Issue N20
The COVID-19 pandemic impacted the global tourism industry in 2020 with an estimated 74% decline in travel compared to the previous year. Tourism is a key sector of Armenia’s economy, and the country was hit particularly hard by the pandemic and the 2020 Artsakh War. In 2022, before the onset of the tourism season, Armenia’s government abolished its pandemic-related restrictions which saw the number of tourists exceeding the amount compared to the past two years. Most of the issues that the tourism industry faces in Armenia today, however, are linked to the overall challenges it faces. A prosperous, developed and safe Armenia will create the necessary environment for tourism to flourish as well. This month’s magazine issue entitled “Tourism” features articles that look at the efforts to develop tourism in Armenia despite persistent infrastructure, economic and security challenges; the rise of domestic tourism; the potential of B&Bs and guest houses and strategies for diversifying Armenia’s tourism industry.
Illustration by Harut Tumaghyan.
Small guest houses with their unique services and the glimpse they offer into the life of the country’s local residents, have made an important contribution to the development of tourism in Armenia.
Gastro tourism, ecotourism and adventure tourism are expanding rapidly in Armenia. Its rugged topography, culture of hospitality and rich culture is appealing for those looking for memorable and authentic experiences.
After most of the world went on lockdown because of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the complex tourism landscape has led to Armenians looking to their own country instead of the international market for travel options.
The global tourism industry is reviving as COVID-19 pandemic restrictions ease. After a three-year break, Armenia, despite persistent challenges is ready to once again show off its hospitality and share its culture and landscapes with people from all over the world.
EVN Report’s mission is to empower Armenia, inspire the diaspora and inform the world through sound, credible and fact-based reporting and commentary. Our goal is to increase public trust in the media. EVN Report is the media arm of EVN News Foundation registered in the Republic of Armenia in 2017.
