WHERE TO GO IN BATUMI? PASSENGER NUMBERS AT GEORGIAN AIRPORTS RISE 48.61% RAFTING & KAYAKING IN GEORGIA
RESTAURANTS & BARS GUIDE IN TBILISI
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Content BATUMI TYPES OF TOURISM MOUNTAINOUS AJARA
GEM Fest musical festival launching in Anaklia kayaking in georgia
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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WHERE TO GO IN BATUMI?
SEASIDE AJARA
Batumi is one of the most distinguished tourist destinations on the Black Sea. Batumi’s juxtaposition of ancient and modern architecture, its historical port, serene botanical garden, Seaside Boulevard, European squares and streets - not to mention its world-class hotels, restaurants, cafes and bars - make up the face of modern Georgia.
architects flocked to Batumi and designed numerous unique architectural designs. Development of Batumi was closely connected with the global economic and industrial development. During this period Nobel Brothers and Rothschild family started their commercial activities (businesses) in Batumi.
It is important to note that in 2012 American Academy of Hospitality Sciences nominated Batumi as the best tourist destination of the year.
Batumi today is still distinguished by modern architecture and abundance of investments. In addition, modern Batumi is a cultural centre in Georgia hosting numerous international festivals with participation of famous musicians and artists.
In the second half of the 20th century European
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SEASIDE AJARA The coastline of Ajara is a favorite destination among tourists visiting Georgia and is famous for its numerous resort areas. Ajara’s coastline resorts are located within the municipalities of Khelvachauri and Kobuleti. Kobuleti municipality Kobuleti municipality is an excellent destination for those interested in historical monuments and sightseeing. The municipality has several ancient churches and monasteries, fortresses and arched bridges. The coastline resorts - Kobuleti, Tsikhisdziri and Chakvi - are parts of Kobuleti municipality. Additionally, the
protected areas of Kintrishi, Ispani as well as Mtirala National Park have superb eco-touristic potential and are fascinating destinations for nature lovers. Khelvachauri municipality The seaside resorts of Sarpi, Gonio and Kvariati are situated in Khelvachauri municipality. The unique Roman fortress in Gonio, which dates back to the 1st century AD, demonstrates the region’s connection to the Antique and Byzantine Ages. Khelvachauri municipality offers ecotourism, rural tourism and birdwatching as its primary activities for visitors. (Source: GoBatumi.com) GeorgianDay Magazine 17
WHERE TO GO IN BATUMI?
MOUNTAINOUS AJARA MOUNTAINOUS AJARA The mountainous regions of Ajara include the Keda, Khulo and Shuakhevi municipalities. Each municipality is full of rich and diverse natural beauty. The Meskheti, Arsiani and Shavsheti Ranges create a very interesting geographic relief of Ajara. Their average height is between 2000-2500 meters. Keda municipality Tourists often visit Keda to see the Makhuntseti waterfall. The nearby areas offer authentic restaurants and scenic picnic locations. The Archaristkali mountain and river gorge of Keda municipality are home to a variety of different flora and fauna, as well as other natural beauty, including a waterfall. The plants in the area are primarily deciduous and coniferous. The animal life in the area is also diverse. Additionally, the region has several mineral waters with unique medicinal qualities.
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Shuakhevi municipality Shuakhevi is a typical mountainous municipality full of diverse flora and fauna. Agriculture is the main industry in Shuakhevi. The locals of Shuakhevi pride themselves on their generosity and hospitality. Visitors can get an authentic taste of village life and take part in a variety of farming activities. The area is also excellent for hiking, hunting (wild boars, hares and badgers in particular), horseback riding, rock climbing and cycling. Shuakhevi is also home to the Gomarduli ski resort. Khulo municipality Khulo - a beautiful part of the Ajaran highland - is distinguished by its rich natural beauty, cultural sites and history. Khulo is composed of mount-forest and mountmeadow soils. Deciduous and coniferous trees and plants predominate the area. The beautiful Mtsvane Tba (Green Lake) is located in Khulo municipality. Beshumi is a well-developed summer resort, and Goderdzi, Kedlebi and Danisparauli are ski resorts located within the municipality.
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Picture: Chakvi
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.
GET OUT Situated at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Georgia is a country ripe with diverse natural beauty, maritime and mountainous climates. Georgia has a rich history, and the country’s folklore, traditions, dances and songs are unparalled in their intrigue and beauty. Georgia is also renowned for its exquisite cuisine and wine culture. In fact, Georgia’s winemaking traditions stretch back thousands of years.
The 8000-year-old Georgian winemaking method uses a traditional clay vessel, called a Kvevri and Georgian polyphonic singing are both part of the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List. Additionally, UNESCO recognizes the city of Mtskheta, Gelati Monastery, Bagrati Cathedral and Upper Svaneti as World Heritage Sites. (Source: GoBatumi.com) GeorgianDay Magazine 19
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TYPES OF TOURISM
BATUMI
In Georgia, particularly in Ajara there are truly unique natural conditions to develop different kinds of tourism. The most popular tourism directions are Sea tourism and Ecotourism (Rural Tourism, Bird watching). In recent years other popular tourism directions, such as wine tourism, ski and mountain tourism, Cruise tourism, MICE tourism and Gambling tourism began to develop.
SEA TOURISM Sea tourism is one of the most popular types of tourism in Ajara. The region’s subtropical climate, warm sea air, seaside resort infrastructure and unique geography are the ideal conditions for vacationers. The total length of the swimming area is 21 km. The average sea temperature is 16.7 oC.
ECO TOURISM Ecotourism is one of the leading types of tourism in Ajara. The region’s diverse flora and fauna, as well as abundance of historical and cultural monuments create ideal conditions for ecotourists ecotourism development alike. There are 4 protected areas in the territory of Ajara: Mtirala National Park, Kobuleti Protected Areas, Kintrishi Protected Area and Machakhela National Park.
RURAL TOURISM The picturesque nature, diverse flora and fauna, and hospitable culture make Ajara an excellent region for rural tourism and rural tourism development. Tourist farms in the villages of Ajara offer visitors the chance to involve themselves in many aspects of farm life, including cattle breeding, poultry farming, horticulture, viticulture and bee keeping. Guests can learn about popular national handicrafts, try delicious local dishes made using pure ingredients fresh from the farm, go horseback riding, hunting, fishing, camping and sightseeing.
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CULINARY TOURISM Ajarian cuisine is an insperable part of Georgian cuisine; however, Ajarian cuisine has significant Asian influences. Dairy is a highly prevalent component of the foods typically eaten in the mountains of Ajara. Ajarian Khachapuri is the hallmark of Ajarian cuisine. There are also some must-try traditional sweets.
WINE TOURISM
Winemaking in Georgia dates all the way back to 8000 BC. The traditional Georgian winemaking technique, which uses a traditional clay vessel called a “kvevri”, is a part of the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists. In western Georgia, Ajara has one of the longest lasting traditions of winemaking; Keda Municipality boasts the most well-developed wine culture. “Kedis Tsolikauri” and “Chkhaveri” are two wines produced in Georgia that are unique to Ajara.
BIRDWATCHING The Black Sea Coast, and the surroundings of Batumi in particular, are known as “Eastern Black Sea Migration Corridor”. More than 1 000 000 raptors migrate through the corridor annually and the area has one of the highest volume of raptor migration in the world. The unique topography and climate of the region attract myriad migrating birds. Needless to say, Batumi is a must-visit location for birdwatchers. Villages Sakhalvasho and Chaisubani are located in Kobuleti municipality. Both of them are the best places for those, who share information about ecology and migration of raptors. The marked routes lead visitors directly to equipped platforms for bird watching). Despite these villages, bird watching is also possible in Mtirala National Park, Ispani Bog (Kobuleti protected areas) and Chorokhi delta (Khelvachauri municipality) Since 2012 year, “Batumi Bird Festival” Annually held in Ajara Region. It is important event for bird watchers and many foreigners visit Ajara region in September for the Festival. The idea of festival belongs to the international environment protection organization BRC (Batumi Raptor Count) and it is supported by the Department of Tourism and Resorts of Ajara.
Ajara is home to the picturesque beaches of Batumi, Kvariati, Sarpi, Gonio, Tsikhisdziri, Mtsvane Kontskhi (the Green Cape) and Kobuleti. During the summertime, the beaches are often crowded with tourists enjoying their holidays. GeorgianDay Magazine 23
BATUMITYPES OF TOURISM CULTURAL TOURISM As demonstrated by the remnants of ancient monuments, as well as authentic cultural heritage, the region of Ajara is rich in both its culture and history. Ajarian dances “Khorumi” and “Ajaruli” originate from ancient times. In addition, they occupy an important place in Georgian folklore and perfectly express the Georgian identity. Ajara is also an archeological goldmine. In the 19th cent., Batumi was converted into seaport and European architects started to build the city. Numerous buildings in Batumi were constructed using different architectural styles, all of which contribute to the city’s distinctive and interesting aesthetic. Additionally, AjaraBatumi often hosts major cultural, sports and scientific events, public festivals, international musical and film festivals and so on. Events: > Black Sea International Jazz Festival - July > Batumi International Art-House Film Festival, “BIAFF” - September > International Festival of Animated Films, “Tofuzi” October > Batumi International Classical Music Festival, “Night Serenades” (artistic director: Liana Isakadze - August) > Batumi International Classical Music Festival, “Batumi Music Fest” (artistic director: Eliso Bolkvadze) - July > Batumi Backyard Stories > Batumi Street Art Festival > Festival “Batumoba” - September
Batumi - the “Pearl of the Black Sea” as it is often called - is administrative centre of Ajara. European architects undertook numerous projects in Batumi at the beginning of the 20th cent. Today, Batumi is still a place of numerous architectural innovations. Public Festivals: • Shuamtoba (August) • Machakhloba (September) • Kedeloba (October) • Chakvistaoba (September) • Selimoba (June) • Kolkhoba (August) • Autumn in Keda (October)
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One of the most beautiful regions in Georgia, Ajara is situated in southwest Georgia on the Black Sea coastline. Ajara operates as an autonomous republic in Georgia and has its own flag and coat of arms. Turkey borders Ajara to the south.
GAMBLING Gambling has become a popular tourism offering in Batumi. The city has a wide array of casinos available to local as well as foreign gamblers. At present, the majority of casinos in Batumi are located in within Batumi’s upscale hotels. The recent constructions of upscale hotels in Batumi point to the further development of the casino industry in Ajara.
MOUNTAINOUS SKI TOURISM Apart from sea resorts, the region of Ajara has great potential for ski and mountain tourism. In highlands the climate is humid. Winters are relatively cold and long, while summers are short and cool. The average height of Ajara’s mountains ranges between 2000-2500 meters. There are on-going ski resort infrastructure projects in the mountains, and there are resorts in the area that are open year-round for recreation, relaxation and entertainment.
MICE TOURISM
The well-developed tourist infrastructure, recently constructed middle and up-scale hotels, and other upcoming projects have made Ajara an attractive and promising MICE tourism destination on both the local and international market. Numerous international trade fairs and different events are hosted in Ajara year-round, making the region one of the most important MICE t ourism centers in Georgia.
CRUISE TOURISM Batumi, a logistics center in Caucasus region, started to become a popular cruise destination in the second half of the 20th century. Consequently, interest in Batumi as a Black Sea cruise destination is steadily increasing, resulting in a growing number of cruise ships entering our region. At present Batumi Sea port hosts several big cruise ships, such as: Riviera, Amadeus, Island Sky, Albatros, Silver Wind, Minerva, Spirit of Adventure, Prinsendam, Regatta, Princess Daphne. GeorgianDay Magazine 25
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 27
RAFTING IN GEORGIA In Georgia there are many wild fast flowing rivers fed from glaciers in the surrounding mountains.
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Georgia is a country that has possibilities to do every kind of extreme sport, including rafting. This extreme sport in Georgia became popular since 1980s. Simply raft adventurers navigate through different degrees of rough waters (mostly rivers) in order to thrill and excite themselves as they bump up and down along strong waves and currents.
The basic principle of rafting is to haul down the river current using speedy inflated air-boats that usually have seats differing in number from one to twelve depending on boat type. Rafting season in Georgia starts in April and continues till the end of October. So if you are keen on rafting visit Georgia during this period and experience whitewater rafting in the Caucasus Mountains. There are several categories of rafting that are divided according to the difficulty of the river – class I is the easiest while class IV means life threatening. Rivers in Georgia offer opportunities for almost all rafting categories.
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KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:
WHITE WATER RAFTING
Jonesing for some wet n’ wild exercise that’s a little more extreme than a dip in the pool? Consider hitting some bubbly rapids. Adventure tourism — activities that involve an element of risk plus water, heights, or extreme speeds — is the perfect fit for adrenaline junkies. But if bungee jumping or ejecting yourself from a plane seems a bit too extreme, then try out beginner-friendly white water rafting. Here’s what to expect from that first white water run. Arts and Rafts — The Need-to-Know When we say raft, we don’t mean one like Tom Hanks fashioned in Castaway. We’re talking about an inflatable vessel that cuts through rushing streams and whips around doom-impending boulders. The mission: Propel and maneuver the raft with a paddle through varying grades of rapids. While an expert instructor takes on the brunt of the work, the team-focused exercise also amps strength and endurance levels for all rafters (usually eight per raft). Just a few hours scaling turbulent waters can burn some serious energy (over 300 calories per hour, on average), and work the arms, abs, and core. Frank Mooney, a river guide for over 20 years, says those shoulders and hips might also be a little sore after a day on the river. Adventurers may reap the benefit of some mood boosters, too. A study on wilderness river rafting trips found that rafting touted psychological advantages like relaxation, nature appreciation, or achievement . As far as safety goes, it’s not always the catastrophic stuff to
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watch out for (think capsizing and the like). Minor injuries like slips, trips, and falls were most frequently reported in a study of 21 adventure tourism activities including rafting, horseback riding, and tramping . Risky business may be grounds for injury, but with expert guides, proper instruction, and the right gear, white water rafting makes for a fun (and challenging) activity. Rapido, Rapido! — Your Action Plan To get first-time rapid-goers on their way, we talked to some veteran rafting guides and river experts for a few essential pointers. Here are their suggestions on what to bring, wear, and expect on the water. Start out slow: Experts classify rapids on a scale of 1-6. Class 1 rapids are small with a slow current and low waves, and no obstructions in the water (child’s play), while Class 6 rapids feature large, frequent waves (read: you will fall out and lose your shorts on the way). Wear proper wet gear: Expect to get soaked (who doesn’t love a good chance to show off that itsy bitsy, teenie weenie, yellow polka dot bikini?). And to stave off tush chafing, pack a pair of gym shorts or water-resistant shorts for a barrier to the raft. Reservationist Michelle Fisher recommends wearing synthetic materials because cotton pulls heat away. And to protect the toes, Fisher suggests water shoes over flip-flops.
De-bling: Leave jewelry, grillz, and cash money in the car. Sky Fogal, professional river guide at Pocono Whitewater, says, “The general rule of thumb for river trips is if it got lost or wet and it would ruin your day, don’t bring it.” Protect your noggin: Most facilities require rafters to wear helmets past Class 1 and 2, but it depends on the state, the river, and the company (who will provide them before launching). The right protective equipment, and procedures to hop in and out of the raft minimize the risk factors . Lather up: Logging a solid day in the sun requires some sun block application. “What folks don’t expect is how sunburned the tops of their thighs and neck will be,” says PJ Stevenson, a 17-year rafting veteran.
Stay afloat: Just like swimmies from the kiddie pool days, keep a lifejacket on at all times. In the event that you find yourself in the river, a lifejacket not only serves as a floatation device, but makes it easier for a guide to pull you back onboard. Dry off: Pack a change of clothes, a towel, and some water — though drenched, you’ll likely be thirsty once on land. White water rafting is not only a fun, exhilarating activity for most age groups, but also a way to switch up your workout routine and get some fresh air (and an excessive amount of water). Beginners should shoot for Class 1 and 2 rapids. (Source: Greatist, By Nicole McDermott) GeorgianDay Magazine 31
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.
KAYAKING IN GEORGIA Kayaking is a watersport that involves paddling using a double-bladed oar and a small boat known as a kayak. The boats come in a variety of sizes and types, depending on their intended use, but most kayaks feature an enclosed deck that covers the legs.
with other activities, like camping or fishing. Different kayaks are designed to handle specific conditions. Some are made for taking on white water courses, while others are built for racing and then there’s everything in between. Rivers, lakes, oceans and even surf zones are popular spots for kayaking and due to the different types, everyone from beginners to experts can enjoy the sport. The boat sits low in the water and usually only accommodates a single paddler, but tandem kayaks hold two people and some boats hold three people. Kayaking is a versatile sport that can be done in practically any body of water and is easily pared 32 GeorgianDay Magazine
The beginner-friendliness and the epic challenges are a few of the reasons people kayak, but there are several others. Whether you’re looking to take in the sights in a distinctive way or you’re looking to get a low-impact workout, kayaking has something to offer everyone.
If you’re looking to try kayaking for the first time, it’s best to rent the equipment. The only gear you need is a kayak, a paddle and, in some places, a life jacket. If you’re going camping or fishing, you’ll need other supplies and if you plan on bringing things with you, a waterproof bag is a good idea. In flat-water kayaking, the learning curve is more than manageable, allowing most people to have fun on their first day out. As you progress there are interesting facets of the sport challenging enough to keep even the most advanced paddler interested. Options for expert kayakers include entering races, completing multi-day trips and tackling white water.
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55,000 GEORGIANS USE GEORGIA-EU VISA-FREE BENEFIT Georgia’s Deputy Interior Minister Shalva Khutsishvili says that 55,000 Georgian citizens have made use of Georgia-EU visa-free opportunity since March 28, 2017. 3,000 of those people have not yet returned back, after the expiration of the 90-day period,” Khutsishvili told IPN news agency, saying this may not necessarily mean that the people violated the agreement rule. Khutsishvili stated that part of the people who have not returned back and who have been identified by the Ministry, may have traveled to countries Georgia also has a visa-free regime with.
There are possibilities that from the EU nations a number of people left for Turkey, Ukraine, Belarus and similar countries. Thus, we cannot definitely say now that all 3,000 of them violated the law,” Khutsishvili stated. The Deputy Minister announced that after the Georgia-EU visa liberation came into play a larger number of Georgians traveled to countries to where Georgia has direct flights or where the nation has a big diaspora, like Germany, France, Poland, Greece and several others. (Source: Agenda.ge)
Deputy Minister said many Georgians have already used the Georgia-EU visa liberalization deal for their foreign trips.
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GEM FEST MUSICAL FESTIVAL LAUNCHING WITH BIG NAMES IN ANAKLIA BLACK SEA RESORT This year GEM Fest celebrates its third edition.
Hundreds of artists have arrived at Georgia’s Anaklia seaside resort, set to host tens of thousands of visitors for a month-long GEM Fest, the world’s longest music festival launching today. Led by acts including GusGus, Martin Garrix, Worakls and Paul Kalkbrenner, the star-filled roster will entertain festival-goers in over 3,000 performances at different stages set up on the Black Sea coast. Today’s festival-opening shows will feature nearly a dozen artists including Thomas Melchior, Gio Shengelia and Carlo Lio. They will take to three different stages set up for the event. Following over the remaining 31 days of the festival, some of the biggest names of the popular electronic music scene will take their spots in front of the audiences. Highlighting the scope and profile of GEM Fest, a preview by leading electronic music website Resident Advisor called the event “a stand-out summer party” with “some of the world’s biggest house, techno and trance DJs”. Visitors will also be introduced to shows by local performers, with celebrated Georgian acts on this year’s roster including Autumn Tree, Gacha Bakradze and Tete Noise.
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Apart from musical performances, the festival area will also host activities including sports competitions, yoga and cosplay shows. In addition, organisers have invited visitors to showcase their talents and creations in artistic fields including choreography, lighting design and photography during the event. Launched just two years ago, GEM Fest has already made Anaklia a familiar name for music enthusiasts worldwide. The festival is held near the Administrative Boundary Line (ABL) separating Georgia from its north-western breakaway region of Abkhazia. Its 2016 edition attracted over 30,000 locals and travellers. The location is also notable for the longest pedestrian bridge in Europe, connecting it with the village of Ganmukhuri with a 550 metre-long walkway across the Enguri river. Running through August 14, the 2017 edition of GEM Fest is held within Check in Georgia, a governmental initiative bringing together dozens of festivals, concerts and exhibitions across the country throughout the year. (Source: Agenda.ge)
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www.awards-tourism.com | info@awards-tourism.com +995 555 29 90 03 GeorgianDay Magazine 39
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PASSENGER NUMBERS AT GEORGIAN AIRPORTS RISE 48.61%
Tbilisi International Airport alone served 1,287,228 passengers between January-June 2017.
The number of passengers served at Georgia’s three international airports increased by 48.61 percent in January-June of 2017, while the air transportation of goods rose 40.07 percent. So far this year, 1,609,183 passengers took regular or charter flights from Georgia’s three main airports: Tbilisi Shota Rustaveli International Airport, Batumi International Airport and Kutaisi David Aghmashenebeli International Airport. Tbilisi International Airport alone served 1,287,228 passengers between January-June, which was a 44.11 percent increase year-on-year (y/y), said the Georgian Civil Aviation Agency. Kutaisi International Airport served 184,840 passengers
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this year – a 93.69 percent increase, while Batumi International Airport served 133,418 passengers on regular or charter flights, which was a 43.95 percent increase y/y. Georgia’s rural airports also saw an increase in passengers’ numbers this year. Queen Tamar Airport in Mestia, Svaneti region, served 3,240 passengers, which was a 116.87 percent increase y/y. Meanwhile, Ambrolauri airport in Georgia’s Racha region served passengers for the first time this year and served 457 passengers. In the first six months of 2017, air transportation of goods also displayed a 48.47 percent rise. (Source: Agenda.ge)
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GEORGIA’S EXTERNAL TRADE UP 13.8% IN JANUARY-JUNE Georgia’s external trade grew by 13.8 percent this year and reached $4829.9 million in January-June 2017, says the National Statistics Office of Georgia (Geostat). This year the value of Georgia’s exports increased by 31.8 percent to $1249.5 million, while the value of imports also increased 8.6 percent to $3580.3 million with respect to January-June 2016, said Geostat. Georgia’s trade deficit equalled $2330.8 million this year, which was a 48.3 percent share of the country’s total trade turnover. Trade deficit is an economic measure of the negative balance of trade in which a country’s imports exceed its exports.. (Source: Agenda.ge)
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The value of Georgia’s exports increased by 31.8%, said Geostat.
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BUSINESS GEORGIA
ORGANIZED BUSINESS FORUM CONSTRUCTION GEORGIA 2017
On June 6, at the Hotels & Preference Hualing Tbilisi, BUSINESS GEORGIA organized a Business Forum CONSTRUCTION GEORGIA 2017. Under the theme was discussed construction business as one of the growing sector in Georgia. The event’s main goal was to emphasize such factors as the role of construction sector for economic growth of the country and significant impact of standardization on the construction sector. The participants discussed key directions of the construction industry: Role of construction sector for the economic growth; Safety issues meeting with the standards and highlights on quality; Energy efficiency standards – strategy and obligations of the country; Supply – demand correlation on the market, difficulties of the field; The factors of providers, spectrum of the resources necessary for construction and their
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compliance with the quality; Effective use of resources and successfully implemented large-scale projects; Infrastructural base and influence of technology on the field development; Funding construction business and existed risk factors; Construction sector as an attractive field for investors; Green innovations in construction and Platforms for exchanging information and reaching contractors. The forum represented more than 300 participants, including high level government officials, commercial and international sectors, entrepreneurs and start-ups, construction and developer companies, Importer and Exporter company representatives, Investors, Financial institutions, Insurance sector, investment companies, consulting sector, media, Chambers of Commerce and Industry, individuals
Georgia has 6.951 active construction companies, which proves the importance of this industry for the country, for business sector and for the public in general. who represent decision-making organizations, play a key role in creating effective business environment and developing further process. „Georgia has 6.951 active construction companies, which proves the importance of this industry for the country, for business sector and for the public in general. BUSINESS GEORGIA has gathered all players of this sector to identify, discuss and summaries challenges and new opportunities for further development. There are many investment opportunities for construction projects and our company is connecting foreign investors to the Georgian businesses and spreading necessary business information for local and international audience�, has noted General Director of BUSINESS GEORGIA, Mrs Ana Gogishvili.
BUSINESS GEORGIA is distinguished by organizing business forums and by defining relevant topics it emphasizes the fact and processes that reflects the business environment in the country. By conducting subject based, industry based and regional business forums, company intends to provide all the interested parties with the relevant information and support the ones that are involved in the process of forming business climate for strategic business development in Georgia. Contact person: Tamuna Ubiria BUSINESS GEORGIA E: t.ubiria@businessgeorgia.ge T: 595 885 40 GeorgianDay Magazine 51
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CAVEA CINEMAS NEW MOVIES IN AUGUST
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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 food processor. Georgians recommend that you use a meat grinder.
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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 vinegarmarinated beets.
Restaurant Tiflis Veranda is a combination of classic restaurant & lounge style summer terraces.
Tiflis Veranda offers exquisite dishes of local and international cuisine, exclusive deserts and brand cocktails, high quality of service, with background of great music.
Tiflis Veranda is ready to serve its guests every day, from 11:00 am to 02:00 am GeorgianDay Magazine 61 MORE INFO AND RESERVATION : +995 32 2 000 245 | 3 V.GORGASALI ST. TBILISI
SPINACH AJARIAN KHACHAPURI GEORGIAN CHEESE AND EGG BREAD (ACHARULI KHACHAPURI) WITH SPINACH Ingredients
Directions
For the dough: 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 3/4 teaspoon salt 1 egg 3 tablespoons olive oil 1/2 cup seltzer Melted butter 4 ounces Armenian string cheese or mozzarella
For the dough: In the bowl of a standing mixer fitted with a paddle, mix the flour and the salt. Add the egg, oil, and seltzer, and mix to form a soft dough. Turn out the dough and knead, by hand, for 1 minute, until the dough is elastic. Divide the dough into 4 pieces, form into balls, cover in plastic, and let rest in the refrigerator for 1 hour. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Spinach-Cheese Filling: 4 ounces cream cheese 1/4 cup minced roasted hazelnuts 1 clove garlic, minced 1 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander Pinch cayenne 1/2 teaspoon fenugreek Salt and freshly ground black pepper 1/2 cup cooked spinach 4 ounces feta cheese
When chilled, roll the ball into a square. Trim the edges, and brush with melted butter. Fold the dough in half, and brush with butter. Fold the dough in half again, to make a square. Place 1/2 cup SpinachCheese Filling in the center. Sprinkle with some string cheese. Fold up the corners like a half open envelope. Repeat with remaining ingredients. Bake for 25 minutes.
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Spinach-Cheese Filling: For the Spinach-Cheese Filling: Mix together the cream cheese, hazelnuts, garlic, cilantro, coriander, cayenne, fenugreek, salt, and black pepper. Thoroughly drain the spinach and chop. Mix into the mixture, then fold in the feta. Set aside until ready to use.
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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.
Karabak
ქარაბაქ
Karabak Restaurant
AUTHENTIC TURKISH CUISINE IN TBILISI
ნამდვილი თურქული სამზარეულო თბილისში
TRADITIONAL DISHES MADE FRESH DAILY BY OUR CHEF Magazine 65 24/1 Queen Tamar Ave. Tbilisi | 514 11 00 11 | თამარ მეფის გამზირი GeorgianDay 24/1 თბილისი
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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
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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Refresh Your Life with Non - Stop 24 Hours Music Radio
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