Inflow of tourists in Armenia is growing with every coming year, says Mekhak Apresyan, the head of the Tourist Department, Economy Ministry of Armenia.
Talking to reporters on May 13, Apresyan said around 1.2 million of tourists visited Armenia in 2014, which is by 11.3% more than a year ago. A 12.6% growth of tourist flow was registered also in 2013. Apresyan said the internal tourism is also growing: 30.1% and 28.4% in 2013 and 2014, respectively.
The expert said various festivals in the country's regions also attract tourists. The most popular is the All Armenian Barbeque Festival in Akhtala, Lori region, and the Wine Festival in Areni, Vayots Dzor region. He said up to 5,000 people visit the Barbeque Fest every year. According to Apresyan, such festivals help restore and present the Armenian traditions and boost tourism in the regions of Armenia.