In the Caucasus region of Eurasia lies a small country of about four million people. This country is Georgia, but don’t confuse it with the state of Georgia in the United States!
The country is rich in history, dating back to ancient times. It was the kingdom of Iberia and Colchis.
The country was under Russian rule from the late 1700s until 1991. Georgia regained independence in April of 1991.
Are you searching for your next great vacation? Here are five amazing reasons why you should visit Georgia.
1. Budget-Friendly Tbilisi
Tbilisi is the capital of Georgia. It’s home to about 1.5 million people. This hip city is built around an old sewing factory, Fabrika.
Here you’ll find great restaurants, artists studios, cafes, and bars. You’ll traverse wide thoroughfares and boulevards. And you’ll enjoy tiny cobblestone streets that are off the beaten path.
Visit Old Town for a glimpse into the past where beautifully restored buildings beckon. Sit in one of the famous sulfur baths.
Tbilisi is affordable when comparing to the rest of Western Europe.
2. The Culture and People
While you’re enjoying the history, you’ll notice how friendly the people are. Don’t let it surprise you if the locals invite you over.
This small country preserves its unique culture. Their language, the Georgian script, has its own writing system and is still used today.
Enjoy watching folk dancing and polyphonic singing. There are many fun things to do!
3. The Food
One of the best parts of traveling is discovering food in other parts of the world. Georgia is no exception.
Are you tired of cardboard-tasting American tomatoes? Try a tomato in Georgia. Enjoy hearty meat soups and stews.
The food here is the definition of comfort food. There are dumplings and cheeses. Don’t forget to try pkhali, a tasty eggplant dish with walnut and garlic.
And while you’re eating, pair your food with a delicious local wine. Speaking of wine…
4. The Wine
Another tempting and sumptuous reason to visit Georgia is the wine.
Most people think of France when they think of winemaking. But the Georgians have made wine for 8,000 years! And they still use traditional winemaking methods.
Much of the local wine comes in Coca-Cola bottles.
Don’t forget to try the chacha. It’s a spirit made from the residual pulp from the fermentation process. Be careful, though! It’s as high as 65% proof!
5. The Religious Monuments
Over 80% of the country’s people are Orthodox Christian. Thus there are beautiful historical churches all over the country. Some of them date back to the sixth century.
Check out the Katskhi pillar built by stylite monks in the 9th century. At the top of the 130-foot pillar are a church and crypt. You can’t go to the top but it’s still worth a visit.
It’s Time to Visit Georgia!
It’s a great time to visit Georgia. Tourism to Georgia is increasing. So go now before it’s too busy!
Be sure and make Tbilisi a stop on your visit. Immerse yourself in the local culture and people.
Taste as much local food and wine as you can. Visit the many amazing religious and other historical monuments and buildings.
Enjoy your visit! And if you need more great travel advice, keep browsing our blog.
