Practical Information

• Time Zone: Georgia Standard Time (GET), UTC +4 hours.

• Currency: Georgian Lari (GEL).

  • 1 USD ≈ 2.80 GEL

  • 1 EUR ≈ 3.20 GEL

• Language: Georgian is the official language. English is widely spoken in major tourist areas.

• Climate: Georgia has a diverse climate, with subtropical weather on the Black Sea coast and alpine conditions in the mountains.

• Transportation: Public transport includes buses, minibuses (marshrutkas), and taxis. Car rentals and guided tours are available for exploring the countryside.

• Safety and Health: Generally safe for tourists, with healthcare facilities available in major cities. Travel insurance is recommended.

Visa Procedures

Visa Requirements:

• Citizens of many countries can enter Georgia visa-free for short stays.

• For others, a visa may be required, which can be obtained online.

E-Visa Website: www.evisa.gov.ge

E-Visa Application Process:

1. Eligibility Check: Verify if your country is eligible for an e-Visa on the official Georgia e-Visa portal.

2. Application Form: Fill out the online application form with personal and travel details.

3. Payment: Pay the visa fee online using a credit or debit card.

4. Processing Time: E-Visas are typically processed within 5 business days.

5. Approval and Download: Once approved, download and print your e-Visa to present upon arrival in Georgia.

Visa Validity and Duration:

• E-Visas are generally valid for 30 days from the date of entry.

• Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date from Georgia.

Major Highlights and Cities

1. Tbilisi

   • Narikala Fortress: An ancient fort overlooking the city, offering panoramic views.

   • Old Tbilisi: A historic district with narrow streets, traditional houses, and sulfur baths.

   • Tbilisi Opera and Ballet Theatre: A stunning building hosting world-class performances.

2. Mtskheta

   • Svetitskhoveli Cathedral: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of the most important churches in Georgia.

   • Jvari Monastery: A 6th-century monastery with breathtaking views of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers.

3. Batumi

   • Batumi Boulevard: A seaside promenade with parks, sculptures, and cafes.

   • Alphabetic Tower: A 130-meter-high structure celebrating the unique Georgian script.

4. Kutaisi

   • Bagrati Cathedral: A historic cathedral and a symbol of the city.

   • Prometheus Cave: A large cave system with impressive stalactites and stalagmites.

5. Svaneti

   • Mestia: A mountain town known for its medieval stone towers and stunning landscapes.

   • Ushguli: One of the highest inhabited villages in Europe, offering breathtaking views of Mount Shkhara.

6. Kazbegi (Stepantsminda)

   • Gergeti Trinity Church: A stunning church located at 2170 meters, with incredible views of Mount Kazbek.

   • Mount Kazbek: A popular destination for climbers and hikers.

7. Telavi

   • Alaverdi Monastery: An ancient monastery in the heart of the Kakheti wine region.

   • Tsinandali Estate: A historic winery with beautiful gardens and a museum.

Festivals and Holidays

1. New Year’s Day (January 1-2): Celebrations with family gatherings, fireworks, and feasts.

2. Orthodox Christmas (January 7): A significant religious holiday marked by church services and festive meals.

3. Orthodox Easter (Variable): Celebrated with special church services, traditional foods, and family gatherings.

4. Independence Day (May 26): National holiday with parades, concerts, and public events.

5. Tbilisoba (October): A festival celebrating Tbilisi with music, dance, food, and wine.

6. Rtveli (September): The grape harvest festival celebrated in the Kakheti region with traditional music, dance, and wine tasting.

7. Batumi International Art-House Film Festival (BIAFF) (September): A festival showcasing international and local films.

Georgian Cuisine

Georgian cuisine is famous for its rich flavors, diverse ingredients, and unique dishes. Key dishes include:

• Khachapuri: A cheese-filled bread, with variations like Adjarian khachapuri topped with an egg.

• Khinkali: Georgian dumplings filled with meat, spices, and sometimes vegetables.

• Pkhali: A mixture of vegetables (like spinach or beetroot) with ground walnuts and spices.

• Mtsvadi: Georgian-style grilled meat, often served with traditional sauces.

• Lobio: A hearty bean stew, often flavored with coriander and other spices.

• Badrijani: Eggplant rolls filled with walnut paste and garnished with pomegranate seeds.

• Chakapuli: A stew made with lamb, tarragon, and white wine.

• Churchkhela: A traditional sweet made from nuts and grape must, shaped like a candle.

• Georgian Wines: Georgia is one of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world, famous for its unique grape varieties and traditional winemaking methods.

Shopping and Bazaars

Georgia offers a variety of shopping experiences, from modern malls to traditional bazaars. Key places include:

• Dry Bridge Market (Tbilisi): A flea market offering antiques, crafts, and souvenirs.

• East Point Shopping Mall (Tbilisi): A modern mall with international brands and entertainment options.

• Tbilisi Mall: Another popular shopping destination with a variety of shops and restaurants.

• Bazaar of Batumi: A bustling market with fresh produce, spices, and local goods.

• Handicrafts and Souvenirs: Georgia is known for its handmade crafts, including carpets, ceramics, and jewelry.

Useful Vocabulary

• Hello: Gamarjoba

• Thank you: Madloba

• Please: Gtchovt

• Yes: Ki

• No: Ara

• How much?: Ra ghirs?

• Where is...?: Sad aris?

• Help!: Dakhmareba!