10 Cultural Faux Pas to Avoid While Living in Armenia
Summary: If you've recently arrived in Armenia, here are 10 Cultural Faux Pas to avoid while living there.
Adjusting to a new culture can be a challenging yet enriching experience. When moving to Armenia, it's important to be aware of local customs and traditions to avoid cultural misunderstandings. Here are 10 tips to help expats navigate the cultural landscape of Armenia and foster positive relationships with the locals.
1. Learn Basic Armenian Phrases
While many Armenians speak English, especially in Yerevan, learning some basic Armenian phrases shows respect for the local culture. Greetings like "Barev" (Hello) and "Shnorhakalutyun" (Thank you) can go a long way in making a good impression. Remember that Armenia has its own unique alphabet, so practice your pronunciation!
2. Understand the Importance of Hospitality
Armenians are known for their warm hospitality. If you're invited to someone's home, it's customary to bring a small gift, such as sweets or flowers. Always accept offers of food or drink, as refusing can be seen as impolite. Sharing a meal is a sign of friendship and trust.
3. Respect Religious Traditions
Armenia was the first country to adopt Christianity as its state religion, and the Armenian Apostolic Church plays a significant role in society. When visiting churches, dress modestly and follow the lead of locals when it comes to lighting candles or participating in services.
4. Be Mindful of Historical Sensitivities
Armenia has a complex history, including the Armenian Genocide. It's important to be sensitive when discussing historical events, especially those that may evoke strong emotions. Take time to learn about Armenia's past to engage in respectful conversations.
5. Navigate Business Etiquette Carefully
In business settings, punctuality is appreciated, and a formal dress code is expected. Armenians often engage in small talk before discussing business matters, so be patient and use this time to build rapport with your colleagues.
6. Understand the Role of Family
Family is central to Armenian life. It's common for multiple generations to live together or in close proximity. Show interest in your Armenian friends' family lives, but also respect their privacy and avoid asking overly personal questions.
7. Appreciate the Local Cuisine
Armenian cuisine is rich and varied, with dishes like dolma, lavash, and khorovats. When dining out, it's polite to compliment the food and try a bit of everything. Armenians take pride in their culinary traditions, so your appreciation will be well received.
8. Be Conscious of Non-Verbal Communication
Non-verbal cues can differ from culture to culture. In Armenia, direct eye contact is a sign of honesty and interest. However, be aware that some gestures may not translate as expected, so observe and learn from those around you.
9. Dress Conservatively
While Yerevan can be quite modern, it's advisable to dress conservatively, especially in rural areas and religious sites. Avoid wearing shorts or sleeveless tops in such settings to show respect for local norms.
10. Celebrate the Festivals
Participating in local festivals and holidays can be a wonderful way to understand Armenian culture. Whether it's Vardavar or the Areni Wine Festival, join in the celebrations and use these opportunities to bond with the community.
Living in Armenia as an expat can be a rewarding experience if you take the time to understand and respect the local culture. Share your experiences and seek advice on Expat Exchange's Armenia forum to connect with fellow expats and learn from their insights.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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