These essential tips will contribute to a safer and more enjoyable trip
Georgia is a country of dramatic landscapes, history, and incredible food, to name but a few elements. What's more, Georgian people are known to be very friendly and welcoming. Fun fact: Georgians actually call the country Sakartvelo. Why we call it Georgia is unknown.
Georgia lies in the Caucasus region, was the birthplace of the infamous dictator Joseph Stalin, and left the Soviet Union in 1991. There is still a battle over how much influence Russia should hold over Georgia, even though it is an independent nation.
The capital of Georgia is a sight to behold. There is a diverse architectural landscape and many cultural activities to fill your days.
Built in the 4th century, it is also known as "the Pillar of Life." The pillar is made of limestone and is 40 meters- (about 131 ft-) high! It remains a mystery how they managed to build the monastery so high.
If you like the Alps but do not want the extortionate prices, Bakhmaro is the place for you. Nestled 2,000 meters (about 6,560 ft) above sea level, this traditional town boasts Alpine wildlife and adorable wooden cottages where tourists can stay.
The seaside resort of Batumi is a Georgian version of Miami, but with traditional architecture. The main activities here are going to casinos, and sunbathing.
Georgians love stews. Chakapuli is usually eaten for Easter. It is made with veal or lamb, and flavored with sour plums, onions, white wine, mixed herbs, and garlic. Yum!
The city of Chiatura lies between two steep valleys and was founded in 1800 as a mining town.
Today, Chiatura is known as the "Cable Car City" because of its Soviet-era "rope roads." Most of the lines have been neglected, but it is still possible to take a ride in some of these rust machines.
Dolmas are popular all over Eastern Europe, but in Georgia they are particularly special. They use steamed grape leaves instead of vegetable leaves, and stuff them with rice, herbs and minced meat.
The landscape here is so overwhelmingly beautiful that words hardly do it justice. There is a little town where tourists can stay as a base while they trek and hike around the lakes and mountains.
This dish is usually eaten around December and contains chicken or turkey with a walnut sauce.
Here is the Gergeti Trinity Church. Kazbegi is a great area for any kind of walking activity. You can even climb up to the Gergeti Glacier.
It is surprising that this dish is not world famous. This carb comet is made by stuffing bread with cheese and breaking an egg on top. It could be better than pizza!
The Georgians also love beans! This flatbread is similar to Khachapuri, but is stuffed with bean paste instead.
Near the Caucasus Mountains is the town of Mestia. It is the center of the popular hiking area of Svaneti, and so it is a good base for a walking trip.
More beans! Lobio is a bean soup usually eaten with mchadi, a kind of cornbread. It is similar to refried beans, but more delicious!
It's one of the oldest cities in Georgia, and the Christian center of the country. You will find three of the most important churches in the country here.
This is a kind of kebab roasted in a metal bowl over a fire with salt. It is pretty special, and so is always meant to be shared.
These cute dumplings are a texture sensation. They are filled with minced meat, herbs, and broth, so be sure to slurp out the liquid quickly, otherwise you'll make a mess!
In the heart of the Tusheti area lies Omalo. This area is wonderful but also tricky to get to. You have to get on one of the most dangerous roads in the world to get there.
This remote village is a medieval fortress and remains relatively untouched by tourism.
Made from boiled milk and a bacteria starter, this sour yogurt can be eaten sweet or savory.
This little town lies in the heart of the wine district in Kakheti. Georgia is famous for its wine, and there is nowhere better as a base for wine tours than Signagi.
This delicious national cheese has a stringy outer layer and is soft within, perfect with some Georgian flatbreads.
Made by the Abasha river, these canyons make you feel like you're in a fairy-tale. You can hire a boat and paddle through.
Kutaisi is a city, smaller than Tbilisi, but still jam-packed with interesting churches and architecture. It can be a good place to stop between destinations.
Translated, Uplistsikhe is the "Lord's Fortress." It's a village of caves where people have lived for thousands of years up until the 14th century.
It is one of the most rural villages in the Svaneti region, and perhaps the most beautiful. Tourists can ride horses through the area to see the sights.
From afar, this mountain may look like a normal mountain, but it is actually the remnants of a monastery.
It used to be completely concealed, but an earthquake destroyed it and revealed the rooms within.
Sources: (Journal of Nomads) (Travel Lemming) (Uncornered Market)
Georgia in Eastern Europe is a country of diverse landscapes, rich culture, and delicious food. And not only is it the perfect destination for hikers, but it is also a lot more affordable and unique when compared to your typical European tourist hotspots.
From Alpine villages to Miami-style beach resorts, Georgia has it all. If you want to learn more about this country full of fairy-tale scenery, take a look through the following gallery.
Getting down in Georgia
A guide to a deceptively underrated country
TRAVEL Eastern europe
Georgia in Eastern Europe is a country of diverse landscapes, rich culture, and delicious food. And not only is it the perfect destination for hikers, but it is also a lot more affordable and unique when compared to your typical European tourist hotspots.
From Alpine villages to Miami-style beach resorts, Georgia has it all. If you want to learn more about this country full of fairy-tale scenery, take a look through the following gallery.