Northern, Western, Eastern, and Southern ARMENIA

The country-side around Armenia is truly pleasant. Small villages, mountains, rivers, and dotted with several ancient monasteries dating from between the 6th and 16th centuries. One of the greatest monasteries, in my opinion, is Geghard - named after the Holy Lance (holy spear) which pierced the side of Jesus after crucifixion. The spear itself was once kept here but has been moved to the treasury of the cathedral of Mayr Tachar in nearby Echmiadzin. I climbed the surrounding high hills with spectacular views of Geghard...and did the 5km lonely road hike to Geghard twice in 4 days....why...because of the cherry, apricot, and plum trees along the scenic way. Towards the north, I explored the Debed Canyon near the Georgian border - did a lot of hiking and visited the monasteries of Sanahin and Haghpat. Also did the town of Dilijan and the remote monasteries of Haghartsin and Goshvank. Could not resist the village of Ashtarak with old churches and monasteries around the Karagh Gorge. Towards the south, in the shadows of mighty Mount Ararat (where Noah's ark docked), I visit the stunning setting of the Khor Virap monastery. Also spent time at Lake Sevan and impressive Sevanavank monastery.

Armenia is a delight, so are its people. The scars left by years of Soviet occupation are evident most everywhere around Armenia. The Armenian people, as well as the Georgians to the north, are less tainted by the Soviets mentality than those in countries such as Romania, Ukraine, Moldova, Belarus, Bulgaria, Hungary....sure you know what I mean!

I'm sad to leave the Caucasus region. I really enjoyed Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia, and disappointed that I did not spent a lot more time in Azerbaijan and Georgia. Maybe...maybe... one day I'll be back.