Kindness, scenery & tensions

Armenia is treating me very well. The people are open and generous to guests. Here and there, I receive invitations to eat and drink. Shopping in mini-markets without drinking one or two self-distilled vodkas out of a 5 liter bottle would be disrespectful.
The kids are curious in particular. At first, they are a little shy but the ice is broken soon after sharing a friendly smile. Some of the kids here learn English at school and are eager to practice. We have some basic conversations and they seem to be as excited as I am. Photo shootings with lots of selfies are a must - I want photos with them and they want photos with me. Having some candy at hand to raise a smile and see the spark in their eyes is priceless.

The further I cycle south, the more military convoys I spot. The border to Azerbaijan is very close, sometimes only a few kilometers away, and one can really feel the tensions between the two countries. In fact, the unofficial border in some territories is moving daily. Most of the Armenian soldiers I have met so far are kind, greet me with a handshake and a smile. Pride and hope I can sense in their eyes.
It makes me think a lot and sometimes feels like being in another world.Read more