Georgia.pdf

Georgia's tourism is often promoted with the tagline "Discover Georgia: Rich Heritage, Captivating Landscapes, Unforgettable Hospitality" is used to promote Georgia as a tourist destination, specifically referring to the country located at the intersection of Europe and Asia. It emphasizes the count...

Georgia's tourism is often promoted with the tagline "Discover Georgia: Rich Heritage, Captivating Landscapes, Unforgettable Hospitality" is used to promote Georgia as a tourist destination, specifically referring to the country located at the intersection of Europe and Asia. It emphasizes the country's hospitality, diverse attractions, and rich culture. Georgia offers a range of experiences suitable for adventure seekers, culture enthusiasts, families, and those looking for relaxation. Basic Information:  Currency: Georgian Lari (GEL)  Capital: Tbilisi  Official Languages: Georgian  Population: Approximately 3.7 million (as of 2023)  Best Time to Travel: May to June and September to October for mild weather and beautiful landscapes.  Time Zone: Georgia Standard Time (GET; UTC+4)  Bordered By: o Russia (north) o Azerbaijan (southeast) o Armenia (south) o Turkey (southwest)  Main Airports: o Tbilisi International Airport (TBS) o Batumi International Airport (BUS) o Kutaisi International Airport (KUT) Famous For  Wine Production:  Kakheti Region: Known as the cradle of winemaking, Kakheti is Georgia's primary wine-producing region. It boasts a rich history dating back thousands of years, with traditional winemaking methods still widely practiced, including the use of large clay vessels called qvevri buried underground for fermentation and aging. Ancient Techniques: Georgian winemaking is unique for its use of indigenous grape varieties like Saperavi and Rkatsiteli, and traditional fermentation techniques that have been recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage.  Diverse Landscapes: Black Sea Coast: Georgia's western coastline along the Black Sea offers stunning beaches, seaside resorts like Batumi, and the historic town of Svaneti. Greater Caucasus Mountains: The northern part of Georgia is dominated by the majestic Greater Caucasus range, offering opportunities for hiking, mountaineering, and exploring traditional mountain villages like Kazbegi.  Cultural Heritage: Mtskheta: One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, known for its iconic Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and Jvari Monastery, both UNESCO-listed sites. Upper Svaneti: A remote mountainous region renowned for its well-preserved medieval tower-houses and churches, providing a glimpse into ancient Georgian culture and architecture.  Traditional Cuisine: Khinkali: Large dumplings typically filled with spiced meat (usually beef or pork) or mushrooms, enjoyed as a traditional Georgian staple. Khachapuri: A savory pastry filled with cheese (such as sulguni or Imeretian cheese), sometimes topped with a runny egg and butter, representing the rich culinary heritage of Georgia. Walnut Sauces and Preserves: Georgian cuisine often incorporates walnut-based sauces like bazhe and pkhali, made from ground walnuts, garlic, and herbs, used as condiments or as bases for various dishes.  Hospitality: Georgian Supra: The traditional feast, known for its abundance of food, wine, and heartfelt toasts (known as "tamada") where guests express their feelings, wishes, and memories. Warm Welcoming Culture: Georgians are known for their hospitality towards guests, embodying the concept of "mokheve," which translates to both "guest" and "friend" in Georgian culture, emphasizing the warm and inclusive nature of Georgian hospitality. Transportation in Georgia  Public Transport: o Buses and marshrutkas (minibuses) are commonly used for local travel. o Metro systems are available in Tbilisi.  Rail Services: Georgian Railway offers connections between major cities.  Roads: Generally well-maintained, but rural areas may have unpaved roads. Travel Tips  Language: Georgian is the official language; English is less common in rural areas.  Cash: Many places may prefer cash, so it's advisable to carry some local currency.  Safety: Georgia is generally safe for tourists, but remain aware of your surroundings. Regions and States 1. Tbilisi 2. Adjara 3. Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti 4. Kakheti 5. Mtskheta-Mtianeti 6. Shida Kartli 7. Kvemo Kartli 8. Imereti 9. Guria 10. Racha-Lechkhumi and Kvemo Svaneti 11. Samtskhe-Javakheti Regions which is good for Tourism  1. Tbilisi: Known for its historic sites such as Narikala Fortress and the ancient sulfur baths, Tbilisi blends a rich history with a vibrant contemporary culture. Explore its diverse neighborhoods and enjoy its lively arts scene and delicious Georgian cuisine. 2. Adjara: This region is famous for its beautiful beaches along the Black Sea coast and the bustling city of Batumi. Visitors can relax on the shores, stroll along Batumi Boulevard, and admire the modern architecture juxtaposed with the old town's charm. 3. Kakheti: As Georgia's premier wine region, Kakheti offers picturesque vineyards where visitors can taste traditional Georgian wines like Saperavi and Rkatsiteli. It's also home to historic monasteries, charming villages, and the stunning Alazani Valley. 4. Svaneti: Located in the Caucasus Mountains, Svaneti is renowned for its unique defensive towers built centuries ago. The region's dramatic landscapes include towering peaks, deep gorges, and lush alpine meadows, making it a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. 5. Kazbegi: Also known as Stepantsminda, Kazbegi captivates visitors with its breathtaking mountain views, particularly of Mount Kazbek. The Gergeti Trinity Church, perched on a hilltop overlooking the village, offers one of Georgia's most iconic vistas. 6. Imereti: Imereti is another region in Georgia that is excellent for tourism, offering a blend of historical sites, natural beauty, and cultural experiences. Here's an overview of what makes Imereti a great destination. 7. Samtskhe-Javakheti: nestled in southern Georgia, beckons with a rich tapestry of historical fortresses, picturesque landscapes including Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park, and a blend of Georgian and Armenian cultural heritage. Each of these regions offers a unique glimpse into Georgia's diverse landscape, culture, and history, making it a compelling destination for travellers. Tbilisi  Main City: Tbilisi  Airport: Tbilisi International Airport (TBS) - Distance: 17 km  Suggested Days: 3-4 days Tourist Activities: 1. Narikala Fortress (2-3 hours): Explore the historic fortress and enjoy panoramic views. 2. Sulfur Baths (1-2 hours): Relax in traditional baths in the Abanotubani district. 3. Old Town (2-3 hours): Stroll through historic streets, visit the Bridge of Peace 4. Holy Trinity Cathedral (1 hour): Visit one of the largest Orthodox cathedrals in the world. Hotels:  3-star: Hotel Tbilisi Central  4-star: Holiday Inn Tbilisi   5-star: Radisson Blu Iveria Hotel Shopping Areas:  Rustaveli Avenue, Tbilisi Mall Nightlife Areas:  Shardeni Street, Fabrika, Bassiani Adjara  Main City: Batumi  Airport: Batumi International Airport (BUS) - Distance: 5 km  Suggested Days: 2-3 days Tourist Activities: 1. Batumi Beach (2-4 hours): Relax on the Black Sea coast. 2. Batumi Botanical Garden (2-3 hours): Explore diverse plant species with stunning sea views. 3. Ali and Nino Statue (1 hour): Visit this iconic monument at sunset. Hotels:  3-star: Hotel Batumi  4-star: Sheraton Batumi Hotel  5-star: Radisson Blu Hotel Batumi Shopping Areas:  Batumi Mall, Metro City Nightlife Areas:  Batumi Boulevard, clubs like Ibiza Kakheti  Main City: Telavi, Sighnaghi  Airport: Tbilisi International Airport (TBS) - Distance: 80 km to Telavi  Suggested Days: 2-3 days Tourist Activities: 1. Wine Tasting in Sighnaghi (3-4 hours): Visit local wineries and enjoy wine tastings. 2. Bodbe Monastery (1-2 hours): Historic site with beautiful views. 3. Tsinandali Estate (2-3 hours): Explore the estate and gardens of the Chavchavadze family. Hotels:  3-star: Hotel Kvareli  4-star: Chateau Mere  5-star: Lopota Lake Resort Shopping Areas:  Local markets in Telavi and Sighnaghi Nightlife Areas:  Low-key bars and wine cellars in Sighnaghi Kazbegi  Main City: Stepantsminda  Airport: Tbilisi International Airport (TBS) - Distance: 150 km  Suggested Days: 2-3 days Tourist Activities: 1. Gergeti Trinity Church (2-3 hours): Hike or drive to this iconic church. 2. Kazbegi National Park (Half-day): Hiking trails with breathtaking views. 3. Gveleti Waterfalls (1-2 hours): A short hike to beautiful waterfalls. 4. Gudauri Ski Resort (in winter): Located nearby, Gudauri offers skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports activities. 5. Truso Valley: A scenic valley known for its mineral springs, traditional villages, and hiking trails. 6. Mount Kazbek Base Camp: For more adventurous travelers, hiking to the base camp of Mount Kazbek is a challenging yet rewarding experience. Hotels:  3-star: Hotel Stepantsminda  4-star: Rooms Hotel Kazbegi  5-star: Kazbegi Hotel Shopping Areas:  Local crafts in Stepantsminda Nightlife Areas:  Limited options; enjoy local taverns Svaneti  Main City: Mestia, Ushguli  Airport: Queen Tamar Airport (Mestia) - Distance: 1 km  Suggested Days: 3-4 days Tourist Activities: 1. Ushguli Village (Half-day): Visit one of the highest inhabited villages in Europe. 2. Mestia Museum (1-2 hours): Explore local history and culture. 3. Hiking to Koruldi Lakes (Full day): A rewarding trek with stunning views. Hotels:  3-star: Hotel Svaneti  4-star: Mestia Hotel  5-star: Ushguli Hotel Shopping Areas:  Local crafts and handmade goods in Mestia Nightlife Areas:  Traditional music and dance in local guesthouses  Quiet cafes and traditional restaurants Imereti  Main City: Kutaisi  Airport: Kutaisi International Airport (KUT) - Distance: 20 km  Suggested Days: 2-3 days Tourist Activities: 1. Gelati Monastery (1-2 hours) 2. Prometheus Cave (2-3 hours) 3. Kutaisi Historical Museum (1-2 hours) Hotels:  3-star: Hotel Kutaisi  4-star: Best Western Kutaisi  5-star: Bagrati 1003 Hotel Shopping Areas:  Local markets in Kutaisi Nightlife Areas:   Bars and restaurants in the city center Samtskhe-Javakheti  Main City: Borjomi  Suggested Days: 1-2 days  Airport: Tbilisi International Airport (TBS) - Distance: 160 km Tourist Activities: 1. Borjomi Central Park (2-3 hours) o Enjoy the beautiful park and mineral springs. 2. Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park (Full day) o Hiking trails with stunning nature and diverse wildlife. 3. Romanov Palace (1-2 hours) o Explore the historical residence of the Romanov family. Hotels:  3-star: Hotel Borjomi  4-star: Crowne Plaza Borjomi  5-star: Borjomi Resort and Spa Hotel Shopping Areas:  Local shops and markets in the town center. Nightlife Areas:  Low-key bars and cafes, mainly focused on relaxation. Some sample itineraries for Georgia: 1. Tbilisi and Surroundings (4-5 days): Day 1: Arrive in Tbilisi, explore Old Tbilisi including Narikala Fortress, Sulphur Baths, and Rustaveli Avenue. Day 2: Visit Mtskheta (Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, Jvari Monastery) and Uplistsikhe (ancient cave town). Day 3: Day trip to Kakheti wine region (visit wineries in Sighnaghi, Bodbe Monastery). Day 4: Explore more of Tbilisi (National Museum, Mtatsminda Park). Day 5: Optionally, visit Gori (Stalin Museum) or relax in Tbilisi before departure. 2. Western Georgia and Black Sea Coast (5-6 days): Day 1: Arrive in Tbilisi, transfer to Kutaisi. Day 2: Explore Kutaisi (Bagrati Cathedral, Gelati Monastery). Day 3: Visit Prometheus Cave and Martvili Canyon. Day 4: Transfer to Batumi (Black Sea coast), explore Batumi Boulevard, Alphabet Tower. Day 5: Relax on Batumi beaches or take a day trip to Adjara mountains (Mtirala National Park). Day 6: Return to Tbilisi or continue exploring Batumi before departure. 3. Mountains and Adventure in Northern Georgia (4-5 days): Day 1: Arrive in Tbilisi, travel to Stepantsminda (Kazbegi). Day 2: Hike to Gergeti Trinity Church, visit Sno village. Day 3: Explore Truso Valley or hike in Juta. Day 4: Transfer to Gudauri, enjoy outdoor activities (skiing in winter, hiking in summer). Day 5: Return to Tbilisi or continue exploring Gudauri before departure. 4. Cultural and Historical highlights (7 days): Day 1-2: Tbilisi (Old Tbilisi, museums). Day 3: Mtskheta and Uplistsikhe. Day 4: Kakheti wine region (Sighnaghi, Telavi). Day 5-6: Kutaisi (Prometheus Cave, Gelati Monastery). Day 7: Batumi (Batumi Boulevard, Gonio Fortress). These itineraries offer a mix of cultural immersion, historical exploration, natural beauty, and adventure, catering to different interests and timeframes for exploring Georgia. Adjust the duration and activities based on your preferences and available time.