Amaury Dreher

Georgia TRip REPORT

Population : 4 millions

Capital : Tbilissi

Main languages : Georgian (official), Russian, Azerbaijani

Visa : Easy

My favorite place : Khazbegi

I travelled twice in Georgia. Tbilisi, the capital city is quite a vibrant place with a cute historical district and many tasty/cosy restaurants or cafés. Moreover, the Georgian urbanists manage to harmoniously blend both historical and modern architecture which made the exploring of the city very pleasant. Finally, the nightlife was quite intense and provides good opportunities for whoever wants to get some fun. The bars and clubs are numerous with extremely reasonable prices. I had the chance to go to Bassiani which is the new Techno Mecca in Europe and owns a unique atmosphere: the club is located under the city's soccer stadium in an old swimming pool and concentrates the open-minded Georgian youth but not only.

A bit like in Ukraine, it is striking to see the numerous NATO or European Union flags flying here and there whereas none of these countries have joined the organisations yet. Georgia being located at the crossroad of Asia and Europe, it represents a strategic actor when it comes to International Relations and the stability in the Caucasus region. The different cultural influences that the country has known make the capital quite cosmopolitan. Trendy coffee shops rub shoulders with churches, shopping malls, historic districts, modern and Soviet-style buildings.

Tbilissi’s old town features some interesting places : The thermal baths and sulphur baths have an international reputation for both their physical and psychological effects. It is the discovery of these sources of sulphuric water which are at the origin of the creation of Tbilissi. The architecture is magnificent and seems to be inspired by the Persian culture. At nightfall, the baths are illuminated by lanterns creating a very magical atmosphere at the heart of the old town.

However, I recommend to not stick to cities too much, it worths renting a car and go beyond the horizon in order to explore the mountains and wonderful surrounding nature. There are also many monasteries or caves to discover here and there. Georgians are very proud of their gastronomy and it is worthwhile to try the local restaurants and vineyards.

The country is very safe if you except the Georgian driving style. Also, I suggest avoiding political discussions (notably related to Russia…). However, Russian language could help you in your daily interactions as English is not spoken by the people over 30-35 years old.

For getting cheap flights it is often a good idea to fly WizzAir to Kutaissi and start your Georgian journey from there. Some people like Batumi on the coastline but I am not attracted by such artificial city/atmosphere.

The following shots are featuring Ananuri, Tbilisi, Kazbegi and the Zhinvali Reservoir :