WEDDING & HONEYMOON IN GEORGIA ZUGDIDI A HISTORICAL CITY IN WEST OF GEORGIA
ALMOST 25 PERCENT MORE TOURISTS VISIT GEORGIA THIS YEAR
RESTAURANTS & BARS GUIDE IN TBILISI
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Content
Zugdidi 10 must see places
The Dadiani Palace Museum Foreign Direct Investments in Georgia up 22% in 2016
Wedding & Honeymoon in Georgia
Skiing & Snowboarding in Georgia Georgia exports over 8m bottles of wine to 32 countries
CHAKHOKHBILI CHICKEN WITH EGGS & HERBS Svanetian Resorts in Georgia Special Thanks to: > GEORGIAN NATIONAL TOURISM ADMINISTRATION > GEORGIAN NATIONAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION > DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM AND RESORTS OF AJARA A. R. > AGENDA.GE
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Almost 25 percent more tourists visit Georgia this year
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ZUGDIDI A HISTORICAL CITY IN
WEST OF GEORGIA
The city is the capital of the Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti region, which combines Samegrelo (Mingrelia) and Svaneti. The name “Zugdidi” means “big/great hill” in Laz and Mingrelian. Zugdidi served as the capital of the principality of Mingrelia (Odishi) until 1867, when the principality was abolished by the Russian Empire. In 1993 the administration of the first President of Georgia, Zviad Gamsakhurdia, was here. Get in Trains run to Tbilisi and all stops on the way. Night trains are also available, and are the most popular way to get from Tbilisi to Zugdidi, since the marshrutkas to Mestia are coordinated with them. Arrival in Zugdidi is at 6:30AM. Marshrutkas and buses are also available to most major cities in Georgia.
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The name “Zugdidi” first appears in XVII century. Literally it means “big hill” in Mingrelian language. An alternative version of the name recorded in old sources is “Zubdidi” with same meaning from Megrelian.
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THE DADIANI PALACE MUSEUM
A BEAUTIFUL MANSION FULL OF HISTORY TO DISCOVER.
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Dadiani Palaces Historical and Architectural Museum in Zugdidi, West Georgia, Samegrelo region, was established in 1921 and contains 41000 items. The museum complex includes: palaces of the Samegrelo queen Ekaterine Chavchavadze-Dadiani and Prince Niko Dadiani, court church, and the botanic garden. In 1850 Prince David Dadiani organized museum in the palace and displayed unique numismatic materials from the present day village Nokalakevi, the antique period town and Dadiani family collections of medieval European armor and weapons, ethnographic objects and fine art.
At the present in the museum are kept: samples of the I c. B.C. – XIX A.D. goldsmith works: icons, various religious objects, fine art samples; archaeological materials from Greek and Georgian antique culture; collection of Christian sacred objects, samples of European applied art (of Boulet, Rococo, Empire styles); relics of Samegrelo princes, royal families of France (numerous items connected with the Napoleon Buonaparte, from Ashil Miurat – Son in law of David Dadiani), Russia, Spain; XV-XIX c.c. manuscripts and charters; libraries of Napoleon (6.000 items) and Dadiani family; samples of European and Asian weapons; collection of paintings of Russian peredvizhniks, French painters of battle-pieces, and English painters of seascapes; rich collection of photographs (5.000 items); collection of crystal, china and faience crockery (French, German, Russian), etc.
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ZUGDIDI
10 MUST SEE PLACES The city is the capital of the Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti region, which combines Samegrelo (Mingrelia) and Svaneti. The name “Zugdidi” means “big/great hill” in Laz and Mingrelian. Zugdidi served as the capital of the principality of Mingrelia (Odishi) until 1867, when the principality was abolished by the Russian Empire. In 1993 the administration of the first President of Georgia, Zviad Gamsakhurdia, was here.
1. DADIANI PALACE HISTORY AND ARCHITECTURAL MUSEUM
In 1839 David Dadiani founded his family’s museum. The museum is one of the oldest in the Caucasus region, and currently houses more than 41,000 items, ranging from the second millennium BC to the end of the 19th century AD. Some of the most interesting items include Napoleon’s death mask dated 1833, a Napoleonic library of several hundred volumes, private letters, and Napoleonic silver and chinaware.
2. GANMUKHURI AND ANAKLIA (BLACK SEA RESORTS)
Ganmukhuri and Anaklia are two Black Sea resorts connected to each other by a 552 meter pedestrian bridge. The resorts attract tourists for their sandy beaches, peaceful boulevards, hotels, water parks, and yacht clubs. GeorgianDay Magazine 23
ZUGDIDI
10 MUST SEE PLACES 3.KOLKHETI NATIONAL PARK
The National Park was created in order to protect and maintain the Kolkheti wetland ecosystems, which are of international importance. The Kolkheti National Park Administration offers boat tours on lake Paliastomi and river Pichori, as well as sport fishing, bird watching and eco-educational tours. Tours are carried out throughout the year.
5. THE KHOBI MONASTERY
The Khobi Monastery dates back to the 13th-14th centuries, it is located in the village of Nojikhevi, some 30 kilometers from Zugdidi. The church is decorated with beautiful frescos and wall ornaments. During the middle ages the Khobi Monastery served as the seat of the Catholicos Patriarch of Georgia. This area is particularly attractive for tourist interested in archaeology.
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4. THE SWINGING ROCK – “KUAKANTSALIA”
This rock stands on the limestone massif in Tsalenjikha - 27 kilometers from Zugdidi. What makes this particular place so special is that a simple touch of a human hand is enough to make this giant rock shake and create loud knocking sounds. Location: Tsalenjikha.
6. SKURI
The resort is well-known for its mineral water “Skuri”, which has medicinal properties. Within the beautiful Skuri valley, you will also find the “White Fortress” dating back to the 1st–3rd centuries.
The name “Zugdidi” means “big/great hill” in Laz and Mingrelian. 7. COMPLEX OF “OTSINDALE”
The Otsindale complex is situated 640 meters above the sea level, overlooking the beautiful Kolkhetivalley. The complex combines a church, which dates back to the 11th century, and a tower, which was constructed around the 8th century. Location: village of Taia (45 kilometers from Zugdidi)
9. CANYON OF INTSRA
The cave is located within the basin of the river Instra; inside the cave you will find numerous stalactites, stalagmites and helictites. The water flowing out of the cave creates a 26 meter high beautiful waterfall. Location: village of Chkvalevi, municipality of Tsalenjikha
8. SHURUBUMU
Shurubumu is an enchanting wonder of the natural world. The area is covered with lush green moss and thousand-year old buxus trees. You will also find a cave in the area, with numerous stalactites and stalagmites.
10. INGURI HYDROPOWER PLANT
Inguri dam is the second highest concrete arch dam in the world. It was built in the 1970s as part of the Inguri Hydropower Plant. Location: north of the town of Jvari. GeorgianDay Magazine 25
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WEDDING & HONEYMOON IN GEORGIA Fall is the most bright and colourful season. Traditionally it is considered to be the best for weddings and honeymoons, or just for a romantic trip together. Why not to choose Georgia as a destination for such a special trip? Everything here is radiating with love and energy; beautiful nature and ancient monuments are yearning to be captured as a background at your photo with your loved one. Natural diversity and wide range of activities can guarantee any kind of vacation: from relaxing romantic tete-a-tete up to more active holidays together. So called Indian summer is a great time for scheduling your wedding or honeymoon. Want to start your official family life in an unforgettable way, experience emotional moments together without traveling the world and the seven seas? Georgia is your best option then. Not just because you can register your marriage 24/7 in so called city of love, Sighnaghi. Love lives in every corner of Georgia, if you look carefully. And you can find a corner for yourself!
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For extreme lovers Together in the air, on the ground and under the ground? Easy. Try paragliding in Kazbegi or Gudauri, have an off road drive in Udabno semi desert, explore the down part of Okatse Canyon, swim in the mountainous rivers or try rafting on them. Finally, book the wedding ceremony in one of halls of Prometheus Cave! Your feelings have never been deeper. For romance lovers Get lost and find yourself on the cobbled tiny streets of Old Tbilisi, have a funicular and Ferris wheel on Mtatsminda mount, and have a nice portion of typical Tbilsii doughnuts and Laghidze waters in a restaurant on the top. Head to Kakheti, enjoy tete-a-tete on one of the lake resorts, walk on the stone paved streets of Sighnaghi, that town where brides and grooms are welcome anytime, taste wine in the small wineries or check out the cellar of Chavchavadze mansion in Tsinandali.
It all depends on your wish, and we are sure that Georgia will amuse and surprise you, so that you will never forget that fantastic time here!
Look at the stars in the astrophysical observatory of Abastumani. Go to Batumi, learn more about love story of Ali and Nino, find all the love sculptures, and once again declare your feelings to your special one, sitting at the shore and watching sun drowning in the Black Sea. For nature lovers So, you love mountains and simple life? Kazbegi and Juta villages wait for you, doesn’t matter if you want to stay for 1-2 days or hike the whole week. If you also enjoy the stories about brave warriors and want to see real medieval towers, go to Khevsureti or Svaneti, where legends are part of daily life. Svan towers are also included to the List of UNESCO World Heritage. National Parks Kintrishi and Mtirala in Ajara will make you feel like in a Tarzan movie in their subtropical jungle and green forests. So, choose what you like most, and go for it!
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WEDDING & HONEYMOON IN GEORGIA For food lovers Dear friends who love eating and cooking, you have just found a place to be! Travel from East to West of Georgia, and feel the diversity. Of course, khachapuri will remain your true satellite, but be sure that in the East you have tried juicy boiled beef brisket (khashlama), meat barbeque (mtsvadi), stewed lamb with vegetables and spices (chakapuli), spinach and greens stuffed pie (pkhlovani), buffalo matsoni, which is made only in Mzisguli village in Kakheti, Pasanaurian khinkali and, of course, fresh Kakhetian churchkhela and pelamushi.
In the West you should taste tender cheese in milk-and-mint sauce (gebzhalia), boiled samp with cheese (elarji), different kinds of greens mixed with walnut sauce (pkhali), milky cheeses and super spicy Megrelian Ajika, lasagna with cheese (achma), borano (Ajarian omelette)… Book or ask your host about a master class in Georgian cuisine, learn how to prepare things yourself. Buy spices and sauces on small local markets to bring Georgian aroma and taste to your home! For relax lovers Add Tbilisi sulfur baths to your must visit list, to relax your body and experience real Georgia. Try Kakhetian wine spa or treat yourself at any of Kakhetian lake resorts: Lopota or Kvareli. Another smart decision is to go to Borjomi to relax in one of spa hotels or even guest houses there. Try one of the most effective mineral waters of the world, which is the most famous Georgian water ever. In the city park you can drink it from two springs, and in the hotels experienced medical staff will heal your body with this magic natural mean.
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For history lovers There are so many churches and historical objects in Georgia – those, who are interested in ancient times, will be definitely interested. You can feel like in an adventure novel or history book, as you explore cave town Vardzia or Rabati fortress, where so many cultures are melted together. Gelati and Svetitskhoveli cathedrals will impress you not just with magnificent frescoes, but also with amazing views around. 1000-years-old church in Katskhi and tiny Jvari cathedral on the hilltop near Mtskheta, city walls of Sighnaghi and arch bridges of Ajara – all this can become the decoration for your honeymoon, if you decide to spend it in Georgia. Try Georgian national costumes on, or be true to your style – your vacation together will be really unforgettable!
Natural diversity and wide range of activities can guarantee any kind of vacation: from relaxing romantic tete-a-tete up to more active holidays together. GeorgianDay Magazine 31
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GEORGIA T I S I V O T WAY T THE BES We bring new European standards to the travel industry in the Caucasus region. World Sightseeing Tour makes holidays affordable for everybody. Our prices are not a little bit cheaper - most of our packages are half of the market price Are you looking for a truly unique tour, something absolutely new and at the same time as old as ancient Greece? Then WST & CitySightseeing Tbilisi has all what you are looking for – a isit to and incredible land of Georgia and the outh Caucasus. The country of Golden Fleece, a birthplace of wine, fascinating dance and polyphonic songs, a place where there are no hosts and no guests, where all can travel to discover something special, without which life would be incomplete. You can visit, see and feel, fulfill your dreams, make your trip a magnificent adventure, meet people connecting old culture and traditions with ultramodern life, locals with great soul and a great instinct of ancient hospitality. Do you want active or relaxing vacancy in absolutely new surrounding in multi climate Caucasus Region? Reach Georgian, Armenian and Azerbaijani icy peaks or stay in relaxing comfortable hotels on a seaside. Choose any tour with our travel agency and use your opportunity to make your
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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
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Ananuri, Zhinvali Lake, Kazbegi mountains
Meeting Point: Citysightseeing Tbilisi Office Duration of tour: 10:00-19:00
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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!
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Meeting Point: Citysightseeing Tbilisi Office Duration of tour: 09:00-21:00
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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
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85 GEL
Bagrati Cathedral, Gelaty Monastic Complex Motsameta Monastery Prometheus cave
GORI-UPLISTSIKHE OLD TOWNS
DAVID GAREJI MONASTERY COMLEX
BOOK YOUR TRIP IN ADVANCE!
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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
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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.)
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QATAR AIRWAYS INCREASES FLIGHT FREQUENCY BETWEEN DOHA AND TBILISI
Qatar Airways will serve additional Doha-Tbilisi-Doha flights from May 1. Qatar Airways, the state-owned flag carrier of Qatar, is increasing flight frequency to Georgia to deal with steadily increasing demand. From May 1, Qatar Airways will add additional Doha-Tbilisi-Doha flights and perform regular flights two times a day. The new flights still need to be approved by Georgian Civil Aviation Agency. Georgia’s Ministry of Economy announced that Qatar Airways will apply to the agency “in the coming days”.
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Flights on the route Doha-Tbilisi-Doha will be performed by Airbus 320 type aircraft. Meanwhile, Qatar Airways is celebrating its five-year anniversary of entering the Georgian market. As Senior Manager Commercial - Eastern Europe Giovanni Simonini said, this five-year operation in Georgia was successful and fruitful. Qatar Airways entered the Georgian market in February 2012. (Source: Agenda.ge)
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FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENTS IN GEORGIA UP 22% IN 2016
Georgia attracted $1.64 million in FDIs in 2016. Georgia attracted $1.64 million in Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs) in 2016, show preliminary data released today by the National Statistics Office of Georgia (Geostat). FDI’s last year were up 22 percent from the preliminary data of 2015, and five percent from the adjusted data of the same year, said Geostat. The top three countries that invested the most in Georgia in 2016 were: • Azerbaijan (35 percent) • Turkey (17 percent) • United Kingdom (seven percent) Three sectors of the Georgian economy enjoyed 61 percent of all FDIs: the largest share of FDIs ($645 million) was allocated to the transport and communications sector, followed by the energy sector ($203 million) then the construction sector ($163 million). Geostat noted the adjusted data of 2016 will be published on August 15, 2017. (Source: Agenda.ge)
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FDI BY MAJOR INVESTOR COUNTRIES IN 2016. PRELIMINARY DATA BY GEOSTAT.
FDI BY MAJOR ECONOMIC SECTORS IN 2016. PRELIMINARY DATA BY GEOSTAT.
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GEORGIA EXPORTS OVER 8M BOTTLES OF WINE TO 32 COUNTRIES
Georgia has sold $40.1million worth of alcoholic beverages in January-February 2017. Wine exports also increased to the European Union (EU), to China and other traditional export markets for Georgia, said the Georgian National Wine Agency.
Georgia exported 8,777,275 bottles of wine to 32 countries in January-February 2017, bringing in $20.5 million to the economy. Revenue increased by 91 percent in comparison to January-February of 2016, while the volume of exports increased by 94 percent, said the Georgian National Wine Agency. The top five countries that imported Georgian wine in January-February 2017 were: • Russia – 5,717,289 bottles • Ukraine – 859,756 bottles • China – 832,552 bottles • Kazakhstan – 389,040 bottles • Poland – 312,650 bottles
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This year exports of Georgian wine increased to: • United States – 3206 percent (31,740 bottles) • China – 280 percent (832,552 bottles) • Canada – 238 percent (24,360 bottles) • Germany – 151 percent (86,374 bottles) • Russia – 123 percent (5,717,289 bottles) • Latvia – 85 percent (183,720 bottles) • Kazakhstan – 15 percent (389,040 bottles) • Ukraine – 32 percent (859,756 bottles) Meanwhile, Georgia exported 2,162,305 bottles of Georgia-made brandy to nine countries in the first two months of 2017. This was a 51 percent increase year-over-year (y/y). So far this year Georgia has generated $5.2 million from the sale of brandy abroad. In total, Georgia has sold $40.1million worth of alcoholic beverages in January-February 2017, including wine, brandy, chacha and others.. . (Source: Agenda.ge)
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ALMOST 25 PERCENT MORE TOURISTS VISIT GEORGIA THIS YEAR Georgia’s attractiveness as a tourist destination is increasing, suggest data from January and February of this year. In the first two months of 2017 alone, 294,000 tourists* spent time in the country, making for a 24.3 percent increase year-over-year (y/y). Overall, 755,080 international travellers (tourists, transit, other) visited Georgia in the first two months of 2017 – 10.5 percent more compared to the same period in 2016. Tourism is one of our country’s main priorities and a number of governmental agencies are involved in its development process”, said Georgia’s Deputy Economy Minister Ketevan Bochorishvili today, while summarising the January-February tourism statistics. Every single tourists who comes to our country makes a positive impact on the development of the private sector, employment and revenue growth. Our goal is for Georgia to become a four-season tourism destination. Taking into account the tourism data of January-February, we should consider that tourists are actively interested in Georgia’s winter resorts”, she added.
• • •
Poland - 30 percent increase Bulgaria - 29 percent increase France - 19 percent increase
Also, a higher number (26 percent increase) of tourists came to Georgia from the United Kingdom, mentioned Bochorishvili. Exceptional growth in visitor numbers was recorded from the following countries: • Iran – 438 percent increase • Uzbekistan - 211 percent increase • India - 129 percent increase • Israel - 65 percent increase • China - 38 percent increase • Russia – 36 percent increase The deputy minister also said that in February of 2017 alone Georgia hosted 368,010 international travellers (2.1 percent growth y/y) and 139,918 tourists (16.4 percent growth y/y).
The highest number of visitors who came to Georgia in January-February 2017 were from Azerbaijan, Armenia, Turkey, Russia and Ukraine.
[The high number of tourists] is a result of a well-guided marketing campaign which our country has been actively implementing during the past several years. The government strives to raise awareness of Georgia abroad and make the country a popular tourism destination. As a result international tourism revenue reached $1.7 billion in the first three quarters (Q3) of 2016, which was $177 million or 11.7 percent more than in the same period of 2015”, said Bochorishvili.
A positive trend was also maintained by visitors from the European Union: • Germany - 35 percent increase
Ed. - *Tourists are considered individuals that spend more than 24 hours in the country. (Source: Agenda.ge)
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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.
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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
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SKIING & SNOWBOARDING
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
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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!
WINTER IN GEORGIA 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) GeorgianDay Magazine 51
SVANETIAN RESORTS
WHITE RESORT OF GEORGIA
Surrounded by mighty 5000 m peaks, Svaneti is one of Georgia’s most historic and unique areas and a real skiers’ dream.
summertime holiday destination. Nowadays most tourists are looking to the mountains, not to the valleys.
Until recently, Svaneti was best known for its superb house-towers, most of them dating back to the 12-13th centuries, which line the valleys and served as look-out posts against the threat of invasion. Those towers belong to UNESCO World Heritage List. This corner of Georgia is so authentic and beautiful, that it’s not surprising that it’s been a popular
In Svaneti, there are two modern white resorts: Hatsvali and Tetnuldi. The first one started operating several years ago. It is located in 8 km from the central village of Svaneti, Mestia. The upper cable car station is located on Mount Zuruldi (2347 m). The difference in altitude is 482 m. Currently, there are three runs: red (1900 m), blue (2600 m) and the trail for beginners (300 m).
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Basically, skiers of every level can enjoy one of the world’s most picturesque resorts. As the resort grows and develops, it is also possible to find tailor-made ski-tours, one or two-day trips to take you to places never skied before. The second biggest winter resort (after Gudauri), Tetnuldi, is going to be opened in December 2015. It is located at the same-name mountain. Three POMA lifts will deliver you to an altitude from 1600 m to 3165 m. The trails have different difficulty level; the longest one is 9.5 km. As the resort is
very young, the accommodation and après-ski is still in process of development. But as Tetnuldi is close to Mestia, it is possible to go there with bus or taxi every day and stay in Mestia overnight. When you’re not skiing, enjoy your time exploring Mestia, local cuisine and a great museum, a treasure trove of exquisite icons and artifacts gathered from Svaneti’s many remote churches and villages, preserved in this natural mountain fortress from centuries of pillagers. (Source: Georgia.Travel) GeorgianDay Magazine 53
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GIORGI MACHARASHVILI
THE BRIGHTEST YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS IN THE RESTAURANT AND BAR INDUSTRY 1. Please introduce yourself and your business. My name is Giorgi Macharashvili, I’m 26, I’m Georgian, who moved to Tbilisi 5 years ago. In Georgia I’m engaged into business activities. Currently I am owner of McLaren’s Pub, and a co-owner of BLACKDOG bar, as well as of the GEOCRAFT brewery. 2. How did you start this business and what motivated you? In 2011, I sold my online business, since I really wished to change my activity in business, while catering seemed very attractive to me by the fact, that you deal with guests directly, and not via the Internet. In the beginning of 2012, we found a space in the heart of the city, and began to build our first project – MacLaren’s Pub. There was also an idea of creating a friendly pub atmosphere in the center of Tbilisi. The main motivation for our team and for me personally are - the visitors’ reviews and feedbacks, since they give further energy to continue working in this area.
without any experience in this field, made a lot of mistakes, also there were no live music or karaoke. When you’re a newbie in the market, you need to dramatically tack in order to find which way to move on. And, finally, the main problem are the people (staff). The most important factor is the selection of right people. Now I can say that I am very lucky to work with wonderful people, I really love my team. 5. Why do your customers select you over your competitors? Well, firstly, we have a very stable and permanent staff. This is a team. There are permanent faces, which is a very important fact for guests; when you visit a place, and everyone already knows you, you feel «like at home». Secondly, of course, is the kitchen. Our employers are real professionals; we carefully and continuously work over each new dish. In the third place – the entertainment, quality music and karaoke.
3. Did you have any business background before starting up? Sure, until 2011, my company had been engaged in the sale of computer games via the Internet in the territory of Russia, Poland and the Czech Republic. After 4 years of spending at the computer, I decided to sell the company, change my activities, and start providing people with food and drinks =)
6. Do you have any plan to expand your branches with different kind of cuisines? If yes, what type of cuisines Georgia will see in future? At the moment, we are working on our own craft brewery and are already looking for a space to open our brand craft bar with a real grill menu. In the future, of course, I want to go further and try to make an author’s gastropub, offering the author’s kitchen.
4. What are the major challenges that you faced with or still you are facing with? The first year was very tough for us, because we opened
7. If you want to change anything in food and beverage industry, what would you change? Generally, the service quality.
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8. Where do you see your business in future? Later I want to grow and develop in this direction, opening quality places of different concepts to delight people with new experience. 9. What do you recommend to your customers and GeorgianDay readers to try in your restaurants? You need to try absolutely everything =) (I’m joking). Actually, we are very sensitive about this issue - the kitchen. Well, regarding the last nova, I would recommend Irish Beef Stew in MacLaren’s, and, of course, our BDB Special Burger in Black Dog Bar.
10. And at the end, please tell us about your hobbies, and what you would have been if you were not in this field of Food Industry? I just adore cooking. There was a time when I used to work as a second cook in MacLaren’s. It helped me get my hand in it, and now, not a single dish is cooked without my interference. =) When I have some spare time, I go out to play football. I can not even imagine myself in any other industry, I am in love with the catering, but, if it had not happened in Georgia, probably I would have stayed in sales. GeorgianDay Magazine 57
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CAVEA CINEMAS NEW MOVIES IN MARCH
NOW IN CAVEA CINEMAS CAVEA TBILISI MALL & CAVEA EAST POINT
www.cavea.ge
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Spinach Pkhali
SPINACH AND WALNUT DIP WITH POMEGRANATE Ingredients 500g spinach, rinsed but not dried, and thick stems removed 150g walnuts 2 fat cloves of garlic, peeled 2 heaped tablespoons each coriander/cilantro and tarragon ¼ tsp ground coriander 1/8 – 1/4 tsp ground fenugreek 1 tbsp white wine vinegar OR 1 tbsp pomegranate molasses + ¼ tsp white wine vinegar ¼ tsp ground paprika – hot or sweet Hungarian 4 spring onions, trimmed and finely chopped Seeds from one pomegranate
Instructions Firstly, completely wilt the spinach in a large covered pan, stirring once or twice to get the upper leaves closer to the steamy water. Drain well in a colander, pressing to remove as much water as possible. Now pop the spinach onto a clean tea towel and squeeze it well. Chop it as finely as possible. You want the spinach to have some texture so please don’t blast it in a
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food processor. Georgians recommend that you use a meat grinder. As you wish. Pop the chopped spinach into a mixing bowl and set aside. Now is the time for your food processor or blender. Put the remaining ingredients – bar the extra garnish herbs, onion, salt and pomegranate seeds – in the bowl of the processor/blender and blitz with a tablespoon of water until it is the consistency of mayonnaise. Stir this pale sauce into the spinach, adding the spring onions and enough salt to taste – because it is vegan taste rather than guess. Maybe add some white pepper if you didn’t use the hot paprika. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least six hours. When ready to serve, invert the spinach pkhali onto a serving plate and shape into a mound, scoring with a diamond pattern for an authentic looking dish. Top with herbs and pomegranate seeds. Or, do as I have done: either just as a thick cake of dip garnished with herbs and seeds, or for something a little more party-minded, shape into little balls and then roll into chopped coriander and tarragon, and top with pomegranate seeds. Serve with country-style or dark bread, or melba toasts made from these. This is lovely with a plate of coriander seed and balsamic vinegar-marinated beets.
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13 SHAVTELI ST. BEFORE SHANGRI LA CASINO, NEXT TO AMBASADORI HOTEL, TBILISI
LOBIO
GEORGIAN BEAN DISH IN A CLAY POT.
Ingredients
400 grams of dried red kidney beans 100 grams of onions 50 grams of fresh green coriander (optional) 2 cloves of garlic A pinch of dried coriander Half spoon of dried Blue Fenugreek 3 bay leaves, 1 tsp black pepper Salt 70 grams of oil
Instructions Soak beans in cold water for two hours prior to cooking. Drain water and add beans, bay leaves and salt to a deep pot containing 1.5 liters of water. Cook on a medium heat until the beans are tender. Chop the fresh coriander and onions.
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Add fresh and dried coriander, Blue Fenugreek, garlic, black pepper and a pinch of salt to a mortar. Grind the ingredients with a pestle. Fry the chopped onions in a pan of hot oil. Drain the water from the cooked kidney beans but keep 200 milliliters in a separate jug to use later. Use the back of a wooden spoon to mash the beans on the side of the pot. Add the ingredients that were crushed in a mortar, together with fried onions and the oil they were fried in. Mash all ingredients until completely mixed, add the 200 milliliters of bean water (saved when draining the beans). Transfer the ingredients to a pot and cook on a medium heat for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. We baked ours in individual clay pots in the oven.
Serving: Serve hotWe served ours in individual clay pots with the traditional accompaniment, Mchadi (Georgian Cornbread). Enjoy your lobio!
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IMPRATOR CLUB
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+995 555 58 66 88 | FB/BLACK DOG BAR TBILISI 33 LADO ASATIANI ST. TBILISI, GEORGIA
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TReasuRe The momenTs! CombinaTion of YouR besT fRiends, fResh CRafT beeR and spiRiT in maClaRean’s iRish pub.
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+995 555 65 46 46 | Rkinis Rigi 5 (shaRdeni) Tbilisi mon - sun | 3:00 pm - 3:00 am
enjoy a tradItIonal IrIsh Pub atMosPhere and have a PInt of Ireland’s faMous
‘MurPhy’s IrIsh stout’,
along wIth england’s favorIte
‘newcastle brown ale’.
as for the cuIsIne, you can have all sorts of culInary delIghts, startIng froM roast Pork shank to chef’s sPecIal bbQ rIbs, wIde varIety of steaks and Many Many More.
Maclaren’s IrIsh Pub Lunch | Dinner | coffee anD Drinks | Live music | karaoke +995 555 65 46 46 | rkinis rigi 5 (sharDeni) TbiLisi mon - sun, 3:00 pm - 3:00 am
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Oxygen Bar Bar 18th-floor, Radisson Blu Hotel, Tbilisi.
Seidabadi Restaurant Eastern Restaurant (HALAL) 1 Gorgasali St. (Meidan) Tbilisi. Tel: +995 599 41 58 15 72 GeorgianDay Magazine
RESTAURANTS & BARS GUIDE SCAN QR CODE & GET MORE INFO ABOUT RESTAURANT OR BAR MENU VIDEO PICTURES LOCATION MAP ONLINE RESERVATION FOOD & DRINK OFFERS
Vinotel Restaurant Georgian cuisine. #4 Elene Akhvediani Ascent. Tbilisi. Tel: (+995) 032 2555 888
MacLaren’s Pub Irish Pub 5 Rkinis Rigi (Chardin) Tel: +995 555 65 46 46
Mepetubani Restaurant Georgian Restaurant 3 Erekle II square. Tbilisi. Tel: +995 598 77 09 68
Siang-gan Restaurant Chinese Restaurant 41 Gamsaxurdia Ave. (Gagarini sq.) Tel: +995 32 237 96 88 GeorgianDay Magazine 73
The Kitchen Italian, French Restaurant 14 Merab Kostava St, 0108, Tbilisi
Tiflis Palace Restaurant International Restaurant 3, Gorgasali str., 0105, Tbilisi
Picasso Restaurant Chinese Restaurant 4 Miminoshvili St. Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 298 90 86 74 GeorgianDay Magazine
RESTAURANTS & BARS GUIDE SCAN QR CODE & GET MORE INFO ABOUT RESTAURANT OR BAR
The Terrace International Restaurant Radisson Blu Iveria Hotel, Tbilisi
Mercure Tbilisi Old Town International Cuisine 9 Vakhtang Gorgasali St. Tbilisi.
Adjara Restaurant International Cuisine 1 Twentysix May Square. Tbilisi.
Buffet (Doors Group) Italian Cuisine 31 I. Abashidze St. Tbilisi.
Funicular Restaurant International & Georgian Cuisine Mtatsminda plateau, Tbilisi.
Shadow of Metekhi Georgian Cuisine 29a Tsamebuli Ave. Tbilisi.
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Best NightClub in Tbilisi
EL CENTRO, Shardeni
SAFE CLUB, Shardeni
SENATE CLUB, No.5 Mishveladze St.
NIGHT OFFICE CLUB, Baratashvili Brdge.
NINE CLUB, Sololaki, Europe Square
UNIQUE CLUB, Bambis Rigi St.
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Refresh Your Life with Non - Stop 24 Hours Music Radio
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