Ajara Life Magazine, Issue 005 by Ajara Life Magazine

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Stay Amazing! We are passionate about hospitality. Every day we host travelers from all around the world and we know everybody wants an awesome holiday experience. This is why we offer the very best, hand selected vacation properties in Batumi. The apartment you’ll be staying at is special, because it’s a labor of love and attention of a dedicated group of people we call the Ruebush Hospitality Group. Our team has designed, planned, and developed this property with your maximum comfort in mind. –Whether you’re traveling for business, or on a long-awaited holiday, we’ll be happy to make your trip a hassle-free, and enjoyable experience. The exclusive collection of apartments in our portfolio shares the same common denominator – excellence. We aim to deliver excellence in every aspect: from beautifully designed spaces, to the quality of your sleep, and the impeccable daily service. We’re incredibly grateful that you’ve taken notice! Over the past 6 years we have hosted thousands of guests. We have thousands of reviews averaging 5 stars. We often get requests for direct bookings, so now we’ve finally created a space for you to book with us directly without incurring any additional channel fees.

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”

Let’s Discover Ajara! Ajara Life Magazine

Founder & CEO

David Ruebush Austin, Texas USA

Head of Magazine & Design Department Mehdi Maasoomi Head of Sales Department Aphina Martley Head of Marketing Department Ninna Sharadze Head of Logistic Department Kate Gubaeva Accounting Department Ia Surmanidze Omar Nakashidze Sales Agents Polina Kvitaishvili (Batumi) Nino Abramishvili (Tbilisi)

Ajara Life, the English language online and print publication headquartered in Batumi, launched in 2021 under Ruebush Hospitality Group LTD. With over 30 years experience in hospitality and over 15 years of experience in the media industry and our staffs’ commitment, knowledge and energy we feel confident that we will become the most recognised and respected infotainment and Tourist Guide in Ajara & Georgia. Our genuine point of difference is our primary focus on tourist attractions of different cities in Ajara, Georgia, Cultures, Traditions, Foods and Historical Places, Investment opportunities and Real Estate, Businesses and their activities, Product and Service Offers as well as Public Awareness on New Rules and Regulations, Events and Campaigns so that both business owners, readers and listeners – either Georgian residents or Tourists – win benefit. Besides, We gather information on the City’s Best Shops, Restaurants, Bars and Hotels, provide the most useful tourist and travel tips, highlight the best in Museum, Theatre and the events in town. Having the advantage of reaching a wide number of people globally through our online Magazine and Supplement, We intend to better introduce and promote Ajara & Georgia, provide awareness on its tourism potential and information on investment opportunities in various sectors for investors. Ajara Life Magazine is ideal for introducing new products and services, building established brands, presenting seasonal promotions and getting the return on investment that you expect.

David Ruebush

SPECIAL THANKS TO: > GEORGIAN NATIONAL TOURISM ADMINISTRATION > MINISTRY OF FINANCE AND ECONOMY OF AJARA A.R. > DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM AND RESORTS OF AJARA A. R. > AJARA MUSEUMS > BATUMI BOULEVAD 1881 > INVESTINBATUMI.GE > GOBATUMI.COM > AGENDA.GE

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Let’s Discover Ajara!

Content

Ajarian wine

Let’s Discover Ajara! Routes

TOP 10 BASIC GEORGIAN TOASTS YOU MUST KNOW

Rafting in Georgia

kayaking in Georgia

Khariton Akhvlediani Museum

Promoting tourism at Georgia’s unique Enguri dam

Hospitality & Real Estate Investment Opportunities in Georgia

Welcome to GORI

Kharsho (Chicken and Walnut Soup)

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Ajarian wine The history of Georgian people, its culture and a lifestyle is expressed in Georgian wine and is considered as the secret of hospitality, friendship, respect and longevity.

its unique types of wine such as ‘Qeda Tsolikauri’, and ‘Chkhaveri’. These wine sorts are made so that you could drink special toasts with them.

Adjara is interesting for wine tourism opportunities. This hospitable part of Georgia is visited by many for wine tasting. Wine-making and viticulture have the 8000-year history in Georgia. UNESCO declared Georgian tradition of wine distillation in Qvevri (a special clay vessel) as a monument of intangible cultural heritage.

Keda municipality is considered to be a hotbed of Ajarian wine-making. The most famous local wines in Ajara are Tsolikauri and Chkhaveri. Pink dry wine Chkhaveri is distinguished with its tenderness and exceptional taste, while dry white table wine Tsolikauri is made from the Tsolikauri grape variety. There are numerous rural wine cellars in Keda producing delicious wines with a distinct delicacy and aroma. Ajarian wine route offers the possibility to travel through a beautiful landscape of mountainous Keda region sampling locally produced wines.

Adjara takes the worthy place in establishment of ancient traditions of winemaking. In this small area (2.9 thousand. The sq.km) created and approved more than 40 varieties of grapes. Adjara has one of the longest lasting traditions of winemaking in western Georgia. the upper bound of a vineyard extends at the height of 1.200 m above sea level. The craft is particularly well developed in Qeda municipality which boasts

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The route starts from Ajarian Wine House, which is located in Khelvachauri municipality, village Adjaristskali, by the side of Khelvachauri-Keda main road. Here the visitors can browse through the vineyard, get acknowledged to whole process, in halls arranged in the eastern style and designed with traditional Georgian elements, taste local wines, on the middle floor one can taste Georgian and international cuisine.

Winemaking in Georgia dates all the way back to 8000 BC. The traditional Georgian winemaking technique, which uses a traditional clay vessel called a “kvevri”, is a part of the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists. In western Georgia, Ajara has one of the longest lasting traditions of winemaking; Keda Municipality boasts the most well-developed wine culture. “Kedis Tsolikauri” and “Chkhaveri” are two wines produced in Georgia that are unique to Ajara.

From the Ajarian Wine House the route continues along the Batumi-Akhaltsikhe main road in 10 km approximately, we come to the village Makhuntseti where you can see the Makhuntseti arched bridge and waterfall. On the road and near the waterfall visitors can taste and buy local, high quality honey. In the surroundings of the waterfall there is restaurant, where the visitors can taste bioproducts and meet with the Ajarian cuisine. Our route from the Makhuntseti continues along the Batumi-Akhaltsikhe main road in the village Pirveli Maisi (same as Saghoreti), is located Shervashidzeebi’s family cellar, here is possible to taste wines of the following varieties: Ojaleshi, Chkhaveri and Tsolikauri, made in oak

barrels. The host has his own farm and can offer guests bioproducts and accommodation. From the Shervashidzeebi’s family cellar the route ends in the village Vaio, where guests can visit 2 family cellars. “Makho’s cellar” and Lado Shavishvili’s family cellar; In these places one can taste locally produced wines: Chkaveri, Tsolikauri and Aladasturi and taste local meals. On this route visitors will have the rare opportunity to taste the outstanding wines made from local grape varieties, dishes and learn about the rural life of locals.

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LET’S DISCOVER AJARA! ROUTES If have already packed your backpack and are ready to explore the mountains of Ajara, we will help you choose and plan the right route. Our region has a lot of interesting destinations one can marvel over : adventure routes, including in the alpine zone, as well as cultural, historical, culinary or wine routes. All these are accompanied by incredibly picturesque landscapes making your camera working hard throughout your whole journey.

MILISI VILLAGE - MILISI MOUNTAIN - MACHAKHELA NATIONAL PARK - ACHARISAGMARTI VILLAGE Route type: linear Route type: walking, car, cycling Difficulty level: easy Total: 14.2 km Maximum height above sea level: 938 m Duration: 5-6 hours Cellular coverage area: full Recommended route: April - October. The route starts from the village of Milisi and follows a dirt road. It can be completed either by car, preferably 4WD, or on foot. After you reach the border of Machakhela National Park, then you can walk or drive by car through Uchkhiti to Machakhela Gorge. The distance from the village of Milisi to Mount Milisi is 4 kilometers. This distance is best covered with an all-wheel drive vehicle. Further, you need to walk a 5-kilometer path from Mount Milisi to Mount Archangel (Machakhela National Park). Here the route crosses the walking trail of Machakhela National Park and continues southeast of the crossing point along a dirt road. After 1 kilometer, a concrete road begins, and after another 4 kilometers the road leads to the Visitors’ Center of Machakhela National Park.

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The route continues from the Visitors’ Center of Machakhela National Park. To the north, there is a concrete road to the village of Acharisagmarti. After 4 kilometers, the trail turns into unpaved road again. This is where you need an SUV. After 1 km you will come to a road junction. To the west of it, the mountain trail of the Archangel continues. After 2 kilometers, you will meet another crossroads, from where the road leads to the village of Uchkhiti in the northern direction. But our route goes east to the village of Milisi, 4 km from the specified intersection of roads.

AKHO - DIDVAKE - KHINOTSMINDA - LAKE TBIKELI - MOUNT KABANI - JVARIMINDORI The total length of the route is 45 km The length of the car road section is 11 km The length of the pedestrian section is 34 km Difficulty of the route: medium Route type: pedestrian, car (4x4) Duration of the route: three days, two nights Maximum height above sea level: 2518 m Cellular coverage area: partial Season: May-September It is better to go with an experienced guide. The walk along the wilderness trail will take 2-3 days and requires good physical fitness, use of GPS, orientation in the terrain, as well as the ability to read maps of the area. For spending the night, you will need a tent, which you need to take with you along with other necessary things. We start the route from the village of Akho, which is located 50 km from Batumi, in the municipality of Keda. In the village of Akho, you can visit a monument of national importance - the Akhos Jame (mosque), built on the ruins of a Christian church.

The distance from the village of Akho to the beginning of the walking route is 11 km. This section of the route can be driven by an off-road vehicle. After passing 6.6 km to the north, the route enters the village of Khino. Only one family lives in this village, there is a monastery and the ruins of an old church. According to legend, the name “Khino” is associated with Queen Tamar. Once this village was visited by Queen Tamara and a big feast was held in her honor. Hence the name of the village “Khino” (Lkhini, Lkhena - feast / feast) originated. The 4-kilometer section of the trail from Khino to Khinotsminda passes through the forest along a dirt road. If you accidentally bump into a vehicle while traveling on the road, you can take it and save your time.

At the beginning of the village of Khinotsminda, there used to be the Church of St. John the Baptist, which by its construction technology dates back to the 8th-9th centuries. According to historical data, only the altar has survived, which in 1919 it was completely destroyed. During the route, travelers will spend the night in Khinotsminda, in the local guest houses or in tents. 5.8 km from Khinotsminda, in the vicinity of Mount Sarbiela, there is a crossroads, from where a 4.4 km hiking trail leads to the north to Lake Tbikeli, and a 9-km trail to Jvarimindori to the east. The trail from Khinotsminda to Lake Tbikeli is marked, its length is 10 km. Lake Tbikeli, located between the mountains, fascinates at first glance with its oval shape and mirror surface. Around it you will find a very clean meadow and unspoiled nature. Lake Tbikeli is located at an altitude of 2200 meters above sea level. If you look closely at the clear water, you will easily notice the Caucasian newts in it, listed in the Red Book of Georgia. You can spend your second night in tents near Lake Tbikeli. It is important to know that there is no telephone connection or the Internet and you cannot contact anyone from here if necessary. In addition, the lake is foggy in the evenings and windy at night. Considering all of the above, it is better to return and spend the night in tents at the already marked place (in Khinotsminda). Jvarimindori is a spacious alpine meadow, often covered with fog, with wooden cabins. A traveler who has come here from afar can relax in these houses and eat fresh local products. AJARA Life Magazine 17

LET’S DISCOVER AJARA! ROUTES MINDAZEEBI VILLAGE - KIKIBO PASTURES (YAYLAS) Route type: circular Route type: pedestrian, car, horse, bicycle Difficulty of the route: medium Total route length: 32.1 km Maximum from sea level: 2641 m Duration of the route: 12 hours 40 minutes Cellular coverage area: partial Seasons: May-September The route starts from the road connecting the center of Khulo and the Gorjomi gorge. The route starts from the road connecting the center of Khulo and the Gorjomi gorge. The village of Mindadzeebi is located two kilometers from here. The route runs along the paved road. After passing through the village of Mindazeebi, a dirt road for off-road vehicles begins. It passes through the forest. After 8 kilometers, the route reaches the gorge of the Chudurouli River. This spacious plain has been home to numerous folk festivals and events for many years. On holidays, shepherds from Adjara, Adigeni and Guria gather here. Locals call this place Chudurouli. Next, you need to follow the trail northwest of the Chudurouli river bank. Here you will come across a sign from which you must again follow the river to the northwest towards the Jangjnari yayla. After reaching the yayla, you must follow the road west to the pass. Here the route intersects with a dirt road that leads east to the Leknari Yaila through a place called “Bodishi”, connecting with the road leading to the village of Gorjomi and the resort of Bakhmaro. To the north, the

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trail leads to Mount Tbiseri. On the way, you will pass a place called Karchkhlikapana, Mount Satseravi and reach the Chidila Pass, where the route again follows the unpaved, off-road road connecting Gorjomi and Bakhmaro. After 3 kilometers, you will arrive at the Kikibo Yayla and reach your destination. The circular route continues from the Kikibo yayla to a dirt road leading to the Chidila pass. From here, to the southeast, you need to cross the road leading to Mount Satseri, which first leads to Mount Tbiseri and then to Mount Karchkhlikapani. You will cross the alpine fields towards the mountain and reach the pass where the road intersects. At the crossroads, the road goes northeast to Yaila Janjnari, east to Yaila Leknari and southeast to Chudurouli. From Chuduruli, a dirt road leads through the forest to the Mindadzeebi village.

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TOP 11 BASIC GEORGIAN TOASTS YOU MUST KNOW The tradition of conversation with the bowl in the hands, begun when people used to pray before the meal. The toast represents a small prayer for Georgians. The true Georgian toast is distinguished by its sincerity. The head of the Georgian table is Tamada. With its form, content and purpose, this concept has no analogy in the world.

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Tamada is responsible for the toast and consistent protection of the rule of feast. He is in charge of representing the family, the ancestors and generally, the aesthetic values of the hosts, the memory of the departed, the respect of the attendants. Tamada should be the intellectual and authoritative person.

A tamada (Georgian: თამადა) is a Georgian toastmaster at a Georgian supra (feast) or at a wedding, corresponding to the symposiarch at the Greek symposion or the thyle at the Anglo-Saxon sumbel. At all supras regardless of size, there is a tamada, or toastmaster, one person who introduces each toast. 1. The worship to the Lord 2. Toast for Peace 3. Toast of the country, motherland 4. Toast for the ancestors 5. Remembrance of the departed 6. To the future - the toast of children

7. Toast for Parents 8. Toast for the ladies 9. Toast for friends 10. Toast for Love 11. Toast for Georgian traditions and customs.

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HUNDREDS OF HOTELS OFFER FREE ACCOMMODATION TO UKRAINIAN VISITORS STRANDED IN GEORGIA

THE GEORGIAN NATIONAL TOURISM ADMINISTRATION HAS ALSO DESIGNATED A HOTLINE NUMBER REACHABLE THROUGH 0 800 800 909 - FOR VISITORS FROM UKRAINE IN NEED OF ASSISTANCE. Hundreds of Georgian-based hotels have offered free accommodation to Ukrainian visitors who are stranded in Georgia due to the outbreak of hostilities in their country this week, the Ministry of Economy said on Friday. Deputy Economy Minister Mariam Kvrivishvili noted up to 100 Ukrainian citizens had been provided with humanitarian assistance since Russia’s invasion of the country on Thursday. The Georgian National Tourism Administration has also designated a hotline number - reachable through

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0 800 800 909 - for visitors from Ukraine in need of assistance. In addition to the hospitality industry, free accommodation offers have been made through the Facebook groups Glory to Ukraine – Support from Georgia, as well as the page for the tourist campaign Spend 4 Seasons in Georgia. Georgian citizens have also offered free transportation throughout Georgia to Ukrainian visitors stranded in the country. (Source: Agenda.ge)

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RAFTING IN GEORGIA In Georgia there are many wild fast flowing rivers fed from glaciers in the surrounding mountains.

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Georgia is a country that has possibilities to do every kind of extreme sport, including rafting. This extreme sport in Georgia became popular since 1980s. Simply raft adventurers navigate through different degrees of rough waters (mostly rivers) in order to thrill and excite themselves as they bump up and down along strong waves and currents.

The basic principle of rafting is to haul down the river current using speedy inflated air-boats that usually have seats differing in number from one to twelve depending on boat type. Rafting season in Georgia starts in April and continues till the end of October. So if you are keen on rafting visit Georgia during this period and experience whitewater rafting in the Caucasus Mountains. There are several categories of rafting that are divided according to the difficulty of the river – class I is the easiest while class IV means life threatening. Rivers in Georgia offer opportunities for almost all rafting categories.

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KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:

WHITE WATER RAFTING

Jonesing for some wet n’ wild exercise that’s a little more extreme than a dip in the pool? Consider hitting some bubbly rapids. Adventure tourism — activities that involve an element of risk plus water, heights, or extreme speeds — is the perfect fit for adrenaline junkies. But if bungee jumping or ejecting yourself from a plane seems a bit too extreme, then try out beginner-friendly white water rafting. Here’s what to expect from that first white water run. Arts and Rafts — The Need-to-Know When we say raft, we don’t mean one like Tom Hanks fashioned in Castaway. We’re talking about an inflatable vessel that cuts through rushing streams and whips around doom-impending boulders. The mission: Propel and maneuver the raft with a paddle through varying grades of rapids. While an expert instructor takes on the brunt of the work, the team-focused exercise also amps strength and endurance levels for all rafters (usually eight per raft). Just a few hours scaling turbulent waters can burn some serious energy (over 300 calories per hour, on average), and work the arms, abs, and core. Frank Mooney, a river guide for over 20 years, says those shoulders and hips might also be a little sore after a day on the river. Adventurers may reap the benefit of some mood boosters, too. A study on wilderness river rafting trips found that rafting touted psychological advantages like relaxation, nature appreciation, or achievement . As far as safety goes, it’s not always the catastrophic stuff to

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watch out for (think capsizing and the like). Minor injuries like slips, trips, and falls were most frequently reported in a study of 21 adventure tourism activities including rafting, horseback riding, and tramping . Risky business may be grounds for injury, but with expert guides, proper instruction, and the right gear, white water rafting makes for a fun (and challenging) activity. Rapido, Rapido! — Your Action Plan To get first-time rapid-goers on their way, we talked to some veteran rafting guides and river experts for a few essential pointers. Here are their suggestions on what to bring, wear, and expect on the water. Start out slow: Experts classify rapids on a scale of 1-6. Class 1 rapids are small with a slow current and low waves, and no obstructions in the water (child’s play), while Class 6 rapids feature large, frequent waves (read: you will fall out and lose your shorts on the way). Wear proper wet gear: Expect to get soaked (who doesn’t love a good chance to show off that itsy bitsy, teenie weenie, yellow polka dot bikini?). And to stave off tush chafing, pack a pair of gym shorts or water-resistant shorts for a barrier to the raft. Reservationist Michelle Fisher recommends wearing synthetic materials because cotton pulls heat away. And to protect the toes, Fisher suggests water shoes over flip-flops.

De-bling: Leave jewelry, grillz, and cash money in the car. Sky Fogal, professional river guide at Pocono Whitewater, says, “The general rule of thumb for river trips is if it got lost or wet and it would ruin your day, don’t bring it.” Protect your noggin: Most facilities require rafters to wear helmets past Class 1 and 2, but it depends on the state, the river, and the company (who will provide them before launching). The right protective equipment, and procedures to hop in and out of the raft minimize the risk factors . Lather up: Logging a solid day in the sun requires some sun block application. “What folks don’t expect is how sunburned the tops of their thighs and neck will be,” says PJ Stevenson, a 17-year rafting veteran.

Stay afloat: Just like swimmies from the kiddie pool days, keep a lifejacket on at all times. In the event that you find yourself in the river, a lifejacket not only serves as a floatation device, but makes it easier for a guide to pull you back onboard. Dry off: Pack a change of clothes, a towel, and some water — though drenched, you’ll likely be thirsty once on land. White water rafting is not only a fun, exhilarating activity for most age groups, but also a way to switch up your workout routine and get some fresh air (and an excessive amount of water). Beginners should shoot for Class 1 and 2 rapids. (Source: Greatist, By Nicole McDermott) AJARA Life Magazine 29

In Georgia there are many wild fast flowing rivers fed from glaciers in the surrounding mountains. The water races from their 5.000 meter peaks to the sea. There are a lot of opportunities for rafting there, so you can take advantage of many safely organized tours and experience this incredible adventure by yourself.

KAYAKING IN GEORGIA Kayaking is a watersport that involves paddling using a double-bladed oar and a small boat known as a kayak. The boats come in a variety of sizes and types, depending on their intended use, but most kayaks feature an enclosed deck that covers the legs.

with other activities, like camping or fishing. Different kayaks are designed to handle specific conditions. Some are made for taking on white water courses, while others are built for racing and then there’s everything in between. Rivers, lakes, oceans and even surf zones are popular spots for kayaking and due to the different types, everyone from beginners to experts can enjoy the sport. The boat sits low in the water and usually only accommodates a single paddler, but tandem kayaks hold two people and some boats hold three people. Kayaking is a versatile sport that can be done in practically any body of water and is easily pared 30 AJARA Life Magazine

The beginner-friendliness and the epic challenges are a few of the reasons people kayak, but there are several others. Whether you’re looking to take in the sights in a distinctive way or you’re looking to get a low-impact workout, kayaking has something to offer everyone.

If you’re looking to try kayaking for the first time, it’s best to rent the equipment. The only gear you need is a kayak, a paddle and, in some places, a life jacket. If you’re going camping or fishing, you’ll need other supplies and if you plan on bringing things with you, a waterproof bag is a good idea. In flat-water kayaking, the learning curve is more than manageable, allowing most people to have fun on their first day out. As you progress there are interesting facets of the sport challenging enough to keep even the most advanced paddler interested. Options for expert kayakers include entering races, completing multi-day trips and tackling white water.

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UKRAINIAN CITIZENS IN TBILISI TO RECEIVE SPORT, EDUCATIONAL, ART VENUE SERVICES FREE OF CHARGE

The City Hall also said it had already offered some municipal services free of charge to Ukrainian citizens in the city, including free public transportation. Ukrainian citizens currently in the Georgian capital city of Tbilisi will receive services of a select group of sports centres, museum venues, theatre halls, libraries and art schools free of charge, Tbilisi City Hall announced earlier today. Tbilisi Deputy Mayor Andria Basilaia said the initiative aimed to support Ukrainians by helping them “maintain spiritual and physical strength” at the time of Russia’s invasion of their country. Enabling Ukrainian children to socialise and engage in activities is also a goal of the move. The city official added municipal services would provide detailed information about the offer to Ukrainian guests staying in Tbilisi hotels. The venues in Tbilisi providing Ukrainian citizens with their services free of charge as part of the initiative are: • National Youth Palace of Georgia • Tbilisi City Hall Football Sports Center ‘Imedi’ • Tbilisi City Hall Gymnastics Development Sports Center (including Acrobatics Center, Gymnastics Center, Tskneti Sports Complex) • Tbilisi City Hall Figure Skating Olympic Training Sports Center • Tbilisi City Hall Olympic Volleyball Training Center • Gldani-Nadzaladevi Complex Sports Center (including Gldani Swimming Pool, Kula Gldanieli Wrestling Hall, Mukhiani Rugby Complex, Nadzaladevi Sports Complex)

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• •

• • • • • • • • • • •

Tennis Development venue Isani-Samgori Complex Sports Center (including Lilo Sports Center, Vazisubani Rugby Court, Tennis Courts, Varketili Wrestling Hall, Lilo Swimming Pool) Ilia Chavchavadze Literary Memorial Museum Zakaria Paliashvili Memorial House Museum Nikoloz Baratashvili Memorial House Museum Galaktion Tabidze Memorial House Museum Vakhtang Chabukiani Memorial House Museum Kote & Soso Tsereteli Memorial House Museum Sandro Akhmeteli Drama Theatre Pantomime State Theatre Tbilisi Theater Globe Royal District Theatre Union of Tbilisi Municipality Multifunctional Libraries and its branches

The City Hall also said it had already offered some municipal services free of charge to Ukrainian citizens in the city, including free public transportation. The city agency opened a humanitarian aid point today where entrepreneurs, organisations and individuals are able to donate food and other basic necessities for Ukrainian citizens affected by the conflict in Ukraine. It also opened a special account at the State Treasury to enable donations from individuals to support Ukrainian citizens. The treasury code for the account is 300778800, while money donations should be entered under the designation “For Ukraine”. (Source: Agenda.ge)

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PRODUCE IN GEORGIA STATE CAMPAIGN TO PROVIDE PRODUCTS TO UKRAINIANS IN GEORGIA

Additionally, Georgian citizens and businesses have started to offer free overnight accommodation and other types of assistance to Ukrainians in the country through social media groups since the breakout of the war. Ukrainian citizens in Georgia will receive products of high necessity from companies that have been involved in the Produce in Georgia campaign launched in recent years by the government to support local entrepreneurship, in the latest move helping those affected by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine last week. The Georgian Economy Ministry announced a new “largescale campaign” under the #produceforukraine hashtag on Monday, revealing it would deliver products ranging from food to hygiene items and medicine to Ukrainians stranded in the country following the outbreak of hostilities.

POLISH BORDER VOLUNTEER THANKS GEORGIA FOR HUMANITARIAN AID TO UKRAINIAN REFUGEES The ministry said a number of the campaign’s beneficiary companies had already joined the initiative and added clothing, tarpaulin pieces, fuel tanks, floor insulation materials and other products would be included among eligible items.

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Georgia has provided aid worth one million GEL ($315,000/€279,000) to Ukraine, with The Georgian Post also announcing it would deliver humanitarian parcels to Ukrainian citizens free of charge.

GOV’T PLEDGES TO MAKE SURE UKRAINIAN VISITORS STRANDED IN GEORGIA BY WAR ARE “TAKEN CARE OF” Additionally, Georgian citizens and businesses have started to offer free overnight accommodation and other types of assistance to Ukrainians in the country through social media groups since the breakout of the war, while the Georgian National Tourism Administration launched a hotline for the purpose, reachable through the number 0 800 800 909. Russia began its military assault on Ukraine last weeks, after President Putin’s announcement of the recognition of the independence of the Ukrainian regions of Donetsk and Luhansk on February 21. (Source: Agenda.ge) (Photo: MINDIA DUMBADZE)

THE AIM OF THE CONSTRUCTION EXHIBITION IS TO UNITE LOCAL AND INTERNATIONAL COMPANIES IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY INTO A ONE SPACE, WHICH WILL HELP TO GET TO KNOW THE COMPANIES AND VISITORS FIND BUSINESS CONTACTS AND CONTINUE BUSINESS MEETINGS.

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JANUARY 2022: GEORGIAN WINE EXPORT UP 51%

A total of 123 companies exported wine from Georgia in January. Lithuania – 117,588 bottles (+114%) United States – 79,890 bottles (+245%) Latvia - 92,892 (+22%) Estonia – 64,344 bottles (+102%) Japan - 17,280 (+482%) United Kingdom – 42,528 bottles (+35%)

Georgia exported 5,3 million bottles of wine to 35 countries in January 2022, 51 percent more compared to the same period from last year, the Ministry of Agriculture and Environmental Protection announced on Tuesday. The exports generated $11.6 million from the sale of wine abroad in January, marking an increase of 43 percent, according to data from the state body. The volume of exports increased in strategic markets for Georgian wines: Poland – 502,986 bottles (+103%) China – 278,493 bottles (+514%)

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The ministry also announced increases observed in the following countries: Ukraine - 574,566 (+93%) Kazakhstan - 99,672 (+106%) Netherlands – 18,270 bottles (+74%) Sweden - 19,590 (+234%) Russia - 3,204,979 (+34%) Mongolia – 40,884 bottles (+23%) A total of 123 companies exported wine from Georgia in January. Last year’s combined exports involved 107 million bottles of wine, a record-high figure over the last nine years. (Source: Agenda.ge)

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meters above the sea level

ESTECO TURNKEY CONSTRUCTION OF HOUSES IN GEORGIA

Коттеджный комплекс из 9 вилл Уникальная локация: вид на море и город, потрясающий закат Земельные участки до 9 соток с домом в собственность Инвестиционная привлекательность коттеджей премиум-класса

www.estecohome.com +995 555 08 19 19 estecohome@gmail.com

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JANUARY 2022: INTERNATIONAL TRAVELER VISITS UP 471% IN GEORGIA Official statistics published by GNTA in mid-January 2022 showed a total of 1,881,271 international travelers visited the country in 2021, an increase of 7.7 percent compared to 2020. Visits by international travelers to Georgia reached the figure of 199,393 in January, making a 38 percent increase compared to the same month in 2019, and a 471 percent growth compared to January 2021, the Georgian National Tourism Administration (GNTA) said earlier on Thursday. For visits with focus on tourism, the number reached 163,615 in January, which is 456 percent more compared to the same month of 2021 and a 53 percent spike com-

38 AJARA Life Magazine

pared to January 2019. Official statistics published by GNTA in mid-January 2022 showed a total of 1,881,271 international travelers visited the country in 2021, an increase of 7.7 percent compared to 2020. They also revealed in 2021 international tourist revenue in Georgia had reached $1,244, 941,717. The agency also noted 38 percent of the revenue had been recovered since the economic slowdown resulting from pandemic-related restrictions. (Source: Agenda.ge)

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GEORGIA T I S I V O T WAY T THE BES We bring new European standards to the travel industry in the Caucasus region. World Sightseeing Tour makes holidays affordable for everybody. Our prices are not a little bit cheaper - most of our packages are half of the market price Are you looking for a truly unique tour, something absolutely new and at the same time as old as ancient Greece? Then WST & CitySightseeing Tbilisi has all what you are looking for – a isit to and incredible land of Georgia and the outh Caucasus. The country of Golden Fleece, a birthplace of wine, fascinating dance and polyphonic songs, a place where there are no hosts and no guests, where all can travel to discover something special, without which life would be incomplete. You can visit, see and feel, fulfill your dreams, make your trip a magnificent adventure, meet people connecting old culture and traditions with ultramodern life, locals with great soul and a great instinct of ancient hospitality. Do you want active or relaxing vacancy in absolutely new surrounding in multi climate Caucasus Region? Reach Georgian, Armenian and Azerbaijani icy peaks or stay in relaxing comfortable hotels on a seaside. Choose any tour with our travel agency and use your opportunity to make your

40 AJARA Life Magazine

dreams come true. WST & CitySightseeing Tbilisi , the leading tour operator in South Caucasus, will always take care of your holiday. Let us be your traveler’s key to the Caucasus region to make sure you enjoy your travel and take unforgettable memories with you. You will be able to cover the wide range of the region’s beautiful landscapes, unique nature and great variety of its climate zones. Feel Georgia’s truly pleasant climate through the year from summer tours for nature lovers and trekkers, until winter tours for skiers and mountain climbers. And in between the autumn beauty of vintage and traditional harvesting. If you happen to be on a business trip, you can still combine your work with great leisure time. From the sea to the top of the mountains, WST & CitySightseeing Tbilisi tour operator, Georgia and South Caucasus are waiting for you. You will travel to the real Paradise. With best wishes, WST & City Sightseeing Tbilisi

DAY TRIPS ANANURI - KAZBEGI MOUNTAINS

KAKHETI WINE REGION

BOOK YOUR TRIP IN ADVANCE!

Meeting Point: Citysightseeing Tbilisi Office Duration of tour: 10:00-19:00

WE VISIT

ADULT /CHILD

65 GEL

Ananuri, Zhinvali Lake, Kazbegi mountains

Meeting Point: Citysightseeing Tbilisi Office Duration of tour: 10:00-19:00

ADULT /CHILD

60 GEL

WE VISIT

The Monastery of St. Nino in Bodbe Sighnaghi – the city of Love Tsinandali – wine cellars, wine-tasting

VARDZIA - RABATI - BORJOMI

KUTAISI - PROMETE CAVE

BOOK YOUR TRIP IN ADVANCE!

Meeting Point: Citysightseeing Tbilisi Office Duration of tour: 09:00-21:00

WE VISIT

ADULT /CHILD

90 GEL

Borjomi mineral springs and park,Vardzia cave town Akhaltsikhe, Rabati fortress

Meeting Point: Citysightseeing Tbilisi Office Duration of tour: 09:00-21:00

WE VISIT

ADULT /CHILD

85 GEL

Bagrati Cathedral, Gelaty Monastic Complex Motsameta Monastery Prometheus cave

GORI-UPLISTSIKHE OLD TOWNS

DAVID GAREJI MONASTERY COMLEX

BOOK YOUR TRIP IN ADVANCE!

Meeting Point: Citysightseeing Tbilisi Office Duration of tour: 10:00-16:00

WE VISIT Gori Uflistsikhe

ADULT /CHILD

55 GEL

Meeting Point: Citysightseeing Tbilisi Office Duration of tour: 10:00-16:00

WE VISIT

ADULT /CHILD

70 GEL

David Gareji, Georgian-Azerbaijani border, The ancient village Martkopi, Martkopi Generic tower, Martkopi monastery to the tomb of st. Anthony

Contact: +995 514 21 77 22 +995 322 43 88 08 info@citysightseeing.com.ge Str. Kote Apkhzi 44 (Meidan Sq.)

www.cstbilisi.com AJARA Life Magazine 41

KHARITON AKHVLEDIANI MUSEUM A STORY ABOUT ONE EXHIBIT SYMBOLIC KEY OF BATUMI Khariton Akhvlediani Museum Address: Batumi, Khariton Akhvlediani 4 The museum is open every day, from 10:00 to 18:00

Batumi is a city located in the west of Georgia and is the administrative center of the Autonomous Republic of Adjara. It is the second most populated city in entire Georgia. It is also a major international port on the southeastern coast of the Black Sea as well as one of the most important tourist centers of the country. The name “Batumi” comes from the Greek word “Batusi”, which means deep. It is first mentioned by the Roman writer Illyrian. In the middle of the 15th century there was a settlement called “Bathys” on the water of the river Batisi. As for its Iberian name “Patom” was transformed during the Turks and “Patum” was formed. Archeological materials found on the left bank of the Korolistskali River near Batumi confirm that these areas were inhabited by humans as early as the IInd-Ist millennium BC.

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”

By the beginning of the XIX century, Batumi was a small, seaside settlement. Only the area near the Gulf of Batumi was developed, the rest was covered with swamps and impassable forests. In 1807 the French traveler Adrian Dupre was visiting the city and wrote in his diaries that first signs of urban life were already felt in Batumi - there was a market, shops, production and export, ships were importing and exporting various goods. According to him, the population at that period already exceeded 2000 persons. In 1810, the French Louis Luper and Marcel Fontrier traveled to Batumi. According to them, the port was very active and many international ships often entered the port bringing various goods.

In 1878, Batumi was declared Porto-Franco and the dutyfree regime operated from 1878 to 1886. 1883 Samtredia - Batumi Railway was put into operation, which made it possible to export Baku oil to the world market through the Transcaucasian Railway and Batumi port.

seized for 300 years by the Ottomans have been returned to Georgia. On August 25, 1878, units of the GeorgianRussian Joint Army under the command of General Sviatapolk-Mirsky solemnly entered Batumi and at the farewell ceremony at Azizie (today Zviad Gamsakhurdia)

While getting acquainted with the exposition of the Khariton Akhvlediani Museum, one of the exhibits - “Symbolic Key of Batumi”, which was discovered in March 1918, attracts attention. This is the period when the Turks were attacking Batumi and leaving the city with the last ships loaded with refugees. One of such ships was the Vedi, on which the above-mentioned key was found by the port worker Sergei Maxim Gonchar.

Square, the key of the city was passed from hands of Devrish Pasha to General Sviatopolk-Mirsky. According to the second version, on April 28, 1888, Batumi received the status of a self-governing city. To mark this day, the head of the civilian unit of the Caucasus Government arrived in Batumi and officially handed over the symbolic key to the military governor of the Batumi district, Smekalov.

He lived at N3 Sverdlov Street in Batumi. The symbolic key was kept with him for 39 years. On November 21, 1957, he sold the key to the Khariton Akhvlediani Museum. The key purchase deed is accompanied by a story told by him about the alleged origin and finding of the key. The key was given the inventory number - 17471. There are two versions of the origin of the key: According to the first version, during the Russo-Ottoman War of 1877-1878, by the decision of the Berlin Congress, Batumi and the whole of Adjara, as well as Shavsheti, Klarjeti, Kola-Artaan and Oltis were annexed by the Russian Empire. Historically occupied Georgian lands AJARA Life Magazine 43

PROMOTING TOURISM The Enguri dome-shaped dam is considered a unique construction in global hydroelectric engineering.

Georgia is encouraging people to go to the far north-west and visit one of the country’s most unique monuments, the Enguri River dam. The dome-shaped dam is regarded as the world’s second largest concrete arch dam, measuring 271.5 metres high and 728 metres wide. This week officials announced plans to build new tourist infrastructure at the site to encourage more local and foreign visitors. This new infrastructure included a visitor centre, museum and high lookout spots that overlooked Enguri River. The dam located near Georgia’s north-western town of Jvari, was last years added to the list of the country’s most distinguished cultural heritage sights and officially granted the status of National Monument.

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Enguri dam is an interesting place in Georgia as it lies on the administrative boundary separating Georgia from its occupied Abkhazia region. The dam is part of the Enguri Hydro-Electric Power Plant. In a unique division, the dam is located on Georgiancontrolled territory while the underground station of the power plant - serving to generate electricity - is on the other side, under Abkhazian control. Because of this it is jointly operated by staff from both sides of the Administrative Boundary Line (ABL). The plan to develop the monument was created with help from Estonian experts Ott Sarapuu and Andrus Koeresaar and will include efforts to involve the Abkhazian side in preparing a submission to recognise the dam as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

AT GEORGIA’S UNIQUE ENGURI DAM Recognised as the largest hydroelectric plant in South Caucasus, the Enguri power plant is a sprawling complex built on an area of nearly 1,000 km2, from Jvari town to the Black Sea. The electricity generated by the dam goes back into grids in Abkhazia, while it also serves nearly half of Georgia’s hydro energy requirements. Construction of Enguri dam began in 1961 and at the time was unprecedented for its scale and ambition. Completed in 1977, the dam was the final result of a half-century process initiated by Georgian public figure Niko Nikoladze (1843-1928) just before World War I. Aiming to find ways to use Georgia’s rich hydroelectric potential, Nikoladze invited engineers from St. Petersburg, Russia to study the feasibility of

building a plant on Enguri River. Their efforts, as well as a number of follow-up projects over the following decades by independent experts and Soviet-era planners were deemed unfeasible due to financial and practical considerations, before the 1961 project received green light from authorities.

The final Enguri dam construction was the largest-ever industrial project in Georgia, with the finished plant attracting attention of international experts and global engineering publications over decades during the Soviet era. Involving a specially created mix of concrete building material, the building was the largest arched hydroelectric dam in the world until a construction of a larger dam project in China began in 2012. (Source: Agenda.ge) AJARA Life Magazine 45

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HOSPITALITY & REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN GEORGIA Georgia is incredibly well placed at the gateway of Europe and Asia, with Georgia at its heart. Hospitality is country’s calling card to the world, with sophisticated transport and communications networks, and frictionless visa free access for the citizens of more than 98 countries. And the country looks forward to welcoming visitors back when it is safe to do so. Georgia has predominantly proved to be a highly desirable location for the hospitality and real estate sectors. With its unique cultural heritage and exuberant hospitality, Georgia has seen a dynamic growth of international visitors over the recent years. Country received only 2 million international visitors in 2010, but in 2019, number of visitors reached a record high of 9.4

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million (7.8 % y/y growth). Taking into consideration the fact that the population of Georgia is only 3.7 million people, it is clear that the country is a very attractive tourist destination. Due to high demand and occupancy rates, international brand hotels are mushrooming in Georgia. With fewer regulations, a simplified tax structure, and new infrastructure improvement initiatives, Georgian leaders are working to create an environment in which local and foreign companies can flourish. The strong growth investors are experiencing in hospitality and real estate sector represents the fruits of reform—the success of policies that introduced flexibility in to the economy.

INVEST IN AJARA REGION HOSPITALITY & REAL ESTATE Georgia’s Black Sea coast encompasses the towns of Kobuleti, Gonio, Kvariati, Sarpi, Chakvi, Anaklia, Ureki, Shekvetili, and Grigoleti. Adjara Region, located in the southwestern corner of Georgia, is known for its admirable seaside journeys and experiences. The resort towns attract visitors looking for an escape from urban life, while remaining close enough to vibrant Batumi that they can enjoy a variety of entertainment options. The seaside resort hotels market consists of 484 hotels with 13,116 rooms. Since 2018, the number of hotel rooms in Georgian seaside resorts has increased by 8.5%. Due to the growing number of international visitors, commercial real estate, including international brand

hotels are rapidly developing in Georgia’s Black sea resorts. Sun-Beach resorts are one of the largest and fastest-growing touristic destinations in Georgia. Adjara was visited by an unprecedented number of travelers in 2019. Particularly high number of international traveler trips increased by 8 % from 2 mlnin 2018 to 2.2mln in 2019. Batumi is especially popular amongst neighboring countries. Turkey, Russia, Azerbaijan and Ukraine are clearly top source markets of international trips to Batumi. Individuals from European countries are also actively starting to travel to Batumi. In 2019 the number of international trips from EU countries has increased by 43% from 104.7 thousand in 2018 to 149.9 thousand. Source: investingeorgia.org

Dental Lounge clinic is a state-of-the-art private healthcare clinic in Batumi, specializing in a full mouse restoration (smile makeover) treatments for overseas patients. We offer a full range of affordable and professional dental care to help you maintain a healthy smile. Our clinic is valued for its expertise in implantology and cosmetic dentistry, its extensive background in implants and restoration, and the highly-qualified and experienced staff. The moment you step into our office, you will notice that it is our top priority to hear and understand your needs and concerns while making you feel relaxed and comfortable. We are committed to providing you with the finest dental treatments you could come across anywhere the globe.

www.dentallounge.ge daviddentclinic@gmail.com dental_lounge_batumi dentallounge.batumi +995 550 00 00 72 5 Nuretin Charmikli Batumi 49 AJARA LifeSt., Magazine

HOSPITALITY & REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN GEORGIA

Batumi is especially popular amongst neighboring countries. Turkey, Russia, Azerbaijan and Ukraine are clearly top source markets of international trips to Batumi. Individuals from European and Asian countries are also actively starting to travel to Batumi. Great Performance Indicators - High Demand In 2019, the number of international traveler trips grew by 7.8% YoY from 8.7 mln to 9.4 mln. The number of tourist arrivals increased by 8.3%, constituting 65.7% (5.1 mln) of the total number of international visits, while same same-day trips stood at about 34.2%. Georgia’s tourism market is sourced dominantly by neighboring countries (71% of tourist trips in 2019). However, there’s significant increases shown from other non-neighboring countries. During last five years, the number of business trips is growing on average by 9% annually. The tourism industry accounted for 8.1% of Georgia’s economy in 2019. The same year, tourism value added grew by 16.9% YoY and amounted to USD 1.3 billion (GEL 3.53 billion). Tourism value added reflects the economic activity generated by industries such as hotels, food and beverage (F&B), travel agencies, airlines and other transportation services. The transport

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category, which represents 38% of the total value added, grew by 20% YoY. The F&B industry grew by 23%, while the travel agencies and the accommodation categories increased by 17% and 11%, respectively. Rich Natural and Cultural Resources Distinctive among the world’s nations with its biodiversity, Georgia boasts rich natural and cultural resources and is home to more than 12,000 historical and cultural monuments, four of which are included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Adjara Region is famous for its black sea coasts and bright lifestyle, while winter resorts offer an extraordinary experience including free ride and heli-skiing. With Tskaltubo medical and wellness resort Georgia is a unique wellness and SPA destination in the Region. For those who enjoy gaming, Georgia can provide a high-quality gaming experience equal to world-class gambling destinations without the restrictive legislation.

Well connected and easily accessible location Georgia is a regional center located on the shortest route between Europe and Asia. International visitors enjoy easy access by three international airports (Tbilisi, Batumi, and Kutaisi), modern railway and visa liberalization system. Citizens of 98 countries can travel to Georgia without a visa and stay up to one full year. In addition, foreigners who hold a visa/residence permit of 50 countries can enjoy visa-free travel to Georgia. Airlines carried 1.97 million international travelers in 2019. In 2019, there were 50 international and two domestic airlines operating on the Georgian market. Wizz Air Hungary is the largest company operating on the Georgian market. It offers flights to up to 39 destinations. In 2019, it provided service for 825,290 passengers (16% of the total trips).

WHY

INVEST IN

HOSPITALITY

& REAL ESTATE

The second largest company is Turkish Airlines, with 572,181 passengers and 11.1% of the market share. This is followed by Georgian Airways, Ural Airlines, Fly Dubai, and Ukraine International Airlines. International Airlines. In 2018, one Georgian, My Way Airlines, and nine international companies appeared on the market. Additionally, in 2019, Ryanair, one of the Europe’s low-cost and most popular airlines, also entered Georgia, offering two routes from Tbilisi and two from Kutaisi. Stable and Safe Country Georgia is Stable economic and political market, and a safe country to invest in. This stable and secure country has an extremely well-functioning business environment. In the recent Doing Business 2020 report by the World Bank, Georgia ranks 7th out of 190 countries on the ‘Ease of Doing Business’ criteria. It sits alongside developed markets, such as the US, Singapore, Denmark, Norway and the UK, among others. Georgia is featured on the list of 10 top improvers for three consecutive Doing Business cycles. Numbeo, the world’s largest cost of living database, has released its Crime Index by Country 2020 in which Georgia is the world’s fourth safest country and the safest country of Europe. Georgia took fourth place among 133

foreign states and improved its ranking by two points compared to last year. Source: investingeorgia.org AJARA Life Magazine 51

RUEBUSH GARDENS HOTEL 52 AJARA Life Magazine

www.ruebushgroup.com

YOU CAN REALLY BUY A LUXURY HOTEL ROOM IN BATUMI INVESTMENTS FROM $53,500 AND UP. MONTHLY INSTALLMENTS AVAILABLE WITH 10% INITIAL PAYMENT. This sub-tropical retreat is located right on the beach and just steps away from the world-famous Batumi Botanical Gardens. It has a luxurios spa, yoga, fitness, infinity pool, and plenty of lush mountains and forests all around. It is located on the cleanest and most beautiful beach in the region. Investors can expect dependable monthly income through nightly bookings and a very strong potential for resale profits.

AJARA Life Magazine 53

info@ruebushgroup.com | 110 Vakhtang Gorgasali St. Batumi.

STORY OF BCB MEMBER

“

We have worked for many years in various advertising companies and have gained a lot of experience over the years. “ TEO PROMOTION “ doing all services from design to outdoor advertising of any complexity.

Owners of “TEO PROMOTION” Comapany

TEO SULAKVELIDZE & BEKA RAMISHVILI

ONE OF THE MOST FAMOUS PRINTING HOUSES IN BATUMI. A TEAM THAT COOPERATES WITH THE LARGEST COMPANIES IN THE COUNTRY. Please tell us about yourself: - My name is Teo Sulakvelidze. Me and my husband, Beka Ramishvili , one year ago opened a company named “Teo Promotion”. We have worked for many years in various advertising companies and have gained a lot of experience over the years. We are happy that the time has come when we were able to open our own advertising agency and printing house, in which we are able to combine the best of what is on the market. - How did you decide to open your own business?

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We took the matter very seriously and painted everything in detail down to the smallest detail. Our goal is to stand out and not get lost on the background of competitors. - What is your biggest advantage? We believe that it’s our individual approach to the client. We do not work on one-time orders, it is important for us to satisfy the needs of customers on a regular basis. For many years we have served companies that are satisfied with our service and this is our reward. Teo Promotion is one big family.

- What services do you provide? All services from design to outdoor advertising of any complexity. If there happens that some services we cannot produce in our company then we turn to our partners in Tbilisi. We try to meet all the needs of the market and monthly purchase new equipment for high-quality printing, etc. - Who are your clients? Our clients are both international and local companies. We are approached by both locals and expats. We work with more than 600 companies and every day we see the fruit of our labor in (signs, menus, business cards), which gives us a

reason to be proud. - What are your plans for the next 5 years? We have a lot. We can say top 5: 1. To meet the needs of each customer as much as possible. 2. Offer a full range of all services at the best price. 3. Raise the quality bar to the maximum. 4. Expand the team, maybe even open small training courses. 5. Open a branch in Tbilisi. We wish good luck to “Teo Promotion”. May all goals be achieved. Photo by Veronica Kravetz

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STORY OF BCB MEMBER

“

“SheffPoint” Restaurant is a traditional Georgian cuisine with new version and fusion of dishes known all over the world. “SheffPoint” is a unique combination of comfort, quality of service and unforgettable taste, as well as the best combination of price and quality.

RESTAURANT

Co Owner of “SheffPoint” Restaurant

Giorgi Kontselidze SHEFFPOINT ЛАБОРАТОРИЯ ГРУЗИНСКОЙ КУХНИ 1. Tell us about yourself My name is Giorgi Kontselidze. For a long time I lived out of Georgia, and now I live in Batumi. My brothers and I are business partners. In January 2022, we opened a new restaurant in the city center “SheffPoint”. Prior to the creation of a common project, we worked in various fields and have extensive experiences. 2. Why this particular area of activity? We always wanted to create a place in our beloved city where everything would be harmonious from the interior to the quality and serving of dishes. Such places are very few in Batumi. We felt that shortage and decided to fill it.

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3. Tell us more about your restaurant? Restaurant “SheffPoint” is a traditional Georgian cuisine with new version and fusion of dishes known all over the world. Exclusive interior design creates an amazing atmosphere and comfort. We also have a large selection of wines, delicious desserts, fresh bread that we bake ourselves and a vibrant musical program. 4. The market is oversaturated, how is your restaurant different from others? We approach the matter with all our heart, therefore the team was recruited with the same ideology. All products used in our restaurant

“

OUR COMMUNITY COUNTS OVER 700 MEMBERS, WE ARE ALWAYS HAPPY TO MEET NEW MEMBERS AND DO NOT DIVIDE PEOPLE INTO CATEGORIES. OUR DOORS ARE ALWAYS OPEN TO EVERYONE! are delivered every day from our partner Agrohub, we do not work with frozen products. From the first day of work, we decided that we would work according to HACCP standards, which allow us to maintain a level of cleanliness and order according to international standards. 5. What are the top 5 most important advantages of your restaurant? “SheffPoint” is a unique combination of comfort, quality of service and unforgettable taste, as well as the best

combination of price and quality. And for our little guests, we have prepared an interesting children’s room, where they can have fun. Based on this, we can highlight 6 main advantages: - service - kitchen and bar - interior - location - musical program - children’s room We are waiting for everyone to visit. You will definitely like it. Photo by @mindia_dumbadze

BCB - is the community which unites people from different spheres of businesses but with one goal, promote its businesses and share its experiences. Throughout the year we unite various entrepreneurs, business people and specialists. Our community counts over 700 members. We dont mentor or put out our opinion, we created a platform where people can share their experiences with potentials of collaborations between each business sphere. We are always happy to meet new members and do not divide people into categories. Our doors are always open to everyone! Would like to express special thanks to Ajara Life Magazine for the opportunity to announce our community.

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THE HOUSE “SAKHLI”

For the first time in sunny Batumi, the annual Sakhli Awards was held!

This is an honorary award for the contribution and development of our country, region and certain important sectors. - In the nomination “Contribution to the development of the region” won the magazine “Ajara Life”. The first non-commercial magazine that helps businessmen and companies to express themselves to the whole world.They give everyone a chance to develop and tremendous support.Our partners, which we are very proud of. A company that is doing its best to develop the region of Adjara in the right direction. - Natalya Georgieva won in the nomination “Contribution to the development of the children’s sec-

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tor”.More than 100 swimming schools around the world, children camps, kindergartens and schools in Batumi. Thank you for giving our children a good education! - In the nomination for “contribution to the promotion of ecology, conscious sorting and recycling of plastic”, Timur and company “SevaPlastic” has won. A company that is rapidly making the whole of Adjara cleaner and giving a second life to plastic. - In the nomination “Breakthrough of the Year” won the company “Unbox”- Psychological center and development center for adults and children.Nikolai

and Yulia are doing great job every single day, which cannot be underestimated. In one year, you friends have made a huge step forward. - “For contribution to the development of the expat party gatherings” is awarded “Cha Cha Time” Veterans in the most beautiful sense of the word! A team that we respect and appreciate very much. Innovators!!! And those who first gave expats the opportunity to get together and get to know each other.You can be rewarded for many things, but today, like this. - Artyom Frolov won for kindness of heart in the nomination “Audience Choice Award”.A person who will always help with advice, from the heart and with joy. Not for money, not for fame, but simply because he has a good heart. Entrepreneur, numerologist and just a wonderful person and friend. - Nomination “Photographer of the Year” Liana Gvianidze. This is a nomination for a talented, modest and hardworking girl who creates and preserves all our happy moments! Also, I would like to express my deep gratitude to everyone who helped in organizing this grand event: Veronika, Denis, Giviko “Good Evening”, Evgenia and Nana, Nodari, Victoria, Sergey and Anastasia Ruchinskih, DJ Zak, Murat and Abdulla, Alexey and our partners Yulia Shengelia, the best hookah in the city “Po Krasote”, Natalya Georgievna, Aphina Martley. We were glad to see you! See you next year! Photo by @likagvianidze AJARA Life Magazine 59

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UPS is recognized as one of World's Most Ethical Companies for Eleventh Consecutive year.

UPS delivers to more than 220 countries and territories worldwide. For bookings and enquiries: Tel: +995 32 2745 144 Tel: +995 32 2745 101 Tel: +995 32 2745 188

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UPS (NYSE: UPS) is a global leader in logistics, offering a broad range of solutions including transporting packages and freight; facilitating international trade, and deploying advanced technology to more efficiently manage the world of business. Headquartered in Atlanta, UPS serves more than 220 countries and territories worldwide, having more than 434,000 employees. The company can be found on the web at www.ups.com® and its corporate blog can be found at longitudes. ups.com. To get UPS news direct, visit pressroom.ups.com/RSS. UPS has broken barriers throughout its 100+ years as a leader in global commerce and is recognized as one of World’s Most Ethical Companies for Eleventh Consecutive year. In Georgia, Meridian Express LTD acts as the Authorized Service Contractor of UPS and provides high quality international and domestic express shipping and logistic services to customers. Meridian Express Ltd. provides UPS services in Georgia in compliance with UPS standards and quality and focuses on customers’ individual needs, demands and problem solutions.

Welcome To

GORI

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“

The original fortress, constructed on a hilltop, was named Gori (meaning hill in English), and was mentioned in the Georgian chronicles as early as the VII century. Some historians believe that the fortress was built by Byzantine Caesar Heraclius to store ammunition battles against the Persians. Just after the XI century the area became an active center for trade. According to some historians, this was due to David the Builder founding the town. Because of its geographical location, enemies frequently targeted the fortress, as conquering it enabled control of the whole Shida Kartli region. The fortress has been invaded many times and controlled by Ossetians, Iranians and Persians, amongst others. The stronghold has been repeatedly destroyed and rebuilt. The current iteration of the fortress was built in 1774, during the reign of Erekle II, but was significantly damaged by an earthquake in 1920. The Stalin Museum includes the memorial house where Joseph Stalin (1879-1953) was born, a museum building with a tower, and Stalin’s personal train car he used to visit Tehran, Yalta, and Potsdam. There are many unique exhibits displayed here, including personal belongings and collections of paintings, photos, films and other important historical artifacts.

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GORI HOW CAN GET IN? The current iteration of the fortress was built in 1774, during the reign of Erekle II, but was significantly damaged by an earthquake in 1920. The Stalin Museum includes the memorial house where Joseph Stalin (1879-1953) was born, a museum building with a tower, and Stalin’s personal train car he used to visit Tehran, Yalta, and Potsdam. There are many unique exhibits displayed here, including personal belongings and collections of paintings, photos, films and other important historical artifacts.

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Gori (Georgian: გორი ) is a city in the Shida Kartli region of Georgia most famous (or infamous) for being the birthplace of Joseph Vissarionovich Jughashvili, better known as Stalin. Today, surprisingly, it does not look much different from when Stalin ruled the USSR. Gori is also located a short drive from Uplistsikhe, an ancient Silk Road cave city and former regional centre of pagan worship.

By bus Many marshrutkas run daily between Tbilisi’s Didube market and the central square of Gori. If you’re arriving with the metro, go directly through the market (one-story houses) until you reach a square with only marshrutkas on it - just ask one of the drivers. Buses leave hourly from about 7am to 8pm, and the ride costs 3 GEL a person.

The name Gori may look and sound like the plural form of the Russian word for mountain (горы, GO-ry), but the name of Gori, incidentally meaning hill (singular) in Georgian, is much older than the first Russian contact with the Georgian kingdoms in 1500s. Get in By train Many trains run through Gori on their way to or from Tbilisi. Tickets can be purchased at local train stations. Last train to Borjomi leaves at 18:00.

By Taxi Another option is to take a taxi, which also leave from Didube bus station. Listen for the cab drivers calling out “Gori, Gori,” and get in their car. These cars leave as soon as they are full, so your wait could be anywhere from 5 minutes to an hour. The fare for one person in a shared cab should be 5 GEL. If you do not wish to share a taxi with others, then the cost should be about 20 GEL. Be sure to negotiate this with the driver before you get in the car. AJARA Life Magazine 67

10 MUST SEE PLACES 3. HISTORICAL-ETHNOGRAPHIC MUSEUM

The museum was founded in 1935. Currently, it houses more than 48,100 exhibits, including: handcrafted metal masterpieces, paintings, decorative sculptures, heraldic artifacts, unique Colchis silver coins (the only ones in the former USSR), coins dating back to the time periods of Queen Tamar and David Narin, ancient Eastern coins, epigraphic monuments in Georgian and Arabic languages, collections of manuscripts in the Georgian language, a vast photo archive, and many more attractions. Address: Gori, Kirion II St.

5. GORIJVARI

A church complex and local resort, located at an altitude of 600 meters. Low mineralized hydrosulfite, hydrocarbonchloride and sodium mineral water are used to prepare special therapeutic baths. The baths are used for treatment of musculoskeletal system issues and gynecological diseases; they also have a positive effect on the nervous system. The season for the resort usually runs June through September. Location: village of Great Gorijvari

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4. STATE MUSEUM OF JOSEPH STALIN

Soviet leader Joseph Stalin’s Museum was founded in 1937 and contains 60,000 exhibits. The museum includes the memorial house where Stalin is believed to have been born, an exhibition building, and Stalin’s personal train car, in which he traveled to Tehran, Yalta and Potsdam. The museum also houses Stalin’s personal belongings. Address: Gori., Stalin Av. №32

6. UPLISTSIKHE

Uplistikhe is a rock-hewn city, located just 10 km east of Gori, on the left bank of the river Mtkvari. One of the oldest settlements in the Caucasus region, Uplistikhe is first mentioned within the pages of history in the VII century. Uplistiskhe and its surrounding archeological and architectural monuments belong to a distinct group, the oldest of which dates back to the early Bronze Age, and are considered to be relics of the Kura-Araxes culture.

IN GORI, GEORGIA

7. ATENI GORGE

Alongside the natural biological diversity, the Ateni Gorge features plenty of tourist sites: Great Ateni – Ateni Sioni Church (VII Century), Ateni (Orbeliani) Fortresss (X-XI centuries), the Church of the Virgin Mary, mineral water “Bisi,” and more. Ateni Gorge is also a perfect destination for camping.

9. RUISI CATHEDRAL OF TRANSFIGURATION

The cathedral dates back to the VIII-IX centuries and is located 7 km from the town of Gori. According to sources, it was built by King Vakhtang Gorgasali. Despite the fact that the original structure of the building was not preserved, the VII century architectural style can easily be identified when looking at the building. Ruisi is associated with a number of important political events of the feudal age. Within the walls of this church, George II (1072-1083 AD) was crowned the King of Kartli. During this time, Ruisi was the capital city of Kartli.

8. VILLAGE GARDATENI

The village is located 6 kilometers from the town of Gori. Here you will find several important historic monuments, including: Vere fortress, the Church of Saint George, Vere Church of the Virgin Mary, the Green (Transfiguration) cathedral, Tsedisi Fortress, and other architectural monuments.

10. URBNISI CATHEDRAL

The cathedral is located within the Kareli municipality, in the village of Urbnisi. Stylistic elements, as well as paleographic assessments of inscriptions on the northern faзade estimate that the cathedral was constructed sometime in the V-VI centuries. The inscriptions on the facade feature names of the architects - Konstantin and father Mikheil. The rest of the inscriptions refer to dates of the church’s restorations.

(Source: Georgia.Travel) AJARA Life Magazine 69

Speak Georgian The country’s official language is Georgian, but English is widely used. Russian is also spoken by the majority of Georgians. See below for a list of some of the most common words.

Hello .................................................. gamarjoba Goodbye ............................. nakhvamdis, kargad Please ........................................... tu sheidzleba You’re welcome ....................................... arapris Thank you .............................................. madlobt Excuse me ........................................ ukatsravad Yes ........................................................ diakh, ki No ................................................................. ara Enjoy your meal ...................... gemrielad miirtvit Cheers! ............................................ gaumarjos! I don’t understand ................................. ar mesmis I don’t know ............................................. ar vici Help! ........................ mishvelet! damekhmaret! Hospital .......................................... saavdmkofo Ambulance .......................................... sastsrafo Where is…? ..................................... sad aris...? Do you speak English? .. inglisurad laparakobt? How much does … cost? ................... ra ghirs? What’s your name? .......................... ra gqviat? Right .................................................... marjvniv left ................................................... martskhniv Push (on a door) ................................ miatsekit Pull (on a door) ............................... gamoaghet Open ........................................................ ghiaa Closed ................................................. daketilia Beer ............................................................. ludi Wine ....................................................... ghvino Water ...................................................... tsk’ali One ............................................................... erti Two ................................................................ ori Three .......................................................... sami Four ........................................................... otkhi Five ............................................................ khuti Six ............................................................. ekvsi Seven ....................................................... shvidi Eight ............................................................. rva Nine .......................................................... tskhra Ten ................................................................. ati Hundred ....................................................... asi Thousand ................................................... atasi 70 AJARA Life Magazine

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Here, Chef Elene shares her recipe for Kharsho.

Kharsho ხარშო

Kharsho (Georgian: ხარშო), also known as Kharcho, is a traditional Georgian dish, usually made with beef or chicken. It can be made with walnuts and with or without rice.

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So, prepare your apron and kitchen tools and here we go: Kharsho (Chicken and Walnut Soup)

Ingredients 1 whole chicken 350 grams of walnuts 2 medium sized onions 3 cloves of garlic 1 heaped tbs of tomato puree 5 tbs of oil 1 tsp of dried marigold 1 level tsp of blue fenugreek 1 level tsp of dried coriander 1 tsp of dried red pepper and salt.

Instructions Cut the chicken into medium to large pieces and add, together with 5 tbs of oil (3-4 if the chicken is fatty) to a deep pot. Cook for 15 minutes on a low to medium heat. Finely chop the onions and add to the pot. Continue to cook for 10 minutes, stirring frequently. Add 1.5 liters of water. Stir and cook for a further 10 minutes on a medium heat. now Grind the walnuts and garlic together. Add 1 heaped tbs of tomato puree, 1 tsp of dried marigold, 1 level tsp of blue fenugreek, 1 level tsp of dried coriander, 1 tsp of dried red pepper, and salt (amount dependent upon personal preference) to the ground garlic and walnuts. Stir in 1 cup of the chicken juices and mix thoroughly. Stir and cook on a medium heat for 3-4 minutes and then serve.

Bon appetit! AJARA Life Magazine 75

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A unique project that has no analogues in Batumi

7 buildings with apartments ranging from 30 m2 to 97 m2

14 villas 2-3 storey with area from 227 m2 to 311 m2

START OF SALES The complex is located on a hill in one of the most picturesque places of Batumi on the way to the famous Sameba Temple.

The complex has an open view of the sights of the city, and an incredible pano panorama of the sea and mountains. The road takes only 5 minutes by car from the old Batumi. 84 AJARA Life Magazine

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