Old Souls & Artsy Streets in Gyumri

#summervacay Gyumri totally caught me off guard, in the best way. It’s got this super authentic, laid-back vibe with tons of history and a little artsy edge. I spent the day just walking around the city center, and everywhere you turn there’s something cool to see, crumbling stone buildings, quirky statues, and those classic black-and-red tuff houses that make the streets feel like an open-air museum. The locals are so friendly, like genuinely curious and happy to chat. I popped into a few little cafes and galleries, super cozy and full of character. The Vardanants Square is a must, with epic architecture and just enough people-watching to keep things interesting. There’s also this quiet resilience to the city. It’s been through a lot (earthquakes and all), but it’s still standing proud and full of life. The pace is slow, the food is good, and the overall vibe is real. Gyumri isn’t polished, but it’s soulful, honest, and totally worth the visit.