Here are food recommendations while you’re traveling!
If you’re in Armenia and this list encourages you to attend any festivals or events in 2023, please don’t hesitate to tag me in any Instagram posts or story @_isis_mack
Birthright Armenia -- My Story and Experience
9 Mar, 2023
The beginning…
My adventure began in the summer of 2018 when I was there for a short study abroad program, and that was when I first fell in love with the country. I left with a deep desire to come back and explore more of what Armenia has to offer.
Fast forward to 2020, during the height of the pandemic, I stumbled upon Birthright Armenia, a program that offers volunteer opportunities and cultural immersion experiences for Armenians around the world. At this point, I was already infatuated with returning to Armenia so I was immediately intrigued and decided to apply. After the interview process, I was approved, and all that was left was to wait until I graduated college. Fast forward almost two years, and a month after graduating college, I set off to Armenia.
Okay, so some of you may know my boyfriend, Drew. We met in the Spring of 2021 once I had already established the fact that I was leaving to Armenia. Obviously we both couldn’t fathom a relationship; we were graduating in a few months and I knew I was leaving the country.
However love had other plans, and by November, Drew had made the life-changing decision to join me in Armenia. After graduating college, we both set off to Armenia, not knowing what was in store for us.
Drew and I at Lake Sevan, Armenia our first month.
What happened next…
What was supposed to be a four-month volunteer stint turned into something much more significant. We fell in love with Armenia’s people, culture, and way of life. We extended our lease, found jobs, became accustomed to the cultural differences and started building lifelong relationships. For me, it was an opportunity to learn more about my heritage, and for Drew, it was a chance to immerse himself in a completely new culture.
Sadly, we had to leave due to our pursuit of graduate school, but the memories and experiences we had in Armenia will stay with us forever and I will be sharing them here, on this blog, until we graduate again, and we both set off to Armenia again…
Birthright Armenia
Participating in Birthright Armenia has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to immerse myself in the beautiful country of Armenia. Through this program, I had the chance to make lifelong friends, explore the entire country, give back to the community, learn about Armenian history, and so much more.
Without Birthright Armenia’s support and guidance, I do not believe I would have had the ability to set my life up in Armenia the way I did. This program helped me lay the foundation of understanding what I need in order to repatriate to Armenia. I now have a deeper connection and appreciation for my heritage and culture, and a better understanding of what it takes to build a life in Armenia.
I highly recommend Birthright Armenia to anyone who wants to explore and connect with their Armenian roots. It’s an incredible program that not only allows you to give back to the community but also helps you build a connection with Armenia that will last a lifetime. Thank you, Birthright Armenia, for an unforgettable experience
Please have a wonderful day and click here to see videos about my experience.
The Beginning - Why I Moved to Armenia.
14 Jan, 2022
Moving to Armenia
Why Armenia?
Armenia has always held a special place in my heart. My mom moved to America from Armenia in 1992. Growing up, all I heard were stories of the land of my ancestors. My family and friends were so proud to be Armenian, and their love for the country instilled in me an admiration for a place I had never been.
When I finally went to college, I was given the chance to study abroad anywhere. In a university with nearly no Armenians. It felt like fate when a professor who was Armenian offered to take students abroad to Armenia. I jumped at the opportunity, excited to explore the land of my roots.
My time in Armenia was transformative.
I fell in love with the country, the people, the culture, and the history. I yearned to stay longer, to explore more deeply, to learn more about the land that had captured my heart.
After my study abroad program, I went on to study in London, but the experience paled in comparison to my time in Armenia. It only reinforced my desire to return to the country that had captured my heart.
Now that I have graduated, I knew it was time to make my dream of an extended stay in Armenia a reality. I completed my birthright application and booked a one-way trip to Armenia, leaving in just five days!
Through this blog, I hope to share my adventure and experiences in Armenia and become a resource for others who may be considering moving abroad. I’m excited to share what I learn and how I navigate the challenges and rewards of living in a new country.
Join me on my journey of love and adventure in Armenia by subscribing to this blog.
Where’s Armenia? Click the photo to find out more!
Lake Como: 3-Day Trip Summary and Cost Breakdown
1 May, 2023
Lake Como is one of the most beautiful and popular tourist destinations in Italy. The stunning lake surrounded by majestic mountains and charming villages makes it a perfect place for a relaxing getaway. If you are planning to visit Lake Como and wondering how much it would cost, we have some insights for you.
Our 3-day 2-night excursion to Lake Como cost us a total of $408, which included travel, hotel, food, transportation, and experiences. This works out to an average of $68 per person per day. However, we must admit that we splurged a bit during our trip and could have easily made it more affordable.
To begin with, we bought two round-trip train tickets from Milan for just $11, which was an excellent deal. We also managed to book a room in an amazing guesthouse for two nights at a cost of $120. The room overlooked the water, and we were walking distance from everything we needed.
We also took a water taxi (a boat) to a nearby city for lunch, which cost us $6 per person. The ride was beautiful, and we enjoyed the scenic views of the lake and the mountains.
When it comes to food, we spent $234 on food over three days. This is where we could have saved some money by avoiding expensive restaurants. We visited every restaurant within walking distance, which included a $100 dinner and a $40 grocery run for wine and snacks.
Overall, Lake Como exceeded our expectations and left us with a sense of tranquility and awe. We visited in October, and we were initially worried that it might not be the best time to visit, but it turned out to be an incredible experience. The natural beauty of the lake, combined with delicious food and charming villages, made it a trip to remember. If you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, Lake Como is a destination you should consider.
Leave a comment below with where you want to visit next. Read more about my travels here
April 24th, 2023 - 108th Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day
24 Apr, 2023
The Armenian Genocide, also known as the Armenian Holocaust, was a devastating tragedy that has left an indelible mark on the Armenian people. From 1915 to 1923, the Ottoman Empire, which is now Turkey, systematically murdered and deported over 1.5 million Armenians. This was done through forced marches, death squads, and mass killings.
The genocide began on April 24, 1915, when Ottoman authorities arrested and executed hundreds of Armenian intellectuals and community leaders in current day Istanbul. This was followed by the forced deportation of the Armenian population from their homes. The atrocities committed during the Armenian Genocide are difficult to comprehend. Entire families were massacred, and villages were burned to the ground. Women and children were raped, and many were subjected to forced labor and starvation. The Armenian people were stripped of their homes, possessions, and cultural heritage.
Despite the overwhelming evidence and international support, Turkey has refused to acknowledge the Armenian Genocide as a genocide. This denial has added insult to injury for the Armenian people and has made it even more challenging to heal from the trauma of the past.
The Armenian Genocide is a tragedy that still resonates with the Armenian people and their descendants around the world. For Armenians, the genocide is a defining moment in their history, marking a turning point in their relationship with their homeland and the wider world. The trauma of the genocide has had a profound impact on Armenian identity, culture, and politics, shaping the country’s modern history and informing its aspirations for the future.
Although the genocide took place over a century ago, it is still relevant today. The Armenian people and their supporters continue to fight for recognition of the genocide as a crime against humanity, and for reparations and compensation for the victims and their families. It is also important to remember that the denial of the Armenian Genocide by the Turkish government and its supporters is an ongoing issue that adds to the trauma of the Armenian people.
As we enter the 108th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, it is important to remember that our responsibility to remember, share, and educate does not end with a single day. The Armenian Genocide is a tragedy that needs to be remembered and recognized every day, not just on a specific date. We must continue to educate ourselves and others about the genocide and its impact on the Armenian people and the world at large.
It is also important to acknowledge that not everyone may have a personal connection to the Armenian Genocide or Armenian heritage, but that does not mean they cannot contribute to the cause. Sharing information and spreading awareness about the genocide is appreciated and important, as it helps to raise awareness and promote recognition of the genocide. We must all stand together to ensure that the Armenian Genocide is recognized as a crime against humanity and that the Armenian people are given the justice they deserve.
Armenia has a long tradition of music that dates back centuries. From traditional folk songs to contemporary pop hits, Armenian music has a unique sound that is both captivating and emotional. In this blog, we will explore 10 Armenian songs that everyone should know.
“Sari Siroun Yar” by Komitas ”
Sari Siroun Yar” is a traditional Armenian folk song that was arranged and popularized by the renowned composer Komitas. This song is a beautiful expression of love, with lyrics that compare the beloved to a beautiful yellow bird. The melody is haunting and is played on traditional Armenian instruments such as the duduk and zurna.
Komitas’s life was spared through the intervention of a group of influential friends during the Armenian Genocide in 1915, but he lived to see everyone he loved to die in the Genocide. Komitas had never recovered from the emotional shock. He died in a psychiatric mental institute in Paris.
Sayat Nova was a prominent Armenian poet and musician who lived in the 18th century. “Dle Yaman” is one of his most famous songs, which he composed for a beautiful woman he was in love with. The song has been covered by numerous Armenian artists and has become a staple of Armenian music.
Dle Yaman performed by Isabel Bayrakdarian, a Lebanon-born Armenian Canadian soprano, and The Minassian Duduk Quartet. Dle Yaman was one the thousands of ancient Armenian folksongs collected and preserved by Komitas.
“Kilikia” is an Armenian folk song about the Kingdom of Kilikia. The lyrics were written by Nahabed Rusinian who was a prominent Armenian poet, publicist, physician, orator, writer, political activist, translator, and contributor to the Armenian National Constitution.
In 2011 The Beautified Project performed Kilikia live in London for a documentary which was filmed by BBC. Soon after, the band’s American Label, requested the song to be recorded. Click here to listen and watch. p.s. there are english subtitiles.
“PreGomesh” by Sirusho
She wrote on her Facebook page that the song was influenced by Lorva gutanerg (Լոռվա գութաներգ) by Komitas. Click here to listen; lyrics translation in caption.
Paul, was an Armenian-American singer, songwriter, composer, musician, entertainer, and businessman. He is referred to as the King of Love Songs. His music is loved by many Armenians and particularly by the Armenian diaspora.
In conclusion, Armenian music is a rich and diverse tradition that spans centuries. From
Alcohol and Armenia: History, Culture & Recommendations.
21 Apr, 2023
Armenia is rich with history and culture; its’ relationship with alcohol is no exception. From traditional Armenian brandy to locally brewed beer, alcohol plays a significant role in Armenia’s social fabric. In this blog, we will take a closer look at the history and culture of alcohol in Armenia. At the end, I will recommend a few popular bars to check out when visiting.
History of Alcohol in Armenia
The tradition of winemaking in Armenia dates back over 6,000 years, making Armenia one of the oldest wine-producing countries in the world. The ancient Armenians would ferment grapes in large clay pots known as karases. A karas was buried in the ground to keep the wine cool. Even today, many Armenian families continue to make their wine using traditional methods.
Armenian brandy is also an essential part of the country’s alcoholic history. In the 19th century, the Russian Empire began distilling grapes into brandy in Armenia. By the early 20th century, Armenian brandy had become world-famous. Today, Ararat and Noy are two of the most prominent producers of Armenian brandy.
Culture of Alcohol in Armenia
In Armenia, alcohol is often consumed as part of a social gathering or celebration. Toasting is an important part of Armenian culture, and it is customary for the host or guest of honor to give a speech before everyone takes a drink. It is also considered impolite to refuse a drink when offered, so be prepared to raise your glass frequently when in Armenia.
Armenian brandy is a popular after-dinner drink. Wine is also a common beverage, with both red and white varieties produced locally. Armenian beer has gained popularity in recent years, with several microbreweries popping up around the country.
Popular Bars in Armenia
When visiting Armenia, there are several bars worth checking out, each offering a unique experience.
Dargett or Dors Craft Beer Bar – Located in Yerevan, these beer bars are a popular spot among locals and tourists alike. With craft beer on tap, selection of local wines and spirits, both are a must-visit for beer enthusiasts.
Calumet Ethnic Lounge Bar – Calumet is known for its sophisticated atmosphere and cocktails. Calumet is the perfect place for a night out with friends.
Paparazzi – If you’re looking for a lively nightclub scene, Paparazzi is the place to be. With two floors of dancing and live music, Paparazzi is one of the most popular nightclubs in Yerevan.
Bar Phoenīx – A flagship cocktail bar of the world famous Ararat brandy. A bridge between the old, the legendary, the new and the outstanding. Lovely cocktails.
Conclusion
In conclusion, alcohol plays a significant role in Armenia’s culture and history, with winemaking and brandy production dating back thousands of years. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or a cocktail connoisseur, there is no shortage of options when it comes to bars in Armenia. So, next time you’re in Yerevan, be sure to raise a glass and toast to the country’s rich alcoholic heritage.
Armenia is a small but fascinating country located in the South Caucasus region, known for its rich culture, ancient history, and stunning natural beauty. Here are 10 random facts about Armenia that you may not have known:
Armenia is one of the oldest countries in the world, with a history dating back to 4000 BC.
The Armenian alphabet was invented in the 5th century by Mesrop Mashtots and is 39 letters
Armenia is famous for its brandy, which is considered to be some of the best in the world. Legend has it that Winston Churchill was a big fan of Armenian brandy. To read more about the history, culture and reccomendations for Armenian alcohol, click here.
Lake Sevan, located in Armenia, is one of the largest freshwater high-altitude lakes in the world.
The world’s oldest shoe, which dates back to 3500 BC, was discovered in Armenia.
Armenians have a strong tradition of hospitality and love to feed their guests. If you visit an Armenian home, you’re likely to be offered a feast of delicious food, including dolma (stuffed grape leaves), khorovats (grilled meats), and lavash bread. Here is a list of my favorite Armenian food!
The Armenian Genocide Memorial and Museum in Yerevan, Armenia, is a powerful reminder of the atrocities committed against the Armenian people in the early 20th century.
The Armenian Church is one of the oldest Christian churches in the world, and Armenia was the first country to adopt Christianity as its official religion in 301 AD.
Armenia is home to some of the world’s most beautiful monasteries and churches, including the stunning Tatev Monastery. To see my top favorites, click here!
And finally, Armenians love to drink coffee, and they take it very seriously. In fact, Armenia is known for its unique coffee culture. To learn more about it, read here.
In conclusion, Armenia is a fascinating country with a rich history and culture, beautiful landscapes, and unique traditions. If you ever have the chance to visit, be sure to try some of their delicious brandy and coffee, and maybe even play a game of nardi with the locals.
diasPROա -- Interview
15 Apr, 2023
During my time in Armenia, I was privileged to have been invited to participate in the diasPROա (pronounced as “diaspro-ah”) podcast. This podcast serves as a platform for highlighting the success stories of diaspora professionals in Armenia, with its title cleverly playing on the word “diaspora.”
I must say that collaborating with the media team of the Office of the High Commissioner for Diaspora Affairs was an absolute delight, and I was thrilled to witness their unwavering commitment to promoting diaspora professionals. I look forward to seeing them continue to amplify the voices and achievements of other diaspora professionals through their remarkable platform.
If you enjoyed this podcast take a moment and follow me on LinkedIn
Medieval Dinner in Prague: My Experience
14 Apr, 2023
During our trip to Prague, we decided to indulge in the Medieval Dinner with Unlimited Drinks, an activity that I was initially hesitant about due to my aversion to gimmicky events. However, we decided to give it a try and booked the 3-course early dinner.
Arrival
Upon arrival, we presented our tickets to the staff and were escorted to a dimly lit room with several tables. We were seated with two other couples and were immediately served our first drinks – Drew chose beer, while I opted for wine. Both options were delicious and we eagerly awaited what was to come next.
Performance
As we dined, we were treated to a series of captivating performances by swordsman, jugglers, belly dancers, and other entertainers, all of which were accompanied by live music. Each show was as engrossing as the last and transported us back in time to a different century. The atmosphere was truly magical and enchanting.
Dinner
For our main courses, Drew ordered the Pork Menu, which consisted of 12-hour roasted pork, while I opted for the Poultry Menu, which included a quarter roasted duck and chicken leg. We both began our meals with a traditional Czech potato soup and ended with a homemade cake. The food was pleasantly surprising and left us feeling satisfied and full.
Price
The dinner and show lasted for approximately two hours, during which we paid a total of $84 for the both of us. Overall, the medieval dinner was my second favorite experience in Prague, following our visit to the wonderful Beer Spa.
Conclusion
In conclusion, I highly recommend the Medieval Dinner with Unlimited Drinks for anyone looking for a unique and unforgettable dining experience in Prague. Despite my initial reservations, I found myself thoroughly enjoying the evening and would gladly return again.
Soaking in Beer While Drinking Beer: What is a beer spa like?
13 Apr, 2023
When Drew and I visited Prague, we were determined to try the Original Beer Spa. The spa is known for its unique beer-soaking experience. Having already soaked in thermal baths in Budapest and sulfur baths in Tbilisi, we were eager to add another bathing experience to our list.
In the beer spa! Na Zdraví! (Cheers in Czech)
Arrival
When we arrived we were greeted by a friendly employee who led us to a very clean private spa room. Our reservation included a 1-hour session in a hand-carved oak barrel. She filled the tub with natural extracts used to brew Czech Krušovice beer, along with hops, barley, and brewer’s yeast. She explained that the witches brew could help regenerate our skin and improve our overall wellbeing.
Soak
Undressing, we settled into the bath and immediately felt the stress and fatigue of traveling wash away. As we soaked in the warm beer bath there was unlimited beer on tap to drink. Eager to get our money’s worth, we sipped and soaked for an hour, enjoying the taste of the locally brewed beer.
As we soaked, the ladies had served fresh homemade beer bread with an incredible spread. By the end of our service, we had each enjoyed anywhere from 8-10 beers.
After the hour-long soak, we were provided with cotton towels and sheets, linen blankets, and basswood slippers. She instructed us to lay on the bed of genuine wheat straw next to the fireplace. It had a personalized anniversary card waiting for us which we appreciated. Laying on the bed helped us fully absorb all the vitamins and extracts from the bath.
Lastly, before leaving, we were provided with beer-infused body gel to take with us and use later. We were also advised not to shower immediately after the bath to allow the nutrients to continue working.
Conclusion
In conculsion, the Original Beer Spa has a long history dating back 2,000 years ago. Their ancestors were aware of the beneficial effects of both spending time in hot baths and drinking beer. Brewer’s yeast has been used for medicinal purposes since ancient times. It has a fantastic source of nourishment for the skin, providing essential B vitamins, carbohydrates, proteins, and organic iron.
Finally, after leaving the spa, we felt rejuvenated, light, and ready to conquer the rest of Prague. Overall, the Original Beer Spa was an experience we’ll never forget and one we would recommend to anyone visiting Prague. We only regret not adding another hour to our reservation.
If you’d like to see more of our expereince these are my Instagram reels from the beer spa! Reel #1 and Reel #2
Blogging is hard. I took the leap in January of 2022 by purchasing my webpage and domain. I faced a multitude of challenges. From designing my own logo to trying to learn WordPress to create a website. Neither were easy and I still am not satisfied with the results. Eventually, I only managed to write four blog posts last year.
This year, I decided to take a personal branding class to learn more about blogging and to force consistency expectations. I never thought of myself as a skilled writer or storyteller. My followers on Instagram can attest to my struggle with spelling simple words. Despite these setbacks, I felt proud of what I was doing in my life and wanted to share it with others. Finding and sharing your value is a challenging task, and I’m still learning how to do that.
Recently, I found myself struggling to decide what to write about. While I wanted to share more about my travels beyond Armenia it is challenging to put my thoughts on a page. I’ve been experiencing a range of emotions about my blogging journey. It’s amazing to see growth, but at times it’s hard to feel significant. Last year, I had only 136 visitors to my site. Within the first four months of this year, I’ve already surpassed that with 368 visitors. Despite this growth, it often feels like I’m shouting into a vast abyss of the world wide web.
My class comes to an end in a month and the academic expectation to produce posts will disappear. I aim to maintain consistency and show up every week to share my tips and tricks. Perhaps six months from now, I’ll be able to offer advice to those who are also trying to navigate the world of blogging and discuss how I stay motivated to keep showing up every week.
With love, Isis
Watch My Feature On: Առավոտ լուսո
5 Apr, 2023
Hi Everyone,
I am nervous about share this video. I was recently featured in on Armenian television program, Առավոտ լուսո, which loosely translates to: Early in the Morning. It took a lot of courage for me to find and post this video. However, I am so grateful to have had the opportunity and experience. The program aired on Channel 1 in Armenia. Since its posting on Facebook, it has been viewed an astonishing 37k times. With likely many more viewers on TV and the program’s website.
I am humbled by the response the video has received and grateful for the opportunity to share my journey in Armenia with such a vast audience. I must admit that I was not expecting such an extravagant video and I regret not wearing a different outfit or styling my hair differently. Nevertheless, I hope that my message about my life in Armenia and how much I love it still resonates with all who watch it.
For those of you who do not speak Armenian, I talk about my experiences in Armenia. Including, how much I have come to love this beautiful country. In the video, my partner, Drew, joins me for a walk around my neighborhood. We discuss all the new and wonderful things we have experienced in the past few weeks that we had been there.
Thank you for taking the time to read my message and for your continued support. I am grateful for the opportunity to share my story. I hope that it inspires you to also get out of your comfort zone and try new things.
