LIST OF THE BEST CASINOS IN TBILISI AND BATUMI
GEORGIA IS PURE WINE COUNTRY WHY INVEST IN GEORGIA?
10 MUST SEE PLACES IN TBILISI
RESTAURANTS & BARS GUIDE IN TBILISI
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More than 150 brands Lebowski Bowl Club Kakheti Highway, 2 Al.Tvalchrelidze Str.Tbilisi,Georgia 4 GeorgianDay Magazine
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GeorgianDay Magazine 5
Content
Welcome to Georgia
Adventure in Georgia WHY INVEST IN GEORGIA?
10 must see places in Tbilisi
Georgian wine export up 85% in January-March 2017 International tourist arrivals georgia up 28 percent in March
RESTAURANTS & BARS GUIDE in Tbilisi Sulfur Baths in Tbilisi Special Thanks to: > GEORGIAN NATIONAL TOURISM ADMINISTRATION > GEORGIAN NATIONAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION > DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM AND RESORTS OF AJARA A. R. > AGENDA.GE
© 2014-2017 BY GEORGIAN DAY MAGAZINE, LICENSED & POWERED BY MR PUBLISHER LTD. ID.NO.:406128382, TBILISI, GEORGIA. TEL: +995 790 33 3003 | MOB: +995 55 888 9191 www.GeorgianDay.com | info@GeorgianDay.com
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Georgia is pure wine country
BEST CASINOS IN TBILISI AND BATUMI
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Welcome Georgia is situated at the dividing line of Asia and Europe. It is situated at the eastern end of the Black Sea, with Turkey and Armenia to the south, Azerbaijan to the east, and Russia to the north, over the Caucasus Mountains. Georgia, an ancient country of rocky mountains and very determined people, has been attracting more and more travelers who are drawn in by the stunning mountains, delicious cuisine and warm hospitality of the country. Population in Georgia is almost 5 million and
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official language is Georgian. Georgian currency is Georgian Lari (GEL). Climate of the country is extremely diverse and the average temperature in summer ranges from 32 °C to 35 °C, and in winter – from 1.5 °C to 3 °C. Georgia with its incredible and fantastic mountain scenery and its green valleys is one of the most beautiful countries which has got wonderful heritage of architecture and art through its complicated history.
To GEORGIA Georgia claims to be the birthplace of wine, and this is a place where guests are considered blessings and hospitality is the very stuff of life. Largest cities and towns of Georgia are : Tbilisi (Capital); Kutaisi; Batumi; Rustavi; Zugdidi; Gori; Poti; Khashuri; Samtredia. Tbilisi Tbilisi, capital and the largest city of Georgia, with a population of around 1.5 million is a
true showcase of Georgian culture, history, and architecture.
Famous and remarkable tourist destinations include Museums in Georgia, Cathedrals like Tsminda Sameba, Sioni and Armenian Cathedral of St George , medieval Narikala Fortress, Parliament building (Old), Kartvlis Deda, Abanotubani, classical Freedom Square and Rustaveli Avenue, Agmashenebeli Avenue, Gabriadze Theater. GeorgianDay Magazine 17
ADVENTURE IN GEORGIA
Hiking and Trekking Getting away from it all is easy in Georgia. Whether you’re following ancient trails along lush river valleys, past ancient stone towers and castles or catching your breath on high altitude mountain paths, it is likely that you will be the only person for miles around. Many paths have been maintained over the centuries by locals dedicated to looking after their cattle and livestock, and with so many trails to choose from, your walk can be as challenging or as easy-going as you like. And what an experience. Marvel at the magnificent snowy peaks of the Caucasus Mountains, full of hidden valleys and glaciers. Lower down you come across more varieties of animals, birds and flowers than in any other European country. Wherever you walk, you’ll be sure of a warm welcome. Whether you choose to sit and drink some local wine, sample the delicious locally produced food or even stay overnight in the villagers’ homes, you’ll never be treated better.
4x4 Adventure Because Georgia is a compact and diverse country, there is a very small distance between completely contrasting landscapes: deserts, sea, subtropics, tea plantations, high mountains etc. Almost everything can be seen within a day or so travelling in a 4×4 vehicle. See the breathtaking scenery change with your own eyes, moment by moment, and capture the essence of what it feels like to be in Georgia.There is also a chance to go offroad totally, without going through beaten paths. Enduro motorbikes and safari cars wait for you to drive you really crazy! Mountaineering With twelve mountains higher than Mont Blanc and some of the most spectacular peaks in Europe among them, Georgia is becoming the mountaineers’ new favorite destination. While only the bravest can anticipate scaling over 5,000 meters at Kazbegi or Georgia’s highest mountain, Shkhara, there are a huge number of easier, lower climbs for mountaineers of various levels.
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Biking With so many fabulous mountains, countryside and well established paths, Georgia is a perfect venue to fulfill your mountain bike ambitions. Race along high ridges or amble down elegant valleys; the choice is limitless and invigorating!
Rafting & Kayaking In Georgia there are many wild fast flowing rivers fed from glaciers in the surrounding mountains. The water races from their 5.000 meter peaks to the sea. There are a lot of opportunities for rafting there, so you can take advantage of many safely organized tours and experience this incredible adventure by yourself. Horse Riding If walking becomes too tiring, you can always ride. Breathe in the pure sweet air as you gallop across the green plateaus of Southern Georgia; gasp as your horse pulls you up and over the high passes in Khevsureti or Tusheti. And at the end of the day, camp in the remotest, most idyllic of places or find a home stay to bed down for the night. Allowing you to travel into areas beyond the reach of even today’s 4x4s; you’ll understand why horses are so perfect for exploring more of the country. Paragliding Filled with high cliffs, hot sun, and icy peaks, the opportunities to catch a thermal in Georgia is overwhelming. Why not come and find that perfect spot for yourself. Bird Watching With over 360 endemic species of birds, Georgia is a bird-watchers dream. Principal migration routes through the high Caucasus and along the Black Sea corridor provide superb viewing opportunities in stunning settings.
Hunting and Fishing Georgia has an impressive diversity of fauna that makes this country attractive for Big Game as well as Small Game Hunters. Georgia is an important migration point for birds, passing through the border, which according to the season is a great opportunity to hunt more, than thirty different species of birds. When it comes to hunting activities of other animals and birds, there are specially located hunting farms allowing hunting across different parts of Georgia. Also Georgian lakes and rivers boast with variety of fish species. Major ones are trout, common carp, vendace, chub, crucian carp, silver carp, bighead carp and barbel. The best places for fishing are Paliastomi and Paravani lakes, Tkibuli and Shaori reservoirs, Black Sea coast of Samegrelo region, especially Anaklia. In Alazani and Aragvi rivers you can catch catfish and carp. There are also fish farms near Kutaisi and Kazbegi, and lake resorts Lopota and Kvareli, where you are charged for fishing, but you can also rent the equipment there, and be sure that your catch is guaranteed!
Eco - National Parks Georgia’s natural environment is one of the most special in the world. National parks and protected areas cover more than 7% of Georgia. 75% of the all protected areas are covered with woods. There are 14 national reserves, 9 national parks, 17 suppressed, 14 natural monuments and 2 protected landscapes in Georgia. The Georgian landscape is especially suited to eco-tourists, due to its relatively unspoiled status and absence of mass tourism. Amateur botanists or zoologists are going to find themselves in a real heaven full of rare plants and animals. Source: georgia.travel
Caving Georgia, especially its Western part, contains an amazing array of cave systems, from underground rivers and lakes to enormous caverns and limestone scenery. Trek or ride to some of the many canyons that make up the landscape, and feel the thrill of seeing the 300 million year old dinosaur footprint on the rock. They look so fresh that you can almost believe the animals that made them are only just around the next corner. The Tskaltubo Cave system has not yet been fully explored, but even now it offers to the adventurers the chance to go over a kilometer underground and take a boat across its enchanted lake. Professional cavers will find much for them in the Samegrelo and Imereti Regions.
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www.fb.com/GeorgiaAndTravel
www.georgia.travel
TBILISI
10 MUST SEE PLACES Georgia’s ancient and vibrant capital city spreads out on both banks of the Mtkvari River, and is surrounded on three sides by mountains. The most widely accepted variant of the legend of Tbilisi’s founding says that in the mid-5th century AD, King Vakhtang I Gorgasali was hunting in the heavily wooded region with a falcon. The King’s falcon allegedly caught or injured a pheasant during the hunt, after which both birds fell into a nearby hot spring and died from burns. King Vakhtang became so impressed with the hot springs that he decided to cut down the forest and build a city.
1.OLD TBILISI
2.NARIKALA
The main sights of the city are clustered in the Old Tbilisi district. This area is well-known for its sulfur bathhouses fed by natural hot springs. Nearby on Shardeni Street you will find plenty of modern, popular restaurants, open air café-bars, trendy night clubs and art galleries.
Narikala Fortress can be seen from any point within Old Tbilisi. It was constructed for defense purposes in the 4th century and was considerably expanded over subsequent historical periods. GeorgianDay Magazine 23
TBILISI
10 MUST SEE PLACES 3.RUSTAVELI AVENUE AND FREEDOM SQUARE
Rustaveli Avenue begins at Freedom Square and extends about 1.5 kilometers. This is the center of the city, where many of the governmental, cultural and business facilities are located. Strolling down Rustaveli you can observe daily life in the city, explore shops from both international and local brands, and get something to eat.
5. “DRY BRIDGE”
The Dry Bridge is home to a famous flea market, where you can find art exhibitions and antique items for sale. Whether you’re interested in Soviet memorabilia, handmade jewelry, or personal keepsakes- remember to haggle! Open daily in good weather from 10:00 - 17:00.
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4. FUNICULAR
The Tbilisi Funicular is one of the finest examples of cable railways in the world. The railway leads to Mtatsminda- a beautiful leisure and amusement park overlooking the entire city.
6. AGMASHENEBELI AVENUE
Agmashenebeli Avenue is one of the longest and most beautiful streets of the city. Here you can find gorgeous historic buildings, painted entryways and distinctive architectural ornaments.
The name Tbilisi derives from the Old Georgian word “tbili”, meaning warm. Archaeological studies of the region indicate human settlement in the area early as the 4th millennium BC.
7. SIMON JANASHIA MUSEUM OF GEORGIA
The museum’s origins date back to the 19th century. Today, the museum exhibits Georgia’s principal archaeological findings, thousands of artifacts of immense historical significance, animal remains dating back 40 million years, and archaeological and ethnographic collections from the Paleolithic, Neolithic, Bronze, Iron and Middle Ages.
9. GABRIADZE THEATER
Founded in 1981, it became the first Georgian puppet theater. The building is decorated with a magnificent clock tower which features a performance of figurines everyday at 12:00. Address: 13 Shavteli Street
8. ART MUSEUM OF GEORGIA
Located near Freedom Square, the Art Museum of Georgia is one of the most important museums in thecountry. There are approximately 140,000 items of art on display from various cultures and time periods.
10. HOLY TRINITY CATHEDRAL
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. GeorgianDay Magazine 25
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WHY INVEST IN GEORGIA? MANUFACTURING
Georgia’s natural advantage as a gateway between Europe and Asia provides many benefits to investors in the manufacturing sector. In particular, Georgia offers competitive labor and energy costs, low taxes, and a corruption-free environment for serving the region, as well as numerous preferential/free trade agreements. Manufacturing accounts for 11% of GDP and
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FREE TRADE AGREEMENTS WITH 900 MILLION MARKETS, COMPETITIVE LABOR COSTS, GROWING REGIONAL MARKET & LOW UTILITY COSTS.
around 5% of employment. The food and metals industries provide the largest industrial base for Georgia, while apparel, beverages, wood and chemicals are the fastest growing industries. With the establishment of the Free Industrial Zones in Georgia there are new incentives and opportunities to produce and export goods with a minimal tax burden - in the FIZs, businesses are exempted from all tax charges except Personal Income Tax.
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WHY INVEST IN MANUFACTURING Free Trade Agreements with 900 million markets Georgia has Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with Turkey and post-soviet countries. The country has singed Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (DCFTA) with EU on June 27, 2014. Additionally Georgia has GSP agreement with US, Canada, Japan, Norway and Switzerland.
Growing regional market Companies operating in Georgia can benefit from the growing regional market and various import substitution opportunities, specifically in the following industries: food processing, chemicals, plastics, construction materials, packaging, household goods, ceramic and glass products, etc.
Competitive labor costs The average monthly salary in manufacturing industry is 410 USD and given the high level of unemployment in Georgia, salary growth is expected to remain low. Additionally companies can benefits from Free Training Opportunities – there are 33 Vocational Education Training Centers around Georgia, which provide professional courses in different types of practical subjects and most of the course’s fees are financed by the Government of Georgia.
Low utility costs Currently, up to 80% of electricity is generated via hydropower plants, which gives Georgia possibility to have competitively priced energy – standard cost for 1 kwh is ~4.8-5 USD cents for 30-110 kv high voltage electricity. However factories consuming more than 3 million kwh per year can be registered as direct consumers and purchase electricity directly from energy producers.
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Source: investingeorgia.org
Steel & Aluminum Georgia’s current advantages in terms of handling large trans-shipment flows, low cost of power generation, existing raw materials and intermediate products provide opportunities for large industrial projects such as production of iron, aluminum and steel products. Georgia mines manganese and copper ores, and produces ferro alloys, largely for export (~230 mln USD). Additionally Georgia and neighboring countries export waste and scrap metals. However there are large imports of semi-finished and finished iron and steel products to Georgia (~450 mln USD) and neighboring countries. Currently Georgia transships raw materials (alumina and bauxite) for aluminum production from west (USA, Brazil, Jamaica etc.) to Central Asia. After smelting process, ready aluminum goes through Georgia to Europe, Turkey, USA etc. By using these transshipment flows and low cost of electricity, Georgia can integrate into a global value chain of aluminum production in both directions: • Upstream - production of aluminum form alumina • Downstream - production of fabricated and finished aluminum products, such as cans and other packaging materials, construction materials, wires and cables etc. Source: investingeorgia.org
“IN GEORGIA
INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES GeorgianDay Magazine 31
INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES
IN GEORGIA Construction Materials During last decade the substantial increase in construction activity boosted the construction materials industry, including sales of construction materials. In 2014, the Georgian economy grew by 4.7% and it is widely expected to maintain a growth trajectory. Furthermore all countries of South Caucasus region are developing with fast pace and demand for construction materials is growing yearly. In Georgia, one of the fastest growing business sectors are real estate and infrastructure (new resorts, residential complexes, highway and other transport infrastructure), and additionally there are large hydropower projects in the pipeline. 32 GeorgianDay Magazine
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GEORGIA’S NATURAL ADVANTAGE AS A GATEWAY BETWEEN EUROPE AND ASIA PROVIDES MANY BENEFITS TO INVESTORS IN THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR
Apparel & Textiles Currently Georgia produces apparel for world famous brands, such as: Tommy Hilfiger, Zara, Moncler, Marks & Spencer, Koton, Puma, Mexx, Next, George, Miss Etam, Lotto, Per Una, Autograph, Lebek, Hawes & Curtis, Dainese, Primark etc. Georgia has a rich history of apparel and textile production dating back to Soviet times. Georgia produced high quality apparel/clothes, silk and wool blend fabrics. After the collapse of the Soviet Union, Georgia’s textile and apparel sectors fell on difficult economic period. The sector emerged in 2000s after Turkish investors and Georgian entrepreneurs began refurbishing old factories and engaging in cut, make, trim (CMT) activities for the local and export markets. Presently, there are more than 200 apparel manufacturing companies (both, Georgian and foreign investors) in Georgia, about 93% of which are micro-enterprises. Approximately 95% of apparel produced by investor companies is exported to Turkey and/or to the EU markets. During last years, several Georgian companies have also started production for export markets. At present, Georgian apparel sector is characterized with a whole range of benefits and investment opportunities, such as extremely cheap workforce (around 250 USD per month), Free Trade Agreements and proximity to the large export markets including EU, Turkey, Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, Kazakhstan, etc. Source: investingeorgia.org
WHY INVEST IN
MANUFACTURING
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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
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.)
www.cstbilisi.com GeorgianDay Magazine 35
YANAIR AIRLINES – YOUR PERSONAL AIR SERVICES NAVIGATION!
The airline was founded as a traditional European air carrier in terms of passenger service and flexible tariff policy. YanAir’s task is to ensure high standards of service and comfort of their passengers. In addition, they are pleased to offer passengers a full range of services on their flights, consistently high level of service and that is no less important, punctuality of performed flights! The YANAIR airline performs regular direct flights: Kiev–Tbilisi-Kiev, Kiev–Batumi-Kiev, Odessa–TbilisiOdessa, Odessa–Batumi-Odessa and Charter programs flights.
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The YanAir airlines offers a free baggage allowance of 23 kilograms, food and hand luggage at a rate of 7 kilograms for all passengers in economy class and also business class services with high level of comfort. For passengers who like to travel with increased comfort YanAir airlines provides service Extra Space - additional space for you travel. Ukrainian Air Company YanAir has become as an Official Air Carrier of the «Welcome to Georgia! National Tourism Awards» for the second year.
• 12 lane professional bowling • Pool and Russian Billiard tables • Conceptual American café-restaurant • Billiard Private Room “Comfort Zone”
Working Hours: Monday-Thursday, Sunday: 11:00-02:00 Friday-Saturday: 11:00-03:00
Tel: 591 50 10 10 | FB: lebowskibowlclub | Address: 2 Al Tvalchrelidze (East Point) 37 GeorgianDay Magazine
GEORGIA LOOKS FOR FREE TRADE DEAL WITH INDIA
A delegation from Georgia will depart for India to explore free trade opportunities with this country. Georgia seeks to establish a free trade regime with India in order to access to its markets and increase bilateral business and trade. Today during the Government meeting the Prime Minister of Georgia Giorgi Kvirikashvili raised this issue and the potential benefits of a Georgia-India free trade deal. We have free trade deals with our neighbouring countries – Turkey, European Union (EU), European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries [Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein]. In near future we will sign free trade deal with China and Hong Kong. Now we want to
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survey India [to explore free trade opportunities with this country],” said Kvirikashvili. For this reason, Georgia’s Minister of Economy Giorgi Gakharia will lead a delegation to Delhi, India. In a few months an economic study will be done, and we will use the results to shape our free trade negotiations with India. This is a very important issue because Georgia has all potential to become a regional trade hub and we should use this opportunity to our advantage,” Kvirikashvili said. (Source: Agenda.ge)
ImPORteR aNd dIStRIbutOR OF buIldINg mateRIalS aNd INduStRIal Our Products include: Cabel, Hose, Plastic Net, Polycarbonate Sheet, Rope, Carpet, Pipes & Fittings. Contact and visit our store in case you require any other products related to building materials and construction. We will be able to provide you with the best quality and price.
PERSIAN TRADE CENTRE
Tel: +995 555 10 6363 | +995 514 10 8383 www.ptc-georgia.com | ptc.georgia@gmail.com Shop 19 A, Ashendi (Eliava 2), Khosharauli St. 29, Tbilis; Georgia 39 GeorgianDay Magazine
INTERNATIONAL TOURIST ARRIVALS GEORGIA UP 28 PERCENT IN MARCH
The number of international visitors coming to Georgia is increasing show data from the Georgian National Tourism Administration (GNTA).
219,642 tourists* spent time in the country in March of 2017, making for a 28.6 percent year-over-year (y/y) increase. Overall, 511,045 international travellers (tourists, transit, other) visited Georgia last month – 13.1 percent more compared to the same period in 2016. The highest number of visitors who came to Georgia in March 2017 were from Azerbaijan (11.1 percent increase), Armenia (11 percent increase), Turkey (17 percent decrease), Russia (16.5 percent increase) and Iran (194.8 percent increase). A positive trend was also maintained by visitors from the European Union: • Poland - 39 percent increase • France - 38 percent increase • Germany - 19 percent increase • Greece - 18 percent increase • Lithuania - 17 percent increase
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Overall, 511,045 international travellers visited Georgia in March 2017. Exceptional growth in visitor numbers was recorded from the following countries: • Iran – 195 percent increase • India - 182 percent increase • Egypt – 119 percent increase • Uzbekistan - 97 percent increase • Israel - 93 percent increase Meanwhile, during the first three months of 2017 Georgia hosted 1,266,125 international travellers (11.4 percent increase). Ed. - *Tourists are considered individuals that spend more than 24 hours in the country. (Source: Agenda.ge)
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GEORGIAN WINE EXPORT UP 85% IN JANUARY-MARCH 2017 In total, Georgia has sold $58.5 million worth of alcoholic beverages in January-March 2017. Georgia exported 14,199,018 bottles of wine to 38 countries from January to March 2017, adding $32.2 million to the economy. Revenue increased by 77 percent from the same period in 2016, while the volume of exports increased by 85 percent, said the Georgian National Wine Agency. The top five countries that imported Georgian wine in January-February 2017 were: • Russia – 8,987,745 bottles • China – 1,794,200 bottles • Ukraine – 1,305,508 bottles • Poland – 561,294 bottles • Kazakhstan – 473,515 bottles Wine exports also increased to the European Union (EU), China and other traditional export markets for Georgia, said the Georgian National Wine Agency. This year exports of Georgian wine increased to: • China – 383 percent (1,794,200 bottles) • Israel – 333 percent (42,570 bottles)
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Russia – 120 percent (8,987,745 bottles) Canada – 55 percent (34,650 bottles) Poland – 27 percent (561,294 bottles) Germany – 22 percent (98,926 bottles) Ukraine – 20 percent (1,305,508 bottles) United States – 7 percent (66,714 bottles) Latvia – 5 percent (255,896 bottles)
Meanwhile, Georgia exported 3,302,962 bottles of Georgian brandy to 13 countries in the first three months of 2017. This was a 51 percent increase year-over-year (y/y). So far this year, Georgia has generated $8.7 million from the sale of brandy abroad. Georgia also exported 46,990 bottles of Chacha – 142 percent more compared to the same period of last year. By selling Chacha abroad Georgia generated $137,000, which was 114 percent increase y/y. In total, Georgia has sold $58.5 million worth of alcoholic beverages in January-March 2017, including wine, brandy, chacha and others.. (Source: Agenda.ge)
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GEORGIA IS PURE WINE COUNTRY Wine lovers have a lot to thank Georgia for. It is widely believed that this is where wine production first began, over 7000 years ago. In fact, our word “wine” is derived from “gvino” – the Georgian word for wine. Archaeological remains suggest that as early as 4000 BC grape juice was being placed in underground clay jars, or quevri (also known as kvevri), to ferment during the winter. The vine is central to Georgian culture and tightly bound to their religious heritage. It is common for families throughout Georgia to grow their own grapes and produce wine. Feasting and hospitality are central pillars of Georgian culture, and traditional banquets are presided over by a toastmaster, or Tamada, who proposes numerous toasts throughout the meal, and ensures the wine flows liberally.
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Georgia is a land famed for its natural bounty. These days there are over 500 species of grape in Georgia, a greater diversity than anywhere else in the world, with around 40 of these grape varieties being used in commercial wine production. Around 150 million litres of wine are produced each year in Georgia, with around 45 000 hectares of vineyards under cultivation. There are 18 Specific Viticulture Areas (a local analogy of the Controlled Appellations of Origin) where the grape variety, planting density and yield per hectare is controlled by Ministry of Agriculture, and where the grape yield per hectare is limited to 8 tons. Georgia’s wines fall into several zones: Kakheti and Kartli in the east, and Imereti, Samegrelo, Guria, Ajaria, and Abkhazia in the west. By far the most important of these is Kakheti, which produces 70% of all Georgian wine. As interest in natural and artisan wine making increases, a great deal of attention has recently been falling on Georgia’s ancient tradition of quevri wine-making. This method of wine-making dates back over 7000 years, and the Georgians are currently seeking to give it special protected heritage status through UNESCO. Quevris are not the same as amphora – firstly, they are much larger, and are buried in the ground up their neck, to preserve a stable temperature.
Secondly, the entire wine making process takes place within the quevri – initial fermentation right through to maturation, with the fermenting grape juice often being left on the skins and even grape stems to produce wines of exceptional flavour and complexity. One of Georgia’s other great wine making traditions, which one cannot help noticing when coming across these wines for the first time, is its semi sweet wines, which appear in both red and white varieties. The Georgian Wine Society stocks a number of these wines, including the famous Kindzmarauli, the less well known but highly regarded varieties of Ojaleshi and Pirosmani, and the magisterial Khvanchkara, the favourite wine of one of Georgia’s most infamous sons, Joseph Stalin. Traditionally, medium sweet wines were produced in the mountainous areas where, due to climate and soil conditions, late harvest and early winter prevented fermentation and the wine stayed sweet. This type of wine was therefore generally used for local and quick consumption, because in spring, when the temperature rose, the wines tended to re-ferment and spoil. Nowadays, famous Georgian semi-sweet wines such as Kindzmarauli and Khvanchkara tend to be created within temperature controlled fermentation tanks at the winery to preserve their higher sugar content.
Around 150 million litres of wine are produced each year in Georgia, with around 45 000 hectares of vineyards under cultivation. GeorgianDay Magazine 47
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SULFUR BATHS IN TBILISI Sulfur baths are one of the major attractions of Tbilisi. The reason for this is the story of the city, according to which the king Gorgasali saw warm sulfur springs, gave the order on the construction of the new capital of his state at this place. Even the name of the city is translated as “warm”.
Baths were not only a place of cure and bathing, but also a significant place for communication. People have stayed here until the morning to discuss problems or share news.
In the XIX century the number of discovered sources on the hillside Tabor was 31, many of which have been equipped with a bath. All baths are situated in the old town and placed on a “bathhouse” street.
Baths were not only a place of cure and bathing, but also a significant place for communication. People have stayed here until the morning to discuss problems or share news. There were also luxurious baths for the princess, baths for gentlemen and officers, and baths for local inhabitants.
Baths here have the names of their first owners. Iraklievskaya Bath is the most ancient in the city - in the XVI century members of the royal family and the princes struggled for its ownership. At the beginning of XVII century there were also built famous baths - Bebutovskaya, Treasury, Sumbatovskaya. And the most magnificent - Orbelianovskaya bath with lancet facade and minarets at the corners. By the way, baths are underground and visible on the surface of the cupola, let the daylight.
Today, thanks to its healing properties, some baths converted into water treatment facilities. A few hours spent in the warm water source makes person feel better and get a lot of fun. Also, here you can visit the swimming pool or a massage. The warm sulfurous bath - is not just a place to wash, but a significant historic place, around which grew the present capital of Georgia - Tbilisi.
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OJAKHURI
THE GENERIC NAME FOR MEAT AND FRIED POTATOES. Ojakhuri is a popular Georgian dish with roasted meat and potatoes. In translation from Georgian ‘Ojakhuri’ means a ‘family meal’.
Ingredients 500 grams of pork, 400 grams of potatoes, 3 medium sized onions, 2 tbs sour cream (or mayonnaise), 2 tbs white wine vinegar, 60 ml of white wine, 50 ml of oil, half tsp of powdered Berberis berries, 1 tbs tomato puree, quarter tsp of dried coriander, 4 dried bay leaves, a pinch of salt and a pinch of pepper.
Instructions Make a marinade: Do this at least 12 hours before cooking so that the meat becomes soft and full of flavor. Cut the pork into medium sized cubes – do not cut the fat off. Cut 2 onions into thin slices. Put the pork and onions into a bowl, thoroughly stir ingredients or use hands to mix. Add powdered Berberis, sour cream, tomato puree, coriander, bay leaves, 10 ml of white wine, 2 tbs white wine vinegar salt and pepper.
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Mix thoroughly and place bowl (covered) in the refrigerator. Leave for at least 12 hours. When the marinade is ready and you are ready to cook remove the marinade from the refrigerator and add to a pan. Do not remove bay leaves. There is no need to add oil as it will fry in its own fat. Fry at a low heat for 10 minutes then add 50 ml of white wine and 30 ml of water. Stir occasionally and then more frequently as the wine and water reduces. Peel and cut potatoes into small pieces. Put oil into another pan and add potatoes when the oil is hot. Fry at a high temperature for 10 minutes until the potatoes become crispy. When the meat looks like the meat in the picture above, fry for a final 3 minutes on a high heat and stir continuously. This will make the outside of the meat crispy but the inside will remain soft. Congratulations, you have made Ojakhuri. Remove bay leaves and serve with a garnish of one thinly sliced onion. Enjoy your Ojakhuri!
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Tiflis Veranda offers exquisite dishes of local and international cuisine, exclusive deserts and brand cocktails, high quality of service, with background of great music.
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CHAKAPULI
POPULAR GEORGIAN STEW Chakapuli (Georgian: ჩაქაფული) is a popular Georgian stew made with lamb or beef, dry white wine, tarragon leaves, unripe (sour) green plums, green onions, green peppers, green coriander, garlic and salt. It is popular in the Spring when the plums are unripe.
Ingredients 700 grams of diced lamb or beef. 150 grams of wild sour green plums. 200 grams of tarragon. 200 grams of green onions. 150 grams fresh green coriander. 2 green peppers, 200 ml of white wine, 30 grams of garlic, 1 liter of water, salt (according to taste). Do not add black or red pepper as this will affect the overall taste. 200 grams of green onions, 150 grams fresh green coriander, 2 green peppers, 200 ml of white wine, 30 grams of garlic, 1 liter of water, salt (according to taste). Do not add black or red pepper as this will affect the overall taste.
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Instructions Add the diced lamb or beef to a deep pan. Pour in 200 ml of white wine and cook on a low heat until the wine reduces (usually 15-20 minutes). Stir occasionally with a wooden spoon. Whilst the meat is cooking, pinch off the tops of the tarragon and strip leaves from their stalks. Chop the tarragon leaves (not too finely). Finely chop the onions, coriander and green peppers. Crush the garlic. Add the chopped ingredients, garlic and plums to the pan containing the meat once the wine has reduced. Add 1 liter of water, cover the pan and cook on a low heat for about one hour. Stir occasionally and add salt (according to taste) near the end of cooking.
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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
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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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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