Country Description: Armenia is a nation undergoing profound political and economic change. An external trade embargo is causing difficulties, including interruptions in electrical power and shortages of transportation fuel. Tourist facilities are not highly developed, and many of the goods and services taken for granted in other countries may be difficult to obtain.

Entry Requirements: For information on entry requirements, travelers may contact the Armenian Embassy at 1660 L St. N.W., Suite 210, Washington, D.C. 20036, tel. (202) 393-5983, or the Armenian Consulate General in Los Angeles.

Areas of Instability: Since 1988, armed conflict has taken place in and around the enclave of Nagorno-Karabakh (located within Azerbaijan). There is frequent shelling along many areas of the Armenian-Azerbaijani border. A cease-fire has been in effect since May 1994, though there have been some reports of minor violations.

Medical Information: Medical care in Armenia is limited. The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of English speaking physicians in the area. There is a severe shortage of basic medical supplies, including disposable needles, anesthetics, and antibiotics. Elderly travelers and those with existing health problems may be at risk due to inadequate medical facilities. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services. U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States. Travelers have found that in some cases, supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage, including provision for medical evacuation, has proved to be useful. Further information on health matters can be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's international travelers' hotline, tel. (404) 332-4559 or by visiting CDC's Internet home page at http://www.cdc.gov.

Crime Information: Armenia has a low rate of violent crime, but common street crime has increased, especially at night. The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. The Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" provides useful information on guarding valuables and protecting personal security while traveling abroad. Additional information on the region can be found in the brochure "Tips for Travelers to Russia and The Newly Independent States." Both publications are available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.

Internal Travel: Travelers flying Armenia Airlines should be prepared to cope with frequent delays, unexpected refueling stops, and poor service. Other modes of transportation may be unreliable and uncomfortable. Surface roads are in poor repair in some parts of the country, but most are passable. Train service to neighboring Georgia is subject to frequent disruptions and delays, and crime on board is an increasing problem. Armenia's land borders with Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Nakhichevan remain closed and continue to be patrolled by armed troops who will stop all persons attempting to cross. Visas for travel to Russia are time-consuming to secure in Yerevan and should be obtained prior to arrival in Armenia.

Nagorno-Karabakh: Persons planning to travel from Armenian territory to the self-proclaimed "Republic of Nagorno-Karabakh," a breakaway province of Azerbaijan, should consult the Consular Information Sheet for Azerbaijan for information about travel there.

Currency Regulations: Armenia remains largely a cash-only economy, and credit cards are accepted at some businesses, but not by hotels. Limited facilities exist for cashing traveler's checks and wiring money into the country. Dollars are readily exchanged at market rates.

Drug Penalties: U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in which they are traveling. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.

Registration and Embassy Location: Americans are encouraged to register at the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy, and obtain updated information on travel and security within Armenia. The U.S. Embassy in Yerevan is located at 18 General Bagramian Street, telephone (7) (3742) 15-11-44 and (7) (3742) 15-11-13.