It turned very cold when we left Borjomi, maximum 10 degrees rather than 20! Took bus to Akhaltsikhe to see the sights there, and also because it looked as if we could enter Armenia without having to go all the way back to Tbilisi. Visited the much restored castle which was better than the guide book suggested. Did our usual slow tourism. Went to a lovely monastery up in the hills the next day.
Were a bit worried about the border crossing especially as we had Azerbaijan stamps in our passports. Anyway, early bus to Ninotsminda the closest town to the border up a long mountain road, then taxi the last 20km. No problem leaving Georgia then walked across to Armenia. A few questions from the border guards who eventually took us at face value as tourists but wanted to know our itinerary in Armenia. Fortunately had a two-night reservation in Gyumri, the nearest town in Armenia but then had to explain that we decided to move on or not from day to day. They seemed surprised but accepted it in the end so only about 20 minutes of hassle before getting our stamps. Hooray!
Then the problem of getting the 50km to Gyumri. A few lorries, hardly any cars, no buses and no taxis waiting, and all at 2000m of altitude. Then a Georgian taxi appeared and we paid him to move us on, phew. Were in our apartment in Gyumri just after midday, much to our surprise.
Gyumri is the second biggest city in Armenia and was virtually destroyed by an earthquake in 1988. But now it's buzzing, everything is low-rise and the sun was out! Saw a few sights, wandered the streets and got invited into a huge theatre for a jazz orchestra concert. Everyone had tickets but we got pushed through by the receptionist for free. And what a great concert.
Next day a museum of art by two local sisters who travelled the world, and a visit to our first Armenian monastery, on local buses of course.
Moving on tomorrow.
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