Bad roads hinder tourism development in Armenia

In 2010 the Armenian population spent around USD 50-70 mln on holidays abroad. The Armenian Hotel Association chairman Akop Akopian released the information on June 1, where he mentioned different reasons for people leaving Armenia for leisure. In Armenia there are 114 hotels and even in central locations the occupancy rate is around 50%. The bulk of Armenia's tourists come from Russia, Iran, USA, Germany and Italy most of whom are of Armenian origin so they are visiting friends and family rather than staying in hotels. Akopian also mentioned that poor road infrastructure also contributes to a poor tourist climate. Many Armenians prefer to make their holidays in Turkey and Georgia where they feel more comfortable.