Armenia
Landlocked in southwest Asia, this is a country with a long and
fascinating history and splendid natural attractions, resulting in
it quickly becoming an increasingly popular tour destination.
Though technically located in Asia, Armenia is also at times
considered part of Europe. Its geographic position wedged between
the two continents has meant that its culture has both borne an
influence on, and been influenced by, Europe and Asia alike. Where,
for example, it was the first country on the globe to adopt
nationwide the western religion of Christianity when it did so in
about 301AD, due to its locale, has proved an attractive prospect
for a host of Eurasian nations through the ages and has been subject
to invasion from, among others, Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Turks and
Mongols, all of whom have left indelible marks on the culture and
landscape. Few countries can boast so diverse an amalgam of
influences and the Armenia of today is the incorporation of a
multitude of Eurasian characteristics to form a wholly unique and
distinctive cultural environment. For those with even the slightest
interest in architecture or history, our trips to Eurasia are a
must.
View all our Armenia Trips
By far the most prevalent form of Armenian architecture is the
church and there are several designated World Heritage Sites well
worth visiting on our tours: the church of St. Gayane, dating from
630AD; the church of St. Hripsime, which dates from the seventh
century; and the cathedral, built by Saint Gregory the Illuminator
in the fourth century. Christian monuments aside, the country also
boasts structures from its Hellenic, Roman and Urartian dynasties
and the modern-day capital city, Yerevan, is alone home to no fewer
than 20 museums.
Paralleling the bounteous selection of man-made sights that makes
the country more alluring to travellers is its natural environment,
with its stellar mountains, wide lakes, glorious hot springs and
magical caves.
The northern arm of the Mediterranean Sea, the Adriatic Sea, took its name from Adria, a highly prosperous port in ancient Roman times and separates West and East Europe, lapping at the shores of both Italy and the coast of the Balkan Peninsula. Famous for its crystal-clear, bright blue waters, the Adriatic proves of great allure to travellers and our Adriatic tours are the most convenient and picturesque way to tour not one, but several countries, each wholly different from the last. A collage of cultures, architecture and sights enough to make memories for a lifetime lie in wait for our travellers, a feature that few tours or vacations can boast. Join our Adriatic tours to experience the best of both sides of the water.