Where.ge #23 October-November Issue 2019

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www.whitehouse.gov issued on: August1, 2017

www.vinotel.ge

real georgian

experience established in 2002, ethno Tsiskvili has become a must visit restaurant in Tbilisi. every evening you can enjoy an unforgettable georgian dance show and folk bands. ethno Tsiskvili’s well-known cuisine and unique ambiance brings the real georgian experience together.

99, Beliashvili str, Tbilisi; 75, Chavchavadze ave, Tbilisi; 10a Rustaveli str, Tskneti For reservations call: +995 32 2005555 or email: reservation@tsiskvili.ge

where

.ge

your essential guide to Georgia

#23 October-November 2019 Publisher: George Sharashidze Editor in Chief: Katie Ruth Davies Executive Editor: Maka Bibilashvili Contributors: Katie Ruth Davies Maka Bibilashvili Sofia Bochoidze Ketevan Kvaratskheliya Nini Dakhundaridze Mariam Merabishvili Lorraine Vaney Ana Dumbadze Tony hanmer Photographers: Irakli Dolidze Designer: Ani Loladze Logo & Design Concept: Kevin Loftus Sales: Sofia Bochoidze Maia Tsereteli Mano Kutchukhidze Sesili Tikaradze Natalia Chikvaidze Tata Shengelia

Our readers already know well that according to leading modern scientists, Georgia is the oldest country of winemaking and wine culture - with the first known signs of winemaking found on Georgian territory proving to be 8000 years old.

Autumn is the perfect time to reflect on Georgia’s past and present wine culture, and the WHERE.ge October-November issue is packed with useful and informative harvest and winemaking related topics.

Kakheti, a wine region and favorite Where George Sharashidze to Go destination among wine lovers, is Publisher, WHERE.ge mentioned in every section of this brilliant autumn edition. Check out Lorraine Vaney’s short guide to Kakheti - the tastiest region, known for its colorful forests and endless vineyards, Editor Katie Davies’ guide to hotels with wine cellars, where you get the chance to taste and discover how the wines are made, and Ana Dumbadze’s Kakhetian cuisine…

One of the most famous “wine” hotels has pride of place on the front cover of this issue of WHERE.ge. Located in Old Tbilisi, Vinotel is a true concept of Georgia, presenting the country’s traditional hospitality and its rich history in a space that unites a hotel, a restaurant, and a wine cellar.

This issue of WHERE.ge, as per tradition, hosts renowned Georgians and expats, giving them the opportunity to share their best recommendations in each of the WHERE.ge sections - Go, Stay, Eat, Drink and Buy. Here, you can also find my personal choice for each of them:

Georgia Today Address:1 Melikishvili Ave. TEL 229 59 19 www.georgiatoday.ge Kakheti

In partnership with the Georgian National Tourism Administration

Vinotel

Ethnographer

Gorgasali Restaurant

City Mall

6 Justin McKenzie Smith Great Britain Ambassador to Georgia

50 Andrzej Malinowski Chief Executive Officer Veon Georgia (Beeline)

80 Natia Lomidze Sales Manager Fortune Palace Hotel

98 Julia Mgeladze General Manager Hotel King Gorgasali

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Eldar Pirmisashvili Public Relations Expert, Founder and Managing Director Influencer.ge

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Where to Go for Autumn Fun in Georgia . . . e c i o h C y M

Justin McKenzie Smith Ambassador of Great Britain to Georgia

Literature Museum Art Palace A day wandering through Tbilisi is a pleasure.

Step into a few of the museums on your route and you will discover the history of Georgia and its people. Two of my favorites are the Literature Museum, just off Rustaveli Avenue, and the State Museum of Theater, Music, Cinema and Choreography, known as the Art Palace.

If you are visiting this autumn, make a special trip to the Georgian National Museum to see the amazing coin of the great Georgian king, David The Builder, on loan from the British Museum as part of the UK Season in Georgia.

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Lily Vanilli Georgian food more than lives up to its reputation. So does Georgian wine. If you are invited to eat in a Georgian home, go! Tbilisi has wonderful restaurants – some traditional, some using traditional Georgian ingredients in new ways. If you’re looking for something different, check out Lily Vanilli in Vake for good coffee and delicious cakes. It is the only branch of this hip London bakery outside of the UK.

Rugby For a small country, Georgia has a truly impressive history of sporting achievement, decorated with trophies and medals. Georgia’s awesome wounded servicemen have won seated volleyball gold, twice, in the Invictus Games. Today, rugby is a big deal.

I am very proud that, in August, Scotland was the first Tier 1 rugby nation to play in Tbilisi. If there’s a rugby or football match at the Dinamo Arena or Mikheil Meskhi Stadium while you’re visiting, don’t miss it.

Kutaisi Tbilisi is very special, although to get to know Georgia you have to travel more widely. There are some well-known destinations and they are definitely worth a visit. I would add Kutaisi to your list – there is a buzz about the city these days. I am lucky that my job takes me to some less obvious places and allows me to meet people from all over the country. I was in Tsalka not long ago, in Kvemo Kartli, visiting an English language club we support. Another recent visit took me to Nasakirali in the mountains of Guria. These are regions of Georgia that I would love to explore more.

Nokalakevi The diversity of cultures, nature and history within Georgia is extraordinary. I love the fact that some of that history is still being discovered and interpreted. Each summer, I have the chance to visit the Anglo-Georgian Archaeological Expedition at beautiful Nokalakevi in Samegrelo, western Georgia. For the last 19 years, Georgian and British archaeologists have worked hand-in-hand to uncover the secrets of this extraordinary multi-period site dating back to the 8th Century BC.

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Martvili Canyon Wins National Landscape Award from the Council of Europe Canyon project among 47 countries’ projects, all of which had an important role in landscape restoration.

The award ceremony has been held since 2008, with winners so far named from France, Italy, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, Spain and more.

Martvili Canyon is one of the most distinguished natural monuments in Georgia and was the most popular protected area in 2019, seeing 150,000 visitors in just the first eight months of the year.

Martvili Canyon is the best place to spend a weekend with the family. The canyon is distinguished for its history and, according to legend, it was used as the bathing place of the royal Dadiani family, the river territory being secluded in a Colchis forest.

The Martvili Canyon development project has been distinguished with the National Landscape Award from the Council of Europe Landscape Convention in recognition of the work done to develop the area.

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Martvili Canyon was named winner of the award due to its unique landscape and its role raising environmental awareness in society. The Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe recognized the Martvili

The visitor center of Martvili Canyon is located in Inchkhuri village. A 700-meter circular trail starts from the visitor center and passes the Dadiani’s historic stone stairway, winding on through the forest overlooking the river and waterfalls below.

There are two bridges, three viewing platforms, and plenty of jungle-like greenery to enjoy. Visitors have an opportunity to take a dinghy tour, oars in hand, on a 300-meter section of the River Abasha and enjoy beautiful views of the canyon.

Find Martvili Canyon near Kutaisi in western Georgia, also a great stop on your way to explore the coastal Ajara region.

We Create Memories

www.nationalparks.ge

News US Embassy: Visit Shatili, One of Georgia’s Autumn Destinations The United States Embassy to Georgia promotes Shatili, a historic highland village near the border with Chechnya, as one of the country’s autumn destinations and encourages travelers to visit this historic place.

“We must always keep moving forward to reach our goals, whether crossing the Atsunta Pass to reach Shatili, or to keep our democracies strong and vibrant!” the United States Embassy to Georgia wrote in a Facebook post, adding photos depicting the breathtaking and exotic beauty of Shatili landscapes.

The US Embassy also cited words of prominent Georgian writer Ilia Chavchavadze: “Movement and only movement is my Tergi (name of a river in the Northern Caucasus, which originates in the Mtskheta-Mtianeti region of Georgia), the source of the country’s strength and life…”

New Svaneti Lock Screen for Microsoft Windows

By Nini Dakhundaridze The Georgian National Tourism Administration has reported that Microsoft Windows is featuring Georgia’s picturesque views.

For the next few days, an image taken in one of Georgia’s most beautiful regions, Svaneti, will be the lock screen of millions of Microsoft Windows users.

“Travel to this spot on the globe and Georgia may very well be on your mind” reads the caption of the new lock screen, showing the mountains of Svaneti.

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Shopping and Entertainment City

Tbilisi, Kakheti Highway , 2 AI. Tvalchrelidze st

Tourism Products of Georgia Presented in Spain

By Mariam Merabishvili

An important presentation was organized by the National Tourism Administration of the Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development and the Embassy of Georgia to the Kingdom of Spain for Spanish tourism companies, media representatives and bloggers, seeing more than 120 guests in attendance.

At the presentation, Mariam Kvrivishvili, Head of the National Tourism Administration introduced Georgian tourism products to the invited guests. She noted that demand and interest were very high, which gives Georgia hope and an opportunity to attract even more EU citizens and increase Spain’s share in the country’s tourism industry.

“We are pleased to have held this kind of event for the first time in Madrid, providing an opportunity for up to 90 tour operators and up to 30 leading media outlets to get to know Georgia’s tourism potential and various tourism products, as well as discuss the importance of business tourism. After this event, Spanish tourism companies will know what they can offer Spanish tourists in Georgia, which is a four-season tourist destination with diverse nature and rich culture,” noted Kvrivishvili.

Ilia Giorgadze, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Georgia to the Kingdom of Spain, also addressed the guests. “I am pleased that such a successful event was held,” he said afterwards. “There was a lot of interest from Spanish companies and the media and it seems Spain’s interest in Georgia is growing by the day. More Spanish tourists are now coming to Georgia and we hope even more will come next year.”

Travel Channel Promotes Tourism Potential of Ajara For the first time this year, the spectators of the Travel Channel, the popular American TV Channel owned by Discovery, Inc., had the opportunity to get acquainted with the marine and mountain tourism products of Georgia’s seaside Ajara region. The promotional video of the region was broadcasted in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East by the international TV Station.

In the UK, along with Travel Channel, the promotional video of Ajara was aired on DMAX, a subsidiary of the DISCOVERY network. The Ajara Tourism Department also promoted tourism products of the region on National Geographic, BBC, Deutsche Welle, and Euronews this year.

“It is important for us to promote the region on platforms targeted at travelers,” said Tinatin Zoidze, Head of the Ajara Tourism Department. “One of them is the Travel Channel, whose travel shows and documentaries are known in 195 countries around the world. This year, for the first time, we also reached out to National Geographic audiences, most of whom are travel enthusiasts.

Presenting the tourism opportunities of Ajara on such international platforms enables us to increase the awareness of our country and the region, while at the same time contributes to creating a positive image and reputation and attracting potential visitors.”

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UNESCO Names Tbilisi World Book Capital 2021 The Director-General of UNESCO, Audrey Azoulay, named Tbilisi ‘World Book Capital’ for the year 2021, based on the recommendation of the World Book Capital Advisory Committee, which met in Switzerland in June, 2019.

Around the slogan “Ok. So your Next Book Is…?” the program focuses on the use of modern technologies as powerful tools for promoting reading among youth.

The program is comprised of several important, large-scale and sustainable activities.

Amongst the events and activities there will be libraries and a book festival for children, a state-of-the-art digital project for transforming books into games, and the rebuilding of the first Georgian publishing house.

Specifically designed for children, youngsters and readers who have limited access to books, the activity program will be driven by innovation. The city’s principal objective is to popularize reading and increase accessibility to books for all social levels.

The year of celebrations will kick off on 23 April 2021, on World Book and Copyright Day. Cities designated as UNESCO World Book Capitals undertake to promote books and reading and to organize activities over the year.

As the twenty-first city to bear the title since 2001, Tbilisi follows Kuala Lumpur (2020) and Sharjah (2019). Past winners include Madrid (2001), Alexandria (2002), New Delhi (2003), Anvers (2004), Montreal (2005), Turin (2006), Bogota (2007), Amsterdam(2008), Beirut (2009), Ljubljana (2010), Buenos Aires (2011), Erevan (2012), Bangkok (2013), Port Harcourt (2014), Incheon (2015), Wroclaw (2016), Conakry (2017) and Athens (2018).

The Advisory Committee for nominating the World Book Capital city is made up of representatives of the International Publisher’s Association (IPA), the International Federation of Library Associations (IFLA) and UNESCO.

Georgia’s Success at ATWS

By Ketevan Kvaratskheliya Georgia has yet again succeeded in the sphere of tourism. A video clip about the country entitled ‘One Blood: Georgia,’ introducing its stunning landscapes and sights through the story of one young man, Alex Iskandarov, came out on top at the Adventure Tourism World Summit (ATWS) in Sweden.

Mariam Kvrivishvili, Head of the Georgian National Tourism Administration of the Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development, reported on this success through her Facebook page.

“Georgia has won! A video clip about Georgia has obtained victory with the majority of votes at the Adventure Tourism World Summit!!!” reads her post. She congratulated Georgia on the win, noting that this is a huge accomplishment for the country.

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Welcome to Georgia Awards

By Ketevan Kvaratskheliya

Meet Maryna Chayka, Founder of the Welcome to Georgia! National Tourism Awards As tourism is one of the most promising and fastest growing industries in Georgia, various projects are being launched in this direction. The ‘Welcome to Georgia! National Tourism Awards,’ is one such initative focused

on supporting the country’s tourism and developing services and institutions operating in the field. The Where.ge team sat down with Maryna Chayka, Founder and Managing Partner of the ‘Welcome to Georgia!

National Tourism Awards,’ to find out more about the project.

Tells us the story of the ‘Welcome to Georgia!

N a t i o n a l To u r i s m Awards.’ When and why did you decide to launch it?

I visited Georgia as a tourist in 2011. From my first day here, the Georgians amazed me so much with their hospitality and character that I immediately fell in love with this country and realized that I was not here for the last time.

I’ve been implementing tourism and hospitality projects for years. I was doing Hospitality Awards in other countries until 2014. For me, it was a great challenge to create such a large-scale project.

We did our market research in Georgia and saw how the industry is developing here and realized that there is no

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project of this kind on the local market. I saw this as a great opportunity and decided to create the Welcome to Georgia! National Tourism Awards. So, I came with this idea to Georgia in April 2015.

We created a format in which the entire tourism industry is consolidated: an open and transparent competition with nominations where any object could find its place, be rated and do everything to be named the best among the best. At first I worked alone, spending about 15-17 hours a day in the office working on it. It was a difficult period, but I loved my work, which ultimately determined its success. Looking back, I see how the project has grown and acquired exactly the importance and scale that I saw and imagined on those very long working days and nights. And I know for sure that this is only the beginning of the story.

How successful has it proven to be?

Very, and I am more than sure that my opinion is objective. The Official Awards Ceremony is one of the most significant events of the year in the field of tourism. In addition, the project is expanding: for the 4th year in the frame of the Welcome to Georgia! National Tourism Awards Project, we held the Tourism and Hospitality Conference. In joint, both of these events are the best way to motivate companies operating in the tourism sector to expand their services and opportunities within the framework of this project. This is not only an award, but is also a great portal of possibilities for an industry to meet, get

acquainted with and discuss ideas for the future and, often, become partners. We are the only project that unites the entire market.

This project has already been recognized as the Oscar of Georgian Tourism and Hospitality Industry.

Are there any novelties or surprises set for this year?

Yes! This year the project celebrates its fiveyear anniversary, so the event will be completely full of novelties and surprises. To begin with, this year we will change the traditional “Oscar” format of the Ceremony and hold the event in the style of a Gala evening in the upgraded “Sheraton Grand Tbilisi Metechi Palace”. Readers should mark December 6, 2019 in their calendars. During the event, the invited audience will find a lot of interactivity and surprises in a pleasant, relaxed and at the same time breathtaking atmosphere. This year we will announce winners in 26 nominations, 6 of them absolutely new.

The After-Party also promises surprises for guests, the venue and the program fully matching the non-standard format of the event, but I will keep the details a secret for now!

How much do you think the Welcome to Georgia Awards contribute to the development of the tourism industry in Georgia?

The concept of the project itself is aimed at developing the local tourism industry. Every year, together with the National Tourism Administration, we try to affect and nominate such industries that need additional support and pushing and motivation to take their place in the niche. The same thing happens during the conference: we conduct regular polls, try to provide the audience with topics and invite speakers from governmental and private sectors who can discuss thematic and global problematic questions with the audi-

ence during the discussion panels. Throughout the year, with its advertising company, both on social networks and local media, and with international media partners, the project seeks to maximize the popularity of the local tourism market among the international markets. This year we have added quite lot of very important nominations, as “THE BEST AIRLINE COMPANY”, “THE BEST TRADITIONAL CRAFT,” “THE BEST RURAL TOURISM”, and “THE BEST RESPONSIBLE TOURISM.” We even started cooperation with the UNDP and created a nomination together with them for water consumption, the “H2O WATER SAVING AWARD”.

Tell us about your future plans for this project.

There are a lot of plans. One of the most interesting ones is the creation of an academy for staff development and training for any tourism and hospitality service sector.

There is also an idea to create a mobile application, which I hope we will launch soon with the support of our partners, which we believe this will be one of the main tools that can further help the local market. There are also ideas about the providence of the ceremony, but I don’t want to get ahead of myself. We can promise that the project will not stop, but keep moving forward, and I hope our annual statistics only confirm this.

What about your experience in Georgia? What were the reasons that led you to launch a large-scale project in this particular country?

From my first day in Georgia, I was faced with hospitality at every turn. It was amazing and very nice! The Georgians impressed me so much that I almost immediately began to feel comfortable here. Moreover, one of the people I met then became my daughter’s godfather.

When I returned home, Georgia always remained in my thoughts. After that visit, I did not return here for three years. Now it seems to me that these were the longest three years in my life. I did the Russian Hospitality Awards in 2014. It was a great test for me.

And having successfully launched the project in Moscow, I decided to move on. I saw how the industry was developing here and realized that there was no such project in the local market yet, it was a pleasant surprise for me.

It was already really difficult for me to live in two countries, and it became already difficult psychologically when you have two lives in two different countries. It is impossible to divide yourself. In September, I moved to Georgia and now Georgia is my second home. There is a market with great potential in Georgia and we have a lot to develop in our project.

You speak Georgian, how did you study this language and was it difficult to learn?

When my first press conference was held in Georgia, I hosted it myself, as a moderator, in English. But all the speakers spoke Georgian. When the press conference ended, Mr. Kumsishvili said that after six months I should speak Georgian. So, I started taking Georgian lessons. “Kartuli zalian rtulia” (Georgian is very complicated), but now I do all my matches in Georgian, write them myself and translate them together with my teacher. In the negotiations, I understand a lot and this is very important. To speak the language of the country in which you live a very basic respect for the country and partners. Additionally, this year I moved to this country with my daughter and she started learning in a Georgian school, so it is not motivation any more, I am proud to say that it is already my second native language.

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Kakheti - Autumn 2019

By Lorraine Vaney

could take 3h to get from one town to the other. Most of the main sightseeing and famous wineries in the region are located outside of these two towns, so it may be more comfortable to arrange a tour, especially if you are short on time. You can plan your trip in advance in Tbilisi or simply get information from the locals once you reach the region. Guesthouse owners definitely have the best contacts and knowledge of their region.

What to see and Telavi; by taxi, it is less than 2h hours from the capital. You can get a taxi from the Isani Subway Station for less than $5 (15 GEL) per person. It takes approximately 1.5 hours, and you can easily negotiate with your driver to stop on the way for pictures and breaks.

Kakheti has a lot to offer and you can create your own travel plans according to your time, taste and budget. Because September often rhymes with busy schedules, Where.ge has selected the most relaxing spots and activities for a refreshing outdoor break.

Small TOWN Life

How to get there

If you have more time and wish to discover the Georgian way to travel, you can take a Marshrutka (minibus) from the Samgori subway station, leaving hourly from 7am to 6pm. Make sure to come a few minutes in advance to get a seat, especially if you are traveling with friends. Also note that they often have very little space available for luggage. The journey costs $2 (6 GEL) per person and takes 2.5 hours.

Kakheti is just a few hours away from Tbilisi, depending on your final destination. The two main cities are Sighnaghi

You can take a bus from Sighnaghi to Telavi for $2, leaving every day at 9am.

However, because it stops frequently, it

Autumn in Georgia is the most vibrant season of all. Whether you are down for some humid orange sunsets in the subtropical jungles of Ajara or prefer to get your puffy jacket ready for the mountain nights, autumn offers new colors and smells to travelers after a hot Caucasian summer. The tastiest region of all is certainly Kakheti, known for its colorful forests and endless vineyards. The entire region smells like grapes and fresh wind blowing from the nearby mountains. It is the perfect weekend getaway to celebrate the fading of the summer chill and relax from the back-to-work mood that takes over Tbilisi this time of year.

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Sighnaghi is known in Georgia as the City of Love, and is indeed a must-see destination for romantic souls. Situated on a hill, the city offers a stunning view over the Alazani Valley and quiet cobblestone streets full of courtyard restaurants and charming coffee spots. One of the main attractions is the wall which runs around the entire town. For our adventurous readers, it is possible to do some paragliding for less than $50 per person, video included, every day depending on the

weather. This is a fairly new activity in the region, which definitely has the potential to attract more adrenaline-seekers.

tourists. However, the view and the calmness of this remote place are definitely worth the trip.

Telavi is basically Sighnaghi upside down; it is not up on the hill but rather deep in the valley, surrounded by mountains reflecting the sunset all over the city. In the wintertime, their tops are cover with snow, creating an even more magical ambiance of coziness. Telavi is the capital of the Kakheti and although bigger than Sighnaghi, it is still a charming place with loads of green and home to the most well-known Georgian wineries. Wine tasting is surely among the main activities there, but in between, visitors can explore the Fortress of Batonis Tsikhe, see the 900-year-old Giant Plane Tree and relax in Nadikvari Park.

Near Telavi, the Alaverdi Monastery is a fortress-style monastery with a vineyard, facing the Tusheti mountains. The scenery is simply spectacular. If your travel plans lead you there, make sure to visit the Matsoni restaurant right in front of it.

Sitting next to the fireplace, you can enjoy a selection of the most exquisite wines from local family wineries and a delicious cheese fondue.

Spiritual awakening It is no secret that Georgia is blessed with centuries-old monasteries and holy places.

Just a few kilometers from Sighnaghi, the Bodbe Convent is perhaps the most famous and visited religious place for curious visitors and pilgrims. It is the final resting place of Saint Nino, one of the main figures in Georgian Orthodoxy. If you follow the path down the hill through the forest, you can bathe in the holy water of the monastery, known for its healing properties.

If you are more adventurous, you can take a car and head to the David Garejo Monastery at the border with Azerbaijan in the southern-most part of Kakheti near Udabno. The road is pretty damaged, and so is the site itself, which lacks renovation, making it an underrated destination for

Take a deep breath By the end of the summertime, Tbilisi can get very busy and polluted. Escaping to one of the Kakheti lakes for a weekend sounds like a much-needed retreat to make sure you start the new working year in the best condition. Kvareli Lake offers a peaceful view for city people to relax, take a step back, and enjoy long walks in the surrounding virgin forests. It is just 40 min from Telavi; home of Kindzmarauli wine, the tastiest red semi-sweet Georgian wine.

You can arrange a visit to the main wine factory in Gavazi village. Even closer to Telavi, Lopota Lake is known for its rose fragrance factories and peaceful resorts, an ideal option for a day trip.

Last but not least, nature-enthusiasts should definitely visit the Lagodekhi Natural Park in the northeastern part of Kakheti.

Different trails are available depending on your schedule, and it is possible to rent all the necessary camping equipment at the entrance to the reserve. The park has invested in education and proposes different infrastructure and exhibitions for visitors to better understand and appreci-

ate the preserved fauna and flora of this remote region.

Keep turning the pages of Where.ge to find out more about the typical cuisine and drinks of Kakheti, which take all the spotlights in Georgia during autumn time, and add a tasty side to your stay!

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Museums in Kakheti Where should one start discovering a country? Perhaps the best way is to travel around the country, meet local people, and learn about their culture and traditions. If you decide to follow this path, you cannot pass up a visit to the museums as it is in such places that one can learn about a country’s past and present, history and cultural heritage.

SIGNAGHI MUSEUM 8 Rustaveli Alley (+995) 223 24 48 Tuesday-Sunday, 10 AM - 5:30 PM Tickets: Adult –3 GEL, Student –1 GEL, School children –0.5 GEL, Children under 6 – free.

In 2009, the Signaghi Museum hosted works by Pablo Picasso followed by an exhibition of paintings by western European artists in 2010. Currently, the Signaghi Museum is hosting several permanent exhibitions.

The museum’s key attraction and pride is a rich collection of Niko Pirosmani, the self-educated 19th-20th century artist, ethnographic materials and archeological works from the Middle Ages (city life in the 4th- 18th cc. Eastern Iberia).

Until December 15

The Signaghi Museum was founded in 1947 as the Museum of Local Lore of Kiziki and in 2007 it was merged with the Georgian National Museum. The building was fully repaired and new security systems were installed. The renewed collections of the museum currently number 60,000 exhibits.

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Exhibition “Velerian Sidamon-Eristavi 130” An exhibition dedicated to the 130th anniversary of the artist, showcasing Sidamon-Eristavi’s famous and lesserknown paintings and graphic works, theatrical sketches, cartoons and caricatures. Visitors will also see archive shots from movies illustrated by the artist: “My Grandmother” (1929. Directed by Kote Mikaberidze), “Light” (1922. Directed by K. Andronikashvili), “Gogi Ratiani” (1927.

Directed by Kote Marjanishvili). In the movie “Gogi Ratiani”, along with interesting scenography, Titsian Tabidze and Dimitri Shevardnadze are shown, and in one of the episodes, Sidamon-Eristavi plays himself as a painting teacher. The exhibition also includes a collage of theater paintings.

ETHNOGRAPHY Numerous ethnographic materials, including musical instruments, tools, garments and everyday items are presented as part of the permanent exhibition at the Signaghi Museum.

MEDIEVAL ARCHEOLOGY Details of daily life as experienced in a medieval (4th-18th century) Eastern Iberian settlement can be found at the Signaghi museum Medieval Archaeology exhibition.

NIKO PIROSMANASHVILI The rich collections of the 19th-20th century self-educated artist Niko Pirosmanashvili’s are one of the main features at the Signaghi musuem.

Pirosmani was born in the village of Mirzaani, in Kakheti. His early works represent the culture of the region, known for its beautiful landscapes and winemaking. His distinctive works are of paramount importance not only for Georgian culture, but for global art.

Aleksandre Chavchavadze House-Museum at Tsinandali Tsinandali, Telavi (+995) 570 70 34 89 Daily from 10 AM to 6 PM. During winter months the museum closes one hour earlier.

café. The vineyards have been restored and wine production has resumed.

Discover the background of the noble Chavchavadze family, who played a significant part in the national history; enjoy views of the garden, explore the winery, and sample “Tsinandali” wine (first produced by the Chavchavadzes).

Museum of Gremi Eniseli, Kvareli, Kakheti (+995) 577 27 80 28

The Qvevri Wine Museum Napareuli, Telavi (+995) 242 40 42, 599 33 38 84

The price of the ticket includes fees for visiting the garden, museum, vineyard and a guide for museum exhibits. Price for schoolchildren - 3 GEL; University/college students - 4 GEL; Standard adult - 5 GEL; Standard + tasting of one sort of Georgian wine - 7 GEL; Standard + tasting of various Georgian wines 20 GEL; Visiting only the garden - 2 GEL. Prince Alexander Chavchavadze, the founder of Georgian romanticism, turned an estate in the village of Tsinandali, which he inherited from his father, into a cultural and intellectual center of the country, a status it preserves to this day.

The place regularly hosts exhibitions, concerts, literary events and master classes.

The complex in Tsinandali embraces the memorial house, a landscaped garden, a historical winery, wine cellar, hotel and a

The Qvevri Wine Museum shows all phases of qvevri-making from clay preparation to qvevri creating. See hoe qvevris are washed and how grapes ferment inside. Informative boards also let you discover the different wine-making regions past and present. Taste wine and at harvest time, press grapes in a Satsnakheli - Georgian traditional winepress Daily, 24/7 Ticket price: Adult - 15 GEL, students – 5 GEL

The reserve includes the XVI c. Archangel church, XVI c. wine cellar with winepress and possessions of merchants and nobility.

In Gremi Museum (XV c. monument – a king’s hall and three floor tower with a bell-tower) are objects unearthed in the reserve area, including Bronze Age daggers, adornments, items with animal images, a IV c. tile with an image of St. George’s hand, XII-XIII c.c. iron axes, a sling, XV c. glazed tile and brick, water pipes, XVI c. cannon, bow with arrows, church bell from the commercial district and large ceramic wine jugs and medieval cooper crockery. Also discover the paintings of Levan Chogoshvili, “Portraits of the Kings” (1985).

Daily, 10 AM – 6 PM Ticket price: Adult - 5 GEL, students and schoolchildren – 1 GEL, Guided Tour - 15 GEL.

Ilia Chavchavadze Kvareli State Museum 2 Sh. Rustaveli Str., Kvareli (+995) 599 94 49 16, 0352 22 05 11

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This complex includes the family castle and house of outstanding Georgian poet and public figure Ilia Chavchavadze (18371907) as well as an exposition hall. The museum houses memorial objects of the poet and his family, his manuscripts, sets of periodicals he established, the family coat of arms and seal, household objects, XVIII-XIX c.c. weapons, furniture, manuscripts of Georgian and foreign public figures, paintings inspired by the poet’s works (by H. Hrinewski, L. Gudiashvili, K. Guruli, S. Meskhi, T. Mirzashvili), a rich collection of photographs and archive documents, and a collection of the poet’s works in various languages.

Daily, 10 AM – 5 PM Ticket price: Adults - 2 GEL. Students and Schoolchildren - 1 GEL. Guided Tour - 5 GEL. Free of charge: Children under 6 and homeless children, employees of Museums, ICOM members, People with disabilities, soldiers, refugees.

Niko Pirosmanashvili State Museum Mirzaani, Dedoplistskaro, Kakheti (+995) 295 53 90, 577 27 80 13

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The museum offers the home of the 20th century legendary Georgian artist Niko Pirosmanishvili where several of his original works are presented in the exhibition halls. Several pictures of the most celebrated Georgian artists are also presented here, coupled with the worldfamous lithograph of Pablo Picasso “Pirosmanishvili Portrait.” The museum possesses a unique collection of old handmade kilims and carpets, one of which was woven by the artist’s mother.

The museum has a rather large set of ethnographic material that clearly reflects the traditional lifestyle of the historical province of Kizikhi.

Daily , except Monday, 1AM – 6 PM Ticket price: Adult - 5 GEL, School children and students - 1 GEL. Guided tour - 15 GEL. Free of charge: Children under 6 and homeless children. Groups: Employees of Georgian and Foreign Museums, ICOM, ICOMOS members (with valid identification), People with disabilities, soldiers, refugees.

Kote Marjanishvili House Museum 24 K. Marjanishvili Str., Kvareli, Kakheti (+995) 252 22 10 23, 599 40 15 50

The house museum of well-known Georgian theater producer Kote Marjanishvili (1872-1933) was established in 1959.

The museum keeps memorial objects (accessories, clothes, etc.) of the producer, early 20th century antiquarian furniture, carpets, crockery (Russian and French china), paintings (L. Gudiashvili, Petre Otskheli, Elene Akhvlediani etc.), graphics, sculpture, photographs, documents, books on the subject of the producer’s performances, audio-video copies of his film (“Amoki”) and performances. The museum also houses ethnographic objects typical of the region and archaeological items accidentally discovered by local people.

Daily, 11 AM – 5 PM Ticket price: Adult and students - 3 GEL, schoolchildren - 1 GEL. Free of charge: Children under 6 and homeless children, employees of Museums, ICOM members, People with disabilities, soldiers, refugees.

The Hidden Delights of the Nenskra Valley Svaneti is a distinguished part of Georgia with unique nature, mountains, culture and traditions.

In order to visit old towers, archeological and historical monuments, most tourists go to Mestia and Ushguli, but Svaneti has another distinguished part, often unjustly overlooked.

On the road to Svaneti, as you cross the Sagergili Bridge, don’t go straight on: take a left and head into Nenskra Valley and Chuberi.

Chuberi Chuberi is 80 kilometers from Zugdidi, nestled in the Nenskra Valley. It is surrounded by the Caucasus ridge and is home to 10 villages on the mountain slopes, the Nenskra River flowing between. There are two origins for the name Chuberi in Svaneti. According to the first, “Chubur” means hazelnut in Megrelian (a Georgian dialect) and as there are many hazelnut trees there, the location was named accordingly. According to the second version, the mountain from which the Nenskra river flows is named Azavchiber. That is why the locals call the Nenskra river Chubrula and the area “Chuberi.”

Today, you will find 13 guesthouses functioning in Chuberi, including guesthouse “Nenskra” which was the first to host tourists. The hotel is run by 69-yearold Melor Tsindeliani together with his family.

To the question what is the one thing visitors should not miss in Chuberi, Melor tells us: “Georgians, and especially Chuberi residents, believe that a visitor is from God. This village is the most distinguished in the entire region. Although the Upper Svaneti villages have towers and

Hotel “Nenskra” in Kvemo Marghi, Chuberi good views, when people come down from there, they note that this place has better nature compared to other parts of Svaneti.”

What else can you find in the Nenskra Valley?

• Tourist Route to Utviri Pass • Ltnari Lake • Lamkhatoba Lake • Tobuldari

• Caucasian Ibex zones • Trout fishing places • And, of course, beautiful nature Tobuldari, Lamkhatobi and Ltnari lakes are on the way to Utviri Pass. Tobuldari is 2300 m above sea level and you have to go another 5 km on foot to reach Ltnari Lake. Utviri Pass is located 2770 meters above sea level. Lamkhatobi Lake is much harder to reach, located at 3500 meters.

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Before you go hiking to Nenskra Valley Tourists use hiking routes to get to Nenskra. The transportation road goes to Tobuldari and is hard to drive, so you need to have the right driver and right car.

• You have a long way to go, so leave early in the morning • Bring hiking equipment • Do not forget the right shoes as the weather is changeable in the mountains • Always have warm clothes and a raincoat with you • Take food with you, as there is nothing but berries in the alpine zone.

The way to Utviri Pass

Ready? Let’s go on an adventure.

The road to Tobuldari goes through the forest, with mountains on both sides and mixed forests on their slopes. Here, everything has its own place: below the colorful flowers, then the wild nuts, on top deciduous trees and evergreen conifers.

Along the way, you will also find naturally clear cold water coming out of the mountain. At the end of the forest there is a lowland - probably the only lowland you will find on the way. It is surrounded by mountains, with a view to a steep alpine zone in the north and forest-covered slopes on the other side. Here, you will find all the gradations of green and a wonderful place for camping.

If you continue your way to Tobuldari, you will soon see you have left those unique forests behind you. At the destination, you will see mountain flowers, blackberry and a wooden shepherd’s hut. Not for you, though- you have to go another 15 kilometers!

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On the way to Utviri Pass you will find a heart-shaped lake. After July, this lake disappears and “sleeps” through summer.

Five 5 kilometers on foot from Tobuldari is

Ltnari Lake, but it is totally worth the walk.

If you have Lmakhatoba Lake on your compass, check out this story: Lamkha in Svan language means a lake of bad

Ltnari Lake

logs warning you that the road ahead is difficult.

Members of the Transcaucasian Trail have been marking the way to the Utviri Pass for tourists. Will, from Britain, told us that his friends had recommended him to visit Georgia. He came here for the mountains and was surprised by the greenery and berries. For Dave, who came from America, Georgian culture, people and different foods represent a new life experience. He discovered Georgia through a small article on CNN three years ago and since then, hasn’t stopped thinking about coming here. In addition, according to Megan, who is also from America, Utviri Pass is one of the most beautiful places to see in Georgia.

Special marking for tourists weather. According to legend, the lake was used in droughts. People used to throw a branch or stone in the lake, the weather used to become cloudy, and rain

came down in the valley.

As you make your way to Utviri Pass, you will find signs left on stones, trees or large

“I love Svaneti because it is huge, beautiful and diverse and I love Georgia, because people are kind, warm and hospitable.

This way is sometimes hard to pass and we’re trying to fix it so that more people will come and see this beautiful side of Georgia,” she said.

We left our friends in their tents and made our way to the village of Tita. It is ideal for those who love fish and fishing. In Tita, Gia Vibliani has a trout-fishing zone along with a family hotel. As he told as, those who do not want to catch fish make a wish and put “golden fish” back. He has been hosting visitors since 2008 and can accommodate 40 tourists and provide meals.

“When I opened my hotel, tourism was not developed at all, but our valley has great potential. It is a wonderful valley with natural lakes, beauty, Nenskra valley. It is

Trout farm

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a fascinating place for tourists with its glaciers and wild goat zones. We do not have towers and museums, but we have nature, tranquility, peace,” said Vibliani.

Locals offer hiking tours and horse-riding tours while the season is right! So hurry there, before it gets too cold.

A Chuberi Myth Beautiful Svaneti is a region of myths and legends. Here, people still believe stories of ancestors and the most famous legend refers to the goddess of hunting- Dali.

Svan people say that Dali choses men and helps them hunt. But if you tell someone about Dali, you will die. In Chuberi, we were told that a spotted tur, or wild goat (with white fur on its forehead) once entered Dali’s shepherding zone and thereafter hunters were forbidden to kill it.

Gia Vibliani’s cottages for tourists

If hunters break this rule, they will be damned with the wrath of Dali, and law enforcement officers too, as tur is in the Red Book. Hunters tell this legend to their children so they learn how to respect nature and animals from childhood.

All myths and legends coexist with reality in Svaneti. While wandering the meadows, you’ll be ready to forget all laws which put the existence of goddesses and imps into question. Fiction mixes with history and it is impossible to draw a borderline. There is nothing bad in this.

The main thing is that while you breathe the Nenskra air, you are also part of the legend along with Chuberi residents, the river Nenskra and the clouds skimming along above you.

Tobuldari

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Filmakers from Tbilisi

By Nini Dakhudaridze

Tbilisi houses a great deal of inspiration within its streets. The city not only inspired the poetry of Nikoloz Baratashvili, the “Georgian Byron,” the music of Giya Kancheli and the paintings of Elene Akhvlediani: even today, in the 21st century, Hollywood legends such as Fast & Furious are eager to film in the capital’s neighborhoods. You’d be surprised by just how much Georgia, and its capital in particular, has contributed to the filmmaking world.

Here, we put the spotlight on some of its best filmmakers.

After returning to Tbilisi, Parajanov filmed the multi-award-winning ‘The Legend of Suram Fortress’ (1985) 15 long years after Sayat Nova. He followed up with yet another brilliant movie ‘Ashik Kerib’ (1988), based on a tale by Mikhail Lermontov, dedicating the film to his friend Andrei Tarkovsky. But his time in the labor camps had left its mark and he died in July 1990, unable to finish his final masterpiece, ‘The Confession.’ IMDb reports that the unfinished The Confession was saved in its original negative in ‘Parajanov: The Last Spring’ (1992) by his closest friend Mikhail Vartanov.

Sergei Parajanov Sergei Parajanov, one of the greatest creative minds in filmmaking history, was born in Tbilisi to Armenian parents. Though it was difficult to break through with one’s creativity within the strict regime of the USSR, Parajanov’s nature of genius could not be stopped.

Parajanov was born on January 9, 1924.

His father was Iosif Parajanian and his mother was Siranush Bejanian. Parajanov moved to Kyiv, where he created many documentaries, including the phenomenal ‘Shadows of Forgotten Ancestors.’ The movie won countless international awards, including the British Academy Award.

Unsurprisingly, Shadows of Forgotten Ancestors failed to conform to the standards of Soviet cinema and Parajanov was immediately blacklisted.

Parajanov’s 1968 film ‘Sayat Nova,’ considered his masterpiece, was banned

by Soviet authorities, re-edited and re-named ‘The Color of Pomegranates.’ In 1973, the Soviet government arrested Parajanov and sentenced him to five years hard labor. He served four horrible years in prison for his magnificent art. Notably, poet Louis Aragon’s petition to the Soviet government was instrumental in securing Parajanov’s release.

The legendary Armenian-Georgian filmmaker who had a great say in 20th century cinema, unfortunately, is not very widely known today. However, his ‘The Color of Pomegranates’ left an impeccable mark on the world of filmmaking.

Rouben Mamoulian Rouben Mamoulian was born on October 8, 1897, in

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From 16 films, Mamoulian directed two actors to Oscar nominations: Fredric March, who was named Best Actor for Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde in 1931, and Miriam Hopkins, who was awarded Best Actress for her performance in ‘Becky Sharp’ in 1935. Becky Sharp was also the first three-strip Technicolor film.

Tbilisi (Tiflis, then the Russian Empire) as Rouben Zachary Mamoulian. Like Parajanov, Mamoulian had Armenian descent. He started his career directing plays in England and later in America, where, after directing for Broadway, Mamoulian eventually tested his luck in filmmaking. He spent many of his creative years working in the United States. Over his 29-year career in the film industry, Mamoulian directed 16 movies.

He was a director and writer, known for Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (1931), Applause (1929) and The Gay Desperado (1936).

His creative influence was so great that his films sometimes carried the credit ‘A Rouben Mamoulian Production,’ even though he never produced any films. It is noteworthy that Mamoulian was also the first to stage the Broadway works: Oklahoma! (1943), Carousel (1945) and Lost in the Stars (1949).

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Mamoulian, reported that he was more interested in creating a poetic look to his films than in showing ordinary realism.

Becky Sharp and ‘Blood and Sand’ are manifestations of that statement.

Mamoulian was married to Azadia Newman, a Washington DC-born artist.

He died on December 4, 1987, in Woodland Hills, Los Angeles, California.

Mikheil Kalatozishvili Mikheil Kalatozishvili was born on December 28, 1903, in Tbilisi (Tiflis) as Mikhail Kalatozishvili.

He is better known by his Russian name – Mikhail Kalatozov. Kalatozishvili greatly contributed to both Georgian and Russian cinema. The legendary director and cinematographer’s most important movies include ‘The Cranes Are Flying’ (1957) and ‘True Friends’ (1954). Kalatozishvili also had several documentary films to his name, including ‘Their Kingdom,’ with Nutsa Gogoberidze, the first Georgian female film director, and ‘Salt for Svanetia’ (1930).

In 1923, Kalatozishvili started establishing himself in the Georgian film industry first

as an actor, cameraman and editor, before graduating to directing in 1928.

His four final features, The Cranes Are Flying, ‘The Unsent Letter’ (1959), ‘I Am Cuba’ (1964), and ‘The Red Tent’ (1969), are among his most famous works. The Cranes Are Flying, the movie that he is best known for, became one of the leaders of the 1957 Soviet box office and won several international awards, including the Palme d’Or at the 1958 Cannes Film Festival. His film The Red Tent, which was a joint Soviet-Italian effort and featured an

Gia Danelia

international team of actors (including Peter Finch, Sean Connery), was nominated for the 1972 Golden Globe award as the best English-language foreign film.

During the 1990s, I Am Cuba was re-discovered by American film professionals. The movie was showed to Martin Scorsese and Francis Ford Coppola who were so impressed with it that they advocated for the restoration and distribution of the movie. In 1995, it was nominated for the Independent Spirit Award for Best International Film.

Kalatozishvili was married to Zhanna Valachi, daughter of the Italian Consul. In 1929, their son Giorgi was born.

Kalatozishvili’s son and grandson Giorgi and Mikhail followed in his footsteps and also worked in the film industry. To help film preservation and funding new movies Mikheil Kalatozishvili founded a Mikhail Kalatozov Fund.

Mikhail Kalatozov died in Moscow on March 27, 1973, and was buried at the Novodevichy Cemetery.

Gia Danelia, better known as Georgi Daneliya, was born on August 25, 1930, in Tbilisi. In 1939, his family moved to Moscow.

Danelia is best known for the controversial Soviet film ‘33’ and Georgian-Russian masterful comedy ‘Mimino.’

Danelia first earned his architect’s degree from the Moscow Architecture Institute. His mother, a former chess player, worked at Mosfilm in Moscow, where Danelia studied the Higher Director’s Courses under Mikhail Romm, and graduated in 1959, becoming a film director at the Mosfilm Studios.

Daneliya created a universe of allusions in his innovative film ‘Kin-Dza-Dza’ (1986).

The movie stands out as a genre of its own, and in 1989, Danelia was named People’s Artist of the USSR. His first wife was actress Lyubov Sokolova (1921-2001). The pair had an outstanding loving relationship before they parted in 1984 when Danelia left her for Galina Ivanovna Yurkova, marrying her the same year. Sokolova played 370 film roles and is listed in the Guinness Book of Records.

Their son Nikolai Daneliya (1958-1985) was a promising film director, poet, and artist but died tragically at the age of 26.

Danelia lived in Moscow and was working on a new project, an animation sequel to ‘Kin-Dza-Dza’ before he died in 2019, on April 4.

In 1960, Danelia had his first recognized success, shared with Igor Talankin. Their film ‘Seryozha’ (1960) was awarded the Crystal Globe in Karlovy Vary. Danelia worked on a propaganda-free project about life in Moscow together with Gennady Shpalikov. When Nikita Khrushchev was dismissed by Leonid Brezhnev, the thaw that had ensured no censorship troubles ended and Daneliya’s ‘33’ was immediately labeled anti-Soviet by the head of the KGB, Vladimir Semichastny.

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Assyrians in the Village of Kanda

By Beka Alexishvili

of all Assyrians�. In addition, the Patriarch recommended him to learn Aramaic, the language of Jesus Christ, and perform public worship in the presence of Assyrians in this language. Currently, Father Seraphime lives in the village of Kanda.

Father Seraphime is distinguished for his talent for singing prayers, which he demonstrated at Svetitskhoveli Cathedral during the Pope’s visit to Georgia, mesmerizing the notable guest.

Assyrian by origin and speaking the native language Aramaic, deacon Father Seraphime is a dweller who best demonstrates the above. The deacon lived an ordinary life, was practicing Eastern wrestling and representing the head of security of a government member in Ukraine until he reached the age of 24.

Georgian history has always been tumultuous, as it has witnessed many political and cultural shifts. Despite these instabilities, Georgians have managed to maintain their hospitality towards arriving settlers and displaced communities. This concept perfectly applies to the Assyrians living in the village of Kanda, in north-west Georgia.

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However, particular developments that took place through the path of his life, including a devastating trauma experienced as a result of an accident in early childhood, lead to some major changes in his vision of the world and made him take up the mantle of a priest. And the Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia Ilia II has greatly impacted the shifts in the direction of his life, having presented young Father Seraphime as a “Confessor

His village of residence is equally worthy of note, its population having preserved the Aramaic language and even after 20 centuries continuing to speak it. The language is also of crucial importance for the Orthodox community, as St. Nino preached Christianity across Georgia (known as Iberia at the time) in Aramaic.

There are no particular annals on the story of formation of the village Kanda and its population. The only known record states that Assyrians arrived on Georgian land from the territories of Iran, Iraq, Turkey, as well as Syria, after the genocide in 1833.

Today, there are more than 2,000 ethnic Assyrians living in Kanda and following their particular lifestyles. There are two churches in the village, founded in 1997 and 2013 respectively, where the service is held in Georgian and Aramaic. The community also develops the field of culture and is outstanding in its folklore, including dances and songs.

“A FASCINATING SHOW TO SEE IN TBILISI!”

22/29 OCT 5/12/19/26 NOV

INFO & TICKETS: WWW.MUSICAL.GE +995 551 56 00 33

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AT MUSIC AND DRAMA STATE THEATRE 182 AGHMASHENEBELI AVENUE

Architecture as an Ingredient for Exploring Tbilisi

By Ketevan Kvaratskheliya

Georgia is distinguished for its diverse culture and interesting history, which is boldly reflected on the architecture of its ancient capital Tbilisi. Sharply contrasting styles of architecture, creating a sort of a chaos, is one of the first things that catch the eyes of visitors to the city.

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Through its multiple, picturesque districts, Tbilisi is very much like a time machine, hosting guests, as well as locals, in different epochs and offering them a unique experience in each. Some sections of the city are presented with old buildings, alleyways leading to courtyards and

spiral staircases, where the time has taken its toll. There you can feel the air of the 19th century and revive the lifestyle of Tbilisians of that time, as well as the cult of the neighborhood. In the old part of the city, outstanding for its mesmerizing palette of colors, ancient sulphur baths and

eclectic wooden houses, perched on the sides of mountains, gives an opportunity to take a ‘journey’ to the earlier eras and discover the true Georgian spirit with its hospitality. In addition, Old Tbilisi is a place that demonstrates the entire history of Georgia, a country considered a gateway from Europe to Asia, as, from Orthodox Christian and Armenian churches to a Muslim mosque and a Jewish synagogue, here you can observe the colorful yet harmonic mélange and co-existence of completely different cultures and religions. The influence of neighbors on the history of the country is also felt well in this part of Tbilisi. Walking through a ‘labyrinth’ of narrow streets, packed with numerous shops and eateries with artisan Georgian crafts and the best of the

country’s cuisine, is nothing short of a pleasure.

For those who are not history enthusiasts, Tbilisi also has something interesting to offer. Even though the seven decades of the Soviet regime have left a strong footprint on Georgia, including its architecture, through the cultural revolution the country has undergone for the past few years, it has smartly adapted a number of gloomy constructions of the former Soviet Union and transformed them into the most vibrant and trendiest spots of the Georgian capital. For example, hotel and café Stamba, which is at the top of the list of ‘must-visit’ eateries, was a publishing house back in the 20th century, whereas Fabrika, once a sewing factory, is one of

the best loved nighttime hang-outs. The Bank of Georgia chose a Soviet venue for its headquarters, an 18-story “Lego brick” building, formerly the Georgian SSR’s Ministry of Highway Construction.

The Shota Rustaveli Avenue, the major artery of the city, is also worth spotlighting, clearly demonstrating the juxtaposition between old and new. Here, you can discover the Baroque style building of the Rustaveli Theater and Tbilisi Classical Gymnasium and observe the 19th century European influence, as well as the ultra-modern glass construction of a luxury hotels and a shopping mall, an inseparable part of the 21st century.

Through its diversity, Tbilisi is fascinating for everyone.

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Georgian Post Photos: www.gpost.ge

By Katie Ruth Davies

Mail exchange between Vladikavkaz and Tbilisi went solely through horse-ride message forwarding.

By the year 1913 there were 108 post offices functioning across Georgia.

The number of horses at the post offices increased up to 652.

The postal service in Georgia has a long history. In ancient times, news was transferred rapidly across the country through couriers and messengers, a fact spoken about in ‘Kartlis Tskhovreba (“Life of Kartli”). By the end of the 19th century,

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an important representative of the Georgian economical thought, Ioane Batonishvili, helped set up postal stations to encourage trade in “Kartli, Kakheti and among Tatars.”

1879

Bullock carts were the first postal carriers in Georgia, and were among the very first means of postal transportation in the world. Some examples of these carts can be seen at the Popov Central Museum of Communications (in Saint Petersburg). The

“technology” of bullock carts seems to have been much admired. A book called “Technology and Industry” (volume 10) translated from German to Russian in 1900, describes several unique exhibits of the Berlin Postal Museum: “among the Russian exhibits in the museum, pictures of postal transfers using the two-wheel Georgian carts are particularly interesting.” One of the catalogues at the Popov Museum states that there were a model of a Georgian bullock cart and a painting describing the transportation of post over the Caucasus presented at the Postal Exhibition in 1893 in Chicago. The improvement of the circulation of mail from Georgia to Russia through the Caucasus was directly linked to the development of postal networks in Georgia.

In 1805 the first postal office was opened in Tbilisi.

In 1826 an additional 120 horses were appointed for mail transportation.

From 1832 some of the postal offices on the postal path belonged to individuals while later, from 1836, the offices were given to the ownership of State postal departments.

In 1879 the newspaper “Droeba” (S. Meskhi - article “Upotchtoba” [“No Post”])

wrote - “Most of Georgia, except the cities and settlements located by the railway, receive mail only two or three times a week… I think it is high time that the management of the post and our government paid enough attention to these circumstances; our life is not what it used to be twenty years ago: trade and production in our country is increasing daily, there are more schools and more people who know how to read and write and would like to know about the post, the ply and communication between the people of different provinces has nearly doubled. Besides, even the governors themselves need well-organized post and correspondence.” Meskhi thought that it was better if postal services became more expensive so that the organization would improve: “If there is post and people can receive books and newspapers on time, nobody will mind spending a little extra,” the newspaper wrote.

The expansion of the postal network and opening of post offices in different regions of Georgia, particularly villages, meant a lot. The newspaper “Iveria” noted that post brought people closer to each other, upped trade and spread education. It was widely realized that the more post offices there were, the easier it would be for people to use the benefits of the postal service. The postal network developed gradually and today, with the unprecedented growth of electronic communication, the Georgian Post founded in 1995 by “the Ministry of Post and Telecommunications of Georgia” with a 100% State share, is still keeping its unique place providing a universal postal service across Georgia.

By the year 1913 there were 108 post offices functioning across Georgia In 1993, Georgia became a member of the Universal Postal Union. The membership of this union is very important to Georgia since it provides the opportunity for the Georgian postal network to be integrated with the Universal Postal Union networks.

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Urban Makeover: the First Tbilisi Mural Fest

By Lorraine Vaney

It was just a matter of time before Tbilisi got its first large-scale street art festival.

From 17 - 25 September, the Tbilisi Mural Fest welcomed Dutch, German and Georgian artists to transform 10 of the most exposed walls in different neighborhoods into monumental paintings.

The festival was made possible thanks to the artistic synergy between Dudana, pianist and former cultural attachĂŠ at the Georgian Embassy to Berlin, and her husband Besik Mazmanishvili, who is an artist himself. Where.ge met Dudana at her place in Tbilisi on the second day of

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the festival. The floor was almost fully covered with cardboard boxes and spray cans.

“We starting imagining this festival together with our friends and contacts in Berlin. And because it is the number one city for street art, it is the focus of this first edition.”

Tbilisi and Berlin have a similar taste for alternative and street culture, and the festival is bringing them even closer.

Comparing the two cities is quite common, with Tbilisi sometimes presented as the “new Berlin” for its creative dynamism resulting from its recent complicated history.

“But Tbilisi is not Berlin, it has its own identity and potential. Tbilisi has made a name for herself, and street art can continue building up its reputation as a beautiful and dynamic place to visit,” says Dudana.

Street art has become an important part of the urban identity of cities and of their attraction. City Halls have increasingly supported street artists, transforming rough graffiti into masterpieces. The reception of street art has thus evolved, and in the midst of the recent Tbilisian creative boom, street art was the next field to come under the spotlight and Tbilisi City Hall was thus easy to convince.

said, “We hope to continue supporting significant and useful projects like this one in the future.”

Street art is indeed a significant art form as it is a powerful medium to bring social issues to the public space and to reclaim the urban environment. The recent political turmoils, the constant architectural mutation and the ongoing cultural revolution are paving the way for street art to further develop in Tbilisi. This will surely inspire the artists, who have complete freedom over their work during the festival.

“Some of the artists are more spontaneous than others. When you’re an artist, you may have a sketch, but you also work with the space, the environment and the vibe of the city, so your initial idea can change completely when you’re on site.”

To find out the final results, you can go to the facebook page of the Tbilisi Mural Fest to check the exact location of the artworks on their map. The organizers will also launch an app by the end of the year, referencing all street art pieces in the city.

“They were very supportive from the start.

The city helped us to select very good murals in different locations, and spread street art all over the city. We will expand the area every year.” Private partners also joined the project, such as Re Bank, a retail banking brand from PASHA Bank.

Anano Korkia, Head of PR and Marketing

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Discover Georgia through its Breathtaking Traditional Dance

By Ketevan Kvaratskheliya

Dancing represents one of the unalienable parts of a country’s history and customs, as well as one of the best ways of enculturation. Traditional dances not only comprise a performance of a group of people, it is a very complex concept, involving traditional music, costumes and a number of folk accessories. Dancing is a tool for displaying character and the temper of a nation or a community.

Georgia is certainly very rich and diverse in terms of folk dances, representing a vital part of the cultural heritage passed down through generations, as all of the regions of the country have their own, unique dances, perfectly demonstrating the diversity of Georgia, its people, customs,

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as well as a tinge of influence of neighboring states. Georgian dance perfectly reflects the chastity and gracefulness of females and courage and fiery temper of males.

audiences with incredible techniques and beautiful movements, obtained worldwide recognition and demonstrated that there is no analogue to the unique Georgian dancing culture anywhere else.

Georgian dance is honorably represented by a number of ensembles, including National Georgian Ballet Sukhishvili (also known as Sukhishvilebi), Rustavi and Erisioni, which for decades have spared no effort to maintain the ancient traditions of folklore, revive some of them and introduce the centuries-long history and culture of Georgia to the rest of the world through dance. All these ensembles have successfully filled numerous concert halls around the entire globe, mesmerized

Founded by legendary couple Iliko Sukhishvili and Nino Ramishvili back in 1945, Sukhishvilebi is distinguished for its great role in the preservation and development of Georgian dance. Through incredibly hard work and permanent striving for improvement, Sukhishvili-Ramishvili gave new life to traditional folk dances, upgraded them to a completely new level and created a new ‘label’ for Georgian dancing.

Ensemble Sukhisvilebi is also a symbol of the unity of generations in Georgia, as today, the great work of the founders of the ensemble is continued by their grandchildren Iliko Sukhishvili Jr. and Nino Sukhishvili. The work of the descendants of the legendary couple is nothing short of spectacular, as alongside the preservation of traditions, they have introduced a completely innovative approach and new elements to the Georgian dance, through which they demonstrate that old and new can be combined, and that there are no frames to the Georgian dances.

Iliko and Nino Sukhishvili have made a new statement in the universe of Georgian dancing culture, offering unforgettable and unique experience to viewers.

Here are some dances to keep an eye out for:

is typically performed by couples at wedding receptions.

Kartuli, translated in English as ‘Georgian,’ is top of the list of the most important and popular traditional pieces.

Performed by two partners, a male and a female, Kartuli is a gentle and romantic dance, perfectly demonstrating the tender attitude of men towards women, the majesty and grace of females, and the proud courage of males. In Kartuli, there is a special sequence in the flow of the dance, with the man inviting his partner to dance yet keeping a respectable distance once she accepts. Kartuli is recognized as one of the most difficult Georgian dances, with the men flicking their feet rapidly and the women gliding on their toes. This piece

Acharuli, a dance from the region of Ajara, is also about the relationship between men and women: a lighthearted, cheerful and exceptionally energetic piece, performed in colorful costumes.

Simd comes from the region of Ossetia and its choreography is nothing short of perfection, as here you can observe the performance of male and female dancers, wearing traditional black and white clothing with remarkably long sleeves, following strict line formations and moving around each other with ease and virtuosity.

Considering the history of Georgia, it will come as no surprise that the theme of war and fighting is also present in dance.

Mtiuluri, a dance from the highlands of the country, is the best proof of that. The piece is distinguished for stunning movements, twists, jumps and turns, performed by male dancers who ‘compete’ with each other, demonstrating their courage and fiery temper. The dance is then continued by the appearance of women, who bring ease and beauty to the performance.

Khorumi, yet another dance from Ajara, comes on the final note, representing the symbol of unity of Georgian men in wars.

Traditionally, the dance is performed only by men with an odd number of dancers.

The roots of Khorumi lie in the period of the heroic wars against the invading armies of the Turks, Mongols, and other nations and sees the dancers enacting seek-and-retreat motions before marching, linked, across the stage. In its modern interpretation, nearly 30 dancers perform together.

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Welcome to David Makharashvili’s pixelvision!

David Makharashvili (53) spent the past 21 years living in the United States and holding strong ties with Georgia by keeping his dual citizenship. He’s an Environmental and Health and Safety consultant in New York City and right now is in the process of starting a restaurant business in Georgia, near the ancient cave-town of Uplistsikhe, near Gori.

“My first steps in photography were made when I was around 10, in our basement, under a red light, together with my friends,” he says.

“We were trying to figure out how 35mm film works. After several tries and unsuccessful attempts, all we had was a bunch of completely black films, which were perfect to have fun with by burning them.”

David’s current profession requires photo documentation of the work progress and so he always has a camera in his hands. He uses simple digital cameras and while working, has the chance to look at the environment around him and take pictures.

“A few years ago, a friend of mine who knows photography to a professional level, saw my pictures and suggested I buy a better digital camera,” he says.

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In November 2016, he bought a Nikon D7200, and since then he’s been a “photoholic.”

“From the rainbow of fresh and bright colors of spring in Central Park, magnificent vivid tones of New Jersey foliage, natural mono-colors of New York City winter, finally to the long summer days of Ocean shores, overloaded with sunlight, it fuels me every time to take a picture!” he notes.

“Every day in New York City I see breathtaking views of Manhattan landmarks: a spectacular marriage of last century’s architecture with modern glassy skyscrapers. How can I pass it by without trying to take shot?

Photography became my hobby and I’m really enjoying every shot I am taking. My biggest dream is to expose Georgia with my vision, and I know, one day my dream will come true.”

Welcome to David Makharashvili’s pixelvision!

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Events Calendar theater GIFT FESTIVAL PROGRAM 2019 October 19, 20 FESTIVAL OPENING MAY B Choreography- Maguy Marin Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 8-40 GEL Venue: Rustaveli Theater October 22 FESTIVAL TALKS with Dario Facal and Carlota Ferrer Modern Spanish Theater Venue: Rustaveli Theater, VIP Room Start time: 15:00

Scenography by Carlota Ferrer and Miguel Delgado Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 8-50 GEL Venue: Rustaveli Theater

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November 3

October 27 Levan Khetaguri Master Class for Young Theater Critics Venue: Rustaveli Theater, VIP Room Start time: 15:00 October 30 GOOD MORNING HUNDRED BUCKS! Directed by Keti Dolidze Set design by Mamuka Tkeshelashvili Venue: Giga Lortkipanidze Rustavi State Drama Theater Start time: 20:00

October 23

GIFT, in association with the Spanish Arts Council Acción Cultural Española (AC/E), presents SPANISH CULTURE FOCUS 2019 Teatros De Canal and Draft.inn (Meine Seele S.L.) present: “Esto no es la casa de Bernarda Alba” (This is not Bernarda Alba’s House) Dramaturgy by Carlota Ferrer and José Manuel Mora Directed by Carlota Ferrer

Venue: Giga Lortkipanidze Rustavi State Drama Theater Start time: 20:00

Aurelia Thierrée Presents Bells & Spells Direction– Victoria Thiérrée-Chaplin Starring– Aurélia Thiérrée and Jaime Martinez In co-production with Théâtre les Célestins, Lyon Théâtre Atelier Carouge, Genève Change Performing Arts, Milano Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 8-50 GEL Venue: Marjanishvili Theater November 2 DIARY OF A MADMAN A STORY BY NIKOLAI GOGOL Directed and Designed

by Soso Nemsadze

November 4 GIFT- Georgian International Festival of Arts in Tbilisi and IRA KOKHREIDZE’S INCLUSIVE THEATER Presents Philosophical inclusive theater performance CONTACT With English subtitles Stage director: Ira Kokhreidze Scenography / Coordinator- George Mikaberidze Music: Bachi Tomadze (FOREST) Scenario: Ira Kokhreidze, George Mikaberidze Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 8-12 GEL Venue: Rustaveli Theater

November 5 Valery Kharyutchenko, with the support of the Griboedovi Theater and Shota Rustaveli Theater and Film Georgia State University, presents Homeric Art Mystery TURBULENCE AREA, OR IN SEARCH FOR A LOST PARADISE The stage version of the play by E. Albee “What happened at the zoo” Venue: Griboedovi Theater Start time: 20:00 November 7

Music Adapted by Ihor Sablin Start time: 20:00 Venue: K. Marjanishvili State Drama Theater (The Roof)

Crossroads to Synchronicity Venue: Rustaveli Theater Start time: 20:00 November 17,18,19 WORLD PREMIERE KING LEAR. REIMAGINATION OF ANDRIY ZHOLDAK Based on William Shakespeare’s play “The Tragedy of King Lear” Start time: 20:00 Venue: Griboedov Theater

CAÍDA DEL CIELO (Fallen from Heaven) A show by Rocío Molina Venue: Griboedovi Theater Start time: 20:00 November 13 NATALIA MENENDEZ THEATER LABORATORY Venue: Rustaveli Theater Start time: 20:00 November 15, 16 GIFT FESTIVAL presents a living legend, inseparable from the history of contemporary dance- Ms. Carolyn Carlson, with her company and the Georgian Premier of

Tbilisi International Festival of Theater 2019

October 16 Roy Oppenheim & Ido Ricklin (E)MOTION WITHOUT MOVEMENT A musical fantasy for orchestra, actor and video art Directed by Ido Ricklin & Roy Oppenheim Composer- Zohar Sharon Video Art- Yoav cohen Choreographer- Miri Lazar Start time: 20:00 Venue: K. Marjanishvili State Drama Theater (The Roof) October 19 Mattia Carretti Dökk Direction and Executive Production: Mattia Carretti, Luca Camellini Concept: Mattia Carretti Performer, Choreographer: Elena Annovi Software Supervision: Luca Camellini Software: Paolo Bonacini, Matteo Mestucci, Samuel Pietri Sound Design: Riccardo Bazzoni Hardware Engineering: Matteo Mestucci Production Manager: Filippo Aldovini Support for Concept Development: Giulia Caselli Scientific Consultant: Margherita Carretti Start time: 20:00 Venue: K. Marjanishvili State Drama Theater (The Roof)

October 14 Women Neil Simon Genre: Comedy Directed by Cicino Kobiashvili Designer- Irina Klimenchenko Choreographer- Svitlana Melnuk

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October 24 Molière Tartuffe Genre: Comedy Directed by Oskaras Koršunovas Composer: Gintaras Sodeika Designer: Vytautas Narbutas Choreographer: Vesta Grabštait Photographer: Dmitrijus Matvejevas Start time: 20:00 Venue: Griboedovi Theater

October 16, 25, 26 RAMONA Revaz Gabriadze Directed by Revaz Gabriadze English Subtitles Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 20, 30 GEL October 18, 22, 29 Animated documentary film REZO Directed by Leo Gabriadze Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 15 GEL

Tbilisi Opera and Ballet Theater 25 Rustaveli Ave. October 16-18 Nathalie Premiere

Participants: Nino Surguladze, Khatuna Chokhonelidze, Marika Machitidze, Shalva Mukeria, Armaz Darashvili, Gocha Datusani, Tbilisi Opera and Ballet Theater Choir and Orchestra.

Conductor- Zaza Azmaiparashvili Program: Giuseppe Verdi, Rigoletto IV act, Macbeth I act Start time: 19:00 Ticket: 10-200 GEL

Gabriadze Theater Ballet in two acts Choreography by August Bournonville New choreographic version and staging

by Frank Andersen and Dinna Bjørn Reconstructed by Frank Andersen, Dinna Bjørn, Eva Kloborg and Anne Marie Vessel Schlüter Music by Carl Christian Møller Orchestration by Zurab Nadareishvili Tbilisi Z. Paliashvili Opera and Ballet State Theater Orchestra Conductor- Henrik Vagn Christensen Start time: 19:00 Ticket: 10-200 GEL October 30 Lado Ataneli 30 Years on the World’s Opera Stages

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14 Shavteli Str. October 15, 17, 27 STALINGRAD Revaz Gabriadze Directed by Revaz Gabriadze English Subtitles Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 20, 30 GEL October 11, 19, 20, 23, 24, 30, 31 THE AUTUMN OF MY SPRINGTIME Revaz Gabriadze Directed by Revaz Gabriadze English Subtitles Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 20, 30 GEL

Shalikashvili Theater 37 Rustaveli Ave. October 18, 29 Abiglukoza Language: Non-verbal Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 15 GEL October 25, 26 STOP AIDS Language: Non-verbal Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 15 GEL

Movement Theater 182 Agmashenebli Ave. October 19 FAUST

Based on the work of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe Directed by Kakha Bakuradze Music: Sandro Nikoladze Language: Non-verbal Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 10, 15 GEL

CENTURIES NUMISMATIC TREASURY EXHIBITION STONE AGE GEORGIA ARCHEOLOGICAL TREASURE NEW LIFE TO THE ORIENTAL COLLECTIONS Until December 15 The first-ever exhibition of a remarkable coin from the time of King David the Builder The inscription on the coin reflects the major line of Georgia’s foreign policy at the time – the obverse shows Kind David IV dressed in Byzantine imperial attire, wearing stemma, and holding a Globus cruciger. On the reverse is an invocation in Georgian surrounding a cross listing the extent of David’s kingdom: ‘Lord, aid David, king of Abkhazians, Kartvelians, Rans, Kakhs, Armenians.’

October 26 THE TEMPEST Based on the work of William Shakespeare Directed by Ioseb Bakuradze Composer: Sandro Nikoladze Language: Non-verbal Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 10, 15 GEL

MUSEUMS Georgian National Museum Simon Janashia Museum 3 Sh. Rustaveli Ave. Exhibitions: GEORGIAN COSTUME AND WEAPONRY OF THE 18TH-20TH

MUSEUM OF SOVIET OCCUPATION 3 Sh. Rustaveli Ave.

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.

Until November 30 Exhibition ‘Wisdom Transformed into Gold’ Supported by the EU With ancient archaeological finds, the exhibition presents for the first time gold jewelry of Late Antiquity (2nd-4th century AD), goldsmiths’ tools from the Museum’s ethnographic collection, and items made from gold and precious metals.

Discover the Museum of Illusions Be brave enough to jump into an illusion created by the Vortex, deform the image 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 numerous baffling optical illusions.

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Museum of Broken Relationships 10 Betlemi Str.

THE MUSEUM OF BROKEN RELATIONSHIPS

The National Gallery brings together 55 artworks of Tintoretto, Guerchino, Bernando Strozzi, Antonio Canaletto, Giovanni Lorenzo Bernini and other painters. Visitors will discover the major painting schools of Northern Italy from the 16th-18th centuries - from Bologna (Giuseppe Maria Crespi) to Genoa (Givanni Batista Paggi, Gioacchino Assereto, Giovanni Francesco Castiglione) and from Lombardy (Pier Francesco Mazzucchelli, Pier Francesco Cittadini) to Veneto (Bonifacio de’ Pitati, Carlo Caliari, Francesco Maffei, Nicola Grassi).

ArtTent Gallery 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 experienced break-ups.

Start time: 19:30 Ticket: 10-28 GEL

MONUMENT 32 R. Agladze Str. October 11 VINI VICI- Tbilisi

Mtatsminda Hill

gallery The National Gallery 11 Shota Rustaveli Ave. Until February 26 (2020) GRAND MASTERS FROM THE GEORGIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM COLLECTION XIX – XX CENTURY Until November 20 The Georgian National Museum and the Embassy of Italy in Georgia present the exhibition “The Form of Color from Tintoretto to Canaletto” from Trieste’s National Gallery of Ancient Art. The Gallery displays three centuries of Italian painting, from the late Renaissance to the Rococo.

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October 11-18 Migration Exhibition of Georgian Artist Ia Liparteliani

MUSIC Djansug Kakhidze Tbilisi Center for Music and Culture 123a D. Agmashenebeli Ave. October 17 In the frames of the 27th International Music festival “Autumn Tbilisi” The concert of youth choir “Tutarchela” from Rustavi Artistic leader and Choir master - Tamar Buadze

A project from Aviram Saharai & Matan Kadosh, a well-known and experienced electronic music producer for more than a decade Start time: 23:00 Ticket: 40-50 GEL October 12 Oscar and The Wolf Start time: 21:30 Ticket: 50-60 GEL

Tbilisi Concert Hall 1 Melikishvili Ave. October 12 Group FORTE Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 15-40 GEL

October 19 DIGITALGIFT Music Series Vol I French band Telepopmusik Start time: 23:00 Ticket: 30 GEL

KHIDI October 13, 14 SUKHISHVILEBI Renewed program Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 15-50 GEL November 21 Peter Bence FIX Group Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 10-90 GEL

Space Lounge 22 Bakhtrioni Str. October 19 Zaza Nozadze (Sf-x) Live Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 10 GEL

Spacehall Dinamo Arena

V. Bagrationi Bridge, right Emb.

October 24 Circe- Experimental Platform for Dance and Theater and Goethe-Institut Georgien present a performance and music concert.

Performance by Yuko Kasesi– W!O!man MADe- 20:00, Concert by Valerie Renay- 22:00 Credits: Concept/ Direction/ Choreography/ Dance: Yuko Kaseki Live Music /Performance: Valerie Renay Co-Direction /Visual design: Teo Vlad Costume/Stage Design: Yuko Kaseki Ticket: 20-25 GEL Warehouse 7 / VII Pavilion 30/32 Akhalkalaki Str. November 2 Fall Set Part 2– Boris Brejcha Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 50-90 GEL November 22 Deborah De Luca Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 50 GEL

Rustaveli Theater 17 Rustaveli Ave. November 4 Artists Union ConceptArt presents project NostalgieGeorgian composer Enri Lolashvili’s soundtracks for movies and selected compositions, created in France while the composer lived there.

Participants: Nino Katamadze, Liza Bagrationi, Nikoloz Rachveli, Giorgi Zagareli, Sandro Nebieridze, David Malazonia, Papuna Sharikadze, David Japaridze, Levan Deisadze, Zaza Tsertsvadze, Rezo Kiknadze, Levan Kemularia, Trinity Cathedral Choir, conductor- Svimon Jangulashvili, Abkhazian State Choir, conductor- Zviad Bolkvadze, Georgian Philharmonic Orchestra, conductor- Paata Tsetskhladze Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 15-45 GEL

Tsinandali Estate Tsinandali, Kakheti October 19 Jazz and Wine Jazz & Wine Festival Programme: 1 PM- Tsinandali Park: Test-drive, Tesla 3.

2 PM- Tsinandali Estate Amphitheater: Sugarpie & The Candymen (IT) style swing; Maurizio Siciliano Cooking Show; 7 PM- Tsinandali Estate Amphitheater: OZ NOY TRIO - Jimmy Haslip & Dennis Chambers (USA) Style: Jazz-Rock, Fusion 10 PM- Tsinandali Estate Amphitheater: MF Robots (UK) style: Disco -Funk Start time: 13:00 Ticket: 150-200

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listing: Casinos PRINCESS CASINO BATUMI 33 M. Abashidze Str., Batumi TEL (+995) 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 (+995) 32 247 14 71

ambassadori 17 Shavteli Str., 0105, Tbilisi, Georgia TEL (+995) 32 211 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

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Grand 48 Vaja-Pshavela Ave. TEL (+995) 32 239 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 (+995) 32 271 10 10, (+995) 32 236 43 60

SHANGRI LA CASINO TBILISI River Mtkvari Right Embankment, Near the Bridge of Peace TEL (+995) 32 220 07 01

Casino Iveria

Casino Iveria

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

Republic (Rose Revolution) Sq. TEL (+995) 32 240 22 45

Casino Jewel 29 Shota Rustaveli Ave. TEL (+995) 32 260 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.

Welmond Casino 2/4 Shavsheti Str., Batumi TEL (+995) 422 242 020

Casino International 40 Rustaveli Str., Batumi TEL (+995) 422 23 00 23

CASINO EUROPEBET 5 Chavchavadze St., Batumi (+995) 32 219 40 00

CASINO BATUMI GOLDEN PALACE 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 (+995) 32 233 55 19 Casino Adjara opened its doors in 1998 and became an immediate hit in the

8/10 K. Gamsakhurdia St., Batumi (+995) 568 00 44 44

Eclipse Casino 1 Lech and Maria Kaczynski Str., Batumi TEL (+995) 557 11 00 00

Peace Casino 2/21 Vazha Pshavela/Ninoshvili Str., Hotel Sheraton, Batumi TEL (+995) 557 77 00 00

CASINO AjaraBET 7a Akhmeteli St., 10 Agmashenebeli St., Batumi (+995) 32 271 10 10

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to stay

Tips for Your Hotel Search in Georgia . . . e c i o h C y M

Andrzej Malinowski Chief Executive Officer at Veon Georgia (Beeline) Business trips are part of my job, so I travel quite a lot – given the geography of our company operations and the fact our HQ is located in Amsterdam. I don’t track the time I spend traveling or nights I spend in hotels, but both will be high in number.

When it comes to my favorite places in Georgia, the selection is based on a mixture of emotions, my evaluation of quality of service in particular places and the “thing” – something that is specific to a respective place.

Radisson Tbilisi My #1 hotel in Georgia is Radisson Tbilisi. Here, emotion plays a big role. This hotel was my first “home” – back in April 2017, right after I arrived in Tbilisi for the first time. Everything about the place made me feel welcome in the country I now call a “home away from home”. The location, front desk team, quality of food and service overall was top notch and it made my blending into Georgia and the city much easier. I still keep a thank you note I received after I’d spent almost two weeks in a great room overlooking the city.

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to stay

Rooms Hotel Kazbegi Soon after I realized Tbilisi feels more and more like home for me, I invited my wife to show her how great a place it is and used this opportunity to take a trip to Stepantsminda. And there I discovered Rooms Hotel Kazbegi - #2 on my list. The interior, view from the terrace and this special feeling of being in a truly unique place like no other is something I will remember for years to come. In fact, I took both of my children there when they came to visit me and they were both stunned.

Radisson Batumi When I finally made it to Batumi (also a very memorable trip for me – I was there on my 50th birthday) Radisson Batumi was kind of an obvious choice.

Many people I know from the hospitality business say “location is key” and surely Radisson Batumi proves this theory perfectly. I really like the place, I was lucky to stay in a sea-view room; enjoy my pool time – also this year I had some of my family members joining me for my 51st birthday celebration there. The hotel administration surprised me with a delicious cake on that occasion. Only good memories from the amazing place Batumi is and from the hotel.

Vardzia Resort Vardzia Resort is a place I visited most recently with many of my teammates– we had a corporate event there. It was my first ever visit to this part of Georgia and honestly, everything about this trip was mind blowing: the surroundings of the hotel itself, huge room with a breathtaking view, meeting room and helpful staff made our event a great experience. I will definitely be back there since I did not have enough enjoyment!

Tsinandali Estate Overall, all the places I have stayed in while in Georgia (and it’s more than 2.5 years now) were truly impressive, but from a design perspective both interior and exterior, Tsinandali Estate is in a league of its own. I’ve never seen anything quite like it – the hotel itself is a bit hard to find when you go there for the first time, but once you find it – it just leaves you speechless. It is truly state of the art, with so much attention to detail and quality of service in all aspects. I will definitely go there again, because my last (and only) trip happened during really bad weather, so I expect on a sunny day the place will make an even better impression.

to stay

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News Promotion of Georgia on CNN

By Ketevan Kvaratskheliya The promotion of Georgia as an exceptional tourist destination is underway on one of the world’s leading media platforms, CNN. CNN International released a documentary titled ‘Destination: Georgia,’ inviting travel enthusiasts to discover the ‘country with rich history and trendy urban spaces.’ Mesmerizing views, fine cuisine, and the ancient winemaking tradition have also been included in the promotion.

This is not the first CNN project aimed at introducing Georgia to the rest of the world as it recently launched a special webpage ‘Discover Georgia,’ focusing on Georgia’s history, nature and cuisine. Various articles about historic sights around Georgia have also been published by CNN.

Korea Broadcasting System Promotes Georgia

By Ketevan Kvaratskheliya The Georgian National Tourism Administration (GNTA) continues its active promotion of Georgia and introducing the country to wider audiences through various international media platforms, including the world-renowned CNN and National Geographic. This time, Korea Broadcasting System (KBS), the national public broadcaster of South Korea, has launched a special program and video clips on Georgia.

Journalists from Korea traveled to different regions of Georgia, explored the country for two weeks and prepared impressive material for the shows “Everywhere K” and “Food Odyssey”.

Through a 50-minute long documentary and 10 short video clips, the journalists accentuated Georgia’s prospects for developing the tourism sector, as well as the country’s diverse cuisine and unique wines.

Aside from Korea’s leading TV channel, the video clips about Georgia were promoted through different social networks.

The project has been launched as a result of the collaboration of the GNTA and Embassy of Georgia in the Republic of Korea.

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Hotel Diuma in the citycenter

Situated in the cultural heart of Tbilisi, in a historic building, one of its earliest guests was renowned French writer Alexandre Duma, in 1856, who describes the beautiful streets, architecture and hospitality with fascination and honor in his book ‘Adventures in the Caucasus’.

The building, which had hosted numerous people over more than a century, has been renovated several times and today, the four star Diuma Hotel is doing its best to continue the tradition of famous Georgian hospitality, offering outstanding service and mixing historical values with all the features of a modern hotel. Suitable for all types of traveler, Diuma Hotel offers 18 newly renovated, air-conditioned classy rooms with private bathrooms. There are budget rooms on the first floor and lux rooms at the top of the building with a terrace from which you can enjoy the views of historical monuments and beautiful narrow streets, experiencing the vibes of a 19th and 20th century’s bohemian city, full of cultural sights all around.

Located a minute’s walk from Liberty (Freedom) Square, one of the most popular places among the must-see sights for tourists, Diuma Hotel’s 24/7 front desk and room service will help with great pleasure. Breakfasts are served in Chacha Bar Karaoke, next to the hotel, named in honour of the traditional Georgian Vodka- Chacha. In addition to the free Wi-Fi and cable TV, a special communication system allows guests to make calls all over the world, is available, as is free parking for guests with cars.

5, Gia Abesadze str.

Tel: 995 32 2 070 008 Mob: 995 599 575566 Email: diumahotel@gmail.com

Radisson Blu Iveria City-Center Hotel Boasts Views of the River & Mountains Found in the heart of Georgia’s capital city, Tbilisi, this hotel is nestled between the beautiful Mtkvari River and nearby mountain ranges. Step outside to find dining, shopping and nightlife on Rustaveli Avenue. You can visit nearby attractions like Old Town and the Narikala Fortress.

Their 249 rooms and suites provide free high-speed, wireless internet and scenic views of Mtatsminda, the city’s historic hill, or of the river landscape.

Umami Be sure to experience exquisite dining within tranquility and elegance of interior design at Radisson’s Asian restaurant Umami. By mixing Japanese and Thai with other culinary cultures, the chefs use the freshest ingredients to create both traditional and innovative dishes. Here, cooking becomes a performance art as you watch your dinner being created in the open kitchen. Pair Umami’s signature sushi with a glass of wine as you take in the views from floor-to-ceiling windows and expect no less than premium treatment from their wonderful service team.

Be a part of this Asian fusion restaurant and try fresh sushi or something sizzling from the menu showcasing everything from tepanyaki to teriyaki. Umami offers a range of authentic dishes from Asia as well as some newer signature dishes created by Radisson Blu Iveria’s Asian chefs.

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Filini The blissful flavors and colors of Italy come together in the heart of Tbilisi. At Filini, they understand that the concept of a great restaurant is not exclusively about delicious food: it also involves dining in an attractive and soulful setting complete with a welcoming and competent service team. The Filini menu offers a wide selection of traditional and signature dishes, creatively cooked up for an unforgettable culinary experience. We love their organic selection of perfectly grilled steaks and locally foraged natural cheeses and jams. For a touch of local taste, a glass of Georgian Qvevri wine paired with homemade pasta is second to none.

The Anne Semonin Spa Traversing Radisson Blu Iveria Hotel’s top two floors, the Anne Semonin Spa overlooks Tbilisi in all its sun-drenched brilliance. With its massive floor-to-ceiling windows, light pastel tones and aerial views, this 1,600-square-meter spa offers nourishment for all human senses.

Equipped with an infinity lounge pool, relaxation area, thermal suites, KLAFSŠ solariums, nine treatment rooms, a fitness center and an outdoor pool, the Anne Semonin Spa offers everything and more. Its deluxe treatment collection presents an ingenious blend of aromatic essentials oils, trace elements and marine ingredients with a classic French touch and a holistic approach to treating the individual needs of your body and skin.

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Royal Inn Royal Inn is the newest member of the fastest growing Georgian chain of hotels – the Inn Group. It is a twenty-one-room hotel located in the historic and touristic part of Tbilisi. Royal Inn is a blend of modern style with a historical architecture. The building was built in the second half of XIX century. It belonged to the Georgian nobleman Alexander Giorgievich Tsitsishvili and the initials of the owner are well preserved on the front side of the building in Russian alphabet.

The building reflects a baroque facade – popular style of that period, with “Tbilisi yard”, which includes flashing wooden balcony - a necessary attribute of any old Tbilisi house. The building was renovated in 2019, adding modern interiors to meet travelers’ needs, while maintaining its XIX century spirit.

manufactured by local Germans more than 150 years ago.

Guests may enjoy various cocktails and drinks in red goldcolored bar. It’s a perfect place for both a quiet relaxing time and small business meetings.

The rooms are bright and spacious, combining classical elements with modern standards. Some of the rooms have balconies with old-style metal ornaments.

The hotel dining room showcases the traditional architecture of Georgian cellars and preserved fireplace with metal ornaments

The hotel is located right next to the Agmashenebeli Avenue, which was named as one of the 12 coolest neighborhoods around the world by Forbes. Visitors can enjoy the walk on the historical street and taste cuisine from all over the world in modern cafes and restaurants. The flea market is just minutes walk from the hotel. This area is a must-see for every guest in Tbilisi.

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Inn Group Inn Group was founded with the vision and aim of offering its guests a 4-star hotel experience for a reasonable price. It all started in 2015, when group of like-minded partners decided to establish 70-room Iveria Inn in Tbilisi, which became so popular that it soon grew to be 100 and then 195-room hotel.

Soon enough another hotel - Gudauri Inn followed in the most popular skiing resort in Georgia –Gudauri. In just couple of years, Inn Group became the fastest growing Georgian chain of hotels adding two more hotels to its portfolio – Royal Inn and Bakuriani Inn, in Tbilisi and Bakuriani respectively. As one of the leaders in the hospitality industry in the country, Inn Group aims to improve the industry standards, and exceed the customer expectations, hence making Georgia one of the most desirable destinations for tourists.

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VINOTEL– A Dream for Wine Lovers and the Perfect Place to Feel at Home

Located in Old Tbilisi, Vinotel is a concept of Georgia, presenting the country’s traditional hospitality and its rich history in a space that unites a hotel, a restaurant, and a wine cellar.

A brilliant example of traditional Tbilisi architecture, the Vinotel building dates back to the late 19th century, its ornamented balconies and arched brick cellars speak well of the history of the place. The area was once the site of the old Tbilisi Sirajkhana, a wine traders’ house.

Believed to adorn the house originally, the garden façade was added in 2008 as a modern interpretation of the glass

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windowpane. Even the building’s location opens nostalgic doors to the past; the left embankment of Mtkvari River, a cobblestone street at the gateway of the old Avlabari district… The location is as historic as it is convenient in the practical, modern sense; just a 10-minute walk from Liberty (Freedom) Square, close to Sameba cathedral and the old presidential residence.

Although the Vinotel building has a rich history, the brand uniting boutique hotel, restaurant and wine cellar opened for guests in 2015. Upon its establishment, Vinotel took home the Booking.com award

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in 2015 and then again in 2018. The place soon got worldwide recognition too, winning international awards like World Luxury Hotels Award for the best small luxury hotel in Eastern Europe 2018, and TripAdvisor’s travelers’ choice 2019.

Vinotel even made it to the website of the White House, having welcomed many renowned guests, from American filmmaker David Lynch to the Second Lady of the United States Karen Pence, Member of Parliament of the United Kingdom Philip Hammond, and Former United States Secretary of State, Madeleine Albright…

All of them left the place content with Georgian hospitality, food, and wine.

Vinotel Boutique Hotel features 13 unique rooms. All rooms are equipped with full bathrooms, complete ventilation systems and Italian latex mattresses. The antique wooden furniture perfecting the interior design of Vinotel’s rooms are all exclusive.

Additionally, the Boutique Hotel offers a luxury suite featuring a hammam and a French fireplace.

Vinotel is as great a restaurant as it is a hotel – in 2018, Vinotel Restaurant won the World Luxury Restaurant Awards for the best heritage restaurant in Europe and the best wine list in Eastern Europe. The place features five separate restaurant

halls, each with a unique design: main hall, winetasting chamber with an oval oak bar table, traditional chamber in the arched brick wine cellar, formal dining hall with a French fireplace for business dinners and a green terrace below a 19th-century church. There, guests can sample exceptional wines, paired with Vinotel’s exquisite Georgian cuisine by chef Kakha Kakhniashvili, and phenomenal creations of world-class Georgian-Portuguese chef, Guram Baghdoshvili.

Tim Atkins with its selections. Vinotel truly offers the best Georgian wines, including natural wines from both small exclusive artisan wineries and industry leaders. The cellar’s construction characteristics combined with the modern cutting-edge German technology ensures wines are kept in optimum condition. The Vinotel sommeliers are always there to guide guests in the rich world of Georgian wine and recommend the best food to go with their chosen wine.

The historical wine cellar of Vinotel has impressed sommeliers and Masters of Wine like Rod Smith, Kenichi Ohashi and

Vinotel is a place where history meets the present, where East meets West and where great food meets great wine.

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Hotels with Wine Cellars

By Katie Ruth Davies

Autumn is winemaking season across much of Georgia, and whether you want to taste some of those wines or discover how they are made, a stay in a hotel with a wine cellar is a must-do experience during your stay here. There are an increasing number to choose from, from top-of-the range luxury, to local farm-stays. We’ve prepared a selection to tempt you below.

BUDGET

BUCHA’S GUEST HOUSE AND WINE CELLAR

Wine tastings are offered in the lovely traditional wine cellar where the family can also explain the wine-making process.

Some rooms feature stunning views of the Alazani Valley.

All rooms have shared bathrooms. The guest house has free WiFi and parking.

8 L. Gudiashvili Str., Telavi, Kakheti (+995) 577 12 10 33 Price: 2 single beds from 70 GEL

GUESTHOUSE BAKHVI, OZURGETI

Bucha’s is a charming guesthouse in Telavi that highlights the best of Kakheti – beautiful pastoral scenery, warm family hospitality, and amazing food and wine.

The property itself has barbecue facilities, a large garden, a terrace, and a shared guest lounge. Guests also have access to a shared kitchen, but why would you want to cook when the family that owns the guest house can make you traditional Georgian dishes on request?

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vineyard, well, small bamboo plantation, spring, special tables for feasting, kiwi and flower gardens, beehives, traditional storage for corn and much more for those interested in ecotourism and Georgian rural life. Travelers can enjoy staying in a hospitable and relaxing environment while tasting local food and wine.

Facilities: 2 rooms for up to 4 people; shared bathrooms in fair condition; hot water; large garden, parking.

Bakhvi, Ozurgeti (+995) 577 61 77 96 (Vazha Antadze); (+995) 551 10 26 96 (Lia) Price: 15 GEL per person (half board – 40 GEL)

MID-RANGE

TWINS WINE CELLAR

Guesthouse Bakhvi is located in Bakhvi village in Ozurgeti. The 2-story building boasts a large yard and rooms in an old rural style and also features a wine cellar,

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Twins (which is owned by twin brothers) offers 12 rooms: 6 double, 2 triple and 4 deluxe. Each room comes equipped with modern central heating and free Wi-Fi. Don’t miss out on their unique Qvevri collection and Qvevri Wine Museum!

The hotel is cozy and decorated with old household items, juxta-positioning the modern standards. Sit and imagine yourself lord or lady for the day- looking out over the vineyards towards the Caucasus Mountains.

The hotel offers various activity packages.

The best includes a visit to the Qvevris, the museum (see our Museum listing), wine cellars and vodka distillery, tastings of wine and chacha, baking Georgian bread in a Tone oven, lunch, and making churchkhela. NOTE: minimum 10 people required for this tour.

Napareuli village, Kakheti, (+995) 242 40 42; (+995) 595 226 404 Price: 2 single beds from 196 GEL

TOP-DOSH

Vinotel Boutique Hotel

Every detail of this converted 19th century house by the river was thought out in painstaking detail, including the furniture, which was collected and restored over years. The hotel features a range of rooms- from lux (sauna included) to standard. But even standard is luxurious!

There is a restaurant and wine cellar stocking over 150 varieties, which can host numerous events. Note the painted mirrored ceiling in the entrance hall (artist: Eka Mukhadze), an exact replica of that found in the 17th century Persian Embassy in Sololaki district.

4 Elene Akhvlediani Ascent, Tbilisi (+995) 322 55 58 88 Price: From 234 per person

Back to Chateau, you can enjoy Schuchmann wines while absorbing the sunrays near the fantastic swimming pool. Or, indulge yourself in the wine spa – the hot wine baths and a scrub with grape seeds are extremely good for the skin! A visit to Schuchmann Chateau and Spa in Kakheti is an integral wine experience!

Kisiskhevi village, Telavi (+995) 593 48 73 74 Price: 2 single beds from 320 GEL

SCHUCHMANN WINES WINIVERIA CHATEAU & SPA CHATEAU MERE

Chateau Mere has 15 spacious rooms (two suites on the rooftop, 12 standard rooms and a family suite), all of which have stunning panoramic views of the Caucasus Mountains and Alazani Valley.

The rooms feature antique furniture and modern comforts, including a flat screen TV and free Wi-Fi. This charming red-brick chateau, boasting unmistakable Georgian features, is located quite close to Telavi, the central town of the Kakheti region. Surrounded by vineyards, it’s a stylish place for a high-class getaway offering a range of very good Europeanstyle and Qvevri wines that are available for tasting and buying both in the Chateau and in its wine bar in Tbilisi which is located in the basement of the historic caravanserai building- the perfect place to store and serve wine in the right temperature conditions.

Chateau Mere can offer guests a wide range of activities: picking and crushing grapes, learning about wines and cheese making, baking bread, making churchkhelas, riding horses, hiking, and more. You can also try their house wine, Winiveria fine dry red and white.

Price per night from 220 GEL

If you like semi-sweet wines, you will love their Kindzmarauli, the local wine appellation. For those who like it dryer, red dry Mukuzani stored in oak barrels is the best choice. Among the Qvevri wines represented by the line Vinoterra, the most interesting is white dry Kisi.

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Listing: Hotels in Kakheti Shuchmann Wines Georgia Kisiskhevi, Telavi (+995) 593 48 73 74, 555 49 4126

suites are exquisitely designed to match the serenity of the area and offer breathtaking views for an exceptional stay. Boasting an outstanding rooftop infinity pool overlooking the Caucasus Mountains, a delicious variety of restaurants, and a revitalizing spa, it promises an unforgettable experience.

The hotel’s astonishing Meetings & Events facilities include an impressive open-air amphitheater for up to 1,200 guests, perfect for galas, weddings, concerts, and business conferences.

Holiday Inn Telavi Schuchmann Wines Georgia owns a hotel and a wine cellar built to resemble a medieval castle and featuring a large veranda and tasting and conference rooms. The company was founded by a German wine enthusiast infatuated with Georgia, Mr. Schuchmann, who brought together in one convenient structure a wine cellar, restaurant and hotel.

Radisson Collection Hotel, Tsinandali Estate Georgia Tsinandali village, Tsinandali (+995) 350 27 77 00 The Radisson Collection Hotel, Tsinandali Estate Georgia in Kakheti invites guests to explore the many vineyards as well as the region’s rich history from one exclusive vantage point. All 141 guest rooms and

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2 Rustaveli Ave., Telavi (+995) 322 61 11 11

Hotel Erekle II Near Erekle II Statue, Telavi (+995) 596 37 73 77 This boutique hotel, a small converted 19th-century château, sits in the historic heart of Telavi, enveloped by ancient brick walls. Remodeled with Persian, Arabic, and Georgian design elements, the building used to be home to King Erekle’s 24 children. A walled garden, shielding the porch from curious passers-by, opens up an idyllic view of the Caucasus Mountains and the Alazani Valley.

The guest area unites the hotel’s lounge, dining-room and bar in a playful journey of the senses. Seven spacious rooms on the second floor of the building are surrounded with private and shared balconies which extend into the inner courtyard.

Winiveria Château Mere 15 Vardisubani Str., Telavi (+995) 595 99 03 99

Holiday Inn Telavi hotel, located just 1.3 hours from Tbilisi, offers modern rooms and a restaurant that serves fun tapas which combine international and Georgian flavors paired with famous Georgian wines, all with breath-taking views of the Alazani Valley. The spa offers a fully equipped fitness center, beauty and relaxation treatments as well as a pool.

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Chateau Mere has 15 spacious roomstwo suites on the rooftop, 12 standard rooms and a family suite, all of which have stunning panoramic views of the Caucasus Mountains and Alazani Valley.

The rooms feature antique furniture and modern comforts, including a flat screen TV and free Wi-Fi. Chateau Mere can offer guests a wide range of activities: picking and crushing grapes, learning about wines and cheese

making, baking bread, making churchkhelas, riding horses, hiking, and more. You can also try their house wine, Winiveria fine dry red and white.

Savaneti Hotel Ikalto, Telavi (+995) 577 05 60 04

Guests will enjoy the comfortable, quiet, cozy atmosphere. The interior of the hotel is decorated with old household items which harmonically merge with the modern standards to create an unforgettable impression of Georgia past and the present. There is a magnificent view over the vineyards, beyond which is the Caucasus mountain range.

Lopota Lake Resort & Spa Napareuli, Telavi (+995) 240 04 00

Set on the foothills of the Tsiv-Gombori mountain range, this hotel is 7 km from Telavi’s historic Old Town. Decorated in neutral colors, the stylish rooms at Savaneti Hotel feature modern furniture and rich fabrics. Georgian dishes are served daily at Savaneti’s inviting restaurant. Breakfast is provided each morning, and guests can relax in the Zavod Vodka room or in the rustic-style wine cellar. Visitors can explore a variety of medieval buildings in Telavi, such as the Ikalto Academy (3 km) and Alaverdi Monastery (12 km).

Twins Wine House Napareuli village, Telavi (+995) 599 33 38 84 There are 12 rooms in the Twins Wine House hotel: 6 double, 2 triple and 4 de-luxe. Each room is equipped with modern central heating, air conditioning, hot water systems and free Wi-Fi. Guests can visit the unique Qvevri and Qvevri Wine Museum.

Nature, European style rooms with terraces and great views over the lake make this resort truly unique. The Spa Center offers various health and medical procedures, relaxing and detoxifying massages and Thalassotherapy Royal baths – all revitalizing, slimming, moisturizing and rejuvenating. Lopota resort has three swimming pools- a family one, a professional one and a mid-sized pool.

There is a restaurant and two bars at the resort, where professional chefs prepare delicious food made from ecological locally grown produce. Wine-tasting, tone bread making, horse-riding and walking tours are also available.

romance, as does the wine with which Royal Batoni treats guests.

Kabadoni Boutique Hotel 1 Tamar Mepe Str., Sighnaghi (+995) 224 04 00 Featuring an indoor swimming pool and a wellness center, Kabadoni Boutique Hotel offers guests a wine bar and rooms with free Wi-Fi. Each elegant air-conditioned room at Kabadoni includes an iPod docking station and a flat-screen TV. Bathrooms come with slippers and bathrobes. Local Georgian dishes are served in the Kabadoni Restaurant, while relaxing cocktails are offered at the outdoor Sunset Lounge Bar. A range of wines from the Alazani Valley can be enjoyed at the Wine Bar.

Chateau Ikalto School Str., Ikalto (+995) 551 11 01 07

Royal Batoni Kvareli (+995) 595 99 66 11 Hotel-Palace Royal Batoni is an ideal place for a romantic stay, where you can enjoy vintage, European and traditional Georgian decor. There is an open swimming pool overlooking breath-taking scenery in a beautiful and peaceful environment. The outer and inner lighting of the Royal Batoni tower add to the

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Chateau Ikalto features a restaurant, seasonal outdoor swimming pool, a bar and shared lounge. This 4-star hotel offers room service, dry cleaning services and free Wi-Fi. The accommodation provides a hammam, karaoke and a 24/7 front desk.

A continental breakfast is available daily at the hotel, to be enjoyed inside or on the terrace.

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Akhasheni Wine Resort

Teliani Valley Guest House

Gurjaani (+995) 595 80 70 50, 220 00 11

Telavi (+995) 32 231 32 45/46 This small, guest house located at the entrance of Telavi, on the premises of the ”Teliani Valley” winery, has been hosting wine lovers from around the world since 2005.

Boasting free bikes and a restaurant, Akhasheni Wine Resort is a 4-star resort offering a 24/7 front desk. Guests can chill out in the outdoor swimming pool and wake up to a continental or buffet breakfast. Akhasheni Wine Resort offers a barbecue. Cycling is among the activities that guests can enjoy near the accommodation.

Ambassadori Kachreti Golf Resort

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Shaloshvili’s Cellar Hotel Shilda, Kvareli (+995) 577 40 90 41

It offers 7 rooms: 5 standard and 2 luxe.

Each room is named after a famous Georgian wine - guests can choose to stay at Teliani, Mukuzani, Qvevri, Tsolikouri, Saperavi, Tsinandali, or Khvanchkara. All rooms are decorated in classical Georgian style, each according to the color of the wine it is named after. Besides a filling breakfast included in the room service, visitors can also experience the authentic Kakhetian Supra, along with a wide variety of Teliani Valley wines.

Hotel Chateau Kvareli 1a Kudigora Str., Kvareli (+995) 599 46 65 95

Kakheti, Gurjaani (+995) 243 94 94 Each room at Hotel Ambasadori includes a classic-style interior and a minibar. Free Wi-Fi, a private winery, a tennis court and air-conditioned rooms with a flat-screen TV are among the facilities on offer here.

Ambasadori’s restaurant with exposed wooden beams and stone decorations serves Georgian cuisine. Local wines and international drinks are offered at the on-site bar. Guests can relax beside the outdoor swimming pool or work out in the fitness center. Table tennis and billiards can also be found on site.

churches and historical monuments. The hotel is connected with the famous winery Kindzmarauli Corporation. Next to the hotel you find the ancient Kvareli Castle.

Located in Shilda, 5 km from Nekresi Monastery, Shaloshvili’s Cellar Hotel has a number of amenities including a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, a garden, a bar and free Wi-Fi. Featuring a 24/7 front desk, this property also provides guests with a restaurant. Staff on site can arrange airport transfers. A full English/Irish breakfast is available daily.

Tsinandali Guesthouse Tsinandali (+995) 570 70 43 89

Hotel Chateau Kvareli is situated in the center of Kvareli town at the foot of the Caucasus mountain range. Nearby you will find interesting sights like museums,

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Tsinandali Guesthouse is located in the 19th century park of Tsinandali, across from the Prince Chavchavadze House Museum. It is comprised of two small buildings stylized to resemble local, Kakhetian

architecture of the late Middle Ages. The dining room on the ground floor was designed by renowned Georgian-Russian sculptor and painter Zurab Tsereteli while the engraved walls and four-ton chandelier are true artifacts of the Soviet era. The Tsinandali state, including the hotel, is an undivided historical complex and has Immovable Cultural Heritage status. The park was designed by Arnold Regal (1946-1917), a prominent landscape architect from St. Petersburg and is the first park in Georgia developed in a traditional European Style.

The lodging complex is comprised of twenty-one rooms, all of which offer guests a comfortable stay in an area of Kakheti known for its serene beauty with an exquisite view of the Georgian countryside. Each room is furnished in a simple, contemporary style with a private bathroom with all the standard amenities, air conditioning, flat-screen TVs with full cable packages and a balcony overlooking the garden.

Boutique Hotel BelleVue 23 Vakhtang Gorgasali Str., Signagi (+995) 591 22 25 85, 385 51 679 000

cocktails, is intended for your enjoyment.

The question: Why choose Hotel Bellevue?

The answer: a terrace hot tub, Bellevue Spa Clinic - slow ageing concept, personalized treatments and programs, Spa Garden– open air garden massage, indoor and outdoor seawater pool, private beach, signature cocktails, fine dining menus for gourmet lovers and a modern congress hall.

Wald Hotel Lagodekhi 197 Vashlovani Str., Lagodekhi (+995) 593 83 99 83

Hotel Hapo 5 Vardoshvili Str., Telavi (+995) 579 40 00 04, 0350 27 12 12

Just 200 m from the King Erekle II Palace and a few steps from the renowned Giant Plane Tree, this hotel features 24/7 front desk and welcomes guests with a restaurant, a water park and a year-round outdoor pool. The accommodation provides room service and valet parking for guests.

Park Hotel Tsinandali Tsinandali (+995) 350 27 72 01

A contemporary 5* hotel where everything, from the luxuriously designed interiors to the top spa offers and signature

service, along with free Wi-Fi throughout the property. The rooms come with a balcony with views of the garden.

Located in Tsinandali, a few steps from Tsinandali Palace Museum, Park Hotel Tsinandali provides accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, a bar and a garden. Among the facilities at this property are a 24/7 front desk and room

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Wald Hotel Lagodekhi features a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, garden, a bar and shared lounge. Among the facilities of this property are a restaurant, a 24/7 front desk and valet parking, along with free Wi-Fi. The accommodation provides airport transfers. A bicycle rental service is also available.

Alazani Valley Hotel 75 Alazani Ave., Telavi (+995) 595 50 01 55 Offering free Wi-Fi, this hotel is a 10-minute walk from the historic center of Telavi. It features a 24/7 reception with a tour desk. Decorated in neutral colors, the air-conditioned rooms at Alazani Valley Hotel have a satellite TV and a refrigerator. Georgian and European cuisine is served in the classic-style restaurant, and each morning a buffet breakfast is provided.

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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 country’s gastronomy.

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

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 HOTEL THE HERO OF GEORGIAN HOSPITALITY

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., Tbilisi (+995) 32 272 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.

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Courtyard Tbilisi 4 Liberty (Freedom) Sq., Tbilisi (+995) 32 277 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., Tbilisi (+995) 32 277 92 00 www.marriott.com Once you enter its grand atrium-style lobby adorned with crystal chandeliers,

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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

Porta Caucasia,meaning ‘Gate to the Caucasus’ is a freshly The name of the four-star hotel “Porta Caucasia” greatheart of Kazbegi. launched hotel locatedhas in the newly-established 4 star hotel in the heart of Kazbegi and its surroundings have been offers Kazbegi alpine style sophistication and elegance.

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Porta Caucasia is the perfect place to stay if you’re interested in

hotel stands out forvisiting its exquisite interior and this region.tasteful It is unusual to find such comfort and support creates a peacefulhigh andinrelaxing atmosphere mountains, but you will befor amazed to discover the highqualityofservice thismaterials hotel provides. guests. A combination earthy and ecofriendly manufacturing makes this beautiful hotel ideal The hotel stands out for numerous reasons. Paying attention to for all tastes. 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 THE HOTEL OFFERS: top-of-the-range toiletries. * 33 Deluxe and Suite rooms with excellent

panoramic views over the Mkinvartsveri and Kuro Mountain Caucasia has pioneered the creation of a privatetoonline host you * World Porta Class Service rward fo * Georgian and European restaurants with g in platform for bookings and reservations, allowing ease of contact k Kazbegi Loo unique and delightful cuisine Caucasia * 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., Tbilisi (+995) 32 240 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

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.

26 May Sq., Tbilisi (+995) 32 230 00 99 www.hi-tbilisi.com

Hotels & Preference Hualing Tbilisi Tbilisi Sea District, Tbilisi (+995) 32 250 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., Tbilisi (+995) 32 272 46 14, 275 44 95 www.shardenvilla.ge

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140b Agmashenebeli Ave., Tbilisi (+995) 32 224 41 44 www.cityavenue.ge

Holiday Inn

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.

The Terrace Boutique Hotel 7 P. Kakabadze Str., Tbilisi (+995) 32 299 90 01

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.

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 3 V. Gorgasali Str., Tbilisi (+995) 32 222 50 80

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.

(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.

King Gorgasali offers elegantly decorated rooms with memorable views and modern decor.

Tribeca Hotel is the perfect place to stay while in Tbilisi.

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.

Feel @ Home at Tribeca Hotel!

AMbassadori Hotel 17 Shavteli Str., Tbilisi (+995) 243 94 94

Tribeca Hotel 115 D. Agmashenebeli Ave., Tbilisi (+995) 32 222 70 02 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 refreshment corner for hotel guests and a wine parlor.

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

to stay

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.”

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

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emigrant hotel 6 Vashlovani str., Tbilisi (+995) 32 293 54 52, (+995) 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., Tbilisi (+995) 32 233 88 08, (+995) 555 35 55 55 www.winepalace.ge Email: info@winepalace.ge Facebook: #HotelWinePalace

vinotel 4 E. Akhvlediani Ascent, Tbilisi (+995) 32 255 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.

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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.

Black Tomato tbilisi (+995) 568 77 72 59 3/6 G. Lortkipanidze Str., Tbilisi, Georgia Email: tbilisi@blacktomato.ge

The hostel is surrounded by socalled Italian yards, modern and vintage bars and cafes.

Black Tomato Kutaisi (+995) 568 77 73 21 17 M. Kostava Str., Kutaisi, Georgia Email: hello@blacktomato.ge

A vintage hostel contains three private unsuited rooms and a dormitory room located in a historical building in Old Tbilisi. A mix of wooden handmade and renovated old furniture along with super-friendly service creates a unique hip atmosphere.

Black Tomato Kutaisi unites a Hostel and a Wine Bar in western Georgia. A typical Imerelian house has been transformed into a hip hostel with vintage soul. The Hostel is located in Old Kutaisi where the neighborhood comprises of interesting old houses and of course cafes and restaurants that demonstrate the rich food culture of Imereti.

The hostel offers dorm rooms, as well as private double rooms and common areas, all of them decorated with old items and

Hotel Zemeli 15 M. Kostava Str. (+995) 322 30 03 05

In the heart of Tbilisi, at 15 Merab Kostava Street, near the renowned “Zemeli Pharmacy” of old Tbilisi, hotel Zemeli has opened its doors for guests.

Hotel Zemeli is a boutique-type hotel with 23 uniquely decorated modern, and comfortable rooms. The hotel takes pride in its diverse and healthy cuisine, which is offered to guests in the lounge on the first floor of the building.

The hotel stands out for its central location near sights, theaters, museums and shops; its carefully and tastefully chosen design and décor; its diverse and tasty cuisine, and its high-quality service. Hotel Zemeli answers well to the standards of the global market and is ready to welcome guests from every part of the world.

It’s also important to note that the hotel is affordable, functioning in the mid-priced segment which is a highly in demanded but in low supply in Georgia.

Hotel Zemeli is expected to become an integral part of Tbilisi city life, a place for both professional and private meets.

Modernly designed Zemeli, a boutique hotel of 23 rooms and a café/lounge, offers a pleasant environment for all guests.

furniture that ultimately create a stunning fusion interior. Situated in the yard of the hostel, Black Tomato Wine Bar serves traditional Georgian wines as well as sparkling wine and wine cocktails. A super-friendly and chilled environment fosters the atmosphere for travelers to make new friends, as good background music and a glass of wonderful Georgian wine is the best idea after a long adventurous day to share experiences with each other. The wine bar not only serves Hostel guests, but is also open to any other visitors.

Borjomi Likani Hotel 16 Meskheti Str., Borjomi (+995) 32 229 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.

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GOLDEN TULIP BORJOMI HOTEL 48, 9 April Str. Borjomi (+995) 32 288 02 02, (+995) 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., Tbilisi (+995) 32 224 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.

FABRIKA 8 Ninoshvili Str., Tbilisi (+995) 32 202 03 99

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 Best Western Kutaisi as a place to stay.

We also recommend tasting Imeretian cuisine in the on-site restaurant!

Rooms Hotels Tbilisi 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.

BEST WESTERN KUTAISI 11 Grishashvili Str., Kutaisi (+995) 32 219 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

14 M. Kostava Str., Tbilisi (+995) 32 202 00 99 www.roomshotels.com

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.

mariinsky 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

to stay

50 memed abashidze Str. (+995) 595 13 10 23

Mariinsky Apartments & Hotel offers 12 lavish non-standard apartments, including 2 superior, 7 studio-loft and 3 standard suits. Designed to blend comfort with quiet sophistication, each apartment offers a luxurious experience at a competitive price. Every room has a great view and modern look, while keeping the downtown hotel’s history and location in mind.

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HOTEL PORTA CAUCASIA KAZBEGI 2 Tergdaleulebi Str., Stepantsminda (Kazbegi), Georgia (+995) 32 225 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

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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 (+995) 32 200 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 conference room, gym & spa, The Old

to stay

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., Tbilisi (+995) 32 200 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”.

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

Natia Lomidze Sales Manager of Fortune Palace Hotel

Jimmy Jimmy Restaurant I can recommend the newly opened IndianGeorgian restaurant “Jimmy-Jimmy� at the Fortune Palace Hotel. Amazingly exotic environment and distinctive Indian cuisine that has never really been seen in Tbilisi before.

Another great advantage of the restaurant is that it is located on the top floor of the Fortune Palace Hotel and includes two large terraces with barbecue tables and a Hookah lounge. A daily program accompanied

by Georgian-Indian songs and dances, DJ and karaoke, create the best environment for a pleasant ending to a tense day.

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to eat

Terrace 21 Restaurant “Terrace 21” in the heart of Old Tbilisi gives you not only delicious but healthy meals and there you will enjoy the amazing views of Old Tbilisi from the restaurant’s terraces.

You can taste the best laz Khachapuri there, too.

Tifliso I would also choose the restaurant Tifliso in Shardeni St., where I recommend noise and fun lovers to enjoy an evening of delicious food and good live music.

Shadow of Metekhi To listen to everyone’s favorite Georgian singers and taste delicious Georgian cuisine, I recommend visiting the Shadow of Metekhi restaurant, which is definitely the best and most attractive place for tourists, with the best location and the most beautiful views of Tbilisi.

Golden Mug The best Georgian environment, dishes, music that fascinates and captivates our tourists will be met at Beliashvili’s restaurant Golden Mug.

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News LA Times on Khachapuri’s Growing ‘Food Monopoly’

By Nini Dakhundaridze The Los Angeles Times has published an article on Khacapuri’s growing “food monopoly,” titled ‘Will everyone in America soon be eating the khachapuri cheese boat?’ The author, Bill Addison, is a James Beard Awardwinning restaurant critic for the Los Angeles Times.

He goes on to describe khachapuri’s effects on the ever-growing cuisine culture in America, focusing on the different types of legendary Georgian pastry that are offered throughout the US, stating that the numbers of Georgian-cuisine-focused restaurants are increasing rapidly. Addison wonders if ‘everyone in America will soon be eating the khachapuri cheese boat.’

Along with its deliciousness, the Los Angeles journalist and restaurant critic write about the ‘instagrammable’ characteristics of khachapuri: “Khachapuri certainly caught on in New York this decade, an easy-to-photograph spectacle that crept into the mainstream after being served in obscurity for years in Brooklyn’s Georgian restaurants,” reads his article.

The LA Times writes about khachapuri and the joys of it frequently. For example, last month, they published a review of the newly opened Georgian-Armenian restaurant Havlabar in Glendale.

Much of the article, the author talks about the ‘doughy joy’ that is khachapuri.

“Khachapuri — the doughy joy that falls somewhere between bread and pastry — is arguably the most famous Georgian dish stateside. The canoe-shaped version from coastal Ajara, filled with cheese, butter and egg yolks in its hollowed center, has achieved Instagram immortality,” reads the article.

Tenili Cheese Technology Awarded Cultural Heritage Status

By Ketevan Kvaratskheliya The diversity of Georgian gastronomy has been impressing locals and foreigners for years. The country is also distinguished for it unique sorts of cheese, and Tenili cheese, most often made in the regions of SamtskheJavakheti and Kvemo Kartli, is one of the most outstanding varieties on the list. Tenili is made using sheep’s or cow’s milk with high fat content.

Along with the taste, Tenili is certainly worth spotlighting for the difficult method of preparation, which was revived and given new life recently.

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“The secret behind making true Tenili cheese has been awarded cultural heritage status!” reports the delegation of the European Union to Georgia, introducing a short video clip of the preparation process of Tenili cheese.

“If you have never heard about this type of Georgian cheese, watch the video created by Georgian and Armenian youth with the support of an EU-funded project. The project helps young people from Eastern Partnership countries promote each other’s cultures,” reads the post of the delegation.

National Geographic on Tbilisi’s ‘Renaissance’

By Ketevan Kvaratskheliya Various international media platforms have already expressed interest in Georgia, dedicating publications and documentaries to the country’s diversity, its hospitality, as well as its multiplicity of attractions. This time Tbilisi has once again caught the eye of National Geographic, which published an article titled ‘Tbilisi: the world’s most bohemian city’.

The article speaks about the “bohemian and culinary renaissance” of Tbilisi, introducing the trendiest urban spots to wider audiences and sharing its impressions.

Tara Isabella Burton, the author of the publication, strongly focuses on the eclectic architecture of the historic capital of Georgia, noting that “few cities are as gleefully chaotic as Tbilisi.” She recommends spending time in Tbilisi to discover the best of its must-go places. “While the city is small enough to be covered in a weekend, its architectural eclecticism, thriving restaurant and bar scene, and wealth of cultural offerings make it worth a much longer stay.”

Burton goes on to explore the most popular venues of the Georgian capital, including Stamba and Rooms hotels, as well as the Fabrika complex and the 19th century Wine Factory, which have already strongly established themselves among local and international guests as the best ‘chill out’ areas with the best food and selection of drinks.

The author also speaks about the Georgian gourmet pleasures, representing an inseparable part of the country’s culture, and offers her recommendations in this regard.

“Tbilisi has undergone a culinary renaissance over the past few years, with a cornucopia of local restaurants reimagining Georgian classics like grilled meats in sour plum sauce, salty khachapuri cheese breads, and red bean lobio stew.”

The journalist does not forget to mention the Dry Bridge Flea Market, the city’s best place to find antiques, souvenirs, jewelry and more.

“The daily market (weekends tend to have more vendors) sells everything from 19th century European porcelain to modern Dagestani jewelry to Georgian enameling, antique musical instruments to wolf pelts, to works by contemporary artists. Come prepared with a few phrases of Georgian, and receive a history lesson from the usually-friendly vendors about anything from Soviet-era medallions to Khevsur embroidery.”

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Entrepreneurial News Mzetamze Mzetamze, a bread-producing company which uses Georgian wheat varieties, has a pleasant novelty for customers in the launch of a new line of rye bread called Chvia. Through the synthesis of ancient baking traditions and modern recipes, five new bread types are to be added to the enterprise: malt, sesame, sunflower, caraway and oat flake. Currently, Mzetamze is producing nearly 20 different bread varieties.

The major aim of the company is to preserve and develop Georgian wheat varieties and the country’s bread-baking traditions.

Yellow watermelon The Georgian agro market is ever more diversified and is to see the “yellow watermelon” as a new character on the shelves. First grown this year in Leliani village, Lagodekhi, by Davit Chumburidze, the strange-at-firstglance product has already attracted the attention of both locals and tourists. Due to the high demand, the farmer plans to expand his business in future. What makes the watermelon outstanding is that it is yellow inside. In summer, it is cultivated in Spain, and in Thailand in the winter season. The yellow watermelon is also distinguished with a particular taste, which is obtained without any pesticides. Yellow watermelon is categorized as a tropical fruit. Chumburidze also plans to produce other such products.

Sokhumi Meet Izolda Kvitsiani, a Georgian emigrant, has launched a Georgian restaurant with Georgian spirit in the city of The Hague, The Netherlands, and named it Sokhumi. Kvitsiani was displaced from Abkhazia and carries a very difficult story. However, after moving to The Netherlands, life improved. She is a great cook and her choice of career came easy. Hard work for 18 hours a day made it possible to launch the idea inspired by her homeland’s national spirit. As a result, the restaurant has already gained popularity among the residents of The Hague, as well as guests of the city.

GuestMe GuestMe, a Georgian gastronomic platform and a startup launched for tourists, is set to begin operating this September. It will enable housewives to host tourists with their own cooking and give visitors the chance to discover genuine local cuisine and gastro-culture in the heart of Georgian families, taste specialties and participate in the preparation process. In addition, the service is to be pocket-friendly. Founders Tornike Pkhovelishvili and Tinatin Dekanoidze were inspired by the idea of establishing effective communication between tourists and their hosts and offering something new for those seeking unique experiences.

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Gorgasali Restaurant in Old City

By Ketevan Kvaratskheliya

Taking a gastronomic tour and sampling the most outstanding culinary pleasures is one of the best parts of visiting Georgia. Even though Georgia is rich in eateries of different styles, from traditional dishes to foreign mouthwatering specialties, it is undoubtedly challenging to find a place able to offer both a diverse menu and an exceptional ambience. Well, the Where.ge team has found one for you!

Located in one of the former Sulphur baths, a symbol of the ancient capital of Georgia, Gorgasali integrates five different halls and guarantees a unique experience in each.

The Where.ge team met with Shalva Kajaia, the founder of the restaurant, to find out more about this exceptional venue.

Wine House was our first stop on the short tour he offered us. From the blue ceiling decorated with Georgian ornaments and colorful tableware to the floor-to-ceiling shelves displaying a selection of fine Georgian wines, dried fruit and spices, as well as signature clay crafts: everything is genuinely Georgian

in this hall. Wine House is ready to ensure an unforgettable journey into the world of Georgian gastronomy, as it provides an impressive menu of delicious traditional courses, exceptional wines, including Qvevri, bio, as well as exclusives and even fruit vodka. Worth highlighting is that along with managing Gorgasali, Shalva Kajaia is actively engaged in the sphere of agriculture and farming, guaranteeing only natural and highquality products get into the kitchen at this restaurant. Wine House goes beyond the limits of excellent food and offers special evenings for guests, inviting Georgian writers, singers, ensembles and actors.

We moved on to a two-room hall called ‘Tavaduri’ and found ourselves in a totally different ambience- a hall of oriental colors; smaller and more private, with soft furnishings. Here, you can smoke shisha and watch belly-dancing shows against a background of walls painted with the images of historic Georgian figures and scenes reflecting the country’s ancient history.

Guests, even children, are welcome to give the cooking process a go, prepare Georgian dishes with their own hands and taste them later. Along with an antique fireplace and pieces of traditional Georgian furniture, here you will find a special ‘cooking stone’, where the chefs spare no effort to cook fish or any other course to perfection.

Our final stop in Gorgasali is the spacious terrace, probably the most outstanding feature of the restaurant, its floor-to-ceiling windows, open during the summer, framing the marvelous views of the Old Town and eclectic old houses and historical sights, the modern cable car in the background. Here, guests can have the best dining experience and complete their meal with a divine dessert and exceptional cup of fruit tea.

Restaurant Gorgasali is an outstanding venue, offering a marvelous tour of local and international gourmet pleasures, accompanied by an extraordinary ambience and immaculate service.

The spacious main hall of the restaurant is the next stop on our tour, where the columns and domes of the former bath visually separate the tables and provide for a super comfy space for dining, accompanied by live music performances. Even though the restaurant looks Georgian, it also caters to international tastes with dishes like cream of pumpkin soup and sushi.

The grand dining hall leads to the Masterclass Room, which is certainly an innovative statement on the Georgian restaurant market.

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Rtveli - The Harvest

As summer turns into autumn, the vines across Georgia hang heavy with their gold and ruby treasures, plump with juice and ready for harvest. Georgian culture is so heavily intertwined with its wine that it should come as no surprise that the grape harvest is one of the most beloved holidays of the year and this, one of the largest and happiest of feasts, is known as Rtveli.

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Kakheti is the first region to celebrate Rtveli. Grapes here ripen first because of the favorable climate of the country’s most famous wine region and from there the festival marches westwards as the grapes ripen across the country. Families return to their villages from the cities to pick grapes and meet family and old friends whom they may not have seen since last year’s

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Rtveli. Each guest to enter a vineyard will wish their host a ‘barkaka’, a good and plentiful harvest, and soon all will be busy picking from morning until nightfall.

Children are particularly keen and will often compete to see who can pick the most grapes, which are harvested either by hand or with a pair of secateurs and collected in traditional wicker baskets

called godori, before being transferred into buckets and taken away for pressing.

gives good traditional Georgian skincontact wine its unique flavor and style.

As darkness falls, picking stops to make way for the feast (supra) that always follows the hard day’s work. A table will be laden with the finest of Georgian food, often with mtsvadi – spit-roast meat – as the centrepiece, and no table will be without a good supply of wine, served in ceramic, long-necked wine jugs. The seat of honor at the table is taken up by the tamada, the toastmaster, who is appointed by the head of the family. Even those who do not speak Georgian will appreciate the reverence and poetry with which all who are appointed tamada are able to speak before the guests’ glasses are raised and then drained entirely with each toast. In some areas, drinking horns are still used at supras, known as kantsi.

As well as proposing toasts, the tamada will typically tell jokes and stories, and he will lead in singing folk songs to which the assembled company will add their own harmonies. This polyphonic singing is included in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list, and Rtveli brings this together with Georgian qvevri winemaking, one of the other entries in the list.

The first godori of grapes is traditionally taken inside by the head of the household and the grapes are then all placed in the satsknenheli, a wooden tub where they are pressed underfoot. The juice drains and is transferred into qvevris for fermentation below ground.

Wine is not the only product of the Rtveli and soon enough fresh churchkhela and pelamushi will be hanging out to dry all over the country. Churchkhela are the omnipresent sweets with the appearance of a bumpy sausage of walnuts and grape must. Walnuts are threaded onto a string with a needle, and grape juice and flour is boiled down to a thick jam known as pelamushi (which can also be served as a dessert itself) and is spooned over them and allowed to drip-dry and set. Lastly, the chacha (grape skins, pips,

stalks and pulp) is allowed to ferment and is then fed into their distilleries to make the strong spirit of the same name and of which most makers are intensely proud.

The Rtveli might be a single day affair in a small family vineyard or might go on for several days. You too can participate in Rtveli at several wineries which allow visitors to pick and press grapes, such as at the Kindzmarauli Corporation and Winery Khareba, both in Kakheti. After the hard work is over, visitors learn about the history and methods of Georgian winemaking, enjoy a wine-tasting and then finally make merry at the supra. If you happen to spot grapes being plucked while on your travels around the country, you could alternatively try offering your help and, Georgian hospitality being as it is, you will most probably be invited to join in the festivities and supra as an honored guest and old friend.

Back in the wine cellar (the maraani), all of the vessels, jugs and basins which will hold the wine at any stage in the process of winemaking are cleaned out.

The most famous and important of these vessels is the qvevri, the iconic clay jar that is buried in the ground and in which the wine is both fermented and stored, topped by a wooden lid and sealed with clay. These range from just a few to several hundred liters in capacity and it is through contact with both the ceramic of the qvevri and the fermentation over the chacha – the skins, twigs and pulp – that

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Kakhetian Cuisine – Dishes to Taste

By Ana Dumbadze

Georgian cuisine is an integral part of Georgian culture and traditions, and trying out Georgian dishes is one foreign tourists favorite pastimes while visiting Georgia.

All regions of the country stand out for their delicious local dishes, together making up the entire Georgian cuisine with a menu that captivates everyone who tries it.

Join us on a tour of the top dishes from Kakheti, the “wine region” of Georgia, which is distinguished for its unique food traditions and wine culture.

The residents of Kakheti appreciate meat more than vegetable dishes, and traditional dishes of the local cuisine include mtsvadi (barbecued pork), khashlama, chakapuli and chikhirtma (stews). As for the sweets, the amazingly delicious churchkhela (the “Georgian Snickers”) and tatara are made from sweet grape juice (badagi) there.

Mtsvadi (Georgian Barbecue) The first dish that comes to any local’s mind when the words ‘Kakhetian cuisine’ are mentioned is mtsvadi, also known

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as Georgian barbecue, or “the Dish of Kings.” Traditional Kakhetian mtsvadi is made with pork and roasted on a spit.

The mtsvadi-making process is usually accompanied by unbeatable Kakhetian wine. The meat is soft and juicy, since it is made with fresh organic meat and is sprinkled with a few drops of Georgian wine when frying over the embers of last season’s vine wood.

Preparing it is a ritual. Mtsvadi made outdoors on an open fire is very special and completely different from that made at home using a frying pan or an electric cooker.

Mtsvadi can be made with pork, mutton or veal. Marinating the meat in pomegranate juice before roasting makes it especially tender, juicy and delicious.

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Shoti Bread (“shotis puri”) You should try mtsvadi with newly baked bread called “shoti,” a type of traditional Georgian bread shaped like a canoe, which has a very special taste and flavor. Shoti is baked in an oven called a “tone.” In Kakheti, almost every local has this deep fire-fed traditional clay oven in their yard, where they bake their favorite shoti bread.

Shoti is served as any other bread, but it tends to be more popular on special celebrations such as Easter, Christmas and New Year’s Day, as well as at birthdays and weddings.

the harvest season in autumn but can last for months if kept in a cool, dry place. It makes the perfect snack for hiking or long journeys, or just as a nice treat as you’re exploring the city.

Kakhetian Wine

Khashlama Khashlama is yet another popular dish of Kakhetian cuisine. It is both delicious and simple, prepared with boiled meat, greens, spices and local vegetables, and topped with fresh herbs. In Kakheti, it is traditionally made with veal.

Chakapuli

and lemon curd. It is eaten hot and is known as an effective hangover cure.

Tatara Tatara is grape juice thickened with flour. It is a favorite Georgian dessert made of pressed, condensed grape juice (badagi). Tatara can be made with wheat flour (as it is in the Kakheti region) or corn flour (popular in the western part of Georgia, then called pelamushi). Tatara can then be used to make tasty Kakhetian churchkhela.

Churchkhela

Chakapuli is a widely loved dish not only in Kakheti, but throughout Georgia, made by stewing beef or lamb in white wine, with sour plums, tarragon, leaf coriander and spices. It is usually made in spring, with the main ingredient being tarragon to make the dish spicier.

Chikhirtma Chikhirtma is a traditional Georgian soup made with rich chicken broth which is thickened with beaten eggs (or only yolks)

Apart from local cuisine, the Kakheti region is mostly famous for its winemaking culture, which counts over 8000 years.

The province is the main and the most important Georgian winemaking region and Kakhetian traditional wine technology has no analogue

Churchkhela is a type of Georgian candy shaped like a candle and made from natural grape juice and either walnuts or hazelnuts. Churchkhela is very energizing, that’s why it is called the “Georgian Snickers.” It is usually prepared during

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in the world. The basic technological process consists of pressing grape in a satsnakheli (winepress) and pouring the grape must (badagi) in the qvevri (large earthenware vessels used for the fermentation, storage and ageing of traditional Georgian wine). After completion of alcoholic fermentation, the “chacha” (grape skins, stalks and pips) sinks to the bottom and the Kvevris are closed hermetically. After the chacha is removed, the wine is aged for about a year and systematically controlled.

Kakhetian cuisine would not be complete without strong and exotic local wine, so be sure not to miss out on a taste as you enjoy the hearty and delicious Kakhetian dishes while visiting the region.

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Coming to Fruition

By Tony Hanmer

Autumn is a pivotal time in diverse, agrarian Georgia. As nature itself prepares to survive the annual “little death� which is winter, people everywhere begin to reap what it has offered them.

What exactly they will gather and make depends where they are among the many microclimates, altitudes and landscapes this country boasts.

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Some crops, of course, are ripe much earlier than autumn, and become available in seasons such as spring: cherries, for example. But the bulk of the variety and its labors come into their own from September through October, and are on best display in the latter month’s festival of the harvest, Tbilisoba, held of course in Tbilisi. Most forms of harvesting are still done the old ways, by

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hand, although machinery is now being added to make things more efficient.

Fruit and vegetables are probably the most obvious example of what you can find. Apples, plums sweet and sour, pomegranates, pears, walnuts, hazelnuts, pumpkins, watermelons (a bit earlier), tomatoes, cucumbers, persimmons, peaches, potatoes, corn, tobacco,

apricots, oranges, mandarins, lemons… just scratching the surface. They can be dried, pickled, made into liqueurs, jams and compotes: anything to help us through the sometimes long winters, especially those higher in the mountains.

Some items have their special food forms, such as churchkhela, a string of shelled walnuts or hazels dipped into boiled flour-thickened grape juice and hung to dry: the Georgian Snickers, as it’s also called. Sour plums make the base for tqemali, named after them, a sauce to go on meat or fried potatoes.

The winemaking season is autumn too, chiefly in Kakheti, but also scattered all over the country wherever grapes can be grown. It is a long process, but the results can be spectacular, and awardwinning around the world, now that Georgia is getting its quality control back. Most famous, and ancient, are the amphora, or qvevri, wines which lend the name of “Birthplace of wine” to Georgia, with plenty of archeological evidence to back up the claim. Harvesting, pressing and carefully fermenting the grapes of thousands of varieties is a mix of art and science, with soil and climate ensuring the results are unique every year. The best wineries got their formal start in the 19th century and earlier.

or so later. Herbs, edible flowers, fruit, spices and more can be used, either individually or in chosen combinations.

Georgia really needs a few national and provincial liqueurs of its own, however.

Fruit leather, called tqlapi in Georgian, is another autumn item, sold in rolls of quite a few different kinds. Herbs and spices are hung to dry: peppers, coriander, marigold flowers, dill, rosemary, fenugreek, parsley. Cheeses are racked, smoked or stored in brine.

Although Kakheti might be the fruit basket and winery of Georgia, the country’s diversity ensures that the rtveli, the harvest season, is nationwide at various times.

Racha, Imereti, Samegrelo and Adjara also have plenty of grapes and their products. The higher regions like Svaneti specialize in the temperate zone fruits and vegetables, the lower ones offering all these plus subtropical ones which need the warmth or longer growing season.

One thing which I would love to see being

grown is actual limes, as opposed to merely green lemons, being added to the menu; but these are not (yet) a traditional ingredient in Georgia. One can hope: the climate in places is just as fine for growing them as it is for the other citrus fruits.

Also, while tea from Georgia is definitely a thing, alas, coffee may never be.

But one should not complain. The sheer variety, taste, organic methods, and minimal transport all make for a mouthwatering autumn season in Georgia, and one can savor the results at home and in restaurants year round.

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

Liqueurs are much easier to make by comparison. Take your flavoring ingredient(s) and put them in a jar of hard alcohol: unflavored moonshine, vodka or brandy, for example. Put the lid on and store in a cool dark place for a couple of weeks to a few months, shaking occasionally. Strain as finely as you can for clarity instead of cloudiness, add sugar syrup or honey to taste, bottle, and it’s ready a month

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Listing: Georgian & Mixed Cuisine in Tbilisi Ladurée Georgia

Ciskari

21a I. Abashidze Str. (+995) 577 38 00 00, 2 22 83 83 info@laduree.ge

Kus Tba (+995) 32 243 77 00 @ciskarikustba info@ciskari.ge OPEN 3 PM - 2 AM

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.

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.

Art House Tbilisi Rike Park (+995) 557 51 50 52

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!

g.Vino 6 Erekle II (+995) 32 293 21 21

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Ciskari is a newly opened green space located in Kus Tba - an authentic Tbilisi recreational spot. The Ciskari Kitchen concept is inspired by Tbilisi, with Chef Tamta Kikaleishvili saying she is inspired by the energy of the city, and tries to recreate that vibe in her everyday work.

Ciskari establishes its name as a Social Club, a place fluid enough to host people from every age, social and cultural background. Ciskari hosts free-to-join clubs, discussions about mental health and occasional yoga pop-ins.

KETO & KOTE D. Toradzis Str. (+995) 555 53 01 26 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.

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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.

Tiflis Veranda 3 Gorgasali Str. (+995) 32 200 02 45 www.tiflispalace.ge Email: tiflisveranda@tiflispalace.ge

Cafe Leila is a pescetarian (some fish options available on the menu) and a healthy dining experience in Tbilisi that serves only village-grown, non-GMO and seasonal products.

Restaurant Meama 8 Dzmebi Zdanevichebi Str., Tbilisi (+995) 558 31 11 33

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

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.

CAFÉ LEILA 18 Shavteli Str. (+995) 555 94 94 20

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.

Dinehall 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.

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.

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28 Rustaveli Ave. (+995) 32200 16 16

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.

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PUBLICA 18 L. Gudiashvili Str. (+995) 544 44 45 44

modern twist, the dishes showcasing Georgia’s finest produce.

Art House 12pm - 12 am

L’ Eclair de Génie 12 Taktakishvili Str., Tbilisi (+995) 551 99 11 55 Fb: L’ Eclair de Génie/Georgia

Vinotel 4 E. Akhvlediani Ascent (+995) 32 255 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. (+995) 544 44 45 44

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.

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

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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. (+995) 32 240 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

Tiflis Meidani 6 Rkinis Rigi Str. (+995) 599 25 06 25, (+995) 32 275 10 38 11 am – Midnight Facebook: /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. (+995) 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

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

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

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.

9 Al. Kazbegi Ave. Facebook: LucaPolareOriginal Instagram: Lucapolare Web: Lucapolare.com (+995) 0322 38 08 02 8 am – 2 am

Luca Polare is one of the top destinations for Tbilisi residents. Lucas the polar bear’s cafes throughout the city invite you to enjoy the most flavorful ice cream and coffee.

With more than 60 types of ice cream, Luca`s production is based on Italian recipes, using 100% natural products, fresh milk and fresh fruit and containing no artificial additives for color or taste.

Luca also offers gluten-free, diabetic and vegan options.

Depending on the season, you can find rare to eat

types of ice cream, from mint, mulberry, or buckthorn, to feijoa and even the most palatable sour blackcurrant ice creams.

Luca Polare also serves exclusive coffee.

This coffee travels an interesting route to reach Lucas shops. The highest quality Arabica beans are picked in South America, 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.

You can also enjoy tea, hot chocolate, blended drinks, frappés, cakes, salads and sandwiches.

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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 Guliani’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

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

Julia Mgeladze General Manager at Hotel King Gorgasali

Hotel King Gorgasali Wine Bar On the ground floor of the hotel, The Wine Bar, a cozy, original space with warm lighting and Art deco style design, is distinguished by having a sommelier as well as knowledgeable wine waiters who will recommend exactly the type of wine to choose for the dish you have ordered. What’s more, wine tastings packages are available for both individual guests and groups.

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Azarphesha Different from a traditional interior, this is a place where you can enjoy many varieties of natural wines and a plethora of dishes- I particularly enjoy their Greek and Persian-influenced dishes.

Wine Yard N1 A family-type place in Akhalsopeli village, Kvareli, in the Kakheti region.

The facility combines the concept of wine, agro, gastro eco, ethno tourism and includes three generations of wine cellar, house and yard. ‘Feel at home’ - is a motto that introduces foreign guests to the traditional Georgian family. The heart and soul of the author has been invested in the idea and is felt by the visitors’ impressions.

Twins Wine Cellar Twins Wine Cellar in Napareuli was established by twin brothers Gia and Gela Gamtkitsulashvili. Twins Wine Cellar was re-built on the family’s ancient wine cellar near Telavi, Kakheti region. You will enjoy the organic taste of Georgian wine and see real Georgian feasts and warm family traditions and Georgian hospitality.

Chamber of Georgian Wine A beautiful place in Mtskheta where you can enjoy a wonderful view and follow Georgian traditions, see traditional Georgian clothes, explore the wine cellar, get information about traditional rules of wine storage and more. This is a place where you can relax among a variety of delicious traditional dishes and wines.

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News British Experts Assess Georgian Wine

By Ketevan Kvaratskheliya A group of eleven wine professionals from the United Kingdom, boasting sommeliers, wine importers as well as representatives of media has visited Georgia recently to discover the country’s traditional wines and its ancient viniculture. The visit has been organized by Swirl Wine Group, a contractor company of the National Wine Agency of Georgia.

Within the scope of the visit, the guests traveled to the regions of Kakheti and Kartli to meet with the local winemakers and taste various authentic Georgian wines directly on site. After returning to the capital city, the experts participated in the wine tasting process, where 27 Georgian companies were given an opportunity to introduce their products.

Levan Mekhuzla, Chairman of the National Wine Agency of Georgia stated that Great Britain is one of the largest importers of Georgian wine, thus representing a vital strategic market.

The National Wine Agency reports that the British experts evaluate Georgian wine as unique and state that the country is distinguished for its rich history of viniculture and diversity of grape varieties.

Healthy, Comfy, Innovative: Skola Coffee & Wine Bar While taking a walk along Paliashvili Street in the center of the Georgian capital, which is packed with shops, eateries and offices, a venue called ‘Skola Coffee & Wine Bar’ is certain to catch your eye. School, translated in Georgian as ‘Skola,’ is usually associated with an academic, formal establishment with multiple subjects and endless homework. Yet, Skola Coffee & Wine Bar on Paliashvili, which welcomed its first guests this summer, has something new and pleasant to offer Tbilisians and guests to the city.

Aside from a wonderful, eclectic menu and a wide assortment of refreshments, which we’ll come to in a moment, coffee and wine represent the two major priorities of the founders of Skola. And why exactly, we ask them, coffee and wine?

Coffee is one of the oldest and best loved products worldwide, listed among the leaders of sales across the globe, whereas through 8,000 years of winemaking traditions, wine has become an inalienable part of the Georgian culture and the country in general. Skola Coffee & Wine Bar offers a stunning array of the best coffees, served in lovely mugs with the tinge of artwork on the top, and the best Georgian qvevri wines, undoubtedly winning the hearts of enthusiasts of these two drinks.

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Entrepreneurial News History 1902 History 1902 is the name of a wine restaurant with a new concept, set to welcome its first guests from September with a signature menu based on Georgian motives. Tina Vashakidze and Ia Dzagania, participants of the popular gastronomic show Masterchef (Ia won!), founded the restaurant with filmmaker Giorgi Ovashvili. Ia and Tina worked together on launching the brand Amochame, which offers diverse pepper and onion confiture. The ladies visited a 19th-century wine cellar where the French Ambassador to Georgia has been holding meetings since 1902, and were so impressed, it led them to the idea of founding a restaurant. Six months later, their vision came to fruition.

Gugoshvilebis Marani A new wine cellar “Gugoshvilebis Marani” (Gugoshvili’s Cellar), integrating three hectares of orchards and 15 hectares of vineyards, has been opened in Kvareli.

Guests will have an opportunity to try wine tasting hosted by Tamaz Gugoshvili, who started planting orchards and vineyards many years ago with the idea to transform the territory into a cellar from the very beginning. Today, guests will discover a tasting room, clay bread oven, a barbeque and old-style factory on site. Chacha distillation also takes place here and there is a tank for 150 tons of wine in the cellar.

Odila The first wine bar and library has been launched in Tusheti. An economist by profession, Mari Lavilava was inspired to do more with her husband’s century-old house, which has been serving as a guest house for years. The bar was named Odila and the founders say they wanted to create a pleasant environ for tourists and promote local viticulturists. Plans for the future move beyond the limits of the region: guests of Odila will soon be able to taste wines from different regions of Georgia. To add more comfort to the venue, a library was also launched on site.

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The Georgian Harvest (Rtveli)

By Katie Ruth Davies

Georgia is upping its reputation as the world’s Cradle of Wine, boasting archeological evidence of 8000 years of winemaking. That, plus the fact that the Georgian wine vessel, the ‘Qvevri’, is on UNESCO’s list of cultural heritage, means an increasing number of wine-makers are being encouraged to revive their traditions, bring back almost redundant grape species (of which Georgia boasts some 500) and commercialize their products.

There are traditions to harvesting grapes, and it’s a serious late summer-early autumn business, particularly in Kakheti, Georgia’s top wine-making region, though many young guesthouses and old wine cellars are cashing in on the tourist potential of letting tourists give it a try. There are numerous places in Kakheti which allow you to pick and crush grapes, make chacha (pomace vodka- very strong!!!) or at the very least witness the wine-making process in some form before you to sit back and enjoy a few glasses with your dinner.

And of course, harvest is not all about wine- you’ll see a lot of other products on the shelves and stalls countrywide.

Here’s a sneak preview.

Things you’ll see during the Georgian harvest season: Qvevri Giant clay amphora buried underground, filled with crushed grapes and sealed shut for months to ferment wine. The earliest evidence of the use of Qvevri in wine-making is 8000 years old.

The Wine Press (satsnakheli)

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Traditionally made of wood, these have been used for centuries to separate the juice from the pomace.

Pumpkins and Gourds

or stored. Walnuts appear in many Georgian dishes, particularly around New Year’s. The walnut tree leaves are also nice boiled, known for their curative properties.

Persimmon (karalioki) While the leaves are still green, this fruit almost glows fire-bright in the autumn sun. It is eaten fresh, made into jam or hung up to dry as a New Year holiday treat.

Corn Though harvesting begins in summer- with cries of “Tskheli simindi” [hot corn] heard on every beach by the corn sellers- corn is as much an autumn treat, served boiled, hot and salty, ideal in cooler weather.

Surprisingly, Georgians eat their pumpkins - Halloween pumpkin carving is something only just beginning to be seen, having been brought here by expats and Hollywood movies. You’ll see them in orange, green and white, and in a variety of sizes and shapes. Gourds come in a choice of sizes. The largest were once carved and used as scoops to clean out the pomace from qvevris.

Walnuts In late September-early October, walnuts countrywide begin to fall (or be blown or shaken) from their trees. Once collected, the skins are removed and the nuts are left to dry for a week or so before being eaten

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Bars & Cafes with Live Music in Tbilisi

By Nini Dakhundaridze

The only thing greater than the great cultural experience the city of Tbilisi offers is the live music to be found inside the walls of crowded cafes and bars. Here are a few of our favorite places for a night out on the town.

MacLaren’s Irish Pub

Situated in the heart of old Tbilisi, MacLaren’s Irish Pub is one of the best places for music lovers. During the week and over the weekend, the traditional Irish pub offers live music from talented musicians. The traditional Irish atmosphere, and a choice between a pint of Ireland’s famous ‘Murphy’s Irish Stout’, England’s favorite ‘Newcastle Brown Ale’ or the Czech Republic’s legendary ‘Gambrinus’ perfect the experience. The menu offers a variety of traditional filling pub dishes.

Live performances start at 10 PM daily, except Monday and Tuesday. They promise a great mood at MacLaren’s and the fact that most nights it’s packed to bursting is testimony of this.

elsewhere in Tbilisi. The underground bar can be found crowded with the friendliest people. You will see the people-to-people bonding in the line at the door and before you know it, you’ll all be jumping and dancing shoulder-toshoulder. Drinks are relatively cheap, the music is loud and every night there’s a live music program. All the staff members are super nice. Whether it’s your first time in Sakhelosno or your 30th, you’ll feel like you belong. The controversial issue here is that from 1 AM, the bar allows indoor smoking – keep that in mind.

However, they welcome guests as long as they’re willing to stay. The fun in Sakhelosno usually goes on until six in the morning.

28 Kote Afkhazi Street (Leselidze) (+995) 592 18 66 48 7 PM – 4 AM.

Old London

5 Rkinis Rigi Street (+995) 555 65 46 46 2 PM – 2 AM

Sakhelosno Bar Sakhelosno is a social miracle, giving its guests an experience unlikely to be had

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Like many British Pubs, Old London has live music every night. Located on a cozy street, it is equally cozy and offers delicious food and good drinks.

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The live music is relaxing at times and energizing at others. The prices are reasonable and the staff is very friendly; what else could you want from a pub?

6 G. Akhvlediani Street (+995) 599 04 71 77 5 PM – 2 AM

Nali

We often hear people comparing the Georgian and the Irish. There is some sense to it as yet another live music bar in this article carries Irish descent.

Nali pub was founded in 1998.

Since then, it has served a plethora of happy local and expat customers.

Located on Kiacheli Street, one of the most beautifully poetic streets in Tbilisi, the bar offers great live music.

The atmosphere is nice and regulars recommend the reasonable priced beer!

4/1 Leo Kiacheli Street (+995) 322 43 04 20 3 PM – 3 AM

The Divine Wines of Divino

By Ketevan Kvaratskheliya

After 8,000 years of unique winemaking traditions, Georgia has been recognized as the cradle of wine, meaning that tasting a glass or two of authentic Georgian wine is certainly a ‘must’ during your visit to the country.

While walking through the ‘labyrinth’ of narrow streets in the picturesque old district of the ancient capital of Georgia, which represents a symbol of the diversity of the country, you should make sure you cross paths with an incredible wine bar named Divino.

Following the motto “Come and Explore Georgian Wine,” Divino welcomed its first guests just over a year ago, but has already gained popularity among locals, as well as visitors to the country, as here you can travel into the world of Georgian viniculture and choose your favorite among an impressive assortment of 500 wines of different tastes and grape varieties presented on site.

So as guests feel full comfort, the founders of the venue take care of even the finest details. All the wines found on the huge shelves of the wine bar have been brought from the wine cellars of different regions of Georgia, having been through a very strict selection process conducted by experts in the field, only after approval being added to Divino’s collection.

Snacks or dishes paired with wine are of crucial importance for creating an entire bouquet of tastes and prolonging the

pleasure. At Divino, you can enjoy wines served with plates of Georgian cheese, meat products presented with marinated tomatoes, as well as absolutely delicious Georgian sweets with dried orange slices, all of which have also been carefully selected by the team of professionals.

Divino not only seeks to introduce Georgian wines, but enables its guests to discover their history and the ancient methods of Georgia’s winemaking in general. Divino offers a ‘six wine package,’ boasting three red and three white wine varieties through which clientele has an opportunity to take a sort of ‘tour’ and delve into the incredible story of Georgian viniculture.

Along with the thrilling amount of wines, as well as Georgian chacha and brandy,

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the ambience of the venue is certainly worth spotlighting. With the elements of traditional furniture and wonderful local musical pieces, Divino creates an authentic Georgian air and represents a fabulous place for spending time with friends.

On a final note, on leaving Divino be sure to purchase a bottle or two of wine and continue appreciating Georgia’s 8,000 years of winemaking history at home.

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The Georgian Wine Route 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 (+995) 32210 30 44, (+995) 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 (+995) 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

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3 Tbilisi Highway, Telavi (+995) 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 (+995) 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 (+995) 32 249 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 (+995) 32 242 40 42, (+995) 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 (+995) 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

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Palace have been completely renovated.

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 (+995) 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.

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Wine Cellar Kakhuri 1 Tbilisi Highway, Telavi (+995) 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 (+995) 32 293 50 73, (+995) 599 80 85 39

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 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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Alaverdi village, Akhmeta (+995) 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 (+995) 32 255 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

Eldar Pirmisashvili Founder and Managing Director at influencer.ge, Public Relations Expert

Samoseli Pirveli To get a true idea of the Georgian style, customs and traditions you simply must pay a visit to “Samoseli Pirveli� where you can find National Georgian clothes redesigned into modern, everyday wear.

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Galleria Tbilisi If you’re near Liberty (Freedom) Square, pop into Tbilisi’s latest shopping mall for premium brands: CK, Armani, Trussardi, and more.

Tbilisi Mall Ideal for shopping, relaxation and amusement, Tbilisi Mall is the biggest mall in Tbilisi with more than 130 worldwide brands to explore.

DRy Bridge We also have flea market on the so called “Dry Bridge” in the old part of Tbilisi, the best place to discover old accessories, antiques, vintage jewelry and some items guaranteed to surprise!

Pokany Gallery & Shardeni Street If you are fond of buying beautiful, glamorous, gorgeous and aesthetic accessories, you must take a walk along Shardeni Street, one of the most beautiful and popular streets in Old Tbilisi. You can also find cloisonné enamel art and hand-crafted artifacts that are popular among tourists in the “Pokany” gallery shop.

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News Justin McKenzie Smith: Marks & Spencer Clothing #MadeinGeorgia Justin McKenzie Smith, the British Ambassador to Georgia, has published a tweet on his official Twitter page. The minimal yet informative post tells us that a piece of clothing of popular British brand Marks & Spencer was made in Georgia.

“So, my wife’s birthday present from Marks & Spencer in the #UK had a message inside about growing trade links with #Georgia... #დამზადებულიასაქართველოში [#MadeinGeorgia],” reads the British Ambassador’s tweet.

The sewing factories in western Georgia produce clothing for international brands. Marks & Spencer – a British label known for its high-quality and style – is one of them.

McKenzie’s tweet showing off the UK’s “growing trade links with Georgia” further emphasizes the context of the ongoing three-month UK Season 2019 in Georgia. #UKGeorgia is a specially curated program of more than 60 events jointly presented by the British Council in Georgia and the British Embassy in Tbilisi. Through showing the similarities and common ties between the two countries, the UK/Georgia Season aims to show Georgia the culture of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Additionally, the officials from the British Embassy Tbilisi have noted that the United Kingdom will be hosting a ‘Georgian Season’ in 2020.

Demna GvasaLia Left Vetements

By Ketevan Kvaratskheliya The famous Georgian fashion designer Demna Gvasalia, who has brought major changes in the world of fashion over the past few years, has announced his decision to step down from the position of Head Designer of the revolutionary brand Vetements, through which Gvasalia introduced an outstanding street style.

The label was launched by Demna and his brother Guram Gvasalia five years ago, and quickly and strongly established itself in the fashion industry.

“Vetements has always been a collective of creative minds. We will continue to push the boundaries even further, respecting codes and the authentic values of the brand, and keep on supporting honest creativity and genuine talent,” said Guram Gvasalia in an official statement. “What Demna has accomplished over the past few years represents a key chapter in the story of Vetements. We are very grateful to him for having contributed to the great momentum of the house.”

Demna continues working as Creative Director of the prominent Balenciaga fashion house.

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9 Georgian Books to be Translated

By Nini Dakhundaridze Writers House has announced a list of Georgian books that will soon be available for a wider international public.

The 9 different literary works will be translated into five languages: German, French, Italian, Arabic, and Turkish.

Ana Kordzaia-Samadashvili’s Zinka Human, Shorena Lebanidze’s ‘It is me – Pirosmani,’ Daniel Chonkadze’s ‘Surami Fortress,’ and Mikheil Javakhishvili’s ‘Jako’s Dispossessed’ will be translated into German.

French translation will be processed for the following books: Giorgi Kekelidze’s ‘Toma’s Fairytales’ and Davit Kldiashvili’s ‘Unhappiness.’

Poetry Collection of Georgian and Italian authors will be translated into Italian.

The poets with Georgian names who worked for the collection are Manon Buliskeria, Ela Gochiashvili, Eter Tataraidze, Maia Sarishvili, Eka Kevanishvili, Mariam Tsiklauri, and Kato Javakhishvili.

Turkish translation will be provided for Irakli Kakabadze’s ‘Before Appearing.’

Otar Chiladze’s ‘One Man Was Going Down the Road’ will be translated into Arabic.

New Georgian Multifunctional Space “Dariali” Opens in Barcelona

By Ana Dumbadze Dariali is the name of a new multifunctional space, opened on October 8 in the Casa Tomas Roger building in Barcelona, one of the city’s most beautiful 19th century buildings, with a Georgian team behind it.

The authors of the idea are designers Maka Asatiani, recognized as a symbol of Georgian beauty, and Jaba Diasamidze, who is the Creative Designer of the project.

“Dariali,” apart from the function of selling clothes, items and books, also includes a gallery and restaurant in its space.

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Entrepreneurial News Weber Technologies Weber Technologies is the latest ‘Made in Georgia’ producer! A Georgian company operating in the technological field, it recently introduced electric vehicle chargers of Georgian production, an initiative coming from the increasing popularity of electro vehicles and the desire to create an eco-friendly environ. David Khasia, founder, states that the product has Georgian interface and software and is also assembled in Georgia. Weber Technologies’ chargers enable consumers to control the kilowatt/hour and cost of charging. Starting capital came in the form of a Tech Park grant worth 5,000 GEL, backed up by the financial resources of the founders themselves.

Stack Georgian startup Stack is launching an alternative internet browser. Founders Giorgi Laliashvili, David Gavasheli, Dachi Gubadze, Zviad Sichinava, Irakli Pkhakadze, Dan Plaza and Guillerme Weiss spent three difficult months looking for starting capital and strategic partners, before engaging their company in an acceleration program. Of 930 startups, the Austrian 360LAB Accelerator selected Stack among the top five to receive investment and benefit from a four-month acceleration in the city of Graz. Stack is the first alternative browser suited to apps, and it boasts diverse functions and capabilities. Customers can open five or more web applications on one board.

Auto Element Auto Element is a new mobile app offering a new, flexible and innovative service to automobile owners- connecting stores selling automobile parts and drivers, direct, without the need for mediators.

Creators Murad Bartishvili and Biktor Saldadze came up with the idea after a time-consuming issue they had trying to find an automobile part. Auto Element allows drivers to connect directly to a store that sells parts for their model of car, live. Just a month after the presentation of the app, the number of automobile parts stores registered is over 200 and application downloads count 1,772.

AE Solar AE Solar, a solar panel producer, was recently launched in the Free Industrial Zone of Kutaisi. A number of countries across three continents, Europe (EU members), the USA and Asia, are to be supplied with solar panels produced in Kutaisi. Sprawled across 16,000 sq.m., the enterprise plans to generate solar panels of 500 MW capacity annually. The production process is supervised by German engineers and technicians.

Through the high-quality products and services, AE Solar is among the leaders of the renewable energy industry. Within the scope of the Free Trade Agreement, solar panels will be distributed from Kutaisi to the European market at the first stage.

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www.Tradewithgeorgia.com www.Tradewithgeorgia.com is a new digital catalog enabling Georgian businesspersons and entrepreneurs to present more information about their products to reach wider audiences. Promotion of the innovative platform is taking place within the framework of the project GEclose2EU, jointly launched by the Economic Policy Research Center (EPRC) and Enterprise Georgia Agency. The project is aimed at supporting SMEs, increasing their popularity on the European market and creating new opportunities for internationalization.

TMT TMT is to launch on the Californian market, a natural oil brand produced by the Sighnaghi Company in accordance with traditional methods. Founder Zurab Uchumbegashvili says that test batches of the product, 1000 bottles, have already been sent to the USA. This is the second line of the company. The first exports took place under the Mikho Papa brand name three year ago, launching in California, New York and Washington. Aside from the USA, the company’s products are currently exported to Israel, the Czech Republic and Germany. Along with oil, the company also has a cannery which has successfully assimilated the same markets. It is to start exporting jams, confiture, compotes and condiments in autumn.

SAPO In a contest launched by the British Council and bringing together 90 participants from 7 countries, Georgian startup SAPO was named the winner. The innovative concept of Naili Vakhania and Tengiz Kavkasidze. SAPO is handmade soap made of natural ingredients, aiming to encourage children to love handwashing. The soap comes in the shape of an animal, each with its own character story in a booklet. The stories are missing the last page, which are rolled up and hidden in the soap. To find out how the story ends, children are motivated to use the soap frequently. SAPO was launched on the base of the Art Incubator at the Business and Technology University.

Biodynamic Biodynamic agriculture is a method that produces biologically clean products. The global demand for it is growing by the year and Georgia is no exception in this tendency, seen in the Naturpuri store which opened in Tbilisi. Founder Luka Tsulaia, who has been running biodynamic agriculture company Pona for the last four years, produces over 70 products. To popularize Pona’s products, Tsulaia opened Naturpuri to make biologically clean products more affordable for customers. The goal is to promote the importance and necessity of healthy nutrition. He also plans to create a shop-café space so consumers can taste the healthy production on location.

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Wood-Be

By Tony Hanmer

It is refreshing to come to a place where people still know how to make anything from wood. In Georgia, when you buy an outdoor tool such a shovel, scythe or rake, you usually get it without a handle.

Of course, you know which species of tree will give you the missing piece, right?

And how to actually make it so that it will serve you for years. Each kind of wood has its pluses and minuses for a particular use, from bow to bowl. Strength,

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density, hardness, grain and more all play roles in making these decisions.

centuries, but it may be encrusted all over with images which tell their own story.

Aside from function, which is usually as unadorned as possible to work with a minimum of effort and fuss, there is form, which may become as decorative as one wishes, and often does. Here, wood carving comes into its own, with levels of detail down to millimeter scales. The piece is still meant to last decades if not longer,

The sakurtskhili is the traditional wooden chair used only by the elder male of a household in Svaneti. These always take a particular right-angled, boxy form, but the uniqueness of each comes from how the maker has decorated it with carving, either geometric symbols with their own meanings of figurative work requested

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by the person commissioning the piece. It can range from very modernly simple to completely covered with relief sculpture, this even spilling over into the round.

Doors are another item which often takes fantastic detail. The main door of the Pkhotreri Archangel’s Church in Etseri, Upper Svaneti, has had its Apostles’ faces rubbed smooth in places by nearly a millennium of hands. A modern copy in the main Mestia museum displays how rich the complete carving was as it was originally. Mestia and Ushguli are centers for wood carving in Svaneti, but many other villages also offer their master craftsmen making furniture and other things for themselves and others, from tiny earring versions of the famous Svan towers to doors which can cost thousands of dollars, after hundreds of hours’ handwork.

All over Georgia furniture making and wood techniques can be found.

Sometimes in an old house one can find multi-part, handmade wooden doors which at first glance would seem to have been made by machine. Why would they go to such lengths when a door can be so simple? Pride of work, one suspects.

The beauty is there for anyone to see and appreciate. And the value of these old items speaks for their desirability.

There may also be carved wooden balcony decorations, some decades old and often with the date carved right in, which are simple decoration but add to the uniqueness and value to a place.

fake, machine-made, short-term things surround us, the longevity, warmth and reality of wood brings us back to simpler times, when there was time to make such things and real appreciation for them. They are worth having, treasuring, handing down to future generations.

One can commission a piece or a set, choose the dimensions, materials and finish, and pick it up or have it delivered anywhere in the world. Yes, international shipping prices may not be cheap, but it can be done if necessary. The allure of the handmade, and of the solid, the longlasting, the unique, makes wood furniture a good investment which will bring years upon years of pleasure to owners and visitors alike. As well, you are supporting ancient traditions and techniques and makers, allowing them to continue their work and make a living from it.

Here are some starting points for those interested in wood items.

Edward Chandler, Tbilisi— furniture of all kinds, including teaching courses in making it!

557 775799 (English); Rocky Mountain Custom Wood Designs on Facebook

Temuri Gugeshashvili—Traditional furniture. Family Hotel Gallery, Oni, Racha. https://georgiantour.com/hotelsand-services/racha-hotels/gallery-oni/ Tel. 599 23 17 22 (Russian and English) Aluda Gurchiani, Etseri, Upper Svaneti—traditional furniture.

598 143605 (Georgian and Russian) Besiki Nizharadze, Ushguli, Upper Svaneti—traditional furniture and souvenirs.

599 963698 (Georgian and Russian) Vano Charqseliani, Ushguli, Upper Svaneti—traditional furniture and souvenirs.

599 434633 (Georgian and Russian) 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

If a door or window frame is getting too old to be of use as intended, you could always turn it into a rustic picture frame, for which there is also considerable demand. In a world where

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The Best of Georgian Brands

By Katie Ruth Davies

There’s a plethora of “Made in Georgia” products in the world, but some are still locally-kept secrets yet to be whisked abroad to an international audience, though we doubt it will be long. Check some of them out below.

Usune

These innovative bakers offer bread and sweets baked with bio-yeast and high quality ingredients. They work with the 155-year-old German company IREKS, a further guarantee that you’ll be getting something good!

Kashne

Shoesofrenia – Handmade shoes

Georgian-made perfume presented in a beautiful wooden box. ‘Usune’ means ‘smell it’- and you will definitely want to!

Feminine, masculine and unisex scents, and fragrant, decorative and functional soaps, Usune products make the ideal gift or personal treat: this Georgian brand is a must!

Sector D-3 Bakery

Whether you’re a lady looking for soft leather flats, boots or sandals, this designer is sure to have something that you’ll not only love but that will wrap around your feet like cotton. The best and most professional service and wonderful, creative designs.

Find them at Abashidze 51, Vake, Tbilisi.

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Find them on a stand in the malls- gorgeous silk scarves for days and nights out, and to set off that perfect spring and

WHITE STUDIO

autumn outfit; thicker scarves and hats for chillier weather. There are plenty of colors to choose from. We particularly like their latest Samurai line.

Tsivis Yveli (Tsivi Cheese)

The Tsivis Kveli cheese producer was founded in 2008 near Telavi, Kakheti, in Kurdgelauri village. They use cow and buffalo milk to make a variety of delicious traditional and modern cheese, including smoked sulguni and Georgian “Sulgunela” (Mozzarella) which is produced with Italian technologies. The factory offers guests the chance to discover how cheese-making works and to taste the end results of their labors.

BADAGI

Known as the Georgian Snickers, lasting months and ideal for every occasion, they can be bought almost anywhere in the city. You can even make them yourself on a trip to the Kakheti wine-making region, but why do that when you have the best brand right on your doorstep?

Badagi stores offer smooth, soft churchkhelas with walnuts or hazelnuts; red grape or white. They also offer dried fruit and a selection of wine if you really want to indulge in the Georgian experience. It may be a small locale, but it is heaven (and quite addictive!).

The White Studio ceramics shop and studio below offers clients high quality modern works of ceramics and contemporary forms with traditional Georgian elements- making it the ideal stop when looking for something different to take home. Tired with the repetitive souvenirs on offer, owner and co-founder Nato Eristavi decided to train up some young local artists in world-renowned technologies and get them working with ‘Georgian porcelain’ to create something unusual but totally in-line with modern trends.

Each piece on display is totally exclusive and there is a wide range of prices, meaning almost everyone can find something they can afford!

If you’ve been in Georgia any length of time beyond a day, you’ll likely have come across “churchkhela,” those long brown waxy-looking sticks with knobbly bits.

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Arttent: Newcomer To The Tbilisi Art Scene EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW by Lorraine Vaney

How was the project born?

Sitting on the top of Mtastminda with a spectacular view over the city, the new contemporary art gallery “ARTTENT” opened in the midst of the summer on July 25. It took just one month for a handful of energetic Tbilisians to turn a spontaneous idea into an innovative cultural hub. The

multifunctional space has many upcoming projects, and strong vision for the development of the local art scene and cultural ties between Georgia and the rest of the world. Maya Bichikashvili, who initiated the project, aims to make ARTTENT the next key actor of the Georgian art scene.

I have done many things in my professional life, but eventually, everything boiled down to art. So, even if the idea of an art gallery came somehow spontaneously, it was clear to me that art is at the basis of everything. Art is something that brings you back to the roots and to the original meaning of any kind of creation, regardless of the fields and purposes. This tent was here, on the historic site of the Tbilisi Funicular’s upper station, for four years. It was used for many events but when I contacted the owner, Alexander Tsivtsivadze, he saw the potential of the project and became our partner. Then, everything sped up thanks to the motivated and committed people I had the chance to gather around the idea.

ARTTENT is now hosting more than 200 artworks created by Georgian artists from different generations.

What is the art direction of the exhibition?

‘The Anatomy of Existence’ was curated by professional art manager Thea Goguadze and a talented artist known as Tea Nili.

She was the only one in town who was up for such a challenge; opening a contemporary platform in just one month. She used her contacts and her notoriety to select the pieces that, once combined, best express the variety of Georgian perspectives on their city and country. The exhibition offers

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a comprehensive overview of Georgian art and of the diverse mediums used by artists to express their visions. After our successful start, she became the ARTTENT director.

Besides the exhibition itself, what does ARTTENT aim to bring to the Georgian art scene?

The exhibition is a great platform for Georgian artists to show their work to a wide audience. Mtatsminda is obviously a strategic touristic location, and ARTTENT is building up the artistic reputation of Georgia among foreigners. It actually goes beyond tourism, as art is a way to strengthen cultural exchanges with foreign countries. It has to do with public diplomacy, and it can surely benefit Georgian society as a whole. For the art scene itself, we are supporting emerging artists by promoting their work to curators and doing consultancy for companies looking to purchase art. We will also organize educational activities and workshops, bringing artists and art lovers closer together.

You are also opening a café, a co-working space and a concept store. What kind of community

would you like to attract or create?

Art takes many forms and so does ARTTENT. The aim is to create something new, and meaningful for Georgia, where people from various backgrounds can mingle and exchange. People here are sometimes reluctant to get out of their own circles, which is at the end damaging to the development of our potential as a society. ARTTENT provides this inclusive venue for anyone involved in or attracted to art, from Georgia or from abroad.

How do see the future of ARTTENT? We want to team up with international partners and go global. Of course, there will be challenges on the way but with the right vision and the right team, it is possible to overcome them. Challenges are actually opportunities to learn on the way. The artistic scene is developing in Georgia and I wish it to get more and more attention from specialized media and professional art managers from overseas. Art is a way to secure the reputation of Georgia as a creative and welcoming place. It opens a lot of opportunities, and ARTTENT is ready to take up the challenge.

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ON AT ARTTENT NOW Exhibition of Georgian Artist Ia Liparteliani at ArtTent Gallery After graduating the Tbilisi Academy of Arts, Ia Liparteluani worked as an interior designer.

Since 2015, she has been creating paintings mainly in acrylic. In her works she explores society and its relations to its architectural surrounding, demonstrating individual views and values, fusing material and universal aspects of our everyday lives, displaying the eternal cycle of self-expression.

Her works have been displayed at a number of international exhibitions in Italy, USA, Ukraine, Great Britain and Canada.

This will be her second solo exhibition in Tbilisi.

“Migration is relocation or resettlement for various periods of time - from several hours to the end of life, which can be either permanent, temporary or forced.

Certain steps have to be taken to choose the best direction. The move may not bring the desired effect or vice versa… The move starts to look like a golf game where you need to fight for the target points, there are many points ... targets shots are diverse, meanwhile, time passes which you can neither change nor reverse ...”- says Ia Liparteliani.

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Books about Georgian Wine It’s wine season (isn’t it always?!) and to celebrate, we’ve picked out our Top 5 favorite books about Georgian wine. So, grab a glass, snuggle up by the fireplace and get reading!

For the Love of Wine: My Odyssey through the World’s Most Ancient Wine Culture (2016)

by Alice Feiring

smitten, and she wasn’t alone. This country on the Black Sea has an unusual effect on people; the most passionate rip off their clothes and drink wines out of horns while the cold-hearted well up with tears and make emotional toasts. Visiting winemakers fall under Georgia’s spell and bring home qvevris (clay fermentation vessels) while rethinking their own techniques.

UNTAMED: 8000 Vintages of Georgian Wine (2018)

by Anna Saldadze

Whenever a vine grows, its fronds interwine with countless human stories.

Man’s labour brings forth drink from the vine and poets sing its praises. Kings and fools together marvel at the wisdom it bestows.

Along the southern slopes of the Caucasus Mountain range, in today’s Georgia, archaeological finds have confirmed that people here were making wine as early as 6,000 B.C. Even a glance at Georgia’s contemporary wine-making culture reveals that the methods have not changed much since then. In this long, unbroken tradition, the world has inherited two main methods of making wine: the European one, in wooden barrels and the Georgian one, in clay qvevris buried in the earth. Nowhere else has a nation’s culture and history been so closely linked to the vine, and nowhere else has a nation struggled so hard to survive.

Untamed is an invitation to understand this unique relationship between Georgians and their wine; to explore different grapes and terroirs, and to discover the joy-filled philosophy of a small nation that has so much to offer the world.

In 2011 when Alice Feiring first arrived in Georgia, she felt as if she’d emerged from the magic wardrobe into a world filled with mythical characters making exotic and delicious wine with the low-tech methods of centuries past. She was

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Tasting Georgia: A Food and Wine Journey in the Caucasus (2017)

beautifully illustrated book is both a cookbook and a cultural guide to the personal, artisan-made foods and wines that make Georgia such a special place on the world’s gastronomic map.

called “kvevri”, Georgia offers up a wine for everyone and delicious local dishes to accompany them. This is your complete guide to the wines, food, and people of this beautiful land.

Georgia: A Guide to the Cradle of Wine

Author and wine expert Miquel Hudin was awarded “Best Drink Writer of 2017” by the prestigious Fortnum & Mason Awards.

Uncorking The Caucasus: Wines From Turkey, Armenia, And Georgia

by Dr Matthew Horkey and Charine Tan

by Carla Capalbo

by Miquel Hudin, Daria Kholodilina

Uncorking the Caucasus is about the wines from Turkey, Armenia, and Georgia. Part travel narrative and part wine guide, this book will take readers on a tasting tour through the wine regions in the three countries, recommend the best wine each place has to offer, provide anecdotal insights into the wine culture of each country, and discuss the history of ancient winemaking based on archeological evidence and folklore.

The winner of the prestigious André Simon Award explores Georgia’s culinary traditions.

Nestled between the Caucasus Mountains and the Black Sea, and with a climate similar to the Mediterranean’s, Georgia has colorful, delicious food. Vegetables blended with walnuts and vibrant herbs, subtly spiced meat stews and home-baked pies like the irresistible cheese-filled khachapuri are served at generous tables all over the country. Georgia is also one of the world’s oldest winemaking areas, with wines traditionally made in qvevri: large clay jars buried in the ground.

Award-winning food writer and photographer Capalbo has traveled around Georgia collecting recipes and gathering stories from food and winemakers in this stunning but little-known country. The

Recipient of the Geoffrey Roberts Award and called “...the definitive guide to this unique country’s wines” by The Guardian, this book delves head first into the 8,000 year-old wine traditions of the Republic of Georgia.

A storied past, this mountainous country on the Black Sea is finally getting recognition for its unique and wonderful wines and grapes including Rkatsiteli, Saperavi, Chinuri, Krakhuna, Kisi, and over 400 more. Made in both the “international method” of barrel and tank aging as well as the ancient method of terracotta pots

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Based on the authors’ three-month wine travel trip through the Caucasus, this book takes a ground-level approach which enables the readers to experience an intimate journey through the cradle of wine. Turkey, Armenia, and Georgia all claim to be the birthplace of wine. Some of those claims are supported by archaeological findings and some by anecdotal evidence. However, this book isn’t about determining the birthplace of wine, but rather the goal is to capture the ethos of a wine region that is the connection between wine, people, and place.

For the wines highlighted in this book, besides their sensory merits, they should also inspire conversations, spark curiosity, and reflect an inspiring point of view that challenges the narrative of wine.

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Shopping for Antiques

By Katie Ruth Davies

Tbilisi is a treasure-trove for hunters of the old. Until recently, you could snap up something really valuable for a bargain as the owners of said pieces of art or furniture needed the money more than the greed.

Of late, though, and with the increased interest of local and foreign buyers, antiques dealers have smartened up and while you’ll still be getting it cheaper than elsewhere in the world, you’ll be paying more than you would have a few years back. Not as good for your pocket, but a

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proud sign that Georgia is coming back from the dark times of post-civil war poverty.

VELVET Velvet is an antiques store located in the hip neighborhood near the Marjanishvili metro - a formerly industrial area which has been undergoing a revival.

Velvet sells everything from clothing to furniture to clever home decor pieces. You

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can find an old typewriter, decorative lampshade, and classic Soviet posters.

While you’re shopping, you can also grab a cup of coffee, a cocktail, or a piece of cake at the cafe inside!

Fabrika, 1 E. Ninoshvili St., Tbilisi DIADEMA This prestigious antique shop offering a wide selection of exclusive jewelry and antiques.

For more than 20 years, its designers and masters have cared deeply and lovingly about making Diadema jewelry distinctive and contemporary.

Each set of precious and semi-precious colored stones collections is unique.

Reliability, exclusivity and professionalism are the criteria that have led to the development of Diadema as the first Georgian jewelry brand and its successful operation on the market.

In addition to jewelry made in Georgia, you will find rare antiques and paintings by renowned artists.

Not an antiques expert but still fancy taking home something with a genuine Soviet air? The best stop for the average browser is THE DRY BRIDGE FLEA MARKET. As The Financial put it, “It’s an open-air gallery where normal people can earn some money for day-to-day living by selling antiques and modern pieces of art.

No fixed prices exist in this place.

Sometimes you can buy a valuable item for far less than its actual cost.”

The rich variety of odds and ends on sale are as diverse as Tbilisi itself. In the tough days of Soviet Union and the early time of independence, the Dry Bridge is where empty-pocketed people of Tbilisi would come to sell their possessions for some

18 Marjanishvili Str., Tbilisi

quick cash. For a few, it’s the same today, but for most it has become a livelihood.

You can find anything in the world here: vinyls, crockery, old currencies, fancy jewelery, paintings, tools, unique treasures from the Soviet Union era war such as helmets, knives, belts, binoculars, cameras and much more.

Head back across the bridge towards Alexandrouli Park and you’ll find a selection of antiques stores promising a wondrous cave of treasure buried in the elegant 19th century renovated buildings.

Paintings, furniture, ceramics and more await the sharp-eyed buyer.

Enjoy shopping!

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Tbilisi Concept Stores

By Katie Ruth Davies

Looking for something interesting and special that doesn’t come from a commercial line that everyone else is wearing? Got your own product that you think could make some money with the right artistically-minded audience? Look no further than Tbilisi, a hot-bed of artistic vision that merges old and new, and the weird and wacky with the conventional.

Every year sees a new conceptual store opening its doors, giving you the chance to get your hands on handmade, original, exotic, antique, interpreted or created items by artists who have character and history. These types of shops add to the charm of any city, and Tbilisi is ready to serve.

discovered there was a shortage of handmade local products in Georgia. I decided to create a sophisticated design myself,” Humanoid says. “At first, I would only sell my own sewn leather goods, and then I thought I would also find things created by people of interest to artists.

17² (17 Kvadrati) This handicrafts and accessories store has been in Tbilisi for years now, located in the courtyard of the Museum of Literature, and it recently opened a branch in Kutaisi.

17² features leather goods (bags, shoes and other accessories) created by its founder, Nicholas Humanoid, as well as products for everyday use created by other artists.

Nicholas says the creation of his store was dictated by a shortage of handmade items on the market.

“The idea of founding 17² came when I

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“We named it “17²” because of the square footage of the store. We’ve expanded over the years to design products, materials, manufacturing techniques, but what never changes is the idea, concept and quality.”

Enjoy exploring 17² for tableware, textiles, furniture, lighting, paintings, posters, knitwear, jewelry and toys.

8 Chanturia St., Tbilisi

CHAOS CONCEPT STORE Rebellion, freedom, fashion… and yes, a bit of chaos awaits you in the loft space on the central Kostava Street. Huge windows, a lot of light and air, a simple wooden

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floor with a huge bed, ping-pong table and a skate ramp – this showroom was created not just for quick shopping, but for spending time.

Four co-founders, young Georgian creatives, decided to shape up the place where local designers could sell their work alongside international brands who share asimilar philosophy. Quirky shapes, provocative prints and a touch of 90s spirit.

You’ll find Adam Selman, J.W. Anderson, Nattofranco and Pawaka among the international brands, while Nicholas Grigorian, Gola Damian, George Keburia represent the Georgian side.

IERI

Chaos Concept Store shares the building with famous Rooms Hotel Tbilisi, so during Tbilisi Fashion Week and Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, it turns into a magnetic place for international fashionistas.

14 Merab Kostava St., Tbilisi

Magic Shop on Janashia

products and Soviet vintage, and “Nino,” an unworn collection sewed back in the 90s.

The clothes are able to portray stories of romance, society and even politics. An extremely unique place that merges the worlds of art and fashion. Highly recommended.

Fabrika, 8 E. Ninoshvili St., Tbilisi

BLACK DOG SHOP

Here you can get various “magical” items – renovated furniture, lamps and chandeliers, knitted clothes, home accessories, handmade toys, vintage style tableware, wood/ceramic hangers, posters and paintings, all inspired by the “fairies.”

28 Sh. Janashia St., Tbilisi

FLYING PAINTER ATELIER STORE Each piece of clothing in this store is referred to as art, and each piece tells a story. Check out conceptual clothing and accessories created by artists, designer

With just a glance at the interior design of the place or the collection IERI has to offer, it is evident that the founders and managers are professionals. Anka Tsitsishvili, well-known fashion expert, is a creative director and a buyer for IERI. Sofia Guguberidze, an international expert in luxury business management, is the project director. The design of IERI was made in cooperation with Georgian studio ‘Objects,’ under the ownership of Keti Asatiani and Nuka Korinteli.

Black Dog Shop sells unique Georgian books, posters and postcards. Sort of a more upscale Dry Bridge, Black Dog is full of hidden treasures, with something new to find every time you come in – like handmade masks for Halloween or art installations like One Wall Gallery! Plus, you are supporting local artists, which is always very cool.

The IERI concept store presents 25 designers who are originally from Georgia or who have found their inspiration here: 0711, Atare Anbani, Babukhadia, Crosty, Eshvi, George Bezani, George Keburia, Idée Fixe, Ingorokva, Lalo, Le Chic Radical, Le Mocassin Zippe, Liya, Materiel, Moods Collection, Ria Keburia, Situationist, Sofio Gongli, Tatuna, Tiko Paksa, and Tushuri. The Georgian element of the store is strengthened by the handmade collection from the Samoseli Pirveli Atelier, which produces Georgian traditional clothing, and a collection of antique carpets. David Koma, Tata Naka and other big names joined in the Fall-Winter 2019/20 season.

Fabrika, 8 E. Ninoshvili St., Tbilisi

1 V. Petriashvili St., Tbilisi

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Listing: Where to Buy Wine Brand Wine 48/50 Mtskheta Str. (+995) 577 75 55 55

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

Wine Bar O’dila Upper Omalo, Tusheti (+995) 557 00 59 00

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 (+995) 32 2 55 58 88 www.vinotel.ge Wine bar O’dila Tusheti offers guests various Georgian wines, among them Rkatsiteli, Mtsvane, Saperavi and Kindzmarauli. The traditional technology of making wine is the essence and the zest of it. The Summer Library adds a certain coziness and feeling of calm to the place.

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.

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

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Chelti Winery 62/18 Vazha Pshavela Str. Wine plant ‘Chelti’: Shilda, Kakheti region (+995) 577 44 44 55

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 (+995) 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 (+995) 598 11 12 88

Alaverdi Monastery Village Alaverdi, Akhmeta (+995) 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 (+995) 577 06 89 40

Wine Cellar Kakhuri 1 Tbilisi Highway, Telavi (+995) 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.

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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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PUBLIC 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

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BOTANIC GARDEN

dubai

World Tolerance Summit 2019

World Tolerance Summit Coincides with International Day of Tolerance Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the International Institute for Tolerance in Dubai, an initiative of Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation, is organising the second edition of the World Tolerance Summit (WTS) under the slogan ‘Tolerance in Multicultural: Achieving Social, Economic and Humanitarian Benefits to a Tolerant World’ at Madinat Jumeirah Convention Centre, Dubai, on 13-14 November 2019.

This year’s summit is expected to attract more than 2,000 dignitaries, as it coincides with International Day of Tolerance, and is in line with the President, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, declaring 2019 as Year of Tolerance.

The summit seeks to be an open platform for dialogue aimed at promoting human values, spreading the principles of tolerance, peaceful coexistence, and accepting the other without discrimination, and sending a message of love and peace to all parts of the world. State heads, diplomats from across the world, associations, international organisations and university students will attend the 2-day conference.

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dubai

The summit programme includes a range of dialogue sessions and workshops, which is an important tool in exchanging experiences and building positive partnerships among countries.

Various UAE government departments will exhibit their initiative to promote tolerance at offices and create better work environment on the sidelines of the event. Another feature, Tolerance Councils, will present interactive dialogues that discuss issues that concern the role of women, family and youth in establishing values of tolerance in society.

The Library of Tolerance offers a wide range of books on tolerance from around the world, while the Art and Photography Exhibition presents forms of tolerance and images in society through works of art. The summit also offers a unique feature where residents will be interviewed periodically to hear their views on tolerance and coexistence in live broadcast on the official YouTube channel of the summit.

The first session of the summit saw the participation of 1,866 participants from 105 countries around the world, including speakers, experts and specialists in the field of tolerance.

dubai

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International Medical Travel Show Dubai 2020 2nd of February, 2020, Dubai World Trade Center, UAE

With a millenary history, medical tourism represents a market segment in fast development at global level, offering a variety of aspects for the economic development of scientific research countries. The medical tourism market is valuable, driven by unsustainable healthcare costs in developed economies and the advent of technologies. Market Research Future (MRFR) has projected that the global medical tourism market will grow swiftly to touch the mark of $226,762.7 million by the end of the forecast period (2017-2023).

comprehensive menu of a Demonstration Zone, for efficient B2B communication between the healthcare providers and buyers, a Congress with leading experts and discussion of the hottest topics for market development nowadays.

Kenz Events Dubai is launching an advanced Medical and Healthcare Travel networking platform that brings together healthcare professionals from all over the world. The International Medical Travel Show Dubai 2020 is offering access to a

IMTS.Dubai 2020 will be useful for:

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Exclusively for the International Medical Travel Show Dubai 2020, the International Medical Tourism School will offer a Medical Tourism Training Short Course with the worlds’ best-known healthcare management adviser and medical travel strategy consultant, Maria Todd.

• Medical Travel Clusters and Associations promoting their destinations globally; • Government and Private Hospitals and Healthcare Groups working with interna-

dubai

tional patients and want to increase the patient flow; • Medical Tourism Facilitators and Agents actively developing their business and searching for new partners from different countries; • Healthcare professionals of different specialties who are interested in international cooperation; • Insurance companies that support international medical tourism programs.

The B2B VIP Hosted Buyers Program is undoubtedly one of the main features during the IMTS Dubai, giving an opportunity to meet medical tourism facilitators from 35+ counties of the GCC, Asia, Africa, China and Russian speaking markets.

One day of intensive work will save participants’ budgets and time by establishing strong contacts with potential partners from the market they are targeting. The strong advertisement and informational marketing campaign of the event gives additional value to the event itself, as the information about participants will be delivered to more than 50 countries globally.

The medical tourism training short course – is a professional skills improvement program for medical travel sector specialists. Attending this course will help you to improve your business best practices for medical tourism business based on the adaptation and implementation of global standards for the Russian-speaking market.

On the second day, the 3rd of February, a Familiarization Tour will be organized by IMTS Dubai for B2B VIP Hosted Buyers Program Delegates with a target to discover the UAE Healthcare system and medical tourism potential.

Maria Todd the CEO of AskMariaToddTM is often called the world’s single most knowledgeable adviser on health travel and medical tourism business strategy and management.

Considering the complexity of the marketing and business tools that IMTS Dubai Organizers are applying in February 2020, we can say that it is one of the strongest platforms in the Middle East region today for inbound and outbound medical tourism development globally.

The Medical Tourism Training Short Course

About Course Instructor

Maria Todd is our workshop leader. She has presented two outstanding courses for us here in Ukraine in recent years, and this one will be just like the rest: Packed with information, tools, tips, and best practices to improve your business success in medical tourism.

She generously shares her professional experience and training having worked in the medical tourism industry for more than 30 years!

Maria holds advanced degrees in health administration (MHA) and PhD, with professional work experience as a former surgical nurse and hospital executive.

She brings reality and practical advice to you from her training and the experience she has developed owning a medical tourism facilitator business, and training hospitals, clinics, thermal springs and seaside sanatoria around the world to prepare for accreditation, marketing, social media, patient logistics coordination and international patient department set up.

dubai

She shares critical comparisons, contrasts, and ideas from working on health tourism national strategies and situation analysis in more than 30 countries on four continents.

She shares specific information about what to say, how to say it, how to price your services, how to negotiate with insurance schemes, and how to plan unique strategies that differentiate your medical tourism brand.

Some of her clients have included: major pharmaceutical, international medical device manufacturers, Stem Cell and Infertility Clinics, Cleveland Clinic, Fortress Investment Group, University of Colorado, University of Denver, Emory University, Michigan State University, Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine, University of Texas, WHO, GIZ, IMF, ERDB, and foreign government agencies throughout the world.

Maria’s Unique Medical Tourism Experience without Comparison Maria is the author of four technical books on medical tourism, and another ten books on medical business topics including, physician integration, insurance contracting, physician employment contracting, and concierge medical practice design. In 2010, she was awarded a trademark registration for a new term of art used to describe the world’s largest globally integrated health delivery system® designed especially to work as a medical tourism provider network and third party administrator (TPA).

For more information, please contact: info.imts@kenzevents.ae imtshow.com

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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

(+995) 32 2921 921, 292 29 22

one million GEL.

www.basisbank.ge

(+995) 32 226 50 00

As of December 2018, the Bank’s total

VTB BANK GEORGIA

www.pashabank.ge

assets exceeded GEL 327 million.

14 G. Tchanturia Str.

PASHA Bank Saarbrucken Square, Tbilisi

(+995) 250 55 05

PROCREDIT BANK

www.vtb.com.ge

21 Al. Kazbegi Ave. (+995) 32 220 22 22 www.procreditbank.ge

TBC BANK 7 Marjanishvili Str. (+995) 227 27 27

HALYK BANK

www.tbcbank.com.ge

74 Kostava Str. (+995) 32 224 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.

(+995) 32 244 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

(+995) 32 224 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-

(+995) 32 255 55 00

sized enterprises. In 2019 the Bank

www.libertybank.ge

138

FINCA BANK GEORGIA

TERABANK

3 Queen Ketevan Ave. (+995) 32 255 00 00 www.terabank.ge

FUEL COMPANIES GULF 34 Chavchavadze Ave. (+995) 32 249 64 4 4 www.gulf.ge

SOCAR GEORGIA PETROLIUM

GPC

24 300 Aragveli Str.

(+995) 32 294 07 40

(+995) 32 243 92 75, 243 97 77

www.gpc.ge

www.sgp.ge

6 Sanapiro Str.

PHARMACIES

COMMUNICATIONS COMPANIES

EVEX MEDICAL CORPORATION

MAGTICOM

40 Vazha-Pshavela Ave. (+995) 32 255 05 05

7 A. Politkova Str. (+995) 32 217 00 00

www.evex.ge

WISSOL Opposite side of Tbilisi

PSP GROUP

BEELINE 8 Gorgasali Str. (+995) 32 220 06 06

International Airport

www.beeline.ge

(+995) 32 218 46 28 www.wissol.ge 148/3 D. Agmashenebeli Ave. TEL (+995) 32 240 20 20, 218 51 11 www.psp.ge

AVERSI ROMPETROL GEORGIA

GEOCELL

148 Agmashenebeli Ave.

3 Gotua Str.

(+995) 32 298 78 60

(+995) 32 277 01 77

3 Vl. Vekua Str.

www.aversi.ge

www.geocell.ge

(+995) 32 291 07 27 www.rompetrol.ge

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CHAMBERS IN TBILISI ICC 3/29 P. Kakabadze Str. (+995) 32 298 81 76 www.icc.ge

GEORGIAN CHAMBER Global Benefit OF COMMERCE AND Georgia INDUSTRY 7a P. Kakabadzr Str. 29 N. Shataidze Str. (+995) 32 269 47 47 www.gcci.ge

(+995) 32 250 00 01

ALDAGI 3 Pushkin Str. (+995) 244 49 99 www.aldagi.ge

AMERICAN CHAMBER The British OF COMMERCE Georgian IN GEORGIA Chamber of 36a L. Asatiani Str. Commerce (+995) 32 222 69 07 www.amcham.ge

1 Tabidze 1 Building, 2 Leonidze Str., Regus office (+995) 599 465 364 contact@bgcc.org.uk www.bgcc.org.uk

ISRAEL-GEORGIA CHAMBER OF BUSINESS 4 Liberty (Freedom) Sq. (+995) 32 299 70 35, 299 70 36

THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY FRANCE-GEORGIA 61 Agmashenebli Ave. (+995) 32 222 69 40 www.ccifg.ge

140

ARDI 3 Vazha-Pshavela Ave. (+995) 32 210 10 10 www.ardi.ge

GPI HOLDING 67 Kostava Str. (+995) 32 250 51 11 www.gpih.ge

INSURANCE COMPANIES IC GROUP

24 Mosashvili Str. (+995) 32 220 88 88 www.icgroup.ge

IMEDI L 9 Anna Politkovskaia Str. (+995) 32 292 22 22 www.imedil.ge

GIDMEDI PLUS 3 R. Chkheidze Str.

Advanced Pediatric Care

The Right Pediatrician for your Child!

(+995) 32 220 25 15, 291 32 19

NEW HOSPITALS 12 Krtsanisi Str. (+995) 32 219 01 90

TODUA CLINIC

Comprehensive Healthcare for Infants, Children, and Adolescents

12. Krtsanisi Str. (+995) 32 234 81 19, 234 28 30

Routine Check-ups, Immunizations, ะกounseling and Healthcare Packages

AMC TBILISI 11 D. Arakishvili Str.

24/7 On-Call Pediatrician and Home Visits

(+995) 32 250 00 20

KUZANOV CLINIC 24/7 Hotline numbers:

5 Pekini Str.

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

(+995) 32 242 40 05, 555 40 20 20

*Includes Gudauri, Svaneti and other regions

GEORGIAN-GERMAN CLINIC MEDHOUSE 7 M. Abashidze Str. Kyiv Odessa Lviv Tbilisi Batumi Almaty Astana

www.amcenters.com

(+995) 570 10 22 66, 568 05 03 03

CARAPS MEDLINE 48 Ljubljana Str.

CLINICS IN TBILISI

DAVID TATISHVILI MEDICAL CENTER

MEDICAL CENTRE EXTRA

7 Abuladze Str.

MEDIHELP

(+995) 32 291 31 19, 291 32 42

39 Chavchavadze Ave.

68 Chubinashvili Str.

(+995) 32 251 60 60

(+995) 32 243 43 10, 596 11 43 43

(+995) 32 222 21 55

GEOSWISS MEDICAL CENTER

CHACHAVA CLINIC

MEDINVEST

5 Pekini Str.

38 Kostava Str.

44/5 Paliashvili Str.

(+995) 32 236 33 64, 225 08 38,

(+995) 32 295 33 11, 298 73 39

(+995) 32 225 19 60

225 18 90

141

TOURISM INFORMATION CENTERS TBILISI TOURISM INFORMATION CENTER

GORI TOURISM INFORMATION CENTER

TELAVI TOURISM INFORMATION CENTER

Pushkin Sq.

23a Kutaisi Str.

9 Erekle II Str.

(+995) 595 215 86 97

(+995) 370 270776

(+995) 350 275317

Daily 9 am - 9 pm

Daily 10 am - 6 pm (winter),

Daily, 9 am - 6 pm

TBILISI TOURISM INFORMATION CENTER (TBILISI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT)

9 am - 6 pm (summer)

MTSKHETA TOURISM INFORMATION CENTER

BORJOMI TOURISM INFORMATION CENTER

3 Arsukidze Str.

Rustaveli Str.

Tbilisi International Airport

(+995) 32 2512128

(+995) 367 221397

(+995) 32 231 00 07

Daily 10 am - 6 pm (winter),

Daily 10 am - 6 pm (winter),

24/7

10 am - 6 pm (summer)

9 am - 6 pm (summer)

MESTIA TOURISM INFORMATION CENTER

KVARELI TOURISM INFORMATION CENTER

7 Seti Sq.

8 Rustaveli Str.

AKHALTSIKHE TOURISM INFORMATION CENTER

(+995) 551 08 08 94

(+995) 352 221340

1 Kharischirashvili Str.

Daily 10 am - 6 pm (winter),

Daily 10 am - 6 pm (winter),

(+995) 365 22 50 28

9 am - 6 pm (summer)

10 am - 6 pm (summer)

Daily, 9 am - 6 pm

KUTAISI TOURISM INFORMATION CENTER 8a Rustaveli Str.

SIGHNAGHI TOURISM INFORMATION CENTER

AMBROLAURI TOURISM INFORMATION CENTRE

(+995) 431 241103

10 Kostava Str.

17 Vazha-Pshavela Str.

Working days: Every day

(+995) 355 232414

(+995) 439 22 16 18

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

Daily 10 am - 6 pm (winter),

Daily, 10 am - 6 pm

9:00 – 18:00 (summer)

9 am - 6 pm (summer)

142

BOLNISI TOURISM INFORMATION CENTER

BATUMI TOURISM INFORMATION CENTER

115 Sulkhan-Saba Str.

Ski-lift surrounding area

(+995) 358 22 23 19

(+995) 422 29 44 10,

Daily 10 am - 6 pm (winter),

577 90 90 93

9 am - 6 pm (summer)

24/7

ESSENTIALS

TIME ZONE GMT + 4 CURRENCY Georgian Lari (GEL). One Lari is divided

KUTAISI TOURISM INFORMATION CENTER (KUTAISI AIRPORT)

SARPI TOURISM INFORMATION CENTER

Kopitnari settlement

(+995) 577 90 90 93

(+995) 595 08 82 19 Working days: Schedule determined by flights

Sarpi Custom House

KOBULETI 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).

(+995) 422 29 44 13

TBILISI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

24/7

(+995) 231 03 41

(+995) 422 29 44 14

KHULO TOURISM INFORMATION CENTER

KUTAISI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Working days: Schedule determined

29 M. Abashidze Str.

by flights

(+995) 577 90 90 15

BATUMI TOURISM INFORMATION CENTER (BATUMI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT) Batumi International Airport

BATUMI TOURISM INFORMATION CENTER

1 Agmashenebeli Str.

24/7

(+995) 0431 23 70 00

GEORGIAN RAILWAY (+995) 1331, 219 90 10

2 Ninoshvili Str., Batumi,

GEORGIAN NATIONAL TOURISM ADMINISTRATION

(Central entrance of Boulevard)

4 SANAPIRO STR.

(+995) 422 29 44 12,

(+995) 243 69 99

577 90 90 91 24/7

DIALING CODE: +995 32

143

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