Infotainment & Tourist Guide Magazine | www.GeorgianDay.com | +995 55 888 9191 | Vol.3 | Issue: 21 | August 2018
BATUMI
WHERE TO GO IN BATUMI?
“PEARL OF THE BLACK SEA” WHY DO TOURISTS VISIT GEORGIA AND
HOW MUCH DO THEY SPEND?
RESTAURANTS & BARS GUIDE IN TBILISI
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T HE LARGEST EN TERTAINMENT
C ENTER IN G E OR G I A
Unique Concept - built entirely around the circus theme More than 70 attractions Thematic Family Restaurant Party Rooms for magic birthday celebrations GeorgianDay Magazine 5
Content
Batumi “Pearl of the Black Sea”
Wine tour in mountainous Ajara WEATHER and SEASONALITY in Batumi
attractions of seaside ajara
Why do tourists visit Georgia and how much do they spend? Buy Georgian Railway tickets through new mobile app
RESTAURANTS & BARS GUIDE in Tbilisi Shurpa Lamb and Vegetable Soup 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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The Third Official Ceremony of the Welcome to Georgia!
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BATUMI
“PEARL OF THE BLACK SEA” Batumi the “Pearl of the Black Sea,” as it is often called is located in the autonomous republic of Adjara. European architects undertook numerous projects in Batumi at the beginning of the 20th century, and today it remains a hub of architectural innovation. One of the most beautiful regions in Georgia, Adjara is situated in southwest Georgia on the Black Sea coastline. Turkey borders Adjara to the south. Adjara’s visitors especially admire the region’s pristine and unaltered nature, and it is particularly intriguing for eco tourists.
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1. Beaches of Adjara Adjara is home to the picturesque beaches of Batumi, Kvariati, Sarpi, Gonio, Tsikhisdziri, Mtsvane Kontskhi (the Green Cape) and Kobuleti. In the summertime, the beaches are filled with tourists enjoying their holidays. Adjara’s beach towns offer well developed infrastructure and fresh, healthy air.
2. Old Batumi One of the oldest cities in Georgia, Batumi was founded in the 8th century, but the initial settlement, Batus, is mentioned in texts that date back to the 4th century BC. Batumi’s interesting historical past has considerably influenced the architectural diversity of city (a number of projects were completed by European architects during the Porto Franco period). Old Batumi’s most historical part is stretched between the seaport and the Boulevard, and features distinctive building facades and balconies. 3. Batumi Boulevard Construction of the 7 km seaside boardwalk begun in 1881 by the famous Prussian gardener and landscape architect Ressler. Two years after the project began, Ressler passed away and Michael D’alfons, a French architect, completed the boulevard. Recently, a Spanish architect designed and constructed a new, modern addition for the boulevard. The coastal line of the boulevard has been beautified with bungalows, café-lounges, restaurants, children’s attractions, benches, sculptures and dancing fountains—making it one of the city’s most attractive tourist destinations.
4. Batumi Botanical Garden Boasting one of the widest varieties of flora in the world, the Batumi Botanical Garden was established in 1912 by the prominent botanist and geographer Andrey Krasnov. The garden is 111 hectares and contains flora from nine phyto-geographic areas: East Asia, North America, New Zealand, South America, the Himalayas, Mexico, Australia, the Mediterranean, and the Caucasian humid subtropics. Visitors can wander the botanical garden by foot or in carts, which can be rented from the garden’s administration. 5. Dolphinarium Located within the 6th of May Park, the Batumi Dolphinarium is one of the most-visited tourist attractions in Batumi. The affordably priced and wildly entertaining dolphin show is done in Georgian, Russian, and English. With its construction beginning in 1881, the 6th of May Park is one of Georgia’s oldest public parks. In addition to the Dolphinarium, the 6th of May Park has an aquarium, zoo and amusement rides for children. The park also sells tickets for a relaxing boat tour on Nurigeli Lake.
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BATUMI
“PEARL OF THE BLACK SEA” 6. Piazza Batumi Piazza Batumi is one of the most beautiful squares in Georgia. There are several hotels, cafés, and restaurants located on Piazza Batumi. In just a few short years, the square has become a popular international entertainment venue. It has recently hosted concerts by famous Georgian and foreign performers, including Placido Domingo, Chris Botti, Sting, Macy Grey, Michel Legrand and Tamar Gverdtsiteli.
7. Argo Entertainment Center and Batumi Cable Car 2 km of cable car link Batumi’s waterfront with the Argo Entertainment Center development on Anuria Mountain, sitting at 250 meters above sea level. The complex offers spectacular views of the town, the Black Sea, and the surrounding mountains. The center includes restaurants, cafes, retail shops, open air halls, and roof terraces.
One of the most beautiful regions in Georgia, Adjara is situated in southwest Georgia on the Black Sea coastline. 18 GeorgianDay Magazine
8. Gonio-Apsaros Fortress Gonio-Apsaros Fortress is located 12 km south of Batumi, on the left bank of the River Chorokhi. One of the Georgia’s most ancient settlements was located around this fortress. Due to its strategic location, Gonio-Apsaros became a supporting citadel first for the Romans and later to the Byzantines and Ottomans along the eastern Black Sea coastline. Respectively, the fortress has several layers: the Roman layer (3rd-4th cc BC), the Byzantine layer (6th-7th cc AD) and the Ottoman layer (16th c AD). The history of Gonio-Apsaros fortress references the myth of Jason and the Argonauts. According to the legend, King Aeetes buried his son Apsaros, who was killed by Jason as he fled, in the territory of Gonio. According to some sources, Mathias, one of the 12 disciples of Jesus Christ, is believed to be buried here. There is a museum inside the fortress.
9. Makhuntseti Waterfall Makhuntseti waterfall is located near the town of Keda, at 335 meters above sea level. Near the waterfall several picnic sites are available for visitors. While visiting the waterfall it is also possible to visit nearby tourist attractions, including the ancient arched stone Makhuntseti Bridge, Adjarian wine houses, and private wine cellars scattered throughout Keda Municipality. 10. Skhalta Monastery Skhalta Monastery is located in Khulo Municipality, the highest, most mountainous part of Adjara. The main building of the complex is Skhalta Church of the Virgin. It is a single-nave, hall-like church. Judging from its artistic and stylistic peculiarities, it is speculated that Skhalta Monastery was built during the mid-13th cent. The churches notable frescoes were painted in the 14th and 15th centuries. (Source: georgia.travel)
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ATTRACTIONS OF SEASIDE AJARA Tsikhisdziri Distance from Batumi: 17 km Best time to visit: Summer, Autumn Tsikhisdziri resort is located 17 km north of Batumi, 60-90 meters above sea level. The main attraction of Tsikhisdziri is its unique mixture of sea and mountain climates. Summers are rather cool and winters are relatively warm in comparison with Batumi or Makhinjauri. The territory has been settled since ancient times. It used to be a historical city-fortress in western Georgia, namely of the Egrisi Kingdom, due to its military strategic and economically favorable location. In the VI century AD, Byzantine Emperor Justinian built the city of Petra. A narrow coastal road passed through the city territory connecting western Georgian to Byzantium, Iran and Armenia. Many rest houses, restaurants and cafes are located throughout the green slopes and beautiful parks and gardens of Tsikhisdziri. The beach is comfortable and boat rentals are available.
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Sarpi Distance from Batumi: 18 km Best time to visit: Summer, Autumn Sarpi is located 18 km south of Batumi, near the Georgia-Turkey border. Sarpi is a very popular beachside destination. The water is very clear on the resort’s coastline, and the seaside attractions there are very attractive. The average water temperature is +25oC. Hotels and hotel-type cottages are located very close to the beach. Mountain and sea air make for an ideal climate and create a welcoming atmosphere. Also, vacationers can visit the Laz Ethnographic Museum and the historic Church of St. Andrew.
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The coastline of Ajara is a favorite destination among tourists visiting Georgia and is famous for its numerous resort areas.
Kobuleti Distance from Batumi: 25 km Best time to visit: Summer, Autumn
Kvariati Distance from Batumi: 15 km Best time to visit: Summer, Autumn Kvariati is located 15 km South of Batumi, near the Georgia-Turkey border. It is an excellent destination for those looking for a seaside getaway. The water is very clear on the resort’s coastline, and the seaside attractions there are very attractive. The average water temperature is 25oC. Hotels and hotel-type cottages are located very close to the beach. Mountain and sea air make for an ideal climate and create a welcoming atmosphere. In addition, Kvariati is home to the unique historical Gonio Fortress, which was constructed in the 1st century AD. The fortress is located near Kvariati in the village of Gonio.
Kobuleti is the closet resort to the sea in Georgia. It is distinguished by its historical sites, mild subtropical climate, ionized sea air, Pichvnari (pine forest), gentle sun and warm sea. The broad pebbly beach sloping down towards the sea is well equipped with parasols and deck chairs. In addition, different water rides are offered to holiday-makers. There are numerous cafe-bars, restaurants and bungalows in Seaside Park. The mild, humid subtropical climate encourages relaxation as well as medical treatment.
Sea tourism is one of the most popular types of tourism in Ajara. GeorgianDay Magazine 23
ATTRACTIONS OF SEASIDE AJARA Green cape Distance from Batumi: 9 km Best time to visit: Summer, Autumn Located 9 km outside of Batumi, Green Cape (Mtsvane Kontskhi) is one of the most beautiful seaside resorts in Georgia. The area is 70-92 meters above sea level.
Chakvi
Batumi Botanical Garden is located within Green Cape’s picturesque setting. Thousands of visitors come to the garden each year due to its wide variety of flora.
Distance from Batumi: 13 km Best time to visit: Spring, Summer, Autumn Chakvi is located 13 km outside of Batumi. This resort is the historical birthplace of Georgian tea. The Chinese scientist Lao Jin Jao was the first man who started cultivating tea in Chakvi. Chakviis also one of the best locations for birdwatching in Georgia. There is special watchtower for birdwatchers. Hotels and summer cottages are located in the greenery of the Chakvi coastline, which is very popular among the tourists.
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The region’s subtropical climate, warm sea air, seaside resort infrastructure and unique geography are the ideal conditions for vacationers. The total length of the swimming area is 21 km. The average sea temperature is 16.7 oC.
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WHERE TO GO IN BATUMI?
WINE TOUR IN MOUNTAINOUS AJARA
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The route starts from Adjarian Wine House, which is located in Khelvachauri municipality, village Adjaristskali, by the side of Khelvachauri-Keda main road. Here visitors can browse through vineyard, get acknowledged to whole process, in halls arranged in the eastern style and designed with traditional Georgian elements, taste local wines, on the middle floor one can taste Georgian and international cuisine.
From the Ajarian Wine House route continues along the Batumi-Akhaltsikhe main road, approximately in 10 km, we come to the village Makhuntseti where you can see the Makhuntseti arched bridge and waterfall. On the road and near the waterfall visitors can taste and buy local, high quality honey. In the surroundings of the waterfall there is restaurant, where the visitors can taste bioproducts and meet with the Ajarian cuisine. Our route from the Makhuntseti continues along the BatumiAkhaltsikhe main road in the village Pirveli Maisi (same as Saghoreti), where is located Shervashidzeebi’s family cellar, here is possible to taste wines of following varieties: Ojaleshi, Chkhaveri and Tsolikauri, made in oak barrels. The host has his own farm and can offer to the guests bioproducts and accommodation as well. From the Shervashidzeebi’s family cellar the route ends in the village Vaio, where guests can visit 2 family cellars. So called “Makho’s cellar” and Lado Shavishvili’s family cellar; In these places one can taste locally produced wines: Chkaveri, Tsolikauri and Aladasturi and taste local meals. On this route visitors will have the rare opportunity to taste the outstanding wines made from local grape varieties, dishes and learn about the rural life of locals. (Source: GoBatumi.com)
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WEATHER AND The hot, sunny weather and the allure of the Black Sea attract numerous visitors to Ajara in the summertime - the city will be full of local and foreign tourists.
Ajara’s climate is subtropical, with mild winters and hot summers. The Black Sea coastline is humid compared with highland regions. The mountains are distinguished by the considerable amountof snowfall they receive, which sometimes reachesseveral meters. The temperature in the summer reaches 24oC in the plains and 19oC in areas with higher elevations. The average low temperatures in winter in the seaside Adjara is 5oC, whereas in the highland regions are slightly colder (3oC).
Spring Spring in Ajara is warm and pleasant - visitors will find themselves surrounded by the scent of newly bloomed magnolias and colorful camellias.. In Ajara rural tourism,
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bird watching and visiting protected areas become especially interesting in spring time. Those interested in rural tourism can enjoy hiking, camping, rock climbing, wine making, vodka distillation, tasting treating mineral waters and so on.
Summer The hot, sunny weather and the allure of the Black Sea attract numerous visitors to Ajara in the summertime the city will be full of local and foreign tourists. Ajara is home to several resort towns, including Kvariati, Sarpi, Gonio, Chakvi and Kobuleti. All of Ajara’s resort areas are distinguished by their abundance of entertainment venues and tourist facilities.
SEASONALITY IN BATUMI
One of the most beautiful regions in Georgia, Adjara is situated in southwest Georgia on the Black Sea coastline. Turkey borders Adjara to the south.
Autumn
Winter
Autumn is one of the best seasons to visit Ajara. The autumn season provides excellent conditions for seaside holidays, rural tourism and wine tourism. In particular, autumn is the vintage period in mountainous Ajara. Visitors can involve themselves in many fun and memorable harvest-related activities, including grape harvesting and wine making.
Ajara also has great potential for further developing ski resorts. During the wintertime, visitors can enjoy the offerings of Gomarduli and Goderdzi resorts. The resorts have ski routes and lifts for visitors to enjoy. Presently, there are numerous guesthouses in the area available to visitors. (Source: GoBatumi.com) GeorgianDay Magazine 31
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
WE VISIT
ADULT /CHILD
60 GEL
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.)
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8 MOST ROMANTIC PLACES IN BATUMI PANORAMIC WHEEL
ALI AND NINO SCULPTURE
Probably dozens of Hollywood scenes can be recalled in which couple in the highest point of Panoramic wheel enjoys each other and fascinating view. If you wish to repeat this scene and fill yourself real film star you do have this possibility in Batumi and besides what can be more romantic tan sea view?
Heroes from popular novel by Kurban Said – Ali and Nino are impersonating eternal love. Their history is perfectly given in movable monument – lovers are slowly approaching each other and after temporary dates still separating from each other. Temporary dates of Ali and Nino will not live lovers indifferent.
BOTANICAL GARDEN
BATUMI COAST
While searching for romantic environment do not miss Batumi Botanical garden. Marvellous views of sea and mountains and Ajarian flora with its diversity will create good mood to you at any time.
If you decide and you visit Batumi with your beloved you will not need many efforts to find romantic environment. You may simply have a walk at coast, listen to sea noise and meet sunset with your beloved.
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If you have not yet decided where to go with your beloved in pursue of adventures it’s time to think about Batumi – seaside city promises lots of pleasant memories.
ROPEWAY ARGO
DREAM COLUMN
While passing 2586 m ropeway fascinating views will open in front of you – horizon of distanced sea, mountain view and Batumi urban views. At highest point you may enjoy Batumi panoramic view with your beloved which is especially beautiful at night.
You can assess joint work of Lithuanian and Georgian Artists at new Boulevard. Small labyrinth in the centre of which at “Dream Tower” you should make wishes authors dedicated to all dreamers. These exact details will make your trip unforgettable.
LAKE NURIGELI
DANCING FOUNTAINS
If you wish to get far from urban environment and to dedicate the whole day to your beloved you may visit Lake Nuri. Romantic walk on boat in peaceful atmosphere is the perfect situation to feel private with your second half.
Night Batumi offers many pleasant surprises – one of which is fountains which are transformed into theatrical curtain at evening hours. You can enjoy laser show at the background of famous music compositions with your beloved. GeorgianDay Magazine 35
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BUY GEORGIAN RAILWAY TICKETS THROUGH NEW MOBILE APP
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Owners of Android, iOS and Windows smartphones are already able to download the Georgian Railway’s mobile application.
Georgian Railway has launched a new mobile application, giving locals as well as tourists the chance to purchase railway tickets through a mobile application.
enables the users to search tickets for the preferred direction, choose train, select seat and wagon/floor, view purchased tickets even offline and get the QR code.
Owners of Android, iOS and Windows smartphones are already able to download the Georgian Railway’s mobile application.
With this mobile app you can use the E-services of Georgian Railway, purchase one or two way tickets, use student discounts, and purchased tickets will be saved locally to see generated QR code in offline mode”, read the press release of Georgian Railway. (Source: Agenda.ge)
Purchasing a travel ticket is a simple process through the mobile application. ‘Georgian Railway Tickets’
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WHY DO TOURISTS VISIT GEORGIA AND HOW MUCH DO THEY SPEND? Inbound tourism statistics for Q2 2018 released Holiday, leisure and recreation are the most common reasons for international travellers to travel to Georgia, while the next main purpose of the visit is visiting friends and relatives, show the latest data published by the National Statistics Office of Georgia (Geostat).
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In total 1.3 million international visitors ventured away from their home countries and visited Georgia in Q2 of 2018.
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More specifically, the top reasons for visiting Georgia included: • Holiday, Leisure, Recreation – 738,400 travellers (44%) • Visiting friends/relatives – 345,200 travellers (20.6%) • Transit to other country – 286,100 travellers (17%) • Business or professional – 122,500 travellers (7.3%) • Shopping - 105,400 travellers (6.3%) • Health and medical care – 48,600 travellers (2.9%) • Other – 32,200 travellers (1.9%) In total 1.3 million international visitors ventured away from their home countries and visited Georgia in the second quarter (Q2) of 2018, which is a 15.7 percent year-on-year (y/y) increase.
International non-resident travellers travelled 2 million times to Georgia in Q2 of 2018, of which 1.7 million were visits made by international visitors, says Geostat.
Where do inbound visitors travel to in Georgia? Georgia’s capital of Tbilisi was the most visited area, while the Imereti region in the country’s west is the least popular destination in the country. Here are the top five most visited areas: • Tbilisi – 35% • Adjara – 18% • Mtskheta-Mtianeti – 15% • Kvemo Kartli – 12% • Kakheti – 7% People aged 31-50 were the most avid inbound travellers (891,000 people), while the least people willing to travel were the elderly (34,300 people). In terms of gender, more men (827,100) travelled in Georgia than women (518,400) in Q2 of 2018. These travellers spent 1.9 billion GEL in total while travelling in Georgia. This is a 31.5 percent increase
compared to the same quarter of 2017. As for the average expenditure per visit, it totalled 1,144 GEL (15.5% y/y increase). How much do people spend while in Georgia? Inbound visitors spent the largest proportion of money on accommodation, said Geostat. On average, the total amount spent in Q2 of 2018 per category was: Accommodation – 424m GEL Holiday, leisure, recreation, cultural and sporting activities – 354m GEL Food and drink – 518m GEL Shopping – 297.8 million GEL Local transport – 129.7m GEL Consumer durable goods – 149.6m GEL Valuable goods – 6m GEL Other expenditures – 41.3m GEL (Source: Agenda.ge) GeorgianDay Magazine 41
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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.
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THE THIRD OFFICIAL CEREMONY OF THE WELCOME TO GEORGIA! NATIONAL TOURISM AWARDS
The main mission of the Welcome to Georgia! National Tourism Awards is to encourage tourism and hospitality industry in Georgia and to promote the awareness of the high-achieving tourism business and brands that create a positive image of the country worldwide. On December 6th, 2017 the Third Official Ceremony of the Welcome to Georgia! National Tourism Awards was held at the Rustaveli Theatre, where traditionally 21 BEST companies among the different nominations were named. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14.
THE BEST BOUTIQUE ACCOMMODATION AWARD – Boutique Hotel Kabadoni THE BEST STANDARD ACCOMMODATION AWARD – Iveria Inn THE BEST DELUXE ACCOMMODATION AWARD – Radisson Blu Iveria Tbilisi THE BEST WELLNESS & SPA RESORT AWARD – Rixos Borjomi THE BEST MOUNTAIN ACCOMMODATION AWARD – Quadrumi THE BEST SEA ACCOMMODATION AWARD – Sheraton Batumi THE BEST LOW BUDGET ACCOMMODATION AWARD – Pushkini 10 THE BEST MICE TOURISM AWARD – Georgia Events THE BEST WINE TOURISM AWARD – Chateau Mukhrani THE BEST ADVENTURE TOURISM AWARD – Zeta Camping THE BEST GEORGIAN TRADITIONAL RESTAURANT AWARD – Tsiskvili Group THE BEST TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHER AWARD – Giorgi Liparteliani CONCEPT CAFÉ/RESTAURANT AWARD – Sirajkhana THE BEST MARKETING CAMPAIGN OF TOURISM
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DESTINATION AWARD – Where.ge 15. THE BEST SPECIALIZED TOURISM SERVICES AWARD – Accessible Tourism Center PARSA 16. THE BEST HOTEL OF INTERNATIONAL CHAIN IN GEORGIA AWARD – Member of Acor Group Mercuri Tbilisi Old Town Hotel 17. THE FASTEST GROWING COMPANY OF THE YEAR IN THE SME SEGMENT AWARD – Best Western Kutaisi 18. THE BEST WOMAN ENTREPRENEUR IN THE TOURISM INDUSTRY AWARD – Founder of Accessible Tourism Center PARSA Tamar Makharashvili 19. THE BEST FESTIVAL OR EVENT AWARD – Tbilisi Open Air 20. THE BEST FESTIVAL OR EVENT AWARD – was also awarded to Kolga Tbilisi Festival for unique concept, as the festival has managed to mark Georgia on the Photo exhibitions’ map. The Official Award Ceremony hosted more than 700 guests: first Vice Prime Minister/Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia – Dimitry Kumsishvili; Tbilisi Mayor – Kakha Kaladze; Head of Georgian National Tourism Administration – Giorgi Chogovadze; all nominees and project partners; government sector, private business, international and local media. Award Ceremony was opened by Tbilisi Mayor Kakha kaladze, he noted that Georgia has high potential for raising awareness of travel destinations and how important the role of each company involved in this field is for tourism development.
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AWARDS TEAM CONGRATULATES ALL MENTIONED WINNERS AND FINALISTS, PARTICIPANTS AND GUESTS. THE OFFICIAL AWARD CEREMONY HOSTED MORE THAN 700 GUESTS
WELCOME TO GEORGIA! NATIONAL TOURISM AWARDS 2017
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320 DIFFERENT COMPANIES REPRESENTING TOURISM AND HOSPITALITY MARKET FROM ALL OVER GEORGIA
AWARD CEREMONY WAS OPENED BY TBILISI MAYOR KAKHA KALADZE
The first Vice Prime Minister of Georgia Dimitry Kumsishvili, welcomed the guests spoke about the importance of tourism industry for Georgian economy, mentioned latest achievements of the field and significance of the Project. First Vice Prime Minister awarded founder of Caucasus Travel, Mr. Saba Kiknadze for Contribution to Tourism Development. Co-Founder of the Award project Maryna Chayka also welcomed and thanked guests, partners and nominees for participation in the Award Project and noted projects contribution to Georgian tourism industry and its’ global aims. 320 different companies representing tourism and hospitality market from all over Georgia including hotels, travel agencies, festivals and events, restaurants, cafes,
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wineries, travel photographers were honorably holding the status of Nominee of Welcome to Georgia! National Tourism Awards 2017. Each nominee was assessed in accordance with internationally recognized methodology by the Professional Jury Board, consisted of experts of international and local travel, culture and hospitality markets, who were separated according to categories depending on the kind of their main professional activity. As the guarantee of fairness and transparency of the Awards Project Independent Auditor “BDO Georgia” monitored all the processes, calculated the results and based on the points awarded to each Nominee determined the finalists and the winners in each nomination.
CO-FOUNDER OF THE AWARD PROJECT MARYNA CHAYKA ALSO WELCOMED AND THANKED GUESTS, PARTNERS AND NOMINEES FOR PARTICIPATION IN THE AWARD PROJECT
AWARDS TEAM CONGRATULATES ALL MENTIONED WINNERS AND FINALISTS, PARTICIPANTS AND GUESTS.
The main mission of the Welcome to Georgia! National Tourism Awards is to encourage tourism and hospitality industry in Georgia and to promote the awareness of the high-achieving tourism business and brands that create a positive image of the country worldwide. For the third year already Georgian National Tourism Administration on behalf of Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia is Co-organizer of the Award Project. Tbilisi City Hall is Official Supporter; Official Partner of the Award Project - Bank of Georgia. General Sponsor - Alliance Group.
Sponsors: Altido; Tbilisi Business Hub; Julius Meinl; Vesta; Ardi; Beauty Salon-Studio Keune; Sarajishvili; The Department of Tourism and Resorts of Adjara; Dinehall Restaurant; Victoria Security; Iteq; Orient Logic; Elements Group; YanAir; UPS; Domson’s Engineering; Gagra Plus; Favorite Style; Profitex; STS Hospitality; Giffer; Megatechnica; Tbilvino; Budget; Lovely Roses; General Radio Partner – Radio Holding Fortuna; Hotel Partners: City Center; City Avenue; Lopota Spa Resort; Colosseum Marina; Grove Hotel; Coral Boutique Hotel; Divan Suites Batumi; Wyndham Batumi; Special thanks to Georgian Designer Lasha Jokhadze for awesome dresses for Awards Organizers. GeorgianDay Magazine 47
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ГЕОРГИЕМ ГОГИАШВИЛИ знаменитый московский бармен в Батуми Мы поговорили с известным московским барменом Георгием Гогиашвили, о его новом проекте «GoodFellaz Kitchen Lab» в Батуми. Вместе с друзьями по цеху этим летом Георгий открыл стильное заведение с мраморной говядиной и великолепной коктейльной картой. Георгий родился в Тбилиси, где с 2005 начал осваивать искусство бармена, учился он у специалистов из Голландии (Mano Banks, Quinten Rutgers), а затем через несколько лет уехал работать в Москву. В его послужном списке такие гиганты, как клуб GIPSY, сеть концептуальных ресторанов Раппопорта , бар-Белка на Красном Октябре, коктейльный бар Феррейн, бар Эстетик на Малой Бронной… - Георгий, привет. Ты амбициозный человек? - Думаю, да. - Ты 11 лет прожил в Москве и достиг огромных успехов в профессии. Что заставило вернуться из эпицентра тусовок, где ты востребован, в Грузию, в Батуми? - Мне необходимо было сменить ритм, картинку.. Друзья размышляли об открытии стейк-хауса; наши концепции, отношение к культуре обслуживания, совпали. Так появилась идея создать заведение топового уровня, и вдвойне приятно то, что я смог сделать это на своей Родине, в Грузии.
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- GoodFellaz Kitchen Lab проект весьма амбициозный - он реализации личных амбиций поспособствует? - Конечно. -Есть ли страхи, что-то пойдет не так? -Страхов нет. -Как думаешь, в чём залог успеха? -Любой ресторан, бар – это механизм со множеством деталей-шестеренок, они должны взаимодействовать и вместе крутиться. Если есть классная кухня, но об этом никто не знает, например, то какая бы классная она ни была – это уже второстепенно, потому что нет потребителя. Свет, звук, персонал, стиль- это все должно складываться в один продукт. Тогда это работает. Это будет «место силы» в Грузии, в этом я уверен. - Даже не просто в Батуми, а во всей Грузии? - Да. 100%. - В Москве ты был не просто барменом, а и управленцем. Каким должен быть бармен на твой взгляд? - Бармен должен всегда быть в тонусе. Я не управленец со стороны, я командный игрок, который находится внутри. Капитан команды, который занимается… всем.
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- Бывает, что ты в плохом настроении, а нужно встать за бар и улыбаться клиентам? - За баром у меня нет никаких проблем, есть я - и гости. Я в образе. Это моя территория, мне там спокойно, мне там комфортно. - У тебя есть авторские коктейли? - Да. И то, что придумал сам, и твисты на хорошую классику. - В чем ты черпаешь вдохновение? Ты специально садишься и придумываешь или это приходит свыше? -Специально никогда… Что то попробовал, какое-то необычное сочетание.. Например у нас здесь есть чай-анчан. У него не сильный аромат, но он пикантный и у него интересный цвет. Сычуанский перец – он очень душистый и от него необычные покалывания во рту. Достаточно выйти на рынок, пощупать, понюхать, попробовать разные специи, фрукты – и получится что-то интересное. -А сам какие коктейли любишь? -Clover club, Negroni, Bramble, Martinez…
-Когда гость просит «смешать что-нибудь» - как ты выбираешь, что сделать для него? - Смотрю на образ. - То есть ты человека можешь считать? - Да, за десять лет, наверное, приходит это. Это ко всем приходит, мне кажется. Если дядька с перстнями, эдакий брутал с хриплым голосом, то ты же не станешь ему делать пина-коладу? Ты подберешь ему олд-фешн от которого он кайфанет. Это стиль, у этого коктейля огромная история. То есть дополняешь напитком силуэт, образ человека. - Что необычного в новом GoodFellaz Kitchen Lab ? Есть какие-то «фишки»? -Отношение к гостям в первую очередь. Мы пострались предложить им максимальный уровень сервиса. Мы большое внимание уделяем именно «культуре питья», европейской. У каждой бутылки, у каждой позиции в нашем баре богатое и интересное прошлое. У каждого коктейля, который у нас есть - многолетняя история, у каких-то даже вековая. - Спасибо, желаем успехов! GeorgianDay Magazine 51
Refresh Your Life with Non - Stop 24 Hours Music Radio
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CAVEA CINEMAS NEW MOVIES IN AUGUST
NOW IN CAVEA CINEMAS CAVEA TBILISI MALL & CAVEA EAST POINT
www.cavea.ge
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CHAKHOKHBILI BEEF, SPICY
Ingredients
Instructions
500 g beef 4 bulbs 500 g tomatoes 0,5 garlic cloves 1 teaspoon red pepper 1 a tablespoon each sorts of herbs from a set of spices (parsley, savory, coriander, Basil, red pepper, garlic)
Cut meat, put them in the heated pan, fry for 10 minutes, add the chopped onions, fry for another 5 minutes, a little salt. Scald the tomatoes, peel them, mash them in a bowl, pour over the meat in the pan, cover and simmer over moderate heat for 20 minutes. At the end of the fighting dosolit. Spicy finely chop the herbs and mix with the dry spices, enter in chakhokhbili, stir, keep on low heat for 3 - 5 minutes. Add the chopped garlic. Let stand with the lid closed.
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SHURPA
LAMB AND VEGETABLE SOUP Lamb and Vegetable Soup, also known as Shurpa (Sho’rpo) is a well-known Central Asian soup. Before you start working on this soup, I need your word that you will not over-boil and keep the heat no more than on medium. The soup has to simmer and slowly cook for a lengthy period of time.
Ingredients: 1-2 lb fresh lamb, preferably on the bone 1 large onion 1 medium tomato 1 medium carrot 1 green bell pepper 2 potatoes, 4 medium potatoes are ideal. But I am trying to cut our potato intake to a minimum. 10 cups of plain water and 11 cups of pre-boiled water 1 cup of chickpeas previously soaked in water (optional) salt 1/2 tsp pepper 1/2 tsp cumin Directions: Wash the lamb on the bone and place it in a large pot. Pour over 10 cups of water and bring the water to boil in medium heat. As soon as the water starts slightly boiling, discard the water. I do this in order to reduce the smell that
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lamb meat usually has and to clean out the meat to have a clear bullion. Once you emptied the pot return it back to the stove and add 11 cups of pre-boiled water. Bring it to boil again but keep the heat on medium. Do not overboil the water. When the water starts boiling, more foam will appear on the surface of the soup. Using either a spoon or a spatula, remove the foam. The water of the soup should be clear. Keep on simmering the soup in medium-low heat. Cover the lid of the pot half way and cook the meat for at least 2 hours. Clean all vegetables, wash them and cut them accordingly: cut the onions in half circles. Thinly slice tomato, cut carrots in smaller pieces, julienne green bell peppers, cut potatoes in half (if smaller) or in fours. Open the lid of the pot and turn the heat to medium. When the meat is almost cooked, first add onions to the soup. Stir in the cumin, black pepper and salt as desired. Cook onions for about 15 minutes and add tomatoes. Cook for another 10-15 minutes. When the tomato slices are nice and soft, add the remaining vegetables and cook until they are soft enough to be consumed (for approximately 20 minutes). Place equal portions of vegetables to meat and pour over the soup. You can also shred the meat and get rid of the bony part. Serve with dills or cilantro.
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K N I R D H WIT ME
CRAFT BAR
LOCAL CRAFT BEER, LOCAL WINE, HOMEMADE SHOTS, HOMEMADE FOODS
DRINKING, EATING, CHATTING AND ENJOYING we working from 8pm till you paying
GeorgianDay Magazine 67 +995 593 175 897 | Jordania Street 24, Batumi.
Number 8 - Craft Beer Club
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+995 591 65 14 14 | Hours 1:00 PM - 1:00 AM Irakli Abashidze Street 22, Tbilisi.
+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
ENSEMBLE Chinese Restaurant Hotels & Preference Hualing Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 2 50 50 | 2 97 32 97
Tiflis Veranda Restaurant International Restaurant 3 V.Gorgasali St. Tiflis Palace Hotel, Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 2 000 245
The Kitchen Italian, French Restaurant 14 Merab Kostava St, 0108, Tbilisi
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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 NightClubS in Tbilisi
HI CLUB, No.5 Mishveladze St.
7 CLUB, Tabidze 3/5 st.
SAFE CLUB, Shardeni
NIGHT OFFICE CLUB, Baratashvili Brdge.
NINE CLUB, Sololaki, Europe Square
UNIQUE CLUB, Bambis Rigi St.
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BEST CASINOS IN TBILISI AND BATUMI
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LIST OF CASINOS IN TBILISI
CASINO ADJARA, Tbilisi
SHANGRI-LA, Tbilisi
CASINO IVERIA, Tbilisi
LASVEGAS BET, Tbilisi
LIST OF CASINOS IN BATUMI
LEOGRAND CASINO, 2/4, Shavsheti St, Batumi | Tel: +995 (0) 422 24 26 26 | www.leograndhotel.com
CASINO INTERNATIONAL, 40 Rustaveli Ave, Batumi
PEACE CASINO, Batumi
CASINO IVERIA, Batumi
PRINCESS CASINO , Batumi GeorgianDay Magazine 79
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