When the enforced displacement in Artsakh led to a mass exodus and the cancellation of hiking tours in Armenia, 28-year-old Arpine Mikichyan’s newly founded travel agency, “Around Tavush,” faced a bleak future. With little chance of survival, the situation seemed dire. However, Arpine, a bold and resilient woman with a genuine smile, soon discovered a way to revive her business and increase the allure of Tavush province for foreign tourists.
“In spite of the recent developments, many of which were force majeure events, we survived and are now fully booked for off-road and hiking tours around Tavush,” Arpine admits.
Born and raised in the Noyemberyan region of Tavush province, Arpine always wanted to make a broad impact in Tavush. While studying tourism in Yerevan, she constantly sought ways to return to the mountains of Tavush for rest and entertainment. Upon graduation, she immediately headed back to Tavush and founded the service with her now-husband, Tiran, an off-road professional.
“Tavush has always been seen as a nice and hospitable place, and that’s it. With ‘Around Tavush’ and FAR’s support, we demonstrated that people can enjoy a comfortable lunch or dinner in the mountains without having to spread a blanket on the ground, sit on a stone, or drink coffee standing up. That was a true success.”
The transformation of Tavush into a full-service experience became possible with the support of the FAR’s Breaking the Cycle of Poverty in Tavush Province (BCPP) Program. Funded by the Mardigian Family Foundation since 2013, the multi-faceted and comprehensive program has been promoting activities that generate positive and sustainable impact for families in the Berd, Ijevan, and Noyemberyan regions of Tavush Province.
The support from FAR included acquiring a tent that opens from the side of the car, making it convenient even in the rain, as well as hospitality packages with tables, chairs, a gas stove, a pot, a pan, a kettle, and an organizer. “Previously, we only offered tea and coffee, but now we also provide meals for 40-60 people, which has greatly increased enthusiasm. Guests can now enjoy climbing the mountains, having lunch, and participating in hiking or off-road tours.”
Based on the past six months of bookings, “Around Tavush” is on track to earn 30% more income compared to the same period in 2023.
“People joke that ‘Around Tavush’ attracts tourists through Arpine’s genuine smile and Tiran’s curly hair,” she laughs, adding that every crisis hides an opportunity. “‘Around Tavush’ has now become an opportunity to raise awareness about Tavush Province of Armenia. Tavush is important, and I want people to come, connect, and feel a sense of belonging here.”
To help Arpine attract more visitors to Armenia and Tavush in particular, consider donating to FAR today.
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