Surrogacy in Armenia – recommendations for your leisure time

Armenia is a new destination for realizing the dream of parenthood. It offers a stable and clear legal environment for couples and singles who are interested in the international surrogacy process.

The modern Armenian legislation recognizes parental rights from the moment of birth, with a clear legal framework that defines the rights and obligations of all parties involved in the process.

If you are already in Armenia and have some free time, you will discover that Armenia is a hidden gem with plenty of family-friendly activities. Armenia has stunning landscapes, interactive museums, cultural festivals, amazing national parks, and delicious traditional food.
So whether you are waiting for your baby’s birth or planning a family vacation after the birth, Armenia offers a wealth of unforgettable experiences. To help you make the most of your time in Armenia, we have compiled a list of places that we recommend you get to know while there.

1. Lake Sevan: Lake Sevan is one of the largest lakes in the world, and it’s absolutely stunning! Imagine crystal-clear waters reflecting the blue sky and the snow-capped mountains surrounding it – it’s a truly breathtaking sight. At an altitude of about 1,900 meters above sea level, this natural gem spans 1,242 square kilometers and offers a wealth of activities. You can go fishing, boating, try waterskiing, or enjoy a relaxing hike through fields of wildflowers. The lake is also home to diverse wildlife, including swans, fish, and various bird species.
   
   
2. Dilijan National Park: After marveling at the stunning views of Lake Sevan, it’s time to delve into the beauty of Armenian nature and discover Dilijan National Park, also known as the “Switzerland of Armenia.” The park is located near Lake Sevan and offers a unique experience with breathtaking landscapes, impressive architecture, rich history, and a variety of activities. The park is covered with large green forests, providing a serene atmosphere for hiking and biking and is known for its natural mineral springs, which are used for medical treatments.
   
   
3. Yerevan, the capital of Armenia: As you stroll through this vibrant city you can enjoy a unique blend of old and new, which attracts visitors from all over the world.
   Yerevan combines history and modernity through its beautiful architecture. The city is called “the pink city” due to the color of its stone buildings and offers wide boulevards, lush parks, and beautiful public squares, including Republic Square. At this central square of Yerevan (where we recommend starting the tour) you can enjoy the sight of stunning fountains and historical buildings.
   
   
4. Cascade Complex: One of the most prominent and beloved sites in Yerevan. It is an impressive architectural project that combines wide stairs, sculptures, fountains, and stunning gardens, serving as a central landmark in the city. At the top of the stairs, there is a rich collection of modern art and a breathtaking panoramic view of the city extending to the Ararat Mountains. And if you get hungry, there are cafes and restaurants near the Cascade, where you can enjoy local food as you take in the beautiful view.
   
   
5. Vernissage Market: A large, colorful, and vibrant market in Yerevan that operates on weekends and offers an enormous variety of local products, handicrafts such as carpets, pottery, and jewelry, art objects including paintings and sculptures, souvenirs, dried fruits, spices, and traditional foods (bring cash as not all stalls accept credit cards and don’t hesitate to haggle over prices). At the market, you can listen to musicians playing between the stalls and savour the aromas of street food filling the air. Wear comfortable shoes (the market is large) and arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.
   
   
6. Museums: Armenia is a country rich in history and culture, offering visitors a variety of museums that showcase the country’s rich history. The main museums in Yerevan are:
   National History Museum of Armenia, which presents the rich history of Armenia from prehistoric times until present day, including a large collection of archaeological finds, weapons, jewelry, and everyday items. The Armenian Genocide Museum commemorates the victims of the Armenian Genocide and includes comprehensive documentation of the events, testimonies of survivors, and personal exhibits. For art aficionados, there is the Art Museum next to the Yerevan waterfall which offers exhibitions of modern art, lectures, films, concerts and educational initiatives for adults and children.
   
   
7. Historical sites: Armenia offers visitors a wealth of fascinating historical sites and a rich heritage of monasteries, churches, and historical buildings.  Not to be missed are the Khor Virap Monastery located at the foot of Mount Ararat and considered the holiest site in Armenia, the ancient Armenian Cathedral of Zvartnots built in the seventh century and one of the largest religious buildings in the world at that time, the impressive Yerevan Cathedral located in the center of Yerevan and considered the national symbol of Armenia, and the impressive Devil’s Bridge, entirely made of stone, built in the 17th century and spanning the Vorotan River.
   
   
8. Armenian cuisine is known for its tender meats, fresh vegetables, delicious pastries, and excellent wine (don’t miss the opportunity to taste it). Some of our favorite Armenian dishes are khorovats – skewered smoked meat over coals, khachapuri – cheese bread baked in the oven, dolma – grape leaves stuffed with rice, minced meat, and vegetables (the Armenian version has a unique taste), harissa – traditional orange lentil soup, and gata – sweet corn cake usually served with butter.
   
   
9. Malls: Armenia also offers a varied shopping experience. In Yerevan you can find a wide variety of modern malls offering international brands and local shops, including:
   Dalma Mall: the largest mall in Yerevan, offering a wide range of international and local stores;

Yerevan Mall: a modern mall offering a wide range of shops, restaurants, and cinemas.

Cascade Shopping Center: A small shopping center located in the center of Yerevan, offering a wide range of luxury stores.

1. Transportation: Armenia has good public transport options that will allow you to move comfortably and freely throughout the country. The bus network in Yerevan and other major cities is dense and regular, the buses are comfortable and cheap, but it is important to check the routes and schedules in advance. There are also minibuses that, although fast and cheap, can be crowded during peak hours. In Yerevan, there is also a small but efficient metro system. Intercity trains operate between Yerevan and other major cities in Armenia, and the taxis are relatively cheap. You can hail a taxi on the street or order one through Uber or Taxi apps (it is advisable to agree on a price before the ride).

We wish you a pleasant stay in Armenia and good luck!