Ajara Life Magazine, issue 007 by Ajara Life Magazine

Ajara infotainment & Tourist Guide Magazine | AjaraLife.com | +995 577 20 24 56 | Vol.1 | Issue: 7 | May 2022

RENOVATED RAILWAY STATION TO CONNECT PASSENGERS TO KUTAISI AIRPORT IN GEORGIA’S WEST

DISCOVER BATUMI, CULTURAL MONUMENTS

AJ & G ARA EO TOU RG R IAN IST FO GUI OD DE S

BATUMI, TYPES OF TOURISM & ADVENTURE TOURS IN GEORGIA

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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 panorama of the sea and mountains. pano The road takes only 5 minutes by car from the old Batumi. 2 AJARA Life Magazine

7 buildings

with apartments ranging from 30 m2 to 97 m2

14 villas

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

A unique project that has no analogues in Batumi

INSTALLMENT FOR 36 MONTHS

salibaurihills.ge +995 706 777-134

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GARDEROBE

luxury shopping experience in Batumi 4 AJARA Life Magazine

Ingarderobe.com

14 K. Gamsakhurdia Str. Batumi, Georgia

Tel: +995 595 AJARA 505Life 185 Magazine

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BEST PLACE FOR SHOPPING WHEN THE SHOPPING IS A PLEASURE 10 AJARA Life Magazine

Batumi mall

88 Z.Gorgiladze St, Batumi.

+995 577225276

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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 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!

The beach in GONIO

Adventure tours in Georgia

Content

Batumi, Types of Tourism

244,293 int’l travellers visit Georgia in April

railway station ready to connect passengers to Kutaisi airport

Discover Batumi, Cultural Monuments

Kakheti province to host charity run for Ukraine next month

LEPL Ajara Museum is a union of museums

Welcome To Mestia

DOLMA (TOLMA ) STUFFED CABBAGE LEAVES

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TYPES OF TOURISM

BATUMI

In Georgia, particularly in Ajara there are truly unique natural conditions to develop different kinds of tourism. The most popular tourism directions are Sea tourism and Ecotourism (Rural Tourism, Bird watching). In recent years other popular tourism directions, such as wine tourism, ski and mountain tourism, Cruise tourism, MICE tourism and Gambling tourism began to develop.

SEA TOURISM Sea tourism is one of the most popular types of tourism in Ajara. The region’s subtropical climate, warm sea air, seaside resort infrastructure and unique geography are the ideal conditions for vacationers. The total length of the swimming area is 21 km. The average sea temperature is 16.7 oC.

ECO TOURISM Ecotourism is one of the leading types of tourism in Ajara. The region’s diverse flora and fauna, as well as abundance of historical and cultural monuments create ideal conditions for ecotourists ecotourism development alike. There are 4 protected areas in the territory of Ajara: Mtirala National Park, Kobuleti Protected Areas, Kintrishi Protected Area and Machakhela National Park.

RURAL TOURISM The picturesque nature, diverse flora and fauna, and hospitable culture make Ajara an excellent region for rural tourism and rural tourism development. Tourist farms in the villages of Ajara offer visitors the chance to involve themselves in many aspects of farm life, including cattle breeding, poultry farming, horticulture, viticulture and bee keeping. Guests can learn about popular national handicrafts, try delicious local dishes made using pure ingredients fresh from the farm, go horseback riding, hunting, fishing, camping and sightseeing.

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— SPRING 

BY THE POOL —

For more details: +995 42 225 5555 AJARA Life Magazine 15

CULINARY TOURISM Ajarian cuisine is an insperable part of Georgian cuisine; however, Ajarian cuisine has significant Asian influences. Dairy is a highly prevalent component of the foods typically eaten in the mountains of Ajara. Ajarian Khachapuri is the hallmark of Ajarian cuisine. There are also some must-try traditional sweets.

WINE TOURISM

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.

BIRDWATCHING The Black Sea Coast, and the surroundings of Batumi in particular, are known as “Eastern Black Sea Migration Corridor”. More than 1 000 000 raptors migrate through the corridor annually and the area has one of the highest volume of raptor migration in the world. The unique topography and climate of the region attract myriad migrating birds. Needless to say, Batumi is a must-visit location for birdwatchers. Villages Sakhalvasho and Chaisubani are located in Kobuleti municipality. Both of them are the best places for those, who share information about ecology and migration of raptors. The marked routes lead visitors directly to equipped platforms for bird watching). Despite these villages, bird watching is also possible in Mtirala National Park, Ispani Bog (Kobuleti protected areas) and Chorokhi delta (Khelvachauri municipality) Since 2012 year, “Batumi Bird Festival” Annually held in Ajara Region. It is important event for bird watchers and many foreigners visit Ajara region in September for the Festival. The idea of festival belongs to the international environment protection organization BRC (Batumi Raptor Count) and it is supported by the Department of Tourism and Resorts of Ajara.

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Ajara is home to the picturesque beaches of Batumi, Kvariati, Sarpi, Gonio, Tsikhisdziri, Mtsvane Kontskhi (the Green Cape) and Kobuleti. During the summertime, the beaches are often crowded with tourists enjoying their holidays.

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TYPES OF TOURISM

BATUMI

Batumi - the “Pearl of the Black Sea” as it is often called - is administrative centre of Ajara. European architects undertook numerous projects in Batumi at the beginning of the 20th cent. Today, Batumi is still a place of numerous architectural innovations.

CULTURAL TOURISM As demonstrated by the remnants of ancient monuments, as well as authentic cultural heritage, the region of Ajara is rich in both its culture and history. Ajarian dances “Khorumi” and “Ajaruli” originate from ancient times. In addition, they occupy an important place in Georgian folklore and perfectly express the Georgian identity. Ajara is also an archeological goldmine. In the 19th cent., Batumi was converted into seaport and European architects started to build the city. Numerous buildings in Batumi were constructed using different architectural styles, all of which contribute to the city’s distinctive and interesting aesthetic. Additionally, Ajara-Batumi often hosts major cultural, sports and scientific events, public festivals, international musical and film festivals and so on. Public Festivals: • Shuamtoba (August) • Machakhloba (September) • Kedeloba (October) • Chakvistaoba (September) • Selimoba (June) • Kolkhoba (August) • Autumn in Keda (October)

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One of the most beautiful regions in Georgia, Ajara is situated in southwest Georgia on the Black Sea coastline. Ajara operates as an autonomous republic in Georgia and has its own flag and coat of arms. Turkey borders Ajara to the south.

GAMBLING Gambling has become a popular tourism offering in Batumi. The city has a wide array of casinos available to local as well as foreign gamblers. At present, the majority of casinos in Batumi are located in within Batumi’s upscale hotels. The recent constructions of upscale hotels in Batumi point to the further development of the casino industry in Ajara.

MOUNTAINOUS SKI TOURISM Apart from sea resorts, the region of Ajara has great potential for ski and mountain tourism. In highlands the climate is humid. Winters are relatively cold and long, while summers are short and cool. The average height of Ajara’s mountains ranges between 2000-2500 meters. There are on-going ski resort infrastructure projects in the mountains, and there are resorts in the area that are open year-round for recreation, relaxation and entertainment.

MICE TOURISM

The well-developed tourist infrastructure, recently constructed middle and up-scale hotels, and other upcoming projects have made Ajara an attractive and promising MICE tourism destination on both the local and international market. Numerous international trade fairs and different events are hosted in Ajara year-round, making the region one of the most important MICE tourism centers in Georgia.

CRUISE TOURISM Batumi, a logistics center in Caucasus region, started to become a popular cruise destination in the second half of the 20th century. Consequently, interest in Batumi as a Black Sea cruise destination is steadily increasing, resulting in a growing number of cruise ships entering our region. At present Batumi Sea port hosts several big cruise ships, such as: Riviera, Amadeus, Island Sky, Albatros, Silver Wind, Minerva, Spirit of Adventure, Prinsendam, Regatta, Princess Daphne. AJARA Life Magazine 19

THE BEACH IN GONIO In summer, Ajara has very hot weather, which the best time to enjoying beach vacations and excursions. Therefore, the best time to visit the Black Sea resorts falls on June till end of September.

Convenient location and excellent transport accessibility are also included in the list of beach advantages in Gonio. It is possible to get to it from Batumi by taxi, bus or minibus in just 15-20 minutes. 20 AJARA Life Magazine

Gonio is a beach about 2 km long, located in the resort village of the same name, 10 km from Batumi. This is the first beach in a chain of small but cozy resorts stretching up to the Turkish border. Gonio is recognized as one of the best beaches in Adjara. It is comfortable and cozy and attracts tourists with its clean coastline, clear water, picturesque views of the mountains and the sea, a pleasant atmosphere of solitude. The beach in Gonio is wide and open, not crowded enough even in high season, so everyone, who is looking for a quiet, secluded place, will like it. Coverage on the beach, as well as in neighboring areas is shingle, and of quite a large size. It is more convenient to walk on it not barefoot, but in special shoes, that can be brought or bought in the village. The entry into the sea is steep and the shallow water area is very small, so after a few meters it becomes deep. The sea bottom is rocky, the water is pure and clear. There is no natural shade on the coastline, so to hide from the sun, it is necessary take or rent a beach umbrella.

The beach in Gonio can be divided into 3 areas: 1. The central part - a landscaped area, where you can rent beach equipment. 2. The southern part, neighboring to the Kvariati beach, is most popular with merried couples with children, since there is a wider area of shallow water, an entry into the sea is sloping with a gradual transition to depth. 3. The northern part - a wild site, adjacent to the outstation. The resort infrastructure in Gonio is being actively developed, therefore the beach is well equipped and has everything necessary for a comfortable pastime: rental service of beach equipment. It is often installed here in front of the surf line; within walking distance from the sea, and not at a distance, as is usually done on other beaches; changing cabins; paid beach activities - catamarans, jet skis, water skis, boat tours; volleyball court and trampolines for children; cafes and small restaurants under thatched roofs that offer Georgian cuisine. The surrounding area is often equipped with canopies and hammocks, where you can relax after a hearty meal.; outlets where you can buy souvenirs, air mattresses, children’s circles for swimming, special beach shoes. Sellers offering water and coffee, local sweets and fruits regularly walk along the beach. Along the entire beach stretches the waterfront, similar to the Batumi Seaside Boulevard. It is convenient for riding a bicycle, a gyro scooter, a gyroboard, making unhurried evening promenades. AJARA Life Magazine 21

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ADVENTURE TOURS IN GEORGIA Hunting and Fishing Georgia has an impressive diversity of fauna that makes this country attractive for Big Game as well as Small Game Hunters. Georgia is an important migration point for birds, passing through the border, which according to the season is a great opportunity to hunt more, than thirty different species of birds. When it comes to hunting activities of other animals and birds, there are specially located hunting farms allowing hunting across different parts of Georgia. Also Georgian lakes and rivers boast with variety of fish species. Major ones are trout, common carp, vendace, chub, crucian carp, silver carp, bighead carp and barbel. The best places for fishing are Paliastomi and Paravani lakes, Tkibuli and Shaori reservoirs, Black Sea coast of Samegrelo region, especially Anaklia. In Alazani and Aragvi rivers you can catch catfish and carp. There are also fish farms near Kutaisi and Kazbegi, and lake resorts Lopota and Kvareli, where you are charged for fishing, but you can also rent the equipment there, and be sure that your catch is guaranteed!

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Hiking and Trekking Getting away from it all is easy in Georgia. Whether you’re following ancient trails along lush river valleys, past ancient stone towers and castles or catching your breath on high altitude mountain paths, it is likely that you will be the only person for miles around. Many paths have been maintained over the centuries by locals dedicated to looking after their cattle and livestock, and with so many trails to choose from, your walk can be as challenging or as easy-going as you like. And what an experience. Marvel at the magnificent snowy peaks of the Caucasus Mountains, full of hidden valleys and glaciers. Lower down you come across more varieties of animals, birds and flowers than in any other European country. Wherever you walk, you’ll be sure of a warm welcome. Whether you choose to sit and drink some local wine, sample the delicious locally produced food or even stay overnight in the villagers’ homes, you’ll never be treated better.

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If you would like to explore impressive and natural attractions and enjoy exciting adventure moments of your life, GEORGIA would be a unique destination which provides you an unforgettable experience.

4x4 Adventure Because Georgia is a compact and diverse country, there is a very small distance between completely contrasting landscapes: deserts, sea, subtropics, tea plantations, high mountains etc. Almost everything can be seen within a day or so travelling in a 4x4 vehicle. See the breathtaking scenery change with your own eyes, moment by moment, and capture the essence of what it feels like to be in Georgia. There is also a chance to go offroad totally, without going through beaten paths. Enduro motorbikes and safari cars wait for you to drive you really crazy!

Experience Adventurous, Splendid, Wonderful, Relaxing and Refreshing Holiday which lasts lifetime in Georgia. 26 AJARA Life Magazine

Caving Georgia, especially its Western part, contains an amazing array of cave systems, from underground rivers and lakes to enormous caverns and limestone scenery. Trek or ride to some of the many canyons that make up the landscape, and feel the thrill of seeing the 300 million year old dinosaur footprint on the rock. They look so fresh that you can almost believe the animals that made them are only just around the next corner. The Tskaltubo Cave system has not yet been fully explored, but even now it offers to the adventurers the chance to go over a kilometer underground and take a boat across its enchanted lake. Professional cavers will find much for them in the Samegrelo and Imereti Regions.

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ADVENTURE TOURS IN GEORGIA Bird Watching

With over 360 endemic species of birds, Georgia is a bird-watchers dream. Principal migration routes through the high Caucasus and along the Black Sea corridor provide superb viewing opportunities in stunning settings.

Horse Riding Paragliding

Filled with high cliffs, hot sun, and icy peaks, the opportunities to catch a thermal in Georgia is overwhelming. Why not come and find that perfect spot for yourself.

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If walking becomes too tiring, you can always ride. Breathe in the pure sweet air as you gallop across the green plateaus of Southern Georgia; gasp as your horse pulls you up and over the high passes in Khevsureti or Tusheti. And at the end of the day, camp in the remotest, most idyllic of places or find a home stay to bed down for the night. Allowing you to travel into areas beyond the reach of even today’s 4x4s; you’ll understand why horses are so perfect for exploring more of the country.

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Experience Adventurous, Splendid, Wonderful, Relaxing and Refreshing Holiday which lasts lifetime in Georgia.

Rafting & Kayaking 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.

Eco - National Parks

Biking With so many fabulous mountains, countryside and well established paths, Georgia is a perfect venue to fulfill your mountain bike ambitions. Race along high ridges or amble down elegant valleys; the choice is limitless and invigorating!

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Georgia’s natural environment is one of the most special in the world. National parks and protected areas cover more than 7% of Georgia. 75% of the all protected areas are covered with woods. There are 14 national reserves, 9 national parks, 17 suppressed, 14 natural monuments and 2 protected landscapes in Georgia. The Georgian landscape is especially suited to eco-tourists, due to its relatively unspoiled status and absence of mass tourism. Amateur botanists or zoologists are going to find themselves in a real heaven full of rare plants and animals.

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244,293 INT’L TRAVELLERS VISIT GEORGIA IN APRIL

A total of 642,343 international tourist visits were registered in January-April in Georgia, posting a 233.9 increase year on year and a 52.2 recovery from the pre-pandemic figure, the Administration also said. Georgia hosted 244,293 international travellers in April, posting a 37.7 percent recovery from the pre-pandemic 2019 figure and an increase of 184.9 percent year-onyear, the Georgian National Tourism Administration announced on Wednesday. The GNTA also revealed the number included 182,381 tourist visits - marking a 52.3 percent recovery for the same period of 2019 and a 140.5 percent increase compared to the same period of last year. In April 2022, the highest number of visits were reported from the following countries: • Turkey - 35,959 visits • Russia - 33,556 visits • Armenia - 32,228 visits • Georgia (non-resident) - 20,936 visits

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• • • • • •

Israel - 15,709 visits Ukraine - 13,018 visits Azerbaijan - 11,360 visits Belarus - 7,507 visits Kazakhstan - 6,032 visits Iran - 5,994 visits

In the first four months of 2022, 820,796 international travellers visited the country, an increase of 272.3 percent compared to the same period of last year and a 36.2 percent recovery compared to 2019. A total of 642,343 international tourist visits were registered in January-April in Georgia, posting a 233.9 increase year on year and a 52.2 recovery from the prepandemic figure, the Administration also said. Source: Agenda.ge

B AT U

BAT U

WE WOULD LIKE TO INFORM YOU THAT THE 13TH INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION OF TOURISM AND HOTEL EQUIPMENT “EXPO BATUMI TRAVEL 2022” WILL BE HELD ON 13-15 MAY OF THIS YEAR, IN BATUMI. THE FAIR IS ORGANIZED BY THE GEORGIAN COMPANY “GEONET EXPO”. FAIR IS TO UNITE LOCAL AND INTERNATIONAL COMPANIES. VISITORS AND PARTICIPATING COMPANIES WILL HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO GET INFORMATION ABOUT LOCAL TOURIST DESTINATIONS, WHICH WILL HELP TO POPULARIZE OUR COUNTRY IN THE FUTURE AND INCREASE THE TOURIST FLOW.

SUPPORTERS

info@geonetexpo.ge +995 597 46 88 56

net@netorganization.net +995 599 46 88 56

+90 212 272 61 62

AJARA +90 212 355 07 53 Life Magazine

RENOVATED RAILWAY STATION TO CONNECT PASSENGERS TO KUTAISI AIRPORT IN GEORGIA’S WEST

The Kopitnari Station has undergone “complete rehabilitation” with modern standards and is tailored to the needs of people with disabilities, the company said. Georgian Railway has unveiled a renovated train station that will connect passengers between cities of the country to the Kutaisi International Airport in western Georgia.

shuttle service.

The updated Kopitnari Station will begin operating starting April 30 and serve passenger trains from different directions. The stop is located near the airport known for its cheap international flights to European countries.

The railway company recently unveiled the renovated train station connecting passengers between cities in the country to the Kutaisi International Airport. It said the Station had undergone a “complete renovation” with modern standards and was tailored to the needs of people with disabilities.

The railway company will also provide transportation from the station to the airport itself, with shuttle services taking five minutes to move passengers between the locations. Georgian Railway said the train fare would include the

Tickets for train services to the stop will be available at Georgian Railway box offices, through the company’s website, express payment machines and the websites of the railway partner companies. Source: Agenda.ge

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VILLAS

BEST VIEWS OVER MOUNTAINS, SEA AND CITY

5 127 km from Batumi

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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LEPL AJARA MUSEUM IS A UNION OF MUSEUMS

All museums have QR codes, audio (Georgian / English / Russian) QR guides, as well as Georgian, English and Russian individual guides, who will present the history of each exponent in a very interesting way.

LEPL Adjara Museum is a union of museums, which unites seven museums: Khariton Akhvlediani Museum, Batumi Archaeological Museum, Art Museum, Nobel Brothers Technological Museum, Memed Abashidze House-Museum and Museum of Religion. Most of these buildings are cultural heritage sites and almost all are located in the city center, making it easy for tourists to find the location and visit them. Exceptions are the Museum of Religion and the Nobel Brothers Technological Museum, which became famous as the Nobel Brothers’ office. The above two museums are located in Tamar settlement.

each exponent in a very interesting way.

The Khariton Akhvlediani Museum has a centuries-old history and is definitely worth a visit, its exhibition combines different themes and is very attractive to visitors. All museums have shops-salons, where visitors can buy a variety of souvenirs, as well as beautiful replicas of artifacts found during archeological excavations.

On our website it is possible to visit all museums through online tours. We try to create a desirable and pleasant environment for visitors to all museums, all museums have sitting areas, there is even a cafe next to the museum in the square next to the art museum.

All museums have QR codes, audio (Georgian / English / Russian) QR guides, as well as Georgian, English, and Russian individual guides, who will present the history of

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Our museums have long been aware of the innovations introduced in the world museum field, one of which is to turn the museum into an educational hub. Museums offer educational programs that involve interaction with each student, pupil, and kindergartener. Lectures are often held for people of all ages. Even in the conditions of the pandemic, when direct communication became impossible, we were able to adapt quickly and transfer all our activities to online platforms.

A very useful item for visitors and residents is a Museum Pass card, in case of purchasing it the visitor has the opportunity to visit all five museums. Tickets for our museum can also be purchased on the website and on Biletebi.ge.

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NEXT GROUP – A NEW WORD IN TOURISTIC RECOGNITION OF GEORGIAN COASTAL AREA ON AN INTERNATIONAL SCALE nextgroup.ge There are people who are not afraid of new challenges, risks, failures or starting all over again. Such people put maximum effort in implementing their ideas. They also have the power to convince others of the validity of their own vision of the future and ultimately achieve the result. Such people make decisions that the many think are too risky. Find new opportunities where others cannot see. They know exactly what they want and they create real values. Having gone through all these stages, our respondent is currently leading the process of implementing those values in Adjara. He is the first developer to introduce simultaneously 3 high-class brands to Georgian seaside offering 5-star brand residences to customers. We’d like to introduce Kakha Devadze, a 37-year-old financial manager, who started active work in the field of development 10 years ago and decided to set the highest standards of service in Georgia and contribute to the development of tourism in the country. As he points out, there have been many success stories and fundamental

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changes over the years. It is the fifth year that he has been managing his own development company - “Next Group”. After the first successfully completed project, the company “Next Group” has expanded the construction process to several locations in Adjara. Next is the first developer in Georgia to introduce 3 high class brands at one location in Gonio: the Whyandam Garden Hotel and the 5-star hotel residences of Whyandam and Radisson. According to Mr. Kakha, the construction of Sheraton and Radisson hotels years ago significantly changed the image of Batumi leading to better customer satisfaction. The development of tourism in Georgia has increased the demand from consumers for better services, which is why Kakha Devadze decided to offer something new to consumers. “The market is very saturated with new constructions, as if the choice is great, but the apartments no longer satisfy customers. The so-called Brand apartments in Georgia do not meet the requirements. Therefore, the attitude towards them changes. Everyone likes “Radisson” and

”

“THE MARKET IS VERY SATURATED WITH NEW CONSTRUCTIONS, AS IF THE CHOICE IS GREAT, BUT THE APARTMENTS NO LONGER SATISFY CUSTOMERS.

THE SO-CALLED BRAND APARTMENTS IN GEORGIA DO NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENTS. THEREFORE, THE ATTITUDE TOWARDS THEM CHANGES. EVERYONE LIKES “RADISSON” AND “SHERATON” !

We create the environment, we build, we follow the requirements of the brand and the brand becomes both the highest service provider and the guarantee. In short, we create a brand infrastructure resort in the first zone of the sea, where any person will live, relax and get the maximum service. “Sheraton” ! They like the concept and offered service. This is where the idea came from. Why not. I thought we should offer new standards to customers, an opportunity to become owners of real brand residences where they can receive exactly the same service that these types of hotels provide. There will be only one difference: you become the owner of “Radisson” or “Windham” residence and not just a guest. “In addition to taking care of the property, big brands also take care of rentals,” - says Kakha Devadze. How difficult was it to spark interest among brands of this scale towards a place which is quite unknown for them? Especially considering that

there is practically no 5-star brand in Gonio and you are the first. At first there were difficulties. The market mainly uses the primary effect of brands. When a brand sees that only the brand name is used and the processes are going differently, the degree of trust decreases. That’s why we also had to restore the damaged reputation of developers! At first, they were suspicious. When they saw that we were thoroughly following the standards proposed by them and we were using visual communication material not only for marketing, the direction of our collaboration changed. The level of trust is so high now that the brand is proactive in offering novelties, knowing that they are dealing with a trustworthy company.

THEY LIKE THE CONCEPT AND OFFERED SERVICE. THIS IS WHERE THE IDEA CAME FROM. WHY NOT. I THOUGHT WE SHOULD OFFER NEW STANDARDS TO CUSTOMERS, AN OPPORTUNITY TO BECOME OWNERS OF REAL BRAND RESIDENCES WHERE THEY CAN RECEIVE EXACTLY THE SAME SERVICE THAT THESE TYPES OF HOTELS PROVIDE. THERE WILL BE ONLY ONE DIFFERENCE: YOU BECOME THE OWNER OF “RADISSON” OR “WINDHAM” RESIDENCE AND NOT JUST A GUEST. “IN ADDITION TO TAKING CARE OF THE PROPERTY, BIG BRANDS ALSO TAKE CARE OF RENTALS,” - SAYS KAKHA DEVADZE.

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NEXT GROUP – A NEW WORD IN TOURISTIC RECOGNITION OF GEORGIAN COASTAL AREA ON AN INTERNATIONAL SCALE Because of global pandemic, many businesses have ceased to exist and large businesses became less active. However, Next launched new projects and new ways of collaboration exactly at this time. I wonder how you managed this and how successful the taken risk was? We saw an opportunity during the pandemic. Almost everything stopped, we were actually left alone in the market. In a way it was a challenge too and we turned that challenge into an opportunity creating a new stage. We all have one goal - quality, the highest result and service that will leave everyone satisfied and we will definitely achieve this result. I can boldly say that over the last three years, this is the first project in Georgia, which unifies simultaneous construction of three 5-star brand residences in one location. This is the beginning and the rest is yet to come. My goal is to take Adjara to the next level so that the local population can feel the results. This large-scale project will significantly improve the investment potential, visual and economic condition of Gonio.

already an important aspect. I can outline the key benefits in few points: 1. Association with international Brand - perceived as “Safe” 2. The concept of brand residence 3. Brand residence finished and equipped following the international standards 4. Well-arranged environment with developed infrastructure 5. Investment potential and income-rental system (annual income from property rental in numbers is 10-14% per year). 6. The owner of the residence is also involved in the timesharing program, which, of course, is under the brand umbrella. You can mark the date in advance on a calendar and have vacations at a residence of the same brand in another country completely free of charge. 7. And most importantly - the management company manages the process and ensures maintenance of the residences.

Besides the fact that three 5-star brand residences with full infrastructure will be arranged in Gonio, please further explain to our readers, what kind of benefits does the owner of the residence receive? First of all, collaboration with international brands is

We create the environment, we build, we follow the requirements of the brand and the brand becomes both the highest service provider and the guarantor. In a nutshell, we are creating a resort with brand infrastructure on the first line of the sea, where everyone can live, enjoy vacations and get the maximum service. We will meet all the

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nextgroup.ge challenges of the modern period. We are now working on acquiring a blue flag status for Gonio beach and marking it on a tourist map. This also happens for the first time in Georgia. Receiving blue flag means that the water is clean according to 27 international criteria and meets environmental standards. This status will take the reputation of Gonio beach to a new level. It is striking that the greenery around your property is intact and new plants are added before the construction is completed. On all constructions, yards are arranged, tiles are already in place, as if development of the infrastructure goes on in parallel. Is this also part of a new strategy? Yes indeed. Our priority is to adapt to the environment and not the other way round. We have preserved all the eucalyptus we found on the land and planted new plants, this is just the beginning. We also have a new approach in terms of arranging infrastructure. In parallel with the construction, the pool is being built, the lawns and the yard are being arranged. We are willing to improve the damaged image in this regard as well. The developers often delay or neglect development of the infrastructure. We

are not going to arrange receptions, cafes or pools after the project is completed, it is going on simultaneously and as it turns out the infrastructure is completed on the first stage. For example, the pool at Wyndham Batumi Residence will be ready this summer. In order to avoid doubts that the reception will be used for commercial purposes, it will be also done soon. We are arranging the largest reception on 240 square m. area with a 8-meter ceiling. It can be said that you are creating a high-class resort promising precision in performance which is not just a beautifully presented project with visual communication. Yes, that’s true. What you see in communication visuals in 3 D, we are building exactly the same thing. Our main goal is to reach customer satisfaction, to implement highest standards of service and to contribute to development of the seaside zone. We have and we will have even more satisfied customers who will receive real 5 star service -this is the biggest prestige and “benefit” of our company. Next Group will be the first company to be officially marked on the map of international hotels with brand residences, and this news is important not only for the company, but also for the country. AJARA Life Magazine 51

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

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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 53

DISCOVER BATUMI

CULTURAL MONUMENTS

“

An equally pleasant place for walking is the “square of Europe”, which is decorated with singing fountains and an imposing statue of “Medea with the Golden Fleece”. It is on these lands, according to legend, Jason extracted the Golden Fleece. Batumi is famous for it and its surprisingly beautiful architectural sights.

BATUMI, CULTURAL MONUMENTS

BATUMI PUPPET AND YOUTH PROFESSIONAL STATE THEATRE Since January 14, 2016, Batumi Puppet and Youth Theatre has resumed its creative activities in the reconstructed building. With supplementary floor and a summer hall added to the main structure, this historic building bears the status of the monument of cultural heritage. The institution was involved in numerous collaborations with painters and composers. Its programs were enriched and developed year by year.

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COLONNADES The idea to construct Colonnades in Batumi belongs to the local doctor Ivane Mchedlidze. He brought the project with him in 1933-1934 from a professional trip to Sorrento city, Italy. The project was completed under the supervision of Bogdan Kirakosyan, an architect from Batumi. This structure used to serve as a gate to the seashore which used to be closer to it than today. Years later, the shoreline receded and the sea moved back further from the construction. Despite this, colonnades remain one of Batumi’s most frequented landmarks and a popular meeting place in the city. You will meet similar colonnades at the entrance of Batumi Central Park.

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BATUMI ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM

ADJARA MUSEUM OF ARTS

If historical artefacts are things of your interest that Batumi Archaeological Museum is for you. There you can examine ancient cultural monuments that were unearthed on the territory of Adjara. In 2007, a permanent popular science exhibition was opened. It introduces visitors to the ancient history epochs. Since 1998, the joint expedition of Batumi Archaeological Museum and Oxford University Ashmolean Museum enriched the museum with new artefacts.

Niko Pirosmani, Lado Gudiashvili, Gigo Gabashvili, Davit Kakabazdze, Elene Akhvlediani, Merab Berdzenishvili, Rusudan Petviashvili – these names are only a small part of world-renowned Georgian painters whose works are presented in Adjara Museum of Arts. The museum building itself is a work of art and one of Batumi’s historical buildings on top of it all. Ajara Museum of Arts hosts personal, group and retrospective exhibitions as well as music and theatrical performances.

BATUMI, CULTURAL MONUMENTS

THE STATUE OF MEDEA On the Europe Square stands the statue of Medea, princess of Colchis. Created by Davit Khmaladze, the monument symbolizes the wealth and strength of the country. According to antique mythology the youngest daughter of Aeets the legendary king of Colchis fell in love with the leader of Argonauts’ crew, Jason, and helped him to steal the golden fleece. Medea had in-depth knowledge of herbs and possessed healing gifts. As the legend has it, she could rejuvenate a person which is why Medea was perceived as a goddess and temples were dedicated to her. The term ‘Medicine’ originates from the name – Medea.

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BATUMI ILIA CHAVCHAVADZE STATE THEATRE OF DRAMA Batumi Theatre of Drama which opened its doors in 1952 (Architect I. Teplitski) was named after Ilia Chavchavadze seven years later. The first theatre performance ever staged in Batumi dates back to 1879 when Zurab Antonov’s play “Has the Uncle Married?’ was performed by amateur stage actors. The venture was initiated by Batumi Policemeister’s wife, Ketevan Zhuruli. Like in other theatres of Georgia, plays were held for charity here. Those engaged in the drama art moved from building to building but hardly ever lacked the attention of the audience.

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THE NOBEL BROTHERS MUSEUM

KHARITON AKHVLEDIANI STATE MUSEUM

This museum is set up in the same building where Nobel brothers’ crude oil refinery partnership ‘Batumi Kantora’ was located around a century ago. Up to 2,000 museum exhibits depict the examples of technological innovation introduced by Nobel brothers, Rothschilds and Mantashev in Batumi, at the end of XIX and in the beginning of XX centuries. These technological artefacts mainly represent tea, tobacco and printing development dynamics in Georgia. At that time, Nobel brothers also introduced latest technologies for oil transit in Batumi.

Khariton Akhvlediani Adjara State Museum is one of the oldest museums in Georgia. It was founded in 1908 after Batumi city council approved the initiative of then Pushkin school teachers and decided to open a museum for children. The renowned scientist and public figure, Khariton Akhvlediani served as the Head of the museum in 1938-1989. This interesting museum invites visitors to three places at once: Mehmed Abashidze museum-He was a respected persona in Georgia; Personal items, documents and photos of t. Ilia Chavchavadze, Georgia’s greatest public figure; and a science library where a rich fund of old books is represented.

BATUMI, CULTURAL MONUMENTS

ETHNOGRAPHIC MUSEUM ‘BORJGALO’

ILIA CHAVCHAVADZE MUSEUM

Folk crafts and lifestyle museum which was created and founded by the native of upper Adjara, Kemal Turmanidze, is today the ethnographic museum which covers 3,000 m2. Once you get to the museum, you plunge into the old Georgian traditions. Pottery, metal, stone and wood processing, beekeeping, fruit farming, viticulture and agriculture is displayed at the level of the work process. Mannequins dressed in traditional attire, props, folk music – all this paraphernalia will animate your imagination. You can find residential, worship and agricultural buildings here too, both in the form of small models and in life-size.

Another museum worth your visit is the museum of Ilia Chavchavadze, who was one of the most distinguished sons of Georgian nation, later sanctified and declared a saint by the Georgian Orthodox Church. The writer, the publicist, the philanthropist, the public figure and the leader of Georgian national-liberation movement was shot and killed in 1907 by the opponents of the liberation of Georgia. The museum was opened in Batumi in 2001 where you can examine personal belongings of Ilia Chavchavadze and his Adjarian peers. There are 289 exhibits kept in the museum, including a table, a closet, small and big samovars (tea-kettles), a sewing machine belonging to Ilia’s wife, Olga Guramishvili and many other items.

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STORY OF BCB MEMBER

“

Наша компания - социальный экологический проект ,который нуждаемся в финансовой поддержке. Очень будем рады видеть вас в числе наших спонсоров.

Founders of “ Recycleaf ” Brand

Вероника Краветц Сергей Жандаров МЫ RECYCLEAF - ЕДИНСТВЕННАЯ КОМПАНИЯ ПО ПЕРЕРАБОТКЕ ПЛАСТИКА В БАТУМИ. МЫ ТОЛЬКО НАЧИНАЕМ СВОЙ ПУТЬ. И УЖЕ ДЕЛАЕМ ПЛАНЕТУ ЧИЩЕ, СОБИРАЯ ПЛАСТИК И ДЕЛАЯ ИЗ НЕГО НУЖНЫЕ, КРАСИВЫЕ ВЕЩИ! Экология Грузии все ещё нуждается в вашей поддержке! Ищем спонсоров и меценатов для поддержания экологического социального проекта! Мы Recycleaf - единственная компания по переработке пластика в Батуми. Мы только начинаем свой путь. И уже делаем планету чище, собирая пластик и делая из него нужные, красивые вещи! Вся упаковка, в которой мы ежедневно привыкли покупать продукты, имеет маркировку. Она обозначена цифрой в треугольнике. Наша технология позволяет переработать маркировку пластика под номером 2,4 и 5

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Из этих видов пластика делают: крышки для бутылок, полиэтиленовые пакеты, пачки из под чипсов, печенья, бутылки из под шампуней, пачки от памперсов, флаконы от бытовой химии, упаковки от йогуртов, мацони и многое другом. - Мы планируем знакомить детей и взрослых с понятием экология ,через образовательные программы и сотрудничества со школами и садами. - Наша команда волонтёров ежемесячно производит сбор мусора на пляжах, реках и в лесах Аджарии. - Мы можем сделать из пластика стильные, качественные вещи и одновременно поддерживать экологию страны.

- Мы заботимся о природе. Делаем все возможное для сохранения чистоты на Грузинской земле. Наша компания - социальный экологический проект ,который нуждаемся в финансовой поддержке. Очень будем рады видеть вас в числе наших спонсоров. Мы предлагаем разные варианты сотрудничества: - Упоминания и реклама на официальной страничке в Инстаграм. Упоминания как спонсора на буклетах и афишах, мерче и тому подобное. Мы гарантируем вам статус человека или компании поддерживающей экологический, социальный проект. - Мы предлагаем в качестве благодарности свои изделия из переработанного пластика с вашим логотипом или названием. Это может быть вывеска, предмет

интерьера, значки, магниты, аксессуары, мебель и многое другое. Наш пластик водонепроницаем, безвреден, не впитывает и не источает запахи и имеет эксклюзивную расцветку. Условия сотрудничества индивидуальны И обговариваются со спонсором заранее. Поддерживая нашу компанию и волонтёров.. Вы помогаете Грузии и планете Земля стать чище! Студия и производство находится по адресу Ахмед Мелашвили 11 По вопросам сотрудничества по телефону 599081142 или в Директ @recycleaf.ge Вероника Краветц Сергей Жандаров Спасибо за поддержку @sakhli_batumi @supbatumi @ajaralife.ge AJARA Life Magazine 63

STORY OF BCB MEMBER

“

Так же я принимала участие в различных международных фестивалях (несколько раз занимая призовые места), в международных проектах (один из которых организовала сама). Однажды я попала на обложку журнала об индустрии воздушных шаров.

Aero Designer (Balloon Artist) & Photographer

Лиана

Я – ТВОРЧЕСКИЙ ЧЕЛОВЕК. Я ПОЛУЧИЛА МУЗЫКАЛЬНОЕ ОБРАЗОВАНИЕ. НО УСПЕХА Я ДОБИЛАСЬ БУДУЧИ АЭРОДИЗАЙНЕРОМ (BALLOON ARTIST). В МОЕМ ГОРОДЕ Я ОФОРМЛЯЛА (DECORATED) СЦЕНЫ, ГОРОДСКИЕ МЕРОПРИЯТИЯ, СПОРТИВНЫЕ МЕРОПРИЯТИЯ, ДНИ РОЖДЕНИЯ, ВЫПУСКНЫЕ В ДЕТСКИХ САДАХ И УЧЕБНЫХ ЗАВЕДЕНИЯХ И Т.Д. Меня зовут Лиана. Я переехала жить в Батуми 2.5 года назад из Казахстана. Я наполовину грузинка и здесь, в Батуми, живет мой папа, которого я не знала всю мою жизнь, и нашла несколько лет назад. Мне очень хотелось узнать культуру моего народа и пожить на земле моих предков. Я – творческий человек. Я получила музыкальное образование. Но успеха я добилась будучи аэродизайнером (balloon artist). В моем городе я оформляла (decorated) сцены, городские мероприятия, спортивные мероприятия, дни

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рождения, выпускные в детских садах и учебных заведениях и т.д. Так же я принимала участие в различных международных фестивалях (несколько раз занимая призовые места), в международных проектах (один из которых организовала сама). Однажды я попала на обложку журнала об индустрии воздушных шаров. А в последние годы перед переездом в Грузию начала преподавать. Так сложилось, что мой переезд в Грузию практически совпал с началом пандемии. К моему

“

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!

огромному сожалению, отсутствие рынка воздушных шаров в Грузии и пандемия вынудили меня полностью остановить мою (надувательскую) деятельность. Но я не опустила руки. И за время пандемии я закончила несколько фотокурсов, и последний год я профессионально занимаюсь фотографией. Стать фотографом было относительно легко для меня. Классические творческие

приемы, креативное мышление и опыт работы с людьми очень помогли мне. Сейчас я снимаю портреты и предметку (object photography), увлекаюсь макросъемкой. Мне очень нравится моя новая профессия, я планирую и дальше развиваться в фотографии. И может быть однажды смогу совместить обе свои профессии.

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”

”

Талантливые люди в Сахли. До скорых встреч дома... ...дома, где всегда тепло, уютно и... всегда-всегда горит свет в окне

Наше пространство особенно тем, что позволяет всем желающим выразить свои чувства через искусство. Художники, музыканты, вокалисты, артисты, сценаристы, режиссеры, танцоры, поэты и многие другие. Наши двери всегда открыты. Мы рады поддержать и помочь всем, чем сможем. Для творчества в любом его проявлении всегда найдется место в Сахли ‼ главное ‼ придерживаться и подчеркивать главную цель и идею нашего общего дома - это единство, уважение, искренность и простота. Наша команда состоит из очень приветливых, дружелюбных и креативных людей. Хочется поблагодарить всех и каждого, кто причастен к существованию Сахли и благодаря которому наш

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проект становится лучше каждый день. До скорых встреч дома... ...дома, где всегда тепло, уютно и... всегда-всегда горит свет в окне 1. Логотип Сахли (Logo Sakhli) Автор @risha951 2. Кухня Сахли (Kitchen Sakhli) Автор @ekaterina_malakhaeva 3. Зал Сахли (Sakhli hall) Автор @buto4ka @zelenkastudio 4. Дизайн Интерьера Сахли (Interior design of Sakhli) Автор @sofo.shetsiruli 5. Двор Сахли (The yard of Sakhli) Автор @marjellow 6. Подарки для Сахли (Gifts for Sakhli) Автор @lovely.cataleya.shop

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Welcome To

Mestia

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Mestia, the main regional center of Zemo (upper) Svaneti, is situated 456 km from Georgia’s capital city, Tbilisi, and is 1,500 meters above sea level. It is the starting point for most trips to Svaneti, with a range of hotels, guesthouses and local travel services, and makes a convenient base for exploring the area. From the center of Mestia it is possible to hike up to the glaciers at the foot of mount Ushba, or take horses into the pristine alpine mead-

“

MESTIA IS A CITY IN UPPER SVANETI, GEORGIA. IT’S THE REGIONAL CAPITAL.

ows. A new ski resort makes it possible to ski or snowboard even in the height of summer. Tourists interested in religious history will find plenty of examples of wall paintings, frescoes and icons from the Middle Ages in the churches around Mestia. Within Mestia, the Church of Saint George contains well-preserved crosses and icons from the XII century. Additionally, Pusdi Church still contains fragments of XIII century wall paintings. AJARA Life Magazine 71

Mestia HOW CAN GET IN ?

There are four to five villages next to a mountain.

GET IN

By plane A new airport in Mestia - Queen Tamar Airport - has recently opened, and flights between Mestia and Tbilisi are now available 5 times a week for 125 lari (including transfer to Tbilisi if flying from Mestia) each way. Reserve tickets at least a week in advance. By train From Tbilisi to Zugdidi by night train, then take a 72 AJARA Life Magazine

marshrutka (minibus) from Zugdidi train station to Mestia. Ticket price around 45 - 55 GEL (2022). Duration 3-4 hours. By bus Tbilisi - Mestia marshrutkas (mini buses) go every day from “Vagzali” bus station. Number of seats 16, ticket price 45 Gel per person. Departure time : 5:00 am. Duration 8-9 hours (depends on the weather conditions). Mestia-Tbilisi mini bus leaves at 7am and 8am. It is possible to book beforehand through hotels and agencies in the center of town. Only one (maximum 2) marshrutka goes

to Zugdidi at 6 a.m. and around midday. Costs 35 lari There are also marshrytki to Batumi. From Zugdidi, just go to the train station (all the mashrutkas are there) and try to find the Mestia sign on a small shop (or ask around). They leave every time the mini bus is full and it costs 35 GEL (you can say it’s 25 GEL and they usually say OK). From Kutaisi there’s a daily morning mini-bus from the main bus station (near McDonalds). It has no definite schedule and departs when full. Try to come early, by 9am it might already

be gone. In this case, however, you can catch marshrutka to Zugdidi (20 Gel, July’2021). Ask the driver to drop you off at the mini-bus to Mestia. Be prepared to wait for some time until the bus if full. This second leg of the trip will cost you another 35 lari. By car A new highway from Zugdidi to Mestia has been opened and the trip has become safe and comfortable by public or private transport. (Drive off-road cars with high attention if you are not an experienced driver). A taxi cost 150 - 175 GEL from Zugdidi to Mestia and can hold four people. AJARA Life Magazine 73

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 ......................................... Saavadmkofo 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 74 AJARA Life Magazine

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AJARA Life Magazine 75

KAKHETI PROVINCE TO HOST CHARITY RUN FOR UKRAINE NEXT MONTH

Organised by the International Foundation of Sport, Tourism and Youth, the race - entitled Run for Ukraine - will start on June 5 on the Telavi-Kvareli highway, with participants taking the start at a spot where the road leading to Lopota Lake from the highway originates. A charity competition involving Ukrainian citizens, Georgian athletes and ordinary citizens will take place in Georgia’s eastern Kakheti province next month, the International Foundation of Sport, Tourism and Youth announced on Friday. Organised by the Foundation, the race - entitled Run for Ukraine - will start on June 5 on the Telavi-Kvareli highway, with participants taking the start at a spot where the road leading to Lopota Lake from the highway originates. Those joining the race will compete over a 10-kilometre

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stretch, while various other sports, entertainment events and an exhibition of handicrafts made by Ukrainian children will also be included in the programme for the charity. Organisers said registration for the event would be open until June 4, with the run limited to 5,000 participants and featuring a 30GEL ($9.93/€9.39) entry fee. Money raised from the fees will be donated to the Ukrainian families affected by war. Participants must buy tickets on www.biletebi.ge. Source: Agenda.ge

AJARA Life Magazine 77

Here, Chef Elene shares her recipe for DOLMA – CABBAGE LEAVES. (Georgian: კომბოსტოს ტოლმა), known as Dolma in Armenia, Azerbaijan and Turkey, is a popular meal in Georgia and many other countries and there are many variations.

DOLMA CABBAGE LEAVES

კომბოსტოს ტოლმა

It usually describes a filled, hollowed-out vegetable or a filling wrapped in a leaf. Vegetables used to contain a filling include tomato, eggplant, pepper, apple and zucchini. Leaf wrappings include vine and cabbage.

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So, prepare your apron and kitchen tools and here we go: TOLMA ( DOLMA ) – CABBAGE LEAVES Ingredients (up to 20 Dolmas): 1 medium size cabbage, 300 grams of ground beef/pork mix, 80 grams of rice, 2 cloves of garlic (we used 1 very large one), 2 large onions, 2 large tomatoes, 3 table spoons of sour cream, 3 bay leaves, black pepper, 1 tsp of blue fenugreek, 1 tsp of dried coriander, salt and 30 ml of oil.

Instructions Add the garlic and all spices and salt to a mortar and crush with a pestle. Cut the tomatoes into medium slices and add to a mixing bowl with half of the crushed garlic and spice mixture, a bay leaf and sour cream. Mix all ingredients with a spoon, ensuring that the sour cream is thoroughly mixed in. Then add half a liter of water and 1 tbs of oil and mix again. When finished, put the bowl to one side. Boil the rice in salty water, being careful not to over-boil it. Chop and fry the onions in oil. Add the cooked rice and onions to a mixing bowl. Add the meat and the remaining half of the crushed garlic and spice mixture. Mix all ingredients well. Boil water in a deep (preferably a cast iron) pan, add 1 tbs of salt and add the cabbage. Leave in the water for 5 minutes. The aim is to soften the cabbage leaves not boil them. Rotate the cabbage to enable all of the leaf area to soften. Remove the cabbage from the pan and carefully peel off the leaves. Place 1.5 tbs of the mixture in each leaf and Wrap the sides of the leaf around the mixture. Line a deep pot with cabbage leaves to form a ‘nest’ that will protect the rolled up leaves and carefully place the rolled up tolma in the ‘nest’. Cover the rolled up tolma with more cabbage leaves and cover with a bowl. Weight the bowl – we used a heavy pestle. Pour in the tomato and sour cream mixture and cover the pot. Boil the ingredients and then allow to simmer for 50 minutes. It may need a little longer (depending on the cabbage). The stuffed cabbage leaves should be served hot or warm. Georgians eat them with sour cream.

Bon appetit! AJARA Life Magazine 79

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