Experience in Vanadzor, Armenia by Rose

What is it like to live in Vanadzor? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Vanadzor is a quiet city. There isn't so many places of interest, but if you are a person who likes quite life Vanadzor is for you. And it is a safe city.

What is the student lifestyle like in Vanadzor?

Students are very active, especially if you are a member of student council you can enjoy your student life. They organize a lot of interesting campaigns, celebrations, so you won't be bored.

How much does it cost to live in Vanadzor?

It doesn't cost so much to live in Vanadzor. Everything is cheap and you can buy and have what you want.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Vanadzor? Is there any advice you can give?

As Vanadzor is a small city, it isn't difficult for a student to find an accommodation. The only problem is that universities in Vanadzor don't have campuses, so you have to rent a flat, but it is cheap, with 100€ you can find a good flat for you.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Armenia has a rich cuisine. You must taste Armenian tolma, barbecue, which differs from other barbecues. What concerns fruits Armenia is a homeland of apricot, which is very tasty. To sum up I can say that you will like Armenian food.

What places would you recommend visiting in Vanadzor?

Our city has many churches, that date back to old times. One of places is 1.House-Museum of Stepan Zoryan(Stepan Zoryan was an Armenian writer), which has a beautiful garden where you can breath a fresh air; 2. Mashtots Hill is for those people who are interested in archaeological sites. The site includes remains that date to the 4th-3rd millennia BC; 3. Lori-Pambak Archaeological Museum; 4. Vanadzor Botanical Garden of Vanadzor is one of the most beautiful places to visit; 5. Hayk Square is the main square of the city. It’s rather large and is a nice place for an evening walk.

Is it good to eat out in Vanadzor? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

If you want to relax and drink a cup of coffee you must go Jazz cafe, which is at city centre. If you want to eat tasty food you can go to Oasis cafe, or Isagri Pub.

What advice would you give future students headed to Vanadzor?

Vanadzor has many volunteering centres, and NGOs, you can join them as they always invite students from different countries and may be you'll find someone from you country. You'll never feel alone in Vanadzor as people in Vanadzor are very kind and sociable, and they are always ready to help you. Welcome to Vanadzor and enjoy your stay.