Lying at the intersection of Europe and Asia, or what is also known as Eurasia, is the home of sea beaches, beautiful shores and lovely villages- the scenic and mesmerizing country called Georgia. Earlier a part of the Russian empire, Georgia lies in the Caucasus region of Eurasia. Georgians believe that “the guest is a gift from God”, and this is one of those places, where you will be served with hospitality at its best. A country where the guest is valued, cooking is a welcoming tradition with a copious amount of things to do and places to see- you need to explore Georgia as it definitely classifies for the next spot, on your bucket list.
Lying at the intersection of Europe and Asia, or what is also known as Eurasia, is the home of sea beaches, beautiful shores and lovely villages- the scenic and mesmerizing country called Georgia. Earlier a part of the Russian empire, Georgia lies in the Caucasus region of Eurasia. Georgians believe that “the guest is a gift from God”, and this is one of those places, where you will be served with hospitality at its best. A country where the guest is valued, cooking is a welcoming tradition with a copious amount of things to do and places to see- you need to explore Georgia as it definitely classifies for the next spot, on your bucket list.
Georgia is a journey straight into the past and the country has much more to offer than you could possibly imagine.
Now, there is no definite set order I am listing stuff. My job is to let you know about things you mustn’t miss during your trip. Now, if you want to explore Georgia and its amazing atmospheres at one place, Borjomi park is the place to be. From amazing hot sulphur pools to the imposing Prometheus statue holding a ball of fire, this place will calm your nerves down. Enjoy amazing view as you ride in the cable car and hike through the forest to escape the summer street. Take your kids along if you want, they will love it!
Another visual delight is the capital city of Georgia, called Tbilisi. Tbilisi is modern with a touch of ancient architecture. Bars, cafes, eateries are in abundance here. Also known as the ‘old town’ in the country, Tbilisi reflects a significant amount of history, (do visit the Chronicle of Georgia monument if you are into history).
You will not find many western outlets in this city as it is traditional in appearance and warm at heart. When you explore Georgia and journey through Tbilisi, you will be surprised when you discover that Tbilisi has a reputation for its nightlife, however, at the same time, natives here are pretty close to their religion as well. Enjoy your walk as you make through meandering alleys and little streets in this city.
Mtskheta also famous as the religious capital of Georgia, is one of the oldest cities dating back to 4000 years. There are beautiful churches togape at such as Javari, Samtavro Monastery and Svetitskhoveli. If you want to do something different, visit the Gvinis Palata. This wine chamber offers a wide range of activities involving some of the world’s best tasting wine. From learning Georgia wine stories to baking traditional Georgian bread, enjoy all of it with the twist of traditional folk dance and music. In fact, you don’t explore Georgia in totality without sipping its wine.
Chiatura is a pretty town nestled amidst the valleys of Georgia. The only Bolshevik hotbed during the Russian revolution, this town is abundant in dormant mines and is pretty sleepy and laid back in its own right. You ask, what’s the highlight here? Cable cars!! Yes, its the most favored system of transport here, so cover any part of town in less than 10 mins!
FUN FACT: You might have seen this in quite a few films, but Georgians sure drink wine from a ram’s horn. That is not the usual practice. It is done for tasting a special wine called ‘amber wine’.
If you wish to explore Georgia in its contrasting effect, come to Batumi. An absolute contrast from the rest of the cities, this city is truly modern with brilliant reflections of the past here and there. Renovated old buildings and new ones reminiscent of the old, Batumi is one of the most interesting cities of Georgia. Enjoy long walks on the promenade, visit the Europe Square and drop by the Piazza square to feel like you’ are being transported to Italy.
If you have some extra time, do pay this hilly village a small visit and while you are there, visit the Gergeti Trinity Church that’s located right next to Mount Kazbegi, a must-visit spot. Adventurers will love it here.
Also famous as the “hikers’ paradise”, explore Georgia for some of the best hiking trails and adventure sports. Trekking can be enjoyed with absolute bliss when in Georgia. You can go for a few hours hike to the church of Kazbegi which boasts incredible views. If you are more into spirituality and want to seek solace, there are excellent monasteries that you can pay a visit to, when in Georgia. Visiting vineyards is another great activity, wherein you can closely observe the process of grape cultivation.
FUN FACT: Have you ever tried a drink with cheese? Georgians like to drink Iki, a medieval drink that tastes like whiskey with mint cheese! Also dumpling lovers must try this Georgian variant called Khinkali
Watching a Georgian puppet show is quite amusing in the quirky town of Tbilisi. Book shopping is often on the to-do- list, when one is visiting Tbilisi. You can also take a tour of the old sewing factory by visiting the Fabrika hostel.
This might surprise you, but there indeed exists a blend of the sea and mountains at once, yes in Batumi. Be it skiing or sunbathing in a quiet beach, you can venture into both!
Now, while you explore Georgia, make your adventure wholesome by indulging in traditional Georgian food. The exact word to express a Georgian meal is ‘supra’. While the word literally translates into ‘feast’, Georgia is indeed a land of feasting and merry-making. Georgians believe that the finest way to welcome their guests is to feed them in plenty, with sumptuous food.
There is a wide variety of delicacies to choose from, when in Georgia. A large portion of the cooking practice is influenced by the oven system. Baked bread, buns, rolls, are all crumbly, crusty and lip-smacking at the same time. One constant companion of every Georgian meal is the typical cucumber and tomato salad. Not only is it appetizing, but is never missed by the Georgians.
FUN FACT: The little local markets of Georgia are worth your time, energy and effort.
Since Georgia shares its boundary with the Asian subcontinent, it isn’t much a surprise that the country has evident layers of Asian flavors too. Dumplings of all sorts, stuffed with different mixtures are extremely palatable. So, if you wish to enjoy your time in an excellent eatery, maybe Tbilisi is your best choice.
Georgia is often referred to, as the ‘city of wine and love’. And that is indeed, for all the right cause. So, get your tickets booked while you are it!
