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Stay Amazing! We are passionate about hospitality. Every day we host travelers from all around the world and we know everybody wants an awesome holiday experience. This is why we offer the very best, hand selected vacation properties in Batumi. The apartment you’ll be staying at is special, because it’s a labor of love and attention of a dedicated group of people we call the Ruebush Hospitality Group. Our team has designed, planned, and developed this property with your maximum comfort in mind. –Whether you’re traveling for business, or on a long-awaited holiday, we’ll be happy to make your trip a hassle-free, and enjoyable experience. The exclusive collection of apartments in our portfolio shares the same common denominator – excellence. We aim to deliver excellence in every aspect: from beautifully designed spaces, to the quality of your sleep, and the impeccable daily service. We’re incredibly grateful that you’ve taken notice! Over the past 6 years we have hosted thousands of guests. We have thousands of reviews averaging 5 stars. We often get requests for direct bookings, so now we’ve finally created a space for you to book with us directly without incurring any additional channel fees.
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”
Let’s Discover Ajara! Ajara Life Magazine
Founder & CEO
David Ruebush Austin, Texas USA
Head of Magazine & Design Department Mehdi Maasoomi Head of Sales Department Aphina Martley Head of Marketing Department Ninna Sharadze Head of Logistic Department Kate Gubaeva Accounting Department Ia Surmanidze Omar Nakashidze Sales Agents Polina Kvitaishvili (Batumi) Nino Abramishvili (Tbilisi)
Ajara Life, the English language online and print publication headquartered in Batumi, launched in 2021 under Ruebush Hospitality Group LTD. With over 30 years experience in hospitality and over 15 years of experience in the media industry and our staffs’ commitment, knowledge and energy we feel confident that we will become the most recognised and respected infotainment and Tourist Guide in Ajara & Georgia. Our genuine point of difference is our primary focus on tourist attractions of different cities in Ajara, Georgia, Cultures, Traditions, Foods and Historical Places, Investment opportunities and Real Estate, Businesses and their activities, Product and Service Offers as well as Public Awareness on New Rules and Regulations, Events and Campaigns so that both business owners, readers and listeners – either Georgian residents or Tourists – win benefit. Besides, We gather information on the City’s Best Shops, Restaurants, Bars and Hotels, provide the most useful tourist and travel tips, highlight the best in Museum, Theatre and the events in town. Having the advantage of reaching a wide number of people globally through our online Magazine and Supplement, We intend to better introduce and promote Ajara & Georgia, provide awareness on its tourism potential and information on investment opportunities in various sectors for investors. Ajara Life Magazine is ideal for introducing new products and services, building established brands, presenting seasonal promotions and getting the return on investment that you expect.
David Ruebush
SPECIAL THANKS TO: > GEORGIAN NATIONAL TOURISM ADMINISTRATION > MINISTRY OF FINANCE AND ECONOMY OF AJARA A.R. > DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM AND RESORTS OF AJARA A. R. > AJARA MUSEUMS > BATUMI BOULEVAD 1881 > INVESTINBATUMI.GE > GOBATUMI.COM > AGENDA.GE
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Let’s Discover Ajara!
Content
This is Batumi
Activities & Nature in Batumi Boulevard
Georgia’s first Miniature Park
Ali & Nino THE KISS OF MOVING STATUES
Four Cities In Ajara Batumi, Kobuleti, Khulo & Keda
Why GEORGIA Is the Secret Gem of Europe?
REGIONAL LOGISTICS HUB, OPPORTUNITIES in Georgia
The Nobel Brother’s Batumi Technological Museum
Sameba Cathedral Holy Trinity Cathedral
“Mtsvadi” Grilled Pork Skewers
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THIS IS BATUMI
The main city of Adjara-Batumi was declared the best tourist destination by the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences in 2012. In recent Forbes rankings, Batumi was given a place amongst top five ‘velvet season’ recreational resorts. However, this doesn’t mean that Batumi is suitable for only ‘velvet season’ leisure activities. You can visit the city all year round for business or recreation. Batumi can be a perfect destination whether for high-profile international meetings or family weekends. Furthermore, Batumi city is desirable in any weather. The rainy Batumi is romantic - Colourful umbrellas, cheerful people-pebbled streets and hot steam of coffee on the sand, seeping through cozy local cafes. Colourful
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doors lead you to these cafes. There’s a lot of them in Batumi and taking photos against their background has become a tradition for the city guests.
In old Batumi, next to Piazza, in the alcove of a historical house on Gorgasali street, you can find the statue of a boy with a flute. This statue is considered to be a symbol of Batumi and has acquired such popularity that its modern, modification versions can be found by the entrance of the city boulevard. Check out Ali and Nino sculpture – their extraordinary date expressed in metal awakes wonderful emotions. Start from there and be confident that there is much to see. With its old and new architecture, old port, European
The city which will take its distinguished place in your memories. style squares, high-class hotels and other attractions Batumi is Georgia’s one of the best parts and cultural centers. You can get to the city easily, through terrestrial, aerial and maritime transport be it from European or Asian countries. In addition to conference halls where international level conferences take place, Batumi offers various means of entertainment: aqua park, horse riding club, Ferris Wheel, maritime cruises, fly boarding, diving-center, paragliding, cycling, cinemas, casinos. You can also attend annual classical and jazz music festivals where a number of global stars have featured already. If you find yourself in Batumi in autumn, you will be able to participate in two large-scale events – “Batumoba”
and rural tourism festival – “Gandagana”. On these events markets, concerts, theatrical performances and exhibitions take place. “Gandagana” festival features special decorations on Era square. They represent Adjarian villages and display a wide variety of fruits, local food, wine and sweet delicacies that fill the air with a pleasant smell. Batumi will open its theatre and exhibition hall doors for you. Spaces where you can walk and think about the past, the present and the future. Batumi feels like a yard which is full of happiness! This is Batumi – the city which will take its distinguished place in your memories. Source: Gobatumi.com AJARA Life Magazine 15
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
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.
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VETERAN’S CLUB
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
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.
YACHT CLUB
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. AJARA Life Magazine 17
ACTIVITIES & NATURE IN BATUMI BOULEVARD TROPICAL 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.
JAPANESE GARDEN
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.
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UKRAINIAN SQUARE
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
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.
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WHAT CAN YOU SEE The Miniature Park is located in Shekvetili, in the touristic-recreational zone near Tsitsinatela Amusement Park, about half an hour north of Batumi on the Black Sea coast.
Georgia’s uniqe tourist attraction has officially working where guests are invited to take a step back in time and explore dozens of the country’s most iconic buildings and sites in small scale. The country’s first Miniature Park opened on 2017 in Shekvetili, western Georgia. Here visitors can see 44 miniature replicas of iconic buildings and architectural monuments from all over Georgia that explore the country’s rich culture and history.
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At 1:25 scale, which is European standard for miniature parks, visitors will be able to tower over the displays and get a birds-eye view of sites that normally engulf them. Among the miniature displays are several iconic churches from different regions, historic stone pillars and towers and a comprehensive display of the country’s medieval city of Sighnagi. The Miniature Park also showcases a small-scale version of Narikala fortress in capital Tbilisi and many other historic monuments.
AT GEORGIA’S FIRST MINIATURE PARK?
The Miniature Park is located in Shekvetili, in the touristic-recreational zone near Tsitsinatela Amusement Park, about half an hour north of Batumi on the Black Sea coast. Ten million GEL (about $4.28 million/€3.84 million*) was invested in the new Miniature Park. All of this funding came via a private investment by Georgian tycoon and former Prime Minister Bidzina Ivanishvili through the Cartu Charity Foundation.
A unique database that includes accurate drawings of prototypes of the miniatures featured at the park was also gifted to state by the Cartu Charity Foundation. The drawings were rendered in a way that was particularly valuable for the National Agency of Monument Protection. Other infrastructure inside the Miniature Park includes a Visitors Centre with a mini amphitheater, a cafe and more. AJARA Life Magazine 23
ALI & NINO THE KISS OF MOVING STATUES “I designed it at a moment when I was hurt, so I wanted to make what was my idea of being together for a moment, with someone, and then you lose it,”
“ Tamar Kvesitadze ”
Created by the USA-based Georgian sculptor, Tamar Kvesitadze, a kinetic sculpture of Ali and Nino is undoubtedly one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Boulevard. 7-meter constructions of a man and a woman perform a circular motions for 8-10 minutes eventually merging into each other. The work was designed in 2007, but only installed in 2010. Made of steel discs, it weighs 7 tons and is 8 meters high. Its construction took 10 months and both figures are controlled by a computer. In addition to the movement, the monument also features spectacular, colorful lighting. The sculpture was inspired by the Azerbaijani novelist Kurban Said’s eponymous novel. The sculpture symbolizes eternal motion, love and convergence of cultures. However, each visitor can have his/her unique emotions and associations after attending this performance. To the people of Batumi, the city on Georgia’s Black Sea coast where it has since found a permanent home, it’s Ali and Nino.
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To everybody who visits the city, it’s likely to be the abiding memory of their trip: a moving (in every sense of the word) statue which slowly brings two lovers together for a short embrace, only for them to part almost immediately. It’s impossible not to stand transfixed, bewitched almost, before its tragic beauty, for the full 10 minutes it takes to complete the full cycle of coming together and breaking apart. And then you’ll stand there and watch it again. And again. It’s truly mesmerising. who are Ali & Nino? Set mainly in old Baku, Azerbaijan, Ali and Nino is a sweeping novel of romance and adventure which tells the tale of Ali, a Muslim schoolboy from an aristocratic Azeri family who falls in love with Nino, a beautiful Christian girl with distinct European sensibilities. In order to be together they must overcome personal scandal, family blood feuds, World War I and the Bolshevik revolution. In the end, they must choose between loyalty to their cultural beliefs and heritage, and ardent devotion to each other. They choose each other, only for Ali to die fighting the Bolsheviks as they advance on Baku.
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Batumi@amcenters.com
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BEST PLACES FOR KIDS IN BATUMI BOULEVARD
If you’re looking for the best place to spend time with your little ones, the boulevard is the best option. The fresh air, combined with a variety of plants, coniferous trees and sea breeze, is exactly what your little ones need.
In addition to promoting health in an environmentally friendly recreation area, you will find many exciting adventures. There is a variety of infrastructure on our boulevard to entertain and lifting the mood in children. There is a children’s playground with swings and various entertainment installations on the opposite side of
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the colonnades in the first coastal area, environment is decorated with statues of cartoon characters in natural size. Exactly the same kind of playground is found on the territory of the New Boulevard.
IN THE ZOO CORNER MORE THAN 140 WINGED INHABITANTS ARE ALWAYS READY TO LIFT YOUR LITTLE ONES MOOD If your kids are old enough and are attracted to the vibrant sensations and moderately extreme rides, then you should visit the area nearby Ardagan Lake, where there are several attractions on the seashore
that will interest guests of all ages and tastes, including their parents.
One of the advantages of the boulevard, of course, is its proximity to nature. Kids especially love animals and to get in touch with them, so the zoo corner in the center of the boulevard is the best place - more than 140 winged inhabitants are always ready to lift your little ones mood. After a cognitive and busy day, you don’t have to go too far with the kids for a snack - there are a variety of sweets and pastries on the boulevard, which can be purchased at specially arranged booths.
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FOUR CITIES IN AJARA
BATUMI, KOBULETI, KHULO AND KEDA KEDA
Keda is a municipality located in Adjara. Traces of human life in the area date back to ancient times, as evidenced by the settlements and cemeteries of the Bronze Age and ancient period found here. The settlement developed on the territory of the Keda was also in the Middle Ages, as evidenced by the many castles or beautiful arched bridges. According to Vakhushti Batonishvili, there was a city-type settlement in Daba Keda, where merchants lived. Nowadays, there are administrative, educational and healthcare facilities, small enterprises and a museum on the territory of municipality. Keda is distinguished by unique varieties of grapes, the wines produced in the district “Keda Tsolikouri” and “Chkhaveri” are very popular. Agriculture is developed in the municipality, leading fields are: fruit growing, viticulture, horticulture, vegetable growing, beekeeping. Trout farming is also developed in the region. Keda is rich in a variety of natural minerals such as copper and gold deposits and healing mineral waters. The region has great tourist potential, which is due to the beautiful nature and abundance of cultural monuments. The green valleys, waterfalls and castle towers attract a lot of visitors and leave no one indifferent.
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KHULO
Khulo is located in autonomous republic of Ajara. It is an administrative center of Khulo municipality. Situated in the Adjaristskali gorge, on Akhaltsikhe-Batumi road, 923 meters from sea level, 88 kilometers from Batumi. There are administrative, cultural, educational and health care institutions, small enterprises in the town. The old form of Khulo is “Khula”, which means the trading house. In the middle ages there was a caravan- trade road, which connected SamtskheJavakheti to the Adjara-Black Sea Coast with Goderdzi Pass. In the period of Ottoman domination, the upper political center of Adjara moved to Khulo from Skhalta. In 1874 its population was not more than 100 households. There was a church in Khulo, whose stones were used for the construction of the Djame and other buildings. In 1964 Khulo received the city status.
BATUMI
Batumi is located in Ajara, western Georgia. It is a wonderful seaside city with glittering beaches and attractive surroundings. The territory of Batumi was even populated in the Bronze Age. There was life during the antiquity period here, and the population had trade links with neighboring and distant countries. Ancient history, light and dynamic architecture, sunny seaside, boulevard, Batumi Botanical Garden, delicious Adjarian cuisine and many entertaining places, cultural or leisure destinations make this city incredible and it attracts many visitors. It is very popular not only across the republic but also across the region. Batumi is the administrative center of Ajara Autonomous Republic. It consists of administrative units of Old Batumi, Rustaveli, Bagrationi, Agmashenebeli, Javakhishvili, Tamari, Khimshiashvili, Boni-Gorodoki, Airport, Kakhaberi, Batumi, Gonio - Kvariati and Green Cape. The main part of the city lies to the south of the Gulf of Batumi and the northern part of the Kakhaberi plain, the rest of the city lies to the east and northeast of the Gulf along the Bartskhani and Korolistskali rivers. Batumi is a major international port on the southeastern coast of the Black Sea. You should start visiting Batumi by exploring its streets and the architecture of the XIX-XX centuries. You can visit all the main religious buildings (Orthodoxy, Catholicism, Islam, Judaism). According to the ancient history of Adjara, Batumi Archaeological Museum is very interesting, with its unique materials (coins of Georgian and foreign origin, bronze, glass and ceramics, etc.) from the Bronze Age Including A.C. medieval times. This sunny, seaside city is unimaginable without a boulevard, fountains, modern architecture, yachts and the landscape of sunset. And the last, the greenery of Batumi Botanical Garden, with its diverse vegetation and beautiful sceneries, will definitely give you tranquility and admiration.
KOBULETI
Kobuleti - city of western Georgia, administrative center of Kobuleti municipality in Ajara region. Located on Kobuleti lowland, on the Black Sea coast, 5 meters above sea level. Kobuleti is especially rich in ancient monuments of the stone and early feudal ages. Two archaeological monuments of stone age (Archaeological Monuments of Khutsubani and Kobobuleti) and one archaeological monuments of bronze age (Chaisubani) have been discovered on the territory of the municipality. The territory of Kobuleti municipality was represented Kvemo Guria and was part of the Guria Principality. In the XV-XVIII centuries there was a constant dispute between the Guria Principality and the Ottoman Empire. In 1774, the Ottoman Empire eventually conquered Guria. The border was passing through the river Tkhrapona. The process of implementing islam started and lasted over a century. The municipality territory was creating the Churuk-Su region, which was a part of Lazistan Sanjak. The Russian Empire was able to conquer Churuk-Su in 1829, but due to a technical error in the Adrianopoli Treaty, the border extended to the north and passed through the river Cholok. According to the data of 1865, 16 villages were included in Churuk-Su. There were 17 mosques and ten Madrasa, while 3592 Georgian Muslims and 538 Muhajirs lived there. The population was producing maize and construction wood. According to Dimitri Bakradze in 1873, the local population had Turkish names, but they remembered Georgian origins and used Georgian surnames. In 1878, after the Russian-Ottoman war, Russian Empire managed to conquer Churuk-Su, which was included in Batumi District as a Kintrishi District. In 1930 Kobuleti region was established. AJARA Life Magazine 31
BATUMI BUILD 2022
EXPO BATUMI | NET ORGANIZATION | GEONET EXPO
THE AIM OF THE CONSTRUCTION EXHIBITION IS TO UNITE LOCAL AND INTERNATIONAL COMPANIES IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY INTO A ONE SPACE, WHICH WILL HELP TO GET TO KNOW THE COMPANIES AND VISITORS FIND BUSINESS CONTACTS AND CONTINUE BUSINESS MEETINGS.
GEORGIA INTERNATIONAL FAIR AND EVENT COMPANY GEONET EXPO LLC
“GEONET EXPO” LLC IS ONE OF THE FIRST INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITIONS AND EVENTS COMPANIES IN GEORGIA. Geonet Expo Company has been organizing fairs for 14 years. The number of exhibitors and visitors has been increasing every year contributing to economic, cultural, trade, tourism in Georgia and the Caucasus region. The main purpose of “GEONET EXPO” company is to support tourism, agriculture, medical, construction, furniture, textile, fields in the country. It also aims at introducing Georgia to foreign companies, establish cooperation between international and local companies, and to discuss current issues during the fair. The organization organizes lectures, seminars and information tours.
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The main purpose of our fairs is to bring together local and international companies, to establish cooperation, strong relations among them and to create a trade bridge. “GEONET EXPO” LLC plans to organize new fairs and events next year e.g, Furniture fair, gift fair, Auto show, and book fair. Georgia is a developing country in the Caucasus. By organizing fairs, we constantly provide foreign companies with information about our country. Fairs, on the other hand, have a great place for the promotion and economy of the country. They are also very important economically as we normally organize them out of season.
2022
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GEORGIA EXPORTS 107 MLN BOTTLES OF WINE IN 2021, RECORD HIGH IN 9 YEARS Georgia exported about 107 million bottles of wine to 62 countries in 2021, marking a record high over the last nine years. Georgia exported about 107 million bottles of wine to 62 countries in 2021, marking a record high over the last nine years, the government revealed on Monday. Sales of Georgian wine abroad generated $250 million last year, with a total of 441 companies exporting the product to various countries, data released to summarise an increase in exports showed. The figure contrasts with as few as 100 companies selling wine abroad in 2012. Wine exports have increased by 360 per cent compared to year 2012. Georgia generated $250 million in 2021, while the revenue from wine exports was $71 million in
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2012,” Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili said at a governmental meeting today. Total export sales of alcoholic beverages reached $400 million in 2021, with the overall figure showing an 18 percent increase compared to 2020 and 142 percent more than the related number ($163 million) in 2012. Beside wine, the products also included classic brandy, the Georgian variation chacha and more. In addition, the National Wine Agency of Georgia reported today wine exports to the United States had exceeded one million bottles in 2021, breaking the number for the first time in the history of independent Georgia. . (Source: Agenda.ge)
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THE NOBEL BROTHER’S BATUMI TECHNOLOGICAL MUSEUM
The Nobel brothers had a house and a plot of land at the entrance to Batumi. The house is still preserved. In 2007, the Nobel Brothers Batumi Technological Museum was opened. The museum exhibits tell us about the activities of the Nobel brothers, which are related to the development of technologies in Batumi and its development as a port’s city. The Nobel brothers started their business in Russia in the distant 1840s, though unsuccessfully. Emmanuel Nobel was forced to leave St. Petersburg, while his children, Ludwig and Robert, chose to stay (while Alfred returned to Europa to work on Nitroglycerin). After the bankruptcy of their father, the brothers opened a military factory in St. Petersburg, which carried out military orders: making machine guns, cannons and lances, rifles. Timber for rifle butts was imported from abroad. In order to get rid of his dependence on foreigners and to reduce the cost of his products, in 1873 Robert Nobel traveled to the Caucasus in search of low cost resources. And there, on the empty shores of the Absheron Peninsula, for the first time in his life, he saw streams of dark, oily fluid rising directly from the ground. Robert Nobel soon realized what rich resources were keeping this corner of land. Excited, he hurried to the shores. After a long meeting with the brothers Ludwig
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Extract from the essay “Great People in Georgia” and Alfred (who established the Nobel Prize), he returned to Baku in 1875 and set up an oil and refining company there, which later became the largest company in the Russian Empire. The “ The Nobel Brothers Oil Production Partnership” was established. The founders of the partnership were Ludwig, Robert and Alfred. Together they decided to export Caspian hydrocarbons to Europe. Several options of transit routes were discussed, they agreed on the route advised by Ludwig: BakuTbilisi-Batumi. Here is what Ludwig wrote to the brothers in Baku-Petersburg and how he was justifying his proposal: “Among all possible routes for the transportation of oil from Baku, I recommend choosing the route that goes beyond Georgia, because in addition to the territorial
proximity between the two countries, there is a unique sense of friendship and mutual loyalty to foreign businesspeople. “The other options of the route are much more risky, because nowhere are the conditions as favorable as in Baku-Tbilisi-Batumi. Therefore, I am deeply convinced that we should choose this route.” Historical archives of Georgia show some interesting documents on the activities of the Nobel brothers in Georgia. One of the documents relates to Robert’s visit to Tbilisi in March 1873 and his appeal to the Division of the Caucasus King. Robert tried to convince local authorities on the effectiveness of the newly invented dynamite in both clearing mountainous areas and using it under water. Appealing to the widespread use of dynamite in the mountainous landscape of the Caucasus around the world, he appealed to the government to allow the import of 500 pounds of dynamite into Georgia on duty-free terms.
In May 1878, the decree of Emperor Alexander II laid the foundation for the largest oil company in the Russian Empire: the Nobel Brotherhood (Branobel) with a starting capital of 3 million rubles. Until the 1980s, the Nobel brothers transported oil from Baku abroad via the Baltic seaports, which was quite expensive and therefore the industrialists did not like this route. Batumi was considered the best option, however, as long as it was in the hands of Turks, they could not use this route. The situation changed after Russia won the war with Turkey in 1877-1878 and brought Batumi under its areal of influence. This created favorable conditions for oil exports.
Robert was the first of the Nobel brothers to arrive in the Caucasus after visiting his brother, Alfred, in Paris. However, the founder of the Russian oil industry was Ludwig, who in 1875 bought a “photogenic plant” from “Tbilisi Auctioneers” and oil-rich territories in Baku for 8,000 manats. AJARA Life Magazine 37
THE NOBEL BROTHER’S BATUMI TECHNOLOGICAL MUSEUM
In 1883, the construction of the Batumi-Samtredia railway line connected Baku started, which increased the prospects for the growth and development of the portindustrial city. These processes were also facilitated by the Peace Congress of Berlin in 1878 and the proclamation of Batumi, a special status of “Porto Franco ‘’ that is a “Free Port ‘’. Big businessmen such as Nobels, Rothschilds, as well as English and German capitas started to invest in Batumi city development. The Nobel brothers built the Batumi Oil Terminal; Some of the tanks they created can still be found on territory 120 years after. Huge steel reservoirs were erected by the sea. Construction works were underway with their participation in many fields of economy which triggered the popularity of Batumi city among Europeans and Americans. Railway line-Tbilisi-Batumi and an 835-kilometer-long oil pipeline were built. There were 16 pumping stations on the pipeline route. The construction and installation works were done by
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hand, the pipes were connected to each other with screw joints and they were covered with anti-corrosion insulation. A telephone connection was introduced along the route. All the construction of the pipeline was completed at the highest technical level of that time, and the pipeline itself was one of the most powerful in the world. During the crossing of the Mtkvari River, the pipeline hung on the railway bridge. Another feature of the cable laying was its laying in the four-kilometer Surami tunnel. The capacity of the pipeline was 900 thousand tons per year. Luxury European architecture style villas were being built for foreign businessmen and their management teams. The main Nobel brothers’ villa was also the head office of the Consulate General of SwedenNorway in the Caucasus. The Georgian Historical Archive contains an application dated 5 June 1897 of the appointment of Gustav August Hager, director of the Brotherhood facilities in Batumi, as SwedenNorway Vice-Consul. Nobels were frequent visitors to Georgia until 1917.
The Batumi phenomenon By 1899, there were 366 enterprises operating in Batumi. Their owners were Greeks, Turks, Persians, Poles, English, Germans, French and even Italians. According to the data of 1902, a ship loaded with 285 oil tankers left Batumi, which in total amounted to 54,573,000 pounds. According to the 1908 cargo turnover, Batumi port was ranked number three in the entire Russian Empire (after ports of St. Petersburg and Odessa) with 42.9 million pounds of cargo. By 1902, there were 24 shipping companies operating in Batumi. The vast majority of them were of English, French or German descent as well as those such as the “Belgian Anonymous Society” or the American oil tanker community from Rotterdam. By 1901, the consulates of Turkey, England, Greece, Italy, Japan and Persia were accredited in Batumi. In addition, the United States of America, Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands, Austria-Hungary, Denmark and Sweden had their Consular representatives in Batumi.
The Nobel Brother’s Batumi Technological Museum:
3A, Leselidze str., Batumi
Museum collection description:
The Museu represents the technical technological achievements introduced to Batumi at the end of the XIXth and beginning of the XXth centuries: activity of the Nobel Brothers, the Rotschilds, and Mantashev. With Nobel Brothers help and activity the new technology of oil transit was implemented and Batumi was involved into the International Trade Affairs. There are exhibits on the development of tea culture, printing-house, and photography. Museum also exhibits the photos of Prokudin-Gorski – the first master of the coloured photography.
Working hours: 10.00-18.00 AJARA Life Magazine 39
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!
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!
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!
BOOK YOUR TRIP IN ADVANCE!
Meeting Point: Citysightseeing Tbilisi Office Duration of tour: 10:00-16:00
WE VISIT Gori Uflistsikhe
ADULT /CHILD
55 GEL
Meeting Point: Citysightseeing Tbilisi Office Duration of tour: 10:00-16:00
WE VISIT
ADULT /CHILD
70 GEL
David Gareji, Georgian-Azerbaijani border, The ancient village Martkopi, Martkopi Generic tower, Martkopi monastery to the tomb of st. Anthony
Contact: +995 514 21 77 22 +995 322 43 88 08 info@citysightseeing.com.ge Str. Kote Apkhzi 44 (Meidan Sq.)
www.cstbilisi.com AJARA Life Magazine 41
This holiday season, forget the plane ticket to Milan. Cancel Berlin. And don’t bother with London. Instead, head to Georgia. (And we don’t mean hop on a local liner to Atlanta to enjoy a game of college football and a mint julep.) Georgia also happens to be the name of a tiny Caucasus country that sits under the belly of Russia and borders Turkey, Armenia, and Azerbaijan—a hidden, Black Sea–skirting gem tucked between Eastern Europe and Western Asia. The recommendation to visit is not so random either. The country has been under an international spotlight recently thanks to the Georgian-born designer Demna Gvasalia of Vetements, who is also now the creative director of Balenciaga. And it doesn’t stop at the runway: Georgian cuisine has been making a delectable move to the States. So why not head to the country to see the trove of cool for yourself? Here, the top five reasons why you should book your ticket and explore Tbilisi, Georgia—now. The Calorie-Boasting Cuisine Over the past few years, a wave of Georgian
restaurants have become a hit stateside: homelike nooks on New York’s Lower East Side such as Oda House, or Compass Rose in Washington, D.C. And there is no doubt about why this Eastern European cuisine has crossed the Atlantic. Who wouldn’t love the rich and delicious clogyour-arteries effect? Aside from broth-y, meatstuffed dumplings called khinkali, or badrijani nigvzit, walnut-and-garlic-filled eggplant rolls, the perfect example of an ultimate calorie-packed national delicacy is khachapuri adjaruli. In this dish, the bread is in the shape of a pinched boat, stuffed and baked with a traditional Georgian cheese called suluguni , topped with a melted stick of butter and raw egg, and then mixed together by the server or diners. Too tame to try the fresh-from-the-chicken garnish? You can also opt for a simple khachapuri. It’s still guaranteed to leave you happily full as well as soar past your daily nutritional requirements. The best way to top it off, too? A swig of Georgian wine—it’s fermented in a kveri,a B.C. tradition that involves a clay vessel buried far underground. We’ll toast to that anytime.
WHY GEORGIA
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Head to the Old City for Some Cobblestone Cool A blast from the past, the Old City of Tbilisi looks intact from its ancient Byzantine-meets-Russian inception. The 12th-century MetekhiChurch sits on top of a cliff, while primary color–slathered houses pop in the foreground and buildings appear as if they may tip into the Mtkvari River. As you explore the throwback section, make sure to catch the city’s famed marionette show by Rezo Gabriadze, held in a teetering clock tower, or pick up a simple souvenir. Also, remember to look toward the sky when you walk: Traditional Georgian architecture is known for its high-scooping, filigreelike take on woodwork when it comes to balconies. Georgia’s Heart-Pumping Take on Ballet Ready for some ballet? No, not the delicate Swan Lake–type pirouettes or wispy ballerina topknots. We’re talking swords, shields, and lots of lower body strength. Welcome to the Sukhishvili Georgian National Ballet. Founded by ballet dancers Iliko Sukhishvili and Nino Ramishvili in 1945 (it was previously named Georgian National Ballet), the Georgian style of dance is an intense, chest-puffing production, pumped with testosterone and sweat—almost like a weapon-waving cardio workout in traditional Georgian clothing. Another fun fact? The men skip the classic box-toe ballet shoes. Talk about tough.
The Down-Low Spa Experience: The Sulfur Baths Need to soak off that jet lag? The quickest cure-all is to take a dive into the Georgian version of the Turkish hammam or Russian banya: the sulfur bath. Built on hot sulfur springs, tons of bathhouses offer visitors a dip in warm, egg-scented pools of water to rejuvenate. The ancient tradition is said to have magical healing powers, from curing muscle aches to clearing up skin. And you don’t need deep pockets to experience the poached egg moment: A typical dip ranges from $20 to $70. If you want to get the luxe treatment, you can rent out a private bathhouse, complete with a personal massage-meets-scrub and a sauna room to sweat it out. Where to Stay: Rooms Hotel Please, skip the adventure of booking an Airbnb or a youth-packed hostel when you arrive in Tbilisi. The place to stay is Rooms Hotel—or as the locals simply refer to it, Rooms. A part of the Design Hotels franchise that includes the Ludlow Hotel and Crosby Street Hotel, Rooms is a chic limbo that wavers between Georgia and New York. There is a throwback vibe to the decor: antique rugs, plush lounge couches, and a very-wellstocked library. Hungry or thirsty? There is a stellar cocktail bar (complete with a mixologist), and the food is locally sourced. Expect to eat up and sleep well. Source: [ www.vogue.com]
IS THE SECRET GEM OF EUROPE?
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SAMEBA CATHEDRAL
HOLY TRINITY CATHEDRAL
Built in year 2004, the Holy Trinity Tsminda Sameba Cathedral is also called the symbol of new Georgia. The beauty and sizes of cathedral are indeed breathtaking, and rises magnificently on the hill of the St. Ilya, on the left bank of the Kura River. Sameba is the highest church in Georgia. It is 101m high. For comparison, before Sameba, the Alaverdi Cathedral in Kakheti was considered the tallest, with about 50m in height. Sameba Cathedral was built with grandiose scope. Its golden dome is practically seen from any point in Tbilisi. The cathedral is part of the entire complex including residence of the Patriarch and a monastery, school of theology and academy, hotel and the complex consisting of nine chapels, five of which are located under the ground. Construction of Sameba Cathedral was timed to the 2000th anniversary of Christianity and 1500th anniversary of the independence of the Georgian church. The construction of the cathedral was decided in 1989 but it started only on 23 November 1995. The first divine service in cathedral was held on 25 December 2002 during the construction works that finally ended in 2004. Construction was sponsored by wealthy residents of the city. The square of the Sameba Cathedral equals 5000 square meters, and can place up to 15,000 people. The foundation of the cathedral was done according to all traditions: pieces from holy spots were placed in its basement like rocks from the Sion Mountain and the Jordan River, soil from Jerusalem and from the tomb of St. George. The Patriarch and the President have laid the memorial nameplates too. Bells for the cathedral
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were cast in Germany. There are nine of them, and the biggest weighs 8,000 kg. The cathedral is designed in the spirit of modernism, and its architecture has little similarities with old traditions. Faces of the cathedral are done exquisitely with arches and unique fretwork. There are beautiful frescoes created under the supervision of the icon painter Amiran Goglidze on the walls of the Sameba Cathedral. Catholicos Patriarch of Georgia Ilia II also took part in painting works of the Tsminda Sameba Cathedral; he painted several icons and a big image of the Holy Virgin that can be seen at the entrance. There are two floors under the ground; on the second floor there are museum and conference hall. Holy Trinity Cathedral is considered one of the main sights of Tbilisi.
“
The Trinity (Sameba) Cathedral is one of the tallest Eastern Orthodox cathedrals in the World. The cathedral complex includes an underground section and integrates nine chapels, various supplementary buildings, and beautiful gardens.
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History of
Valentine’s Day Valentine greetings were popular as far back as the Middle Ages, though written Valentine’s didn’t begin to appear until after 1400.
Every February 14, across the United States and in other places around the world, candy, flowers and gifts are exchanged between loved ones, all in the name of St. Valentine. But who is this mysterious saint, and where did these traditions come from? Find out about the history of this centuries-old holiday, from ancient Roman rituals to the customs of Victorian England. The Legend of St. Valentine The history of Valentine’s Day–and the story of its patron saint–is shrouded in mystery. We do know that February has long been celebrated as a month of romance, and that St. Valentine’s Day, as we know it today, contains vestiges of both Christian and ancient Roman tradition. 48 AJARA Life Magazine
But who was Saint Valentine, and how did he become associated with this ancient rite? The Catholic Church recognizes at least three different saints named Valentine or Valentinus, all of whom were martyred. One legend contends that Valentine was a priest who served during the third century in Rome. When Emperor Claudius II decided that single men made better soldiers than those with wives and families, he outlawed marriage for young men. Valentine, realizing the injustice of the decree, defied Claudius and continued to perform marriages for young lovers in secret. When Valentine’s actions were discovered, Claudius ordered that he be put to death.
Other stories suggest that Valentine may have been killed for attempting to help Christians escape harsh Roman prisons, where they were often beaten and tortured. According to one legend, an imprisoned Valentine actually sent the first “valentine” greeting himself after he fell in love with a young girl–possibly his jailor’s daughter–who visited him during his confinement. Before his death, it is alleged that he wrote her a letter signed “From your Valentine,” an expression that is still in use today. Although the truth behind the Valentine legends is murky, the stories all emphasize his appeal as a sympathetic, heroic and–most importantly–romantic figure. By the Middle Ages, perhaps thanks to this reputation, Valentine would become one of the most popular saints in England and France. Origins of Valentine’s Day: A Pagan Festival in February While some believe that Valentine’s Day is celebrated in the middle of February to commemorate the anniversary of Valentine’s death or burial–which probably occurred around A.D. 270–others claim that the Christian church may have decided to place St. Valentine’s feast day in the middle of February in an effort to “Christianize” the pagan celebration of Lupercalia. Celebrated at the ides of February, or February 15, Lupercalia was a fertility festival dedicated to Faunus, the Roman god of agriculture, as well as to the Roman founders Romulus and Remus. To begin the festival, members of the Luperci, an order of Roman priests, would gather at a sacred cave where the infants Romulus and Remus, the founders of Rome, were believed to have been cared for by a she-wolf or lupa. The priests would sacrifice a goat, for fertility, and a dog, for purification. They would then strip the goat’s hide into strips, dip them into the sacrificial blood and take to the streets, gently slapping both women and crop fields with the goat hide. Far from being fearful, Roman women welcomed the touch of the hides because it was believed to make them more fertile in the coming year. Later in the day, according to legend, all the young women in the city would place their names in a big urn. The city’s bachelors would each choose a name and become paired for the year with his chosen
woman. These matches often ended in marriage. Valentine’s Day: A Day of Romance Lupercalia survived the initial rise of Christianity and but was outlawed—as it was deemed “un-Christian”–at the end of the 5th century, when Pope Gelasius declared February 14 St. Valentine’s Day. It was not until much later, however, that the day became definitively associated with love. During the Middle Ages, it was commonly believed in France and England that February 14 was the beginning of birds’ mating season, which added to the idea that the middle of Valentine’s Day should be a day for romance. Valentine greetings were popular as far back as the Middle Ages, though written Valentine’s didn’t begin to appear until after 1400. The oldest known valentine still in existence today was a poem written in 1415 by Charles, Duke of Orleans, to his wife while he was imprisoned in the Tower of London following his capture at the Battle of Agincourt. (The greeting is now part of the manuscript collection of the British Library in London, England.) Several years later, it is believed that King Henry V hired a writer named John Lydgate to compose a valentine note to Catherine of Valois. Source: History.com
AJARA Life Magazine 49
RUEBUSH GARDENS HOTEL 50 AJARA Life Magazine
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AJARA Life Magazine 51
info@ruebushgroup.com | 110 Vakhtang Gorgasali St. Batumi.
STORY OF BCB MEMBER
“
Основная философия нашего бизнеса-это соответствовать названию, т.е делать всё “Po-krasote”. Начиная от обучения персонала,закупа качественных табаков и кальянов, заканчивая созданием правильной атмосферы в баре, благораря освещению и верно подобранной музыки. населения.
Owner of Hookah Bar “Po-krasote”
Anton Ussachof 1. Tell us about yourself ,where are you from and when did you move to Georgia? My name is Anton, I arrived in Georgia at the end of March, a month later my brother Alexander and his girlfriend Elena arrived. We arrived from the very center of Russia - Siberia. 2. What kind of business do you do and do you operate it in Georgia too? At the beginning of June, we had the idea to open a business in Georgia and after 3 weeks our hookah bar “Po-krasote” was already welcoming the first guests. In Georgia in our opinion this is a very easy and simple business plan for expats to launch. We were all worried that our establishment at the summer resort would not be able to make a profit in the winter, but no, we are doing well! Plus, we have opened new projects in the ski resorts Bakurini and Gudauri. Scaling was not long in coming. The development process began quickly. 3. Why this particular area of activity? It’s just that we love hookahs very
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much, but it was not realistic to find good ones in Batumi. And as a sign of fate, we saw a good offer from someone else selling the ready hookah business and, without hesitation,we decided to take a chance. 4. Tell us more about your establishment? The main philosophy of our business is to live up to the name, i.e. to do everything “Po-krasote”-by beauty. Starting from staff training, purchasing high-quality tobaccos and hookahs, ending with creating the right atmosphere in the bar, thanks to lighting and the right music. We are happy to share experience and create jobs for the local population. 5. Name the top 3 most important advantages of your establishment? Our team has a responsible approach to business: - purchase of high-quality hookahs and good tobaccos; - staff training and individual approach to each guest; - a favorable atmosphere which makes our visitors return to us again and again.
6. What was the biggest turning point in your business? Having gone all this way, 7 months long, we can say for sure that there was nothing more difficult than deciding to open a hookah bar. At that time, we did not know anything about the country and the laws, so we also opened in a pandemic and with the last money we had saved, BUT what is important with great faith in success! We are a young, but very rapidly developing company, so turning points are yet to come. 7. How did the period of quarantine and lockdown affect you? When we were already making repairs and investing all the finances in the opening, Georgia lived under a curfew until 21:00 and there was no exact information that it would be canceled, but we all prepared smoothly and worked according to the requirements of the law. But then they “untied our hands” more and more, allowing us to work until 22:00, then until 23:00, and our guests were extremely happy about this. In retrospect, the lockdown was more of an opportunity than a hindrance. 8. What is the biggest plus of
doing business in Georgia? Lack of bureaucracy in opening small businesses at the start and ease procedures of legalizing your income. And the most important thing is that Georgia allows a new business to pay only 1% tax and this is a biggest benefit compared to any other country. 9. What are your plans for the next 5 years? The hookah business in Georgia has a very great potential in the future. But until a pandemic is over, it is difficult for us to plan 5 years ahead. An exact answer to this question can only be given in the perspective of 3 years. During this time, hookah bar “PoKrasote” will be open in all major cities and resorts of Georgia. We are preparing a new service for Georgia - hookah catering - this is an opportunity for any business to quickly start providing hookah to its guests. And “Po-Krasote” will help you do it quickly, and most importantly, with high quality! We wish everyone good luck and want to express our deep gratitude to Ajara Life Magazine for the opportunity to tell the world about us. See you soon. AJARA Life Magazine 53
STORY OF BCB MEMBER
“
Рынок частных вилл и мини-комплексов с современной архитектурой практически пуст на данный момент. Коттедж, построенный по европейским технологиям, с собственным участком и шикарным видом — отличные инвестиции в стремительно развивающемся регионе! www.estecohome.com
“Esteco” Construction & Development Company
Vladimir Popov & Evgeny Veshnyakov Tell us about yourself, where are you from and when did you move to Georgia? Vladimir: My name is Vladimir Popov. I'm from Belarus. I moved to Georgia in 2019 and still live here. Evgeny: My name is Veshnyakov Evgeny, I come from a very beautiful city St. Petersburg, I fell in love with Georgia in 2017 and in 2020 I made a decision to move here for living and working in this wonderful country. What kind of business do you run and do you operate it in Georgia as well? Vladimir: I am a co-owner of the construction and development company Esteko. My partner Evgeny and I decided to take a niche in the construction of low-rise buildings, which is already a trend today. Evgeny: Since in St. Petersburg I was engaged in the construction of private houses and cottages, here I decided to do the same. Vladimir and I decided to bring the culture of building modern private houses to Georgia, it should be high-quality, reliable, aesthetic and undoubtedly beautiful housing. Why this particular area of activity? Vladimir: Firstly, it is very interesting for us personally and we are pleased
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to physically see the result of our activities, especially such a large-scale one. Secondly, we have a lot of experience behind us and we clearly understand that the niche of low-rise construction is only developing in Georgia, but at the same time there is already a great demand for it. We do our best to make people a worthy offer. An offer no one wants to refuse. Evgeny: We like the construction industry - we like to see how a house grows from a picture of a project, step by step, stage by stage, what was on a piece of paper becomes a reality, and we feel pride and significance for our work.
We will build only high-quality houses, using our 9-years experience of cottage construction Tell us more about your project? Cottage mini-complex for 9 houses, with modern architecture, spacious roof terraces, gorgeous views of the sea, mountains and city. A promising place with a developed external infrastructure. Green area, fresh air, quiet and secluded place just 20 minutes from the city center.
Are you one of the first to enter the private villa niche? Vladimir: The market for private villas and mini-complexes with modern architecture is practically empty at -the moment and we do great offers in this niche. Modern design, high-quality building materials, a private plot with a gorgeous view, and most importantly at a good price. Evgeny: The market for private housing construction, as my partner correctly noted, is still practically absent here, so we believe that we will occupy a high position in this market, thanks to our approach to the quality of house construction and to an individual approach to each client. We build for people to have a happy and enjoyable life in fantastic villas made by our team. What was the most turning point? Vladimir: It was probably the very moment when I saw the site.
It was love at first sight. Then I realized that we must and will definitely do it! Evgeny: Vladimir showed me the project, showed me the views from the site where the complex will be located. Then I realized - yes, it is necessary to bring this project to life. What are the most important advantages of your project? Оur project has a lot of advantages: - Reliable, stylish house made of quality materials. - Gorgeous views of the city, mountains and sea. 360° view. - Actively developing area (developed external infrastructure). - Your own piece of land - Best value for money
Green zone, fresh air, quiet area, but only 10 km from the center of the Batumi
What are the terms and conditions for registration of real estate and land as property for foreigners? Vladimir: A foreigner can formally register land and real estate in his own name as private property. There are no problems with this. Everything is easy and transparent! Evgeny: No problem! Confirmation of our words are Georgian lawyers who can tell you how easy and simple it all happens, as well as help with registration. What is your advice to entrepreneurs? Vladimir: Do what you like! And do it well so that you would like to use it yourself. Evgeny: Love, like it - take it and do it, don't wait, it won't work. It's better to try and regret if you don't succeed than to regret later on for not trying.
VILLAS WITH BEST VIEWS OVER MOUNTAINS, SEA AND CITY www.estecohome.com +995 555 08 19 19 estecohome@gmail.com
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”
THE HOUSE “SAKHLI” On January 14, we had a concert of one of the most famous Georgian singers, who is also very popular abroad - Megi Gogitidze.
A place where everyone is warm and comfortable. A place where everyone feels at home... Sakhli is a free space for each of us. - Coworking area - Cafe and bar - Business Community - Dance studio - Office space rental per hour - Conference hall - Library - Art Hall - Courtyard, veranda and balcony On January 14, we had a concert of one of the most famous Georgian singers, who is also very popular
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«Sakhli» is a unique space in center of old town of Batumi. This atmospheric house with authentic decor, beautiful green yard and small pond with golden fish does not leave anyone emotionless. abroad - Megi Gogitidze. Her songs penetrate the soul, touch the deepest feelings and evoke the most sincere emotions. “My music is not only in words, not only in notes and not only in my self-expression - it is an opportunity to free myself ... for minutes ... seconds ... and take this feeling out of me that was kept deep in myself for a long time.Free from what? From myself! From that side of myself that sometimes interferes with life.” - Megi Gogitidze. The evening was atmospheric and creative. It is difficult to convey in words what happened in “Sakhli” that evening. We share memories with you. Photo by @freedonm
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Speak Georgian The country’s official language is Georgian, but English is widely used. Russian is also spoken by the majority of Georgians. See below for a list of some of the most common words.
Hello .................................................. gamarjoba Goodbye ............................. nakhvamdis, kargad Please ........................................... tu sheidzleba You’re welcome ....................................... arapris Thank you .............................................. madlobt Excuse me ........................................ ukatsravad Yes ........................................................ diakh, ki No ................................................................. ara Enjoy your meal ...................... gemrielad miirtvit Cheers! ............................................ gaumarjos! I don’t understand ................................. ar mesmis I don’t know ............................................. ar vici Help! ........................ mishvelet! damekhmaret! Hospital .......................................... saavdmkofo Ambulance .......................................... sastsrafo Where is…? ..................................... sad aris...? Do you speak English? .. inglisurad laparakobt? How much does … cost? ................... ra ghirs? What’s your name? .......................... ra gqviat? Right .................................................... marjvniv left ................................................... martskhniv Push (on a door) ................................ miatsekit Pull (on a door) ............................... gamoaghet Open ........................................................ ghiaa Closed ................................................. daketilia Beer ............................................................. ludi Wine ....................................................... ghvino Water ...................................................... tsk’ali One ............................................................... erti Two ................................................................ ori Three .......................................................... sami Four ........................................................... otkhi Five ............................................................ khuti Six ............................................................. ekvsi Seven ....................................................... shvidi Eight ............................................................. rva Nine .......................................................... tskhra Ten ................................................................. ati Hundred ....................................................... asi Thousand ................................................... atasi 58 AJARA Life Magazine
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POPULAR DELIVERY APPS IN BATUMI GLOVO Order from any of our stores, parapharmacies and restaurants, or order anything you can think of.
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UPS is recognized as one of World's Most Ethical Companies for Eleventh Consecutive year.
UPS delivers to more than 220 countries and territories worldwide. For bookings and enquiries: Tel: +995 32 2745 144 Tel: +995 32 2745 101 Tel: +995 32 2745 188
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© 2016 United Parcel Service of America, Inc. All rights reserved.
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.
61 Life Magazine © 2016 United Parcel Service of America, Inc. AllAJARA rights reserved.
REGIONAL LOGISTICS HUB WHY INVEST IN GEORGIA? REGIONAL LOGISTICS HUB Georgia is in a highly strategic location in that it serves as an entry gate to the Caucasus and Central Asia. Georgia is a reliable corridor for addressable flows between Caucasus and Europe and between Central Asia and Europe. This concept is being based on historical Silk Road for centuries that gives Georgia a significant geopolitical role. Georgian transport economy is transit oriented. Up to 60% of cargo flow in Georgia is transit. Transport
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corridors are breathing new life into the ancient trade route between east and west and could reinvigorate Georgian transportation. In this regard, Georgia is developing a new deep sea port, which is intended to have 100 mln tons capacity; Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway project is completed. This railway has a significant importance for the region, because it is intended to connect Georgian and Azerbaijan railways to the Turkish one. These projects are aimed to increase the main geopolitical asset of Georgia – transit potential. Source: investingeorgia.org
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GEORGIA IS A RELIABLE CORRIDOR FOR ADDRESSABLE FLOWS BETWEEN CAUCASUS AND EUROPE AND BETWEEN CENTRAL ASIA AND EUROPE. THIS CONCEPT IS BEING BASED ON HISTORICAL SILK ROAD FOR CENTURIES THAT GIVES GEORGIA A SIGNIFICANT GEOPOLITICAL ROLE.
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WHY INVEST IN
REGIONAL LOGISTICS HUB
ACCESS POINT FOR THE LANDLOCKED COUNTRIES Georgia serves as an entry gate for the Central Asian landlocked countries, so the oil, gas, coal, zinc, copper and other resources can be transferred to the Europe though Georgia. Reliable transit route Out of the three main roads from Europe to Asia, the road through Georgia is the most stable and secure. Due to the stable political and economic climate, Caucasian corridor is becoming more and more attractive for businesses. Additionally, the Suez channel has reached its maximum capacity. Thus there is clearly an opportunity to open North-South land-transport.
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Customs Clearance is Transparent, Fast and Efficient Transit if free of tax. Customs is one of the less corrupted body globally, according transparency international 2014 report. Average time for import clearance is just 15 minutes. Up to 15 days deferred payment of Customs tax/VAT for importers is possible. There is a network of modern Customs Clearance Terminals and Cargo inspection/Cross-Dock modern equipment and facilities. The services you can get here is a Preliminary Customs Declaration, Serf-service for customs clearance of cars and Online Services for remote clearance (including tax returns).
Fast Growing Region The infrastructure of the whole region is being upgraded rapidly. The orchestra of key projects, like as Anaklia deep sea port and Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway projects in Georgia, construction of Alyat port in Azerbaijan, new 1,5 bln USD port in Turkmenistan, 10 new tanker in Caspian Sea, construction of connecting railway between Turkmenistan, Afghanistan and Tajikistan, as well as construction of linking railway between China, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan promises a new development of the Silk Road and the whole regions, in addition, increases the importance of the involving countries. Growing flows from the East The western part of China is in a process of rapid development, 53.87 BLN USD is already invested in these regions in airports, roads and energy plants, in next 2 years investments in these regions will reach minimum 114 BLN USD. This is an opportunity for Georgia, as it is a part of Eurasian corridor and the historical Silk Road. The first railway freight transportation from China in the direction of Georgia was carried out. Loading of the transported freight was carried out in China on January 29, 2015 and unloading – on February 6, 2015 in Georgia. The project was carried out by means of close cooperation with the railways of Georgia, Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan and the province of China - Xinjiang. Georgia remains the position of crucial transit corridor for
the north and south countries in Caucasian Region. Baku-Tbilisi-Kars Project The project of Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railroad mainline was initiated in 2007 by the governments of Georgia, Azerbaijan and Turkey. The project is a new transport corridor which unifies Georgian, Turkish and Azerbaijan railways. Realization of this project will open railway corridor from Caspian Sea to the Europe through Turkey, which is intended to support connection between natural resources reach countries and consumer countries. The project envisages the rehabilitation, reconstruction and construction of 180 km length Marabda-Kartsakhi railway section consisting of: Marabda-Akhalkalaki reconstruction-rehabilitation section – useful length 153 km and AkhalkalakiKartsakhi (Turkish border) new construction section – length 27 km. Rehabilitation, reconstruction and construction process is executed within the framework of the project envisaged for 5 mln tons cargo flow per year. Main part of construction works are already completed on theterritory of Georgia. At the end of the first phase, the railway will be capable to carry 1 mln passenger per year. The project will fully integrated by the end of 2015. Source: investingeorgia.org AJARA Life Magazine 65
“IN GEORGIA
INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES
REGIONAL LOGISTICS HUB
Deep-Sea Port Georgia is located on the shortest connecting road of Europe and Asia. The amount of handled cargo in Georgian ports has been significantly increased in last years. Consequently, the Georgian ports are overloaded; in addition, the depth of the existing ports is not enough to get PANAMAX or VLC types of ships. As a result, there is a necessity of a new deep sea port (Anaklia Port 18-20m natural draft) that will have a strategic location and a potential to resist increasing cargo flows from Europe to Asia and from North to South. Advantages of this project are strategic location, capacity to receive large vessels, high capacity, opportunities for advanced logistical services and possibilities for creating industrial clusters. The Government of Georgia intends to select an investor to develop the Anaklia Port on a build, operate and transfer (BOT) basis pursuant to an agreement to be entered into with the selected Investor.The envisaged term of the BOT arrangement is forty-nine (49) years from the commencement of operation of Phase One of the Anaklia Port.
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The port will be constructed in phases: • The first three phases of construction supposes that within 12 years from commencement of theconstruction, annual turnover in the port will reach at least 40 million tons (on 3rd year at least 7 million tons, on the 7th year at least 20 million tons and on the 12th year at least 40 million tons). • The 4th phase and each of the next phases shall commence only after the cargo turnover of the port will have reached 90% of capacity existed by that time. The port will be able to receive a vessel loaded with 6,500 containers. The Government of Georgia will provide to the Investor with up to one thousand (1,000) hectares of land for the Project and necessary hinterland connections (rail, road, utilities. The Government of Georgia shall consider the possibility of establishing a free industrial zone (“FIZ”) for the Anaklia Port, further details of which are to be finalized prior to execution of the Investment Agreement.
Containerization & Logistical Centers Georgia provides significant investment opportunities in the manufacturing sector, which already contributes up to 12% to gross domestic product of the country and, since 2007, has attracted more than $ 1.2 billion in investments.
owner- occupied and the remainder is leasable. The largest share of total leasable space is located in Tbilisi - 61%, with 23% -in Batumi 10%-in Poti and 6%- in Rustavi. From the 627,000 sqm of leasable warehouse supply, 89% is dry storage and 11% cold storage.
This is an opportunity for export oriented manufacturing sectors, for which access to the European market would be attractive. Therefore, together with international and local experts, the Government of Georgia is undertaking a deep analysis of competitive sectors in order to find ways of stimulating investment inflows, attracting new technology and knowhow and creating high value-added production in the country.
The total capacity of cold storage amounts to 243,700 tons. A significant proportion of total leasable warehouse floorspace is classified as Class B (59%) and Class C (39%). Only 2% of total leasable warehouse supply in Georgia can be classified as A class space.
Georgia is uniquely positioned to capitalize on increasing trade flows between Europe, the Caspian Region, Central Asia and China in the foreseeable future. The country offers the shortest route between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea. Georgia’s transport system is a key link in the historic “Silk Road.” Foreseeing the above mentioned, there is a significant opportunity of development of warehouses, containerization and logistical centers. The total volume of warehouse space in Georgia amounts to around 1.8 million sqm, of which around 1.2 million sqm is
The broad categories with the highest occupied space are food and beverage, representing 42% of occupied space in listed warehouses and building materials occupying 14% of stock. Distribution companies take up to 13% of space. The average rent for dry storage A class warehouses in Georgia stands at around USD 11 per sqm net of VAT; the same figure for B class warehouses varies between USD 2.3- 4.7 per sqm and for C class warehouses USD 0.5-2.4 per sqm. The average rent for cold storage facilities in Georgia usually varies between USD 14-17 per ton net of VAT, depending on location and warehouse quality. Source: investingeorgia.org AJARA Life Magazine 67
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Kubdari
Elene Kakabadze Chef Elene has 7-years experience as a cook. She has worked not only for famous local hotels and cafes like Litera, Kikliko and Hotel Terrace, but also for international brands as well, like Biltmore and Ladurée. Elene currently works as the Executive Chef for Ruebush Hospitality Group, which operates cafes and bars such as Blue Elephant Café and Popeye Craft Bar in Batumi. She is an author of astonishing dishes and part of the great experience that visitors will have at these places. 70 AJARA Life Magazine
Kubdari is a bread filled with beef, pork, or a combination of the two flavored with spices such as cumin, dill, coriander, blue fenugreek, red pepper, onions, garlic, and salt. The dough consists of flour, water, yeast, sugar, salt, and eggs. Interestingly, the meat used in this savory pie should be cut, not minced. Kubdari originates from Svaneti, one of the most beautiful mountainous and winter resorts in Georgia.
Elarji What may look like an uncooked dough, erlaji is actually a mix of ground polenta and cheese (heavy on the cheese). It’s heated and stirred constantly to form an incredibly stretchy dough. It’s a chewy, cheesy delight that tastes much better than it looks.
Chikhirtma Chikhirtma is a famous Georgian soup. It is often believed that the soup is the best hangover cure. It consists of chicken pieces, onions, eggs, flour, vinegar, water, and seasonings such as salt, bay leaves, and coriander. It has a slightly sour flavor and a thick, creamy consistency. The soup is usually served hot, and it is recommended to garnish it with freshly chopped coriander.
Churchkhela Churchkhela is made by boiling and thickening the leftovers from the winemaking process. Then walnuts are threaded on a string and dunked in the sweet grape goo, then left to air dry and mature. All the locals call them Georgian snickers as they have a similar texture to the chocolate bar. AJARA Life Magazine 71
Here, Chef Elene shares her recipe for Chakapuli. Mtsvadi (Grilled Pork Skewers with Pomegranate and Onions)
Mtsvadi მწვადი
These Georgian mtsvadi, or grilled meat skewers, are made from well-marbled pork shoulder tossed with raw onions and finished with freshly squeezed pomegranate juice. Leave the fat intact for sizzling, juicy meat with plenty of crispy bits.
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So, prepare your apron and kitchen tools and here we go: In Georgia, the skewers are often grilled over the embers of grape vines. They’re traditionally served with tkemali, a fantastically sour plum sauce. Ingredients 1 KG boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1 1/2-inch chunks 2 medium red onions (1 grated on a box grater and 1 thinly sliced into rings), divided 2 1/2 cups red wine vinegar 2 teaspoons kosher salt, plus more to taste 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste 1/2 cup pomegranate arils Spicy Bell Pepper Jam Sour Plum Sauce
Instructions Stir together pork, grated red onion, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper in large bowl until combined. Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours or up to overnight. Thread pork chunks onto metal skewers; discard marinade. Let pork stand at room temperature 30 minutes. Preheat grill to high (450°F to 550°F). Place pork skewers on oiled grates; grill, covered, turning occasionally, until lightly charred on all sides, 12 to 15 minutes. (Alternatively, broil skewers on high with oven rack 5 inches from heat, turning occasionally, until lightly charred on all sides, 12 to 15 minutes.) Remove pork from skewers, and transfer to a large bowl. With your hands, squeeze pomegranate arils over pork. Add onion slices, and toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve with bell pepper jam and plum sauce.
Bon appetit! AJARA Life Magazine 73
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BEST CASINOS IN TBILISI AND BATUMI
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LIST OF CASINOS IN TBILISI
CASINO ADJARA
SHANGRI-LA
CASINO IVERIA
JEWEL CASINO
LIST OF CASINOS IN BATUMI
ROYAL CASINO
17 Baratashvili St.
GOLDEN PALACE BATUMI
CASINO INTERNATIONAL
PEACE CASINO
CASINO IVERIA
PRINCESS CASINO AJARA Life Magazine 77
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A unique project that has no analogues in Batumi 7 buildings with apartments ranging from 30 m2 to 97 m2 14 villas 2-3 storey with area from 227 m2 to 311 m2
START OF SALES The complex is located on a hill in one of the most picturesque places of Batumi on the way to the famous Sameba Temple.
Contact us:
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. 84 AJARA Life Magazine
salibaurihills.ge +995 (706) 777-134