The International Hot Air Balloon Festival
On the Republic Square, early in the morning on October 14th, hot air balloonists from all over the world gathered ๐บ. I had been looking forward to this day for weeks. At half past seven, it was finally time. The Brazilian hot air balloonist was already waiting for our arrival. In total, there were five of us, standing shoulder to shoulder. Shortly after, not only did the balloon rise, but so did our excitement ๐. It felt somewhat insecure. "So helpless, so unpredictable." Max even said he found it worse than paragliding ๐ฏ. But for me, it was the opposite. In the first half-hour, we ascended up to 2000 meters and enjoyed the incredible panoramic view ๐ฅฐ. Then I felt nauseous for five minutes, and luckily I felt better afterwards ๐คฎ ๐คฃ. I don't usually have a fear of heights, but even for me, that was pretty high ๐! (By the way, the ride lasted an hour).
An experience that will probably stay in my memory forever. โจ
Cascade Complex ๐
One of the most beautiful viewpoints over the city of Yerevan is probably the 118-meter-high staircase complex, the Cascade. Don't worry: There are enough escalators available that slowly take you up through the interior of the Cascade ๐. Meanwhile, you can admire the artful exhibits and make a stop on the outdoor terrace at each level. โบ๏ธ
Mother Armenia Complex ๐
In Victory Park, you'll find the "Mother Armenia" monument, which consists of a mausoleum, military museum, and a large statue. ๐ค
From there, you also get another impressive view over the city! ๐
Modern Art Museum ๐จ
In Mashtots Avenue, you'll find the modern art museum, where you can find various paintings and some statues. The artworks are truly impressive, allowing your imagination to run wild. ๐ญ
Vernissage ๐๏ธ
A paradise for all souvenir buyers and shopping enthusiasts. โค๏ธ
Here you'll find a good mix of knick-knacks and high-quality craftsmanship! At some stands, you can even see how the chessboards are made. Did you know that chess is a separate subject in Armenian schools? โ๏ธ
Dancing Fontains ๐ฆ
In the evening, you'll find illuminated water fountains at Republic Square, presenting their water display with diverse music and changing colors ๐ฏ. Additionally, you'll have a view of the Marriott Hotel, the Post Office, the Government Building with Clock Tower, and former buildings of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. ๐ฅฐ
Freedom Square ๐ธ
At this city square, you'll find the Opera and Ballet Theater. It's the most important and largest music theater! ๐ถ
Also, a cool spot to zip around in an electric car ๐ค.
Yerevan Zipline Airlines ๐
A zipline that runs directly under the bridge! ๐ฑ
The first route starts at a height of 123 meters and is 870 meters long. The second one is slightly shorter, only 650 meters in length. You don't really need to worry about much since the track has an automatic stop system installed. That's why it was pretty easy. The only important thing is to ensure that the minimum weight is met, so you don't get stuck halfway ๐คฃ.
Max and I rode together, which was pretty cool! ๐จ
2. Garni๐
The Symphonie of Stones, Garni Gorge
This majestic natural monument is only about 23km away from the capital and is truly admirable! โจ
Das majestรคtische Naturdenkmal liegt nur ungefรคhr 23km entfernt von der Hauptstadt und ist wirklich bewundernswert! โจ