Ajara Life Magazine, Issue 15

T h e c o m p l ex i s l o c a te d o n a h i l l i n o n e of t h e m ost p i c t u resq u e p l a c es of B a t u m i o n t h e wa y to t h e fa m o u s S a m e b a Te m p l e.

T h e c o m p l ex h a s a n o p e n v i ew of t h e s i g h ts of t h e c i t y, a n d a n i n c re d i b l e p a n o ra m a of t h e se a a n d m o u n ta i n s. T h e ro a d ta kes o n l y 5 m i n u tes by c a r f ro m t h e o l d B a t u m i .

Batumi mall Batumi mall

Let’s Discover Ajara!

Ajara Life Magazine

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

Founder & CEO

AJARA, SKI TOURISM

A range of options is available for skiing enthusiasts in Adjara. At an altitude of 2000 – 2500, the climate is humid here, winter relatively cold and long while summer is short and cool. In the highlands of Adjara construction of ski resorts are undergoing intensively.

They are not only suitable for winter sports aficionados but offer healthcare and recreational conditions on all seasons of the year. Ski resort ‘Goderdzi’, located 2350m above sea level, has already been opened, receiving over 20 000 guests per year. Winter stands out by heavy snowfalls here, which stay on the ground until the end of March. January

is the coldest month and August-the warmest on the resort. Goderdzi is one of the ‘youngest’ ski resorts in Georgia which was officially opened by the ‘Mountain Resorts Development Company’ on December 5, 2015. Because Goderdzi is abundant in the snow, the skiing season opens relatively early and ends late, compared to other ski resorts. Beautiful views, clean air, well-groomed skiing trails attract many skiers. Amongst those, who are keen on crossing unmarked snow, the untouched, snowy slopes of the resort evoke excitement.

The ski season starts on Goderdzi in early December. Its ski-trail length is 8 km, with two types of cable roads-one with a cab that accommodates 8 people and another a bubble which takes in 6 people.

You can rent a ski, a sled or a snowboard here, as well as an instructor’s service.

The ski season starts on Goderdzi in early December. Its ski-trail length is 8 km, with two types of cable roads-one with a cab that accommodates 8 people and another a bubble which takes in 6 people. You can rent a ski, a sled or a snowboard here, as well as an instructor’s service.

Soon the resort will accommodate 7000 skiers, allowing services at comfortable winter cottages, and hotels. Visitors will be able to enjoy good infrastructure,

and cable cars there. The season on the resort continues even after the snow melts. Summers are for hiking, horse riding, and cycling here.

In case of pre-order one can enjoy paragliding as well. Close by the resort, there is a favourite place of hikers – Green Lake. Apart from Goderdzi other mountain resorts such as Gomarduli, Qedlebi, and Beshumi will provide cordial hospitality to their guests as well.

( Source: gobatumi.com )

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.

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.

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.

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)

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.

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.

Those who are just learning to ski, can go to Bakuriani, where the slopes are more gentle. This resort has well-developed infrastructure for a vacation with family and children: while you improve your skills or taste the whole variety of culinary delicacies and famous Georgian wine, your children can enjoy the attention of professional skiing instructors or experienced nurses.

Gudauri is a cool place for fans of steep slopes, freeride and heli-skiing. Those who look for thrilling experiences and want to enjoy the mountain views from the highest points can go paragliding and speedriding. On the other hand, in Gudauri there is also a place for those who just want to get out of town, get some fresh air, take a steam bath, drink mulled wine or taste Georgian brandies and chacha.

Svanetian resorts, Hatsvali and Tetnuldi, are relatively young compared to Bakuriani and Gudauri. It is better to reach both places from Mestia, the central village of Svaneti. New lifts, steep slopes and crazily beautiful views will make you enjoy every moment. These mountains are higher than the Alps! Totally worth going.

Ajara region, traditionally famous for sea, sun, nightlife and boat-like khachapuri, now also boasts with a new snow resort, Goderdzi. Well, khachapuri is always delicious, dancing in trendy places or trying your luck in casino is possible anytime, but skiing so close to the coast is possible only in the wintertime.

So, whatever you would prefer for your winter holidays, can be found in Georgia. You are always welcome!

WHITE RESORTS OF GEORGIA

Georgia becomes more and more attractive in terms of winter sports and adventure holidays. Skiers and snowboarders of all levels can have a great time at the winter resorts of our country.

Those who are just learning to ski, can go to Bakuriani, where the slopes are more gentle. This resort has well-developed infrastructure for a vacation with family and children: while you improve your skills or taste the whole variety of culinary delicacies and famous Georgian wine, your children can enjoy the attention of professional skiing instructors or experienced nurses.

Gudauri is a cool place for fans of steep slopes, freeride and heli-skiing. Those who look for thrilling experiences and want to enjoy the mountain views from the highest points can go paragliding and speedriding. On the other hand, in Gudauri there is also a place for those who just want to get out of town, get some fresh air, take a steam bath, drink mulled wine or taste Georgian brandies and chacha.

Svanetian resorts, Hatsvali and Tetnuldi, are relatively young compared to Bakuriani and Gudauri. It is better to reach both places from Mestia, the central village of Svaneti. New lifts, steep slopes and crazily beautiful views will make you enjoy every moment. These mountains are higher than the Alps! Totally worth going.

Ajara region, traditionally famous for sea, sun, nightlife and boat-like khachapuri, now also boasts with a new snow resort, Goderdzi. Well, khachapuri is always delicious, dancing in trendy places or trying your luck in casino is possible anytime, but skiing so close to the coast is possible only in the wintertime.

So, whatever you would prefer for your winter holidays, can be found in Georgia. You are always welcome!

(Source: Georgia.Travel)

WHITE RESORTS OF GEORGIA

FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENTS IN ADJARA REGION TOTAL $106MLN, SAYS REGIONAL GOV’T HEAD

Georgia’s Black Sea region of Adjara received $106 million in foreign direct investments in the first nine months of 2022, Tornike Rizhvadze, the Head of the Government of Adjara, said in his end-of-year summary of his office’s work on Thursday.

Local media outlet Interpressnews cited Rizhvadze noting the real estate sector, transport and processing industry had seen the largest share of FDI during the year.

He also said the regional Government paid “a lot of attention” to the development of tourist infrastructure, and announced a new landscape park had been approved for the Machakhela locality, 30 km from regional capital Batumi, for contributing to the development of tourism in the region.

We continue to build tourism infrastructure, which will ultimately further strengthen the importance of the protected area of Machakhela, both from the tourist and economic points of view”, he said.

Rizhvadze mentioned next year’s regional budget would reach GEL535 million ($201.91mln), with the budget set at GEL300 million ($113.22mln) for Batumi and GEL54 million ($20.38mln) for the city of Kobuleti. He said the

budgets would “allow us to implement many important projects”.

“Construction of road [and] tourism infrastructure will be actively continued. Natural gas and water supply projects of mountainous Adjara are no less important”, the regional Government Head pointed out.

“Six new kindergartens will be built in Batumi. We are actively continuing to work on the Emergency Houses programme, and in this direction 10 new residential blocks will be built to enable approximately 1,000 families currently living in emergency conditions to continue their lives safely”, Rizhvadze said.

Batumi public bus fleet will continue to be updated, Rizhvadze also revealed, adding 60 new buses would be introduced in the city next year and allow for a “full update” of the city transportation fleet by the end of 2023.

Up to 55,000 individuals will benefit from the planned healthcare and social programmes next year in Batumi, he said, adding projects in the region’s Khelvachauri municipality would see the opening of new social houses and kindergartens, in addition to renovation of “all administrative centres”.

Source: Agenda.ge

Georgia’s Black Sea region of Adjara received $106 million in foreign direct investments in the first nine months of 2022, Tornike Rizhvadze, the Head of the Government of Adjara, said in his end-of-year summary of his office’s work on Thursday.

THE ONE DRINK YOU NEED TO KNOW AND TRY, WHEN VISITING GEORGIA

Chacha is a Georgian pomace brandy, a clear and strong (ranging between 40% alcohol for commercially produce to 65% for home brew), which is sometimes called “wine vodka”, “grape vodka”, or “Georgian vodka/grappa”. It is made of grape pomace (grape residue left after making wine). The term chacha is used in Georgia to refer to grape distillate. It may be also produced from unripe or wild grapes.

Georgian chacha Nestled in the heart of the Caucasus region of Eurasia between the Black Sea and the Greater Caucasus Mountain Range, Georgia has a climate that is perfect for grape cultivation. One of the world’s oldest wine producing regions, grapes are thought to have first appeared in the country as far back nearly 8,000 years. Grape cultivation and wine making are therefore a significant part of Georgia’s history and culture, and continue to play a vital role in the country’s economy. It is not only a rich diversity in wine, however, that Georgia’s vineyards are famous for. Grape cultivation and wine production have also resulted in the development of “chacha” Georgia’s traditional national drink.

Chacha is made from grape skins, or pomace, leftover

from wine production. The skins are a byproduct that most modern wineries toss out, but Georgia cherishes grape skins.

The drink is everywhere in Georgia, from commercial versions in stores, to homemade chachas on dinner tables.

Where to drink chacha in Batumi: Georgia has excellent wine shops, and there are many fancy restaurants to taste artisan chacha if you’re looking for something higher end. one of the best place to drinking best quality of chacha and learning how drinking, it’s “Chacha Time” (5 Giorgi Mazniashvili St, Batumi), one of the old and popular bar in old town of Batumi.

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.

© 2016 United Parcel Service of America, Inc. All rights reserved.

© 2016 United Parcel Service of America, Inc. All rights reserved.

ABOUT ONE WALL OF THE MUSEUM “I LIKE TO DRAW BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE” LADO GUDIASHVILI

Everyone knows that museum is a Greek word (μουσείο[ν]) and means the temple of the Muses. Muse often likes to visit at night, and that is why it is difficult for a daytime visitor to notice her. And I notice everything...... I often come virtually at night and toured the exhibition hall of the museum named after Khariton Akhvlediani, and I paid special attention to one large and wide white wall. The muses of a great artist are depicted here, and that’s why no one can ignore this beauty, the paintings of the famous Georgian artist Lado Gudiashvili are exhibited here.

Dear readers, I would like to give you some information from the life of Lado Gudiashvili - Lado Gudiashvili was born in Tbilisi on March 30, 1896 in the family of a railway worker. He studied at Tbilisi Painting and Sculpture School of Fine Arts in 1910-1914. In 1914, his first drawings were printed in the magazine

“In Theatre & in Life”. In 1916, together with other figures, he founded the Society of Georgian Artists.

In 1917, he participated in the expedition to South Georgia organized by Ekvtime Takaishvili - he got acquainted with Georgian monuments and photographed frescoes. In 1919, he participated in the painting of the “Khimerion” restaurant in the exhibition organized by the Society of Georgian Artists in Tbilisi, where he exhibited more than 70 works.

In 1919-1926, he studied in Paris under E. Ronson “In the Free Academy”. Participated in exhibitions in Paris, Belgium, America and other countries. In 1922 and 1925, he held personal exhibitions in Paris. The press widely covered his work. In 1925, a book about Gudiashvili was published in Paris,his works were purchased by private collectors,and even got displayed at Prado Museum in Madrid.

In 1972-1978, the Ministry of Culture of Adjara purchased the works of Lado Gudiashvili for the museum:

• Farming girls

• Funny friends

• A girl with a smile

• A girl and apple tree

• Beauties and charms

• Fascinated by tenderness

These works also include graphic works. The members of the artist’s family say that the artist never took away his pencil and carried it with him all the time. Everything he saw around him, all his ideas were transferred to paper by means of a line.

He had an amazing handwriting - he conveyed his

Lado Gudiashvili was born in Tbilisi on March 30, 1896 in the family of a railway worker. He studied at Tbilisi Painting and Sculpture School of Fine Arts in 1910-1914.

ideas with airiness and lightness. Artist Lado Gudiashvili especially for his personal exhibition in Batumi created a canvas “Girls in Columns”, which was presented to the Khariton Akhvlediani Museum by the Ministry of Culture of Adjara.

You will be surprised by the reality of Lado Gudiashvili’s sketches...... Georgian women are beautiful, it is their beauty, high neck, delicate fingers that Lado Gudiashvili painted virtuoso.

I love to draw beautiful people!

These words belong to the 20th century Georgian artist Lado Gudiashvili.

Inga Gogiberidze 2022. June 21

Dear readers, I would like to give you some information from the life of Lado Gudiashvili.

ACTIVITIES & NATURE IN BATUMI BOULEVARD

Batumi Boulevard is the main and most visited sightseeing of the city. The recreation zone, which at the same time is a cultural heritage monument, for centuries, has unites the city’s guests or native inhabitants.

It involves a seven-kilometer seaside promenade, 4 historic alleys, bike path, and more than 40 thousand tree-plants planted at different times on the area. Batumi Boulevard, with its historical meaning and continuous development cycle, became a visiting card of our city where everyone finds their place.

TENNIS COURTS VETERAN’S CLUB

An open air tennis court of European standards has been functioning in the boulevard already for years.

The tennis court hosts international tournaments. Therefore, you can often watch sportsmen training. If you want to engage into some physical activities while in Batumi, we advise you to visit tennis court and try your hand at tennis being surrounded by a beautiful scenery.

In 2004 the Veteran’s club was opened in Batumi named after Nona Gaprindashvili, the world five-time champion in chess from Georgia.

It is a gathering place for the veterans of Batumi who regardless the weather play chess, backgammon and discuss important matters here.

The positive vibes coming from the experienced veterans, their vintage style of dressing and abundance of canes will definitely put a smile on your face.

Maybe they will even challenge you to try some games.

EXERCISING FACILITIES

YACHT CLUB

Batumi Boulevard tries to promote healthy lifestyle. After indulging yourself into Georgian cuisine if you decide to burn calories, you can have some exercises on the fresh air on an open air exercising facilities set up throughout the boulevard.

BIKE STATIONS

Throughout the city you can find 23 bike stations, majority of which are located on the territory of the boulevard. You can purchase a special so called Velo card in a tourism information center which gives you a chance to use comfortable bicycles and enjoy a beautiful ride in the boulevard.

ALLEY OF MAGNOLIAS

The first alley of the Old Boulevard is known as the Alley of Magnolias.Stretching over a kilometer and boasting Magnolias of different sizes, it is the first alley after Ninoshvili Street. For over three centuries, Magnolias have been planting on the territory of the boulevard enchanting the visitors with its mind blowing scent.

A yacht club is located nearby a panoramic wheel. Fans of extreme activities can rent a paraglide here and enjoy stunning views of the Black sea from the above. In addition, here you can rent small cozy yachts to have a nice trip on the black sea.

ZOO CORNER

Batumi Boulevard boasts diversity of flora and fauna. A zoo corner located in the heart of the boulevard houses more than 140 species. Let us introduce you to the real star of the zoo corner, a 15-year-old pelican called Bebero (old) who is always ready to interact with guests and pose for photos. Just call his name Bebero.

ALLEY OF PALMS

In Batumi you can easily find a subtropical ever-green palm trees.The development of a dedicated palm alley in the Batumi Boulevard started in 2003 and was finalized in 2006.

The palm alley stretches along the coastline for over 4.7 kilometers.

ACTIVITIES & NATURE IN BATUMI BOULEVARD

TROPICAL SQUARE JAPANESE GARDEN

UKRAINIAN SQUARE

On the old boulevard, near the alphabet tower, a space created with new tropical trees was arranged. The new tropical square, which is an additional attraction for the old boulevard, is cultivated on an area of 2300 sq.m., where more than 1500 roots of various types of tropical and subtropical plants have been planted. These include Strelitzia, Bamboo, Flax, Banana Trees, Dihondres, Cordylinins, Santolina, Pampas, Palma Yucca, etc. In the tropical square, it is planned to mulch plants and arrange decorative lighting in the near future.

In 1970-ies the writer from Batumi Amiran Shervashidze had an idea to set up a square of prominent poets and novelists in Batumi Boulevard. With this intent, he brought the busts of Lesya Ukrainka and Taras Shevchenko from Ukraine. The busts were located nearby the colonnades leading to the creation of the Ukrainian square. Ukrainian literature’s foremost woman writer, Lesya Ukrainka had special ties with Georgia spending last years of her life here. As it is known, she also visited Batumi few times.

PINE FOREST IN BATUMI BOULEVARD

The Japanese garden is set up stretching over 1020 sq.m. nearby the university building. The garden features a miniature lake, decorative bridge and plants typical for the Eastern culture. Finding the Japanese garden is quite easy thanks to red Japanese style entrance gates.

2500 pine trees grow near the coastal line in Batumi Boulevard. Pine trees are renewed annually with new seedlings, where mainly coastal and black pine varieties are planted. The pine alley plays a special health-improving role in the green space of the boulevard and is distinguished by its healing properties along with the sea and mountain climate.

•

• Skiing instructor - 45 GEL per hour

• Transfer from Batumi to Khulo 50 - 75 GEL / from Khulo to Goderdzi- 70 - 100 GEL

• Transfer from Danisparauli to the ski resort - 5 - 20 GEL

How to get to the ski resort “Goderdzi”?

• You can get to Khulo center by public transport from Batumi.

The bus departs from Batumi bus station every day. (Bus station address: 1, Mayakovskii St. ( Fare - 5 GEL )

• From the Tourist Information Center in Khulo. Transport departs every day from the Information Center on the following schedule:

> From Khulo to Goderdzi: at 11:00

> From Goderdzi to Khulo: at 16:00

> Address: Khulo, M. Abashidze St. (near cable way)

( Fare: 15 - 20 GEL )

• It is also possible to hire a vehicle (4x4 Car) in the center of Khulo, Batumi or Kobuleti. Car rental cost is 300 - 400 GEL from Batumi to Goderdzi, 150 - 200 GEL from Khulo to Goderdzi.

BAKURIANI

white resort of georgia

SKI RESORTS IN GEORGIA BOAST WITH VARIOUS KIND OF SLOPES AND HAVE DIFFERENT AIR. IF YOU WANT TO IMPROVE YOUR CHILDREN’S HEALTH AND TEACH THEM SKIING OR SNOWBOARDING (OR MAYBE LEARN IT YOURSELF), THEN YOU SHOULD HEAD TO BAKURIANI, WHERE THE SLOPES ARE NOT STEEP AND THE AIR IS SATURATED WITH SMELL OF PINES. THIS IS ONE OF THE BEST PLACES FOR CHILDREN AND FAMILIES IN ANY SEASON, AND WINTER IS NO EXCEPTION.

Located at 1,700 m in the Borjomi region of Georgia, Bakuriani is nestled in the shadows of the breathtaking Caucasus Mountains, only a three-hour drive from Tbilisi.

Home to dozens of alpine slopes and cross-country trails, it offers some of the most spectacular skiing and snowboarding in Europe.

Originally developed as an Olympic training facility, unsurprisingly, Bakuriani is Georgia’s most popular winter sports and recreation destination.

Enjoy the downhill ski runs, cross-country trails, horseback tours, sledding or simply take long walks through beautiful snowy forests.

There are several main trails in Bakuriani: Kokhta 2 (2,255 m high) is known as Tatra. Twenty-five is an area of easy skiing located on the Circular, near the old 25 meter ski-jump which gives the area its name. Here beginners and children can learn to ski in a safe and pleasant environment, surrounded by the might Caucasus mountains. You can also toboggan and sledge here, or take a horse drawn sleigh- ride through the ancient forests.

Didveli has one on the most amazing trails. From here you can catch a gondola to the slopes of Mt. Sakvelo, and ski a range of blue and red routes. The longest piste is around 4 km long. Advanced skiers can continue further up the mountain by catching a chairlift at the top of the gondola to almost the very top of Mt. Sakvelo itself. Here, you can enjoy stretching your ski-legs on very steep and difficult red and black runs.

Other activities:

Bakuriani’s cross-country trails attract experts as well as beginners. Two of the most challenging runs begin on Mt. Kokhta (2,155 m) and Mt. Didveli.

The hills and valleys around Bakuriani are ideal for snowmobiling, but if you prefer to get around the old-fashioned way, horse- drawn sleighs are the traditional mode of winter transportation in Bakuriani, so for a romantic treat, take a romantic sleigh-ride around the picturesque village.

If skating is your winter pastime, Bakuriani offers plenty of opportunities, among them at Bakuriani Park and the rink at the Hotel Edem.

Guide services, including renting single and double-seat snowmobiles, are available through many hotels and shops.

(Source: Georgia.Travel)

GUDAURI white resort of georgia

Gudauri is the best ski resort in Georgia with well-developed infrastructure, the greatest difference in altitude, and unlimited possibilities for freeride and back country (ski touring).

The resort is the highest settlement on the Georgian Military Road (the old name “Heavenly Gorge”) at the altitude of 2000 m. The season in Gudauri begins in late December and lasts till the end of April. From Tbilisi Gudauri can be reached in approximately 2 hours.

Ski rental are located in several places: in the village of Lower Gudauri, and in the Upper Gudauri, near the station. 5 chair lifts (Doppelmayr, Austria) and one line of gondolas (POMA, France) makes available skiing and

snowboarding along the southern slopes (57 km certified trails of various difficulty levels) at the altitude from 3250 m to 2000 m, with altitude difference of 1275 meters.

Freeride is possible both along the trails near the ski lifts and in the neighboring area along the western and eastern slopes of the mountains Chrdili, Bidara and the northern slopes of Mt. Sadzele (Kobi Gorge). Adrenaline seekers also have the chance to try paragliding, speedriding (an extreme mix of skiing and paragliding) and heli-skiing.

In Gudauri you can stay in cottages and hotels of different categories. Besides skiing and snowboarding enjoy spa treatment, take a steam bath, play billiard and bowling, try a wide range of Georgian wines.

For travelers with children there are children’s corners, playgrounds, ski school. Also there are nannies and instructors services available on spot.

For those who are interested in not just a ski holiday, but also cultural exploration and nightlife, we have something interesting here (LINK).

Useful links: Ski school for adults and children: www.skigudauri.ge

Heli-skiing: www.heliski.travel

Speedride school: www.speedride-school.com

Freeride school: www.wildguru.com/tour/freeride_school

Skitour school: www.wildguru.com/tour/skitour_school

Paragliding: www.flycaucasus.com

(Source: Georgia.Travel)

WINTER IN GEORGIA

Georgian winter is an attractive season for all: doesn’t matter if you are into relaxing or active vacation, enjoy either snow or dry warm weather. In any case you will find a good option for you and your family.

Ski resorts in Georgia boast with various kind of slopes and have different air. If you want to improve your children’s health and teach them skiing or snowboarding (or maybe learn it yourself), then you should head to Bakuriani,

where the slopes are not steep and the air is saturated with smell of pines. This is one of the best places for children and families in any season, and winter is no exception.

Family excursions can be fascinating, if you go to Imereti, where you can find two interesting caves. In one of them, Sataplia, there are preserved dinosaur footprints! Isn’t it a great attraction for every curious child?

Hiking and Trekking Mountaineering Caving Hunting and Fishing Paragliding White Resorts Skiing & Snowboarding

The Black Sea coast is also attractive in its own way this season. Mild climate, winter sea, fresh fish, flavourful coffee Batumi style, evergreen Botanical Garden, trips to mountainous Ajara, cycling, sunsets on the coast… Start the new year like this could be a great idea!

Tbilisi and Kakheti wine houses are always happy to welcome guests in the wintertime. There is no seasonality for things like hospitality, interesting stories, wine and good food. So come to Georgia this winter to warm up yourself and your family with these emotions!

SKIING & SNOWBOARDING

BAKURIANI

Located at an altitude of 1,700 m. in the Borjomi region of Georgia, Bakuriani is nestled in the shadows of the breathtaking Caucasus Mountains, which is only a three-hour drive from Tbilisi.

Bakuriani perched high on a sunny plateau in the center of Caucasus Mountains, promises to deliver an unique charm and essential skiing experience for both professionals and amateurs as well.

Home to dozens of alpine slopes and cross-country trails, Bakuriani offers some of the most spectacular skiing and snowboarding in Europe.

Originally developed as an Olympic training facility, unsurprisingly, Bakuriani is Georgia’s most popular and prominent winter sports and recreation destination. Enjoy the downhill ski runs, cross-country trails, horseback tours, sledding or simply take long walks through beautiful snowy forests.

Kokhtagora

Kokhtagora is located at an altitude of 2,155 m. and is served by a two-seat chair lift and two drag lifts- the so called Bugels. Red and black runs are located here and descend from the top of the peak down to the mid-level cable car, where blue runs and beginners nursery slopes can be found.

Kokhta 2 (Tatra)

The mountain of Kokhta 2 (2,255 meters high) is known in Bakuriani as Tatra. The red and blue pistes here run for 1.8 km.

25 meter

Twenty-five is an area of easy skiing located on the Circular, near the old 25-meter ski-jump which gives the area its name. Here beginners and children can learn to ski in a safe and pleasant environment, surrounded by the mighty Caucasus Mountains. You can also toboggan and sledge here, or take a horse drawn sleigh-ride through the ancient forests.

GUDAURI

Located in the very heart of the Caucasus Mountains, Gudauri is surrounded by some of the Europe’s most dramatic peaks. While Gudauri is unrivaled in the diversity and challenges of its terrain, it is a top destination to unravel your skiing hidden talents. Gudauri is a resort for all seasons. Only a short drive from the Capital city of Tbilisi and even a shorter helicopter flight will eventually let you discover the magic of Georgian picturesque mountains. Gudauri is Georgia’s year-round playground.

During the ski season, which usually starts from mid-December lasting up to mid-April, it offers a full scope of services for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. So feel the sun on your face and the powder under your feet for the region can lay claim to 19 kms of ski pistes. True professionals will want to sample some of the most challenging off-peak slopes in Europe.

WINTER IN GEORGIA

WINTER IN GEORGIA

Didveli

Didveli, at one of Europe’s highest mountains, Mount Sakvelo, holds one on the most picturesque views. From here you can catch a gondola to the slopes of Mount Sakvelo, and ski down on a range of blue and red routes. The longest piste here stretches to around 4 km. Advanced skiers can continue further up the mountain by catching a chairlift at the top of the gondola to almost the very top of Mt Sakvelo itself. Here, you can enjoy stretching your ski-legs on very steep and difficult red and black runs.

Skiing

With dozens of slopes, Gudauri has pistes for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. Besides that, the surrounding mountains are a haven for cross-country and off-piste skiers. Moreover, the highly modern three and four-seat chairlifts ensure a minimum of waiting time with a maximum of efficiency in order to transport skiers up to the Kudebi Mountain, which is located at an altitude of 3,000m. As for some of the experienced skiers Gudauri

provides four FIS approved types of run: slalom, giant slalom, super slalom and speed skiing. So carve your way up to the heart of Caucasus mountain region, and indulge yourself in an unforgettable experience.

Cross Country skiing

The remote valleys and untouched foothills around Gudauri offer an exceptional cross-country skiing, just a short distance from Gudauri’s groomed trails and ski lifts. Hiring a guide lets you get the most out of the area and to explore the thrill of fresh virgin snow. Heli-skiing Gudauri has some of the finest high altitude powder in Europe, offering virtually unrestricted access up to 4,200 meters.

Our fleets of helicopters transport skiers and their guides to remote peaks for some of the most challenging skiing found anywhere in the world. So depending on your cross country skiing ability and desire, there’s a cross-country experience waiting for you here in Gudauri!

SKIING & SNOWBOARDING

Ski School

The Gudauri Ski School offers lessons and courses to beginners of all ages. But even advanced skiers can improve their skiing techniques with a fresh lesson every now and then.

Ski Rental

The rental of new, modern ski equipment is available in Gudauri through ski schools, local intermediaries and hotels.

Rescue and First Aid

All of Gudauri’s ski areas are patrolled by experienced ski rescue and first-aid teams. Emergency helicopter evacuation to Tbilisi is also available.

MESTIA

Mestia, the main regional centre of Zemo Svaneti, is situated 456 km from Georgia’s capital city, Tbilisi and is 1.500 metres above sea level. It is the starting point for most trips to Svaneti, with a range of hotels, guesthouses and local travel services, and a very convenient base for exploring the area.

From the centre of Mestia it is possible to hike up to the glaciers at the foot of mount Ushba, or take horses up to the pristine alpine meadows. Plus, a new ski resort makes it possible to ski or snowboard even in the height of summer. (Source: Georgia.Travel)

Сахли Кидз будет открыт на базе School Club Georgiaдетское пространство в котором занимаются дети экспатов из 10 стран мира в возрасте от 5 до 13 лет.

School Club готовит детей к аттестации в школе, также они посещают различные кружки и развивающие занятия. Для нас большая гордость стать партнерами столь крупного международнего проекта. Отдельное спасибо владельцу

“School Club Georgia” Наталье за возможность, поддержу и дружбу.

Вас ждет насыщенное расписание эксклюзивных

лекций, детских мастер классов, развлекательных игр и обучающих курсов: - рисование - вязание - рукоделие - кулинарные мастер классы - актерское мастерство - вокал - танцы - рисование на камушках - психологические игры - тай дай - показ мод - макраме - мафия - шоу талантов - угадай мелодию - настольные игры - детская премия - бисероплетение

со старыми друзьями и быть счастливыми. Родители могут быть спокойны, так как на территории School Club Georgia их дети будут в тепле, уюте и безопасности. Также, мы готовы разработать программу для родителей и что важно, совместную программу для

“

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.

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!

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.

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.

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!

BOLT TAXI

YANDEX TAXI

MAXIM TAXI

FREE TAXI

WOLT

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.