VAYOTS DZOR, Armenia — The American University of Armenia (AUA) is proud to announce the launch of Siranush Manukyan’s bed-and-breakfast, the Siran Guest House, in Areni. This new business has the potential for not only contributing to the local economy but also for establishing higher service standards in the hospitality industry of the region. Supported by AUA Extension’s Turpanjian Rural Development Program (TRDP), this new venture is set to identify new demand and create new jobs in the service industry, while promoting ties among local businesses in the community.
Siran Guest House holds the advantages of quickly becoming a preferred stop for visitors to Areni, thanks to the staff’s welcoming demeanor and hospitality, delicious home-cooked meals, and the warm atmosphere visitors enjoy. In preparation for the opening of the guest house, Manukyan took professional cooking classes to upgrade her skills. She plans to also serve her own homemade wine, offering guests the enjoyment of savoring the unique taste of the region’s winemaking heritage.
The grand opening, held on November 22, was a joyful community celebration attended by Manukyan’s family, friends, local residents, and TRDP representatives. During the event, Manukyan recognized the immense assistance she had received from TRDP expressing her heartfelt gratitude to AUA Extension for helping her realize her dream.
Giving back to the community is at the core of Manukyan’s business philosophy. Beyond creating three new jobs, she has partnered with local farmers and producers sourcing fresh ingredients from them and helping boost the local economy.
The AUA Turpanjian Rural Development Program offers training, funding, and mentorship to new and existing businesses in rural communities across Shirak, Tavush, Vayots Dzor, Gegharkunik, Lori, and Ararat provinces of Armenia, as well as Javakhk, Georgia. To learn more about eligibility and application details, visit the program’s website. Applications are now open for the next round of training.
