GMT +4.
Electrical current in Armenia is 230 volts, 50Hz. Round, two-pin attachment plugs and Schuko plugs are in use.
Armenian is the official language, and it has its own alphabet. Russian is widely spoken and English is becoming more prominent.
There are no immunizations required for travellers to Armenia but vaccinations for hepatitis A and hepatitis B should be considered. There is a small risk of malaria between June and October in some of the villages of the Ararat Valley. Tap water should not be drunk, unless filtered or boiled. Medical care is limited, particularly outside of Yerevan, and treatment is not recommended for anything major. Comprehensive medical insurance should include emergency medical evacuation. All required prescription medication should be taken along, in the original packaging and accompanied by a signed doctor's note.
Many restaurants in the capital will add a service charge onto the bill, but this generally does not go to the staff, so tips are welcome in Armenia. A tip of about 10 percent is fair.
Crime is relatively low in Armenia, but travellers should still be careful with their personal possessions and avoid any unnecessary displays of wealth. Pickpockets take advantage of crowded market areas. Avoid travel near the border with Azerbaijan due to continuing tension between the two countries.
Armenia is an orthodox Christian country and the locals tend to be conservative, especially outside of the capital. Women should avoid wearing shorts and short skirts, particularly outside of Yerevan. Military bases and installations should not be photographed. Homosexuality is no longer illegal in Armenia, but homophobia is still a problem.
Business is conducted fairly formally in Armenia; dress tends to be conservative and good etiquette is important. Business hours are Monday to Friday from 9am to 6pm, though there is some variation between businesses.
The international dialling code for Armenia is +374. Mobile phone networks have coverage throughout Armenia. Post offices and major hotels have international dialling access, but calls are expensive. Internet cafes are available in Yerevan and other large cities. Armenia still tends to be a bit backwards with regard to communications, but fibre cables are being laid, and wifi is available in built up areas such as Yerevan, in hotels, cafes and bars.
There is free import on 400 cigarettes or 10 cigars, 2 litres of alcohol, perfume within a monetary limit and personal goods of up to US$400 in value.
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