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From: Wally Doerge <76702.1202@compuserve.com>
Subject: NEW TRAVEL INFO -- Armenia
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Date: Tue, 12 Dec 1995 15:41:43 GMT
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STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Armenia
============================================================
Armenia - Consular Information Sheet
 December 11, 1995

Country Description:  Armenia is a nation undergoing profound 
political and economic change.  In addition, a transportation and 
natural gas embargo is causing severe food and medical shortages, 
frequent interruptions in electrical power, and shortages of 
transportation fuel.  Internal travel, especially by air, may be 
disrupted by fuel shortages and other problems.  Tourist facilities 
are not highly developed, and many of the goods and services taken 
for granted in other countries are not yet available.

Entry Requirements:  For information on entry requirements contact 
the Armenian Embassy at 1660 L St. NW, 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 ceasefire 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.

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.  Train service to neighboring Georgia is subject 
to frequent disruptions and delays, and crime on board is an 
increasing problem.

Currency Regulations:  Armenia is a cash-only economy.  Traveler's 
checks and credit cards are not accepted.

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 who register at the 
Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy may 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.

 No. 95-161

This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated November 25, 
1994, to note a new Armenian Consulate General in Los Angeles.


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