Georgia as a whole. Life in Georgia
2 Freedom Square, Tbilisi, Georgia
About Georgia
Should I go or not to Georgia? Definitely yes! At least once.
Next - either you will love this country with all your heart, or you will not understand. This is not sleek Türkiye, this is not combed Mediterranean. Georgia is hospitality, it is sea and mountains, it is gentle sun, it is architecture, traditions, it is…. breathtaking! Ours are distinguished by high-quality service and reasonable prices.
Georgia is, first of all, people. Adequate, hospitable, welcoming.
Come and discover this amazing country!
General information and interesting facts about Georgia
The capital is Tbilisi. The total population is about 4.5 million. The capital is home to about 1.5 million people. National groups - Georgians (83.7%), Azerbaijanis (6.5%), Armenians (5.7%), Russians (1.5%), Ossetians (0.9%), Kurds and Yezidis (0.5 %), Greeks (0.3%), Chechens and Kists (0.2%), Ukrainians (0.2%), Assyrians, Avars, Abkhazians and others.
Language
The official state language is Georgian. People over 30 understand and speak Russian almost everything. Young people speak Russian less well, but speak English fluently. If you speak even a little Russian and English, you will not be lost. But just in case, use the short one.
Religion
Georgians profess Orthodox Christianity. Georgia is one of the first countries to accept Christianity in general. Georgians are quite religious in general, but not fanatical. In Tbilisi there is a square, which is also called the square of five churches - on one heel there is an Orthodox temple, an Armenian church, a Catholic cathedral, a synagogue and a mosque. 
Georgians treat other religions with respect. There are quite a lot of Muslims here. Some Abkhazians, as well as Georgians in the southern and southwestern regions (Adjara, etc.) profess Sunni Islam. Azerbaijanis, Assyrians and Kurds are also Muslims. Armenians, Greeks and Russians have their own Orthodox churches. There is also a small number of Catholics in Georgia.
About money in Georgia
The official currency of Georgia is Lari (GEL) = 100 tetri.
1 GEL = $0.37 in 2018
Currency can be changed at a bank (on weekdays from 9-00 to 18-00) or at currency exchange offices. There are many of them and most of them are 24/7. You should not exchange currency by hand.
In hotels, most shops and cafes you can pay by card. But it’s still worth having cash with you.
Geography
Georgia is a mountainous country, located in the central and western part of Transcaucasia. The area of Georgia is 69,700 km². The state borders on Russia in the north, Azerbaijan in the east, and Armenia and Turkey in the south.
The Black Sea coast of Georgia has a length of 308 km and is devoid of any significant bays, islands or peninsulas. In the north of Georgia there is the Greater Caucasus Range (the highest points are the city of Shkhara, 5068 m; the city of Kazbek - 5033 m). In the south is the Lesser Caucasus ridge, between the Greater and Lesser Caucasus ridges are the Colchis Lowland and the Kartli Plain, and in the east is the Alazani Plain.
The main rivers are Kura, Rioni; lakes - Paleostomi, Aletkel, Paravani. About 2/5 of the territory is occupied by forests.
Climate of Georgia
In the west - subtropical, in the east - transitional from subtropical to temperate. The average temperature in January is from +3 to +9 C, but in mountainous areas it can drop to -16-20 C. During the long summer the weather is predominantly hot, and the average temperature in August is +23 C - +26 C almost throughout the entire territory Georgia.
There is much more precipitation in Western Georgia than in Eastern Georgia. Snow falls mainly in mountainous areas in November and does not melt until the end of spring. The climate of Georgia is favorable for year-round recreation and treatment; nature pampers with a constant abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables, which is especially important for visiting residents of the northern regions and areas with poor ecology.
Useful information
Georgians are very hospitable and always ready to help. If you have any questions, feel free to ask passers-by. But there are some that are worth considering.
Smoking is not prohibited - almost everyone smokes everywhere in Georgia. In the summer of 2017, a law restricting smoking in public places came into force.
They don't follow traffic rules - cross the road carefully. There are practically no accidents.
When planning a vacation by the sea, the choice of most Belarusians, as a rule, fluctuates between the classic Turkey, Egypt, and Bulgaria. At the same time, today there is an opportunity to enjoy not only the warm sand and bronze tan, but also get to know the unforgettable splendor and unique culture.
1. Mountains
Two-thirds of the country's territory is mountains: the highest peaks, glaciers, waterfalls, alpine meadows, nature reserves, and breathtaking landscapes. It is here that you can feel the full power of the Caucasus Mountains and see the famous five-thousanders.
2. Amazing photos
– just a paradise for a photographer! The cities delight the eye with the thick greenery of grass and trees; when we rise a little higher, the flowering trees around us will sparkle with delicate colors, and the snow-white ridges will be sprinkled with powdered sugar. Just a photographer's paradise! Your friends will definitely be jealous of your photos!
3. Wine
– this is a real paradise for wine connoisseurs. You will taste a wide variety of fine wines made from different grape varieties. During our travels we will meet winemakers and learn from them the ancient traditions of wine production. They will also show us wine cellars - maranis, some of which are centuries old. Well, those who like something stronger should try homemade chacha, made, among other things, from fruit.
4. Georgian cuisine
The food in Georgia is truly amazing! Satsivi, khachapuri, lobio, chakhokhbili, khinkali and other famous Georgian dishes can be eaten in Russia, in cafes and restaurants, however, these dishes still taste best here - here the water is different, and the products are the same, natural and sunny.
5. Hospitality
Hospitality, which is talked about so much. You will be greeted as if you were a family member, will be helped to check into a hotel, and will be fed with your whole family.
6. Prometheus Cave
It is located near the village of Kumistavi. Discovered in the last century, today it is completely open to tourists. The rock formations and cave lake deserve your attention.
7. Mineral water
Try a healing drink. Famous mineral water with wonderful properties of Borjomi directly from the springs!
8. Tbilisi
All the wealth of monuments and attractions of Tbilisi is divided between two parts of the city. This is the historical center “Old Town” and Rustaveli Avenue. It is here that the most interesting objects of history and architecture are concentrated.
9. Temples
A very religious country, perhaps even more religious than Ukraine. Churches, no matter how big or small, new or old, have always been full of believers. Georgian Orthodoxy was founded one of the first - in the 1st century AD.
10. Ancient and beautiful architecture of Georgia
The opportunity to visit the most ancient monasteries of the Caucasus, famous Orthodox churches, the city of love Sighnaghi, the cave city of Uplistsikhe... And the capital itself - ancient and forever young Tbilisi - amazes with its unique architecture. Sung in many songs, it makes an indelible impression.
read in UkrainianWhat not to do, what not to say and what not to mix - tips for tourists from the site.
Photo 1 of 11:© travelgeorgia.ru
In one small but very proud country called Georgia, warm and hospitable people live.
Be prepared to be given wine to drink simply because you are a traveler and stopped right next to this house to ask for directions.
You will be treated to the most delicious khachapuri in the world called “Titanic”, told many wonderful legends and heartfelt toasts and will definitely be asked to drink to the bottom “for peace” and “For Georgia”.
Guests in Georgia are sacred. And in order for you to be the “proper guests” in Georgia, we have compiled a list of things that you should not do here:
1 .One of the most important and experience-tested tips for tourists in Georgia is do not mix chacha with wine.
Feasts in Georgia can be long, because for Georgians, meetings at the table are communication. The main thing here is to correctly calculate your strength. After all, there are several obligatory toasts for which you simply cannot help but drink to the bottom.
If you take up wine, drink wine all evening, and if you choose chacha, do not change it for anything.
2 . If you nevertheless violated point “1”, there is still a way out - never try to overcome a hangover with the help of something other than Borjomi.
In the morning after long feasts, Georgians always improve Borjomi’s health. Four glasses of mineral water - and you can drink more.
3 . Our third piece of advice is also related to the feast - never interrupt the toastmaster. The toastmaster is the main person at the feast in Georgia. He keeps order, his word is the law, and disobeying it means showing disrespect for Georgian traditions. He himself can pass on the honor of making a toast to someone else.
4 . And the last piece of advice related to the feast - do not try to sneak away from the Georgian feast. They will never just let you go. Having announced that you are going to leave, get ready to drink the obligatory toasts for at least another half hour and only after that you can say goodbye to the hosts and toastmaster.
5. Don't yawn on the streets in Georgia. Today Georgian cities are a complete construction site. Scaffolding on all facades, dug up roads, mountains of sand, people repairing something even at night - this is how the streets look today in all cities of Georgia.
Everywhere something is being restored or built - so on Georgian streets you need to be as careful as possible so as not to fall into a hole, get hit by a brick or run over by a car.
6 . Don't give alms to the gypsies.
This advice relates to the feeling of compassion that is common in many people. Guided by such a noble impulse, you can succumb to the persuasion of the cute dirty gypsy children on the streets of Tbilisi to “give a pretty penny.” But as soon as you show weakness, they will surround you and knock you down, asking for more and more.
7. Do not enter temples in shorts, with your head uncovered and your shoulders bare.
There are many ancient temples in Georgia, but, as always, there is not enough time to see everything. If you stop by on an excursion to the temple on the way from or to the beach, be prepared for the fact that you will not be allowed into the shrine.
Moreover, if you do come in, you may be kicked out with shouts. In Georgia, this is very strict, and Georgians respect their traditions - you cannot enter church with bare shoulders, in shorts, flip-flops, and girls with bare heads.
8. Georgians are open people. They love to sing loudly, have fun, and talk loudly on the streets. But what it’s better not to talk about loudly on the streets is “thieves in law.” The fact is that since 2004, Georgia has declared war on “thieves in law.” Georgian law enforcement officers took into account the fact that, according to the “thieves’ code,” a “thief in law” could not deny his title. Therefore, in Georgia they introduced the following rule: if a person publicly admitted that he was a thief in law, he would be sent to jail for 10 years.
9 . In Tbilisi it is better to speak Russian or the worst English, but in no case broken Georgian. By distorting this beautiful language, you risk getting into a funny situation. For example, many tourists pronounce the name of the city “Gori” so that it turns out to be “pig”. There are some nuances in pronunciation that are elusive to the traveler’s ear.
10 . And finally, again about the feast - well, you simply cannot be in Georgia and ignore Georgian cuisine. Don't go to pizzerias or fast food restaurants.
On the street or in a restaurant, be sure to try the most delicious lavash and khachapuri in the world, the original recipe for which is found in every region of Georgia. The famous Suluguni cheese, kebab with fragrant Georgian seasonings, delicious khinkali - it’s simply a sin to be in Georgia and not try all this.
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It is difficult to unequivocally answer the question of why tourists seek to spend their seaside holidays in Georgia. Some of them are attracted by the hospitality of the local residents, others are delighted with the national cuisine, and still others are able to endlessly admire the beauty of the Caucasus Mountains. In this article we want to tell you about Georgia’s seaside resorts, prices for holidays and a little about the peculiarities of life in this country.
Batumi
This city is rightfully considered the main Black Sea resort of the country and thousands of tourists come here every summer. You can stay here in one of the many family-type hotels, where you will be rewarded with a minimum set of amenities for a small fee. If you prefer to live in style, there are several five-star hotels at your disposal. All of them will not only provide you with a roof over your head, but will also help brighten up your leisure time. The cost of a room in such a hotel will vary from four to nine thousand rubles, and a room in an unassuming double room will cost about three thousand. You can have fun in this city. The sea will be waiting for you in the central one. In summer, this is the most popular place in the city and it is almost impossible to find free space on the beach. Beach discos, walks along the central half-kilometer boulevard, sightseeing and a rich excursion program await you. In addition, here you can try Adjarian cuisine and fine southern wine.
Georgia. Tbilisi
This diverse city is not only the political or economic, but also the cultural center of the country. Founded on hot springs, Tbilisi is still famous for the sulfur baths of Abanotubani. In this area, you can not only improve your health, but also get simple spa services: massage and bathing. You can have lunch and relax after the procedures in one of the many restaurants or cafes. Experts recommend that tourists order the classic combination of “khinkali plus khachapuri” and, of course, a bottle of Georgian wine. The average lunch costs $12-14 for a sizeable portion. known throughout the world for its rich cultural heritage. Therefore, if you find yourself in this city, do not miss the opportunity to visit its cathedrals, churches, museums and centers of folk crafts.
Summer in Georgia by the sea. Kobuleti
This Black Sea resort is located just 20 km from Batumi on the Black Sea coast. Thanks to its unique microclimate and clean air, Kobuleti is considered one of the best Caucasian health resorts. Doctors recommend people suffering from kidney and liver problems to relax here. Tourists come here not only on vouchers, but also in the old fashioned way, as “savages”. Fortunately, there are no problems with housing here, since not only expensive hotels, but also homeowners in the private sector are ready to accommodate travelers. The cost of a room at this resort is not much different from the cost of a room in Batumi. For example, hotel accommodation for a day with three meals a day will cost 50 to 110 USD. Do not forget that you will have the opportunity to undergo treatment at the nearest hospital, where the cost of the procedure varies from seven to twenty USD.
Kvariati
This small and quiet village is considered one of the best resorts in Adjara. It is located near the Turkish border near Batumi. The Black Sea in Georgia is found in Kvariati with long and wide beaches. Despite the apparent modesty of this settlement, tourists can get everything they need here: there are umbrellas with sun loungers on the beaches, there are inflatable mattresses for children, and for adults, however, the main charm of this small resort is the first and so far only diving center in the country. To tell you the truth, you won't find fabulously beautiful reefs or fish locally. However, diving will be able to entertain you, which means you should not refuse this opportunity. If you get bored here, you can easily take a regular bus to Batumi and spend your time as you want. This small resort has not very developed infrastructure, and therefore there are few good hotels. Therefore, tourists often rent housing in the private sector: a bed for a day can be bought for seven dollars, and a room - from 35.
Ureki
If you are determined to spend your vacation under the hot sun and visit the sea in Georgia, then you should pay attention to this resort. It is famous for its beaches with black magnetic sand, which has no analogues in the whole world. Along the five-kilometer beach area there are many hotels, small bungalows, sanatoriums, as well as restaurants and cafes. Families with small children come here with pleasure, since the entrance to the water is almost everywhere flat, and the sea is not too deep. If you move 200 or even 300 meters from the shore, you will remain standing waist-deep in water. The resort's fresh and clean air is provided by a forest belt of eucalyptus and pine trees that runs along the entire coast.
Cape Verde
This wonderful resort is popular not only among tourists, but also among local residents. It is located near Batumi, just nine kilometers away. Not far from the village there is the world famous Botanical Garden, which vacationers enjoy visiting almost every day. Many rare plants grow here, which thousands of tourists come to admire every day. In Cape Verde you can stay either in a specialized hotel or in the private sector. Guests of the village claim that they are always greeted with open arms, and the warmth of the owners remains beyond praise.
Conclusion
A seaside holiday in Georgia always leaves tourists with a lot of impressions. Many people fall in love with this country so much that they come here year after year. And this is not surprising, since you want to admire the unique sea and mountain landscapes again and again, get acquainted with the culture of the local population, explore famous sights, architectural monuments and, of course, enjoy national cuisine.
The May holidays and summer vacation season are approaching in Russia. The Caucasian Knot has compiled some advice for Russians who are thinking about traveling to Georgia.
1. Do I need a visa to visit Georgia?
Russian citizens do not need a visa to enter Georgia for up to 360 days. All you need is a passport valid for the entire duration of your stay in the country.
Entry into Georgia through South Ossetia and Abkhazia is prohibited.
Moreover, Georgian authorities may refuse entry if you have notes in your passport that you have visited Abkhazia or South Ossetia before. Most likely, such problems will not arise, since Abkhaz and South Ossetian border guards usually do not put any marks on passports. But in any case, the fact that you visited Abkhazia or South Ossetia should not be advertised. According to Georgian law, this is considered a criminal offense, for which you can go to prison or receive a large fine.
If you want to visit Abkhazia or South Ossetia, detailed advice on organizing your trip can be found in the special information from the Caucasian Knot.
2. Is it better to go to Georgia in summer or winter?
In winter, it is best to spend time at the ski resorts, which in Georgia are usually open from November to May.
3. Is it worth going to Georgia by car?
In Georgia, the main tourist attractions are located compactly, and traveling around the country by car is quite convenient. In addition, if you decide to travel to Georgia from Russia by car, your path will lie along the picturesque Georgian Military Road.
The downside is that for crossing the border by land you will have only one option - the Verkhniy Lars checkpoint, which is located 38 km from Vladikavkaz, the capital of North Ossetia. There is a risk of standing in line at the border for many hours, especially during high season. You can find out what the current situation is at the checkpoint by looking at the picture from the web cameras.
The road is also sometimes closed due to bad weather and the danger of avalanches. When this happens, the Caucasian Knot always reports about it.
If you don’t want to spend time in queues at the border and risk getting stuck on the way due to bad weather, you can rent a car directly in Georgia. The technical condition of rental cars often leaves much to be desired. But there is an opportunity to find very cheap options for cars with high mileage, produced 10-15 years ago.
4. Where is the best place to stay?
Well-known international hotel chains operate in Georgia, but if you want to feel what real Georgian hospitality is, we recommend taking a closer look at small family hotels. The Caucasian Knot talked about them in a special article.
5. Is it necessary to bargain?
In Georgia, by haggling, you can almost always bring down the price in markets, in souvenir shops and especially in taxis. If the taxi does not have a meter (and it almost never does), be sure to agree on the price of the trip right away.
6. Where to buy souvenirs?
Souvenirs will be much cheaper if you buy them away from popular tourist areas. In Tbilisi, you can buy something cheaper at the flea market near the Dry Bridge. But it’s worth bargaining there too.
For those who want to learn more about holidays in Georgia, the “Caucasian Knot” has collected information on its pages about Georgian attractions: about colorful Batumi with its cozy coffee shops, about the ski resort of Gudauri, about the tiny town of Signaki in Kakheti and, of course, about the hospitable Tbilisi.
7. Where is the best place to eat?
Although there are McDonald’s and other well-known fast food chain restaurants in Georgia, the Caucasian Knot definitely does not recommend stuffing yourself with hamburgers. Better try the local cuisine. Khinkali, pkhali, khachapuri and other national dishes are what you came to Georgia for.
8. Where to buy churchkhela?
If you want to be sure of quality, it is better to buy the Georgian national delicacy in a supermarket, where it is sold in vacuum packaging. You can also buy churchkhela at the market, but then you should be more careful.
9. To smoke or not to smoke?
Georgia still remains a paradise for suicides who poison themselves and their neighbors with nicotine. They smoke everywhere. If your choice of travel destination is related to your bad habit, feel free to head to Georgia. True, then you should hurry. Georgia is rapidly integrating into Europe, and authorities are already discussing a new law to restrict smoking in public places. The next expected date for introducing the innovation was set for May 1, 2018.
10. How much wine can you bring from Georgia?
The export of wine from Georgia is not limited, but, according to Russian customs rules, each adult can bring no more than 5 liters of alcohol with them from a trip. Of these, 3 liters can be imported without paying any fees, and another 2 liters - by paying a fee of 10 euros per liter.
Although Georgia is a great place to travel, the country has had turbulent periods in the last 25 years due to wars and revolutions. When planning your trip, keep an eye on
