Where.ge #21 June-July Issue by Georgia Today Group

Hotel of the Year 2018 Paragraph resort & sPa shekvetili, autograph collection

where

.ge

your essential guide to Georgia

#21 June-July 2019 Publisher: George Sharashidze Editor in Chief: Katie Ruth Davies Executive Editor: Maka Bibilashvili Contributors: Katie Ruth Davies Maka Bibilashvili Sofia Bochoidze Samantha Guthrie Amy Jones Gabrielle Colchen Lisa Maier Tony Hanmer Vazha Tavberidze Nini Dakhundaridze Lika Chigladze Ana Dumbadze Ketevan Kvaratskheliya Lucy Papachristou Photographers: Irakli Dolidze Designer: Ani Loladze Logo & Design Concept: Kevin Loftus Sales: Sofia Bochoidze Maia Tsereteli Mano Kutchukhidze Sesili Tikaradze Georgia Today Address:1 Melikishvili Ave. TEL 229 59 19 www.georgiatoday.ge

In partnership with the Georgian National Tourism Administration

The answer to the question “where to go, stay, eat, drink and buy?” has never been as clear and concise as it is now – in the summer of 2019, when Russian President Vladimir Putin decided to ban flights from Russia and to create barriers for his citizens to get to their favorite destination for their summer vacation. Mr. Putin, here are our answers to the questions travelers are asking themselves this summer: Where to Go? Go to GEORGIA! Where to Stay? Stay in GEORGIA! Where to Eat? Eat in GEORGIA! Where to Drink? Drink in GEORGIA! Where to Buy? Buy in GEORGIA! Mr. Putin seems to have forgotten that tourists do not choose their next destination in terms of the size of a country, its population, or the volume of its natural resources such as oil and gas! Instead, they make their choice in favor of a country and a people with open hearts, who will give an honest welcome and who boast a high sense of hospitability. In addition to this characteristic appeal, if the country also offers a breath-taking landscape, rich culture, historical heritage, good food and fantastic wine served by friendly people open-heartedly, then the choice is clear. The choice is Georgia! #visitgeorgia #spendyoursummeringeorgia P.S. Although Georgia is a small country, - Small is beautiful! - Less is more! George Sharashidze Publisher WHERE.ge

6 Salome Makharadze Founder UP PR Company

50 Ana Muradashvili General Manager Holiday Inn Telavi

72 Konstantin Tedeluri Brand Chef Jury Member MasterChef

90 Giorgi Chkhaidze Owner Wine Palace Hotel & Brand Wine Georgia

102

Teona Tavartkiladze Designer Founder at Beauty and the Box

WE FLY TO MORE COUNTRIES THAN ANY OTHER AIRLINE

● AMERICA ATLANTA BOGOTÁ BOSTON BUENOS AIRES CARACAS CHICAGO HAVANA HOUSTON LOS ANGELES MIAMI MONTREAL NEW YORK PANAMA SAN FRANCISCO SÃO PAULO TORONTO WASHINGTON DC ● EUROPE AALBORG AMSTERDAM ASTRAKHAN ATHENS BADEN-BADEN BAKU BARCELONA BARI BASEL BATUMI BELGRADE BERLIN BILBAO BILLUND BIRMINGHAM BOLOGNA BORDEAUX BREMEN BRUSSELS BUCHAREST BUDAPEST CATANIA CHISINAU CLUJ COLOGNE CONSTANTA COPENHAGEN DNEPROPETROVSK DONETSK DUBLIN DUBROVNIK DUSSELDORF EDINBURG EKATERINBURG FRANKFURT FRIEDRICHSHAFEN GANJA GENEVA GENOA GOTHENBURG GRAZ HAMBURG HANOVER HELSINKI IVANO-FRANKIVSK KAZAN KHARKIV KHERSON KIEV KOŠICE KRASNODAR LEFKOSA LEIPZIG LISBON LJUBLJANA LONDON LUXEMBOURG LVIV LYON MADRID MALAGA MALTA MANCHESTER MARSEILLE MILAN MINSK MOSCOW MUNICH MUNSTER NAKHCHIVAN NAPLES NICE NOVOSIBIRSK NUREMBERG ODESSA OSLO PARIS PISA PODGORICA PORTO PRAGUE PRISTINA RIGA ROME ROSTOV ROTTERDAM SAINT PETERSBURG SALZBURG SAMARA SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA SARAJEVO SIMFEROPOL SKOPJE SOCHI SOFIA STAVROPOL STOCKHOLM STUTTGART TALLINN TBILISI THESSALONIKI TIRANA TOULOUSE TURIN UFA VALENCIA VARNA VENICE VIENNA VILNIUS VORONEZH WARSAW ZAGREB ZAPORIZHIA ZURICH ● AFRICA ABIDJAN ABUJA ACCRA ADDIS ABABA ALEXANDRIA ALGIERS ANTANANARIVO ASMARA BAMAKO BANJUL BATNA BENGHAZI CAIRO CAPE TOWN CASABLANCA CONAKRY CONSTANTINE COTONOU DAKAR DAR ES SALAAM DJIBOUTI DOUALA DURBAN ENTEBBE FREETOWN HURGHADA JOHANNESBURG JUBA KANO KHARTOUM KIGALI KILIMANJARO KINSHASA LAGOS LIBREVILLE LUSAKA MAURITIUS MAPUTO MARRAKECH MISURATA MOGADISHU MOMBASA MORONI N’DJAMENA NAIROBI NIAMEY NOUAKCHOTT ORAN OUAGADOUGOU SEBHA SEYCHELLES SHARM EL-SHEIKH TLEMCEN TRIPOLI TUNIS YAOUNDÉ ZANZIBAR ● ASIA ABU DHABI ADEN AHVAZ ALEPPO ALMATY AL-QASSIM AMMAN ASHGABAT ASTANA AQABA BAGHDAD BAHRAIN BANGKOK BASRA BEIJING BEIRUT BISHKEK COLOMBO DAMASCUS DAMMAM DHAKA DOHA DUBAI DUSHANBE ERBIL GUANGZHOU HANOI HO CHI MINH CITY HONG KONG ISFAHAN ISLAMABAD JAKARTA JEDDAH KABUL KARACHI KATHMANDU KERMANSHAH KHUJAND KUALA LUMPUR KUWAIT LAHORE MADINAH MALE MANILA MASHHAD MAZAR-I-SHARIF MOSUL MUMBAI MUSCAT NAJAF NEW DELHI OSAKA OSH PHUKET RIYADH SAMARKAND SANAA SEOUL SHANGHAI SHIRAZ SINGAPORE SULAYMANIYAH TABRIZ TA’IF TAIPEI TASHKENT TEHRAN TEL AVIV TOKYO ULAANBAATAR YANBU ● TURKEY ADANA ADIYAMAN AĞRI AMASYA/MERZİFON ANKARA ANTALYA BATMAN BİNGÖL BODRUM BURSA ÇANAKKALE ÇORLU DALAMAN DENİZLİ DİYARBAKIR EDREMİT ELAZIĞ ERZİNCAN ERZURUM ESKİŞEHİR GAZİANTEP HAKKARİ HATAY IĞDIR ISPARTA İSTANBUL İZMİR KAHRAMANMARAŞ KARS KASTAMONU KAYSERİ KOCAELİ KONYA KÜTAHYA MALATYA MARDİN MUŞ NEVŞEHİR ORDU GİRESUN SAMSUN SİİRT SİNOP SİVAS ŞANLIURFA ŞIRNAK TOKAT TRABZON UŞAK VAN

turkishairlines.com

to go

Where to Go for Summer Fun . . . e c i o h C y M

Salome Makharadze Founder of UP PR Company

UPX UPX – a place where you can get a full taste of Georgia, learn Georgian singing and relax. UPX is a complex on the Tbilisi Sea, where, through exciting hour-long master classes, tourists are introduced to Georgia through song and cuisine. UPX is both in the capital but not, close to the clouds but not quite in them (if you want to go that high, how about a Motoplane flight? Guaranteed adrenaline and fun!). If you prefer water, go jet-skiing or relax in (or by) the pool. Enjoy an evening in the UPX forest-park where hammocks, a bar and ice cream tunnel can be found- you might even spot a dinosaur or two. Be enchanted by musicians and an exhibition-sale of Georgian handmade products. You can even ride horses like a real “Georgian” rider! Enjoy modern and traditional elements of little Georgia, and then discover all the regions of this most hospitable country. Let’s go West…

ImEREtI Imereti is well-known for its honesty, hospitality and sightseeing. Kutaisi is the heart of Imereti, once the main capital of Georgia, so our history here comes to life in the fortresses, churches and monasteries. Sataplia and the Karst caves are not only the most spectacular sights in Georgia, but in the world.

GURIA, BAkhmARO It is said that people in Guria are the fastest and most cheerful, and you’ll be convinced by the Georgian hazelnut plantations and the relaxation to be found in Bakhmaro. Taste the air, touch the clouds and feel free. Guria boasts both mountain and sea resorts, and in one season you can enjoy both. The coast is known for its magnetic black healing sand. After visiting Guria, you will have a lot of fun stories to tell… and then you can move to Samegrelo.

SAmEGRElO The humid subtropical climate will follow you from the coast of Guria to the 13 beautiful lakes in Samegrelo, with a coastline that meets Abkhazia via the deep-water port Anaklia (under construction). Relax at the Martvili and Okatse Canyons and enjoy the breath-taking views. The live history and cultural monuments are also a great way to get a sense of the region. The cuisine is also very tasty- where nuts and paprika dominate the kitchen.

ABkhAzIA Via the beautiful bridge of Anaklia from Samegrelo we would like to take you to Abkhazia but can’t…. With the most stunning resorts of the Black Sea, combined sea and mountain air, citrus and exotic fruits - Abkhazia is the most beautiful part of Georgia. However, neither we nor our guests can go there because it is occupied. Maybe we can host you next time in Sokhumi, for we will definitely be back there one day. Before that, you have to see sunny Adjara instead, the strong and severe towers of Svaneti, East Georgia, Kartli and Mtianeti. “Great” and interesting is my little Georgia, a country that especially loves you, all its guests.

Traveling in wild nature

Do you like hiking and horse riding? The Lagodekhi Protected Areas offers you diverse hiking trails, waterfalls, and ancient fortresses. Are you ambitious person who loves sport? Three days duration trip to Black Rock Lake awaits you! Lagodekhi Protected Areas is the rich territory with its landscapes that is located in Northern-Eastern part of Caucasus ridge. Lagodekhi Protected Areas is

famous with its biodiversity. There are beautiful cliffs as well on place. It is unique territory, without any analogue.

patrolling on place. Animals are habitats in strict nature reserve, where tourists are not allowed.

You are able to visit Rocho Waterfall, Ninoskhevi Waterfall, Machi Fortress and Black Rock Lake at Lagodekhi Protected Areas. There are arranged 5 touristic trails which guides you to the sightseeing. Since the trails are marked there is almost zero chance to be lost, besides that rangers are

The central entrance part of Lagodekhi Protected Areas is integrated with visitor center and administration building. There are arranged exposition hall at administration building, where visitors are able to get to know services prices, and security rules of Lagodekhi National Park.

We Create Memories

www.nationalparks.ge

The 4th Tourism & Hospitality Conference Held within Welcome to Georgia! National Tourism Awards By Nini Dakhundaridze

On June 18, the Radisson Blu Iveria hotel hosted the 4th Tourism and Hospitality Conference, organized within the framework of the Welcome to Georgia! National Tourism Awards. It brought together nearly 400 representatives of the public and private sectors as participants and attendees. Maryna Chayka, Founder of the Welcome to Georgia! National Tourism Awards, was the first to open the conference with a

speech, followed by Genadi Arveladze, Deputy Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia; Giorgi Danelia, Chief Investment Officer at Partnership Fund; and Anna Kekelia, Head of the Brand Development Department at the Georgian National Tourism Agency. All of the presenters spoke about the current situation in the tourism and hospitality industry in Georgia, outlined the challenges that are set to be overcome in the near future, and noted that holding

this type of conference is vital in terms of bringing different companies and services together and giving an opportunity to the sector for the further development. “The tourism sector is one of the fastestgrowing industries in our economy, and contributes much to the country’s economic development,” stated Genadi Arveladze, adding, “This annual conference offers an important platform for discussion on issues related to the industry.”

The 4th Conference was divided into four panels: Governmental Presentations on Challenges and Perspectives / Statistics; Old and New rules of Hospitality; Responsible Tourism and Sustainability; Georgia and the World - Raising Awareness, seeing Georgian and foreign experts in the field and top market suppliers take to the stage to speak and participate in panel discussions about the challenges and perspectives of the hospitality industry in Georgia. Themes included safety and crisis management and relevant trainings for members of staff, strategies for sustainable and eco-friendly tourism, as well as problems related to over-tourism. Each panel was rounded off with a Q&A session, while the lunch and coffee breaks provided ample chance for guests to intermingle and acquire new contacts. Along with the vital issues of the tourism and hospitality industry, a detailed presentation about the 5th Anniversary Welcome to Georgia! National Tourism Awards 2019 competition was launched, seeing new nominations added to the list of awards.

Georgia, Tbilisi City Hall and Partnership Fund, Co-organizers: Georgian National Tourism Administration and Bank of

Georgia. Project’s Independent Auditor – “BDO in Georgia”, General Sponsor – Alliance Group.

The panels were followed by B2B meetings, giving all the major and minor companies operating in the industry a wonderful chance to present their businesses and obtain new contacts from among the key players of the field. The 4th Tourism & Hospitality Conference represents a unique platform for information exchange, cooperating with potential partners and clientele and following the latest trends of the field. The project is supported by: the Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development of

Literature Tour in Tbilisi By Nini Dakhundaridze

Have you ever taken an early morning walk in Tbilisi? I mean a 5.30 AM morning walk – when birds are chirping and your footsteps are the loudest noise in the streets. Tbilisi is so calm early in the morning that it will seem surreal for you to imagine that in a matter of hours, people will emerge to start rushing here and there, making so much noise that you’ll hardly hear the person walking beside you talking. Other than really early morning walks, I only know one way in Tbilisi to awaken that sophisticated peace inside your being. That is, going on a literature tour.

1967, the Museum of Literature bears the name of Giorgi Leonidze (manager of the museum for 22 years) who co-created the museum with David Arsenashvili and poet Titsian Tabidze, a great supporter and advocator of the initiative.

thE GIORGI lEONIDzE StAtE mUSEUm Of lItERAtURE Founded in 1930, the Giorgi Leonidze State Museum of Literature still plays an important role in Georgian literature. During the museum’s first years, it was

based on Mtatsminda Mount, the symbolic place for Georgian literature, since the Mtatsminda Pantheon is where most prominent writers and poets of Georgia were buried. However, upon the expansion of its archive, the museum moved to a different address, 8 Giorgi Chanturia Street, a historic building built in the late 19th century, previously residence of the Deputy Viceroy in the Caucasus. Since

The Literature Museum has the richest collection of Georgian literature, in fact the belongings of many of Georgia’s key literary figures, among them Ilia Chavchavadze, Akaki Tsereteli, Vaja Pshavela, Galaktion Tabidze, Titsian Tabidze and others, are kept there. The Literature Museum is also home to the works of the Nobel Prize for Literature winner, Russian writer Boris Pasternak, who called Georgia his “second homeland,” and German writer Arthur Leist, who lived in Georgia. The museum hosts different temporary and permanent exhibitions, performances and movie screenings. Find out more about current events on their Facebook page. 8 Chanturia Str., Tbilisi (+995) 32 293 50 19 10 AM – 6 PM Tuesday to Sunday

Ilia and Ajara, with photo and paper extracts decorating every room. The place, like all other literature related museums in Georgia, has that artistic, aristocratic charm that brings out the inner sophisticated peace that we mentioned at the beginning of the article. 7 I. Javakhishvili Str., Tbilisi. (+995) 32 295 70 78 10 AM – 5 PM, Tuesday – Saturday

WRItERS’ hOUSE

NAtIONAl PARlIAmENtARy lIBRARy

Tsereteli playing Ludovico Einaudi’s piano piece “Giorni Dispari” went viral on an international level. A place well worth a visit!

Located on Gudiashvili St., which most Tbilisi residents would call the core of the city, the National Parliamentary Library of Georgia is Georgia’s main book depository. It is also easily and accurately the most important cultural, educational, scientific, informational and methodological center of Georgia.

7 Gudiashvili Str., Tbilisi (+995) 32 297 16 02 9.30 AM – 8.00 PM, Monday-Sunday Tbilisi offers something for those seeking house-museums of Georgian literary figures, too.

The Library was established in 1846 and started functioning as the first public library for Tbilisi citizens. In 1990, the Library was granted the name “National Library of Georgia” and in December of 1996, it came under control of the Parliament of Georgia.

The Ilia Chavchavadze House-Museum for one, on Ivane Javakhishvili Street. Transformed in 1957 into a Museum, what used to be a place of residence for Ilia Chavchavadze, his wife Olgha Guramishvili, and his sister in 1889-1901, also used to be the location of the printing house of the historically crucial newspaper “Iveria”.

In 2015, it gained public attention when a video of a security guard called Omar

Visitors can enjoy thematically presented exhibitions: Ilia and Russia, Ilia and Spain,

The mansion called the Writers’ House, built in 1903-1905 by German and Georgian architects, is a great example of Art Nouveau, perfectly combining Georgian and European architectural styles. The design of the house is unique, with such styles only to be seen in three other places in Europe- Cologne Cathedral in Germany, the Abbey of Einsiedeln in Switzerland and the Bolshoi Theater in Moscow. David Sarajishvili and his wife Ekaterine Porakishvili lived in the mansion until Sarajishvili’s death in 1911. Upon the Sovietization of Georgia, in 1921 the house was bestowed to writers and different art circles of Georgia. Since the early 20th century, the palace has been the center and witness of many historical events, increasing its memorial legacy. Among interesting memories this house holds, some are tragic, as on the second floor of the Writers’ House Paolo Iashvili committed suicide while the meeting of Writers’ Union was ongoing downstairs. That and other tragic, historical, mystical, and fascinating stories related to the building make Writers’ House a great exam-

Romantic poet Nikoloz Baratashvili. Now it’s home to his legacy; Baratashvili’s life and works and his romantic soul now reside here. You’ll find yourself in one of Baratashvili’s poems from his early works when you visit this wonderful 19th century monument. 17 Chakhrukhadze Str., Tbilisi (+995) 32 299 06 99 11 AM – 4 PM, Monday – Friday

thE mIkhEIl JAvAkhIShvIlI hOUSE-mUSEUm ple of Soviet repression, as well as a great example of Art Nouveau. In October 2008, the building was passed on to the Writers’ House, to be, according to its concept, an open institution. Today, Writers’ House is a place where writers and artists can share their works without uniting in separate unions, while having the opportunity to get actively involved in significant international literary and art processes. The top floor of the house currently serves as a hotel where visiting writers can absorb the utmost of Georgian culture and its artistic and aristocratic legacy. Writers’ House also has a special residence for those aiming to come and write. Each room in the residence is named after one of five great foreign writers that are connected with Georgia: Alexander Dumas, Nizami Ganjavi, Boris Pasternak, Oliver Wardrop and John Steinbeck. Each room has a distinctive design, decorated with careful attention to every little detail.

The yard of the house is home to a lovely garden and also to Café Littera, where you can taste delicious cuisine surrounded by an artistic, almost magical atmosphere. 13 I. Machabeli Str., Tbilisi (+995) 32 297 4101 11 AM – 7 PM, Monday – Friday

NIkOlOz BARAtAShvIlI hOUSE mUSEUm

Let’s turn to poetic charm. Established in 1982 as a house-museum, this place used to be the apartment of famous Georgian

Last and certainly not the least on our literature tour is the house-museum of famous Georgian writer Mikheil Javakhishvili. Located on the street rightfully named after him, the House-Museum shows its visitors the life, work and personal belongings of Javakhishvili. The place holds a knowing atmosphere of the impossible balance between an easy life and a creative mind. Mikheil Javakhishvili was executed in 1937, during Stalin’s Great Purge. 21 M. Javakhishvili Str., Tbilisi (+995) 32 292 03 67 11 AM – 5 PM, Monday – Friday

Kazbegi Sightseeing By Samantha Guthrie

The picturesque town of Kazbegi (officially called Stepantsminda) is located in north eastern Georgia, approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes north of Tbilisi by road. The Caucasus Mountains loom imposing over the town, creating what seems like endless hills, valleys, cliffs and gorges to explore. Hiking in the area is spectacular, with both natural and manmade beauties, such as the Gergeti Trinity Monastery, which sits on top of a mountain as if placed there by a crane, framed dramatically against the background of year-round snowcapped Mt. Kazbek. A trip to the mountains is mandatory for everyone who sets foot in this Caucasus country, and Kazbegi is undoubtedly one of the best places to see the beauty, drama, soul, and traditions of the higher altitudes. A day trip from Tbilisi is possible, but we recommend staying at least one night to get the full experience! Here are some of our favorite sites to see while visiting Kazbegi:

GERGEtI tRINIty mONAStERy

surrounding villages, colorful dots throughout the landscape, and in the other direction, the Caucasus Mountains and, beyond, Russia’s North Ossetia.

Visitors to Dariali Monastery will also get a glimpse of the modern-day border crossing into Russia, and the long line of cars and trucks waiting their turn.

DARIAlI mONAStERy GvElEtI WAtERfAll

Sure, it might be a cliché, but it is for a reason. Gergeti Trinity Monastery is the most visited, and most photographed, site in Kazbegi. The beautiful church can be reached through a medium-difficulty hike, about two hours from the town center, or by hiring a seat in a car. With the new road built in 2018, most cars can make it up without a problem. The church was built in the 14th century, at 2,170m above sea level, and itself holds many secrets, including beautiful icons, carvings, and murals. The view from the top is stunning – in one direction Kazbegi town and its

This monastery complex has much less history than its neighbor, Gergeti Trinity, but it’s still worth a visit. Dariali was completed in 2011, in beautiful purplehued local stone. The Dariali Gorge where the monastery sits is of strategic importance – it has historically been one of the primary crossings of the Caucasus Mountains between Georgia and Russia.

Gveleti means “place of snakes” in Georgian, but don’t worry – we’ve never

actually seen a snake here! An easy and fun hike brings you to a beautiful waterfall that splashes down around rocks and tree roots. On a sunny day, it’s a great place for a picnic. In the winter, the water is dramatically frozen. Grabbing a taxi from Kazbegi’s main square is easy, and will cost you 30-50 GEL – or you can hitchhike! It’s just a few kilometers and there are always friendly tourists driving to and from the Russian border.

take advantage of on hot summer days. There is no road or trail leading to the waterfall, so best to have a local show you the way.

StEPANtSmINDA hIStORIcAl mUSEUm JUtA vAllEy

SNO fORtRESS The village of Sno is famous for three things – as the birthplace of the current Patriarch of the Georgian Orthodox Church, for a popular brand of bottled spring water, and for Sno Fortress. The small tower sits on a high stone base that is easy enough to climb into with a boost, with no guards or even signs warning visitors to preserve the heritage. The fortress is thought to have been built in the 16th or 17th century.

ARShA WAtERfAll A slightly smaller but equally charming waterfall, Arsha is more easily accessible than Gveleti. Arsha Waterfall is located in, unsurprisingly, the village of Arsha. It drops down starkly from a high cliff face into a cold stream below that cows often

stone carvings, 19th century saddle bags decorated in the local Khevi style, and local artwork. For just 3 GEL – it’s definitely worth a visit! And it’s the perfect place to go on a rainy day.

Formerly the Alexander Kazbegi House Museum, the museum is located in the famous 19th-century writer’s childhood home. It houses exhibits that demonstrate the history and culture of the local area. Although descriptions of items are not always in English, there are some interesting things to see, including ancient

If you love hiking, look no further than the Juta Valley. You can hire a 4X4 to take you to the start of the trail from the center of Kazbegi. There are options for hikers of all interests and experience levels. For a more leisurely afternoon, stroll for an hour or two along mostly flat land to the Chaukhi Massif, with its seven jagged peaks, through a stunning valley dotted with huge boulders – perfect for a lunch break! For those with a bit (or a lot) more stamina, you can walk all the way to the isolated Khevsureti region on this trail! Hikers will climb as high as 3,431 meters to cross the Chaukhi Pass. If you make it past that, you will be rewarded with the incredible Abudelauri lakes, which sparkle in different shades of blue-green. The hike from Juta all the way to Roshka, in Khevsureti, is about 18 km/9 hours.

Shopping and Entertainment City

Tbilisi, Kakheti Highway , 2 AI. Tvalchrelidze st

Attracting More Tourists to Tusheti’s Mountainous Villages By vazha tavberidze

For the first time ever, I found myself in Tusheti in 2001, when some of my friends and I equipped ourselves with tents and sleeping bags and went down the most difficult road in this beautiful corner of Georgia. At that time, it was possible to get to Tusheti only by Soviet truck “KAMAZ”, and it took almost half a day to cover a 85-kilometer road from Alvani to Omalo. Once in Omalo, we were finally convinced that this spectacular corner of Georgia was absolutely cut off from the

outside world, civilization and modernity. There was no water, no power, no hotel, nor even a way to buy some bread in the villages of Tusheti. I traveled to Tusheti for the second time last summer. I can honestly say that I did not expect special changes there, but my unforgettable visit 16 years ago was radically different from what I found in the now modernized region. Almost all locals in Tusheti have a guesthouse. In the hotels, there is electricity and running hot/cold water; in the villages, you will find food

without problem. In short, all the conditions now exist to ensure that tourists leave with an unforgettable impression. That is why the number of tourists is increasing from year to year, and in parallel, it is obvious that the employment of Tushetians in this field is growing. Czech Development Agency and NGO ‘Caritas Czech Republic in Georgia’ (CCRG) greatly contributed to developing the agriculture in Tusheti and rousing the locals’ interest in the tourism field. It was due to their assistance that in the villages

of Tusheti they began to develop solar energy a few years ago. The project was funded by the Czech Development Agency. Installing solar panels and batteries allowed Tushetians to start their own small businesses and to become employed in the tourism field. As a result, family-run hotels appeared, where there is also electricity and hot water.

hotel ‘Shina’ has 9.2/10 points for cleanliness and 9.2/10 points for location. Another resident of Omalo, Eteri Markhvaidze, is the owner of hostel and store ‘Tishe,’ which offers a variety of products to customers. With the help of the Czechs,

Eteri purchased solar panels. The permanent power allowed the hostel to work at full capacity. Hostel guests and guests who stay in tents are supplied with laundry facilities, showers and Wi-Fi. “After I had power, revenue went up. I can purchase more products and store them in

Another project implemented by CCRG is the development of cooperatives in Tusheti. The cooperatives allowed the locals to grow more agricultural products using the correct agro-technical approaches, and to offer tourists natural products. Together solar panels, cooperatives and guest houses have made Tusheti even more attractive for tourists, and the locals received a stable source of income. Natia Bakuridze is one of those Tushetians who expanded her business with the help of CCRG. Natia opened one of the most popular hotels in Tusheti, ‘Shina,’ in 2010. Her two children and several local residents also work there. A few months ago, Natia purchased an oven with the help of Caritas, making it possible to cook different pastries, bread and pizza. So if Georgian cuisine is not to your taste, you can now give Tushetian pizza a try instead. “After the purchase of the oven, the number of guests in the hotel increased by 15%, as we offer freshly baked bread and pastries. All this has reflected in the growth of income,” says Natia, who supplies the neighboring hotels and cafés with pastries. ‘Shina’ is already well known worldwide. Today, before booking anywhere, we all read reviews online. In this case, on the world’s number one portal Booking.com,

refrigerators. I used to ferment matsoni, but in a very small amount and I didn’t earn anything from it. Now that I have refrigerators, I started to make money. It has also enabled me to improve the quality of service,” Eteri said. The cooperative ‘Tusheti 2015’ was founded and developed thanks to the assistance of CCRG. The cooperative comprises of six families from Omalo. In addition, CCRG contributed to the construction of a shopping booth in the village of Omalo. A few months ago, CCRG gave a shopping booth to ‘Tusheti 2015’, where members of the cooperative sell their produce. The members of “Tusheti 2015” mostly possess potato and cucumber farms. Last year, they grew 900kg of cucumbers. Makvala Melaidze, Chairwoman of the cooperative, says that in Tusheti, the owners of hotels bring potatoes from the valley because local potatoes come only in late September. Apart from the cooperatives, other families started to grow different varieties of potato and are pleased with the fact that despite the drought, they had a better harvest than in previous years using good seed material and a proper agro technique. Onise Ichirauli, who is a ranger in the Tusheti National Park and knows Tusheti’s conditions well, decided to engage in beekeeping and when CCRG announced a business grant program to help the locals in Tusheti, he applied for it. Today he owns 15 hives. “Our honey stands out for its qualities and there’s a great demand for it. Next year, I plan to produce 300 kilograms of honey

and to supply it to local hotels,” said Onise. In addition, he plans to produce candles and raw propolis chunks.

the year. The couple are employed in various fields – they run the guesthouse, cultivate vegetables and potatoes.

Tusheti also needs the boldness of youth: 27-year-old Dato Mosaidze and 22-yearold Giorgi Ichuaidze are from Omalo. Giorgi was educated in Europe, but returned to his homeland to connect his future with Tusheti. Young people in Omalo run guesthouses and breweries.

“Potatoes were planted on an area of 0.4 hectares. I would have planted more, but the absence of techniques prevented me from doing so. Last year, I sold my seed potatoes in the villages of Shenako and Omalo for 2 GEL. With the help of CCRG, I also purchased a dryer that dries up herbs in a way that keeps their color and aroma. We sell our products year-round,” says Irakli Bukvaidze.

Tourists in Tusheti can participate in brewing and tasting takes place on location. We tasted Tushetian beer, and will not easily forget the taste of it. By tradition, women are not allowed to go to the brewery and at traditional Tushetian festivities, men and women’s beer is brewed separately. This season, the young people sold 100 liters of beer, a good indicator for one touristic season, which lasts only four months in Tusheti.

“Tusheti has become an example of development for mountainous regions of Georgia,” says Ekaterine Meskhrikadze, Head of the Czech Republic Caritas Mission in Georgia. “With the support of the Czech Development Agency, we contributed to the improvement of the economic situation of the local population by implementing various activities and carrying out financial interventions.”

64-year-old Irakli Bukvaidze is well known in Tusheti and beyond. He, along with his wife, are the only residents in the village of Shenako who remain in Tusheti throughout

“CCRG continues to work in the region, and hopefully we will have more important results in cooperation with other donors during the next one year,” she added.

Discover the Alazani Valley as Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve Never Seen It Before By katie Ruth Davies

The Alazani Valley in Kakheti, eastern Georgia, is among the most beautiful vineyard valleys in the world. It takes its name from the Alazani River that flows for 218 miles (3151km) along the eastern border of Georgia. Anyone whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been here for a while will be familiar with the magic of the Alazani Valley: vines, woodland and meadows stretching for kilometers either side of the snaking river, with hills on one side and

the snowy peaks of the Caucasus Mountains on the other. No photographer, however inexperienced, can fail to take an incredible shot there. Most of us who have been there have taken in that incredible view with a glass of wine (or two) from a beautifully paved hotel terrace or a wooden guest-house balcony, warmed by the late afternoon sun or cooled by the gentle breeze. Even in autumn and winter the Valley is magic; less green, yes, but in October the oranges and reds replace that

green and in winter, browns and grays are set against the bright white snow in the distance. But what if you could see it all from a new perspective? What if you could float above like a bird, at the whim of the wind, soaking up the peace of nature and letting go your worries? Sky Travel Ballooning offers just that. We met the pilot, Zura, and co-owner, Liliana, at the just-after-dawn hour of 6am,

the minibus having picked us up from our hotel. They do offer evening flights, but the weather is usually not as calm and stable up above then, so early hours are preferred. We watched as the pilot and local crew unrolled the massive balloon, hitched it to the basket (all made in one of the top balloon-making countries in the

balloons for three persons, and one for eight. Two of them are from Britain (Cameron) and two are from the Czech Republic (Kubicek). When the pilot was satisfied the balloon was ready, his crew untied it and let go of the basket and we gracefully floated up and away.

vines in neat rows between the areas of woodland; the patchwork of fields, like our balloon, showing the true skill of Man.

world- Cameron) and began to fill it with cool air. We stood ready to climb inwhich had to be done quickly once Zura lit the burners and the hot air began inflating the balloon- a gloriously huge patchwork of sky-blue, green, gray and black. A hop-and-a-jump and we were in the basket. The pilot stood in the middle section with the giant gas cannisters, and his passengers were divided equally into the two sections either side of him. I was told they have this, a basket for 16, two

While the regular bursts of flame from the gas burners are loud and hot, the peace felt between those bursts is something truly special; floating just above the treetops, which from that height that looked like a model-makerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s craftmanship, then up to 750 meters to enjoy the snaking Alazani River stretching across the Valley and reflecting the rising sun. Telavi, Sighnaghi, Kvareli and small villages could be seen here-and-there, but the biggest visual impact came from the spread of ripening

worn from tending to the earth. Men were also with them, brown, weathered faces breaking into grins as we drifted down to within meters of them; waving and nodding to their offers to join them for wine.

The only other humans up at that hour were the farmers and vine-workers; women in long skirts and aprons with straw hats on their heads, their hands

At every stage of our flight, the pilot was in touch with his colleagues below by walkie-talkie. One of the preconditions for commercial flying is that the area has ample start and drop-off points and that it

be well accessible to road vehicle so the passengers and balloon can be easily collected after the flight. The Alazani Valley is perfect in this regard, as is the company’s second flight zone- the Kartli Valley near Mukhrani, some 30 minutes north of Tbilisi. All too soon, Zura had spotted a good place to set us down- a rectangle of open, farrow land. After bringing us up for one last photo-session of the incredible view, he let us gently drift to the earth again. We were instructed simply to bend our knees and hold tight to the rope loops inside the basket. The bump was minimal, a small lift, and then we were down, the fire was out, and the balloon slowly began to deflate to the side of us. We applauded Zaza who, we found out, like his fellow pilot Levan, has some 13 years’ experience in this enviable job, and climbed out of the basket. We were then officially welcomed into the ballooning community and presented certificates by the co-owner, a lovely lady called Liliana from Bulgaria, who is married to the founder of the company, Revaz Uturgauri. She told us the story of the first balloon, which I’ll present for you below. “The first hot air balloon flight in Georgia was undertaken by a French balloonist called Bede on November 10th, 1882. Bede rose nearly 300 meters into the air in a Montgolfier balloon from Mushtaidi Gardens in Tiflis (Tbilisi). Ten years later, in Tiflis, balloonist Ogust Gordon took a donkey up into the air with him. During the flight he mounted the animal, which became frightened and began braying. Inspired by Gordon, Tiflis businessmen Poladov, Gumiashvili and Bakradze decided to organize commercial balloon-

ing in the capital. They offered hot air balloon rides, in the company of a donkey, in Alexandrov Gardens, but no one was willing to fly in the balloon and the donkey was sent up on its own. The balloon came down in Avlabari near Metekhi Castle. When the businessmen got there, they found that the basket was empty and the donkey had been stolen. This put an end to Georgian commercial ballooning for more than one hundred years (and donkey ballooning forever).” [Source: Georgian Ballooning Open] To modern times, Sky Travel was given the status of ‘airline’ by the Civil Aviation Administration in 2005, meaning it could fly and set up its own pilot school. It was allotted flight zones countrywide by the Georgian Air Navigation Administration and since then both commercial and private flights have been taking place annually in Georgia. Revaz and Liliana are looking to open their own pilot school in the near future in order to expand their fleet due to the popularity of their balloon flights. I’ll leave you now with the words of Revaz

Uturgauri, as, if my description hasn’t convinced you to give it a try, then his surely will: “The spellbinding beauty of our Earth as it opens up from above, particularly in the morning or evening light when the sun is closer to the horizon, is too wonderous to put into words. While flying, you are enveloped in absolute silence. The balloon moves smoothly, not much faster than walking pace. You don’t feel the wind, since the balloon moves at the same speed. Flying in a hot air balloon is something extremely emotional, the sensation it arouses cannot be compared to any other adventure in the world!” A 40-50-minute air balloon flight with Sky Travel costs $130 per person, which includes pick-up, drop-off to the start site, water, champagne, a flight certificate and a breath-taking experience you’ll never forget! Get online for more information or to book your flight: https://www.facebook.com/ skytravel.ge/

New on the Art Scene tBIlISI GAtE GAllERy 7 Baratishvili Str., Tbilisi (+995) 558 79 68 10 10 AM - 10 PM

special area at Gallery which is available for renting and launching a number of different exhibitions.

near the city and attended the Gymnasium school in Kutaisi – would become world influencers in trans-national art.

With its colorful paintings and wonderful open air café-bar, Tbilisi Gate Gallery is one of the best locations, promising a great atmosphere in which to spend time with friends and talented artists.

Artisterium 2019 also includes a Tbilisi presentation of the project at Tbilisi History Museum (19-20 June), via video and photo documentation of the Kutaisi exhibitions and art events. The exhibitions in Kutaisi will last untill June 30. The exhibitions will host: David Kakabadze Kutaisi Fine Art Gallery (8 Rustaveli Str., Kutaisi) and Vladimir Mayakovski House Museum (Baghdati, 51 Baghdati Str.).

ARtIStERIUm 2019 IN kUtAISI

mUSEUm Of IllUSIONS Tbilisi – an eclectic city, full of historical and modern sightseeing, offers yet another go-to destination to art enthusiasts, called Tbilisi Gate Gallery. Gate Gallery is a multifunctional area launched by three contemporary artists nearly a year ago, aspiring to increase public interest in the arts. Visitors to Tbilisi Gate Gallery are given a chance to see ‘live-art’, which means that they can see how the artists mix the colors and create their works. Then they can buy the paintings when they’re done! While soaking up the artistic and picturesque atmosphere of Tbilisi Gate Gallery, visitors can also enjoy a variety of drinks and Georgian dishes against a background of live music. The location is especially attractive for painters and sculptors, as there is a

10 Betlemi Str. (+995) 596 04 74 74 10 AM - 10 PM

In 2019 “Artisterium” moves out to the Georgian regions. Its aim is to share the ten years experience of international art and develop a new, decentralized audience for the artistic dynamism of Georgia. Kutaisi is the first city of the Artisterium’s new mission. The city boasts a rich modernist tradition of its own and played a key role in the development of contemporary Georgian culture. 2019 also marks the 130th anniversary of Georgia’s most famous modernist artist Davit Kakabadze (1889-1952) who was born not far from the city in the village of Kukhi, Imereti. Both he and Vladimir Mayakovsky (1893-1930) - who also spent his early life

Get ready to check out a space where you can laugh, scream, take pictures and do many other things that are usually forbidden in museums. Not your typical museum, at the Illusion Museum, visitors can find out about human vision, perception and science through attractive and entertaining installations, and enjoy a gaming room and souvenir shop where visitors of all ages can play, compete, learn something new and buy original gifts. The museum collection consists of more than 70 exhibits based on knowledge of science, mathematics, biology and psychology. You can find information and explanations next to the exhibits in Georgian, English and Russian.

Lego & Stone By tony hanmer

during its run, from about 500 BC to 500 AD.) Given such a tumultuous history, perhaps it is normal for the visitor to expect to see a great variety of architectural styles present in the city whose name means “warm” (from its hot springs). This is certainly the case. Not only have the ancient beginnings left their mark and been reconstructed as faithfully as possible, but quite a few more modern influences and generations of rulers and cultures have also sprinkled themselves liberally around the metropolis of about 1.5 million dwellers. Here we will skip over the truly ancient, and the Russian Empire-era and most of the Soviet period too, in order to focus on what has come after all these. There is plenty to astound and amuse from these latter years, whether its choice and construction were orderly and lawful or sped through under the table as vast monies changed hands. Most of our examples are to be found in or not far from the city center.

Imagine a city over 1500 years old… which, according to history, has been more or less completely destroyed an average of about twice a century during

its existence. Hard to fathom? Welcome to Georgia’s “new” capital, Tbilisi. (The old one, nearby Mtskheta, oversaw the introduction of Orthodox Christianity

The Funicular Restaurant, having been built in 1905 but also experiencing a long shutdown, is now fully restored as of 2014. Seating 440 for high-class Georgian and European cuisine and more in several distinct facilities and offering a ballroom too, it perches at the top of the funicular railway which takes you to it (a road does too) on Mtatsminda, the Holy

Mountain, overlooking Tbilisi. Locationally, architecturally and gastronomically it is a delight as well as a physical highlight. There was even a secret tunnel entrance to it for the use of Soviet dignitaries! Synonymous with the 1500th anniversary celebration of Tbilisi as the capital, Kartlis Deda, or the Mother of Georgia, is a statue built in 1958 on the top of Sololaki Hill, overlooking the Old City. She was designed by Elguja Amashukeli but has had a makeover since the original construction, replacing her metal outer layer with a new, more realistic one, She holds a bowl of wine in one hand, for guests, and a sword in the other, for enemies. However, the joke is that she is telling guests to “Drink this or I’ll cut your throat!”—only partly an exaggeration, for those who have experienced some of the forceful gastronomic urging of local hospitality… It looks like, and is nicknamed, the Lego Building; but our next stop is actually the former HQ of the Ministry of Transport and current HQ of the Bank of Georgia as of 2007. Its 18 stories are gradually being re-covered entirely by magnificent green creepers, to boot. A joint design of architects Giorgi Chakhava and Zurab Jalaghania, completed in 1975, this one is thus also a Soviet-era piece, and it is located at the end of Yuri Gagarin Street, overlooking the Mtkvari, Tbilisi’s main river. A recently added all-glass cube compliments its very right-angled structure and serves as the new entrance to it. The Peace Bridge dates from President Saakashvili’s two recent terms, and can be found contrasting with everything around itself over the Mtkvari River in the Old City near Metekhi church and bridge. Clearly a

product of early 21st century architecture involving computer-aided design and esthetics, its colored LED lights flash in different patterns at night; its designer is Michele De Lucchi. Magnificent on its own but badly out of place or not, butt of jokes regarding its shape or not, this structure is unlikely to leave the viewer neutral. The Rike Concert Hall and Exhibition Center is also expected to evoke a strong reaction in one of quite a number of directions. Another Saakashvili-era piece, designed by Massimiliano and Doriana Fuksas, it may be called by some “That pair of leftover bottles after the drinking party” or something similar. One can only hope that its acoustics are superb, as a way of giving meaningful purpose to its shape. Mikheil S. was certainly “on a roll”. Wherever you go in Tbilisi, and also in many other parts of the whole of Georgia, the recently added police buildings are almost all faced in glass. This was yet

another architectural statement by Saakashvili, meant specifically to say what it seemed to show: “We are transparent.” This was a sorely needed promise, given the previous terrifying corruption which had run rife in the police, who were replaced, re-uniformed, re-trained, re-salaried, re-equipped with nice shiny new cars, and threatened into the bargain: “Shape up or ship out.” However, one does not need to take the analogy too far to come up with the joke that all these transparent buildings could still have basements… and hope for the best. Tony Hanmer has lived in Georgia since 1999, in Svaneti since 2007, and been a weekly writer for GT since early 2011. He runs the “Svaneti Renaissance” Facebook group, now with nearly 2000 members, at www.facebook.com/groups/SvanetiRenaissance/ He and his wife also run their own guest house in Etseri: www.facebook.com/hanmer.house.svaneti

Just Voices By tony hanmer

by invitation, each time both to tour and to cut CDs. Recently, they also won a televised national village choir challenge, beating out about 400 competitors in the process. They are frequent travelers on the long road to Tbilisi and back too, much in demand for national-level cultural events. And we hear them regularly at home, providing a somber or joyous background to local funeral or wedding feasts.

For such a small country, Georgia boasts an impressive variety of regional differences in much of its geography and culture. The list includes cuisine, language and dialect, dress, geography, flora and fauna, microclimate… and song, both acapella and accompanied. One of the country’s most famous examples of song is, indeed, now hurtling through interstellar space outside the solar system at fantastic speeds, part of the Golden Record of sounds representing Earth on the Voyager spacecraft. This song is called Chakrulo.

Georgian polyphony, or multi-part singing, is generally accepted by musicologists to have begun well before the start of national Christianity in the 4th century AD, practiced by farmers in villages. One can get quite technical about scales, harmonies, history and so on. But actually to hear the singing is something else, which affects the soul itself quite profoundly. This writer lives in a village in upper Svaneti whose school’s music teacher is part of a small local men’s choir called Riho. This choir has been to France twice

The Russian Empire and especially Soviet decades had a profound effect on Georgian polyphony, as can be heard from the earliest extant recordings of it, from the late 19th to early 20th centuries or so, and comparing these to much later ones. Church music was largely taken off the repertoire in the atheist setting. And the new formation of much larger choirs than the usual trio, handful or small group of singers made the precious improvisation known to these little groups much rarer. At least the recordings still exist, as precious examples of the earlier traditions and highlights of pre-Soviet singing. Their recording quality is not fantastic, from a century and more ago, but the spirit still shines through. For a while now, Georgian polyphony has been at a crossroads. Choirs and new recordings have multiplied greatly; so have styles and innovations, following those of musical instruments and costumes and dance, not to mention the rest of Georgian culture, like cuisines and feast traditions. Some choirs, however, seek to return to the

simple purity of the much earlier groups, resisting change. It is even possible for foreigners living in Georgia, especially Tbilisi, to try to join in with the singing, for example with Okros Stumrebi (Golden Guests), a choir made up entirely of non-Georgians, which was begun in 2001 by Karl Linich. If the language itself is challenging enough, try adding Georgian melodies and harmonies to it! We can only try, indeed. There may be much in Georgian culture which we outsiders can experience only as guests. It might touch us deeply, but perhaps rarely as deeply as it will affect those who understand it straight from the inside, every flavor and nuance and note and play on words. But these barriers should not dissuade the foreigner here from experiencing all the richness available. We are revered as guests, the saying being that as such we are God-sent; we should

make every effort to comprehend how profound is the depth of the little nation which hosts, welcomes, and often overwhelms us with its generosity. Its sounds,

aromas, textures and flavors have much to tell, starting from millennia ago. Whether you are at a small informal supra (feast) or a much larger formal one, in a restaurant or a home, or at a concert held on a stage in a large auditorium, the singing may break out by design or on the spur of the moment, by any number of performers from two to a hundred. Let it wash over you and you will emerge changed. Tony Hanmer has lived in Georgia since 1999, in Svaneti since 2007, and been a weekly writer for GT since early 2011. He runs the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Svaneti Renaissanceâ&#x20AC;? Facebook group, now with nearly 2000 members, at www.facebook.com/groups/SvanetiRenaissance/ He and his wife also run their own guest house in Etseri: www.facebook.com/ hanmer.house.svaneti

Germans in Georgia By lisa maier

In 2017, the Georgian-German year was celebrated to recognize 200 years of German settlers in Georgia and the deep connection between the two countries. In 1817, the first German settlers arrived in Georgia and shortly after started to build their own colonies near Tbilisi. The villages of Asureti and Bolnisi were the main areas where the settlers lived and even today these two appear like a Swabian town in the middle of the Georgian landscape. You can also still find the influences of the German community in art and architecture, especially in the capital, Tbilisi. Here are some of the top German names in Georgian art and architecture.

GERmAN ARtIStS IN GEORGIA Oskar Schmerling (1863 – 1938) Oskar Schmerling was born 1863 in Tbilisi. He displayed talent from an early age and drew for the humoristic newspaper ‘Kogho’. At the end of the 19th century there was no official or well-known art-school in Georgia, so he went to the St. Petersburg Academy of Arts. In this period, he had caricatures published in several Russian newspapers

and graduated the academy with a silver medal. In 1902, Schmerling founded a school for painting, sculpture and architecture at the Society for Encouraging the Caucasian Decorative Arts. Several prominent Georgian artists, including Lado Gudiashvili, studied under his tutorage there. His school constituted the basis for today’s Tbilisi State Academy of Arts. He kept working as cartoonist and artist; his most famous illustration is the ‘The Caucasians on Horseback’.

Alexander Salzmann (1874 – 1934) The son of the famous architect Albert Salzmann, just like his father, Alexander chose a profession in the artistic field. He studied in Moscow and later in Munich, where he took part in exhibitions of the famous artist group `Phalanx´, founded by Wassily Kandinsky. In 1916, he moved back to Tbilisi with his family, where he worked for years as a stage designer in the Tbilisi Opera. In 1918, he

designed the main drop curtain of the opera house. Later, he was appointed to the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées in Paris.

GERmAN ARchItEctS IN GEORGIA Tbilisi needed to be rebuilt quite often (it has been raised to the ground some 15 times since its creation in the 5th century). There were different growth stages before it reached its current size. In the 19th century the city saw a growth spurt under the influence of numerous German

his exact date of birth and death. He started out as an assistant to Victor Schröter and slowly made his own name in the community of architects. The old city

architects. Here are some of the most famous of the 19th century generation of architects in Tbilisi:

Albert Salzmann (1833 – 1897)

two churches in one, on the main floor is the Georgian Orthodox and in the basement a Russian Orthodox church.

Albert Salzmann was the son of a wealthy German colonist. He studied in St. Petersburg but returned in 1861 and immediately started work in Tbilisi. He planned and designed the National Gallery and several other public and residential buildings. He was praised for his work and was a member of the all-important art commissions in the city. He died the so-called ‘architect’s-death’ by falling from a scaffold.

Leopold Bielfeld (1838 – 1922) Leopold Bielefeld, after finishing his studies in St. Petersburg, managed to become one of the most famous architects of his time. He planned multiple buildings by order of German settlers, among them the ‘Hotel Wetzel’ on Aghmashenebeli Avenue. He is best-known for the design of two churches: the German Church and the Kashveti Church on Rustaveli Avenue. It includes

Viktor Schröter (1839 – 1901) The university in St. Petersburg, as it was for a lot of architects in Georgia at that time, was the start of his career. His specialty was theaters and operas; the opera houses in Kiev and Irkutsk were built based on his drafts. In 1901, he designed the Opera House in Tbilisi, though it has been remodeled multiple times since.

hall on Liberty (Freedom) Square was his most famous design, followed by the Art Palace at 6 Kargareteli Street.

Otto Simonson (1826 – 1914) Simonson was born in Dresden, where he was a student of the famous architect Gottfried Semper, who designed the Semper Opera in Dresden. Tracing back Simonson will lead you to the most central places in Tbilisi: he designed today’s Youth Palace on Rustaveli Avenue as well as the 9th of April Park.

Paul Stern He is probably the best-known German architect in Georgia, yet there is little information about his private life, not even

A Guide to Tbilisi’s Nightlife By Amy Jones

Nightlife in Tbilisi has become the beat of change and the voice of a new generation in the city. Since police raided Cafe Gallery and Bassiani in May 2018, Tbilisi’s clubs have become world famous not for their sound, but also their spirit. For a conservative nation, Georgia has developed a very strong clubbing culture. Tbilisi’s clubs allow the city’s youth to express themselves in safe spaces where anything goes. The city’s dance floors are a long way from conservative values and restriction: they are a place where people can be free.

BASSIANI

Door policy: The door policy is generally relaxed. As with all clubs, it helps to be nice, go in small gender-balanced groups and look hip. Find it: 2 A. Tsereteli Ave. (underneath the national stadium)

cAfE GAllERy

Hidden in the former depths of a Soviet swimming pool, Bassiani is one of the best clubs not only in Tbilisi, but in the world, according to DJ mag. Dark corridors and iron staircases lead the way to the main floor. Overlooking the swimming pool from the balcony, a sea of thousands of dancers pulsates to the sound of the beat. The music quality is impressive. The beat rises above the crowd high into the depths of the building’s roof. It’s easy to forget that you are in Georgia when you enter Bassiani. It has become an important cultural institution in its own right.

organize small parties with friends. And, within a few years, Cafe Gallery was born. Located on Rustaveli Avenue, Cafe Gallery hosts international and local DJs mostly playing deep house. When you’re done with dancing, you can hang out with locals and internationals in the living room-turned smokers’ room. The crowd and music varies depending on the night. Locals prefer to visit on Thursdays. In the daytime, Cafe Gallery transforms into a cafe. Door policy: Cafe Gallery’s has a relaxed door policy. Few people are rejected. Find it: 34 A. Griboedov Str.

khIDI

Sandro, Cafe Gallery’s owner, originally opened a gallery space where he would

Industrial techno vibrates through your whole body as you enter the packed dance floor of one of Tbilisi’s heaviest techno clubs. Located inside the foot of a bridge over the Mtkvari river, Khidi is on the map for those who love the electronic underground.

The club welcomes both international and local DJs who blast their beats through an impressive Function One sound system. Daniel Avery, Matrixxman, Broken English Club, Sebastian Mullaert, and many other DJs all graced their decks in 2017. Khidi has two rooms, both equally industrial and dark, with a total capacity of 1,200. Door policy: The club tries to protect itself from guests whom the door staff feel may intimidate regulars. As long as you are polite, you shouldn’t have a problem. Find it: President Heydar Aliyev Embankment

DRAmA BAR

mtkvARzE

Mtkvarze is a small club with a big heart. It is more upbeat and less industrial than Khidi and Bassiani. Here, a packed-out dancefloor dances to anything from tech house to disco, and house to funk.

Parampa does not get the attention it deserves on the Tbilisi nightlife scene. Located in Vake Park, this place is the friendliest club in Tbilisi. Heading to Parampa on a Friday evening is like going to a family reunion. Everyone knows everyone and everyone loves to dance. The music is less techno and more deep house. One thing is certain – it’s always good. Parampa doesn’t stay open as long as other bigger clubs: it usually shuts by 5 AM. Door policy: just be nice. Find it: Vake Park

hOROOm

The balcony overlooking the river is a great place to meet locals. Mtkvarze has two rooms: hidden down a narrow corridor, the second, smaller room is often compared to Sisyphos or Kater Blau in Berlin. You will find few tourists here as it’s a favorite among people living in Tbilisi.

Drama Bar is a popular venue to drink and dance before heading to one of Tbilisi’s bigger clubs when it shuts around 3 AM. However, if you want an early dance, this apartment turned club is a great venue. Drama is popular with some of Tbilisi’s hippest youngsters. Door policy: Drama Bar’s door policy is unpredictable and strict. A bouncer will ask you to look into a camera before saying yes or no. Behaving naturally, going in a small group, and having an unusual look can help you get in. Find it: 37 Sh. Rustaveli Ave.

Door policy: The door policy is relatively relaxed, just be nice on the door. Find it: Nikoloz Baratashvili Left Bank

PARAmPA

On Fridays, Horoom forms part of Bassiani. On Saturdays, Horoom is a club in its own right when Bassiani is shut. Horoom DJs play mostly deep house. It’s a far smaller venue than Bassiani and can sometimes get too full. Nonetheless, the vibe is normally great here. There is also a large space behind the bar popular for smoking and relaxing. Horoom’s monthly LGBTQ Horoom Nights has cemented Horoom on the Tbilisi nightlife map for its liberal values and freedom of expression. Door policy: Similar to Bassiani Find it: 2 A. Tsereteli Ave. (underneath the national stadium)

13th Black Sea Jazz Festival to Kick Off in Batumi Resort on July 18 By lika chigladze

The summer season in Georgia is rich in cultural and entertaining events taking place across the country. The Black Sea Jazz Festival, annually organized by Eastern Promotions and TBC Status, is one of the pioneer outdoor events, taking place in Batumi Seaside Resort and bringing together the world’s most acclaimed artists from different genres. The Black Sea Jazz Festival has become one of the leading events in Georgia, significant for both the economic and tourism development of the country. This year, Batumi is to host the 13th Jazz Festival from July 18 - 20. The concerts will take place in the Batumi Tennis Club. The lineup is as follows: July 18 - CORY HENRY & The Funk Apostles (USA), July 19 – MOKUMOKU (Geo) and (AMP FIDDLER ft.: special guest Drummer From Detroit (USA), July 20 (INCOGNITO (UK)). The official resident of the festival is DJ Davita Machaidze, known by the stage name DJ. MACHAIDZE. At different times, the Black Sea Festival has hosted such big names as HUGH MASEKELA, SERGIO MENDES , TANIA MARIA QUARTET, LISA STANSFIELD, SNOOP DOGG, AL JARREAU, MACY GRAY, JAMIROQUAI, Ms. LAURYN HILL, ROBERT PLANT and even THE PRODIGY: historic days for the festival.

Giorgi Kereselidze, Director of Eastern Promotions and organizer of the Festival, talked to WHERE.GE about this year’s program and performers: “As always, this year we aim to offer the audience an interesting and varied program. Over the years, the Black Sea Jazz Festival has become ever more diverse. We always try to include “happy” music in our program, since this is what holidaymakers need and expect when they come to the seaside. We do our best to meet their needs and provide quality positive music to guarantee them a good time. While Tbilisi Jazz Festival is more conservative and is where jazz enthusiasts can enjoy relatively serious jazz music, the Batumi Black Sea Jazz Festival is more fun, incorporating various genres like rock, funk, electronic music, soul and hip hop. The concerts last longer, and after performances guests can stay and dance until late,” he told us, adding that currently their aim is to stick to this format and expand it even more.

“This year’s program is energetic, diverse and fun. We were eager to invite Corny Henry to perform in Georgia. He has become one of the top-most acclaimed musicians in demand, so has a very busy schedule. Luckily, he was free on July 18, so we planned the entire program around this date. He will open the festival with his group The Funk Apostles. The next day we have two more amazing performances. On July 19, we present a very interesting Georgian musical group MokuMoku, that is made up of young gifted musicians. I think through a good marketing strategy they can go beyond the borders and perform at international festivals in different countries. Although it’s difficult to enter and establish oneself on the international stage, their music is so good and different that I think it is achievable. The second performer that day is an American musician AMP FIDDLER, who is notable for his innovative approaches to music. He has very distinctive projects, I have attended two of them and was impressed. He feels the audience and knows how to direct his music. The Georgian audience is so energetic and expressive that the artist will feel it and we hope that evening will be unforgettable. On July 20, the festival closes with legendary British group Incognito on its jubilee tour, and we are happy to have put Georgia on that list. Every evening, the concerts will be followed by DJ sets which sometimes go on till sunrise. Jam sessions are no novelty

at the festival, as well as the participation of many interesting local musicians,” the festival organizer said.

number of celebrated artists including Pri Fiddler, George Clinton, Moodymann, Stephanie McKay, Jamiroquai, and Prince.

Black Sea Jazz Festival 2019 Program:

Within the frames of the Black Sea Jazz Festival, the artist will present his new project AMP FIDDLER ft. Drummer From Detroit. He will perform together with his old friend Andrés known as ‘Drummer From Detroit’. Since the 1990s, he has been creating funk music, incorporating hip hop and other music genres.

cORy hENRy & thE fUNk APOStlES (USA)

INcOGNItO Cory Henry is an American jazz pianist, gospel musician, music producer and Grammy Award holder who started his music career in 2006 by touring with various mainstream and gospel artists such as (Snarky Puppy, Michael McDonald, P. Diddy, Boyz II Men, Kenny Garrett, The Roots, Israel Houghton, Donnie McClurkin, Kirk Franklin, and Yolanda Adams). Over the course of his career, Henry has released three albums, Gotcha Now Doc (2012), First Steps (2014), and The Revival (2016), that very soon charted on the Billboard charts. His songs have charted on the Top Gospel Albums and Top Jazz Albums.

AmP fIDDlER ft. DRUmmER fROm DEtROIt (USA) Joseph Anthony “Amp” Fiddler is an American singer, songwriter, keyboardist, and record producer from Detroit, Michigan. His musical styles include funk, soul, dance and electronica music. Since the 80s, Amp is considered one of the leading funk performers. He has collaborated with a

elements of hip hop, jazz and funk. To date, the band has released three albums: Blues Build The Temple (2015), Black Heaven (2017), Chicago Marinade (2019) and several singles including ‘Sugar Glider’, ‘Hako is Alive and She Is 59’ and ‘Filip’. MokuMoku has taken part in such international festivals as MadCool Festival 2018 and Bristol Upfest (2017). Currently, the band is working on their fourth studio album named ‘Feast’.

DJ. mAchAIDzE

Incognito is a British acid jazz band. Their debut album, Jazz Funk, was released in 1981. Since then, for over 40 years the band members have released more than 15 albums. The band members have changed time to time, yet Jean-Paul ‘Bluey’ Maunick, the band’s leader, singer, guitarist, composer, and record producer, has remained. The band has featured Linda Muriel, Jocelyn Brown, Maysa Leak, Tony Momrelle, Imaani, Vanessa Haynes, Mo Brandis, Natalie Williams, Carleen Anderson, Pamela (PY) Anderson, Kelli Sae, and Joy Malcolm.

mOkUmOkU The group was established in Tbilisi, Georgia, in 2014. Their music embraces

Georgian pioneer DJ MACHAIDZE is well known to the audience. His music incorporates Funky House, Disco House, Jazz House and Soulful House sounds. Tickets for the13th Black Sea Jazz Festival are available online at TKT.GE. The festival is supported by the Ministry of Education, Culture and Sports of Ajara and is carried out within the frames of the Check in Georgia State Program.

News NEW PROtEctED AREA cREAtED IN GEORGIA By Ana Dumbadze

A new Protected Area - Pontus Oak Reserve - has been created in Georgia. The reserve is located in the Chokhatauri Municipality, Guria region, and is spread across an area of 443 hectares. This is the only place in the country where Pontus Oak trees still grow over a relatively large area. The aim of creating the new reserve is to protect and preserve the unique tree, which is included in the Red Book of Georgia, and save the forest and its ecosystem. The authors of the draft law were the Ministry of Environment Protection and Agriculture of Georgia, Agency of Protected Areas and WWF Caucasus Program Office.

OvER 100,000 vISItORS tO GEORGIAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S PROtEctED AREAS SO fAR thIS yEAR By lucy Papachristou Some 113,251 people visited Georgiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Protected Areas between January and April of this year, a 13% increase from the same period last year, the Agency of Protected Areas announced. The majority (54%) of visitors were Georgians. The most popular destinations were Tbilisi National Park, Kazbegi National Park and Prometheus Cave, near Kutaisi. Most of the foreign visitors were from Germany, Poland, Israel, India and Russia. A total of 8.7 million tourists visited Georgia in 2018, a nearly 10% increase from the previous year.

GEORGIAN fIlmS tO BE ScREENED IN ShANGhAI By ketevan kvaratskheliya

The works of the Georgian cinematography are going beyond the limits of their homeland and preparing to travel to China for the Shanghai International Film Festival (SIFF), June 15-25. This year, the 22nd edition of the Festival brings together 500 films from all over the world. The work of Georgian, German-based Director Dito Tsintsadze, called ‘Inhale-Exhale’ is also on the list of features scheduled to be screened within the scope of the event. The film is a Georgian, Russian and Swedish co-production, telling the story of a young woman who returns home after serving a long sentence in prison, and tries to re-earn people’s trust and establish herself in society. The work will be shown on June 22. The SIFF will also introduce the film of yet another Georgian filmmaker, Tinatin Kajrishvili, named ‘Horizon’, which represents a young couple’s following separation. The Shanghai International Film Festival was officially launched in 1993, and since then, “SIFF has been building a professional and authoritative cultural exchange platform for foreign and domestic films, expanding its influence through the four major activities including the award, market, forum and film panorama”, reads the preview of the festival.

QvEvRI SOUND SyStEm Vladimer Chikviladze has made musical Qvevri a reality from an idea born several years ago in a friend’s wine cellar. Chikviladze worked to sophisticate the concept before launching the ‘Qvevri Sound System,’ a synthesis of the traditional wine vessel and modern technologies, based on the founder’s international experience in the field of audio systems. The Qvevri Sound System is created with the use of natural materials, hard work and love. Chikviladze is sure that the Qvevri Sound System will establish itself in Georgia, as well as abroad.

Events Calendar thEAtER tBIlISI OPERA AND BAllEt thEAtER 25 Rustaveli Ave. June 25, 26 K-ARTS DANCE COMPANY Fragments from classical and contemporary ballets: Hallyangmu, Between, La Sylphide, Pearl, The White Road, Bow, Tchaikovsky Pas de deux, Whispering and calling, Sabre Dance, Gak-si, Diana and Actaeon, Sogo Chum, (Hand drum dance) MOB Artistic Director- Misook Jeon Artistic Director of the Tbilisi Ballet Festival: Nina Ananiashvili Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 10-100 GEL June 27 GISELLE Ballet in two acts

Choreography by Jean Coralli, Jules Perrot and Marius Petipa Choreographic version by Alexey Fadeechev Principal dancers of the Joffrey Ballet (Chicago, USA): Giselle– Victoria Jaiani, Prince Albrecht– Temur Suluashvili Conductor: Alevtina Ioffe (Russia) Artistic Director of the Tbilisi Ballet Festival: Nina Ananiashvili Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 10-100 GEL June 28 SWAN LAKE

Pyotr Tchaikovsky’s two-act ballet Choreographic version and staging by Alexey Fadeechev Odette/Odile- Nino Samadashvili Prince Siegfried- Ruslan Skvortsov (Principal dancer of the Bolshoi Ballet) Conductor: Alevtina Ioffe (Russia) Artistic Director of the Tbilisi Ballet Festival: Nina Ananiashvili Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 10-100 GEL June 30 BALLET GALA

Cast: Victoria Jaiani, Temur Suluashvili (Joffrey Ballet, Chicago, USA), Francesco Piccinin (Estonian National Ballet), Martina Arduino, Marco Agostino (La Scala Theater, Milan, Italy), Ruslan Skvortsov, Anastasiia Goriacheva, Ana Turazashvili (The Bolshoi Theater, Moscow, Russia), and the Ballet Company and Orchestra of the Tbilisi Opera and Ballet State Theater Conductor: Alevtina Ioffe (Russia), Artistic Director of the Tbilisi Ballet Festival: Nina Ananiashvili Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 10-100 GEL July 6 Season Closing Zakaria Paliashvili’s opera ABESALOM AND ETERI Conductor- Zaza Azmaiparashvili, Director - Gizo Jordania, Set, Costume and Lighting DesignerGeorge Alexi-Meskhishvili, Choreographer- Iliko Sukhishvili. Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 10-200 GEL

The biggest concert hall of the country

Buy Tickets online www.tkt.ge www.eventer.ge www.biletebi.ge

BLACK EYED PEAS

16.06.2019

Hip-hop group the Black Eyed Peas expanded beyond their conscious rap roots to become one of the most commercially successful pop groups of all time. After an eight-year hiatus, the group reverted to its original lineup and Hip-Hop sound once again for 2018's Masters of the Sun Vol. 1.

JESSIE J

06.08.2019

English singer/songwriter Jessie J combines deep, soulful vocals, a sharp pop sense, and a down-to-earth manner. Overcoming various career setbacks and health issues, she issued a trio of U.K. Top Five albums -Who You Are, Alive, and Sweet Talker -- in the early 2010s, while also recording chart-topping singles "Price Tag," "Domino," "Bang Bang.

30 SECONDS TO MARS

13.08.2019

THIRTY SECONDS TO MARS – comprising Jared Leto and Shannon Leto – have sold over five million albums worldwide and the band’s videos have more than 300 million views on YouTube. The group has received numerous awards, including a dozen MTV awards worldwide, a Billboard Music award and honors from NME, Kerrang! and Fuse.

GABRIADzE thEAtER 14 Shavteli Str. June 26, 27 RAMONA Revaz Gabriadze Directed by Revaz Gabriadze English Subtitles Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 20, 30 GEL

June 28, 29 THE AUTUMN OF MY SPRINGTIME Revaz Gabriadze Directed by Revaz Gabriadze English Subtitles Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 20, 30 GEL

mUSEUmS GEORGIAN NAtIONAl mUSEUm SImON JANAShIA mUSEUm

will have a chance to take a look at the following artworks: Giotto– “Ognissanti Madonna” and the “Scrovegni Chapel”, Leonardo da Vinci– “Annunciation”, Botticelli– “The Birth of Venus” and “Spring”, Raffaello– “The Madonna of the Goldfinch, Bellotto– “Piazza San Marco”, “Castello Sforzesco”, Canaletto– “The Chapel of Eton College”, Canova– “Amor e Psyche” and “The Graces”.

mUSEUm Of SOvIEt OccUPAtION 3 Sh. Rustaveli Ave.

3 Sh. Rustaveli Ave. Exhibitions: GEORGIAN COSTUME AND WEAPONRY OF THE 18TH-20TH CENTURIES NUMISMATIC TREASURY EXHIBITION STONE AGE GEORGIA ARCHEOLOGICAL TREASURE NEW LIFE TO THE ORIENTAL COLLECTIONS

June 30 STALINGARD Revaz Gabriadze Directed by Revaz Gabriadze English Subtitles Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 20, 30 GEL June 25 Animated documentary film REZO Directed by Leo Gabriadze Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 15 GEL

Until September 10 Under the joint initiative of Georgian National Museum and Georgian Post, The exhibition STORY TOLD BY POSTAGE STAMPS Dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the first Georgian stamp. Until August 31 Multimedia technology exhibitionIMMAGICA. A JOURNEY INTO BEAUTY” An impressive journey through time which introduces us to Italian paintings between the XIV-XIX centuries, merging voice, lighting, immersive visual and multimedia; With the help of screen projection, visitors

Exhibition RED TERROR AND GEORGIAN ARTISTS The exhibition showcases artworks by Dimitri Shevardnadze, Petre Otskheli, Henryk Hryniewski, Richard Sommer, Kiril Zdanevich, Vasily Shukhaev, Elene Akhvlediani, Lado Gudiashvili, David Kakabadze, Ucha Japharidze, Aleksandre Bajbeuk-Melikov, Korneli Sanadze and more.

mUSEUm Of IllUSIONS 10 Betlemi Str. Discover the Museum of Illusions Be brave enough to jump into an illusion created by the Vortex, deform the image

UPX

a place where you can get a full taste of Georgia! UPX is a complex on the Tbilisi Sea, where tourists are introduced to Georgia through song and cuisine.

Relax in or by the pool Enjoy UPX forest park with hammocks and ice-cream tunnel Taste Georgian cuisine & listen to Georgian music Attend Georgian handmade productsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; exhibition-sale And ride a horse!

All in one - UPX - A perfect summer getaway! Address: Beshenova Str. #9 Tbilisi Sea +995 571 70 30 30

F: @UPX.UPX

of yourself in a Mirror Room, be free in the Infinity room, resist the laws of gravity and size ratio, and take selfies in every possible pose. Enjoy the collection of holograms, and discover optical illusions. Tickets: 17.5 GEL, for children (ages 6-18): 11 GEL, children (under 5): free, students: 13 GEL, family (2 adults + 2 children): 39 GEL.

mUSEUm Of BROkEN RElAtIONShIPS 10 Betlemi Str.

Until July 4 SOLO EXHIBITION ZERO BY GEORGIAN ARTIST VAKHO BUGADZE

mUSIc EzO fEStIvAl Mtatsminda Park July 13 EZO FESTIVAL 2019 SEASON CLOSING Start time: 18:00 Ticket: 50 GEL

SPORtS PAlAcE

THE MUSEUM OF BROKEN RELATIONSHIPS The unique collection of the museum aims to provoke feelings of understanding among individuals and serve as some kind of therapy for those who have experience break-ups.

GAllERy thE NAtIONAl GAllERy 11 Sh. Rustaveli Ave. Until February 26 (2020) GRAND MASTERS FROM THE GEORGIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM COLLECTION XIX – XX CENTURY

July 9 20:00-21:30- Folklore Concert: Guria, Qvemo Qartli 22:00- Final Concert: REGGAEON Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 20 GEL

1 26th May Sq. June 28 SOPHO BATILASHVILI SOLO CONCERT “Bravo Records” presents Sopo Batilashvili’s debut album, where she will perform new versions of already famous songs with Zviad Bolkvadze, Band “Newton” and specially invited musicians. Start time: 18:00 Ticket: From 20 GEL

ARt GENE fEStIvAl Tbilisi Museum of Ethnography July 4-17

July 7 20:00-21:30- Folklore Concert: Acoustics 22:00- Final Concert: Dato Evgenidze Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 29 GEL July 8 20:00-21:30- Folklore Concert: Samtskhe-Javakheti 22:00- Final Concert: ASEA SOOL Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 20 GEL

July 10 20:00-21:30 Folklore Concert: Kakheti, Tusheti, Svaneti 22:00 Final Concert: CHVENEBUREBI AND LELA NAKEURI Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 20 GEL July 11 20:00-21:30- Folklore Concert: Imereti 22:00- Final Concert: FRANI Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 20 GEL July 12 20:00-21:30 Folklore Concert: Samegrelo 22:00 Final Concert: NINO KATAMADZE Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 29 GEL

July 13 20:00-21:30- Folklore Concert: Racha-Lechkhumi 22:00- Final Concert: 33A Start time: 20:00 July 14 20:00-21:30- Folklore Concert: Adjara 22:00- Final Concert: SUKHISHVILEBI Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 29 GEL

SOUNDS Of GEORGIA SING AND DRINK Mini concerts in the cozy atmosphere of Old Tbilisi, a mix of traditional Georgian music of different genres: folklore, a capella, guitar, and Georgian pop and city songs every Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday Start time: 17:00 Ticket: 24 GEL Venue: June 21, 28, July 5, 12, 19, 2610 Erekle II Sq., Tekla Palace Hotel, June 22, 29, July 6, 13, 20, 27New Tiflis, 9 Agmashenebeli Ave., Wine bar ‘Wine Station’ June 26, July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31Corner of 2 Turgenev Str., and 37 Javakhishvili Str., deep yard, June 27, July 4, 11, 18, 25Europe Square, 2 D. Megreli Str., Hotel “Nata”

BlAck SEA JAzz fEStIvAl Batumi Tennis Club July 18 CORY HENRY & The Funk Apostles (USA) Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 100-200 GEL

June 28, 29, 30 June 28

BAtUmI SUmmER thEAtER Batumi Boulevard June 23 BASTI BUBU, LETS SING TOGETHER With Babilina, Basti and Bubu, Sopho Khalvashi, School of Fairies, BBB Academy, Basti Bubu Studio Start time: 16:00, 19:00 Ticket: 10-15 GEL

INtOURISt cANUDOS lOUNGE 11 Ninoshvili Str. June 25 SAKHE Start time: 21:00 Ticket: 50 GEL

UP2yOU

mOUNtAIN SEt Spacehall Kustba 3-day pass: 40-80 GEL 1-day pass: 30-60 GEL

July 20 INCOGNITO Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 100-200 GEL

Seafront Promenade July 19 MOKUMOKU Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 100-200 GEL

July 31 SALIO Start time: 22:00 Ticket: 50 GEL

Listing: Georgian Travel Agencies tRIPPlANNER.GE TEL 591 7 12345 info@tripplanner.ge www.facebook.com/tripplannergeorgia/

Tripplanner.ge is a new C-90; M-35; Y-95; K-25; page for those who are fond of travelling. It will help C-15; M-35; Y-100; K-20; tourists to independently discover interesting information about Georgia, tours, sights and seasonal offers, all on one page. Get package tours, transfer services and plan your trip, all of which can be purchased online. Innovative page “trip planner” is a system that does a complete calculation to give customers a full range of information about routes, kilometers, sights, prices, and the contact details of tourist groups, guides and other additional services on offer.

tRAvEl cO 9 K. Apkhazi Str., 128 Aghmashenebeli Ave. TEL 557 59 14 08 (whatsapp, viber), 593 40 06 01 (whatsapp, viber) www.travelco.ge info@travelco.ge reservation@travelco.ge FB – TravelCoGeorgia Instagram - travelcogeorgia

vOyAGE tOURS GEORGIA 8 G. Kartozia Str. TEL 229 95 55 Fax: +995 32 2299444 Web: http://voyagetours.ge Email: Tbs@voyagetours.net

villages to the local people of Ushguli, Tusheti and Kakheti (wine region) to modern and luxury venues and resorts, their diversified products allow you to immerse yourself in rich and alluring ways of life. Professional multilingual guides will take care of the logistics, high qualified service and be on hand to add a unique ‘Explore twist’ to your trip while ensuring that your pleasure and responsible tourism remains at the very core of each adventure.

tRAvEl cOmPANy ‘yOUR GROUP’ Voyage Tours Georgia offers all type of travel services throughout Georgia, selected and tailored by experts to create perfect holidays: adventures, leisure trips and events. From group walking and trekking tours in the Caucasus Mountains to cycling trips and wine yard voyages in the most authentic areas of our ancient country. The agency also offers family adventure holidays, trips for solo travelers and much more. Passion and experience are at the heart of their ethos and they pride themselves on expertise as one of the most professional and trusted travel companies in Georgia. They create exciting itineraries that will take you off the beaten track to fully experience the culture of each unique region of the country. From the remote

34 I. Chavchavadze Ave. TEL 577 03 05 44, 243 143 incoming@yourgroup.ge

lIvING ROOtS tRAvEl TEL 599480086 tamara@travellivingroots.com www.travellivingroots.com

Culinary and wine tours. Living Roots Ranch offers horseback rides from 1 hour to multi-day treks.

GEORGIA hOlIDAy 12b A. Kazbegi Ave. TEL 200 04 45 www.georgiaholiday.com info@georgiaholiday.com

RUStAR ONlINE 7 Ts. Dadiani str. TEL 593 09 78 78 gm@rustaronline.ge www.rustartourism.com

tURI.GE 42 I. Abashidze Str. TEL 242 50 05 www.turi.ge info@turi.ge

AGASSI tRAvEl 7 Dadiani Str. TEL 577 04 48 80 www.agassitravel.com

vISIt GEORGIA 4a Ingorokva Str. TEL 292 22 46

www.visitgeorgia.ge vg@visitgeorgia.ge

INtERcO tRAvEl 14 I. Abashidze Str. TEL 229 43 43 www.interco.travel info@interco.travel

cAUcASUS tRAvEl 22 Peritsvaleba Str. TEL 298 74 00 www.caucasustravel.com Georgia@caucasustravel.com

NEWkAz 5 Janashia Str., Old Tbilisi TEL 230 96 20 www.newkaz.ge info@newkaz.ge

OmNES tOUR 4 Abesadze Str. TEL 293 34 00 www.omnestour.ge info@omnestour.ge

tRAWEllIN 4 I. Nikoladze Str. TEL 229 20 90 www.trawellin.ge inbox@trawellin.ge

lOcAlhOSt GEORGIA 116 Tsereteli Ave. TEL 215 87 77 www.localhost.com.ge david@localhost.com.ge

Presentation and the first event of the event company Origami was held at Silk Factory Studio on May 3. Artbat and Marc Romboy were among the major headliners there who brought together over 2,000 listeners. Georgian performers Gio Shengelia and 9EYE also took to the stage at the event. The Origami Company is actively cooperating with the livestream platform “Cercle”. The joint event Polo & Pan (live) is scheduled for July 20 at Electro Carriage Building Factory. Origami is also engaged in the charity auction #ჩვენვაშენებთთეატრს (#WeBuildTheater), which aims to support the Movement Theater and collect resources for the construction of the new building for the theater. The event company Origami was launched in 2019 and plans to offer diverse events and master classes in future.

Listing: Casinos PRINcESS cASINO BAtUmI 33 M. Abashidze Str., Batumi TEL 422 22 60 20 http://princessbatumi.com

and raffles featuring cash or prestigious prize winnings. There is a parking lot in front of the casino. Princess Casino Batumi is open 24 hours, 7 days a week.

EUROPE-BEt 12 Melikishvili Ave. TEL 247 14 71

AmBASSADORI 17 Shavteli Str., 0105, Tbilisi, Georgia TEL 211 21 21 info@ambasadori.casino

Princess Casino Batumi is the ideal place for quality recreation and hospitality in a luxurious and cosmopolitan environment of an International Princess Casino Chain working in the best traditions of the European gaming business which include a high level of service. The casino is located in one of the biggest modern and most touristic cities in Georgia, taking up part of the first floor of Wyndham Batumi Hotel in the heart of the city: when the lights of downtown switch on, the spirit of entertainment comes alive… Enjoy world-popular gambling games such as American Roulette, Blackjack and Poker as well as high technology slot machines. Princess Casino offers an innovative program for slot machine players, ‘Players Club,’ giving you the chance to earn points towards gifts and unique benefits. Princess Casino regularly offers an entertainment program, shows and an open buffet for players. With a dedicated team of PR and entertainment professionals, the Princess Casino Batumi offers a variety of draws

GRAND 48 Vaja-Pshavela Ave. TEL 239 96 52 Casino Ambassador is an elite gambling club based on the idea of a premium-class casino. It includes a unique approach to each customer and high-class service. The refined design, comfortable environment and perfect service that will be found in the Ambassador is a continuation of the hotel “Ambassador Tbilisi” concept. The Casino offers guests an unlimited amount of entertainment and relaxation 24/7 for both men and women. When high bets are drawn, when the concentration is at its peak; when comfort means more than just luxury, club “Ambassador” will open its VIP-apartments for youthree apartments of different color, exclusive furniture, relaxation zones, bathrooms and, of course, a professional table. Prize money for weekly chess tournament is 64,000 GEL Prize money for the weekly Saturday raffle is 120,000 GEL

ADJARABEt Old Tbilisi, Merab Kostava, near subway «Technical University» TEL 271 10 10, 236 43 60

ShANGRI lA cASINO tBIlISI River Mtkvari Right Embankment, Near the Bridge of Peace TEL 220 07 01

cASINO IvERIA

Republic (Rose Revolution) Sq. TEL 240 22 45

1 Ninoshvili Str., Batumi TEL +995 4222 25 362, +995 4222 25 363

cASINO JEWEl 29 Shota Rustaveli Ave. TEL 260 00 00

gaming industry in Georgia. Offering 35 gaming tables, including all the traditional and modern casino games, it also boasts 295 slot machines and 80 electronic Roulette stations. With an average crowd of around 2,000 guests a night, many coming from the surrounding states, the Casino Adjara gambling halls create a unique gaming atmosphere that cannot be felt in many other Casinos in Europe.

cASINO INtERNAtIONAl 40 Rustaveli Str., Batumi TEL +995 422 23 00 23

WElmOND cASINO 2/4 Shavsheti Str., Batumi TEL +995 422 242 020

To grasp the full feel and essence of Casino Jewel, you will be greeted by its dedicated hostesses, who will show you around and get you into the vibe of the place. First and foremost, Casino Jewel prides itself on personalized service, which means giving personal attention to everyone who enters to explore the Casino.

cASINO ADJARA 26 May Sq. TEL 233 55 19 Casino Adjara opened its doors in 1998 and became an immediate hit in the

EclIPSE cASINO 1 Lech and Maria Kaczynski Str., Batumi TEL 557 11 00 00

PEAcE cASINO 2/21 Vazha Pshavela/Ninoshvili Str., Hotel Sheraton, Batumi TEL +995 557 77 00 00

to stay

Tips for Your Hotel Search in Georgia . . . e c i o My Ch

Ana Muradashvili General Manager of Holiday Inn Telavi Georgia - a flagship of vibrant life, a synthesis of age and modern grace, unique and ancient assemblies, and the deep-rooted history of an open and welcoming society. The magic word “Gamarjoba” is the key to each gate in Georgia. Thanks to this and the incredible hospitality and warmth of their hosts, visitors never forget time spent in Georgia. Stay at the hotels below and I promise you will fall in love with Georgia too.

hOlIDAy INN tElAvI A modern style hotel in the heart of the wine region, Holiday Inn Telavi stands next to the Palace of King Erekle II and within walking distance of many major sights in the town. With 85 elegantly styled rooms, the hotel makes a great base for exploring the region. The hotel has two flexible and well-equipped meeting rooms for up to 50 delegates. Relax with a coffee or tea in the open lobby or enjoy some traditional Georgian dishes at “Kakhetian Family” restaurant. On the top floor of the hotel, you can relax with a massage and sauna and spend time leisurely by the pool overlooking the Caucasus Mountains and Alazani Valley. Then enjoy international cuisine paired with famous Georgian wines and cocktails at the Iberico Tapas Bar & restaurant. This hotel is owned by LLC Hotel Telavi and Managed by T3 Hospitality Management under license of Intercontinental Hotels Group LLC.

to stay

BESt WEStERN kUtAISI Best Western Kutaisi - the Contemporary Smile of Kutaisi. Offering contemporary interiors and premium amenities, the 45 cozy rooms are a pleasure to experience both for leisure and business stays. Gastronomic delight is one of Best Western Kutaisi’s main objectives in its restaurant and cafe. The hotel’s meeting facilities can host up to 120 delegates with spacious breakout areas.

hOtEl SNO kAzBEGI Hotel Sno Kazbegi is situated in Stepantsminda. Featuring a garden, terrace indoor pool and a 24-hour front desk, you’re guaranteed to have a relaxing and rejuvenating stay. The 4-star hotel has air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi, each with a private bathroom, desk, flat-screen TV and seating area. Guests at the accommodation can enjoy a continental or buffet breakfast. And Gudauri is just 30 km away.

cROWNE PlAzA BORJOmI Crowne Plaza Borjomi is nestled between hills and by a small river in the heart of Borjomi, a picturesque Georgian spa and resort town well known for its artesian natural springs, warm climate, and forests. Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts – is an upscale hotel brand of InterContinental Hotels Group. It features 101 modern guest rooms of eight categories, two Restaurants, Lobby Bar and Wine Bar, Club Lounge, Kids Playroom, Yoga Room and the Gym – all nicely combined with the exclusive SPA & Wellness Center (2.400 m2) offering leisure facilities. All guests are entitled to free admission to Borjomi Central Park and Sulfur Pools – curative, warm baths in the middle of the woods. Mineral Water Springs are also accessible right in the hotel yard.

ShOtA RUStAvElI BOUtIQUE hOtEl Located in the heart of Tbilisi, Shota Rustaveli Boutique Hotel boasts a truly distinctive, unique style and concept. The modern, stylish and exquisite design gives this place a special touch of elegance and feeling of comfort and harmony. The hotel is just a few steps away from Rustaveli Avenue. Gourmands will also be very happy here - the hotel’s restaurant, Melograno, has one of the best menus in the city, meaning you will enjoy various culinary delights. The refined style, enchanting food and highly personalized, top-quality service will make your stay here unforgettable.

to stay

New Hotels in Georgia Georgia is certainly not short of a wide variety of accommodation to suit any taste and budget, and yet there are new additions by the year, following eager investment from the government and international brands. Check out the newbies to the Georgian tourism scene below.

BRIckS ROOm hOtEl

Located near Rustaveli Theater, Bricks Room Hotel offers rooms with garden views and free Wi-Fi. Some rooms boast a separate dining area, toaster and ice machine. It’s just steps away from one of the main nightlife spots- with a great selection of pubs and mini clubs. You’ll also find the opera and theaters, the Narikala Fortress 2.5 km away and the Tbilisi Central train station less than 10 minutes away by taxi. Also close by are a variety of eateries to suit all tastes- from classic Georgian to Turkish, Chinese and European. 10 Giorgi Akhvlediani Str., Tbilisi

ShERAtON GRAND mEtEchI PAlAcE The Sheraton Grand Tbilisi Metechi Palace is a five-star hotel in Avlabari overlooking the old town and run by Starwood Hotels

with a floor-to-ceiling wall of temperaturecontrolled bottles, 80% of which comes from Georgian producers, large companies as well as small and medium craft winemakers. Also worth a visit is the decadent yet homey Craft House cocktail and beer bar. Uniformed staff, the concierges in grey modernized chokha, stand ready to serve you. and Resorts Worldwide (Marriott International). The hotel was built in 1989 and opened in 1991, one of just a handful of joint ventures with Western companies seen during the Communist period, and remembered with nostalgia by many Tbilisians for its being a “beacon of light” in the darkest days following the collapse of the Soviet Union (it was quite literally one of few buildings with a constant supply of electricity!). Rebranding began in 2013, and in 2014 it was decided to close the hotel in order to allow for a full upgrade, which included a brand recognition of excellence in the addition of ‘Grand’ to its title. The Sheraton Grand Tbilisi Metechi Palace is now among the best Sheratons in the world, having had a $40 mln major refurbishment to bring it to 21st century contemporary standards of technology, style and comfort. Enter the infamously large lobby, which stretches up 12 floors and is decked out in elegant accents of wood, with soft furnishings in tones of gold, grey and red. Taste local delights in the Wine Library,

to stay

There are 220 rooms in the hotel , boasting contemporary designs and just as contemporary technology. Shades are pleasing pastels and artwork is done by a local artist. They also feature an environmental room management system which automates the heat and lighting related to occupancy, powering down automatically when the guest is not in the room in order to reduce energy consumption. While the hotel is a prime representative of the world-renowned brand, it also weaves in elements unique to the Caucasus. Conference rooms are named after Georgian mountains, the accents on wood paneling in the lobby reflecting mountain peaks, geometric designs on the carpets representing mountain shapes, and the glass chandeliers in the 1000 sq. m. Ballroom (the largest in the city) hinting at icy glaciers and gushing Georgian rivers. 20 Telavi Str., Tbilisi (+995) 322 77 20 20

lIffERENt hOtEl & SPA

tions, the Tbilisi Open Air Museum of Ethnography, the largest ‘store’ of Georgian folk culture, is located to the west of Kus Tba. For those who enjoy brand shops and checking out the latest trends in fashion, there are numerous shops and boutiques in the surroundings of the hotel.

The boutique hotel has an outstanding location on the 10th floor of a multifunctional building and comprises six rooms, all with private elevators. As well as rooms, the hotel also offers spacious two-room apartments designed in a similar style, ideal for family stays. All guests at the Lifferent Hotel & Spa can make use of the hotel’s sauna, gym and swimming pool. There is an incredibly cozy and warm aura in the hotel, set off by the fact that the décor and furniture is Georgian-made, as per the wishes of the owner, who wanted to show off the ability of local production to meet European standards, and yet the atmosphere is distinctly French luxury. All rooms are bright, featuring wide private balconies and a panoramic view of the city, impressive especially at night time when the entire city is lit up. The unique landscape of Vake Park sprawls to the right of the hotel, while the recreation zone of Kus Tba (Turtle Lake), which plays host to multiple cultural events and concerts, is just 10 minutes’ walk away. One of the most interesting tourist destina-

Lifferent Hotel & Spa has a unique Spa center which guarantees a magical journey in the world of face and body care. It is the only boutique hotel where it is possible to enjoy a wide range of treatments of exclusive, premium-level Korean brand products. All guests are given an opportunity to test cosmetology therapies such as: ‘Coconut Line’, which contributes to the PH balance and reduction of wrinkle depth; ‘Golden Ritual’ – RF lifting of face and neck areas, mesotherapy around the eyes, and ‘Anti-age Therapy’, which uses the substitutes of stem-cells and delivers active chemicals to the deepest layers of the skin, fills the wrinkles and cryo-lifts the facial and low-neck line. Try face ‘Hydration’, ‘Cleansing’ and ‘Peeling’ with the unique Ronas line, the very therapies which have substituted Bio revitalization treatment. If you wish to spend time with your friends and loved ones and are looking for a cozy, calm and sophisticated environ, you should certainly visit Lifferent Hotel & Spa.

region of Kakheti, especially considering the fact it is located near the small but impressive Palace (and museum) of King Erekle II and within walking distance of many major sights in the town. Relax with a coffee or wine in the open lobby or enjoy some traditional Georgian dishes at their Kakhelebi restaurant. Alternatively, head to the top floor for full spa treatment and to take a dip in the pool which overlooks the stunning vineyards of the Alazani Valley. In the evening, unwind further with top international cuisine paired with Georgian wine in the Iberico Tapas Bar & restaurant. 2 Rustaveli Ave., Telavi, Kakheti (+995) 32 261 11 11

‘ROOmS hOtEl kOkhtA’ tO BE BUIlt IN BAkURIANI

1 K.Kldiashvili Str., Tbilisi (+995) 322 15 80 15

hOlIDAy INN tElAvI With 85 elegantly styled rooms, the hotel makes a great base for exploring the wine

to stay

The 92-room Rooms Hotel Kokhta, and 70 apartments in the adjacent territory of the new ski area on the Kokhta mountain, are set for completion in the very near future. It will be located in Bakuriani, Kokhta Gora, on the new ski slopes of Kokhta and will serve guests year-round from summer 2019. The first phase of the resort development includes a 17,009 sq.m complex, of which 5,000 sq.m will cover apartments, while 12,000 sq.m will be used for the hotel. Rooms Hotel Kokhta will be based on the ski-in ski-out concept, offering ski run infrastructure that can be accessed directly from the hotel territory. Alongside the rooms/apartments, the hotel will include a conference hall for 300 guests, a restaurant for 300 guests, a lounge bar and terrace with 360-degree views, a swimming pool and other services.

RADISSON cOllEctION tSINANDAlI EStAtE hOtEl The Radisson Collection Tsinandali Estate Hotel was recognized at the 2018 Eastern Europe Real Estate Forum and Project Awards as “Hotel Project of the Year.”

relaxed, community-focused lifestyle and as the country’s most fertile wine region. The October opening ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Mamuka Bakhtadze who said, “It is no coincidence that the best traditions of Georgian culture continue here in Tsinandali, near the Chavchavadze Palace, where cultural life brimmed with activity as early as the 19th century. In addition, classical Georgian viniculture originated here on the Tsinandali Estate and here our winemaking traditions spanning 8,000 years continue today, with European viniculture also taking roots.” The Chavchavadze Palace, dating to 1830, is the former estate of Georgian poet Alexander Chavchavadze. Now a house-museum where visitors can see objects related to Chavchavadze’s life and work, the aristocratic culture of Georgia under Russian Imperial rule. There are also large, decorative gardens that cover 18 hectares of land. One of the first wine cellars in Georgia wine cellar was built on the property in 1835.

All rooms feature free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, an electric kettle, a bidet, a hair dryer and a desk. The hotel has units with garden views, and all rooms come with their own patio. The hotel also boasts a restaurant, 24-hour reception and room service. A buffet breakfast is available every morning. 43 Mazniashvili Str., Batumi (+995) 557 80 08 00

BRIm tBIlISI

Tsinandali Estate (+995) 350 27 77 00

BlOOm hOtEl BAtUmI

The five-star hotel has 141 rooms and features a library, outdoor and indoor restaurants, a spa, a swimming pool and fitness club, an amphitheater, and a concert hall. It also has a winery equipped with the latest technology to produce house wine from restored vineyards. Tsinandali is in Kakheti, Georgia’s easternmost province, known for a

within walking distance of the renowned Miracles Park, the Neptune Fountain and the Piazza.

Offering city views, a garden, bar and shared lounge, this hotel is ideally placed

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Brim Tbilisi is the first complex in city using a solar panel as its main source of energy and striving to implement an eco-friendly environment. It features 52 rooms, a café, rooftop terrace restaurant serving the best of Georgian cuisine, and a conference space- both the last with spectacular panoramic views of Tbilisi. Guestrooms are comfortable and fresh and service is always personal: the Brim team is always ready to assist you in

making a quality family vacation or business trips.

zEG hOtEl

12/14 M. Abdushelishvili Str., Tbilisi (+995) 322 12 00 12

WyNDhAm GRAND The attention-to-detail also continues in the bedrooms, which are comfortable and spacious. However, the crowning glory of Veranova Hotel is the roof terrace - the perfect place to end an evening looking over the skyline of Tbilisi.

The tagline of Wyndham Grand is “refined accommodation,” and that’s exactly what you can expect at their new location in Tbilisi. The hotel is on Liberty (Freedom) Square, within walking distance of Tbilisi’s most popular tourist attractions. The eight-floor hotel was designed by Georgian architect Paata Jgarkava, with a distinctive glass dome and a geometric lattice. It has 161 guest rooms and suites, including the luxurious presidential suite. It has the standard amenities you would expect from a 5-star hotel - fitness center, spa, indoor pool and sauna. Even for non-guests, the stylish rooftop bar and restaurant (creatively named ’Freedom’) serves European and Georgian cuisine, and fun cocktails. The best part, of course, is the view. Wyndham also offers conference and event facilities.

Zeg is one of the many clever, useful words in Georgian - it means “the day after tomorrow.” This adorable 4-star hotel (27 Kote Apkhazi Str.), in fact, may make you want to extend your stay until, at least, zeg. Located on the main thoroughfare of Old Tbilisi, Hotel Zeg puts you in the heart of the city’s charm, which continues inside the property with elegantly designed rooms. The vibe is high-end, modern, playful. A fun place to stay comfortably within walking distance from most tourist attractions. Most rooms have great views of the city. 27 K. Afkhazi Str. (+995) 574 73 62 62

vERANOvA hOtEl A new hotel has opened on the slopes of Mtatsminda Hill in Tbilisi, adding style to the popular Tbilisi neighborhood. When staying at Veranova Hotel, you can expect luxury. The airy hotel lobby has plush sofas and copper lighting and, of course, a bar to enjoy a glass of Georgian wine.

to stay

22 Barnovi Str. (+995) 577 25 08 46

hOtEl ADAmO

Found on the edge of Mtatsminda Park, Hotel Adamo is a boutique hotel offering you a unique experience in Tbilisi. The curved building makes the most of the panoramic views across Tbilisi, which can be enjoyed whilst eating a meal at the hotel’s restaurant. After a long day exploring the historic streets of Tbilisi, you can relax in the on-site wellness spa with a massage, or sit with a glass of Georgian wine at the stylish wine bar. P. Kakabadze Str. (+995) 322 44 88 44

WINE PALACE HOTEL THE HERO OF GEORGIAN HOSPITALITY

Wine Palace is a 4-star hotel located in the center of Tbilisi, within three minutes’ walk of the Technical University Metro Station. The major concept of this place is Georgian wine and hospitality. Georgian painters worked the interior and as you enter the lobby, the wall paintings will be the first to grab your attention and even the decor shows wine elements. The owner thinks that when guests enter the Wine Palace, they should feel the ambiance and diversity of the Georgian wine and cuisine culture, but the hotel is exceptional for many reasons, from its highquality customer service and special offers, to the free wine tasting and gifts from the owner. Wine Palace has four floors and 33 rooms. The majority of rooms have balconies and great views over the capital city. All are equipped with Free Wi-Fi, Satellite TV, an international phone and safes.

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Standard Single Standard Double Standard Twin Deluxe Double

But wait- there’s more! Wine tasting is available on the ground floor of the hotel, which includes a variety of wine, cheese and freshly baked bread. This is a great chance to see the process of unique Georgian wine and Chacha (vodka) making, bread baking in Tone and to enjoy the cheese of the different regions of the country. At the end of the wine tour, guests get a labelled bottle of red or white wine as a gift from the hotel. Outdoor tours are also on offer for visitors, with qualified staff able to plan personal trips and transfers for guests. Since it is now the winter season in Georgia, you might be interested in visiting one of the winter resorts or continue your wine adventure into the Kakheti region – the cradle of Georgian wine.

Address: 31, B. Kvernadze Str. Tbilisi TEL: +995 322 33 88 08, +995 555 35 55 55, +995 577 75 55 55 www.winepalace.ge Email: info@winepalace.ge Facebook: #HotelWinePalace

Listing: 4 & 5 Star Hotels in Georgia The Tbilisi hotel market reflects the city’s image as the corporate briefcase of the region and it comes well equipped with five-star offerings, as well as with a new breed of lower priced options for travelers on a budget. Offering 24-hour service and modern standards, the best hotels are most commonly located in the heart of the city. Hotels list their prices in Euros, Dollars or Lari, though in most cases your bill will be calculated in the local currency using the current exchange rate and payment is possible by credit card (VISA or MasterCard). The majority of Tbilisi hotels can arrange transportation services to and from the airport for their clients on the basis of prior agreement. There are several world brands operating in Georgia including Marriott, Sheraton, Radisson Blu and Holiday Inn which play host to thousands of guests throughout the year. All are distinguished by their remarkable architecture and interiors. A variety of exhibitions, conferences and official events are often held in the hotels and, over the next four years, six more global brands are expected to enter the Georgian market. High-end hotels usually host guests participating in the cultural, business and political life of the country. Tbilisi is a business city and occupancy rates reflect that. The average price for a night in such a hotel costs around $120-250.

thE BIltmORE hOtEl tBIlISI 29 Rustaveli Ave. TEL 272 72 72

The Biltmore Hotel Tbilisi is ideally situated within the historic and cultural district of the Georgia’s capital city. Close to the east bank of the Mtkvari River, this hotel is suitable for both business and leisure travellers. The immaculately restored grand lobby echoes the nostalgia of a bygone era, resonating the glamor and prestige of the social elite.

cOURtyARD tBIlISI 4 Freedom Sq. TEL 277 91 00 Perfectly located in Freedom Square in the heart of the city center, this hotel is within walking distance of the Georgian National Museum, Rustaveli Theater, and the State Opera House - not to mention a host of galleries, gardens, and other attractions. Modern and comfortable hotel rooms feature plush bedding, high-speed Internet access, climate control, and other amenities; many offer views of Tbilisi city center. Additional hotel perks include a fitness center and Jacuzzi, and a heated indoor pool. You can visit the hotel restaurant, Brasserie Freedom, for all-day dining. and Freedom Square views.

tBIlISI mARRIOtt hOtEl 13 Rustaveli Ave. TEL 277 92 00 www.marriott.com Once you enter its grand atrium-style lobby adorned with crystal chandeliers,

to stay

you’re greeted with renowned Georgian hospitality. Overlooking the Main Avenue or patio, the 127 luxury hotel rooms and suites feature a safe, mini-bar, individual climate control and broadband internet. Whether your trip entails business or leisure, enjoy galleries and theaters all within walking distance of the hotel. Marriott Hotel in Tbilisi is well-known as a spacious event venue. Offering first-class catering, there are 6 meeting rooms and a ballroom able to accommodate 200 guests. Dine in Parnas Restaurant for an elegant meal or have a light snack at Parnas Café & Lounge. Visit the Fitness Gym for a workout or relax in the sauna.

PORTA CAUCASIA KAZBEGI HOTELHOTEL PORTA KAZBE Feel atCAUCASIA home in Caucasus

Feel at home in Caucasus

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panoramic views over the Mkinvartsveri and Kuro Mountain Caucasia has pioneered the creation of a privatetoonline host you * World Porta Class Service rward * Georgian and European restaurants with ing foease azbegi platform for bookings and reservations, allowing of contact k K o o ia L s a unique and delightful cuisine Cauc * Spa &with Beauty Salon and Sauna hotel staff. at Porta * Wine Shop by Winery Khareba

World-famous Georgian Winery Khareba is the founder of Porta

Address: 2 Tergdaleulebi St., Stepantsminda (Kazbegi), Georgia Caucasia are wine tours inside FB: the@PortaCaucasiaKazbegi hotel on the ground Tel: +995 322 and 25 77there 70 Mail: info@portacaucasia.com

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THE HOTEL OFFERS: The hotel has Georgian and European cuisine represented in two restaurants within the hotal, featuring delicious dishes, made using * 33 Deluxe and Suite rooms with excellent locally produced products. The wine is something particularly worth panoramic views over the Mkinvartsveri and Kuro Mountain mentioning, asKharebaWinery presents varieties of wine in both * World Class Servicerestaurants. There is also a terrace and lounge on the top floor. rd to rwa * Georgian and European restaurants with oking fo aucasia o L unique and delightful cuisine Porta Caucasia is ideal for couples, families, rleisure Cholidays, * Spa & Beauty Salonbusiness and Sauna at Po ta trips. * Wine Shop by Winery Khareba

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Alpine2 Tour on Mount Kazbegi, with equipment(Kazbegi), and personal guide Address: Tergdaleulebi St., Stepantsminda Georgia provided. If you info@portacaucasia.com are more into history and culture, take advantage Tel: +995 322 25 77 70 Mail: FB: @PortaCaucasiaKazb of their Culture Tour, which includes a visit to various historical sites, including Gergeti Church and several Chateaus. Kazbegi is close to Gudauri resort and the hotel offers affordable transfer services.

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Address: 2 Tergdaleulebi St., Stepantsminda (Kazbegi), Georgia Tel: +995 322 25 77 70 Mail: info@portacaucasia.com FB: @PortaCaucasiaKazbegi

RADISSON BlU IvERIA hOtEl

Executive guest rooms. Inside every guest room, elegant interiors detailed with many original features offer comfortable living. The spacious feel is enhanced by high ceilings and tall windows, in keeping with the original architecture of the former Adjara hotel. The outstanding living and dining area, with elegant designer wallpaper and rich African wood flooring, provide a sanctuary in which to relax and entertain.

1 Rose Revolution Sq. TEL 240 22 00

mosque, synagogue, cable car and more. There are many cafes, bars, restaurants and other fun and relaxing places nearby.

Whether you’ve come for business or pleasure, you’ll leave with a sense of the beauty that surrounds the city’s central hotel, Radisson Blu Iveria, Tbilisi. The hotel offers a variety of dining options, an open terrace and outdoor pool, a topfloor bar and pool and a Spa. Travel anywhere you want to go in Tbilisi from the metro station which is just 300 meters from the hotel. Metro station - 300 m.; Tbilisi Railway Station - 5 km.; Tbilisi International Airport - 19 km

hOlIDAy INN 26 May Sq. TEL 230 00 99 www.hi-tbilisi.com

hOtElS & PREfERENcE hUAlING tBIlISI Tbilisi Sea District TEL 250 50 25 The hotel is only a five-minute drive from the East Point Shopping Mall while Tbilisi Saint Trinity Cathedral (Sameba) is a 15-minute drive from the hotel.

42 K. Apkhazi Str. TEL 272 46 14, 275 44 95 www.shardenvilla.ge

Address: Agmashenebeli Ave.140B TEL 224 41 44 www.cityavenue.ge

The Hotel has 22 classic modern and classic rooms. A number of the rooms have balconies, wonderful views on Narikala, the Temple of Metechi and the River Mtkvari. All the rooms are ensuite and offer hairdryers, flatscreen TVs, a safe, a telephone and a mini bar.

ShARDEN vIllA

Hotel Sharden Villa is a modern boutique style Hotel located in the historical center of Tbilisi near Meidan. You will find it surrounded by the top sightseeing spots of Old Tbilisi: the ruins of Narikala, Metechi Church and Sioni temples, Abanotubani, a

cIty AvENUE hOtEl

This magnificent 21-storey glass building used to be the symbol of the city during the Soviet era. Following its transformation, Holiday Inn Tbilisi can accommodate guests in 270 Standard, Business and

to stay

All rooms are air-conditioned and come with a 48-inch flat-screen TV with international channels. The private bathrooms include free toiletries, slippers, bathrobes and a hairdryer, a bath tub and separate shower cabin.

EmIGRANt hOtEl 6 Vashlovani Str. TEL 293 54 52, 599 02 66 44 Email: Hotel@emigrantboutique.ge

A stay in this hotel is both comfortable and convenient, as you can walk around the city, see all the important places and feel the grandeur of Tbilisi in all its value! The boutique-style hotel has three floors with a total of 10 rooms. Since opening in September, Emigrant has been taking very good care to assure all its guests a comfortable vacation in a harmonious synthesis of modernity and history.

hOtEl WINE PAlAcE 31, B. Kvernadze Str. TEL 233 88 08, 555 35 55 55 www.winepalace.ge Email: info@winepalace.ge Facebook: #HotelWinePalace

vINOtEl 4 E. Akhvlediani Ascent TEL 255 58 88 www.vinotel.ge Housed in a historic building that represents a monument of cultural heritage, the boutique Hotel Emigrant is located in the heart of the city and features a unique design. The entrance door of the Hotel is included in the list of 100 Best Modern Doors, as acknowledged by UNESCO. The building also houses the memorial apartment museum of Ekvtime Takaishvili, a prominent Georgian public figure. Tbilisi Concert Hall is a 3-minute walk away, as is the Tbilisi State University, Tbilisi Zoo and Tbilisi Circus. Vere Park is on a parallel street, in just a few steps away, and only 50 meters from the Hotel the famous Rustaveli Avenue begins, leading you to Liberty (Freedom) Square, past some of the key sights of the city: Tbilisi Opera and Ballet State Theater, Rustaveli State Drama Theater, shopping malls, fashion and souvenir shops, museums, cinemas and numerous dining possibilities and other attractions. The Hotel is 11 miles away from Tbilisi International Airport and the nearest railway station is just 1.5 miles away.

Hotel “Wine Palace” is located in the center of Tbilisi, behind the Sports Palace, only 2.3 km from Tbilisi Opera and Ballet Theater. The nearest metro station is just a 3-minute walk.

Where.ge is glad to introduce very special hotel in its Stay section this issue. Vinotel is a boutique hotel located in the old town, on the left embankment of Mtkvari River, 10 minutes from freedom square, near Sameba cathedral and the Presidential residence. World Luxury Awards recently awarded the hotel in two categories: ‘The Best Small Hotel in Eastern Europe’ and ‘The Best Boutique Hotel in Georgia’. It offers small quantity of rooms, including luxury suites featuring a hamam and fireplace, unique superior rooms, stylish semi-mansard rooms and a cozy top-view room. The location is superb for travelers interested in local food, city walks and old-town exploring.

to stay

The hotel fully meets the highest European standards. 33 comfortable rooms- standard and deluxe – come decorated in the highest artistic style (hand-painted walls, a delightful combination of classic and romantic styles) and are equipped with Free Wi-Fi, satellite TV, an international phone and safes. “Wine Palace” provides guests with breakfast served in a nice dining room, while delicious Georgian and European dishes can be ordered for dinner. The hotel also offers a fully equipped conference room for 70 people. Hotel “Wine Palace” has a unique wine cellar which stores about 100 brands of Georgian wine, as well as home-made wine. For hotel guests, wine tastings and national dishes are arranged. Guests can also book a tour to the regions through the hotel.

BORJOmI lIkANI hOtEl 16 Meskheti Str., Borjomi, Georgia Tel 229 22 92 Website: www.borjomilikani.com E: info@borjomilikani.com

Luxury 5 star Hotel Borjomi Likani is located 177 km away from Tbilisi (the capital of Georgia) in the middle of the coniferous park in Borjomi city, famous of its naturally carbonated mineral water from springs in the Borjomi Gorge of central Georgia. Hotel Borjomi Likani is located on the former territory of once popular Sanatorium of 4th deparment in Likani. Guests from all over the USSR used to gather here to spend time with family and friends and receive the benefits of the Health procedures offered, due to the curative effect of the Borjomi water. The famous Summer Palace of Russian royal Romanovs’ Family resided on the territory of the hotel is another reason for the guests to visit Borjomi Likani complex. The palace is under renovation today and soon will open its doors to all the guests. The Borjomi Likani Hotel features 151 comfortable rooms with stupendous view to the surroundings and modern amenities. Additional services: Spa & health Center, bars and restaurants, conference hall, kids club, weddings and entertainments.

GOlDEN tUlIP BORJOmI hOtEl 48, 9 April Str. Borjomi TEL 288 02 02, 591 02 80 82 E-mail: info@goldentulipborjomipalace.com www.goldentulipborjomipalace.com

Golden Tulip Borjomi Hotel is managed by French International hotel chain “Golden Tulip,” which belongs to “Louvre Hotels Group”. Golden Tulip Borjomi is one of the most attractive historical buildings in Borjomi, located just steps away from the popular Borjomi Mineral Waters Park. It was built in 1892 by the Consular of Iran in Russia, Mirza-Reza Khan, as a house with Spa Treatment and is nowadays considered a Unique Cultural Monument of the 19th Century. Golden Tulip Borjomi Hotel features 17 comfortable guest rooms including 2 Suites, 2 Classic singles and 13 Deluxe Double Rooms. Hotel services include Restaurant “Arfaye”, the Garden Café, Lobby Bar, brand new Fitness Room, Spa: Steam, Sauna, Jacuzzi, Bucket Shower and 1 exclusive treatment room.

to stay

mUSEUm hOtEl 8/10 Vakhtang Orbeliani Str. TEL 224 49 99

Museum Hotel Orbeliani is an appealing name, suggesting the hotel’s history as it is located in a historical residence of an old noble family Orbeliani, well known in high society of old Georgia. The architecture and interior design of the boutique hotel are unique, as is its service. The hotel is distinguished for its intimate atmosphere and idiosyncratic style; always upscale and combining historic 19th century details with chic elegance. Museum Hotel Orbeliani is located in the heart of Tbilisi, just 100m from the Dry Bridge Flea Market and within a walking distance of Rustaveli Avenue, Narikala Fortress and the ancient sulphur baths. Tbilisi Opera and Ballet Theater is 600 m and Freedom Square is 700 m away. Tbilisi International Airport is only 18 km from the hotel. The Hotel offers car hire and provides transfer services. Enjoy on-site gourmet Georgian-Persian restaurant ‘’Sirajkhana,’, a roof top lounge bar Mixology 810 with an incredible city view and café ‘’Museum’’ with a beautiful, cozy terrace on the ground floor.

thE tERRAcE BOUtIQUE hOtEl 7 P. Kakabadze Str. TEL 299 90 01

Stay in the Heart of Tbilisi City. Ideally located in Old Tbilisi, King Gorgasali is few steps from Shardeni Street, where you will find the top cafes, bars and restaurants. You’ll be just a 4-minute walk from Europe Square and Metekhi St. Virgin Church. King Gorgasali offers elegantly decorated rooms with memorable views and modern decor.

The exquisite design and timeless elegance of The Terrace boutique hotel can be found in the heart of Tbilisi’s historical center. Providing a unique blend of personalized attention and essential elements for an unforgettable city break, the Terrace Hotel’s team is committed to providing an exceptional experience to each and every guest. The spacious feel is enhanced by high ceilings and tall windows with original architecture overlooking one of the best views in the city for an authentic local experience.

The property also boasts a Georgian restaurant, Sormoni, a wine spot with sommelier service, khinkhali show room and a terrace with an amazing view. Enjoy the cozy lobby bar and memorable historical exterior to make your stay extra special.

tRIBEcA hOtEl 115 D. Agmashenebeli Ave. TEL 222 70 02

3 V. Gorgasali Str. TEL 222 50 80

NEW

The hotel offers a total of 38 rooms that are split into Comfort and Deluxe classes, with comfortable box-spring beds, air conditioning, flat-screen TV, safe boxes and bathrooms. The hotel team is motivated to make your stay unforgettable and the reception crew (selected for their natural smiles) is always ready to hear your wishes and to advise you on available restaurants in the neighborhood, sightseeing trips and shopping opportunities. Airport transfers, taxi services, theater tickets and restaurant reservations will be taken care of upon request. Tribeca Hotel is the perfect place to stay while in Tbilisi. Feel @ Home at Tribeca Hotel!

ARt BOUtIQUE hOtEl

There are 26 rooms, a meeting room and rooftop restaurant with 360 degree views of Tbilisi. The restaurant offers Georgian & European cuisine.

hOtEl kING GORGASAlI

refreshment corner for hotel guests and a wine parlor.

33 Tabukashvili Str. TEL 255 22 55 arthoteltbilisi@gmail.com

Tribeca Hotel, built in accordance with a design drafted in 1872 by local German architect Albert Salzmann, is located in the city center on Agmashenebeli Avenue, one of the most striking streets in Tbilisi. Along this avenue there is plenty to keep you, your family and friends entertained for days: one can find parks, theaters and museums, as well as numerous restaurants, cafes and curio shops. The cozy hotel lobby is inspired by the Manhattan Tribeca neighborhood, with a

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Art Boutique Hotel is a 4 star hotel, located in the heart of city Tbilisi with 30 modern different type of rooms with balcony and beautiful views of the city. Rooms equipped with a mini bar, coffee and tea facilities, safety deposit box and TV with cable and satellite channels. Hotel has the bar-restaurant, free Wi-Fi. Transfers and tours are provided upon request. Art Boutique Hotel’s main priority is to make guests feel comfortable and safe for 24 hours. Art Boutique it is not just a 4 star hotel, it is a symbol of Georgian hospitality.

NO12 BOUtIQUE hOtEl 12 Khodasheni Str. (near Leselidze) www.No12hotel.com @no12hotel TEL 255 22 12

tIflIS PAlAcE 3 Gorgasali Str. TEL 200 02 45 www.tiflispalace.ge Email: reservation@tiflispalace.ge

Attentive professionals with a passion for hospitality are always ready to assist our guests, guaranteeing you the best experience of Tbilisi.

BEtSy’S hOtEl 32-34 Makashvili Str. TEL 293 14 04 info@betsyshotel.com www.betsyshotel.com

If you’re planning to visit Tbilisi for pleasure or business and want to enjoy the quiet neighborhood of the charming Old Town, this 12-room hotel is the place for you. The comfortable, air-conditioned rooms offer warm-colored interiors with traditional elements of decor. The personalized service is what the hotel is all about. No12 Boutique Hotel offes: • Excellent location – in the heart of the Old Town but on a calm back street; nice design reflecting country-specific architecture • Comfortable, cozy, clean rooms, most with magnificent views • Buffet breakfast with a ‘Modern Georgian’ menu • Friendly and helpful hosts happy to advise you where to eat, what to see, how to get there.

Tiflis Palace is a luxurious boutique hotel, located in a very heart of Tbilisi, in the legendary place of the city’s foundation. It is surrounded by the best picturesque and breathtaking views available in Tbilisi as well as in the immediate vicinity of the most popular tourist attractions and the widest choice of restaurants, cafes and galleries. The hotel’s architecture reflects the ancient style, traditions and history of Old Tiflis and Maidan Square, emphasizing its unique location. The interior of Tiflis Palace is a perfect combination of discreet luxury, calm colors and modernity, with a light touch of oriental style characteristic of the old town. Tiflis Palace meets the modern requirements of international hospitality standards and features elegantly designed rooms and suites equipped with all necessary facilities; comfortable beds with antiallergy linen and orthopedic mattress, conference and banqueting facilities, and the best culinary venue.

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Betsy’s Hotel is an exquisitely decorated boutique hotel overlooking the center of Tbilisi. Our hotel’s stylish and inspirational character comes from twenty years of opening the doors to many visitors from across Georgia and abroad. The staff makes every stay unique with Georgian warmth and intimacy. The atmosphere is quiet and comfortable. Once you set foot in Betsy’s lobby and take in the spectacular view of Tbilisi, you’ll find yourself in a different world. The exceptional combination of the hotel’s Georgian and foreign identity has produced a lively and graceful atmosphere in a unique environment. Betsy’s Hotel is a center of Tbilisi social and business life.

ROOmS hOtElS tBIlISI 14 M. Kostava Str. TEL 202 00 99 www.roomshotels.com

Rooms Hotels is a young and independent lifestyle hotel brand based in Georgia that has quickly emerged as the premier leader of distinctive hospitality experiences in the region. The first Rooms Hotel opened its doors in summer 2012, in Georgia’s remote region, Kazbegi. This was followed by the Rooms Hotel Tbilisi in autumn 2014. Located in Vera, a charming and historic quarter of the capital which has long been associated with artists and intellectuals. The former publishing house has been refurbished into a modern innovative design hotel infusing the old cultural and visual heritage of its environs. It’s now a hotspot for local and international creatives in search of inspiration. The hotel proudly lives up to all earned appraisals. Rooms Hotel Tbilisi has breathed new life into the bohemian neighborhood of Vera, attracting creatives and artists with its unique brand of design-led hospitality. The aesthetics are chic and comfortable, defined by rich tones, natural materials, and plush textures. The Bar Room and the Kitchen restaurant draw in guests and visitors for handcrafted cocktails and modern casual dining with

contemporary dishes, creating a social meeting space that defies the standard hotel definition. Elegant and inviting, the eight categories of guest rooms are spread over five floors, fully booked during significant city events, including the Tbilisi and Mercedes-Benz Fashion Weeks. Located on the fifth floor, the Terrace Queen and Terrace King rooms stream in all the sunlight through their floor-to-ceiling windows. You’ll be fascinated by their cozy private terraces overlooking the hotel’s courtyard garden.

Best Western Kutaisi as a place to stay. We also recommend tasting Imeretian cuisine in the on-site restaurant!

fABRIkA 8 Ninoshvili Str. TEL 202 03 99

BESt WEStERN kUtAISI 11 Grishashvili Str. TEL 219 71 00 www.bwkutaisi.com

Until 2016, Kutaisi couldn’t boast any well-known names in its list of hotels. But quite recently one of the oldest cities in Georgia, an important transport hub and home of UNESCO Heritage Site, got its first brand hotel: a Best Western. Overlooking the white waters of Rioni River and the locally famous White Bridge, the hotel is located very centrally. Old Town, with its choice of traditional restaurants, can be reached on foot, and the famous Gelati and Bagrati monasteries are reachable by car in 15-20 minutes. The other attractions of Imereti region are within a 1 or 2-hour drive. A classic design, international level of comfort and Georgian level of sincere hospitality are the main reason to choose

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The big cultural success since 2016, Fabrika is a perfect example of gentrification on the left bank of Mtkvari River. Hostel and suites, co-working space, shops and ateliers, food joints and bars are united in a conceptual space that used to be a sewing factory in the Soviet period. Every night, even on Mondays, the inner yard is full of people hanging out, drinking beer or wine, and chatting into the small hours. On the weekends, there are usually concerts or DJ sets of local musicians in one of the resident bars or even in the yard. Such events usually bring together crowds of hundreds from all over.

mARIONN hOtEl 9 Al. Tsurtsumia Str. TEL 224 26 26 www.hotelmarionn.com Hotel Marionn is located in the heart of Tbilisi’s old Avlabari district. The modern building blends in perfectly with the historical features of the area. The hotel offers fully equipped rooms with flat-screen TV, a minibar, a desk, a safe and a wardrobe. Free Wi-Fi and 24/7 video security throughout the hotel.

hOtEl PORtA cAUcASIA kAzBEGI 2 Tergdaleulebi Str., Stepantsminda (Kazbegi), Georgia TEL 225 77 70 Mail: info@portacaucasia.com FB: @PortaCaucasiaKazbegi Feel at home in Caucasus

are wine tours inside the hotel on the ground floor. The hotel has Georgian and European cuisine represented in two restaurants within the hotal, featuring delicious dishes, made using locally produced products. The wine is something particularly worth mentioning, as Khareba Winery presents varieties of wine in both restaurants. There is also a terrace and lounge on the top floor. Porta Caucasia is ideal for couples, families, leisure holidays, business trips. Kazbegi is close to Gudauri resort and the hotel offers affordable transfer services.

Porta Caucasia, meaning ‘Gate to the Caucasus’ is a freshly launched four-star hotel located in the heart of Kazbegi. Porta Caucasia is the perfect place to stay if you’re interested in visiting this region. It is unusual to find such comfort and support high in mountains, but you will be amazed to discover the high-quality service this hotel provides. The hotel stands out for numerous reasons. Paying attention to detail, the interior is manufactured by Villeroy & Boch, as is the furniture, which is wooden and ecofriendly. Luxury and taste merge to create a great sense of ambiance. Each room is well equipped, offering all the important facilities. Private bathrooms come with top-of-the-range toiletries. Porta Caucasia has pioneered the creation of a private online platform for bookings and reservations, allowing ease of contact with hotel staff. World-famous Georgian Winery Khareba is the founder of Porta Caucasia and there

Rooms 28 Standard (14 front & rear view) 2 Deluxe (1 front & 1 rear view) 1 Standard Triple (corner view) 2 Junior Suites (front/corner view) Connecting Rooms (for families) Meeting room Room with Disabled Access • Spa & Beauty Salon • Sauna • Wine Shop by Khareba Winery • Terrace & Lounge • 24/7 Transfer service • Alpinism Tours • Cultural Tours

mERcURE tBIlISI OlD tOWN 9 Gorgasali Str., Tbilisi Old Town TEL 200 60 60 The 4-star Hotel Mercure Tbilisi Old Town is managed by Accor Hotels Group, the world’s leading hotel operator and market leader in Europe. The hotel features

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conference room, gym & spa, The Old Town Restaurant & Garden and Sky7 Terrace & Lounge Bar which offer a perfect combination of international and Georgian cuisine. Hotel is located in the very heart of the

IBIS StylES tBIlISI cENtER 4 G. Tabidze Str. TEL 200 24 24

ibis styles Tbilisi center is the second hotel in Tbilisi managed by Accor Hotels Group. Hotel has 119 rooms in total, lobby business corner and The City Roof Bar on the fifth floor which offers variety of Asian and Georgian dishes. ibis styles located in the city center is a non-standardized economy and design brand aimed at all those who are looking for “the best of the best”.

PARAGRAPh RESORt & SPA ShEkvEtIlI AUTOGRAPH COLLECTION Hotels Highway E70 Shekvetili 3521 TEL 299 99 00 www.paragraphhotels.com info@paragraphhotels.com

diverse collection of fish and marine animals, offers hotel guests an opportunity to experience 360-degree view and a walk-through tunnel for a close-up look at those living in this underwater community. Covering 430 m2 and hosting dozens of marine animals’ species “The Big Blue” impersonates and upholds the natural and calming elements of the hotel.”

and the bars and restaurants of the hotel have been made as prominent as the first restaurant was back in the day.

cAStEllO mARE hOtEl & WEllNESS RESORt, tSIkhISDzIRI TsiIkhisdziri, Adjara TEL 0422 21 28 28

Paragraph Resort & Spa, Shekvetili offers three different restaurants with delicious and refined dishes. The hotel is also ideal for the business purposes as it has several conference and meeting rooms. Paragraph Resort & Spa, Shekvetili — a unique place where perfect blend of sea and forest landscape welcomes bold contemporary design engraving new paragraph in the history of fabled Georgian hospitality. The resort offers majestic winter garden, indoor aqua park and the jewel of the property — 115m long filtered seawater pool built into mindfully designed panoramic deck.

Guests can enjoy a variety of swimming pools, kids clu b, SPA and many other facilities that create pleasant, comfortable and relaxing ambience

AmBASSADORI hOtEl 17 Shavteli Str. TEL 243 94 94 The story of the first ever Georgian hotel brand Ambassadori Tbilisi began in 2004 with the construction of a 7-room hotel. Demand for more rooms increased by the day. In 2013 a new building was added to the old one. Then we decided to expand again and a high class hotel was built with the projects of Italian architects and designers, next to the old “Ambassadori.”

Explore the life of the ocean in the Grand Aquarium – “The Big Blue”, one of the highlights of Paragraph Resort and Spa Shekvetili. The unique underwater environment, which serves as a home to a

The new five star Ambassadori hotel, with 121 rooms, beautiful terraces, magnificent views, comfortable rooms and service with high standards creates an unforgettable experience for guests

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Hotel and wellness resort Castello Mare is located in a magnificent place with tropical plants on the territory of Tsikhisdziri, 17 kilometers from Batumi, the capital of Adjara, Georgia. Directly on the Black Sea coast, this place is familiar to many visitors as the resort Tsikhisdziri, where, until 1991, it functioned as the hugely popular sanatorium “Nauka”.

hOtEl khOkhOBI 7 Abano Turn TEL +995 706 130 130 Located in the very heart of Old Tbilisi, in one of the most beautiful and ancient districts called Abanotubani, Hotel Khokhobi can be found right next to the famous Sulphur Baths. With its fully equipped 24 rooms overlooking the city and the small streets of old town, you will feel the heartbeat of Tbilisi city.

New Radius Hotel Launched In The Heart Of Tbilisi

With the support of the Georgian Co-Investment Fund, a new Brand hotel Radius has been launched in the heart of Tbilisi, within a handâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reach from Freedom Square. Radius Hotel Tbilisi is the first hotel in Georgia integrated into a multifunctional shopping center. Targeted on socially active individuals, Radius hotel is the best choice to experience Tbilisi at its most. This 78 rooms urban design property

with bright accents and dynamic interior is built in accordance with all international standards. Discover Your Radius Of Joy. Address: 2/4 Shota Rustaveli Ave., Tbilisi, Georgia TEL (+995) 32 200 99 00 www.radiushotels.ge info@radiushotels.ge F: @radiushoteltbilisi

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Exclusive Restaurant Guide . . . e c i o h C My

Konstantin Tedeluri Brand Chef, Jury Member of MasterChef Konstantin Tedeluri is a young and talented chef, owner of the ‘Chef’s Grandma’ restaurant and brand chef at ‘Chef’s Brothers’ and ‘Krtsanisi Residence Palace.’ He is also a jury member of the famous TV show MasterChef. Konstantin was named Young Chef 2018 by Gault&Millau and his restaurant Chef’s Grandma was named Best Conceptual Restaurant 2019 by the same. We asked him to recommend his favorite places to dine, and this is what he said…

chEf kONStANtIN tEDElURI’S chEf’S tABlE This is a space where I stand beside guests and prepare a meal exclusively for them. It is a one-man theater performance with delicious results!

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chEf’S GRANDmA Old, traditional Georgian family dining merged with modern techniques. Guests watch the dishes being prepared from beginning to end. The chef is a grandmother, the waiter is a grandson, and the pianist is a grandfather.

chEf’S BROthERS Enjoy meals prepared with a Georgian flair. The main brother is a chef, the second is a sommelier and the third is a barman, each with their own menu. The staff is dressed in clothing of the 1970s.

cOcA-cOlA EAtERy At this old Georgian eatery, old Georgian flavors reflect what gastronomy was like in Georgia during communism.

cAfé-REStAURANt SchOOl At 17 Rustaveli Ave., you’ll find a café-restaurant with modern cuisine based on Georgian flavors. Both the atmosphere and interior are pleasant, and customers can tuck into Georgian sandwiches and burgers.

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Tbilisi Restaurants - A New Era By Amy Jones

Dingy taverns with animal skins hanging on the wall and restaurants with dilapidated interiors are firmly becoming a thing of the past in Tbilisi. Over the past years, a new string of restaurants has opened with style and design at their forefront, some of which have even gone on to win international design competitions. Although traditional restaurants and food remain popular, the fresh generation of restaurants is challenging the status quo and creating unique dining experiences in Tbilisi.

StAmBA With giant lush green trees flanking its doors and impeccable spacious design, Stamba has become one of the most prestigious restaurants on the Tbilisi eating scene. This playful restaurant adds a refreshing twist to Georgian traditional dishes such as chicken with plum sauce and khachapuri. If you are looking for more invention, they even serve a beetroot cappuccino. 14 Merab Kostava Str., Tbilisi (+995) 32 202 11 99 8am - Late

kEtO AND kOtE Overlooking the city in Vera, Keto and Kote oozes class. Their menu is classic and tasty, with dishes such as lobiani, BBQ meats, and mini khinkali with pesto dressing. Popular with internationals living and visiting Tbilisi, you pay for what you get in Keto and Kote. The interior of the restaurant is upmarket; however, it is the beautiful outside area that makes this restaurant really stand out. 3 Mikheil Zandukeli Dead End, Tbilisi (+995) 32 293 02 00 11am - 1am

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ball. Lolita is one of the hippest places in Tbilisi and it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t hide that fact. The staff are cool, the customers well-dressed, and most importantly the Italian and Georgian fusion food is good. Belonging to the same hospitality group as Stamba, Lolita has also garnered a reputation for its excellent service and amazing style. 7 Tamar Chovelidze Str., Tbilisi (+995) 32 202 02 99 11am - 1am

thE flOWER fActORy ShAvI lOmI Shavi Lomi is often credited with modernizing Georgian cuisine. The brainchild of chef Meriko Gubeladze, Shavi Lomi serves delicious dishes as you have not experienced them before in Georgia. Guests tuck into wooden sharing bowls filled with soft cheeses, phkali walnut and spinach paste, fresh cornbread, beans, and pickles, whilst another table devours apple pie. Designed like a quirky living room with a huge garden area, Shavi Lomi is

the perfect setting for a cozy evening of great food. 28 Zurab Kvlividze Str., Tbilisi (+995) 32 296 09 56 12pm - 12am

lOlItA Chefs jig to disco music as they prepare dishes behind the open kitchen. Instagrammers pose in front of the bar, standing on the white and black tiles, beneath a disco

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In a hidden corner of Vera, concealed behind a green urban forest of plants of various shapes and sizes, the Flower Factory is the most living place in Tbilisi to grab a coffee or a light lunch. The flower and plant shop-cum-cafe is an oasis of calm from the concrete jungle of the city. Opening at 9 am, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also one of the few places where you can find a good cup of coffee in Tbilisi before 11. 1 Vasil Petriashvili Str., Tbilisi (+995) 593 47 47 47 9am - 1am

Cafes with Terraces By katie Ruth Davies

Where better to escape the heat with a wine or iced coffee than a shady terrace hidden in the depths of a blooming garden or on a roof overlooking the city? Check out our top choices of cafes with terraces and make your next lunch or dinner date count!

Verde is a is a romantic, Italian-inspired restaurant perched high in the Tbilisi hills, affording guests a beautiful view of the city from its large garden. The menu is largely Italian, but with surprises of Georgian and Asian-inspired dishes as well, along with basic ‘American’ staples like steak, cheesecake, and club sandwiches. Additionally, their selection of seafood is surprisingly diverse and good for a country that tends to fare better with land-based options. They have live music many nights.

144 StAIRS

The service can be quite slow – so don’t come too hungry! 18 Amashukeli Str., Tbilisi (+995) 32 214 87 78 12 PM – 12 AM

cAfE vERDE

This is a historical place under the Narikalla hill- ideal for those looking to get a feel of the Old Town spirit. Enjoy affordable Georgian and European cuisine, Georgian wine and the beauty of Tbilisi from the terrace, served by wellmannered staff and surrounded by a selection of artwork. 27 Betlemi Str., Tbilisi (+995) 596 44 41 44 12 PM – 3 AM

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ORNAmENt EXPRESS

GARDENIA ShEvARDNADzE Enter the enchanted garden created through the love and effort that Zura Shevardnadze and his team keep putting into it. Buying plants and lovely boho-style decorations for your home, developing a design for your own garden, having a tea or lemonade with fantastic cakes or snapping a new profile picture are just some of the reasons to visit Gardenia. The location is not central, so you might need a taxi, or take bus #36, #48 or #111 from metro station Station Square 2. The trip is totally worth it! The concentration of cuteness and good taste is simply immense.

wine or delicious brand cocktails, or even a cup of its famous cappuccino. Their menu is designed to meet the expectations of guests with various tastes, and the specially invited Chef from Turkey aims to amaze guests with culinary masterpieces of local and international cuisine. 3 Gorgasali Str., Tbilisi (+995) 32 200 02 45 10:30AM - 2:00AM And out of the capital city…

Right next to Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and with a view to the Jvari Monastery on the hill outside of town, this beautifully designed restaurant offers Georgian fare and beverages served in a friendly and professional environ that reflects the hospitality Georgia is famous for. The beef burgers come highly recommended and all the ingredients are fresh. 14 Erekle II Str., Mtskheta (+995) 599 29 44 22 9 AM – 11 PM

The upper end of Khudadovi Str., Tbilisi (+995) 599 18 16 34 Tues-Sun 9 AM – 7 PM

tIflIS vERANDA Surrounded by breathtaking views of the city’s most important historical and cultural monuments, Tiflis Veranda is the perfect place to enjoy a glass of the best Georgian

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Taste of the East in Georgia By katie Ruth Davies

While it is indisputable that Georgian cuisine is delicious for its mix of herbs, spices, cheese and vegetables, after a while you’ll likely get a longing for something else. Tbilisi (and Batumi) are ready to serve, with an ever-expanding offering of Chinese, Japanese, Persian and Turkish restaurants opening their doors. We’ve listed a few below to tempt your tastebuds the next time you get bored of khinkali and khachapuri…

NAyEB REStAURANt

12 Sh. Dadiani Str., Tbilisi (+995) 551 15 37 60 12 PM - 1 AM

thAI cURRy

WASABI

Nayeb is a Persian restaurant located in the city center, just off Liberty (Freedom) Square. The central location, reasonable prices, and authentic Persian food are all great reasons to stop by. Their kebabs are juicy and fresh, and come with a generous portion of saffron rice. Most evenings they have live music - usually either a DJ or a guitarist. The restaurant is mostly frequented by Iranians, both tourists and locals. It’s an immersive cultural experience!

Wasabi is a trendy sushi restaurant in Tbilisi’s upscale Vake neighborhood. Although they specialize in sushi, the menu is not limited - rice and noodle bowls, sashimi, soups, and salads - something for even the most reticent explorer of Japanese cuisine. Check out their great lunch specials starting at just 12 GEL! 60 Abashidze Str., Tbilisi (+995) 32 219 19 29 12 PM - 12 AM

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Thai Curry is a small, unassuming restaurant off Rustaveli Ave. Their menu has a wide variety of Thai dishes, from curries, noodles, and rice dishes, to soups, sushi and seafood. The place is lent an authentic touch by their Thai chefs and owners. Tbilisi’s small Thai population frequents this cozy, simple restaurant, so you know it is a good choice among the city’s variety of Asian and Asian-adjacent cuisine options! Try the hot pot, offered as a special some days, or the unique, tasty dessert menu – something totally new for those not familiar

with Thai desserts! You can wash it all down with a glass of Boba tea.

BEIRUt PAShA

SPIcE GARDEN BAtUmI

37 Gribovedov Str., Tbilisi (+995) 558 40 88 36 11 AM – 9 PM

BIRyANI zONE

Biryani Zone, in their words, gives customers “the spice of India.” This restaurant is located in the Saburtalo neighborhood of Tbilisi, near Tbilisi State Medical University, which has many Indian students.

Aromatic spices and the scent of roasting meat fills the air as you step into Beirut Pasha, an authentic Lebanese restaurant in Tbilisi. Hidden between the crumbling art nouveau architecture of Ivane Machabeli Street and opposite the Writers’ House of Georgia, this restaurant may be not special to look at, but its food makes it worth a visit.

Biryani Zone specializes in Indian desserts, and you can get a box of sweets to go!

The friendly staff at Beirut Pasha cook up a variety of traditional Lebanese dishes, from tasty shish kofta sandwiches, to tabbouleh and fattoush salads, grape leaves and mixed grills. All of their food is halal. Known for surprising their guests with a red fez hat, don’t be surprised if you find yourself posing in your new accessory by the end of the evening. For those who are looking for a change from khachapuri and khinkali and who want to try something different, Beirut Pasha is an unassuming Lebanese restaurant with delicious food.

They also offer a meal plan for students - $100 per month gets you two meals a day!

16 Machabeli Str., Tbilisi (+995) 574 66 66 54 9 AM - 1 AM

Biryani Zone caters mainly to those students, looking for a taste of home. They often have specials like candlelit Valentine’s Day dinners.

The fragrant aroma of Indian spices fills the room; cumin, fresh coriander, garam masala, and cardamon seeds. Tandori chicken sizzles in clay pots next to steaming basmati rice and naan bread. Welcome to Spice Garden Batumi – serving authentic Indian food in Georgia. Spice Garden Batumi serves all your Indian favorite dishes in the center of Batumi: chicken tikka masala with chunks of marinated chicken in a spiced curry sauce, gosht karahi prepared with goat or lambs’ meat, buttery naan, crispy onion barges and fragrant south Asian vegetable rice. Located on Batumi’s beachfront, the circular restaurant has panoramic views of the Black Sea. Although a long way away from khinkali and khachapuri ajaruli, Spice Garden Batumi is a delicious alternative to Georgian classics. 16 Sherif Khimshiashvili, Batumi (+995) 596 12 50 50 11 AM - 11 PM

20 V. Pshavela Ave., Tbilisi (+995) 574 02 61 17

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Meals on Wheels By katie Ruth Davies

We all feel too lazy to cook from time to time. Or perhaps, like me, you’re a disaster in the kitchen and daren’t touch a pot. Or maybe it’s late or you’ve no time to leave the office for lunch. Maybe you and the kids just have a craving for burgers tonight but can’t be bothered with the stress of heading out into the busy streets to get ’em. Well, Tbilisi has finally caught up with the rest of the world, with a number of speedy delivery services to be found, their moped-riders zipping through traffic with bright delivery bags to drop off their wares to the next hungry customer.

GlOvO

mENU.GE

WOlt

https://glovoapp.com/en/tbi

https://www.menu.ge/en/tbilisi/ delivery/home.html

https://wolt.com/en/geo/tbilisi/

Identifiable by its yellow box and green tag logo, Glovo is a Spanish start-up founded in Barcelona in 2015. It is an on-demand courier service that purchases, picks up, and delivers products ordered through its mobile app. Food delivery is the most popular offering and in Tbilisi, that covers hundreds of restaurants of every taste and style. Get the app, scroll, click and your culinary dream will soon be at your door!

This one is best for your browser and offers the categories on an easy-to-read menu on the left. Click on what you fancy and choose a restaurant, then click on what makes your stomach growl! Service is fast and affordable.

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Founded in 2014 in Helsinki, Finland, the company has since expanded to over 52 cities, including Tampere, Turku, Tallinn, Stockholm, Vilnius, Copenhagen, Prague, Brno, Tbilisi, Athens and Tel Aviv. When it hit Tbilisi, it was met with huge success. The service is also easy to use, with special offers and customer favorites listed.

Puri Guliani is the first unique concept Georgian Sakhabazo (bakery) to appear on the Georgian market: a new, and interesting gastronomic space. A heart-warming space for any gathering, Puri Guliani is a distinct food and beverage locale with a specifically designed menu and interior, catering for guests of all preferences at breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Thanks to its open kitchen and intricate interior design, guests have the chance to engage and become part of the whole gastronomic process. Warm bread and pastries with delightful and mouthwatering aromas remind guests of their childhoods and open up a whole new world of gastronomic discoveries yet to be made. Puri Gulianiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s menu is a unique find for locals and tourists alike. Every day, they create

varieties of traditional dishes with Georgian wheat and seasonal products from different regions, artisan bread and pastries and delicious desserts, spiced and made all the more attractive with the taste of savory, newly ground coffee.

Puri Guliani - Bakery and Kitchen Saarbrucken Square TEL 577 00 00 83

Listing: Georgian & Mixed Cuisine in Tbilisi lADURéE GEORGIA

SAlOBIE BIA

vERIkO

21a I. Abashidze Str. TEL 577 38 00 00, 2 22 83 83 info@laduree.ge

14 Machabeli Str. TEL 299 79 77

1 Petriashvili Str. TEL 591 33 22 77

Ladurée, the legendary Parisian tea salon, with a history of more than 150 years, has finally opened its doors in Tbilisi. Located in one of the most prestigious districts of the city, Ladurée gives true sweet-lovers a chance to discover various delicious pastries from the French ‘boulangerie’ and enjoy a full assortment of exclusive macaron flavors, prepared in only one place in the world according to a secret recipe.

Salobie Bia offers traditional Georgian meals. It’s a beautifully decorated place, surrounded by paintings, old furniture and modern objects.

chvENI 8 Tchorokhi Str. TEL 555 71 00 67, 555 67 03 09

Veriko restaurant is a new project in Wine Factory#1 offering Georgian cuisine under the leadership of talented chefs. Comfortable terrace overlooking the garden of the Wine Factory and a large room with soft armchairs and air conditioning. A compact menu with traditional dishes of Georgian cuisine.

vERIS DUQANI 1 Petriashvili Str. TEL 595 92 59 15, 591 39 32 32

Step into the bakery and emerge yourself in a luxury Parisian atmosphere that is both cozy and pleasant. Ladurée has made a dream come true for all macaron lovers in Georgia. Go and enjoy delicious, soft macarons, pastries, viennoiseries as well as other delights from a French menu!

A Georgian kitchen and cozy atmosphere, Chef’s room (multifunctional), open space hostel, Japanese style. Cheni is open from 12:00-01:00.

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Veris Duqani with Geogrian cuisine is a unique establishment from Tbilisi-based restaurateur and TV presenter Keti Bakradze boasts a menu masquerading as one you’d find in a classic duqani. (Duqani is traditional Georgian eateries).

tBIlI SIO

mEGRUlI ODA

tIflIS vERANDA

1 Petriashvili Str. TEL 599 63 38 11

2nd km., Marshal Gelovani Ave. TEL 251 73 27, 599 18 38 97

3 Gorgasali Str. TEL 200 02 45 www.tiflispalace.ge Email: tiflisveranda@tiflispalace.ge

The restaurant offers delicious Megrelian cuisine. Megruli Oda is available for banquets, wedding parties, birthday celebrations and other events.

G.vINO Description: Tbili sio is a unique wine bar/ Cafe located in the center of Tbilisi, in the old, ‘secret garden’ It has both options for sitting: inside - cozy and beautiful winter garden setting and outside beautiful old trees and special table swings; The general atmosphere is very calm, with soft background music and relaxing setting; The menu options are suited for everyone: vegetarians, wine lovers, and craft beer enthusiasts.

ARt hOUSE tBIlISI Rike Park TEL 557 51 50 52

6 Erekle II g.vinotbilisi TEL 293 21 21

Restaurant Tiflis Veranda is a combination of classic restaurant and lounge style summer terraces.

Inspired by wine and tapas bars in Europe with their casual setup, delicious local food, diverse local natural wine offer and happy staff, g.Vino aims to support small local wine producers and help them save some rare Georgian grapes. All our staff are new to the industry. Take the example of our cooking team, with a lady who used to prepare amazing food only for her family Check out how home-made food really tastes.

tAShRE Art House Tbilisi has a special, cosy atmosphere, with a harmonic music, interesting art interior and friendly staff. Beautiful terrace, where you can enjoy an amazing panoramic views of Tbilisi is perfect for a romantic date or even for a family happy hours.

88 Beliashvili Str. TEL 514 15 55 88 Restaurant Tashre is a place where the best, natural dishes of Megrelian cuisine, prepared by a high-class chef, meet the true spirit of a feast.

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It offers exquisite dishes of local and international cuisine, exclusive deserts and brand cocktails, and high-quality service against a background of great music. Only here, surrounded by breathtaking views of the city’s most important historical and cultural monuments, can one feel the real spirit of Tbilisi. Tiflis Veranda is ready to serve its guests daily from 11AM to 2AM.

mEGRUlI SAkhlI 13 Mosashvili Str., 13 Atoneli Str. (Dry Bridge) TEL 591 03 43 43 Megruli Sakhli offers a wide range of Megrelian dishes including Gebjalia, Bujenina, Elarji, Ghomi, Kuchmachi and Kupati.

REStAURANt mEAmA 8 Dzmebi Zdanevichebi Str., Tbilisi TEL 558 31 11 33

Many have written and spoken about the 19th century Bohemian life-style of Tbilisi. Old Meidan was one of the most picturesque neighborhoods of the capital with its ancient barrels. Tbilisi markets were supplied each morning with poultry and vegetables delivered on donkeys from this point. The “Tiflis cooked fish,” caught in Old Tbilisi, were sold on barrels and stalls. All members of society visited and drank wine and feasted on traditional dishes here, including Chikhirtma, Chakhrakina, Shkmeruli, Ghomi, Oraguli, Korkoti, Pelamushi. The main dish of the table was trout with lemon.

Unique recipes and natural products are used in restaurant Meama. Unbeatable cuisine, a cozy-authentic environment, Georgian hospitality and Georgian tunes create a harmonious blend that make up the table at Meama. • The fusion between Old Tbilisi European and Asian architecture, Old Tbilisi stories and culture are reflected in each dish at Meama, leaving an unforgettable impression and taste for all guests. • The taste of each dish, along with the unique collection of wines, revive the Old Tbilisi tales and nostalgic aroma.

kEtO & kOtE

DINEhAll 28 Rustaveli Ave. TEL 200 16 16

D. Toradzis Str. TEL 555 53 01 26 Keto & Kote is one of the most charming restaurants in Tbilisi, named after a famous 20th century Georgian movie. Ask for a table on the terrace or in the garden under the grapevines and enjoy a view of Tbilisi at night and tasty Georgian cuisine.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Tbilisi cuisine and “Ortachala Romanticism” were replaced by trattorias, mainly opened in hotels. Those raised in a European way and foreign visitors thus got to taste European dishes. More than a century later, 21st century Tbilisi is still hosting a large number of foreign guests and on one of the cozy streets of Old Tbilisi, the restaurant Meama offers the same unique Georgian dishes of old in the aroma of Dzmebi Zdanevichebi Street.

healthy dining experience in Tbilisi that serves only village-grown, non-GMO and seasonal products.

cAfé lEIlA 18 Shavteli Str. TEL 555 94 94 20 Cafe Leila is a pescetarian (some fish options available on the menu) and a

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At Dinehall, there is high quality delicious fresh food on the menu as well as hospital service. Dinehall combines five venues in one – cafe, restaurant, bar, wine cellar, patisserie, and art gallery. Dinehall believes that less is more. To be able to serve the best of the best, they offer a limited and unique menu of fine international dishes prepared with a twist. In Dinehall Art area, they host various famous painters and art exhibitions. Conveniently located on Rustaveli Avenue, Dinehall is a modern and trendy venue with lots to offer.

FISH & MEAT RESTAURANT II FLOOR

Two Different Restaurants in one Space

GEORGIAN RESTAURANT I FLOOR

T: (+995) 591 914 416 / Ardagani Lake 6000, Batumi F: Grand Grill Restaurant / F: Ardagani Terrasa

tIflIS mEIDANI 6 Rkinis Rigi Str. TEL 599 25 06 25, 322 75 10 38 OPEN 11:00 am – 12:00 amFacebook: / tiflismeidani Mail: tiflismeidani@gmail.com

restaurant menu aims to preserve the distinctiveness of the Georgian recipes, its tastes and spicy flavors, creating a fusion of a contemporary approach and breathing new life into often ancient Georgian dishes. Although Tiflis Meidani restaurant can accommodate 120 guests, it is equally able to offer a cozy dining experience for a small group of friends. There are nightly Georgian song performances every day and traditional Georgian dance shows five days a week from Tuesday to Saturday.

khARchO 18 L. Gudiashvili Str. TEL 544 44 45 44 Tiflis Meidani Wine Restaurant offers a unique atmosphere to drink and dine in in the very heart of the Old Tbilisi. The

lUcA POlARE 34 K. Apkhazi str. (Old Tbilisi) 12 R. Eristavi str. (Round garden) 125 D. Aghmashenebeli avenue 7a Pekini ave. 2 A.Tvaltchrelidze str. (East Point) 7 Sandro Euli str. 2 Dzemebi Kakabadzeebi str. 2/4 Rustaveli ave. (Galleria Tbilisi) 11 I. Mosashvili str. Facebok: LucaPolareOriginal Instagram: Lucapolare Web: Lucapolare.com Tel: +995 0322 38 08 02 Working Hours: 08:00 am – 02:00 am

Restaurant Kharcho is the first restaurant of its kind in Georgia with a small menu mainly focused on simple Georgian

Luca Polare is one of the top destinations for Tbilisi’s residents. The polar bear Luca’s cafes scattered throughout the city invite you to enjoy the most flavorful ice cream and coffee. Nowadays, Company produce more than 60 types of ice cream. Luca`s production is based on Italian recipes, made of 100 percent natural products, fresh milk and fresh fruit. It contains no artificial additives for color or taste. Luca Offering gluten-free and diabetic options also.

appetizers and Kharcho dishes and traditional desserts. Restaurant Kharcho gives a nod to the old Georgian traditional recipes while giving them a modern twist. The cuisine there expresses the purity, freshness and simplicity associated with the regions of Georgia. Art House OPEN 12 pm – 12 am

Depending on the season, you can find rare types of ice cream, from mint, mulberry, or buckthorn, to feijoa and even the most palatable sourish blackcurrant ice creams. Luca Polare also serves exclusive coffee. This coffee travels an interesting road to reach Lucas shops. The highest quality Arabica beans are picked in South America. They are sent to a German family with a long history of coffee making. These experts roast our coffee beans based on traditional methods and send it on to Georgia only for Luca polare. Here you can also find tea, hot chocolate, blended drinks, frappés, cakes, salads and sandwiches.

PUBlIcA 18 L. Gudiashvili Str. TEL 544 44 45 44

modern twist, the dishes showcasing Georgia’s finest produce. Art House OPEN 6 pm – 12 am

l’ EclAIR DE GéNIE 12 Taktakishvili Str., Tbilisi TEL 551 99 11 55 Fb: L’ Eclair de Génie/Georgia

vINOtEl 4 E. Akhvlediani Ascent TEL 2 55 58 88 www.vinotel.ge

PUBLICA is the latest hip place in Tbilisi for delicious New American food, great cocktails and a convivial New York Americana atmosphere. Breaking with convention, the restaurant was designed to be lively, inclusive and approachable. Publica is the ideal spot for any occasion. Art House OPEN 12 pm – 2 am

BRASSERIE BUvEttE 18 L. Gudiashvili Str. TEL 544 44 45 44

Brasserie Buvette is a contemporary French restaurant, known for its chic Brasserie cuisine. The menu features updated Brasserie classics with a market-driven

Vinotel Restaurant is one of the most popular eateries in the city. The place is exceptional for its great menu with Georgian raw material prepared in a European style. Whether you’re into fine dining or want a romantic date, this is the place for you. Every evening the classical Fazioli piano and a professional Georgian live trio entertain our guests in the restaurant. There is a space for 40 inside and 30 on the spacious terrace, with heating and cooling systems, a 20-seat historic hall, Georgian wine cellar, with a professional tasting table for 20 guests hosted by Vinotel’s wine expert. A classic business hall is available for meetings and business lunches for 20 people, equipped with all modern technologies. The restaurant features several chambers each with a different style where you can sample exceptional wines with Georgian cuisine.

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Nestled on a quiet and charming street of Taktakishvili, find yourself in eclair paradise! With cozy surroundings and industrial architecture, L’Eclair de Genie is a combination of French and Georgian tastes, offering lots of classical flavors and savory tastes. Legendary Chef Christophe Adam is not just a confectioner, but also a Createur Gastronomique, combining his artistic powers to make both sweet and savory products. The character of his dishes, the simplicity and the effectivity are sure to make this a “must-visit” place.

thE kItchEN REStAURANt 14 M. Kostava Str. TEL 240 00 99 Rooms Hotels Tbilisi’s culinary vision is driven by a deep respect for the country’s national bounty, combined with a passionate interest in worldwide gastronomic trends. The contemporary dishes with a classic twist have quickly become a favorite amongst the local foodies. At ‘The Kitchen,’ every dining experience is a

Brand Wine

The Brand Wine Georgia is certainly a must-visit destination for the true wine enthusiasts, which will blaze a path for them in the world of the genuine Georgian drink. Brand Wine is distinguished with the multiplicity of wines, as well as other alcoholic drinks, including chacha and sparkling wine, mesmerizing customers of all tastes. With the stunning interior, authentic Georgian dĂŠcor and wine-related ornaments, Brand Wine creates a small world of wine and offers a fascinating experience to the customers. The founders of the shop had the details very much in mind while launching the shop. Thus, they have used traditional Georgian vessels and casks as the main decoration. Brand Wine also holds various wine-tastings, where the guests of Georgia, as well as locals, have an opportunity to familiarize themselves with the each type of drink, and find out which of them is more suitable for the Georgian holidays and the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gastronomy.

Address: 48/50 Mtskheta Str. Tbilisi Tel.: +995 577 75 55 55 www.brandwine.ge

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Exclusive Drinks Guide . . . e ic o h C y M

Giorgi Chkhaidze Owner of Wine Palace Hotel & Brand Wine Georgia

WINE PAlAcE hOtEl This hotel in the center of the town offers comfortable rooms, great staff and a unique interior. The hotel boasts a unique wine cellar where individuals and groups can enjoy tasting special wines, the taste of many of which will stay forever with each guest.

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BRAND WINE Brand Wine is a newly-opened wine shop in Tbilisi, in a quiet area at Mtskheta Str. #48/50. The uniquenes of this shop is that apart from the hundreds of Georgian wine brands on offer, it is not just a shop but much more- where tourists as well as locals can enjoy a nice hospitable evening with wine tasting in an open area with wooden conceptual tables and chairs. Brand Wine also hosts wine evenings with winemakers.

tchOtIAShvIlI vINEyARDS – kAkhA tchOtIAShvIlI Kakha Tchotiashvili is a winemaker who makes very special wines, and his method of making Qvevri wine is unique. Kakha offers tastings of his special wines in various locations from time to time. Tchotiashvili makes100% natural, high-quality elite wines.

tElEDA ORGO – WINEmAkER GOGI DAkIShvIlI Teleda is a premium Georgian wine-producing boutique winery located in Eastern Georgia, Kakheti, in the Tsinandali appellation. The winery specializes in the UNESCO-recognized 8000-year-old Georgian Qvevri winemaking tradition. All wines are handcrafted in a traditional Georgian Qvevri cellar using grapes sourced from vines at least 50-year-old. The wines are produced under the Teleda or Orgo labels.

mARANI mIlORAUlI – SANDRO mIlORAvA Milorava’s Guest House and wine cellar “Marani Milorauli” is located in Telavi, Kakheti region, 100km from Tbilisi. The hotel was established in 2000 and the cellar in 2015. Guests have an opportunity to stay at the hotel as well as taste traditional Georgian cuisine, learn the traditional Kakhetian technology of making wine in a Qvevri (pitcher), and taste and buy different Qvevri wines: Kisi, Khikhvi, Mtsvane, Saperavi, Rkatsiteli and Montepulciano..

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Georgian Beer By Gabrielle colchen

Georgia is the homeland of wine and it is easy to forget that beer-making is also an old tradition from the Caucasus. Beer-brewing was introduced to Georgia from the countries of the Old East, Ancient

Egypt, Iran and Mesopotamia. Beer-making presupposes the existence of a strong culture of wheat. Archeological discoveries show that back in the 7th century BC, Georgia was already growing wheat, especially in the mountains, while the

plains had vineyards for wine. Mountaindwellers in Georgia, living in Khevsureti, Tusheti, Pshavi, Gudamakari and Khevi, celebrated traditional occasions with beer. It was the main alcoholic beverage and played an essential role in cults and religious rituals. Beer was supposed to open a divine gateway, beyond which the Gods lived. The beer was produced from barley, which is thought to give beer its best qualities. In these regions, people make beer by boiling: once they have the proper mass of grain, they add as much water as there is flour in the tun. The mixture of barley and water needs to be constantly stirred and the heat carefully controlled. When boiling the mixture, the mass increases and needs to be moved to another pan where more can be added. When the mass reaches the desirable level, the boiling process is done and the mass is cooled and tasted. They use the hops for the dressing.

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Among traditional Georgian beers, Tushetian Aludi is the best-known. To this day, Tushetians brew Aludi, mostly for the summer religious feast called Atingenoba, a great festival of the folk arts. Atnigenoba starts on the hundredth day after Easter and continues for two weeks. This tradition cannot take place without beer, which they brew just before the beginning of the feast.

beer-making, local beer companies such as Argo and Icy have to compete with beer producers from Austria, Czech Republic, Germany, Italy, Russia, Turkey and Ukraine, which are the main countries importing to Georgia. The market of craft

beer and local brewing is slowly developing in Georgian cities and especially in Tbilisi, where craft bars open almost by the month. However, the best place to taste Georgian traditional beer is still in the mountains!

In Khevsureti, drinking beer is also a traditional rite of passage and initiation, with boys as young as fourteen encouraged to drink it as a sign of maturity and meaning he can be a member of the brewing team. Young children are also given a small mug of beer during festivities and are marked with coal on the forehead so that they are not given a second! Nowadays, there are many Georgian companies that produce beer. While many have kept the old traditions of brewing, they also produce beer by using new technologies. Despite a strong tradition of

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Best Spots for Wine Tastings in Kakheti By Samantha Guthrie

Georgia’s eastern region of Kakheti is the heart of the country’s wine production. From grassy rolling hills to dramatic snowcapped peaks, vineyards are visible in every direction. Dotted throughout the vineyards are, of course, wineries. Large factories, operated by Georgian and international companies, alternate with small family-owned businesses. Boutique wineries are becoming increasingly popular in Georgia, and the quality of homemade wine, which was once reserved for family gatherings and village parties, has dramatically increased in recent years as interest in Georgian wine grows. Whether you prefer European-style dry reds, fermented in steel barrels, or tannic amber wines, fresh from a Georgian clay qvevri, there is something for you in Kakheti. While there are dozens more wineries that could have made this list, here are some of our favorite spots for wine tastings in Kakheti. Why not hire a driver and make it a day? Drink responsibly!

PhEASANt’S tEARS

khAREBA GvIRABI Located in the village of Kvareli, the wine tunnel (gvirabi) is one of the most spectacular places in Kakheti. A sprawling complex offers an upscale restaurant, water features, forested hills, and the country’s largest wine cellar. At the enormous mouth of a long brick tunnel, visitors can select a

tasting package, which includes snacks for pairing (grape seed oil and local sulguni cheese – yum!), a short tour of the facility and explanation of Georgian wine making traditions, or even a masterclass on how to bake bread in a tone oven or make churchkhela. The tunnels contain the wine reserves of Khareba – one of the country’s largest wine manufacturers.

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This charming boutique winery is one of the country’s best. Located in Sighnaghi, it’s a popular stop when visiting the area. It was founded by an American who transplanted himself to the town and became completely immersed in the local culture, including winemaking traditions. They also have a fantastic restaurant called The Crazy Pomegranate that’s worth a try!

chAtEAU BUERA Buera is a new, ultra-luxe restaurant and bar located on Lopota Lake in Kakheti. It is

part of the Lopota Lake complex, adding an even more exclusive option to the already upscale resort. Buera boasts unique architecture, with a dramatic turret its focal point. Inside, it’s all blacks, grays, and silvers, creating a sultry, smoky vibe, perfect for the wine tastings for which the chateau was designed. Buera is best visited by guests of Lopota Lake Resort and Spa, who can taste all the wines the famous Kakheti region offers, and then stumble back to their hotel beds, but travelers are also welcome to stop by for a glass.

ShIlDA

directly in the vineyard. Shilda is within the kindzmarauli zone, just a couple of kilometers away from the eponymous village, so make sure to taste the sweet red while you’re there!

and wine making facilities, have lunch in the cozy dining room with fireplace, and taste some of the area’s best European style wines. The hotel on site is chic and elegant and features an outdoor pool.

mOSmIERI

chAtEAU mERE

Mosmieri is a new wine tourism complex near the city of Telavi. The complex includes a large restaurant and bar that seats 250 persons, facilities for masterclasses (including tone bread baking), a courtyard, a large lounge terrace, a wine store with tasting area, and a hotel with 32 rooms and an outdoor swimming pool. You can climb to the top of the charming tower to get beautiful views of the snow-capped mountains and the Telavi skyline.

Located just outside the village of Tsinandali, Chateu Mere is a glamorous hotel and winery that features an outdoor pool and modern hotel with traditional charm. Visitors can learn about traditional wine-making styles, taste house wines, crush grapes in a traditional wood stomping trough, and even get a bottle of wine with a personalized label!

chAtEAU mUkhRANI

SchUchmANN

Shilda is a small vineyard and wine factory just outside Kvareli. The intimate vibe lets guests receive the royal treatment. The restaurant is a tastefully decorated, beautiful glass rectangle that puts diners

Schuchmann has several iterations throughout Georgia, but at their winery near Telavi, visitors can tour the vineyards

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Chateau Mukhrani is winery and hotel on the plains of Kakheti, located less than an hour from Tbilisi. The large white castle is the ancestral home of the Mukhranis – a branch of the Georgian royal family. It is a popular wedding venue, so if you stop for a tasting, you might run into a bride and groom!

Listing: Beer Pubs vARAzI BEER GARDEN

tAGlAURA Near Vakhushti Bagrationi Bridge (+995) 555 20 77 00

1 Varaziskhevi Str. (+995) 593 90 80 10

BlAck DOG BAR 33 L. Asatiani Str. (+995) 230 60 64

GOlDEN mUG

75 A. Beliashvili Str. (+995) 577 66 00 01

7 Virsaladze Str. (+995) 260 13 31

Bf tBIlISI 38a I. Abashidze Str. (+995) 577 13 07 07

cRAftED BAR 38 Agmashenebeli Ave. (+995) 296 48 92

BEER mARkEt kROmBAchER 3 D. Gamrekeli Str., 4 Berdzenishvili Str., 1 Parnavaz Mepe Str. (+995) 577 11 40 11

9 mtA 10 G. Tabidze Str. (+995) 599 45 99 94

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BEER SQUARE 99 A. Beliashvili Str. (+995) 577 50 33 05

News mEIStER BRAU The Meister Brau (‘Beer Master’) winery has introduced eight varieties of wine especially for tourists who love Georgian wine. Meister Brau was launched four years ago and produces whisky, beer, fruit brandy and bottle-fermented beer. Founder Gocha Matcharadze claims that the company aims to present both wine and beer-making technologies, with the materials for beer imported from Germany. This year, the company started producing beer using technology that is totally new in Georgia.

mOtSvI ltD 60 tons of blueberries are to be exported from Georgia this summer. Motsvi Ltd, the producer company of blueberries, plans to distribute its products to the EU and Eastern countries by truck. Founder Zviad Mirianashvili states that only conjectural export countries are known so far, and further details are yet to be clarified. It has already been announced that along with Mostvi Ltd, three other companies plan to get involved in the process of blueberry export, all Ozurgeti-based (Guria): ‘Qartuli Motsvi’ (Georgian Blueberry), ‘Lurji Veli’ (Blue Meadow) and ‘GeoBerry’.

DINO New energy has come to the drinks market with Georgian brand DINO now to be spotted at retail chains. The product is produced by the Georgian Beer Company, the only enterprise in the South Caucasus to offer a wide assortment of non-alcoholic and low alcohol drinks. The company plans to expand the DINO line by adding other flavors. The creators of the DINO energy drink state that it is distinguished for a unique taste. Dino is the second energy drink in the portfolio of JSC Georgian Beer Company after ‘Wilder.’

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Wine Route in Georgia Drive out into the regions and you’ll be sure to see the brown road signs marking the way to the nearest Wine Route features- from small family holdings to large Chateaux; don’t miss out on your chance to delve deeper into Georgia’s 8,000 year tradition of winemaking.

chAtEAU zEGAANI 1 Al. Chavchavadze Str, Zegaani TEL 210 30 44, 595 225 552 E-mail: info@chateau-zegaani.com Online Shop: www.chateau-zegaani.com

pool, horses, dogs, music, a billiards room, wine cellar, and tone oven.

tElIANI vAllEy WINIvERIA châtEAU mERE Vardisubani village, Telavi TEL 595 99 03 99, 595 99 03 90, 595 99 03 94 A wine cellar, restaurant and hotel, Château Mere is very popular in Georgia and wine cellar Winiveria is the part of the unified concept. This is one of the best small wine cellars in Georgia, producing high-quality wines: Rkatsiteli, Kindzmarauli, Kisi, Khikhvi and Mtsvane Kakhuri. Tourists can pick and press grapes, taste wine, make Churchkhela, barbeque meat, make Khinkali, and bake bread in a ‘tone’ oven. Sightseeing visits around Kakheti are also available. The hotel also offers a

3 Tbilisi Highway, Telavi TEL 577 50 02 57 One of Georgia’s largest wine producers, Teliani Valley’s wine factory is located along the right-hand side of the main road to Telavi. The factory is equipped with everything needed to welcome guests -

from modern machinery to a traditional wine cellar, tasting hall and a small hotel. The company produces PDO wines: Tsinandali, Manavi, Mukuzani, Khvanchkara, Kindzmarauli, Tvishi, etc. as well as red, pink and white table wines, traditional Qvevri wines, chacha (Georgian grappa) and brandy. Various types of tours are available throughout the year. You can visit the factory and taste five types of wine at any time of the year, and in autumn, guests have the opportunity to participate in the harvest.

SchUchmANN WINES GEORGIA Kisiskhevi village, Telavi TEL 593 48 73 74

Schuchmann Wines Georgia is located in the village of Kisiskhevi, on a hill 1.5 km from the main road. The company owns a hotel and a wine cellar built to resemble a medieval castle and featuring a large

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veranda and tasting and conference rooms. A traditional wine cellar, equipped with Qvevri, stands next to a modern wine factory. This company is one of the country’s most experienced and successful in terms of wine tourism. It was founded by a German wine enthusiast infatuated with Georgia, Mr. Schuchmann, who brought together one convenient infrastructure: the wine cellar, restaurant and hotel. Schuchmann Wines produces high-class white and red wines according to Kathetian and European methods.

kINDzmARAUlI WINE cEllAR Kvareli TEL 249 74 77

Kindzmarauli Wine Cellar is located in the heart of extensive vineyards in the micro-zone of famous Kindzmarauli. The factory was built in 2003 and is one of the leading companies, equipped with the state-of-the-art technologies where visitors can see the production process, harvest area planted with more than 420 ancient Georgian grape varieties, taste both new and aged wines, and visit a Chacha distillery plant. Kindzmarauli Wine Cellar’s assortment includes 23 brands of premium quality wine, of which three - red dry ‘Kakheti Kingdom,’ dry white Kakheti Kingdom and red naturally semi-sweet ‘Kindzmarauli Original’ are the exclusive brands of the company.

tWINS WINE hOUSE Napareuli village, Telavi TEL 2424042, 551 74 74 74

Twin brothers Gamtkitsulashvili founded “Twins Wine House” in 1997 on the basis of their family-run wine cellar, hotel and restaurant. The company produces several varieties of wine – Rkatsiteli, Kakhuri Mtsvane and Saperavi according to the traditional Kakhetian method – in Qvevri. They offer a variety of services to their visitors including wine tours and museum excursions. Guests can visit the old wine cellar and new production, the Qvevri and wine museum, take part in grape picking during harvest, attend the grape pressing process in the 18th century winepress, see the process of vodka distillation from Chacha, bake bread in a ’tone’ oven, make Churchkhela and taste wines directly from Qvevri: red wine – “Sun of Qvevri” Saperavi and amber wine – “Sun of Qvevri” European.

châtEAU mUkhRANI Mukhrani village, Mtskheta TEL 595 99 13 14/16 Château Mukhrani is located 25 minutes’ drive from Tbilisi and occupies the estate of Prince Mukhran-Batoni’s Palace. Basic sightseeing of the palace and its cellars, with a main tunnel connecting the palace to the winery. The cellars of Mukhrani Palace have been completely renovated.

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The Tourism Department of Château Mukhrani offers diverse wine tours to guests – from walking in the vineyards to visiting the historical palace of MukhranBatoni and modern winery. Château Mukhrani produces classic white, rosé, red and fortified wines as well as Chacha from following varieties: Goruli Mtsvane, Chinuri, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Rkatsiteli, Muscat, Tavkveri, Shavkapito, Saperavi and Cabernet.

WINE cEllAR lAGvINARI Bakurtsikhe village, Gurjaani TEL 577 54 60 06 This wine cellar is located in the village of Bakurtsikhe and has been producing wine since 2011 by local traditional method in Qvevri from different grape varieties, including grapes from Kartli and western Georgia - Tsitska, Tsolikouri, Krakhuna, Aladasturi, Otskhanuri Sapere, Goruli Mtsvane, Chinuri, Rkatsiteli and Saperavi. Saperavi and Rkatsiteli vineyards are grown approximately two kilometers from the wine cellar over 4 ha of land. A beautiful view of the Alazani Valley and the Greater Caucasus Mountain range can be enjoyed from the wine cellar. Traditional Georgian dishes are available on advance request.

WINE cEllAR kAkhURI 1 Tbilisi Highway, Telavi TEL 599 10 70 35 Kakhuri is located on the main road of Telavi on a territory housing a demonstration vineyard, a wine-tasting room and an ethnographic corner. Visitors will be able to participate in the grape harvest, bake bread, and make wine and Churchkhela. The company produces several varieties of PDO and table wines: Tsinandali, Mukuzani, Kindzmarauli, Saperavi, Rkatsiteli, Mtsvane Kakhetian, etc., as well as Chacha.

khAREBA Kvareli TEL 293 50 73, 599 80 85 39

Gvirabi (which means tunnel in English) is carved in the rock of the Caucasus Mountain Range. The tunnel was opened in 1962 for the World Wine Congress. In the beginning, it belonged to the government and wine from the entire Kakheti region was stored here. Nowadays, it is the Winery Khareba cellar, used to age wine. The constant temperature - 12-14 degrees, with around 70% humidity all year round, creates the ideal, natural conditions for wine to age in French oak barrels, as well as to store bottled wines for extended periods.

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The tunnel consists of two main parallel tunnels and 13 smaller perpendicular ones. The total length of the entire tunnel is 7.7 km. The entrances to the long parallel tunnels have their own functions: the first is for tourists and is used for wine tours, while the second belongs to the industrial part, where the company stores and ages its finest wines in French oak barrels and steel tanks. In 2011, special tour facilities were created around the wine tunnel: a big recreational park, which includes the river and old Qvevries, as well as a Georgian water mill, traditional Georgian bakery Tone, a Chacha (grappa) distilling facility, a traditional Georgian marani (wine cellar) with the Satsnakheli (Georgian traditional wooden grape press) and other cultural sites. The tourism complex also includes wine tasting for more than 30 varieties of the best wines produced by Winery Khareba, as well as many other activities tourists can take part in: distilling Chacha, baking Georgian bread, making Chuchkhela, grilling meat (Georgian barbeque), and harvesting and pressing grapes in the Satsnakheli.

AlAvERDI mONAStERy Alaverdi village, Akhmeta TEL 596 10 04 34

The wine cellar of Alaverdi Monastery is one of Kakheti’s most distinctive cellars.

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Located within the monastery territory, on the site of the historical wine cellar (8th-10th centuries), it was recently rebuilt. The cellar includes a classical wine hall, a large 6th century Qvevri warehouse, an ethnographic corner, a tasting room, and a souvenir shop. Traditional white and red Qvevri wines produced in the Alaverdi Monastery wine cellar include Rkatsiteli, Mtsvane Kakhuri, Kisi, Khikhvi, Saperavi and Chacha.

vINOtEl 4 E. Akhvlediani Ascent, Tbilisi TEL 2 55 58 88 www.vinotel.ge

Wine-curious visitors can order a special wine tasting from Vinotel’s wine expert, who will give you a tour of their in-house redbrick wine cellar and a solid introduction to the Georgian wine culture. The historical arched, brick wine cellar offers an exceptional selection of the best Georgian wines, including natural wines from small exclusive artisan wineries and industry leaders. Wines are kept at optimum conditions thanks to the natural properties of the cellar, combined with the recently added cutting-edge German technology. “Dear Beno, on behalf of the group of Masters of Wine who visited Georgia, and for myself, I’d like to extend my deepest gratitude for the kindness…” Lisa Granik, Master of Wine

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Exclusive Tips for Shopping Lovers

. . . e c i o h C y M

Teona Tavartkiladze Designer, Founder at Beauty and the Box

PIERRO lE fOU Pierro Le Fou on Abashidze Street is one of my favorite shops in Tbilisi. It is not only a shop, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a luxury boutique. Pierro Le Fou is famous for various chic brands, such as Maison Margiela, Issey Miyake, and Rick Owens. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll also find selected vintage clothes, T-shirts, special cameras and original items for your house.

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BREAthlESS The Breathless concept shop at Grato Passage (Kostava street) is another favorite, where you can find top brands and new collections of a famous designers. You’ll find clothes for women and men together with accessories.

fAShION hOUSE Fashion House is a multi-brand store of luxury clothing and accessories. At Fashion House you can find clothes and accessories of Balenciaga, Saint Laurent, Givenchy, Lanvin, Marni, Celine, Stella Mccartney, Chloe, Ann Demeulemeester, Dior and more.

h&m H&M offers fashion and quality at the best price. There you can find wide range of clothing, with everything from basics to the latest fashion trends.

NEW tREND New Trend at Galleria Tbilisi is another favorite shopping spot full of famous designers works such as ARMANI EXCHANGE, EMPORIO ARMANI, DSQUARED2, Max-Mara, PAUL SMITH, COMME des GARÇONS, Vivetta by Vivetta Ponti and others.

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Souvenir & Sweet Shops in Tbilisi Buying the souvenirs of the country you’re visiting is part of embracing the local culture. While visiting Tbilisi, it’s crucial to know where to buy the right souvenirs and sweets, so Where.ge has put together a few of the best options.

Churchkhela – the unique “Georgian snickers”! 34 Chavchavdze Ave.; 2/4 Rustaveli Ave. (+995) 32 214 90 44 Monday - Sunday 11 AM – 9 PM

mAIDAN BAzAAR

Located in the heart of Old Tbilisi, Maidan Bazaar offers all a tourist can wish for in a souvenir: postcards, magnets, wine, brandy, handmade dolls and toys, t-shirts, national hats and costumes, Georgianthemed accessories and bags, books, pictures and paintings… The historical location of the bazaar adds to the advantages of the shopping experience. They offer a variety of choice and what’s more – handicrafts!

BADAGI

Mediathek is 15 GEL annually. While it’s a great place to spend or kill time, they also have a beautiful souvenir shop right in the corner. In Mediathek Tbilisi you can read a book, talk to a friend or two, drink a cup of coffee and buy a Georgian souvenir – could things get better? 76 Chavchavadze Str. (+995) 32 224 10 24

NUGBARI

37 Chavchavadze Str., 2 Miminoshvili Str., 25 Peking Str., Tbilisi National Airport (+995) 597 11 10 22 Monday – Sunday 10/11 AM – 21/22 PM (depending on the location)

7 Gorgasali Square (+995) 514 41 91 91 Monday – Sunday, 10 AM – 10 PM

mEDIAthEk tBIlISI Located in Vake, arguably the district where the most fashionable Tbilisians reside, Mediathek Tbilisi – a modern library – offers a calm and relaxing design for all generations. The pass for the

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Another candy shop – more famous in the business, offering a wider selection of Georgian Churchkhela. Prices range a little higher, but so does the quality of the product. However, taste is a very personal thing and you should definitely try both Badagi and Nugbari.

This candy company founded in 2015, the title of which would be translated into English as “delicious sweets”, has a slogan: Famous Georgian Delicatessens! And they don’t lie, since Nugbari produces and sells different kinds of

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News cNIck The renowned Smart Ring (CNICK), created by young Georgian start-uppers, is already well-known here. Founder David Kvitsiani recently announced that smart ring consumers will soon be able to make payments through POS terminals and also to use it on transport. The new function is to be added to the innovative product by the end of the year. The aim is to integrate as many cards as possible into one device for the comfort of the client. The ring is available on Amazon for $60-70. Interest is high both in Georgia and abroad. CNICK was the winner of a contest for high-tech business ideas at Startup Georgia in 2017.

SUPER AtlAS Georgian fashion has added a new name to its list: Super Atlas. Founder Sofo Natsvaladze, used a grant from the Produce in Georgia program last year to start to produce female and male clothing which is now exported to global brands and international designers, in accordance with specific models and materials. Super Atlas can already be seen on the French, Polish and Italian markets. There is also a fashion line, the models of which are sent to fashion weeks in different countries. Follow the Entrepreneur Georgia Instagram page to get the latest updates from Georgian Entrepreneurs. For doing business with Georgian Entrepreneurs, write us on business@entrepreneur.ge

lUlUlEmON

Address: 13 Pavle Aslanidi St, Andria Afakidze St Tbilisi Tel: 558 67 48 98

Lululemon â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a Canadian athletic apparel company, was recently launched on the Georgian market and is ready to offer a great variety of products to the local clientele.

Founded in 1998, Lululemon has been producing high-quality yoga, running, training and swimming belongings for women and men.

At the Georgian branch of the brand, you can purchase the most comfortable, colorful and trendy sports clothing, guaranteed to make training at the gym or yoga center easier, more entertaining and more motivating.

Where to ‘Thrift’ in Tbilisi By lucy Papachristou During the Soviet period, people would do just about anything to get their hands on a pair of Levi’s. The “jeans fever” began around 1957, when Moscow hosted the 6th World Festival of Youth and Students, bringing 34,000 people from 130 countries to the Soviet capital. With them, came jeans. Blue jeans were more than just pants: the epitome of American-style capitalism, they became a symbol for the freedom lacking under Soviet rule. People saved up for months just to get a pair, and some even faced prison for trafficking them in. (They were never banned outright, but it was nearly impossible to import anything from the West.) These days, in post-Soviet Tbilisi, jeans are old news. But many countries across the former Soviet Union are experiencing a creative fashion boom, “hungry for fresh, strange and unfamiliar images to commodify,” as one culture journal put it. Georgian designers are making waves, some on the global stage, like Vetements, a clothing and footwear collective and brand founded by the Georgian designer Demna Gvasalia, who is now also the creative director of the Spanish luxury fashion house Balenciaga.

the level of trendiness then for the dominant color of the clothing you see there: black. Still, many young Georgian cannot afford international brands, or even many of the local ones. But as in the United States and many parts of Europe, a second-hand, thrift shop culture is also blossoming here. Practically everywhere you walk in Tbilisi—and especially in the underpasses—there is someone selling used clothes. Many of the stores have clothes heaped on tables, entirely unsorted and unpriced. But for those who truly love to thrift, there is no greater challenge—and no greater thrill—than spending an afternoon wading through a clothes pile looking for that one, amazing gem. The sheer number of second-hand stores in Tbilisi can oftentimes be overwhelming, and it’s easy to waste valuable time stopping in at all of them. The following is a short list to help guide the intrepid thrift shopper along their way.

DAy Off RE-USE StORE

BEAtNIk

The change is clearly evident on Tbilisi’s streets. Scrolling through their Instagram feeds, young people are soaking up global fashion trends. Central Tbilisi could sometimes be mistaken for Paris, if not for

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Located in the heart of Vake on Irakli Abashidze Street, Beatnik doesn’t look too different than a thrift store you would find in, say, London or Austin, Texas. A little more upscale than the average Tbilisi second-hand store, the clothes hang neatly on racks—you won’t have trouble finding anything here, and no “digging” is required. The store, which opened last year, sells clothes for both men and women, and has somewhat of a sporty vibe: American footballs sit on ledges above the clothes racks, and the store usually carries lots of sports jerseys and jackets. Most of the clothes have a 70s, 80s, or 90s feel, and there are many brand items from the likes of Carhartt, Adidas and Nike. To get a good sense of Tbilisi youth subculture, Beatnik is a great place to start.

Day Off is another place straight from the heart of Tbilisi hipsterdom. A self-described “conceptual eco-friendly second-hand store,” Day Off gets a lot of traction from

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its substantial internet presence. The store’s Instagram page has over 7,000 followers and nearly 800 posts to date, and every few days they post professional photos of models wearing their clothes, slowly building up a large fan base. There isn’t much black here, though: most of the clothes are bright, vibrant colors, orange, yellow, soft pastels. While the prices at Day Off are slightly above average, the quality and the style make it worth it.

DIDUBE

The Didube clothes market has just about any type of clothing a person could want, and the quantity of stuff here could probably clothe all of Tbilisi. Each stall in the vast maze of the market has racks upon racks of blue jeans, pants, shirts, undergarments, sweaters, coats, shoes and more. It can be overwhelming at times, but if you go in with a specific item in mind—size 30 light-wash blue Levi’s, for example—the stall owners can probably help you find it. The style of clothes here, though, gears more toward the everyman; you probably won’t find a pastel raincoat here, like you could at Day Off. But for basics, and unexpected gems, Didube is a great bet. Don’t be shy of bargaining here, either.

either, and on a hot summer’s day there’s probably nowhere worse to spend your time in Tbilisi. The Station Square market is fairly similar to the one at Didube, but the former is probably more likely to carry a wide variety of sizes. Navigating the throngs of people pushing past one another and haggling with stall owners can be a bit of a headache, but the potential finds—and the prices—make up for that. And if something doesn’t fit you just right, there are tailoring shops everywhere in Tbilisi that can fix your clothes for a few dollars.

thEm & thEIRS

StAtION SQUARE One of the greatest joys of thrifting is “the hunt,” and if you’re a thrifter who likes to dig, Beatnik and Day Off might not be for you. There are countless small stores scattered around Tbilisi to check out, but they’ll have a limited supply and can carry clothes of questionable quality. But with a whole afternoon free and a determined attitude in hand, Didube is one of the best places to head. Didube is one of the central bus stations in Tbilisi, from which hundreds of buses and marshrutkas (yellow mini-buses) leave each day to all corners of the country and beyond, but the commotion of the bus station is hardly a match for the hubbub of Didube’s markets. While the food market is definitely worth checking out, it’s the clothes market that can really occupy you for hours.

No matter where you are in the world, train and bus stations seem always to attract big markets. Like Didube, the underground rabbit warren that is the Station Square clothes market, located just beneath the city’s central rail station, is no exception. If you’re trying to use the underpass here to cross the street, better just to dash across the street: you may get lost underground for hours. The market is definitely not for the claustrophia-prone,

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Them & Theirs is a small shop tucked away in the hills of Mtatsminda. You won’t find any sections labelled “men’s” and “women’s” here: the store has done away with gendering its clothing entirely. Meko and her partner Kate started the store out of an old garage, which they filled with furniture, clothing and art culled from flea markets in Tbilisi, New York—where Kate currently lives—and beyond. Even if the collection is outside your price range, Them & Theirs, a prime example of Tbilisi’s globally-focused creativity, is worth a visit.

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Overlooked Places to Buy Art in Tbilisi By lucy Papachristou

In recent years, Georgia and its capital city of Tbilisi have made appearances on many top travel destination lists, including in The Guardian and Forbes, who claimed in 2018 that Berlin was “out” and Tbilisi was “in.” Tbilisi has a reputation as an artistic city, and as the younger, post-Soviet generation comes of age, a new era of creativity is dawning. Many galleries have been listed over and over in “best-of” lists for tourists and art-lovers, but in truth, the city is overflowing with galleries, and more are opening their doors all the time. Here are a few of those places that you won’t find on other lists: smaller, family-own galleries tucked away on side streets, and some newly-opened ones just starting to make big waves.

vERE GAllERy If you ask most Tbilisians to name the most artistic district of the city, the place most artists call home, they’ll probably answer Mtatsminda or Sololaki. And they wouldn’t be entirely wrong; those neighborhoods, riddled with little shops selling fresh produce, cheese and bread, second-hand clothing stores, and cozy cafes, are indeed home to many artists and their studios. The classic, Old Tbilisi feel of the wooden balconies, narrow, dusty streets, and crumbling three-story buildings appeals to the artist in all of us.

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Art, too, though, has a place in Vake, a quiet, leafy neighborhood that has the reputation of being somewhat “posh” or “bourgeois.” Just off busy Petre Melikishvili Street, the Vere Gallery is technically in Vera, but is just over the border from Vake proper. The gallery was started in 2002 by a husband and wife team, who still own and operate the business. The couple buys and sells a mix of classical and contemporary Georgian art. This February they hosted an exhibition of the Georgian-born Polish painter Henryk Hryniewski, who helped found the Georgian Academy of Fine Arts, which became the Tbilisi State Academy of Arts, and was killed in 1937 during Stalin’s Great Purge. The gallery showed 28 of Hryniewski’s paintings, some of which the Georgian National Museum is trying to acquire. Vere Gallery also hosts works by the minimalist Gia Gugushvili, the actor and painter Janri Lolashvili and several

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paintings by Keti Davlianidze, who recently had an exhibition at the gallery of her large-scale paintings of Abkhazia. Prices for individual pieces range from 100 GEL to 40,000 GEL. In addition to its art space, Vere Gallery manufactures frames in a shop across the street that has been in operation for some 70 years.

ARt GAllERy vAkE A fifteen-minute walk west of Vere Gallery is Art Gallery Vake, a small shop tucked in the corner of a building on leafy Irakli Abashidze Street. The gallery was founded in 2015 by Eka Reisner, a

Georgian woman who married a German. Reisner curates her gallery based on her personal taste, and there is a great variety of paintings, sculptures, Tiffany glass designs, handmade masks and jewelry filling every surface and wall of the 35-square-meter space. Reisner lived in Germany for ten years, and in the past has held exhibitions of German artists in Georgia. The space, which hosts two exhibitions per month, currently has pieces by painters George Areshidze and Maka Zedelashvili, among others. Prices range from 100 GEL to 10,000 GEL.

DRy BRIDGE mARkEt

Dry Bridge Market may not seem like an obvious place to go to pick up art, but among the battered guitars, electrical parts, spigots, rock and roll records, and Soviet canteens, military pins and tchotchkes, there are plenty of artistic gems to be found. More than a few vendors sell handmade bags and small oil paintings. The Dry Bridge Market is probably not the best place to buy a high quality painting, but there are a few interesting pieces to be found if you don’t mind wading through the crowds and hawkers for an hour or so.

GAllERy 27 While Gallery 27 is in no way “off the beaten path,” it does have more of a reputation as a souvenir or craft store, not an art gallery. But if you’re a traveller with a small suitcase or not looking to spend a great deal of money, Gallery 27, a charming space located on a narrow street in Sololaki at the foot of the Kartlis Deda (Mother Georgia) monument, is a good place to head to. The gallery is housed in one of the many beautiful, old wooden homes that make up the neighborhood’s landscape. A striking multicolored stained glass window encloses the staircase up to the gallery, and a charming garden lies below. Gallery 27 has more of the feel of a store than an art gallery, and there are dozens of unique items, most of them modestly priced, for sale: handmade bags, tapestries, hats, mittens, jewelry, notebooks, felt toys, ceramics, traditional woodworks, and other craft items abound. It’s the perfect place to pick up a Georgian-made craft product, either to bring home or to gift to someone as a souvenir of Georgia.

UNtItlED GAllERy One of the most exciting new galleries in Tbilisi is Untitled Gallery, which opened only this March. Located in a beautiful,

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crumbling building in the heart of Sololaki, home of many young up-and-coming artists, Untitled has already established itself as a repository and incubator of dynamic works of art. The gallery specializes in emerging and established contemporary artists from South Caucasus, and hopes to create a pan-Caucasian community of creatives. The gallery’s opening show included a series of 20-30 photographs by artists from all over the Caucasus, including parts of the Armenian Karen Khachaturov’s series on his grandfather after the latter was diagnosed with bladder cancer in 2017. (Khachaturov’s works will be shown in the International Center for Photography’s “Projected” series in New York City.) Also on display were large, brightly-colored paintings by Salomeya Bauer, who is from Tbilisi.

Many of the works are on sale for under 500 GEL, but even if you are not inclined to purchase anything, stopping in at the gallery is always a pleasure: admiring the elegant staircase on the way up, the interesting works housed inside, and gazing out onto the rooftops of Sololaki from the balcony.

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New Brands to Grab! Georgia is already hot on the world’s fashion scene and is a growing hot-bed of eager new designers. Alongside that is the desire of the global community to cash-in on the Georgian’s love of all things fashionable. Check out some of the new design stores below.

lUlUlEmON

Lululemon – a Canadian athletic apparel company, was recently launched on the Georgian market and is ready to offer a great variety of products to the local clientele. Founded in 1998, Lululemon has been producing high-quality yoga, running, training and swimming belongings for women and men.

kAtAmURA

Georgian designers, offering clothes, shoes and accessories. Knowledgeable staff are on-hand to offer advice and to answer customers’ questions about everything from fabric to the brand itself. Find it in Galleria Mall, Liberty (Freedom) Square.

cORtEX

Most of the works are made out of wood. The basic materials are lime (basswood) and boxwood. Each item is accompanied with a unique label, with a description of the species, whether that be an adornment, a souvenir, applicable artwork or a hand-painted chapbook / art book.

chAtSmA A newly-opened concept store, Chatsma focuses on the prime works of select

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Katamura is a trademark of handmade objects and accessories with an overarching theme of Georgian wildlife; featuring descriptions of the species of mammals, birds, amphibians, reptiles and insects.

Cortex makes handmade comfortable Georgian leather sneakers in various styles and colors. The company was conceived as a symbol of independence, courage, purpose and determination, and the shoes give wearers just that! Shop online here: https://cortex.ge/en/shop/

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Their goal, they say “is the promotion, study and creative interpretation of Georgian fauna.” They also “attempt to find and develop new forms in Georgian craftsmanship of souvenirs, adornments and painting.” (+995) 598 30 09 97

Tbilisi

Batumi

Parnavaz Mepe Ave. 1 Gorgiladze Str. - 88 Qavtaradze Str. - 1 Chavchavadze Str.- 3 Chavchavadze Str.- 34 Rustaveli Ave. - 2/4

Georgian Literature in English & Where to Buy it in Tbilisi By lisa maier

Since 2016, the Georgian scripts are inscribed as UNESCO Intangible Heritage of Humanity. Even though the letters are admired all over the world for their beauty, few people besides Georgians can read them. Luckily, since the 2018 Frankfurt Book Fair, more and more works are being translated, putting Georgian works onto the international literature scene. Georgia has a 1,500-year-old literary tradition starting from the 5th century, and boasts a lot of talented writers and well-written works. Check out some of them below which can be found in English.

AvElUm By OtAR chIlADzE

GRANDmA, RAy AND AmERIcA By mARIAm BEkAURI

in 2012. It speaks about the biggest dilemma of her generation, which constantly shifts between ideals, expectations and traditions, which are so hard to abandon. Everyone who has ever settled in a new country will find himself in the same jungle of expectation, frustration, realities and excitement.

JOURNEy tO kARABAkh By AkA mORchIlADzE

Avelum is a very personal work of the famous Georgian writer, Otar Chiladze. His main source for the book was one of his old notebooks and deals with the Soviet censorship, which limited his creativity in writing. The book was the first work after the collapse of the Soviet Union where he could express himself freely. The plot centers on a love affair between a western girl and Soviet Union writer, who, being an extreme idealist, damages irreparably every person around him.

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Mariam Bekauri, belonging to a wave of young Georgian authors, published her debut novel `Grandma, Ray and AmericaÂ´

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Aka Morchiladze is a Georgian writer and literary historian who has authored some of the best-selling prose of postSoviet Georgian literary fiction. Morchiladze is one of the main pioneers in the reorientation of Georgian literature towards Western influences. His best known and even filmed novel `Journey to Karabakh´ has been a best-seller ever since it appeared. The book is about two Georgian youngsters traveling to Karabakh on a mission to buy drugs. The book deals with the main subject of finding and defining freedom. A must-read for all travelers.

WhERE tO BUy? Are you inspired to get one of these books but don´t know where to get them in English? Check here first:

PROSPERO’S BOOkStORE This two-floor bookstore offers a widerange of literature in foreign languages, like English, Russian, German and Spanish. Both classic and movie tie-in books can be found in this bookstore at a reasonable price.

mIcROScOPE By mAIA SARIShvIlI

Maia Sarishvili is one of the most prominent women writers in Georgia. Besides having four children and teaching at a primary school, she kept writing poems which are internationally recognized. She has brought a new sound into Georgian literature that displays a realistic and materialistic touch, in combination with a strong female voice. The poetry collection `Microscope´ is a compilation of about 60 poems on a variety of topics. The poems all evolve from one common emotion and her language is characterized through short and evocative verses that can express everything in one breath.

22 Chavchavadze Ave., Tbilisi Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ Parnassus.books Prospero’s is more than just a bookstore. Its beautiful yard offers an oasis of tranquility that lets you forget about the all-time busy Rustaveli Avenue, which it is tucked away from. The store offers a variety of books of all genres and styles. When you’re done book-shopping, sit in the yard, sip a coffee and lose yourself in the first pages of your new read.

BIBlUS GAllERy

34 Rustaveli Ave., Tbilisi Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ prosperosbooks

PARNASSUS

Biblus bookstores can be found all over the city of Tbilisi. The one on Chavchavadze Avenue offers a wide range of books not only in English, but also in Russian and other languages. 7 Chavchavadze Ave., Tbilisi Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ biblusi13/

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Where to Buy Properties in Georgia mAcRO cONStRUctION Complex area: Digomi Edu-Experimental Agriculture; (next to Olimpic facilities), Tbilisi TEL 200 10 10

Real Palace company was founded in 2011. It has the necessary resources and experience for the implementation of construction works, from project development to commissioning. It is also an importer of high-quality building materials, guaranteeing a high-quality and affordable apartment.

DUX DDEvElOPmENt 23 Paliashvili Str. TEL 250 00 32 Built to the highest standards in European residential developments, MAQRO Constructionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Green Diamond complex on the edge of Georgiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s historic capital Tbilisi combines both luxury and affordability for the discerning homeowner, or indeed investor.

PREmIUm BAtUmI 36 M. Abashidze Str., Batumi TEL 568 33 00 00

Premium Batumi is a construction development company operating in Batumi. We offer exclusive, premium class residential hotel type apartments.

REAl PAlAcE 18 Pirosmani Str., Batumi TEL 514 67 47 47

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WhItE SAIlS

3 Lech and Maria Kaczynski Str. TEL 598 05 00 00 WHITE SAILS is a unique multifunctional complex with outstanding design and architecture. The complex is distinguished by an unbeatable location on the seaside in Batumi New Boulevard and offers modern, diverse and well-developed infrastructure. The project includes two high-class hotels and five 16, 18 and 20-storey aparthotels and is one of the biggest investments in Georgia.

EmERAlD GROUP 85 Paliashvili Str. TEL 555 20 00 02 Dux Development is the subsidiary of the Azeri Investment Company - ORI Group and is based on the experience of partners who have successfully implemented multiple development projects in the territory of Azerbaijan since 2007. The mission of Dux Development is to implement development projects across the country and establish new standards in the field of construction, based on the requirements of the client and investor. Over the years, Dux Development has established partnerships with companies representing leading European brands in the field of construction materials. In order to meet the right standards and achieve top quality, the Company employees are regularly trained and introduced to new trends in the field.

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Emerald Group is a Georgian investment development company that builds residential apartments, hotels and multifunctional complexes. The company is established by a professional team that has excellent experience in investment development, building houses where people can live in an aesthetically pleasing, comfortable and safe environment. Emerald Group aims to become a leader in the Georgian development market by introducing an entirely new standard of living, where projects are distinguished by original architecture and elegant design.

SUBSCRIBE!

1 YEAR SUBSCRIPTION - 60 GEL (6 ISSUES) Money Back Guarantee!  any@where.ge

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Listing: Where to Buy Wine BRAND WINE 48/50 Mtskheta Str. TEL 577 75 55 55

while launching the shop, and used traditional Georgian vessels and casks as the main decoration.

RESERvE 3, 9 April Str., Tbilisi TEL 599 31 33 44

Brand Wine also hosts various wine-tastings, where guests as well as locals have an opportunity to familiarize themselves with each type of drink and find out which is more suitable for each Georgian holidays and various dishes of the country’s delicious cuisine.

Wine is one of the biggest parts of Georgian culture. Well aware of this fact, Georgian businessmen and entrepreneurs operating in the country’s tourism industry, have been using the concept of wine to launch various wine shops, wine bars, and wine hotels. The rivalry is incredibly high in this respect and it may be difficult to choose the right place in which to start your wine journey. The Brand Wine shop should certainly be top of your list: a must-visit destination for true wine enthusiasts, opening up a path forward in the world of the genuine Georgian beverage. Brand Wine is distinguished for its multiplicity of wines, as well as other alcoholic drinks, including chacha and sparkling wine, mesmerizing customers of all tastes. With a stunning interior, authentic Georgian décor and wine-related ornaments, Brand Wine creates a small world of wine and offers a fascinating experience to customers. The founders of the shop had details very much in mind

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vINOtEl 4 E. Akhvlediani Ascent, Tbilisi TEL 2 55 58 88 www.vinotel.ge

A new wine shop behind Parliament building offering more than 300 names of wines from small producers. Taste 48 wines and beverages stored at a constant temperature. Professional consultants will help you choose. Bring friends or associates for private degustation in our tasting room. Daily: 11.00-20.00

chEltI WINERy Vinotel wine cellar shop is definitely worth a visit. You’ll find the widest selection of varietals from different regions. They carefully select only the best of the artisan and mainstream wines from around Georgia.

62/18 Vazha Pshavela Str. Wine plant ‘Chelti’: Shilda, Kakheti region TEL 577 44 44 55

The Cellar is oriented on natural family professional winemakers. It also offers its own wine production from vineyards at affordable prices, other professional small wine and cellar products, and exclusive offerings with tax free service. All the wine is kept at 13-15 degrees

to buy

Wine Company Chelti was founded in 2001. Located in the Kakheti region, in

Shilda village near Kvareli, the winery offers a 7m-deep wine cellar with a temperature that does not exceed 12-16 degrees throughout the year- ideal for wine storage. Chelti wine is produced from grapes harvested from sandy-gravel soil, and Gunashauri grapes grown in clay-loam soil. The wine company also produces Dry White Wine, Saperavi Rose and Kindzmarauli Red Semi Sweet made from the Rkatsiteli variety. The company Chelti also produces premium quality Qvevri Wine. Wine is produced according to classical and traditional methods as well as with advanced technologies which make it possible to control the wine quality at any stage of its making.

mENABDE WINERy Shemokmedi, Ozurgeti, Guria TEL 593 33 23 17

The hotel offers five rooms to guests, while the new wine cellar provides tours in Gomi Mountain and to the coast, on request. The sea shore is approximately 30 minutes away and Gomi Mountain is about a 60-minute drive.

chAtEAU AzNAURI Near Eniseli village and Gremi, Kakheti TEL 598 11 12 88

AlAvERDI mONAStERy Village Alaverdi, Akhmeta TEL 596 10 04 34 The wine cellar of Alaverdi Monastery is one of Kakheti’s most distinctive cellars. Located within the monastery territory, on the site of the historical wine cellar (8th-10th centuries), it was recently rebuilt. The cellar includes a classical wine hall, a large 6th century Qvevri warehouse, an ethnographic corner, a tasting room, and a souvenir shop. Traditional white and red Qvevri wines produced in the Alaverdi Monastery wine cellar include Rkatsiteli, Mtsvane Kakhuri, Kisi, Khikhvi, Saperavi and Chacha.

Chateau Aznauri is a first-class complex located in the vineyards of Kakheti. It manufactures wines using the traditional Kakhetian method, in clay amphora (Qvevri) buried deep in the earth, where the wine ferments over several months at soil temperature. Chateau Aznauri boasts 14 Qvevri of a total 25 tons.

JAvAkhIShvIlI cEllAR Akhalsopeli, Kvareli, Kakheti TEL 577 06 89 40

WINE cEllAR kAkhURI 1 Tbilisi Highway, Telavi TEL 599 10 70 35

The cellar is located on 2.5 hectares of land, where you’ll also find a Gurian house “Oda” (traditional house in Guria), cellar “Nalia” (traditional building for corn harvesting), Gurian barn, verandas, special places for rest (cabana, bonfire, playing places for children), fruit and nut orchards, and high and low hanging grape vines.

Kakhuri is located on the main road of Telavi on a territory housing a demonstration vineyard, a wine-tasting room and an ethnographic corner. Visitors can participate in the grape harvest, bake bread, and make wine and churchkhela. The company produces several varieties of PDO and table wines: Tsinandali, Mukuzani, Kindzmarauli, Saperavi, Rkatsiteli, Mtsvane Kakhetian, etc., as well as Chacha.

to buy

The Javakhishvili wine cellar is the best place for family wine degustation and to get a taste of traditional Georgian dishes. Here, you can enjoy a large wine cellar, two gazebos and a large wine shop. The cellar is big enough to host events.

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Listing: Georgian Designers chUBIkA

mARIAm GvASAlIA

DAlOOD tBIlISI

Address: 3a Abakelia Str. TEL 579 43 13 19 https://www.chubika.com/

Address: 19 Kobuleti Str., Tbilisi TEL 592 13 00 00

Address: 23 Kostava Str., Tbilisi TEL 577 14 99 12, 599 33 78 74

fAShION hOUSE mAtERIA

AvtANDIl

Address: 22 K. Apkhazi Str., Tbilisi TEL 299 68 18, 247 58 07 www.materia.ge

DOtS GIGA tAvDGIRIDzE â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Gt hANDmADE Facebook: GT handmade TEL 577447178

SOfIO GONGlI Enamel buyers.ge

Address: 22 K. Apkhazi Str., Tbilisi 2/4 Rustaveli Ave., Galleria Tbilisi, 40 Rustaveli Str., Hilton Batumi TEL 299 95 30 www.dotstbilisi.com

tAmUNA INGOROkvA Address: 13a Tamarashvili Str., Tbilisi TEL 291 28 72, 577 15 99 55 http://ingorokva.com/

ANUkA kEBURIA

ElOShI

Address: 81 I. Abashidze Str., Tbilisi TEL 599 28 88 85

Address: 108 T. Tabidze Str., Tbilisi TEL 591 19 79 10

fAShION hOUSE AkA NANItAShvIlI Address: 43 Paliashvili Str., Tbilisi 7 Bambis Rigi Str., Tbilisi 19 Mazniashvili Str., Batumi TEL 590 99 55 99, 577 73 99 77 www.akananita.com

ANOUkI Address: 2 Tarkhnishvili Str., Tbilisi 6 M. Abashidze Ave., Batumi TEL 292 22 32, 0 422 22 32 12 www.anouki.com

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Address: 29 K. Apkhazi Str., Tbilisi, 2/4 Rustaveli Ave., Galleria Tbilisi, D. Agmashenebeli Alley 16th km., Tbilisi Mall, 88 Gorgiladze Str., Batumi Mall TEL 291 33 29, 298 90 10 www.avtandil.com

GEORGE ShAGAShvIlI tINAtIN mAGAlAShvIlI WEDDING DRESSES Address: 28/1 Al. Kazbegi Ave., Tbilisi TEL 218 13 21, 599 51 34 04

to buy

Address: 3 Tamarashvili Str., Tbilisi TEL 222 62 28, 593 31 61 77, 593 30 25 45

SAlOmE GvINIAShvIlI Address: 42 Abashidze Str., Tbilisi TEL 592 13 48 48

Medical Tourism

Innova In Vitro Clinic By ketevan kvarstkheliya

The medical sphere is one of the most rapidly-developing fields in the busy and ever-changing modern world, enabling individuals to fight serious illnesses, live and enjoy a ‘full’ life. Georgia is on the list of those countries making major steps forward in the medical sector, with a number of modern clinics having been launched in the country in recent years, boasting teams of experienced professionals.

Innova In Vitro, a multidisciplinary and customer-oriented clinic, is one such medical institution, which with the hard

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work of the management team, professionalism of its experts, and comfortable and high-quality services offered to clientele, has already strongly established itself on the market. This is a clinic launched in partnership with IVI, the world’s largest network of assisted reproduction clinics, specialized in reproductive health, one of the fields of paramount importance in today’s world.

representing a significant platform in terms of development of the medical field countrywide.

What is IVF?

Innova In Vitro is equipped with the latest

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a complex series of procedures used to treat fertility or genetic problems and assist with the conception of a child. During IVF, mature eggs are collected from a woman’s ovaries and fertilized by sperm in a lab.

technologies, in accordance with internationally recognized standards, and offers services in various fields, thus

Then the fertilized egg (embryo) or eggs are implanted into the woman’s uterus. One cycle of IVF takes about two weeks.

Medical Tourism

IVF is the most effective form of assisted reproductive technology and Innova In Vitro is the one providing the best services in this regard.

Fertility Success Starts with the Lab… There are many factors that must come together to help our patients achieve a successful, healthy pregnancy. The expertise of our world-class doctors and staff is an essential piece of the equation. But a critical part of the in vitro fertilization (IVF) process happens in a place that most patients never see: our laboratory. Innova In Vitro labs are state-of-the-art facilities with every aspect designed to maximize your chances of having a healthy baby. Our research teams have worked tirelessly to determine the best environment, technology and equipment in our labs to achieve successful pregnancies, and they are constantly working to improve these standards. Not all fertility labs are equal in terms of the quality of the environment and measures taken to ensure the maximal chances of creating and growing embryos. It is the quality of our labs and our esteemed research facility that sets us apart from our peers. Our expertise and dedication to lab operations continuously produces high success rates

…And the Innova in Vitro Team The team at the Innova In Vitro clinic, formed with highly-trained experts in the spheres of Gynecology, Biology, Genetics and Surgery, with 15 years in vitro fertilization experience, led by Ketevan Osidze, and with Spanish embryologist Garcia Jordan as IVF Lab

Director, have set the requirements of the patients and achieving the most fruitful outcomes as their main priorities, synthesizing their brilliant theoretical knowledge with innovative treatment methods. At the clinic, patients are offered complete diagnostics and management of all infertility abnormalities, followed by application of the relevant treatments. What is most important, the team spares no effort to ensure the completion of this process in the shortest time possible and also offers a genetic study of the embryo, much facilitating the procedure. Each client of the clinic is treated with special care, accentuating the signifi-

Medical Tourism

cance of individual factors. The reproductologist individually evaluates the chances of success in each case. Through the high-quality of services, transparency of procedures and individual approach to the clientele, the Innova In Vitro clinic is now welcoming local, as well as international patients from various countries worldwide.

6 Z. Anjaparidze Str., I turn TEL 223 22 32 / 596 23 22 32 Mail: osidze_k@yahoo.com FB: Innova Invitro/ინოვა ინვიტრო

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Clinic MEDI has been operating in Georgia since 1999. It is a member of “MEDI– Aesthetic Clinics Group”, which is also successful in Saint Petersburg and Prague. Georgia boasts up to 1,000.000 patients, 30,000 successful plastic surgeries, and 20 European-standard branches in Tbilisi, Batumi, Kutaisi, Gori, Zugdidi, Akhaltsikhe, Poti, Rustavi, Khashuri and Telavi. The firmly established “Safe brand – Clinic MEDI,” existing for a decade in Georgia, continues to offer the complete spectrum of aesthetic medicine: plastic surgery, cosmetology, dentistry, gynecology, proctology, rehabilitation center (spa and fitness); the most important priorities are face and body surgery as well as cosmetic rejuvenation, modeling and correction. In the clinic work surgeons, doctor-dermatologists, doctor-cosmetologists, dentists and instructors who received their education and qualifications in Europe. The key to MEDI’s success is up-to-date, unique technologies, a patient-oriented environment, highly qualified medical personnel and a peaceful, exclusive environment. Many innovative methodologies and technologies in the field of aesthetic medicine are directly connected with the names of the founders of “MEDI – Aesthetic Clinics Group”, Marina and Giorgi Mchedlidze. The standards established by them in the field of aesthetic medicine have many followers in Georgia.

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Medical Tourism

Plastic Surgery

Cosmetology

The following operations are performed in plastic surgery: Nose job (Rhinoplasty), Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), Breast plastic, Liposuction, Cosmetic Ear surgery (Otoplasty), Tummy tucks (Abdominoplasty), face lifting, Chin surgery (Genioplasty), scar correction and etc.

Cosmetology in clinic MEDI offers patients the full range of both injection and apparatus procedures for face and body. In addition, the clinic presents world recognised # 1 rejuvenation procedure - THERMAGE, which is done only in clinic MEDI thought Georgia. This unique procedure is the only one that can stop the aging process.

Dentistry In dental direction clinic MEDI is the only one in Georgia, where patients have the opportunity to take full range of dental services in one space. The best doctors, the latest generation of digital equipment and patient oriented environment support clinic to achieve the best final results. medi.ge The head clinic: 52 Kostava Str., Tbilisi TEL (+995) 291 00 00

Medical Tourism

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Osteopathy â&#x20AC;&#x201C; An Innovation in Medical Science By ketevan kvarstkheliya

In the contemporary busy world, where individuals have to adapt to the exhausting rhythm of life, there is a number of health issues that arise daily, including back pain, headaches, as well as ENT diseases. While the vast majority of society tries to find a solution and cure the above-mentioned problems through â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;traditionalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; methods and a wide range of medications, there is an innovative method of treatment that can ensure long-term success. This

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method is called Osteopathy, an approved medical practice in countries worldwide. The Osteopathic Center of Tbilisi recently opened on the Georgian medical market, offering a wide range of services to clientele. Osteopathy is a method based on the manual manipulation of various body tissues. But it is vital to understand that it does not represent any type of massage or manual therapy. Unique in sense, osteopa-

Medical Tourism

thy is distinguished to see the body as a self-regulating system and does not follow the traditional method of treatment of the organs, muscles or bones separately: osteopaths detect changes in different tissues of the body and prevent them from progressing, at the earliest stages. Back pain, headache and dizziness are among the most widely spread discomforts present in the daily routine of millions of people worldwide. Whilst painkillers are

associated with the ‘solution’ in general, Osteopathy gives an incredible chance to determine the actual cause of the pain, rather than treating its consequences. What is of vital importance, the healing process is led without medical involvement, making Osteopathy safe for pregnant women and minors, and promising success in the long-term. Boasting a team of experienced professionals, the Osteopathic Center of Tbilisi offers a wide range of totally safe and vital courses of treatment for a number of health issues. We spoke to Elizaveta Astakhova, Founder of Osteopathic center and Osteopath, to find out more. “Osteopathy helps us to understand the sense of health and how much everything is interconnected in our body,” she says. “In classical medical education, information is divided into separate chunks. Anatomy is taught according to body systems, followed by the specialization of doctors in particular spheres. Unfortunately, interconnection between the body parts is gradually forgotten.” Elizaveta states that Osteopathy is a method that helps us to understand the real causes of diseases and cure them without medicines. “I truly believe that Osteopathy is the medical science of the future. More people need to understand the needs of their body instead of fighting the symptoms. I feel it is my mission to develop the branch, which contributes to the conscious treatment of the body and health,” she notes. “Our center was launched based on this concept. I started the practice of Osteopathy in Tbilisi when I was visiting individuals at their homes. I soon understood that the method is in high demand, as more people became assured of its effectiveness. Therefore, the idea to open a clinic was born.” Along with the immaculate services of the Osteopathic Center, the members of staff and doctors treat each patient so they can be healed in the shortest time and in the very best way. For more information, please visit: www.osteo.ge 3 L. Mikeladze Str. (34 Abuladze Str.), Tbilisi, Georgia (+995) 290 46 05, (+995) 555 109 606 info@osteo.ge

Medical Tourism

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SERVICE HALL 9 APRIL PARK

RIKE

Tbilisi Map. Designed at the request of the Georgian National Tourism Administration for non-commercial purposes.

9 MARCH PARK

DEDAENA PARK

PUBLIC SERVICE HALL 9 APRIL PARK

RIKE

BOTANIC GARDEN

Dubai

UAE Residents about Georgia! “Thank you for the warm welcome. You made us feel like we came home. Your hotel’s name “The Family” justifies itself. We felt ourselves as we were home with our family. Thanks to the hosts for the delicious breakfasts and dinners, also for the sincere conversations over the glass of homemade wine. We will definitely comeback.” Alena & Olga from Dubai, 18 - 25 May, 2017

“We came here because my best friend recommended. We came from Dubai. This hotel is really relaxing place, me and my boyfriend loved this place a lot! I love the style of the house, I love the cute and friendly people in the house, I really feel like it is my own family, I love all of them. I am sure that I will be back at same place again and again. We are in love with Georgia!” Lu Yang & Lion from Dubai 25.09.2018

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dubai

“Despite of having a short stay of few days, I already feel so attached to this country. All will stay long and fresh in my memory. Thank you so much for giving me a home in Georgia. My journey here is beautiful because of you. I love Georgia! I love “The Family”!” Meng Amelia Zhang and Vijay Sri Krishna <3 DUBAI, UAE

“Hey! My name is Anna, me and my husband just been to Georgia few days ago and it was amazing! Weather, food, people. We are in love ” Anna Matveeva from Dubai, June 2019

“Namaste! It was all together a wonderful experience. This place is really warm and hosts were amazing. We didn’t feel for a second that we are away from our home. Special thanks to hosts for taking us and guiding us in the mountains of Bakuriani. We had wonderful days starting from breakfast till the night tea ending with glass of wine and cha-cha. We will certainly come back in Georgia”. Manisha and Nakul Dubey, India 22 – 27 Dec, 2016

dubai

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Upcoming Fairs in UAE June – September 2019 BRIDE ABU DhABI

26 - 29 June 2019 | Wedding Fair The Bride Show Abu Dhabi is a one-stop-shop for every stage of your big day. Whatever your budget, you’ll find hundreds of ideas for every last detail of your perfect wedding at a fair designed to make your life simpler and save you weeks of searching.

INtERNAtIONAl hUNtING & EQUEStRIAN EXhIBItION ADIhEX ABU DhABI

27 - 31 August 2019 | International Exhibition for Hunting, Equestrian, Arts & Crafts, Outdoor, Safari, Marine and Fishing Every year, ADIHEX unites over 110,000 participants for five days of learning, networking and business transactions. Among attendees are local and international end users, traders, high net-worth individuals, VVIPs and dignitaries from around the world, rulers and sheikhs of the UAE and other GCC countries as well as protectors of the sustainable hunting sector. Over 650 international and local companies already recognize ADIHEX as the most important cultural and outdoor sports event in the GCC region. ADIHEX offers a diverse range of services and products catering to the Middle East’s hunting, equestrian and outdoor industries. ADIHEX includes a variety of exciting features organized by its exhibitors, sponsors and partners, including a dedicated kids knowledge area with activities such as workshops and games that spread environmental awareness among children and link them to the exhibition. New competitions and actions include falcon flying and dog agility competitions and a falcon auction. Arena activities involve exciting live horse and camel shows.

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dubai

cItyScAPE GlOBAl DUBAI

10 - 12 September 2019 | International event for real estate, investment and development Cityscape Global, the International Real Estate Investment and Development Event will once again offer an outstanding opportunity for the regional and international real estate community to network, create joint venture partnerships and discuss the future of real estate. The three-day exhibition and conference will be complimented with networking events for investors and developers to be able to interact face-to-face.

INDEX DUBAI

17 - 19 September 2019 | International Fair of Furniture and Interior Design Index offers visitors the latest trends and products simultaneously in one place. Here you will find everything to furnish offices, residences and hotels. Browse home accessories, functional and upholstered furniture and carpets. In addition, design awards, among them the Red Dot Award, will be given. Last year saw 420 exhibitors from 40 countries and 27,448 visitors from 91 countries at Index in Dubai. This year promises to be no less extraordinary.

thE hOtEl ShOW DUBAI

17 - 19 September 2019 | Trade fair for equipment, technology and services to the hospitality industry The Hotel Show is the biggest and most important event for the hospitality sector in the Middle East, showing off the latest products and services for all aspects of the hotel, catering and leisure industry. Exhibitors can meet key industry professionals from around the world, among them hotel managers, architects, designers and purchasing agents. The Hotel Show features the Middle East Spa Summit for all questions about hotel spas, as well as a comprehensive conference program that offers insight into design trends and the technology of the future. Material & photo source: www.tradefairdates.com

dubai

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Business Listing BANKS

opened its doors to smaller enterprises as well and now it provides corporate and investment banking services to legal

BASISBANk 1 K. Tsamebuli Ave.

entities with annual turnover exceeding

TEL 2921 921, 292 29 22

one million GEL.

www.basisbank.ge

TEL 226 50 00

As of December 2018, the Bankâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s total

vtB BANk GEORGIA

www.pashabank.ge

assets exceeded GEL 327 million.

14 G. Tchanturia Str.

PAShA Bank Address: Saarbrucken Square, 0102, Tbilisi, Georgia

TEL 250 55 05

PROcREDIt BANk

www.vtb.com.ge

21 Al. Kazbegi Ave. TEL 220 22 22 www.procreditbank.ge

tBc BANk 7 Marjanishvili Str. TEL 227 27 27

hAlyk BANk

www.tbcbank.com.ge

74 Kostava Str. TEL 224 07 07 www.hbg.ge

PASHA Bank is a Baku-based financial institution operating in Azerbaijan, Georgia and Turkey, providing corporate

BANk Of GEORGIA

and investment banking services to large,

29a Gagarin Str.

medium and small enterprises.

TEL 244 44 44

PASHA Bank is a part of PASHA Holding

www.bankofgeorgia.ge

- a diversified investment group with

71 Vazha-Pshavela Ave.

interests in banking, insurance, property

TEL 224 49 49

development, construction, tourism and

www. nca.ge

other sectors. The Bank has been operating in Georgia

lIBERty BANk

since 2013. Through these years PASHA

74 Chavchavadze Ave.

Bank has been serving large and medium-

TEL 255 55 00

sized enterprises. In 2019 the Bank

www.libertybank.ge

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fINcA BANk GEORGIA

tERABANk

3 Queen Ketevan Ave. TEL 255 00 00

SOcAR GEORGIA PEtROlIUm

GPc

www.terabank.ge

24 300 Aragveli Str.

TEL 294 07 40

TEL 243 92 75, 243 97 77

www.gpc.ge

FUEL COMPANIES GUlf 34 Chavchavadze Ave. TEL 249 64 4 4 www.gulf.ge

www.sgp.ge

6 Sanapiro Str.

PHARMACIES

COMMUNICATIONS COMPANIES

EvEX mEDIcAl cORPORAtION

mAGtIcOm

40 Vazha-Pshavela Ave. TEL 255 05 05

7 A. Politkova Str. TEL 217 00 00

www.evex.ge

WISSOl Opposite side of Tbilisi

PSP GROUP

BEElINE 8 Gorgasali Str. TEL 220 06 06

International Airport

www.beeline.ge

TEL 218 46 28 www.wissol.ge 148/3 D. Agmashenebeli Ave.TEL 240 20 20, 218 51 11 www.psp.ge

AvERSI ROmPEtROl GEORGIA

GEOcEll

148 Agmashenebeli Ave.

3 Gotua Str.

TEL 298 78 60

TEL 277 01 77

3 Vl. Vekua Str.

www.aversi.ge

www.geocell.ge

TEL 291 07 27 www.rompetrol.ge

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CHAMBERS IN TBILISI Icc 3/29 P. Kakabadze Str. TEL 298 81 76 www.icc.ge

GEORGIAN chAmBER GlOBAl BENEfIt Of cOmmERcE AND GEORGIA INDUStRy 7a P. Kakabadzr Str. 29 N. Shataidze Str. TEL 269 47 47 www.gcci.ge

TEL 250 00 01

AlDAGI 3 Pushkin Str. TEL 244 49 99 www.aldagi.ge

AmERIcAN chAmBER thE BRItISh Of cOmmERcE GEORGIAN IN GEORGIA chAmBER Of 36a L. Asatiani Str. cOmmERcE TEL 222 69 07 www.amcham.ge

1 Tabidze 1 Building, 2 Leonidze Str., Regus office TEL 599 465 364 contact@bgcc.org.uk www.bgcc.org.uk

ISRAEl-GEORGIA chAmBER Of BUSINESS 4 Freedom Sq. TEL 299 70 35, 299 70 36

thE chAmBER Of cOmmERcE AND INDUStRy fRANcE-GEORGIA 61 Agmashenebli Ave. TEL 222 69 40 www.ccifg.ge

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ARDI 3 Vazha-Pshavela Ave. TEL 210 10 10 www.ardi.ge

GPI hOlDING 67 Kostava Str. TEL 250 51 11 www.gpih.ge

INSURANCE COMPANIES Ic GROUP 24 Mosashvili Str. TEL 220 88 88 www.icgroup.ge

ImEDI l 9 Anna Politkovskaia Str. TEL 292 22 22 www.imedil.ge

GIDmEDI PlUS 3 R. Chkheidze Str. TEL 220 25 15, 291 32 19

Advanced Pediatric Care

The Right Pediatrician for your Child!

NEW hOSPItAlS 12 Krtsanisi Str. TEL 219 01 90

tODUA clINIc Comprehensive Healthcare for Infants, Children, and Adolescents

12. Krtsanisi Str.

Routine Check-ups, Immunizations, ะกounseling and Healthcare Packages

Amc tBIlISI

24/7 On-Call Pediatrician and Home Visits

Hotline: 250 00 20

TEL 234 81 19, 234 28 30

11 D. Arakishvili Str.

kUzANOv clINIc 5 Pekini Str. 24/7 Hotline numbers:

TEL 242 40 05, 555 40 20 20

Tbilisi:* +995 (32) 250 00 20 Batumi: +995 (32) 250 00 77

GEORGIAN-GERmAN clINIc mEDhOUSE

*Includes Gudauri, Svaneti and other regions

7 M. Abashidze Str. TEL 570 10 22 66, 568 05 03 03 Kyiv Odessa Lviv Tbilisi Batumi Almaty Astana

www.amcenters.com

cARAPS mEDlINE 48 Ljubljana Str. TEL 251 60 60

CLINICS IN TBILISI

DAvID tAtIShvIlI mEDIcAl cENtER

mEDIcAl cENtRE EXtRA

7 Abuladze Str.

39 Chavchavadze Ave.

TEL 291 31 19, 291 32 42

TEL 243 43 10, 596 11 43 43

TEL 222 21 55

GEOSWISS mEDIcAl cENtER

chAchAvA clINIc

mEDINvESt

5 Pekini Str.

TEL 295 33 11, 298 73 39

68 Chubinashvili Str.

44/5 Paliashvili Str.

mEDIhElP

38 Kostava Str.

TEL 236 33 64, 225 08 38, 225 18 90

TEL 225 19 60

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TOURISM INFORMATION CENTERS tBIlISI tOURISm INfORmAtION cENtER Pushkin Sq. TEL (+995 595) 215 86 97 Working days: Every day Working hours: 9:00 – 21:00

tBIlISI tOURISm INfORmAtION cENtER (tBIlISI INtERNAtIONAl AIRPORt) Tbilisi International Airport TEL (+995 32) 231 00 07 Working days: Every day / 24/7

mEStIA tOURISm INfORmAtION cENtER 7 Seti Sq. TEL (+995 5 51) 08 08 94 Working days: Every day Working hours: 10:00 – 18:00 (winter), 9:00 – 18:00 (summer)

kUtAISI tOURISm INfORmAtION cENtER 8a Rustaveli Str. TEL (+995 431) 241103 Working days: Every day

Working hours: 10:00 – 18:00 (winter), 9:00 – 18:00 (summer)

GORI tOURISm INfORmAtION cENtER 23a Kutaisi Str. TEL (+995 370) 270776 Working days: Every day Working hours: 10:00 – 18:00 (winter), 10:00 – 18:00 (summer)

mtSkhEtA tOURISm INfORmAtION cENtER 3 Arsukidze Str. TEL (+995 32) 2512128 Working days: Every day Working hours: 10:00 – 18:00 (winter), 10:00 – 18:00 (summer)

kvARElI tOURISm INfORmAtION cENtER 8 Rustaveli Str. TEL (+995 352) 221340 Working days: Every day Working hours: 10:00 – 18:00 (winter), 10:00 – 18:00 (summer)

SIGhNAGhI tOURISm

INfORmAtION cENtER 10 Kostava Str. TEL (+995 355) 232414 Working days: Every day Working hours: 10:00 – 18:00 (winter), 9:00 – 18:00 (summer)

tElAvI tOURISm INfORmAtION cENtER 9 Erekle II Str. TEL (+995 350) 275317 Working days: Every day Working hours: 9:00 – 18:00

BORJOmI tOURISm INfORmAtION cENtER Rustaveli Str. TEL (+995 367) 221397 Working days: E very day Working hours: 10:00 – 18:00 (winter), 9:00 – 18:00 (summer)

AkhAltSIkhE tOURISm INfORmAtION cENtER 1 Kharischirashvili Str. TEL (+995 365) 22 50 28 Working days: Every day Working hours: 09:00 - 18:00

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AmBROlAURI tOURISm INfORmAtION cENtRE

BAtUmI tOURISm INfORmAtION cENtER

17 Vazha-Pshavela Str.

(Central entrance of Boulevard)

TEL (+995 439) 22 16 18

TEL (0422) 29 44 12, 577 90 90 91

Working days: Every day

Working hours: 10:00 - 18:00

BOlNISI tOURISm INfORmAtION cENtER

2 Ninoshvili Str., Batumi,

BAtUmI tOURISm INfORmAtION cENtER Ski-lift surrounding area TEL (0422) 29 44 10, 577 90 90 93

TEL (+995 358) 22 23 19

Working days: Every day

Working hours: 10:00 - 18:00 (winter),

TIME ZONE Gmt + 4 cURRENcy Georgian Lari (GEL). One Lari is divided

115 Sulkhan-Saba Str. Working days: Every day

ESSENTIALS

SARPI tOURISm INfORmAtION cENtER

into 100 Tetris.

EmERGENcy - 112 112 can be dialed free of charge from most mobile telephones and landline telephones in order to reach emergency services (ambulance, re and rescue, police).

Sarpi Custom House

tBIlISI INtERNAtIONAl AIRPORt

TEL (+995 577) 90 90 93

TEL 231 03 41

TEL (+995 5 95) 08 82 19

kOBUlEtI tOURISm INfORmAtION cENtER

kUtAISI INtERNAtIONAl AIRPORt

Working days: Schedule determined

1 Agmashenebeli Str.

by flights

TEL 0422 29 44 13

9:00 - 18:00 (summer)

kUtAISI tOURISm INfORmAtION cENtER (kUtAISI AIRPORt) Kopitnari settlement

BAtUmI tOURISm INfORmAtION cENtER (BAtUmI INtERNAtIONAl AIRPORt)

Working days: Every day

TEL 0431 23 70 00

GEORGIAN RAIlWAy TEL 1331, 219 90 10

khUlO tOURISm INfORmAtION cENtER

GEORGIAN NAtIONAl tOURISm ADmINIStRAtION

29 M. Abashidze Str.

4 SANAPIRO STR.

Batumi International Airport

TEL (+995 577) 90 90 15

TEL 243 69 99

TEL (0422) 29 44 14

Working days: Every day

Working days: Schedule determined

DIAlING cODE:

by flights

+995 32

139

MARABDA HILLS Premium-Class Modern Apartments located in Upper-Vake, with Private Verandas and a three-floor Car Park. Enjoy the Tbilisi panorama on one side of the residential complex and a recreational zone the other. A path and road from the residence leads to Turtle Lake just 900 meters from Marabda Hills. This premium-class Emerald Development project kicked off in December 2018 and the underpinning is complete and the construction process is actively ongoing. The Marabda Hills residential house will consist of 57 five-star apartments with private terraces boasting an amazing panoramic view over Tbilisi City.

The project is set for completion by December 2020 The building will be constructed using the highest quality materials as well as Vileroy & Boch coverings and Mitsubishi elevators. The residence is to be equipped with fire protection and a security system. Thermal insulation and hermeticity are provided; heating and cooling systems centralized. The residents will be supplied with water through an autonomous filtering system. The elevator is to work smoothly with the UPS system. A three-floor car park will be arranged to provide comfortable parking.

Marabda Hills is luxury, a project designed with the technologies of upscale global brands. All tenants of the residence are to be served by a 24/7 concierge. Marabda Hills is for those who want to take a break from the city noise near the city center, in a luxury apartment.

17 Ioane Shavteli Str., Tbilisi +995 32 211 21 21 , info@ambassadori.casino www.ambassadori.casino