Yerevan Local Customs

While Armenia is a Christian country, freedom of religion is protected. Armenians are very hospitable and eager to help. Shaking hands is common at first meeting and then departure especially among men. Between men and women, shaking hands is common in professional settings. There are no specific clothing restrictions. Casual dress is recommended for daytime wear (pants and shirt with comfortable walking shoes) and smart-casual for evening wear.
In general, though, it is best to dress modestly.

Armenian hospitality is legendary and stems from ancient tradition. Social gatherings focused around sumptuous presentations of course after course of elaborately prepared, well-seasoned (but not spicy-hot) food. The host or hostess will often put morsels on a guest’s plate whenever it is empty or fill his or her glass when it gets low. After a helping or two it is acceptable to refuse politely or, more simply, just leave a little uneaten food.