During periods of „ Comprehensive travel insurance, including coverage for heavy rain, landslide zones can become mudslide zones. emergency medical evacuation, is recommended. U.S. Mudslides develop quickly, move rapidly and can cause medical insurance is not always valid in other countries. widespread destruction. Check with insurer. „ Deforestation and increasing desertification have made „ Medicare and Medicaid do not cover medical expenses many regions more vulnerable to flooding, landslides rendered outside the U.S. Medigap policies, plans C and mudflows. Provinces most heavily damaged: through J, cover 80 percent of what Medicare would Tavush, Sunik and Lori. cover in the U.S. for the first 60 days of each trip; a $250 deductible applies. Maximum lifetime limit of $50,000. „ Chlorine gas spills and radiation poisoning due to Medicare Advantage may offer coverage for care industrial accidents are possible. abroad. Phone: 800-633-4227; website: „ nuclear power plant is 18 miles from the U.S. www.medicare.gov/publications/pubs/pdf/11037.pdf. Embassy in Yerevan. The aging nuclear plant was built in a seismically active area. The Russian-built plant does not meet international standards. The reactor core has no containment vessel. If the core is breached, a EMBASSY INFORMATION Chernobyl-like disaster is certain. „ The Armenian Embassy, 2225 R Street NW, Washington, DC 20008. Phone: (202) 319-1976. fax: MEDICAL CARE (202) 319-2982 and website: www.armeniaemb.org. „ There are many competent physicians in Armenia, but „ Armenian Consulate General, 50 N. La Cienega Blvd., there are few medical care facilities, especially outside Suite 210, Beverly Hills, CA 90211. Phone: (310) 657- major cities. 7320. „ Access to emergency medical assistance is limited in „ The U.S. Embassy, 1 American Avenue, Yerevan rural areas. Armenia. Phone: (+374) 10-45-47-00, fax: (+374) 10- „ There is a severe shortage of basic medical supplies, 46-47-42, after-hours emergency: (374-10)-494444 and including antibiotics, disposable needles, and website: http://yerevan.usembassy.gov/. anesthetics. o For emergency help on weekends or holidays, call „ Doctors and hospitals frequently require immediate (374-10)-494444. cash payment for medical services. o U.S. Embassy’s Consular Section, 1 American Avenue, „ Most prescription medications are available, but the Yerevan. Phone: (374-10) 49-46-86, fax: (374-10) 46- quality varies. 47-37; email: [email protected]. Open weekdays, 1:30 pm -5:50 pm. „ The elderly and individuals with existing health problems may be at risk due to the lack of adequate medical facilities.

ROAD TRAVEL REPORT: ARMENIA 12 © ASIRT 2010

FOR MORE INFORMATION Contact: Association for Safe International Road Travel (ASIRT)

11769 Gainsborough Road, Potomac MD 20854, USA Telephone: (301) 983-5252 Fax: (301) 983-3663 Website: www.asirt.org E-mail: [email protected]

LANGUAGE TIPS „ There are many differences of grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation between Eastern and . Understanding and speaking Armenia can be difficult. For a few examples, see the following charts:

IRECTIONS WESTERN D EASTERN ARMENIAN ENGLISH ARMENIAN Hyusis North hos, aysdegh estegh, aystegh here Harav South hon, ayndegh entegh, ayntegh there Arevelk East ganchel zangel, zangaharel to phone Arevmutk West

inknatir, samaliot Ughigh Straight otanav airplane (Russian) Ach Right inch bes vonts, inch pes how Dzakh Left oto mekena car Verev Up gukamgor galisem I'm coming Nerkev Down gertamgor g'numem I'm going Ayn Koghm Beyond sar saruyts ice Aystegh Here jampa chanapar road Ayntegh There

ROAD TRAVEL REPORT: ARMENIA 13 © ASIRT 2010

FEATURES DESCRIPTIONS Dzor Gorge Hin Old Valley Nor New Sar Mountain Vat Bad Blur Hill Lav Good Lanj Slope, hillside Layn Wide Lernanstsk Pass Negh Narrow Get River Hart Smooth Ap Riverbank

Caravanatun Caravansaray COMMANDS Janaparh Road Yekek C ome Khachmeruk Intersection Tekvek Turn Kamurch Bridge Gnank Let’s go Gyugh Village Armeniapedia.org, “Western to Eastern Armenian Guide” Kaghak City „ Many Armenian words are from Turkish, but Turkish with an Azerbaijani accent. „ A helpful phrase when lost: “Ur e tanum ays chanaparh” “Where does this road go?”

ASIRT is a non-profit humanitarian organization established in memory of Aron Sobel, age 25, who was killed along with 22 other passengers in a Pamukkale Bus Company crash on the roads of Turkey. © ASIRT 2010

Disclaimer: ASIRT provides this information as a service to the traveling public. This report is intended to represent general road conditions, driving environment, quality of public transportation, medical care and emergency response. It may not be totally accurate in a specific location or circumstance.

ROAD TRAVEL REPORT: ARMENIA 14 © ASIRT 2010