Armenia??

Contributed by: Tiffany Becker, The Hive Overland Park

I’ll be honest, when my daughter asked if she could study abroad in Armenia, I choked a little bit. I knew nothing about the country and I had no idea where on the globe it was located.

After some quick research, we decided to let her go and planned a family trip (although very hastily) to explore the country before her program started. Our brief investigation did not prepare us for the REAL Armenia – a captivating country full of stunning landscapes, vibrant history, and an incredibly modern capital city that gave off cute-European-city vibes. (No, its not in Europe!)

Its actually nestled between Turkey, Iran, Azerbaijan, and Georgia.

Yerevan, the capital, is one of the oldest cities in the world and its history can be traced back 2,800 years. Seriously old! The city's love of art is evident in the Cafesjian Center for the Arts, a contemporary art museum built as a giant staircase adorned with art installations and gardens. There are picture-perfect views of the city from the upper levels.

Yerevan's relaxing café culture is also a highlight, with many cute coffee shops, fountains and art galleries sprinkled among the tree-lined streets.

When the sun sets, Yerevan comes alive with a vibrant nightlife – street shows, live music, restaurants and clubs open ‘til the wee hours, and people of all ages strolling about.

Although Armenia is idyllic with charming people and culture, its tragic history of mass genocide cannot be overlooked. During WWI, as many as 1.2 million Armenians were killed by the Ottoman Empire and the remaining Armenians were forced to flee the country. Still, today, there are more Armenians living outside the country than inside it. The Armenian Genocide Memorial, in Yerevan, is a powerful and moving tribute to the country's historic genocide.

Armenia has an abundance of beautifully preserved religious sites and since it was the first country to officially adopt Christianity, you can find some of the world's oldest churches and monasteries. One historical gem is the UNESCO-listed Geghard Monastery, a complex of churches and tombs carved into the cliffs. As you explore these rock-cut structures, you'll be transported to an ancient world filled with awe and wonder (for real!)

If you enjoy an adult beverage from time to time, Armenia will not disappoint! It claims the oldest winery in the world, where there is archeological evidence of wine making about 6,100 years ago.

They still grow grapes for wine making from those ancient seeds and there are wineries scattered throughout the country. Armenia also uses its delicious grape varieties to make their famous Ararat brandy (or cognac). Next time you are out for a drink – ask for a bottle of wine or brandy from Armenia!

If you want more of an outdoor adventure, Armenia's diverse and gorgeous landscapes offer a slew of opportunity for hiking, water activities, and just enjoying nature. The jewel in Armenia's crown is Lake Sevan, a picturesque mountain lake surrounded by lush forests.

Dilijan National Park is perfect for a hike on one of the many trails.

If you are really feeling venturesome, you can climb Mount Aragats, Armenia's highest peak.

I highly recommend visiting Armenia! Add it to your bucket list so you don't miss this hidden gem!

Have you had any surprising travel destinations?