How Travel Fuels Our Team Spirit: Vilnius, Abu Dhabi & Sofia

There’s something truly extraordinary about Mantis EVN beyond our commitment to QA. It’s our team-building trips. Sure, we love the usual sports, games, cooking challenges, and outdoor activities. But there’s one thing that brings us together in a way nothing else does: traveling. It’s become our favorite shared tradition, the highlight of every year.

Think about it—when are your most memorable moments created? For us, it’s always while exploring new places. In 2022, our wanderlust was set free with a special team trip to Vilnius. It all started with a spontaneous idea from our founder, Gor Nagdalyan. He gave the team just two days to decide, and within 10 minutes, everyone was onboard, ready for the adventure ahead.

Mantis EVN team at Zvartnots International Airport
Mantis EVN team at Zvartnots International Airport in Yerevan, Armenia.

Beyond the Office: Strengthening Team Bonds Through Global Adventures

Discovering Vilnius: The Birthplace of Our Travels

2022 was the year our airplane adventures began at Zvartnots International Airport in Yerevan. Our first destination? Vilnius, Lithuania’s charming capital, where we explored the cobblestone streets, immersed ourselves in the culture, and shared laughter in the most relaxed setting. 

Mantis EVN team at St. Anne's Church, a Roman Catholic church in Vilnius, Lithuania
Visiting St. Anne’s Church, a Roman Catholic church in Vilnius, Lithuania.

An unforgettable experience during our visit was the trip to the Trakai Island Castle, where we admired its medieval beauty surrounded by serene lakes. We also explored the Užupis neighborhood, a self-declared republic filled with art, creativity, and an inspiring sense of freedom that perfectly matched our team’s adventurous spirit.

From High-Speed Adventures to Unforgettable Encounters: Abu Dhabi’s Magic

In 2023, we set our sights on Abu Dhabi, the jewel of the UAE. This trip was nothing short of spectacular. From admiring the stunning architecture of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to experiencing the thrilling attractions at Ferrari World, where we took on the fastest ever ride, every moment was filled with excitement. 

Mantis EVN team at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

We also spent an unforgettable day at SeaWorld, discovering the fascinating world of marine life, as well as exploring the cultural treasures of the Louvre Abu Dhabi. As we navigated this luxurious, modern city, our bond as a team of QA engineers grew even stronger.

Sofia: Uncovering History and Natural Beauty

Then came 2024, with an unforgettable journey to Sofia. The vibrant capital of Bulgaria welcomed us with its fascinating history, natural beauty, and lively urban life. A highlight of our trip was visiting the stunning Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled in the mountains with its spiritual atmosphere and breathtaking architecture. Each experience here felt like a new chapter in our team’s story—one filled with discovery and shared memories.

A snapshot from our trip to Sofia, Bulgaria.

Building Bonds While Exploring the World

Our trips may be short, but the memories we collect last forever. Every new destination gives us the chance to see each other in a new light, to strengthen our bond, and to feel re-energized as a team. Together, we’ve wandered through new cultures, explored unfamiliar streets, and brought back more than just photos—it’s the shared experiences that define who we are as Mantis EVN.

While we work tirelessly to ensure flawless user experiences for our global clients, we always know there’s another adventure waiting just around the corner. So, where next? We’re open to ideas!