Another Caucasus mountain country, but with friendly people…unique language and alphabet, incredible food (no exaggeration), incredible wines, and lots of interesting foreigners from countries I don’t know well.
Generally, Georgia is known for their mountains, food, wine, beautiful girls, and homes that looks incredibly old (and abandoned) from the outside but beautiful and super modern inside. As a foreigner, you’ll probably know just Tbilisi…which is a cool hip city with lots of charm, and things to do. As with mountain countries, all locals will insist that you visit a mountain place.
7-10 days would be enough to see Tbilisi (with a day trip outside), and at least one mountain town.
General tips for traveling in Georgia:
- dfd
- Transportation
- Rideshare – Yandex, Bolt.
- Weather
Miscellaneous tips:
- sdfd
Safety tips:
- Bad drivers – people really drive crazy…absolutely the worst drivers I’ve ever seen in my life. I don’t know why but all Caucasus countries seem to be like this. They drive super fast, and weave, and don’t wear seatbelts. You may even offend your driver but putting on your seatbelt. Road rage is hilarious and common here. Just be careful when you stand near the road. I saw a crazy driver hit a man standing by the road.
- Crime – I really haven’t saw or experienced any street crime. Everywhere I’ve been felt very safe.
Foods to try:
- Khinkali
- yellow wine – aka “amber wine” or “orange wine”.
There are sooo many good foods. Will list more in a bit.
Customs & Language:
Georgian cities (* = recommended, ** = must see):
- Tbilisi** – yes, definitely. Amazing! One of my favorite places in the world. Already becoming wildly popular with foreigners and expats moving in. Low cost of living, but rich in culture, food, things to do, many people from different places to meet. Just a wildly fun city.
- Mtskheta* – Jvari Monastery has a super nice view of the water and city below. You can hike to it or drive right to it. Worth a visit and easy ride from Tbilisi.
- Gori – has just Gori Fortress, kind simple boring fortress with a city view at the top. (It’s free to visit.) Totally skippable and not necessary. Stop by if you’re already driving through and want a tiny break.
- Kazbegi (Stepantsminda)** – crazy beautiful mountain view…like best ever in my lifetime. Don’t stay in town center, stay in the mountain area east of the Terek River (the farther east, the higher you’ll be and with a better view). And please don’t do this as a day trip. It really is so beautiful and worth spending the night here. The views from your accommodation are amazing! The tour bus ride there from Tbilisi will probably have some great stopping points for you such as Zhinvali Reservoir, Ananuri Monastery, and the Russia-Georgia Friendshop Monument.
- Kutaisi –
- Batumi – from what I heard, Batumi is overrated. Also close friends of mine went and hated it. Said the “ugly parts” look decaying and earthquake-vulnerable while “pretty parts” look superficial, lacking culture and tourist attractions, way too many skyrises and accommodation for Russians (which many people don’t like). The ones who do like it, feel it’s great for socializing.
Nearby countries:
- Russia
- Turkey
- Armenia
- Azerbaijan
- Kazakhstan
Unfiltered notes: