THE GEORGIAN 2015

Tourism and Trade Guide to Georgia

WELCOME TO GEORGIA1

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CONTENTS

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A WARM GEORGIAN WELCOME 12 REASONS TO VISIT GEORGIA MESSAGE FROM THE PUBLISHER GEORGIA: THE INVESTMENT GATEWAY TO EURASIA ARRIVING IN GEORGIA TBILISI - HISTORIC CAPITAL OF GEORGIA EXPLORING GEORGIA WELCOME TO AJARA SKI SPLENDIDLY IN GEORGIA ON THE WAY TO SUSTAINABLE TOURISM WALKING IN GEORGIA THE NATURAL BEAUTY OF UPPER RACHA GEORGIA – A RICH RESERVOIR OF PLANT AND ANIMAL LIFE RURAL TOURISM IMERETI FOCUS ON GEORGIAN WINES AND THE TRADITIONAL METHOD OF WINEMAKING EVENTS AND FESTIVALS FAMOUS GEORGIANS

EVENTS AND FESTIVALS page 42

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54 58 59 62 74 76

ARTS IN GEORGIA GEORGIA HOMEGROWN DINING OUT WHERE TO STAY IN GEORGIA DATABASE MAP OF GEORGIA

A WARM GEORGIAN WELCOME nation in the region; the number of visitors to the country has been growing drastically for the past decade and in 2014 the number of international arrivals exceeded the 5 million mark.

On behalf of the Georgian National Tourism Administration, it is my pleasure to welcome you to our beautiful country! Your visit is an excellent opportunity to experience the unique culture of hospitality embraced by the Georgian people. For the Georgians being a host is not only a privilege, but a sacred tradition passed down for centuries. These traits are best exhibited during the traditional feast – a “supra”, which involves a toast master (tamada) and traditional vibrant polyphonic music.

Located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Georgia has seamlessly integrated different aspects of various cultures while at the same time retaining its own unparalleled identity. The country is renowned for its fascinating history, majestic Caucasus Mountains, the Black Sea coastline, curative climate, healing mineral waters, national parks and UNESCO Heritage Sites.

The legendary capital city of Tbilisi has a charming history dating back to the 4th century (A.D.) It is striking how the city encompasses ancient architecture, beautiful scenery and cultural centers with all the amenities of a modern lifestyle – leisure areas, restaurants, cafés, shopping facilities and nightlife. Over the centuries the famous sulfur baths located at the heart of the city have hosted various poets, writers, musicians and kings.

In its entirety, Georgia offers an amazingly diverse range of experiences. Treat yourself in the wine-producing region of Kakheti; explore the unique ancient towers and high mountainous areas of Svaneti; enjoy the exhilarating ski slopes of Gudauri and Bakuriani or relax on the Black Sea coast; all this in conjunction with scenic nature, ancient monuments and churches may become part of your trip all year round.

The aforementioned diversity and Georgia’s ranking among the safest countries in the world have turned the nation into a major travel desti-

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As the Georgian National Tourism Administration we do not simply strive to make the country an attractive destination; we aim to make each trip to the country a memorable way of creating new experiences.

I once again welcome you to our country and wish you a pleasant stay.

Sincerely, Giorgi Chogovadze Head of the Georgian National Tourism Administration Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia For further info please contact: Tel: +995 32 243 69 99 Info@gnta.ge www.gnta.ge

Visit Us at the Following Travel Exhibitions 22-25 January – EMITT, Istanbul, Turkey 28 January – 1 February – FITUR, Madrid, Spain 6-8 February – Balttur, Riga, Latvia 10-11 February – IMTM, Tel-Aviv, Israel 12-14 February – BIT, Milan, Italy 26 February – 1 March – Hungarexpo, Budapest, Hungary 4-8 March – ITB, Berlin, Germany 25-27 March – UITT, Kiev, Ukraine 2-4 April – AITF, Baku, Azerbaijan 14-16 April – COTTM, Beijing, China 22-24 April – KITF, Alma-Ata, Kazakhstan 4-7 May – ATM, Dubai, UAE 19-21 May – IMEX, Frankfurt, Germany 11-14 June – KOTFA, Seoul, Korea September – Top Resa, Paris, France September – JATA, Tokyo, Japan 2-5 November – WTM, London, UK 17-19 November – EITBM, Barcelona, Spain November – TT Warsaw, Poland

12 REASONS TO VISIT GEORGIA 1 3

You do not need a visa to enter Georgia if you a citizen of the USA, Canada, EU, most other European countries, the UAE, Israel, Japan, etc.

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There are 15 non-stop flights from several European cities, the Middle East and from major international travel hubs. In summer there is now a direct flight to charming Batumi on the Black Sea Coast via Istanbul.

If you are an adventure tourist, then visit us in winter for skiing even heli — skiing in Gudauri and Bakuriani or just come to enjoy spectacular views afforded by the Caucasus Mountains, Europe’s highest mountain range!

If you are looking for unspoiled nature than you can choose between various eco-trails, zip through the forest on a canopy tour or, pop into the extraordinary Prometheus cave.

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Do you love drinking good wine? Then come to Georgia and familiarize yourself with the oldest tradition of winemaking in the world stretching back over 8000 years. If you are more of a foodie, or a gourmand, then come and taste some famous Georgian dishes and take the recipe of your favorite one home!

Georgia at the crossroads of Europe and Asia offers a lot in both cultural and historical terms: World Heritage Sites, magnificent cathedrals and churches with early medieval frescos.

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If culture is more of a drawing card for you, then we invite you to explore spectacular sounds of our world-renowned polyphonic singing or traditional dancing – described

by UNESCO as a “masterpiece of the world’s intangible cultural heritage”.

Are you a romantic? Then you can get married in Georgia soon after you arrive! Be extraordinary and celebrate your special day in idyllic Sighnaghi, one of the most beautiful mountain towns in Kakheti.

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11 Combine all of this with a Mediterranean climate and legendary Georgian hospitality and you have a truly unique travel destination!

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Stroll through Tbilisi Old Town and enjoy the stunning architecture and European café culture. Tired after all your exploration? Then have a traditional sauna in the hot spring baths in the heart of the city.

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Invest in a country where nature has also richly invested. The time is ripe to invest in the tourism industry of Georgia, which is still underdeveloped but clearly bursting with opportunities. International investors who are willing to bring their experience will find themselves welcomed by a local industry eager to cooperate and committed to expanding Georgia’s latent potential.

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Already seen everything in Georgia?

Then it is a perfect time to branch out and combine your trip to Georgia with a visit to neighbouring countries in the Caucasus.

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Message from the Publisher

Lela Khartishvili As publisher of THE GEORGIAN, I am pleased to introduce the third edition – the definitive medium for promoting tourism and trade in Georgia for travellers and investors. The magazine is widely distributed through international travel fairs and the Georgian government’s local and overseas offices. Many of the opportunities are evolving and it is not possible to keep pace with all the exciting developments in an annual publication of this nature. But we aim to arouse interest in Georgia which, until now, has been a relatively unknown country.

In this 2015 edition, The Georgian National Tourism Authority has been an active participant, supplying updated information on tourism developments. Mountain Resorts Development Company introduces a variety of recreational activities in the development of the modern ski regions. The Ajara Tourism and Resorts Department tells about interesting initiatives in the beautiful Black Sea region of Georgia.

GIZ reveals the pristine natural attractions of our country. Major tourism and infrastructural developments and assistance to communities are outlined by The World Bank and Heifer/USAID. You will find information about year rond cultural activities in Georgia where — particularly Tbilisi and Batumi — will be hosting many events in 2015. These include unique traditional and classical concerts, theatre, opera and ballet performances, plus Jazz Festivals and international events such as The European Youth Olympic Festival, The Film Festival, etc.

I wish to thank all participants and contributors to THE GEORGIAN who have shown the greatest enthusiasm for the publication.

I particularly wish to thank Managing Editor, Edna Fortescue, who developed a successful publishing business throughout the Caribbean and who has now given her expertise and time to our project on a goodwill basis; Maia Kipshidze, the consultant of the project, who contributed to the concept of the new edition with her ideas; Manana Gigauri, contributing to advertisment

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design; Our copy editor, Gere Victor, who showed active interest in reading our articles and giving professional advice; Peter Dodge, a regular visitor to Georgia for many years, who has contributed interesting articles to the magazine and is an active member of The British Georgian Society in London.

We believe THE GEORGIAN 2015 will open new doors and windows of awareness, excitement and enthusiasm from around the world for the unique land of Georgia.

THE GEORGIAN is written, produced and published by TTG Georgia Ltd. Address: 14 Chiaureli St. 0179, Tbilisi, Georgia.

Tel: +995 599 992161 info@thegeorgianonline.com www.thegeorgianonline.com Copyright © TTG Georgia PUBLISHER AND MANAGING DIRECTOR

Lela Khartishvili MANAGING EDITOR

Edna Fortescue, FT International CONSULTANTS

Maia Kipshidze, Manana Gigauri DESIGN AND TYPESETTING

Gega Paksashvili PHOTOS

Georgian National Tourism Agency Department of Tourism and Resorts of Ajara A. R. Agency of Protected Areas of Georgia Georgian Mountain Resorts Development Fund COVER PHOTO

Irma Sharikadze “The Sky as Crown”

UDC(uak) 338.48+339](051.2) T-44

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G

EORGIA: THE INVESTMENT ATEWAY TO EURASIA

Georgia offers global investors a new investment destination and a variety of opportunities across a range of the country’s fastest growing sectors, including hydro power, tourism, manufacturing, regional services, logistics and agribusiness.

Investors in Georgia can enjoy the following benefits: • Market access through Free Trade Agreements; • Politically stable and corruption-free investment environment; • Competitive cost of labour and energy; • Developed transport infrastructure for trade, logistics and manufacturing ; • (multi-modal maritime, land and air access); • Solid sovereign balance sheet; • Stable and conservatively managed banking sector; • Very low crime-rate; • Easy access to finance and co-investment opportunities.

Located in the Caucusus region, on the historical Silk Road route, Georgia is neighbored by Russia, Azerbaijan, Turkey and Armenia and is positioned as a gateway between Europe and Asia. On the coast of the Black Sea, the country is perfectly situated for easy access from most major European, Central Asian and Middle Eastern region.

Being a major regional transport-transit hub, Georgia offers significant distribution access and opportunities through newly renovated and expanded transportation infrastructure, which includes a recently upgraded highways, rail and seaport network. The country’s three international airports – Tbilisi, Batumi and Kutaisi – provide direct access to prominent international connections.

Through the implementation of extensive reforms to offer investors a liberal tax system (only six taxes are left in Georgia, at low rates) and more business-friendly environment, Georgia has illustrated its commitment to opening its doors to the international investor community.

Furthermore, pro-business legislation and labour

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flexibility have contributed to overall trade liberalization and a significant growth in local production and exports. Georgia already boosts the required preconditions to become a regional financial centre, covering the Caucasus, Central Asia, Eastern Europe, and CIS countries.

Georgia’s liberal trade regimes provide investors with a favourable opportunity to not only access the country’s 4.4m residents, but the wider markets of ~ 900 million population, as a direct result of the absence of customs and import tariffs. To date, Georgia has signed FTAs with CIS countries that include Ukraine, Belarus, Moldova, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan, as well as its neighbors, Turkey, Azerbaijan and Armenia.

In June 2014, Georgia has signed the Association Agreement (AA) including Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area (DCFTA) with the European Union. The AA, together with the DCFTA, will provide for the close political association and economic integration of Georgia with the EU. This will boost access for Georgian goods and services to the EU market whilst also increasing the inflow of European direct investment to Georgia thanks to an open, stable and predictable policy-making environment.

Georgia offers highly diversified and balanced investment opportunities. The key investment sectors which include Hydropower Energy, Tourism & Real Estate, Manufacturing, Agriculture and Agribusiness, as well as Regional Logistics Corridor provide numerous profitable prospects for potential investors and are in correspondence with the current global investment trends.

As for the tourism, certainly it is one of the fastest growing sectors of the Georgian economy, which has potential for further expansion. The variety and excellence of Georgian food and the famous wine industry coupled with unique cultural and outdoor activities naturally encourage tourism.

The diversity of tourism activities is assured by the assortment of different touristic destinations in Georgia which includes sun-beach resorts, winter ski resorts, summer mountain resorts, spa resorts, etc. Number of visitors increased by 57% in 2012 reaching 4.4 million, by 22% in 2013 reaching 5.4 million and 5.5 million in 2014.

According to The World Economic Forum, a competitive tourism industry requires a supportive regulatory environment, appropriate transport and tourism infrastructure and skilled human resources. Georgia continues to introduce positive reforms in all these directions.

Different special packages are offered to investors in Tourism. For example, Free Tourist Zones have been established on the Black Sea Coast, where investors are offered free land with suitable infrastructure and considerable investment incentives. The recent major Investment opportunities include Gonio Sea Resort project development on the Black Sea coast (totaling ~315 hectares) and Tskaltubo Spa & Wellness resort redevelopment (famous as an elite resort in Soviet Times) in Western Georgia.

While tourism remains a major focus for development, there are many other areas of opportunity in Georgia.

Now is the right time to Invest in Georgia !

For further information, please contact: The Georgian National Investment Agency Tel. +995 32 2473696 info@investingeorgia.org enquiry@investingeorgia.org www.investingeorgia.org

The Iron Silk Road The Iron Silk Road , the shortest possible route linking the rest of the world to rapidly growing Asian markets, will soon be put into operation in the region.

The Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railroad, rightfully named the Iron Silk Road, is a project of global significance that will link China and Central Asian countries to Europe and vice versa.

A 254 km section of the railroad will pass through Georgia. In Europe, the Marabda-Kartsakhi will be the highest railroad above the sea. New railway bridges and a border railroad tunnel, part of which is on Turkish territory, are being constructed as part of the project. The tunnel’s total length is 4476 m, out of which 2070 m fall onto the Georgian territory. In Georgia in will start in the Marabda, 40 km from Tbilisi and would reach the last populated point — the village of Kartsakhi. Please check the website for more details. www.mkrailway.ge

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Most arrivals in Georgia are through the Tbilisi International Airport.

Non-stop flights are operated by: Georgian Airways (Airzena), Turkish Airlines, Lufthansa, Air Baltic, Aegean Airways, Qatar Airways, Polish Airlines, Ukraine International, Belavia, Siberian Airlines, Air Astana, Fly Dubai, China Southern Airlines and Pegasus Airlines. Alitalia and Wizz Air also offer inexpensive direct flights from Europe.

Recent arrivals on the Georgian aviation scene are Aeroflot, Atlasjet and Fly Arabia.

Upon landing at Tbilisi International Airport you will notice that all arrival and departure information is available in both Georgian and English. Should you require specific flight information, please consult the Tbilisi International Airport’s website at: www.tbilisiairport.com.

Telephonic enquiries can be made at: International Arrivals: (+995) 32 231 03 41 or International Departures: (+995) 32 231 04 21.

The journey from the International Airport to central Tbilisi takes about 20 minutes. Travel by taxi costs about 25 GEL. There is a bus service to Freedom Square and Rustavelli Avenue (Bus No. 37) departing every 20-30 minutes from 7.00 am to 10.00 pm. A new train station close to the airport is in operation to transport passengers to the central metro station, but the service is very limited at present.

There are new local air terminals at Batumi on the Black Sea coast and at Kutaisi (Imereti region) – 230 km from Tbilisi. The airport at Kutaisi is very basic, just a simple immigration and customs post. For telephonic enquiries please contact the Kutaisi Air Terminal: Tel:(+995) 431 23 90 03. Flying directly to Kutaisi from international destinations is now possible: Wizz Air operates low-cost flights from Poland and Ukraine and there are flights from Moscow and Minsk.

There is an official Georgian bus transfer available from Kutaisi Air Terminal to Tbilisi and Batumi – tickets can be

purchased next to the information point. The bus ride to Tbilisi costs 20 GEL (about 10 EUR) and the journey takes about 4 hours. Buses arrive at Pushkin Park – next to Freedom Square ¬– in Tbilisi. All buses run according to the flight schedule.

GETTING TO TBILISI BY ROAD AND RAIL Travellers who drive into Georgia from Turkey cross the border at Kemalpasra (Turkey) into Sarpi (West Georgia/Black Sea coast – a distance of 400 km to Tbilisi and 15 km to Batumi) or at Posof (Turkey) into Vale (Southwest Georgia – a distance of 300 km to Tbilisi).

Entrance by road is also available via Azerbaijan, Armenia and Russia. Travellers from Azerbaijan cross the border at Lagodekhi (Eastern Georgia – a distance of 170 km to Tbilisi). An alternative route is through the Red Bridge (Southeast Georgia – a distance of 70 km to Tbilisi). From Armenia visitors cross through Sadakhlo/ Bagratashen (Southeast Georgia – a distance of 170 km to Tbilisi) and Bavra (Southern Georgia – a distance of 330 km to Tbilisi). The Russian/ Georgian border is open for travellers at Upper Larsi (Northeast Georgia – a distance of 153 km to Tbilisi).

Travelling on the highly improved roads is a great way to see the Georgian countryside before arriving in Tbilisi. Minibuses go to/from Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan and Turkey several times a day.

There are 3 major bus stations in Tbilisi with buses coming and going to and from all parts of Georgia. Travelling by bus is an inexpensive way to see the country but, due to the language barrier, it is often difficult for foreigners to negotiate.

Rail links operate between Georgia and Armenia and Azerbaijan respectively, carrying holidaymakers to the Black Sea coast in summer.

The “Silk Road” overnight train brings tourists to Baku – on the Caspian Sea – along the ancient Silk Road. Instead of a camel-caravan, tourists are transported in a small train with 3 passenger cars and a restaurant. Travelling by train is not fast, but sharing a compartment is a nice way to meet new people. Train services connect Tbilisi with numerous domestic cities.

Tbilisi Central Train Station is located on Vagzlis Moedani (Station Square).

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Ticket offices are located on the top floor, above the platforms. A timetable is available online along with the purchasing of tickets (see www. railway.ge). Getting to the city centre from the Central Station is better by metro. The entrance to the metro is only a minute’s walk away, to the right of the Central Station’s main exit.

DRIVING A personal vehicle may seem to be the most convenient form of transport available, but firsttime visitors to the country should investigate the driving rules of Georgia before deciding to get behind the wheel of a car and should be

GETTING TO GEORGIA VIA THE BLACK SEA Batumi and Poti are major passenger ship ports on the Black Sea coast (see www.batumiport.com).

GETTING AROUND TBILISI Taxis are one of the best ways of getting around the city, as they can be found almost anywhere.

Fares are quite affordable and should never cost more than a few US$ paid in local currency.

Generally taxis will be waiting outside major public areas such as airports, train stations, bus stations and large hotels. bearing in mind the drivers often only speak Georgian. Some of the larger taxi companies are: GIG Taxi (+995) 32 278 78 78; Nostalgia Ltd. (+995) 2 200 200; Pelican (+995) 32 293 99 39; and Taxi.ge (+995) 32 274 74 74.

PUBLIC TRANSPORT IN TBILISI Tbilisi is a small city so it is generally easy to get around. The underground rail system connects most areas of the city. The Tbilisi Metro is open from 6am to 12pm. A single journey costs 0.50 GEL and you can only pay with travel cards.

Metromani travel cards can be bought and recharged at each station for 2 GEL. The city is also serviced by a network of yellow buses and minibuses that drive set routes around Tbilisi. There are information boards at most bus stops with times in Georgian and English. Tickets can be bought on the bus via a ticket machine, or by plastic pre-loaded Metromani travel cards. A single bus fare costs 0.50 GEL. The minibuses in Tbilisi stop on request except when travelling through Freedom Square or along Rustaveli and Chavchavadze Avenues, in which case they only stop at bus stops. A single minibus fare costs 0.80 GEL. There is a cable car from the Rike Park to Narikala Fortress with the most spectacular views of the city. Ticket costs 1 GEL and can be bought by plastic pre-loaded Metromani travel cards. The funicular railway that runs up to Mtatsminda Mountain was opened in 1905 and was recently reconstructed; it costs 2 GEL. Metromani cards are not accepted.

aware of the fast – and sometimes reckless – driving in Tbilisi. Rental car agencies can be found immediately upon exiting the airport customs area or in the downtown offices of Avis, Hertz, Europcar, and Auto Rent Service. The minimum age requirement is 25 for car rentals. Cars can be rented with or without a driver.

Try to learn few local words of Georgian and remember that the Georgian word for “hello” is “gamarjoba”, “goodbye” is “nakhvamdis”, “thank you” is “gmadlobt”, excuse me is “ukacravad” and Cheers is “gaumarjos”.

VISA REQUIREMENTS Citizens of the USA, Canada, the EU, most other European countries, the UAE, Israel, Japan, etc. do not need a visa to enter Georgia. No visa is required for cruise ship passengers who stay in a Georgian port for less than 72 hours. Please refer to the following web page to verify the visa requirements for your country of origin: www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Georgia.

Prospective travelers have a possibility to obtain a touristic or business visa without visiting Georgian Embassy or Consular office, following three simple steps: applying, making online payment and printing out ready e-Visa.

Please refer to the following web page to verify e-Visa requirements: www.evisa.gov.ge

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TBILISI

HISTORIC CAPITAL OF GEORGIA According to the legend Tbilisi was founded in the fifth century when King Vakhtang Gorgasali stumbled on the health-giving hot mineral springs that still operate in the centre of the city. The spectacular location of Tbilisi among the green rolling hills along the River Mtkvari, and its strategic position between East and West, meant that other countries have always coveted this city and fought over its possession. In fact it seems that everybody coveted beautiful, fertile Georgia!

ideal for walking exploration and it is completely safe to wander about by day or night.

The Rustaveli Avenue, named after Georgia’s most famous medieval poet Shota Rustaveli, is the main avenue of Tbilisi and has been very well restored with main museums close to each other. Here you can find the State, Ethnography and Art Museums all containing unique artifacts and treasures – including the brilliant medieval enamelwork and gold collections. The recommended way to cross this busy main road is through underpasses, and there are attractive shops along the main underpass alongside Freedom Square where a glittering statue of St. George sits on top of his column.

The famous Tbilisi Opera House with its distinctive striped stonework has recently been completely renovated and is scheduled to reopen in October.

Little Georgia has produced a disproportionate amount of internationally famous opera singers, musicians and dancers; many of whom perform around the world but return to their homeland for special performances.

Tbilisi has a world-class ballet company – now led by the world famous prima ballerina of the Bolshoi Nina Ananiashvili – and is also known for its unique dance groups and polyphonic singing ensembles.

Tbilisi is the focal point of Georgian life and culture. This ancient and fascinating historic city also contains all the amenities of modern life.

While some rather astonishing modern structures had been erected in recent years, there is now a concerted effort to conserve and renovate beautiful old buildings and the numerous unique churches that have long given Tbilisi the character which visitors find so attractive.

Some churches are ancient, although there is a huge new modern cathedral – Sameba (Trinity in Georgian) – that overshadows the new Presidential Palace. As the city stretches on both sides of the river, it has recently been connected with a new bridge which looks rather as if it has been transplanted from Disneyworld. Tbilisians either love it or hate it – but there it is!

The basic domestic architecture is a fascinating mixture of Europe and St. Petersburg in the l9th century with attractive Oriental balconies built onto the exterior and spacious internal courtyards known as “Italian” courtyards. An overlay is the Art Deco façades that grace many old buildings, and exquisite wrought ironwork. Old Tbilisi is

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The elegant Rustaveli Theatre has been spectacularly restored to the level of any major European opera house by a private donor, and the two theatres within often stage performances with English subtitles. Look out for concerts at the centrally located Conservatoire and the Philharmonic Hall. Tickets are priced very reasonably and are generally easy to obtain.

The bathhouses have always been favourite with foreigners and were visited by such notable writers as Dumas (father), Pushkin and Lermontov. Nowadays visitors can enjoy the hot

sulphur waters, cooling showers and massages inexpensively in exotic oriental surroundings.

Sadly what was the best outdoor food and produce market in Europe is no more, but small local markets are emerging and corner shops sell the best produce in season. There are a number of modern supermarkets nowadays and keep an eye out for the antique stalls by the old Dry Bridge.

Nightlife is vibrant in Tbilisi and is most active on Perovskaya, Sharden and Erekle II streets – close to the river – where a number of local and international restaurants, clubs and bars are located. There is a lovely bar on top of the Radisson which gives a spectacular view of the city.

A new attraction – the “Tower” on Rike (the left side of the river) – was recently opened, where modern cable cars transport guests over

the city to the Narikala Fortress and the worldfamous, uniquely located Botanical Gardens first established centuries ago.

The Funicular lower station – located close to Rustaveli in Chonkadze Street – has had its original façade restored; its completely modern carriages transport passengers quickly and safely to the top of the steep hillside. The imposing station above has an excellent restaurant and café with a great view of the city. The top station also opens into Mtatsminda Park, a popular venue with Tbilisians and visitors. Don’t miss the nearby ancient Mtatsminda Church, which is the last resting place of distinguished Georgians commemorated with imposing sculptured monuments.

Enjoy this beautiful and unusual city and its friendly people.

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The magnificent National Botanical Garden is located in an historic area. It was formally established by the Viceroy of the Caucasus, Count Vorontsov, in l845.

The garden is a part of the beautiful hills surrounding the city, with a narrow river gorge running through the display gardens. This historic features include the towering Narakhala fortification, picturesque towers and “Queen Tamar’s bridge” which dates back to the l8th century. Additionally, there is the waterfall bridge which was built in l9l4. There is also fascinating French conservatory which was constructed in l872.

The rich plant collections, specializing in unique Caucasian flora, the abundant amount of trees and shrubs make this area a botanist’s delight.

The garden is ideal for relaxation with excellent pathways, a gently undulating landscape, plants and trees from all over the world, and scenic views in the shadow of the surrounding hills.

The garden opens year round at 9.00 am. The closing hours vary throughout the year. There is a small admission fee.

The tropical plant greenhouse is open on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday afternoons, however only ten people can be admitted at a time.

Address: 1 Botanikuri Street, 0114 Tbilisi.

Tel: +995 32 2724 306

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Exploring Georgia Discover Georgia, this enchanting little country at the cross-roads of Europe and Asia!

Visit various regions which are so close to each other but are so very different in many aspects.

Enjoy pristine nature, cultural sites, and wine-producing areas.

Visit farms maintaining many centuries old traditions, meet local people, taste organic home-made meals and experience the essence of hospitable Georgian life!

you can climb up the hill to discover more than one hundred caverns of another complex “Udabno” (a “desert”). It is worth the climb to see exceptional ancient paintings and to enjoy a panoramic view.

Svaneti — the highest inhabited area in the

Caucasus. Ushguli, the highest populated village in Europe.

This region is unique for its majestic high mountains, impressive nature and architecture.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site it is dotted with medieval villages featuring dozens of traditional stone-towers, mostly built from the 9th to 12th centuries. Ushguli is the highest year-round inhabited village in Europe (2000-2200 m above the sea level).

Alaverdi Cathedral

Impressive and well-known 11th century Cathedral is located 25 km from Akhmeta in Kakheti region. This was one of the powerful cultural and educational centres of Eastern Georgia. Sophisticated architecture, unique frescos and a church surrounded by vineyards make Alaverdi an attractive destination for all visitors. Here the monks have a modern winery where local wines can be sampled.

Sighnaghi

David Gareji Monastery Complex This unique complex of buildings was founded in the 6th c. by David Garejeli, one of the 13 Assyrian Fathers. Formerly the monastery consisted of natural caves known today as “Lavra”. The area developed over the years to become a grandiose group of twelve monasteries and several churches which formed a very important centre of religious and cultural life for many centuries. Sadly some of the monasteries no longer exist but the Gareji frescos are well known. The original “Lavra” and two other monasteries known as Dodo’s Rka (“the horn of Dodo”) and Natlismtsemeli (“the Baptist”) are still functioning today. From the “Lavra” complex

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This former royal town in Kakheti Region is beautifully located on a hilltop, surrounded by the town wall with seven gates and 23 towers to protect its citizens against invaders in ancient times. It still carries the charm and spirit of the 18th century, when the modern town was founded. The places of interest in Signaghi include several medieval churches, museums and a l9th century wedding palace still in use. The world-famous Georgian artist, Niko Pirosmani, was a native of this town, and there is a beautiful museum with an excellent collection of his paintings.

Tsinandali

Lovely residence of Prince Alexandre Chavchavadze is located in Kakheti 10 km from Telavi. This was the scene of a famous and tragic family abduction in the mid-19th century by the tribe of Shamyl, Imam of Dagestan, who was fiercely resisting the Russian advance into the Caucasus. This amazing episode and its repercussions are described in great detail in the well-known book, “The Sabres of Paradise” by Lesley Blanche, a new edition of which is available at Prospero’s Bookshop in Tbilisi. At the time the residence was called “Tsinonadali”.

The residence has been restored, but still conveys some of the atmosphere of those times with many family mementos. The magnificent gardens with towering trees are still flourishing.

Nowadays there is a café, shop and possibility of tasting of excellent local wines.

Gelati Academy and Monastery Complex

The monastery, located in Imereti, 11 km from Kutaisi Town was built in the 12th c. and was one of the powerful cultural and educational centres of Western Georgia. It is the UNESCO Heritage Site, and contains a number of very well preserved murals and manuscripts. Gelati is an important burial place of the Georgian kings and the royal family members. It retains the atmosphere of its great past and demonstrates the beauty and unique monumental quality of the architecture of those times.

Cyclopean Fortress and the Church of Saro

This is a unique monument of ancient Georgian culture from the 2nd millennium B.C in Aspindza, Samtskhe-Javakheti region. This mysterious structure is built by three metre stone blocks with dry masonry. Nobody can understand how this was done or who were the people who built such an amazing monument. Under the fortress there are well-preserved caves and around the structure there are grain bins and underground shelters.

Virgin known for its 17 murals which depict various significant events from Georgia’s history.

Portraits of the royal family-Queen Tamar, King Giorgi III, and the founder of the church, adorn the northern wall.

Tusheti

This remote, pristine and magnificent area is located on the northern slopes of the high Caucasus mountains. Travel season usually starts at the end of May and continues to the end of October. Each village in Tusheti is a historical monument with its 19th century architecture, religious buildings, crosses, icons etc.

Tusheti is known for its unusual cheese made from sheep’s milk, fine local embroidery, felt work and colourful rugs. The village Dartlo, famous for its protected landscape and heritage is located here.

We hope that these brief descriptions will encourage our visitors to see many of these special areas of Georgia and have a better understanding of our long history and great traditions.

Vardzia Cave Monastery

(Samtskhe-Javakheti region) dates from the l2th century. It is a unique example of rock cut architecture. It stretches across the mountain side for half a kilometer and consists of caves connected by a complex system of tunnels. In the centre of the complex, there is the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed

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Welcome to Ajara

Demur Diasamidze-the highest-ranking official in tourism- together with his young and energetic group, has implemented many interesting initiatives and projects in Ajara region. Under his leadership the Tourism Department has already put in place both midterm and long-term (2015 – 2018) development strategies. To ensure the involvement of both public and private sectors in tourism development, Tourism Advisers Regional Council has been set up as well. These measures unite all sectors involved in the tourism industry in the region.

VARIETY OF TOURISM TRENDS Demur Diasamidze Chairman, Department of Tourism and Resorts of Ajara A.R.

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The tourism potential of the region is exponential: the richness of flora and fauna in Ajara is the best lure with which to attract ecotourism lovers. Special attention is also being paid to rural tourism; wine tourism, ecotourism, bird watching tours and numerous activities have already been implemented in this direction. Ecotourism routes have been worked out and marked, while in rural areas existing hotels, guesthouses and agricultural bases have been created along with programmes for their staff and personnel to be trained and retrained. An International Bird Festival has been founded and will be organized on an annual basis. In terms of promotion, multilingual topical brochures on various trends of ecotourism have been printed for distribution at international tourism fairs and exhibitions.

Welcome to Batumi

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Existing local hotel infrastructure in the region along with the presence of world-brand hotel chains can facilitate the development of MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Events) Tourism. In addition to its growth as a tourist hot spot, Batumi has retained its status among casino fans as a prime destination for several years running and has contributed to the further development of gambling tourism. Cruise ship tourism also poses great potential and Batumi holds the prospect of becoming a prime destination on the Black Sea coast. This can already be evidenced in the number of cruise liners berthed at Batumi port over the last couple of years.

According to Demur Diasamidze the main mission of the Department is to create an extended tourism season in the region, develop new tourism-related products and promote the region at both internal and international tourism fairs.

A big step forward has been taken in the creation of the regional tourism development strategy specifically tailored for this region. Batumi, with its wealth of contemporary tourist attractions, is proving to be rather competitive – not only within Georgia but internationally as well.

“It is worth noting that tourism potential of the region and the city is steadily growing: the number of 4 and 5 star hotels, guesthouses and apartment hotels is constantly going up.

Very soon the Hilton hotel will be officially opened while the new Marina Coliseum, Babillon Tower, Semiramida and others are being constructed or nearing completion. In his reply to the question why one should visit Ajara he gives several reasons: • A long sea season • 4 protected areas • Distinctive landscapes of mountainous Ajara • Ajarian cuisine • Ajarian wine - Chkhaveri • Unforgettable dolphin show • One of the richest botanical gardens in the world • Extensive walkways of Batumi Seaside Boulevard • Impressive mixture of old and new architecture Department of Tourism and Resorts of Ajara A.R Parnavaz Mepe street 84/86 Batumi, 6000, Ajara Info@gobatumi.com; www.gobatumi.com Tel: +995422 274719

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BATUMI Batumi, one of the most beautiful cities along the Black Sea, is located in Ajara. According to historical sources Batumi was founded before the Common Era. The initial settlement, Batus, is mentioned in texts that dates back to the 4th century BC. Due to its interesting historical past Batumi was turned into a port and tourist city in the Soviet and Post-Soviet period. Part of Batumi’s intrigue is its rich architectural variety.

When Batumi became a porto franco (free port), European architects flocked to the city and designed numerous unique architectural buildings.

Batumi’s juxtaposition of ancient and modern architecture, its historical port, serene botanical garden, Seaside Boulevard, European squares and streets – not to mention its world-class hotels, restaurants, cafés and bars – all contribute to the diversity that makes up the face of modern Georgia.

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Georgians are lucky to have some of the most impressive and highest mountains in Europe, with several peaks higher than Mont Blanc. Inevitably it comes as no surprise that Georgia offers numerous opportunities for ski lovers. Visitors have the freedom to plan their days at their own pace with a choice from hiking, skiing, heliskiing, fitness and gastronomic activities. Georgian ski resorts are also perfect for discovering new passions and sharing fabulous moments with friends or family members.Even if you are the most jaded traveler, the vast open spaces of the Caucasus Mountains will truly captivate you!

A mountain ski resort situated on a south-facing plateau of the Greater Caucasus Mountain Range – surrounded by some of Europe’s most dramatic peaks – Gudauri is 2200 m above sea level with a skiable area that enjoys maximum exposure to the sun. The resort lies 120 km (75 miles) to the north of the capital Tbilisi and is only an hour and a half drive from the Tbilisi International Airport or, even better, a shortflight by helicopter.

Gudauri,which is jokingly called “Good Aura” in English (say it slowly: “Good-Auri”), is ideal for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. The total length of ski pistes measures 57 km; access is by 6 lifts and 18% of the slopes are covered with artificial snow.

Of special note is the fact that Gudauriski resort has high altitude powder, offering virtually

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unrestricted access to an altitude of 4200 meters.

Alternatively, the valleys and untouched foothills around Gudauri offer exceptional cross-country skiing. Ski season usually lasts for four months, starting from mid December until the end of April. Failing favourable weather, Gudauri is fully equipped with a snow manufacturing system that makes the announcement of the popular date for the opening of the season in December much easier. This is one of the main reasons why Gudauri ski resort is one of the best!

In terms of safety, visitors can rest assured that rescue crews regularly patrol the slopes.

All modern conveniences are also catered for: free Wi-Fi and the mobile application for IOS and Android phones are available; electronic information boards placed at the entrance of each ski lift also provide all necessary information on the altitude, weather and slope conditions.

The visitor will also find an ample choice in hotels, apartment hotels, lounges, bars, nightclubs, etc.

The Mountain Resorts Development Company was established in May 2014 and is now in charge of two of the largest ski resorts in Georgia: Gudauri and Didveli (Bakuriani). With their focus on constantly developing infrastructure, the Company has turned these ski areas of the country into modern resorts that cater not only for the whole family but also offer visitors a wide variety of recreational activities in the mountains.

For several years automated checkpoints have

been in operation in Gudauri; installed by the world-renowned Austrian company “SKIDATA” that has played a major role in the development of ski regions in the past. In addition, the operators introduced the Georgian Multi Pass in December 2014 – a ski pass combining the two Georgian ski resorts of Gudauri and Didveli into one Ski Pool.

With the MultiPass skiers profit from hands-free access to both resorts for a day with a single paper card! Ski enthusiasts that intend to stay for longer can obtain a Multi Card – a credit card type that is personalized and can be topped up.

For more information please visit: www.gudauri.com www.didveli.com www.facebook.com/gudauriofficial www.facebook.com/DIDVELI or contact MRDC: info@gudauri.com

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ski-lovers as well as a superb venue for children to take their first steps in practising winter sports.

Ropeways, ski jumps, ski slopes, cross-country skiing, horse rides, horse-drawn sledges or snowmobiles – all can be found in Bakuriani.

A two and a half hour drive from Georgia’s capital will bring you to Bakuriani – the ski and health resort set at an altitude of 1700 m above sea level. Here the snow blanket remains for 4-5 months, but in summer the fragrance of coniferous trees and other climatic factors create ideal conditions for other ways of enjoying outdoor life such as rest and recreation.

Cozy guesthouses and modern hotels host holidaymakers in both summer and winter seasons. The resort is a perfect destination for

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Didveli Mountain – a modernised part of Bakuriani – features a recently established ski resort that not only offers new ski lifts but also 14 km of slopes for all levels from beginners to advanced skiers. The base station of the gondola lift is at an altitude of 1800m while the highest peak is 2700 m above sea level.

Skiers can enjoy riding the six pistes while their children are in safe hands having fun in an entertainment park for kids.

ON THE WAY TO SUSTAINABLE TOURISM

Diversity of nature, unique traditions and untouched environment play a significant role in Sustainable Tourism development in Georgia and future protection of the Caucasus ecoregion.

The country offers a range of ecotourism services for pristine nature lovers and centuries old, well preserved traditions in mountain villages, especially in Tusheti, Svaneti, Upper Ajara and Khevsureti regions offer a unique experience for tourists.

Protected area in Georgia makes 8.62% of the whole territory and is classified according to IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) different categories.

Established in 2013, Ecological Tourism Development Centre (ETDC) aims at improvement of the community development in Georgia and environmental protection through the enhancement of ecological awareness and development of economic activities in line with environmental protection principles.

ETDC is the member of TIES-the world’s oldest

and largest international ecotourism associations as well as of the Ecotourism International Society and Geographic Society of Georgia. As the Ecotourism International Society member, the ETDC accepted the internationally created Criteria and Guidelines. However, it considers that each region with ecotourism potential should develop its own principles, guidelines and criteria for certification based on international experience and materials. The main goal is to stimulate this process through tight cooperation with local communities for establishment of Georgian ecotourism strategy and certification system.

ETDC – your reliable partner in Tbilisi!

Address: 11 Lado Gudiashvili St. Tbilisi 1013, Georgia info@ecotourism.ge www.ecotourism.ge

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WALKING IN GEORGIA “Walking in the Caucasus, Georgia” - the new 2nd edition (2013).

Walking in Georgia is one of the great pleasures that Europe and now the wider world is just starting to discover. While the process has been slow, it is inevitable. The Greater Caucasus serve as the centre-piece of this small very beautiful, country, a mountain range whose presence is arguably grander than the Alps. Certainly the peaks are higher – six exceed 5000 metres – and the chain is longer – its 1200kms stretching between the Black and Caspian Seas. But more significantly, the high valleys are spotted with antique stone towers, hilltop churches and numerous long-inhabited villages. Those who live in these fabulously remote places are the progeny of two thousand years of conquest and survival – and famed for their hospitality.

Georgia, the country set in their geographical heart, contains more native flora and fauna, plus endemic birds than any other European nation (if Russia, the biggest country in the world is excluded). This is explained by Georgia’s extraordinary landscape diversity, which ranks in the world’s top twelve. A remarkable fact considering its size - a mere 67,900 square km, an area the size of Ireland. The country can boast a Black Sea coast, subtropical wetlands, semi-desert, volcanic plateaus (dormant), large areas of virgin forest, sub alpine and high alpine zones, topped by three 5000 metre peaks.

In Georgia one can see eleven kinds of eagles and four vultures, including the rare black vulture, Europe’s largest flying bird - which I often see in the Khada valley, a delightful hour and a quarter drive from Tbilisi. I wrote this book so others could experience the same unforgettable moments as myself in this extraordinary landscape. The secret is slowly getting out.

Peter Nasmyth - January 2015

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The Natural Beauty of Upper Racha

By Nikoloz Perkin Georgia still has them: virtually secret places far away from the urban hustle and bustle. Upper Racha, a region in the northwest of Georgia, has many such spots. Indeed, Upper Racha is a quiet, but special place. Located high in the mountains, it overlooks a beautiful landscape of forests, rivers, lakes and alpine meadows. It invites you to actively explore its natural beauty and to enjoy its people’s hospitality.

Why is Upper Racha worth experiencing?

Although most foreign tourists coming to Georgia seek recreation and nature-based activities, only few consider visiting Racha. By contrast, Upper Racha is a perfect destination for recreation in an unspoiled environment, culturally unique highlights, splendid food, and exciting outdoor activities.

Indeed, the spectacular mountains of the RachaLechkhumi region are rich in biodiversity and provide plenty to see and to do. The area is covered with lush green forests, rivers and beautiful lakes.

Trekking and mountaineering provide wonderful views. Keen climbers will find countless challenges

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What else should you see in Upper Racha?

The Oni district combines 64 villages and one small town. Oni town is situated at the river Rioni, some 830 metres above sea level. The ruins of Oni’s ancient fort date back to the middle ages. Its synagogue was built in 1895 and is the third largest in Georgia. Also, Oni’s Racha regional museum is worth a visit. No less than 14,000 unique artifacts belong to the museum’s collection, covering the fields of archeology, ethnography, numismatics, natural history, fine art, as well as historical documents and manuscripts. Their historical and

Images by courtesy of Mkhatvris Sakhli Guest House

The Racha region (in the Racha-Lechkhumi and Kvemo Svaneti Mkhare) is located in the northwest of Georgia. It is divided into Lower and Upper Racha and has a mere 25,000 inhabitants. The regional capital Oni is a 190 km drive from Tbilisi.

While guesthouses, family stays, small hotels and other accommodation exist, Racha is still far less touristic than other regions. In terms of its bed capacity it ranks ninth among eleven Georgian regions (source: Georgian National Tourism Administration).

on Mount Khvamli and Lechkhum. White-water rafting on river Rioni is a special treat, while horse riding will bring you deep into the forests and to secret spots. One of these places is Dolamisi Mountain. At an altitude of 2000 meters you will find the “Bottomless Lake”, owing its name to the fact that American scientists and divers were unable to locate its bottom.

cultural value constitutes an important part of the Georgian national cultural heritage.

Utsera and Shovi, the old spa resorts For a long time, the village of Utsera in Upper Racha has been famous for its healing mineral waters. In the past, the mineral springs were used for balneotherapy and for extensive treatment.

The village also boasts a fine collection of medieval churches as well as an 800-year-old “alley of trees”.

Utsera is surrounded by temperate forests of spruces, oaks, beech trees and chestnut trees. Here you can see plenty of deer, chamois, bears, wolves, and other animals. Trout, salmon, common barbel, and other fish live in the river Rioni and its side streams. The village of Utsera is a good starting point for hiking or mountaineering tours and for other outdoor adventures.

Fourteen kilometres from Utsera you will find Shovi, a spa resort known for its alpine climate, pine forests and abundance of mineral springs.

Shovi is situated at the altitude of 1,660 metres above sea level. Sixteen varieties of mineral water with different healthy components were found here. Soon after its construction in 1926, it became a popular destination for visitors from Centraland Eastern Europe. Utsera and Shovi are connected by a road crossing the central part of the Caucasus mountain range. These mountains are as high as 3,500-4,800 metres.

Ghebi and Goni – Magnificent views on neighbouring Svaneti The village of Ghebi with its snow-capped mountains and open meadows provides the most breath-taking views. The area provides camping facilities as well as options for outdoor activities such as horse-riding, mountaineering, hunting, and trout fishing. You may consider starting a hiking and camping tour here in order to get a majestic view over neighbouring Svaneti region.

Goni village is situated some 1,350 metres above sea level and is seven kilometres away from Ghebi. On your way to Goni, there are several monuments of historic significance to visit.

You can also go hunting, collect medicinal plants and enjoy the views of the snow-covered Caucasus. Unfortunately, the village of Goni is almost deserted today, but there are a few camping huts where tourist can stay.

of Okureshi, Aubi, and Isunderi. Since only a limited amount of land is available, just three tons of grapes are produced each year. Wines from Usakhelauri grapes are rare and expensive.

A red wine made from the Alexandrouli and Mudzhuretuli grape varieties cultivated near the town of Ambrolauri in Lower Rachais called Khvanchkara. It is one of the most popular Georgian wines and a visit to local family-owned wine cellars is highly recommended.

Should you decide to discover the natural beauty of Racha, make sure to also taste its delicious food! Famous dishes from Racha include Shkmeruli chicken or Lobiani ham. The locals are well-known for their hospitality and will be happy to introduce you to more of Racha’s specialties and secrets.

Niki Perkin works as an intern at the Private Sector Development Programme South Caucasus, implemented by GIZ on behalf of the German Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development. GIZ works with entrepreneurs from Upper Racha, the local Government, the Georgian National Tourism Agency, and other stakeholders to support the development of sustainable tourism in the region. For more information, please contact Nikoloz Perkin at: +995 593 533 533.

For information about GIZ, please refer to jochem.theis@giz.de.

Unique wines from family-owned cellars Racha is the motherland of two of the most famous wines in Georgia. The Usakhelauri grapes are grown on the mountain slopes near the villages

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GEORGIA – A RICH RESERVOIR OF PLANT AND ANIMAL LIFE

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eorgia, in the fascinating Caucasus region, is one of the richest reservoirs of plant and animal life on earth. Yet, like so many of the world’s beautiful areas, it is under threat and in need of conservation.

The “Caucasus ecoregion” is a biological melting pot of animal and plant species – originating in Europe, Asia and Africa – accompanied by special Caucasian features found nowhere else in the world. Currently 10% of the Caucasus ecoregion is under legislative protection of some kind, but much more conservation work remains to be done in the future.

The ecoregion of the Caucasus has many stories to tell. Caucasian temperate forests show the greatest biological diversity of their kind in the world. Vast primary forests uninfluenced by human cultivation can still be found here and, in the case of the so-called Colchic forest, some trees and shrubs can even be traced back to geological times long before human existence.

Georgia is home to many of the Caucasus ecoregion’s natural treasures. There are few countries that, in a radius of 250 km, can offer untouched virgin forests (countrywide), over 5000 m high mountain ranges (in the Greater and Lesser Caucasus), subtropical misty forests (in Mtirala), semi-desert areas with snowcapped mountains in the background (in Vashlovani) and karst caves with underground rivers that offer boat tours (at the Prometheus Cave).

A systemic legal approach to create Protected Areas began in the early 20th century. In 1912, Tsarist Russia declared Lagodekhi as the first official Strict Nature Reserve. Since then the territories under state protection have been expanded and as of today these areas make up 8.6% of Georgia. Protected Areas throughout the

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country are under legal protection and include 14 strict nature reserves, 10 national parks (the first, Borjomi-Kharagauli, in 1995), 17 managed nature reserves, 28 natural monuments and 2 protected landscapes. Three new protected areas with a total of 373 243 hectares are planned for future establishment.

A range of eco-tourism services can be arranged for visitors. Visitor Centres in National Parks are equipped with exhibition halls and conference rooms. All of the necessary practical information is available about trails, guide services, horseback riding, bike and equipment rental, campsites and shelters. Accommodation in nearby villages is also readily available.

Agency of Protected Areas of Georgia contact information: Tel: +995 32 272 03 88, *8888 Cell: +995 577 90 72 72 info@apa.gov.ge www.apa.gov.ge Facebook: Agency of Protected Areas

The World Wildlife Foundation Caucasus Office in close cooperation with the Agency of Protected Areas and TTG Georgia Ltd recently published exciting travel guidebooks on two regions of Georgia – Javakheti and Pshav-Khevsureti. KfW Bankengruppe (the German bank for reconstruction and development) and the Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund (CEPF) supported the publications.

Both regions offer many points of interest to nature lovers, while their diverse ecosystems and historical monuments make them memorable places to visit.

To facilitate in situ conservations on biodiversity, the Javakheti Protected Areas and Pshav-Khevsureti Protected Area were established in 2011 and 2014 respectively. Guides are available on site to describe the history and cultural heritage – both ethnological and natural – of these regions.

Attractive publications are packed with useful information, maps and insightful photos and are available through The World Wildlife Foundation Caucasus Office. Tel: +995 32 2237500 office@wwfcaucasus.org; panda.org/caucasus For further information please consult the website: www.issuu.com/lelakhartishvili

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and cross border partnerships for economic and social development in four Black Sea Basin countries: Georgia, Armenia, Bulgaria and Turkey.

Project funded by the European Union

Rural Tourism Over the last few years rural tourism has grown in popularity, specifically in industrialized countries.

The compounded effects of a hectic city life – loud noises, frenetic routines and snowballing stress – all prompt city dwellers to spend some time in the country side where they can be hosted in a friendly environment that allows them to forget, for a while at least, about daily worries and problems. If your aim is to “get away

from it all” then the countries of the Black Sea Basin region might be just the place for you!

This fascinating area is suffused with long-lived rural traditions and unspoiled nature. Guests are encouraged to visit different regions, welcomed to travel from village to village, urged to taste organic home-made dishes and made to feel what the true meaning of “country life” is.

Promoting Innovative Rural Tourism in the Black Sea Basin region (PIRT), co-funded by the Black Sea Basin Joint Operational Program, is one of the EU projects that supports regional cooperation

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The project partners combined their resources of Heifer Armenia, Heifer Georgia, Varna Economic Development Agency (VEDA, Bulgaria) and Gumushane National Educational Directorate (Turkey) that, individually and now together, have created rural tourism networks to promote joint initiatives and traditional products.

PIRT promotes families, farmers and capable local service providers in villages and small towns in four Black Sea countries that have expressed their interest in rural tourism and who are open for business. These establishments offer comfortable accommodation along with traditional food and wine; they provide a springboard for visitors eager to discover more about these newly foregrounded, rural destinations.

At the initial stage of the project PIRT established direct linkages between local service providers

by facilitating reciprocal visits between different establishments and by aiding in their participation in study tours and regional travel fairs. In addition the project has equipped local service providers with knowledge and skills – in fields such as hospitality, tourism, management and marketing – to successfully run their small and medium sized businesses. As a result a regional network has been created that unites local service providers, travel agencies and project organizers.

As a final stage the project will present a new regional tourism product entitled “The Single

CONTACTS: GEORGIA: Medea Tsitskishvili Heifer International Georgia Tel.: +995322313177 medea.ts@heifer.ge mtsitskishvili@yahoo.com Cross-border Visitor Package” that will be marketed by travel agencies participating in the project. This new product will encourage and facilitate the inter-flow of tourists in the Black Sea Basin region, with the aim of maximizing both exposure and interaction between the local population groups in participating countries and their peers from abroad.

In 2015 the PIRT Rural Tourism Network will be presented at the Touristic fairs in Yerevan, Armenia and Tbilisi, Georgia.

Visit the PIRT stand and learn more about Innovative Rural Tourism in the Black Sea Basin region!

ARMENIA: Anahit Ghazanchyan Heifer International Armenia Tel.: +37491403224 Anahit.Ghazanchyan@heifer.org BULGARIA: Todorka Dimitrova Varna Economic Development Agency Tel+35952606274 office@veda-bg.eu TURKEY: Serdar Serhat SALANTUR Gümüshane Milli Egitim Müdürlügü Tel: +904562131077/132 serdarsalantur@yahoo.com

TOUR OPERATORS IN GEORGIA: DISCOVER GEORGIA Natia Pashurishvili/Incoming Tours Manager info@discover-georgia.ge www.discover-georgia.ge EXPLORE GEORGIA Nini Ardishvili/Manager welcome@exploregeorgia.com www.exploregeorgia.com GEORGIAN HOLIDAYS Manana Tsiramua/General Director info@georgianholidays.com www.georgianholidays.com LIVING ROOTS Ia Tabagari/Managing Director info@travellivingroots.com www.travellivingroots.com GEORGIAN TOURISM COMPANY Shota Lagazidze/ Incoming tours manager gtc-tour@hotmail.com www.gtc-tour.ge SVANETI TOURISM CENTER/Svaneti Travel Zaur Chartolani/ Chairman/Director svaneti_trekking_ge@yahoo.com www.svanetitrekking.ge The Black Sea Programme is co-financed by the European Union through the European Neighborhood and Partnership Instrument www.blacksea-cbc.net

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IMERETI A REGION WITH A RICH PAST, HEALING WATERS AND VAST TOURISM POTENTIAL Ahmed Eiweida, World Bank Program Leader for the Sustainable Development Inga Paichadze, World Bank Senior External Affairs Officer for Georgia One of the most beautiful regions in Georgia, Imereti, located in the Kolkheti lowlands, is exceptionally rich in history and nature. This region dates back to ancient times; 3500 years ago this was the location of the powerful Kingdom of Colchis with its unique culture, mythology and political structure. Colchis is probably best remembered as the land of the legendary Golden Fleece where Jason and the Argonauts arrived in search of this precious trophy.

Imereti boasts a World Heritage Site – the Gelati Monastery Complex from the 12th century – and is home to several historically significant sites; among the most prominent are Bagrati Cathedral (11th c), Motsameta and Ubisa monasteries (12th and 10th centuries respectively). The unique Katskhi Pillar, with a monastery on top of a 40 meter high cliff; Sataplia and Prometheus caves; Vani museum of the Golden Fleece; Gordi canyon and skywalk; and the Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park, one of the largest in Europe covering more than 76,000 hectares of forests and meadows with countless species of rare flora and fauna.

The beauty of Imereti is complemented by the Tskaltubo and Sairme balneology resorts and spa, which have been well known for promoting healthy lifestyles, wellness and medical tourism since the Soviet era. The potential for reawakening this demand for spa and recreation facilities, within an integrated tourism circuit development in the region, has attracted US $30 million support from the World Bank Group. An estimated 75% of the funds are earmarked for overhauling the water and sanitation systems in Tskaltubo, renovating public buildings and the 70 hectare public park. Revitalizing Tskaltubo

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Tourism facility will be constructed near the Katskhi Pillar

to regain its glory is a key part of the tourism development strategy for aiding economic development in the Imereti region.

The Imereti Regional Development Project has two sets of activities, which envisage improving public and tourism infrastructure,raising institutional capacity and marketing and promotion of the region. These improvements will help increasing contribution of the tourism sector to the local economy of Imereti.

Ongoing investments in Tskaltubo include rehabilitating municipal infrastructure and utilities in the central area of the town, constructing tourism amenities and upgrading and landscaping of public spaces and the central park. The restoration of public buildings with vernacular architecture is almost complete; including the executive (Gamgeoba) and elected council (Sakrebulo) buildings, the theater and the old railway station which has been transformed into both a tourist information center and destination management office.

The project also includes infrastructure development in the wider circuit in region.

Construction of new tourism facilities (including information center, café/restaurant, public parking and toilets), as well as conservation works in the six most attractive cultural heritage sites — Gelati Monastery, Vani Museum, Ubisa Church, Katskhi Church, Katskhi Column Monastery and Motsameta Monastery – are underway.

The institutional development activities aim at enhancing the institutional capacity of the Georgian National Tourism Administration (GNTA), the National Agency for Cultural Heritage Preservation (NACHP), the National Museum and other local and regional entities to carry out the planned activities. Envisaged activities also include provision of training for hotel staff and other tourism-related personnel, and marketing and promotion of Imereti.

Such expanded tourism related activities would enhance the attractiveness of Tskaltubo for visitors and encourage more private sector investments to refurbish sanitariums/resort hotels around the central park. All these activities are expected to bring direct benefits to both the residents of Imereti and the tourists visiting the region. Apart from the knock-on effects, the project is also expected to generate employment, initially with temporary jobs during construction and subsequently with permanent, quality jobs following the project’s completion.

A series of broad-based public consultations were held by the World Bank Georgia Office to help identify the needs of the region, complete the Imereti Tourism Development and Marketing Strategy, design the tourism circuit and map, and prepare the project adequately.

WORLD BANK SUPPORT TO TOURISM IN GEORGIA With the World Bank’s technical assistance, the Georgia National Tourism Administration (GNTA) is leading in the formulation of a National Tourism Strategy. The strategy will both collect and analyze visitor, market and supplier data, as well as in comparable markets. Information gleaned from this data will then feed into a close engagement with industry stakeholders via a Tourism Advisory Board, task forces for workforce development, infrastructure improvements, investment and policy reform, as well as product and marketing strategy. Through a focus on improving the entire tourism value chain, the country’s tourism competitiveness – as measured by the OECD and World Economic Forum on their Tourism Competitiveness Index –will almost certainly increase and the entire country will benefit.

Tourism and travel is one of the fastest growing sectors of the economy in Georgia and a key generator of jobs, accounting for 14.2% of total

Conservation works at Gelati Monastic Complex, a UNESCO cultural heritage site direct and indirect employment in 2013, aside from making up 6 – 7% of GDP. The sector currently provides nearly 20% of export earnings.

The national tourism development strategy is, therefore, instrumental to take full advantage of Georgia’s potential and position it globally as a splendid, diversified and high-quality destination.

The World Bank’s support to regional development program in Georgia also includes Kakheti Regional Development Project, and an additional project starting in June 2015, focusing on Mtskheta-Mtianeti and Samtskhe-Javakheti regions.

New “Tskaltubo Plaza” hotel opened recently for visitors

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on Georgian Wines and the Traditional Method of Winemaking

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eorgia, a land of 520 grape varieties and an 8 000 year history of winemaking, proudly maintains its status as the birthplace of wine.

Millennia of viticulture in Georgia and entrenched traditions that have grown up around wine and winemaking have made it inseparable from the country’s national identity.

Some remarkable facts about Georgian wines – including the fact that many are still made in clay pots called qvevri, buried in the ground as they were in Neolithic times – have begun to spark curiosity amongst destination tourists.

Many discoveries have left historians in no doubt that Georgia is the birthplace of wine: ancient wine vessels made of clay, bronze and silver; gold

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cups for drinking wine; wine dated to the 2nd or even 3rd millennium BC; and vine seeds found in ancient tombs from the Bronze Age all leave a continuous trail of the history of Georgian wine.

Traditional Georgian wine technology is unique in the world and is probably the most ancient marvel of Georgian culture.

The centre of Georgian vine growing is the Kakheti Region, however wine production is not limited to this region only. The famous semisweet wine of Khvanchkara is found up in the beautiful Racha region. Every region of Georgia can surprise you with the different tastes of their wines, their colours and aromas.

Every Georgian peasant, who follows in this winemaking tradition, saves rare types of native vine as a matter of course and invariably has a special wine cellar for keeping and fermenting wine called a marani. Georgia’s traditional method of wine production using underground qvevri for fermentation has been placed on the UN list of protected, non-material cultural heritage since 2013.

Wine tours in Kakheti region are becoming ever more popular, and there are many different

wineries you can visit to taste individual and blended varieties of wine.

THE ALAVERDI MONASTERY WINE CELLAR “Monastery Wine ” is a millennium brand of Alaverdi Monastery Cellar made by the Alaverdi Monastery congregates in their 11th century cellar. The wine is produced from endemic Kakhetian grapes in traditional qvevris.

The royal temple of Alaverdi Monastery has always been the place where Kakhetian and Heretian kings came to pray and where monks performed their duties. Since 2006, archeological studies of the ancient cellar have revealed up to 50 qvevris with the capacity to produce over 60 tons of wine. The cellar utilized sophisticated qvevri designs and had a unique method of burying the qvevris. Rehabilitation work of the 11th century cellar was conducted with the financial support of the “Badagoni” company. The renovated cellar has been operating since 2006.

This old site of wine culture has since been turned into a “golden mine” of qvevri wines through the use of traditional Kakhetian technology.

The Alaverdi Monastery Wine Cellar offers Premium and Medium Wine Tours, both offering a taste of traditional Georgian qvevri wines.

An introductory tour includes a visit to the archeologically excavated historic area

of the cellar dating back to the 8th–10th centuries, the ethnographical area, the 11th century area with qvevri foundations, old wine cellar and finally some outdoor wine tasting.Tour reservations must be made a day in advance.

Tel: +995 599 155 022, +995 551 133444. keti.khizanishvili@gmail.com THE PHEASANT’S TEARS is a private winemaking cellar, located in the picturesque town of Sighnaghi. At Pheasant’s Tears artisanal wines are produced in accordance with ancient Georgian traditions. John Wurdeman, the owner, has a friendly and cozy restaurant that is well worth visiting for either lunch or dinner.

Their introductory tour looks at the history and methods of winemaking – featuring four qvevri wines — but visitors can also experience Georgian feasts, guided excursions and horseback tours around the historic town of Sighnaghi.

Tel: +995 598 72 28 48 . www.pheasanttears.com THE TWINS WINE CELLAR in Napareuli is an especially delightful agri-tourism winery and vineyard. It welcomes large groups and provides several activities for visitors. The winery is named after the identical twin brothers who own it.

Visitors can visit the wine museum, which displays all the qvevri processes. In addition to the winery,

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vineyards and guest accommodation there is also a restaurant that serves traditional Georgian food.

This winery is a perfect place for family vacations and is particularly popular with kids.

Tel: +995 9917 09 29, +995 350 23 57 85 info@cellar.ge; www.cellar.ge CHATEAU MERE is an amazing castle with four rather extraordinary pointed towers. The Chateau arranges tastings of the Winiveria fine dry red and white wines, all made from Georgian endemic grape varieties. In addition, Chateau Mere visitors are able to stay in the Mere Hotel, have lunch and dinner at the restaurant, make use of the conference hall, dive into the outdoor swimming pool or enjoy horse riding.

Tel: +995 595 99 03 99, +995 595 99 03 90 www.mere.ge IAGO’S GVINO in the village of Chardakhi in Mtskheta, Iago Batarashvili makes about 3000 bottles of wine per season which is exported to several countries around the world. Iago runs a bio-industry in the village and makes his wine using traditional Georgian methods such as the qvevri. Wine lovers hugely enjoy their visits to Iago, often even more so after sampling his excellent chacha – Georgian pomace brandy.He also provides an introduction to the ancient wine making traditions and, along with wine tasting, you can purchase his wines at source. In the rest

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of Georgia, Iago’s wine can be bought only at the “Wine Underground” and in“The Terrace” and “Azarpesha” restaurants in Tbilisi.

Tel: +995 5 93 35 24 26 Chardakhi@gmail.com CHATEAU MUKHRANI was founded on a tradition of winemaking in the Mukhrani region of Georgia that dates back in millennia. It was the original Georgian royal chateau, and the only chateau to unite four key components: vineyard, winery, castle and history. The winemaking of Château Mukhrani started in 1876. The fabulous castle surrounded by gardens and vineyards, just a 25 minute drive from Tbilisi, invites wine lovers to discover a flavour of antiquity and enchanting wines. Lots of visitors are fascinated by Chateau Mukhrani wine tours and events.

T: +995 595 99 13 14/16 winetours@mukhrani.com www.mukhrani.com SHUMI, a wine company in historic Tsinandali, opened the first national vine and wine museum – entitled “Vazioni” – in Georgia. The museum exhibits ancient winemaking accessories found nationwide such as grape presses, clay qvevri and various drinking vessels used in antiquity.

The wine-tasting area of the museum is very popular among foreign visitors who can taste and purchase SHUMI products in a unique environment. Tel: +995 32 238 11 37 winery@shumi.ge; www.shumi.ge

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BAGRATIONI, the leading sparkling wine producing company of Georgia, offers winter tours and tastings, as well as fine Georgian and European dining at Bagrationi Hall(in the factory building). A variety of their excellent wines may be purchased at special prices.

Tel: +995 32 249 72 74. www.bagrationi.ge

The Georgian Sommeliers Association Established in 2003, the Georgian Sommeliers Association is a full member of the International Sommeliers Association. Its partners are the National Wine Agency of the Ministry of Agriculture, The Levan Mikeladze Diplomatic Training Centre of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs,the National Intellectual Property Centre of Georgia Sakpatenti and the RoomsHotel.

Since the very outset, in 2003, the Association set up a training centre that is now called the “Tbilisi Wine School”. It conducts a Sommeliers Qualification Programme twice a year as well as a special short course for wine lovers.

The Association also publishes a magazine called “Wine as Culture” – the first edition of which was issued in 2005. In 2014 the publication was renewed.

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With the support of the National Wine Agency, the Association embarked on making a film about wine. The author of the film’s concept is Mr. Shalva Khetsuriani, Honourable Ambassador of Georgian Wine and the President of the Association. Nana JorJadze, a famous Georgian filmmaker, directs the film; the script is by Tamar Bartaia, and Mikheil Kvirikadze is the director of photography. The premiere of the film is planned for spring 2015.

In 2014 – with the support of the National Wine Agency – the Georgian Sommeliers Association jointly with the 200-year old Austrian wine glass company Riedel, created a special glass for the “main” red Georgian wine Saperavi. The creation of one more special glass – for qvevri wine – is planned for 2015. Riedel is the most important global brand in the fields of wine glass manufacture and related accessories; it has created special glasses for more than 20 varieties of the most important, internationally renowned varieties of grape.

In May 2015, the National Wine Agency and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will support the initiative called “Wine Receptions” to be held in various countries, but all dedicated to Georgian Independence Day (26 May).

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The newly-restored Rustaveli Theatre in the centre of tbilisi has excellent plays, but mostly in Georgian. There are great concerts at the Tbilisi Conservatoire, also close by, and at the Philharmonic Concert Hall which often features Georgian dancers and international jazz celebrities.

Try to attend concerts of Georgian dancers and polyphonic singers and see the world-famous Georgian Ballet Company “Sukhishvilebi” established in 1945 by Iliko Sukhishvili and Nino Ramishvili. “Sukhishvilebi” has been on more than 200 tours around the world and their concerts amazed audience in each country. Nowadays “Sukhishvilebi” is considered to be a national treasure.

Don’t miss out on the cultural life of Georgia!

Georgia, and especially Tbilisi, presents yearround cultural activities. There are festivals, concerts, classical and Georgian dance events and even an excellent circus throughout the year.

YEAR ROUND CULTURAL ACTIVITIES

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FESTIVAL OF ETUDES 27th of March, WORLD THEATRE DAY

PHOTO FESTIVAL “KOLGA” May-June

Every year, Shota Rustaveli Theater and Film Georgia State University together with the Kote Marjanishvili State Drama Theatre, stage a Festival of Etudes to celebrate World Theatre Day on March 27th. The Festival which was launched in 2008, is sold out every year and has captured the growing interest of an ongoing loyal audience. This has required it to move from the small Marjanishvili studio space onto the big main performance stage. The Festival is adjudicated by a professional jury as well as a student jury.

For further information please visit: www.tafu.edu.ge

For many years now, the Tbilisi International Photo Contest Kolga has been an integral part of the city life. Photographers get prizes for their special contribution to the development of Georgian photography.

This year, the photo contest will be held for the 12th time. Georgian and foreign photographers will participate in the Festival.

For further information please visit: www.kolga.ge

different activities such as master-classes, one shot movie workshops, round tables, film screenings, as well as the opening and award ceremonies.

There are 4 main nominations in the festival: best feature film, best documentary film, best animated/experimental film and the Jury Grand Prix. Students also receive special diplomas for best direction, camera and sound. The festival is supported by the Ministry of Culture, Tbilisi City Hall and the National Film Centre.

For further details please visit: www.tbilisistudentfilmfestival.ge

NEW WINE FESTIVAL May This wine festival is held in The Museum of Ethnography and almost all large wine companies and several small wine producers participate in it. Family wines from different regions of Georgia are lavishly demonstrated. One of the main educational and entertaining shows at the festival was the winemaking process in one of the yards of the Museum.

For further details please visit www.wineclub.ge TBILISI INTERNATIONAL STUDENT FILM FESTIVAL “AMIRANI” June Founded in the early 1980’s by Shota Rustaveli Theatre and Film Georgia State University, the festival became the most liberal festival of the Soviet Union. Hundreds of films from different corners of the world participate annually in the selection process. Just under a hundred filmmakers join the festival and take part in

THE “ART-GENE” FOLK FESTIVAL July The Festival is held at the Tbilisi Ethnography Museum. It offers concerts with dancing, singing and poetry as well as displays of art and craft and fine arts by Georgians from different provinces.

It traditionally begins with expeditions and various events in different regions of Georgia, and culminates at the Tbilisi Museum of Ethnography near the Turtle Lake.

For further details please visit: www.artgeni.ge BATUMI INTERNATIONAL CLASSICAL MUSIC FESTIVAL NIGHT SERENADES August The International Classical Music Festival "Night Serenades" was founded in 1982 by Liana Isakadze, a famous Georgian violinist. The first festival was held in Bitchvinta, Abkhazia. In 1991 the festival was cancelled and then revived 18 years later in 2009, in Batumi. The Batumi Night Serenades festival is now held in the open-air, at historic Gonio Castle (5th c. B.C). Recently Liana Isakadze presented her new idea: she had united all those famous musicians who were registered in the Facebook and founded the chamber orchestra the “Virtuosi of Facebook”

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which became the basic team of the festival. In 2011, parallel to this festival, Liana Isakadze also organized another International Festival Friends of Facebook at the Batumi Ilia Chavchavadze Theatre the aim of which is to unite artists from all over the world. The festival is conducted with the support of the International Charity Fund of Catholicos Patriarch of All Georgia, Ministry of Culture and Monument Protection of Georgia and Batumi City Hall.

William Burdett Coutts, Terry Sandell, Nina Parry, Dmitry Krymov, Stas Namin, Michael Marmarinos and others. For 2015 programme details please visit: www.giftfestival.ge TELAVI INTERNATIONAL MUSIC FESTIVAL October

TBILISI INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF THEATRE September – October The Festival is one of the major events in international life of Georgia, attracting attention of well-known, creative and innovative theatre productions from the world. The Festival takes place in Tbilisi. It also announces a call for applications for participation in the festival Programme “NEW”! which focuses on the work of innovative young, mid-career and emerging artists, providing a platform to share work and artistic ideas.

For participation and festival details visit www.tbilisiinternational.com or contact: Tel: +995 322 95 35 82 +995 322 95-43-07, info@tbilisiinternational.com

The Telavi State Drama Theatre traditionally hosts musicians from all over the world every autumn. Annual Telavi International Music Festival inspired by Eliso Virsaladze, famous Georgian pianist, is dedicated to protect, develop and promote classical music. In 2013 -2014 the most of festival’s programme was accompanied by the International Orchestra of musicians from Georgia, Switzerland, Germany, Austria, Poland, and Israel. Ariel Zucherman, conductor from Israel, was a special guest and participant of the festival, while soloists from Georgia and other countries performed the best of their repertoire.

Within the framework of the festival, parallel to concerts, master classes are held at Telavi Music College.

For 2015 programme details please visit: www.cmcgeorgia.org

GIFT FESTIVAL October – November Theatre fans look forward to autumn in Tbilisi when the GIFT Festival -Georgian International Festival in honor of Mikheil Tumanishvili-takes place and usually offers unforgettable days to the audience. GIFT was founded upon the decision and participation of the legendary directors of the world leading international art festivals (Edinburgh, Adelaide, Perth, and Melbourne). The board members of Festival are worldwide known and appreciated art workers and producers: Vanessa Redgrave, Peter Brook, Hilary Wood, Thelma Holt, Oleg Tabakov, Anatoliy Vasilyev,

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MUSIC FESTIVAL “AUTUMN TBILISI” September – October The International Music Festival “Autumn Tbilisi” features classical music, folk music and jazz concerts. Musicians are invited from different countries. Jansugh Kakhidze, the world famous Georgian conductor, was the founder of the festival. His idea was to create an internationally

recognized annual music festival, which would serve for regenerating of rich concert life traditions always present in Georgia. The festival is well known outside Georgia too – a lot of soloists and music ensembles express desire to participate in this event. The programme of the festival is very diverse. The festival also deems it extremely important to present the works

by Georgian modern composers and Georgian traditional music.

For further information please visit: www.kakhidzemusiccenter.com

TBILISI AND BATUMI JAZZ FESTIVALS July The company Eastern Promotions, one of the most respected agencies for jazz, blues and other musical genres in the world, has been promoting since 1998 notable and highly acclaimed musicians in the Caucasus region including Ray Charles, James Brown, George Benson, Natalie Cole and others. In 2013 Marcus Miller came to Georgia for the third time, having been at the Batumi Black Sea Jazz Festival previously with the programme “Free,” and later presenting the album “Tutu” in Tbilisi, dedicated to Miles Davis.

The festival arranges unforgettable evenings for guests.

For festival 2015 programme please visit: www.tbilisijazz.com and www.batumijazz.ge BATUMI INTERNATIONAL ART-HOUSE FILM FESTIVAL (BIAFF)- September Established in 2006, BIAFF has been designed to enhance cultural exchange, understanding, and collaboration through the screening of new art house-house and non-commercial films from Georgia and abroad. The event provides an opportunity for well-known film makers, producers and film critics to meet and share their

expertise and works with other people in their respective fields and gives local cinema lovers and other individuals a better understanding of the industry and its people through retrospectives.

BIAFF is also focused on providing a quality educational opportunity for those people interested in film and cinematography.

For more details please visit: www.biaff.org

3RD TBILISI DOCUMENTARY FILM FESTIVAL October Founded in Tbilisi in 2013 CinéDOC-Tbilisi Documentary Film Festival is the first international documentary festival in the South of Caucasus that focuses on creative documentary.

The audience has a chance to view a variety of documentary films with a unique directing vision, an original visual style, sympathetic protagonists and powerful stories. The festival presents award winning films from outside Georgia as well as local and regional productions. The film screenings are followed by Q&A sessions and debates with the invited filmmakers, master classes with renowned film professionals, open sessions with international guests.

For more details please visit: www.cinedoc-tbilisi.com

INTERNATIONAL SHORT FILM FESTIVAL SESILY September - October The first Film Festival in Georgia titled “Sesily” in memory of Georgian actress Sesilia Takaishvili was held in 2001 where over 83 works were presented and screened including short feature films, documentary films, animated,

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experimental, music videos, commercials and infomercial genre works, thus comprising a full package of art forms of filmmaking. The International Short Film Festival "Sesily" took over focusing on discovering and supporting new talented generations, educating and bringing them closer to the international filmmaking arena. For more details please visit: www.festivalsesily.ge ARTISTERIUM – TBILISI INTERNATIONAL CONTEMPORARY ART EXHIBITION October – November Artisterium is the annual International Contemporary Art Exhibition and Art Event organized by the Georgia-based nongovernmental art organization Artisterium Association. The event is composed of international exhibitions, individual art projects, educational and cultural programs. This is one of the most significant international art events in the South Caucasus.

It is supported by the Ministry of Culture and Monument Protection of Georgia, British Council, Goethe Institute, French Institute and the Embassies and international organizations working in Georgia. It hosts the artists, artistic groups, curators and art critics from the South Caucasus, Turkey, Europe, USA and Asia.

For further information on 2015 themes and events please visit: www.artisterium.org

ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF CONTEMPORARY ART KYRIL AND ILIA ZDANEVUCH FEST i NOVA GARIKULA – September Art Villa Garikula is the space for creative and innovative ideas. It annually hosts the Festival of Contemporary Art which highlights individual and joint projects, workshops for students, young artists and other interested individuals and gathers local and foreign artists and curators of the art residential programme.

It offers exhibitions, performances, tours, etc., and showcases visual, performing, conceptual, multimedia art. FEST i NOVA largely contributes to brining local and foreign artists closer and deepening intercultural dialogue.

The festival's activities, projects, programmes and participants can observe regularly updated news on the Festival blog.

“TBILISOBA” - THE FESTIVAL OF CAPITAL CITY October Every year the capital city celebrates the festival “TBILISOBA” on the last Sunday of October.

This is the time of harvest, winemaking and weddings and all of these accompanied by songs, dances and jokes! The Georgians from different provinces bring their harvest to the capital and sell organic products at low prices at the open air

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bazaars. This colourful pageant vividly conveys the character not only of the city but the entire land of Georgia. Many interesting events full of surprises especially for children take place on that day. For more details please visit: www.tbilisiculture.com

16th TBILISI INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL (TIFF) December The festival is one of the most significant events in the cultural life of Tbilisi run by the Cinema Art Centre, Prometheus. It is a noncommercial, versatile cultural event which aims to demonstrate new, highly artistic cinema production to the general public. The festival’s competition programme includes 10-12 feature films created by European filmmakers. Over the period of twelve years the festival has hosted more than 500 film directors, producers, actors, film experts, documentalists.

For more details please visit: www.tbilisifilmfestival.ge

TBILISI FASHION WEEK Since 2009, Tbilisi Fashion Week (TFW) represents the major international fashion event in Georgia.

TFW is held twice a year and presents Spring/ Summer and Fall/Winter collections. Within the framework of the project, Georgia is visited by fashion industry professionals, designers, critics, journalists and editors of popular fashion publications. TFW supports the development of fashion industry in Georgia, promotes new, talented designers and assists exporting Georgian fashion production on International Market For further information visit: www.tbilisifashionweek.com

The next edition of Tbilisi Fashion Week will take place on April 16-19, where Georgian designers present their F/W 2015-16 collections.

Besides the main catwalk, TFW will present side events and exhibitions.

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Famous Georgians PAATA BURCHULADZE Paata Burchuladze has a bass singing voice and received his vocal training in Tbilisi, his hometown. He has been a member of the local opera company since 1986 and was chosen to complete his studies at Milan’s prestigious Teatro alla Scala.

In 1981 he emerged as winner from the international vocal competition Voci Verdiane in Busseto; he won the gold medal and first prize at the Tchaikovsky Competition in Moscow the following year. In 1985 he triumphed again at the International Luciano Pavarotti Competition.

He first caused a major sensation at London’s Royal Opera House where he made his debut as Ramfis in AIDA alongside Katia Ricciarelli and Luciano Pavarotti, all conducted by Zubin Mehta.

Invited by Herbert von Karajan, he sang Commendatore in Mozart’s Don Giovanni at the Salzburg Festival in 1987 and, with this legendary conductor, starred in both Verdi and Mozart’s Requiem Masses.

Burchuladze received special acclaim for his portrayal of Boris Godunov when he inaugurated the Metropolitan season in 1990/91. He sang this role at Covent Garden, the State Operas of Vienna and in Munich – his 100th performance of Boris at the latter in July 1995.

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Burchuladze’s discography comprises Il Barbiere di Siviglia, Simon Boccanegra, Aida and Ernani for DECCA; Mozart’s Don Giovanni and Messa da Requiem, La Forza del Destino, Eugene Onegin and Khovanshchina with Deutsche Grammophon; Rigoletto with EMI; La Boheme and Nabucco with Koch-Schwann; and Samson et Dalila for Philips. In February 1998, he became the first Georgian to be acclaimed Prince by the Russian Orthodox Church. The State Opera of Stuttgart awarded his loyalty with the Kammersänger title in July 1998.

In 2004 Burchuldze established the “Iavnana” (Lullaby in Georgian) International Charity Foundation, which provides reliable shelter for orphans and children deprived of parental care. Under its auspices a number of charity concerts have since been held in both Georgia and abroad. In acknowledgement of his charity work the UN made Burchuldaze a Good Will Ambassador in 2006.

NANA JORJADZE

From then on he conquered all the major opera houses including Teatro alla Scala, the Vienna State Opera, the Bavarian State Opera, the Hamburg State Opera, the Opéra National de Paris, the San Francisco Opera, Washington Opera and the Metropolitan Opera in New York.

Apart from his operatic fame, Paata Burchuladze is also a celebrated concert and recital singer. He has performed at the Musikverein und Konzerthaus Vienna, the Salzburg Festival, Covent Garden, Deutsche Oper Berlin, the Bavarian State Opera, Stuttgart State Opera, Tonhalle in Zurich, La Monnaie in Brussels, La Bastille and Salle Gaveau in Paris, Solothurn in Switzerland and the Palau in Barcelona – to name a few.

Nana Jorjadze – a film director, actress and collaborating scriptwriter – found herself living and working outside her native Georgia in France, Germany and Russia for more than 30 years. Her 1987 work Robinsoniada (My English Grandfather) was a breakthrough film that won her the Caméra d’Or at the 1987 Cannes Film Festival along with both critical and popular acclaim. She moved to France early in the 1990s and directed several films

including A Chef in Love (1996) – starring Pierre Richard alongside other famous Georgian actors – which became the first, and so far the only, Georgian film to be nominated for an Academy Award. The plot centres on a French cook who falls in love with both Georgian cuisine and a Georgian princess.

ANITA RACHVELISHVILI The charismatic Georgian mezzo-soprano Tbilisi native Anita Rachvelishvili became famous after her internationally televised debut of the title role in Carmen – during the opening night of the La Scala season, 2009 – opposite Jonas Kaufmann as Don José, in a production staged by Emma Date and conducted by Daniel Barenboim.

After her brilliant performance as Carmen at the Metropolitan Opera, the New York Times published a review entitled A Gypsy, Fiery Yet Cool: “Any good Carmen will dominate the stage, and Ms. Rachvelishvili ... surely did here.

With her smoldering, earthy sexuality she is ideal for the role, managing to seem untamed, almost unhinged at times, yet also coolly calculating”.

Engagements for the 2014/2015 seasons will include her return to the Teatro alla Scala for both Carmen and a new production of Aida led by Lorin Maazel. Then she will star as Amneris in Aida at the Rome Opera; reprise

ELISO VIRSALADZE

Nana Jorjadze has successfully completed shooting a 35-part film on Georgian wine – the premiere of which will be held in spring 2015. The idea belongs to the main narrator in the film, Shalva Khetsuriani, an Honorary Ambassador of Georgian Wine and Chairman of the Sommelier Association of Georgia.

The film will become excellent promotional material for the presentation of Georgian wine to both local and foreign audiences.

her role as Carmen at the Metropolitan Opera and, for the first time, perform Carmen at the Mariinsky Theatre. She will also sing in the Verdi Requiem at the Salzburg Festival.

Engagements in future seasons include her Paris Opera debut as Amneris in Aida; Samson et Dalila in Berlin and Sao Paulo; and Azucena in ll Trovatore at Covent Garden.

Don’t miss the HER PERFORMANCES!

Virtuoso Pianist – Founder of the Telavi International Music Festival.

Eliso Virsaladze is a famous Georgian pianist.

She was born in Tbilisi, but has been teaching at Moscow Conservatory since 1967 and more recently, from 1995, at the University of Music and Performing Arts in Munich, Germany.

Since 1966 she has given recitals and appeared with major international orchestras under Yevgeny Svetlanov, Kyrill Kondrashin, Riccardo Muti, Yuri Temirkanov, Kurt Sanderling and Wolfgang Sawallisch.

Virsaladze enjoys playing chamber music and has partnered with Natalia Gutman, and with both the Borodin and the Taneyev Quartets.

She often participates as a jury member in many international piano competitions. She is also a renowned interpreter of Schumann, Beethoven, Mozart and Chopin, as well as of modern Soviet and Russian composers. LIVE CLASSICS has recorded most of her broad repertoire.

Virsaladze is the founder of the regular Telavi International Music Festival.

For 2015 program details of the Festival please visit: www.cmcgeorgia.org

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Beka began jazz studies with Zurab Ramishvili – one of the most prominent jazz piano professors in Georgia – aged nine. A year later, he was playing at various jazz clubs in Tbilisi. 2007 saw his participation in both the Saulkrasti Jazz Festival in Latvia and at the 10th International Festival Georgians Play Jazz held at Tbilisi State Conservatory.

In April 2008, the US Embassy in Tbilisi hosted two State Department sponsored cultural envoys: jazz pianist Dan Tepfer and Joel Harrison – Artistic Director, President and Chief Executive Officer of the American Pianists Association. Both pianists praised Beka’s unique talent highly after performing with him.

Then, in July 2009, Beka won the Montreux Jazz Piano Competition held on the shores of Lake Geneva.

In the same year the Development and Reforms Fund of Georgia awarded Beka a full scholarship for studies at the pre-college division of the Juilliard School, where he takes jazz piano classes with Frank Kimbrough and classical piano classes with Victoria Mushkatkol. Concurrently he attends the Professional Performing Arts School in New

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KATIE MELUA

BEKA GOCHIASHVILI Beka Gochiashvili – the youngest winner of the Montreux Jazz Piano Competition – was born in Tbilisi on March 11, 1996. He was only three years old when he watched Standards II by Keith Jarrett, Gary Peacock and Jack DeJohnette: the video recording that triggered his devotion and passion for this sophisticated trio and their performance style. At the age of four Beka was already playing several piano compositions. At eight, he won a competition at the Schwaigern Classical Music Festival in Germany where he performed pieces by Ravel, Mozart and Handel.

York, NY and still finds time to participate in the Batumi International Jazz Festival annually held in Georgia. Read more on Beka at: www.bekagochiashvili.com

The beautiful Georgian-born British-raised singer, songwriter and guitarist – is one of Britain’s most successful recording artists.

She has sold more than 11 million albums, 1 million concert tickets and received 56 platinum awards. Her exquisite voice, skilful musicianship and haunting songs – so resonant of the Caucasus – are internationally known and loved. In a full-page interview under the heading My Kind of Town in the respected London newspaper “The TELEGRAPH” she commented on Tbilisi, “the city of her childhood”, as follows: “It’s a city that’s very much off the beaten track. Not many tourists have been there, which makes it all the more worth visiting ... I love to go to one of the old bathhouses ... I always come out feeling marvelously rejuvenated ... The Georgians will treat you like royalty, and the odds are you’ll do a lot of eating, drinking and toasting.”

To a first-time visitor she recommends seeing the Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi, the Anchiskhati Basilica of St Mary – which dates back to the 6th century – or the Narikala Fortress with its wonderful views over the city. When asked what to return with she said: “You’ve got to bring back some tkemali, traditional Georgian plum sauce. It’s lovely with chicken and kebabs. You could also buy a record by Hamlet Gonashvili, one of Georgia’s most popular folk singers.”

For more information about Katie Melua’s performances see www.katiemelua.com

EUROPEAN YOUTH OLYMPIC FESTIVAL (EYOF) IN TBILISI, GEORGIA! The 2015 Summer EYOF will take place in Tbilisi, between 25 July and 1 August 2015.

Participation in the EYOF is open to all European young athletes nominated by their National Olympic Committee (NOC). There will be nine sports on the programme of the 2015 Summer EYOF, all located in the city of Tbilisi: • Judo • Artistic Gymnastics • Swimming • Athletics • Tennis • Basketball • Volleyball • Cycling • Handball The NOC delegations will be accommodated in newly built Olympic Village on the shores of the so-called Tbilisi Sea. For more information please see: www.tbilisi2015.com www.facebook.com/ TbilisiEYOF

Georgia have already played away to Scotland in a Group D qualifier, losing 1-0 at Glasgow’s Ibrox Stadium in October 2014 before a crowd of 34 719 which included at least one Georgian in traditional Chokha.

TEMUR KETSBAIA AND GIORGI NEMSADZE SHINING SOCCER STARS OF GEORGIA

By Peter Dodge No one who was in Tbilisi in October 2007 will forget the good-humoured arrival of an estimated 2 500 members of the Tartan Army (supporters of Scotland’s national football team). The Scots, many in kilts, were in town for a EURO 2008 qualifying match. Much to the surprise of most home fans, a young Georgian team triumphed 2-0 over opponents who had recently beaten 2006 World Cup runners-up France both at home and away.

2015 will see the return of the Tartan Army to Tbilisi, with the Boris Paichadze Dinamo Arena hosting a EURO 2016 qualifier on Friday 4th September. This is less than four weeks after the visit to the same stadium of the winners of the Champions League and the Europa League for the UEFA Super Cup (Tuesday 11th August).

For Temur Ketsbaia – the then coach of Georgia who was to resign the following month – that match brought a nostalgic return to a country where he had spent a notable part of his playing career. He took time out to visit Dens Park, the home of Dundee FC – a club he joined in October 2001 – where he was voted Player of the Year despite having played only 22 games. He has made 78 appearances for Newcastle in the English Premiership and won 45 cups for Georgia.

Ketsbaia was not, though, the only Georgian at Dens. Young defender Zurab Khizanishvili (who also played in Scotland for Rangers with Shota Arveladze and has gone on to represent his country 93 times) had joined in March 2001. But perhaps most notable of all was the “man with the dancing feet”, Giorgi Nemsadze. His entry in the Dundee Hall of Fame recalls a reporter commenting: “The Georgian’s close control was such that one wondered if he had wiped his boots with glue rather than polish”. Between 2000 and 2004, Nemsadze played 79 times for Dundee and, from 1992 to 2004, 69 times for Georgia.

The years since independence have not been easy ones for Georgian football. But there is a part of North-East Scotland where the ferocious shooting of Ketsbaia and the skill of Nemsadze remain the stuff of legend.

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Georgian rugby A REMARKABLE 25 YEAR JOURNEY

Every four years, the international rugby spotlight turns onto the 20 nations participating in the finals of the Rugby World Cup (RWC). The Georgian national team (the Lelos) has played at every RWC since 2003 and will be in England and Wales for RWC 2015. The tournament starts on 18th September.

Georgia’s consistent presence at the finals is a significant achievement, and Georgian rugby a great post-independence success story. For a nation of under 5 million to be ranked seventh in Europe (behind only the long-established “Six Nations”) is impressive enough. But this is a country which did not even have a national team until a wet afternoon in Kutaisi in September 1989 when a not yet independent Georgia defeated Zimbabwe 16-3 before a crowd of 12,000. Some say, though, that Georgians invented rugby – in the form of the traditional folk sport “lelo burti” (“Field Ball”).

Paradoxically, one of the greatest highlights of the 25 years since 1989 was a defeat. In 2007, Georgia came within five points of creating perhaps the biggest shock in RWC history, losing to Ireland 14-10 in Bordeaux. London-based student Erekle Koplatadze (whose family lived in Dublin) recalls the reaction of taxi drivers there to being told he was Georgian. “They’d initially pause and I’d assume they hadn’t heard of the country. But later they’d start naming some of the Georgian players and recalling how Georgia almost upset Ireland. In the three years I went there, I heard many stories about how they felt during the game and how close it was.”

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As a mark of their progress, in November 2014 the Lelos were invited to the Aviva Stadium in Dublin to take on Ireland again, this time in the prestigious Guinness Series of Autumn internationals. A brave display kept the half-time score to 9-0 but in the second half, experience and strength in depth won through. Georgia, though, was far from disgraced in losing 49-7 to a team which ended 2014 ranked third in the world and were the reigning Six Nations champions.

What are the prospects for 2015? Georgia’s first ever RWC finals win came against Namibia in 2007. In 2011, the Lelos defeated Romania.

Nobody will expect Georgia to beat world champions New Zealand at Cardiff’s Millenium Stadium on Friday 2nd October. Likewise, 2011 quarter-finalists Argentina will present a tough test in Gloucester on Friday 25th September.

But at the end of 2014, Namibia (the Lelos’ opponents in Exeter on Wednesday 7th October) were ranked 8 places below Georgia, so there is the potential for victory there. And what may be the closest game of all is the Lelos’ opener on Saturday 19th September, again at Gloucester, against Tonga (ranked only two places above Georgia). Can Georgia win two games at the finals for the first time? A 35-24 victory in Tbilisi in November 2014 over eleventh ranked Japan gives cause for hope.

To welcome the Lelos, the British Georgian Society has set up a Facebook page “Rugby World Cup 2015 Georgia: Saqartvelos Gaumarjos”. Even if your main allegiance lies elsewhere, you can “Like” the Facebook page, adopt Georgia as your favourite underdogs and join in the latest stage of a remarkable 25 year rugby journey.

Peter Dodge

Tbilisimarathon that has been run already for the last three years, has truly become an international annual sports event and a very successful social project organized by HeidelbergCement Caucasus.

The next Tbilisimarathon will be held on 25 October, 2015. With its growing popularity, Tbilisimarathon is gaining scale and next year it will move from Tbilisi Sea to the city centre, where the event will attract even more tourists, participants and sponsors. As a result, Tbilisimarathon will cover the main streets and therefore will become one of the major landmarks for Tbilisi, increasing the city’s social and tourist impact.

Up to almost 2000 people registered for the third Tbilisimarathon, held on 25 October, 2014. The funds received from the registration – GEL 15630 were doubled by Heidelbergcement and donated to build a house for children in need in Bediani, Georgia.

In 2015, Tbilisimarathon will move to the city centre, where it will attract even more participants and enable the runners to further enjoy Tbilisi places of interest TbilisiMarathon was also the first integrated half marathon in Georgia with ten physically handicapped athletes among the participants.

It was also the first time in the history of TbilisiMarathon, when the persons with disabilities were involved in some organizational issues of the event.

The record score was reached by Anatoli Oleinikov after 1 hour and 13 minutes, who crossed the finish line of the 3rd TbilisiMarathon as the happy winner. Some 25 minutes later followed Valia Avagyan, the fastest female runner.

Employees from HeidelbergCement Caucasus and other Georgian and foreign companies, organizations, ministries and embassies also participated in the marathon.

Tbilisimarathon timing and results services are calculated according to the international standards, supervised by the German Company “Mika Timing” - „Official Timekeeping and Data Processing”. Tbilisimarathon participants get online certificates, where exact time of crossing finish lines is indicated. The system is approved and acknowledged by Stuttgart, Frankfurt, Hamburg and Berlin Marathons.

The sport event is fully supported by the Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs of Georgia, Tbilisi City Hall and German Embassy in Georgia.

The next year’s Tbilisimarathon will attract even more participants and enable the runners to further enjoy Tbilisi places of interest. Besides the joy of the charity involvement, the next year’s marathoners will experience a environment of the city center with a wonderful award ceremony, pasta party and numerous gifts and surprises.

Registration for Tbilisimarathon 2015 can be done individually or as group/company. Tbilisimarathon gives an exceptional opportunity to promote companies in the framework of healthy lifestyle, support worldwide famous competition – half marathon in Georgia and at the same time get involved in charity.

Promotion of a healthy lifestyle is an integral part of Health & Safety programs that represent a major aspect of HeidelbergCement corporate policy, which together with the charity contribution are the main reasons of holding the Tbilisi half marathon.

HeidelbergCement is the global market leader in aggregates and a prominent player in the fields of cement, concrete and other downstream activities, making it one of the world’s largest manufacturers of building materials. The company employs some 52,500 people at 2,500 locations in 40 countries.

Participants from more than 25 countries…

Tbilisimarathon is qualified as Half Marathon – 21.0975 km, where all those who are willing, both amateurs and professionals can participate.

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BC and 4th c. AD. Magnificent gold and silver jewelry – diadems, headgear, temple rings, vessels and more are on the display here. The renewed exposition of the History of Nature collection which is presented in two halls; it offers geological, botanical, and zoological expositions accompanied by illustrations made by the wife of Giorgi Voronov (1874-1931), Caucasian flora researcher. The exhibition also offers photos, videos and articles, made by the National Geographic, set in the 19th-20th cc. - depicting flora, fauna and geology of the times.

THE NATIONAL GALLERY

11 Rustaveli Ave, Tbilisi. The main entrance to the gallery is from the backyard of the museum, the 9 April Park.

There are many excellent museums, galleries and workshops where you can see artists at work throughout Georgia, particularly in Tbilisi. They represent a wide range of arts and crafts.

Galleries and museums throughout Georgia are open Tuesday through Sunday, from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. They are closed on Mondays and official holidays.

The price for tickets in most museums is 3-5 GEL for adults, 1 GEL for students, 0.5 GEL for schoolchildren, and 15-25 GEL for guided tours.

MUSEUMS and GALLERIES NATIONAL MUSEUM OF GEORGIA

3 Rustaveli Ave., Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 299 80 22 www.museum.ge The National Museum is the largest museum complex in Georgia, unifying 11 museums, 1 gallery, 4 house museums and 2 research centres.

The museum complex presents a wide range of Georgian culture artifacts from all around the country including magnificent medieval Christian art, the oldest known proof of human existence in Eurasia, stunning gold and silver, jewelry from the ancient land of Colchis and aweinspiring modern and contemporary paintings of Georgian artists. The museum has two permanent exhibitions: Archaeological Treasury and History of Nature collection. Archaeological Treasury holds 600 masterpieces of Georgian goldsmith work representing the development of Georgian culture between the 3rd millennium

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This gallery is one of the central exhibition spaces of the National Museum. The gallery will amaze you with its very high standard display of art and the unique and individual styles. It hosts the works of legendary Georgian artists such as Niko Pirosmani, Lado Gudiashvili, Elene Akhvlediani, and David Kakabadze and others. The gallery is also home to paintings and sculptures of many contemporary artists. The original baroque style building was designed by the famous German architect Albert Salzmann. It was modeled on Rome’s Pio Piacentini’s Exhibition Palace and built in 1888.

MUSEUM OF ARTS

1 Gudiashvili St. Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 299 99 09 The museum offers the permanent exhibition called the “Treasury of Christian Art”. The stunning Georgian goldsmith pieces featured date back to the 8th-19th centuries. Visitors will discover unique pieces of jewelry, icons, embroidery cloisonné and enamel. In addition to the permanent exhibition, there are two more with various temporary exhibits.

TBILISI HISTORY MUSEUM – “KARVASLA”

8 Sioni St. Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 298 22 81 www.facebook.com/Karvasla Group The museum presents artifacts from the end of the 4th millennium BC to the present day. The collection consists of archeological, ethnological and archival materials, as well as pieces of national and applied arts, and a rich photographic collection.

On the ground floor Karvasla offers the best choice of handmade artworks and gifts, natural

Georgian wine and delicacies in the heart of the old city, within one of the most beautiful & historical civil buildings of Tbilisi.

THE OPEN AIR MUSEUM OF ETHNOGRAPHY

1 Turtle Lake Road, Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 272 90 45 The museum is located on the west side of the “Turtle Lake” overlooking Tbilisi. It explores 14 areas presenting houses from various regions of Georgia. Together with its architectural monuments, the museum contains ethnographic materials like tools, textiles and ceramics as well as the basilica of Sioni — the building that dates back to the 5-6th centuries with a rich collection of carved gravestones. You will find a quaint Georgian restaurant where you can dine either indoors or on a porch with a great view.

centre of Tbilisi. The famous artist lived and worked in the early and mid 20th century here.

Visitors enjoy the unique atmosphere and enjoy viewing pictorial and graphic artworks, personal possessions, photographic exhibits and artwork by other contemporary artists.

ZURAB TSERETELI MUSEUM OF MODERN ART

27 Rustaveli Ave. Tel: +995 2 14 84 11; 298 60 04 www.momatbilisi.ge The museum complex was opened with a personal exhibition of the artist Zurab Tsereteli.

The exhibition includes all genres and stages of the artist’s creative life. Among the collection are pieces Tsereteli made in Brazil, France, Georgia, Russia and other countries. You can have a relaxed break at the luxurious restaurant adjacent to the Museum.

STATE MUSEUM OF SILK

6 Tsabadze St. Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 234 09 67 This is one of the world’s oldest silk museums, promoting the understanding and appreciation of silk, its production and use through exhibitions and educational programs. The museum has different types of mulberry herbaria, a collection of butterflies, materials showing the biology of worms, a collection of cocoons, samples of silk thread and Georgian and European textiles.

GEORGIAN STATE MUSEUM OF THEATRE, MUSIC, CINEMA AND CHOREOGRAPHY

6 Kargareteli St. Tel: +995 32 295 19 00 The museum comprises more than 300,000 exhibits of a fine art, photographic and literary nature, IRISH HALL hosts an exhibition of theatre and cinema costumes, unique exhibits of the 19th century, and pictorial canvases. GOLDEN HALL offers a costume collection including replica of an outfit worn by Georgian King Tamar, and costumes designed for different Georgian films.

NATIONAL CENTRE OF MANUSCRIPTS

1/3 M. Aleksidze St. Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 236 41 85 exb@manuscript.ac.ge www.manuscript.ge The Centre of Manuscripts is one of the most important depositories of old manuscript books and historical documents in Georgia. The centre operates a museum and conducts research.

SIGHNAGHI MUSEUM

8 Rustaveli Cul-de-sac, Sighnaghi, Georgia Tel: +995 32 223 24 48 The museum displays artifacts, including textiles, copper and wooden domestic items, agricultural instruments, goldsmith works, tools and musical instruments. It also contains a collection of coins, including ancient Sasanid Persian coins, and coins minted by Georgian monarchs Tamar, LashaGiorgi, and Erekle.

LADO GUDIASHVILI EXHIBITION HALL

11 L. Gudiashvili St. Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 293 23 05 The Exhibition Hall provides a permanent platform for visitors to view Lado Gudiashvili’s works, by providing temporary exhibitions of his heritage. In addition, the Exhibition Hall also hosts temporary exhibitions, lectures and seminars covering all aspects of contemporary art.

ELENE AKHVLEDIANI HOUSE-MUSEUM

7 Kiacheli St. Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 299 74 12 This evocative house museum located in the

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SAMTSKHE - JAVAKHETI MUSEUM

BAIA GALLERY

1 Kharischirashvili, Akhaltsikhe, Georgia Tel: +995 365 216 22

10 Chardin St. Tel: +995 275 45 10 www.baiagallery.ge

The museum holds ancient manuscripts, epigraphic and ethnographic material and photo documents on dispaly. More than 25 thousand artifacts are preserved in the museum’s collections. Works of Georgian lapidary (jewelworking) technique and woven carpets have an important place in this museum.

VANI ARCHEOLOGICAL MUSEUM-RESERVE

7 Vakhtang Gorgasali St. 1900, Vani, Georgia Tel: +995 32 299 80 22 The Vani Museum-Reserve with its scientific and educational programs is one of Georgia’s most valuable museums. Here you will be able to visit the archaeological site of Vani, the expedition base and the museum itself. Vani hosts annual international symposia on contemporary issues of history and archeology of the ancient Mediterranean region.

NIKO PIROSMANISHVILI STATE MUSEUM

29 Pirosmani St. Mirzaani Village, Kakheti, Georgia; Tel: +995 32 240 64 05 This legendary museum was the home of famous painter Niko Pirosmanishvili. His style is instantly recognizable and the museum contains some of his very valuable works together with the world famous lithograph of Pablo Picasso “Pirosmanishvili Portrait.”

NINO CHAKVETADZE’S TOUCHING PAINTINGS

Paintings by Nino Chakvetadze’s paintings are not only impressive but extremely happy and sad at the same time. Nino’s creative work takes its viewers on a trip down memory lane to the days of their childhood. The main characters drawn in each of her story are children. Nino has also done numerous illustrations for Children’s Books’ such as” Uncle Seva’s Stories”, “The Greek and Roman Myths”, “Montebusu or Elly’s Exceptional Trip”, “A journey to the Dreamland” “Father, Mother, Eight Kids and a Lorry”, etc. Nino’s Gallery will open very soon on Zandukeli Street in Tbilisi. No doubt it will turn into the favourite place not only for children but adult visitors as well.

We offer you to look at Nino’s touching children paintings for inspiration! www.ninochakvetadze.ge facebook.com/Nino Chakvetadze’s art

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VANDA GALLERY

14 D. Chonqadze St. Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 293 42 86 vandahobby@hotmail.com, www.vandagallery.com Gallery Vanda focuses on paintings, drawings, sculptures, applied arts and jewellery. The gallery’s range of activities includes various types of exhibitions, performances, presentations, competitions, new talent showcasing and charity events.

VERNISSAGE

K. Apkhazi st. 49 (former Leselidze st.) Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 299 88 08 Working hours: 7 days a week from 12:00 to 18:00 Vernissage27@gmail.com www.facebook.com/VernissageGallery LAGIDZE GALLERY

23 Paliashvili St. Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 214 72 51 lagidzegallery@gmail.com www.levan-lagidze.ge GALLERY CAMEO

11 Rkinis Rigi, Meidan, Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 272 48 72 www.gallerycameo.com

Working Hours: Monday - Friday 11:00-18:00, Saturday 12:00-18:00 Show room of Georgian traditional and cultural gifts offers rich collection of historical motives - jewelry, miniature sculpture and ceramics, high quality Georgian traditional crafts – textile, embroidery, woodcarving, knitting, metalwork, etc.

ART STUDIO LA MAISON BLEUE

94 Barnovi St. Tel: +995 32 2 35 99 41 / 2 23 21 16 facebook.com/La Maison Bleue

OAT GALLERY

14 Salami str. Tbilisi. Tel: +995 32 599 09 06 rusikooat@gmail.com www.facebook.com/oat gallery & art cafe 144 stairs

UNIQUE GEORGIAN CLOISONNÉ Georgia has one of the most significant collections in the world of cloisonné enamel handicraft. Most of it is protected in Georgian museums, but other important examples are in world-class museums, such as the Hermitage in St. Petersburg, the Berlin National Museum and the Metropolitan Museum in New York. This unique art form is distinguished by the richness and variety of enameled colour and design in which you experience Georgian elegance of medieval days.

In the 15th c. cloisonné enamel technology was lost, but now there is a revival of this unique creative work.

You may find the best cloisonné enamel jewellery at: CHARDIN ART GALLERY

Tbilisi Marriott Hotel. 13 Rustaveli Ave, Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 299 09 25 chardin.gallery@gmail. com www.artgallerychardin.com ORNAMENTAL ENAMEL GALLERY

7 Erekle II St. Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 298 90 13 www.enamelart.ge ART-GROUP “ISTORIALI”

7, Niko Nikoladze, 0108, Tbilisi, Georgia Tel. +995 32 2931335 istoriali@gaccgeorgia.org

You will find a wide variety of colours and designs in the beautiful Studio-Gallery “La Maison Bleue”, as well as practically everything that can be created with silk using techniques of batik, dying and quilting.

The studio also displays wall hangings, hand painted scarves, lampshades, screens, patchwork and has souvenirs for sale. The studio offers classes as well. This studio-gallery’s permanent exhibition is a unique place where you can view the process of working on silk, choose a nice piece, or order what you would like to be made and meet the artists.

“The Lure of The Orient” This beautiful book features unique, exotic Oriental paintings by Sofia Varazi of Tbilisi. The pictures are accompanied by simple ancient poems from Georgia and Persia in English, Georgian and Farsi calligraphy. The book is published by FT International and is distributed in Georgia

by Prospero’s Books and through Amazon.com For further information check the websites: www. thegeorgianonline.com or contact Sofia Varazi: varazi.sofia@gmail.com

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Georgia Homegrown

by Natia Montgomery One of your most memorable experiences in visiting Georgia will be the food. Heavily influenced by the co-existence of multi-cultures on the crossroads of Europe and Asia, your dining experiences will be adventures in exotic cuisine.

There is a dramatic difference between the various regional dishes, but they all come together in the capital city of Tbilisi which abounds in fine restaurants. Be prepared for overflowing tables of food noted for its astounding aftertaste and some of the best wines in the world. Calorie watchers beware; you will find it hard to resist these rich, tantalizing feasts.

Georgians are justifiably proud of their food and, as such, have designated many preparations as “national dishes” and they are masterpieces. Here are just a few samples.

Shkmeruli is one of the most popular dishes among tourists and locals alike. A roasted chicken, cut up and infused with garlic and spices in the oven in a ceramic dish called a “ketsi”. It arrives at the table so piping hot, even its airspace cannot be approached for several minutes. You have to be quick—once cool enough to handle, it will disappear in the twinkling of the eye.

Satsivi is a demonstration of the popularity of walnuts in Georgia which you will find in many

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recipes. This rich and creamy chicken or turkey dish will require much bread to be served on the side for “mopping up” as etiquette will prevent you from your desire to lick your plate.

Khinkali is a very different variation on the theme of ravioli. A spicy pork and beef meatball enclosed in a pasta-like sack. There is only one way to eat khinkali and that is an event unto itself. Your Georgian host or server will provide the proper instruction so as to get the most enjoyment from this very popular dish.

Chakhokhbili is Georgia’s version of chicken caccitore, a flavorful, very hot stew accented with coriander, dill and white wine. Again, much bread will be needed to prevent the urge to lick one’s plate.

If you are a fan of Chinese egg drop soup, Chikhirtma is a Georgian soup which takes it to another level. Whole chicken pieces, garlic, coriander and dill, precisely proportioned make this an unforgettable dish.

Finally, there is khachapuri, a cheese-filled bread the popularity of which in Georgia is similar to pizza in other countries. The three most popular varieties are Imeruli , Megruli and Acharuli and all of them are simply irresistible!

Whether you are dining in a fine restaurant or in the home of a welcoming Georgian household, you are going to be impressed by the abundance and variety of food and wine and that noted aftertaste that will have your palate crying out for more. Bon appetit!

DINING OUT RESTAURANTS AND CAFES

Georgian cuisine offers a variety of dishes that are specific to the country. These dishes include exotic herbs and spices and a mix of vegetarian and meat dishes: organic fresh meat like pork or lamb; chicken or fish; various sorts of cheese; eggplant; wild herbs; hot peppers and much, much more!

Georgia has many restaurants to suite all pockets and all tastes, and here is the recommended selection for you to enjoy. Treat yourselves and sample as many as possible!

TBILISI FUNICULAR COMPLEX Enjoy the best traditional Georgian food and amazing panoramic views of the city from the terraces. Here you will find a cosy bakery “Puri Guliani”, the Georgian brasserie “Chela”, a classic restaurant “Funicular”, sophisticated “Lounge-Bar” and elegant penthouse style “Function Suite”.

Mtatsminda plateau.

Tel: +995 32 298 00 00. www.funicular.ge

the 5th century style. The menu is a fusion of Georgian-European cuisine.

20 Orpiri. Tel: +995 32 290 41 41 www.hotel-citadel.ge PURIS SAKHLI (BREAD HOUSE) This traditional restaurant became very popular due to its large bread oven where pastry dishes are freshly made. The restaurant offers wide range of Georgian dishes and wines.

7 Gorgasali St. +995 32 230 30 30

NARIKALA HILL

DZVELI SAKHLI (OLD HOUSE)

The restaurant has one of the most beautiful settings in the city with its stunning views and roof terrace. The bar, furnishings and cutlery are elegantly retro ‘70s and the rear wall is true to

Restaurant offers delicious Georgian cuisine and displays unique customs and traditions accompanied by national dances and songs.

3 Sanapiro St. Tel: +995 32 292 34 97

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SHEMOIKHEDE GENATSVALE KHINKALI RESTAURANT CHAIN This restaurant is popular among both locals and tourists. The restaurant has three locations in Tbilisi and one in Betania (20 minute drive from Tbilisi).

5 Marjanishvili St; 25 Leselidze St., 7 Lekh-Katchinski St. Tbilisi and Betania.

Tel: +995 32 2 36 53 65 TSISKVILI (The Mill) The restaurant is distinguished by its unique architecture. There are a Georgian bakery for bread; a brazier for meat roasted on a spit, pork, chicken and trout; a mill for maize-bread of milled maize flour. A various kind of music is available: folk songs, pipes, urban melodies, violin, and the piano.

The right bank of the River Mtkvari Tel: +995 32 253 07 97 ART-CAFÉ 144 STAIRS Located on the hill under the walls of Narikala Fortress the café has a special view and is the favorite place for both locals and guests. Terrace in summer is overcrowded. The menu is a mix of Georgian and Mediterranean dishes.

Up the stair street from 27 Betlemi str.

Tel: +995 599 72 09 06

13 Taktakishvili, 19 Petriashvili , 7 Pekini, 78 Chavchavadze Ave., 68 Agmashenebeli Ave. +995 591 19 83 98 www.entree.ge CAFE AND RESTAURANT PUR PUR Pur pur is a distinguished place to spend a romantic evening. It overlooks the Gudiashvili Square with its balconies in blossom letting the sound of French music and jazz out in the evenings. Flowers decorate the walls and each of the table which is a truly original concept.

1 Gudiashvili st. Tel: +995 32 467 77 76 GABRIADZE CAFÉ-RESTAURANT Named after the famous Georgian puppeteer Rezo Gabriadze, the restaurant is a part of the next-door puppet theatre. The menu is modern Georgian cuisine.

13 Shavteli St. +995 32 298 65 94 PROSPERO’S BOOKS & CALIBAN’S COFFEE SHOP Both bookshop and café, is ideal place for working and having lunch. The bookshop sells titles in English and Georgian, including a lot of books in English about Georgia, its culture and the Caucasus. The café serves freshly ground coffee and has a wide selection of teas.

34, Rustaveli Av. Tel: +995 32 292 35 92 www.prosperosbookshop.com AMO RAME Amo Rame cafe-gallery is a very cozy and quiet place close to the Freedom Square. During the day time the café is a perfect place for business meetings. It is full in the evenings as well despite its nonsmoking policy. Weekends are especially crowded due to the genuine Mtiuluri Khinkali (meat dumplings from highlands) made by the invited cook.

4, Pavle Ingorokva St. Tel: +995 593 39 40 15 BOOK CORNER

LITERATURULI CAFÉ A very cosy café that also sells books. You feel like in a 1960s family kitchen having freshly-made cakes with tea and coffee.

2, Tarkhnishvili St. Tel: +995 32 222 51 33 ENTRÉE The range and quality of croissants, tartelettes and confectionaries is respectable enough to grace a Parisian patisserie. Fresh soup, salads, baguettes, wraps and hot pastries, all for eating in or take away.

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A small, one of a kind art-café is a perfect venue with friendly people and unique pastoral charm for spending your time in a warm and comfortable atmosphere. Café is located in Vera district, close to Philarmonic Concert Hall.

13B, Tarkhnishvili str. Tel: +995 32 2 232430 +995 577 46 83 88 www.bookcorner.ge O, MODA, MODA When you walk into the O, Moda, Moda Cafe garden, you find yourself in a charming garden. It is one of the very few cafes in Tbilisi where smoking

inside is not allowed. The cafe’s air is filled with the aroma of freshly baked cakes. There is no fried food on the menu except for fried chicken used for chicken salad and neither industrial-made soft drinks nor colas. O, Moda, Moda is perfect for relaxing in a hot summer night.

64 Barnovi St. +995 32 243 00 41

MTSKHETA The new restaurant “Mtskheta” has banquet halls, booths and lounges opened onto the Aragvi river bank. The restaurant offers both Georgian and European cuisine accompanied by live music.

Tsitsamuri area and Jvari Monastery.

Tel: +995 577 40 04 53

BATUMI MEGRUL - LAZURI Megrul-Lazuri offers an opportunity to try different Georgian dishes. A traditional Ajarian house, a terrace and a wooden cottage are placed together in an inner yard.

16 Tbilisi Highway, Makhinjauri.

Tel: +995 422 25 30 66 UP & DOWN The restaurant is distinguished by its original and surprising interior. It offers not only Georgian, but also Lazian and European cuisine accompanied by live music.

Khimshiashvili St. (Near Ardagani lake).

Tel: +995 599 96 63 73 PIAZZA SQUARE One of the most beautiful squares in Georgia, Piazza, houses La Brioche, Quiet Woman, Marco Polo – three café-restaurants, each with different concept.

25 ParnavazMepe St. Tel: +995 592 31 00 66

CAFÉ FAN-FAN The café is distinguished by its original design and specific atmosphere. In summer, outside terrace is a favourite place to meet friends and enjoy delicious food. You will be treated by live music (usually jazz) on most of the occasions.

27 Ninoshvilist. Tel: +995 591 15 00 51

TELAVI B&B AND CAFÉ MARLETA The owners of cheese farm, Sophia and Levan gave Kakheti wine region a new dimension by producing different sorts of cheese and having created a stylish café-restaurant Marleta in the historic town of Telavi.

Named after the family cow MARLETA, the caférestaurant is unique for its original design and nice atmosphere. In summer, the outside terrace is open for guests. The menu features fresh, quality ingredients combined with exotic flair. MARLETA is open for lunch, dinner, coffee and drinks.

Recently opened Marleta’s Bed & Breakfast with a terrace offers a spectacular view of Telavi, the Caucasus Mountains and Alazani Valley. The B&B has en suite bathrooms and free WI-FI throughout.

13 Bagrationi St. Tel: +995 577 72 27 71 cafemarleta@gmail.com

PRIVET IZ BATUMA A favourite place for busy visitors and locals. A good location, busy and suitable for lunch and dinner with friends.

25 M.Abashidze St. Tel: +995 422 27 77 66 GHELE-GHURDANI The restaurant is surrounded by serene centuryold trees. It is a nice place to escape from urban city life and have delicious dishes with friends and family members in a beautiful green environment.

Village Zeda Jotcho, Khelvachauri region Tel: +995 55 72 33

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WHERE TO STAY IN GEORGIA Georgia has a wide range of hotels and guest houses. Here is a list of big hotels located in Tbilisi, mountain resorts and administrative centers in different regions of Georgia.

If you are looking for rural accommodation or farm stays, it is better to make reservation through travel agencies or associations. Whatever type of accommodation you go for around Tbilisi, you can usually expect excellent hospitality!

TBILISI HOLIDAY INN TBILISI This magnificent 21-storey glass building used to be the symbol of the city during the Soviet era.

Following its transformation, today Holiday Inn Tbilisi accommodates guests in 252 standard, business and executive guest rooms. You will enjoy a wealth of modern amenities, yet there remains a wonderful timeless atmosphere combined with highly personalized attentive service.

1, 26 May sq. Tel: +995 32 230 00 99 info@hi-tbilisi.com www.hi-tbilisi.com RADISSON BLU IVERIA HOTEL Radisson Blue is the most stylish and elegant address in Tbilisi where freshness and modern come together in every room. Comfort and luxury greet guests with the most impressive event facilities in Tbilisi.

1 Rose Revolution sq. Tel: +995 32 240 22 00 info.tbilisi@radissonblu.com www.radissonblu.com/hotel-tbilisi TBILISI MARRIOTT HOTEL Located in the city’s cultural and business centre Tbilisi Marriott Hotel offers luxurious accommodation with 127 spacious guest rooms.

The hotel is known for its large event venues and first-class catering, offering a ballroom for over 250 guests. It is a perfect place for business

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meetings, conferences and banquets.

13 Rustaveli Ave. Tel: +995 32 277 92 00 Tbilisi.marriott@marriotthotels.com www.TbilisiMarriott.com CITADINES Centrally located in the Freedom Square, Citadines is the first apartment hotel in Georgia combines the relaxing atmosphere of a spacious apartment with flexible services.

4 Freedom sq. Tel: +995 32 254 70 30 tbilisi.fs@citadines.com www.citadines.info-tbilisi.com BETSY’S HOTEL Beautifully decorated boutique hotel overlooks the cente of Tbilisi. The exceptional combination of the hotel’s Georgian and foreign identity has produced a lively and graceful atmosphere in a unique environment.

32-34 Makashvili St., Tel.: +995 32 293 14 04 info@betsyshotel.com www.betsyshotel.com COURTYARD TBILISI The Courtyard by Marriott Tbilisi offers visitors a grand view into Georgian culture with its fabulous location at Freedom Square. 118 spacious guest rooms feature many amenities including oversized work areas. Dine at La Brasserie, which serves international cuisine and remarkable Georgian wines. The Health Club offers top equipment, sauna, indoor pool and Jacuzzi for unwinding after meetings or sightseeing.

4 Freedom sq. Tel: +995 32 277 91 00 courtyard. tbilisi@marriotthotels.com www.courtyardtbilisi.com

GUDAURI

KOPALA

Tel: +995 32 251 07 70 info@carpediem.ge www.carpediem.ge

8/10 Chekhov St. Avlabari Tel: +995 32 277 55 20 hotel@kopala.ge www.kopala.ge CITADEL NARIKALA 20 Orpiri, Avlabari Tel: +995 32 290 41 41 office@hotel-citadel.ge www.hotel-citadel.ge VILLA MTIEBI Villa Mtiebi is located in old Tbilisi within walking distance of the city centre. The hotel design is a unique blend of old Georgian and modern European styles.

10 Chakhrukhadze St. Tel: +995 32 292 03 40 Tbilisi@hotelmtiebi.ge www.hotelmtiebi.ge BEAUMOND 11 Chavchavadze Tel: +995 32 253 20 16 info@ beaumondgarden.ge www.beaumondgarden.ge

CARPE DIEM

GUDAURI HUT Tel: +995 595 93 99 11 gudaurihut@gmail.com www.gudaurihut.com TRUSO Tel: +995 32 214 69 00 info@hoteltruso.com www.hoteltruso.com MARCO POLO Tel: +995 32 2 202 900 reservation@hotelgudauri.com www.hotelgudauri.com PANORAMA Tel: +995 599 900 800 info@skihouse-panorama.com www.skihouse-panorama.com

OLD METEKHI 3 Metekhi St. Tel: +995 32 274 74 04 oldmetekhi@yahoo.com www.oldmetekhi.ge OLD TIFLIS BOUTIQUE HOTEL Charming and elegant Boutique hotel situated right in the center of old Tbilisi attracts customers with it unique location and rooms with stylish decor. Cosy roof top terrace cafe makes hotel exceptional for its uncomparable views over the sulphur bathes and the city’s main attractions. it is the right spot where the city was founded centuries ago by the King Vakhtang Gorgasali....

Tbilisi Started Here!

3/9 Grishashvii Street, Tbilisi 0105, Georgia.

Tel: 995 322 319999, 995 598 250 234, for reservations please contact: reservations@tiflis.ge

BAKURIANI APOLLON 21, Agmashenebeli St. Tel: +995 599 57 11 08 info@apollon.ge www.apollon.ge GRYSTAL Tel: +995 367 24 03 76 crystaldidveli@yahoo.com www.hotelcrystal.ge.

PREMIER PALACE 9, Dodo Abashidze St Tel: +995 591 196 500 office@premierpalace.ge www.premierpalace.ge VERE PALACE BAKURIANI 12, Tsakadze st. Tel: +995 32 298 35 65 courage57@mail.ru www.verepalacebak.ge VILA VITA 36, Mta St. Tel: +995 509 39 77 71 vilavita@mail.ru www.vilavita.ge VILLA PALACE 1, Tsakadze St. Tel: +995 595 90 11 44 info@villapalace.ge www.villapalace.ge TRIALETI PALACE 1, Trialeti St. Tel: +995 32 96 98 90

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Rooms Hotels – Upscale Design Hotels in Tbilisi & Kazbegi Designed to inspire your senses It is hard to imagine a more spectacular setting for a hotel – with full frontage onto Mount Kazbeg –or a more sublime meeting of style, substance and luxury. Not surprisingly visitors to this region, and specifically to Rooms Hotel, invariably name it as a highlight of their visit to Georgia.

The stylish Rooms Hotel with its panoramic mountain views represents a new and exciting dimension for this region. The immense open areas within the hotel have panoramic windows to ensure that even while you are cosy and private in this internal space, you also have a sense of being part of the spectacular scenery outside. The great snow-topped Mount Kazbeg is directly within your line of sight, while the Tsminda Sameba Monastery is miraculously perched high up on one of the intermittent mountain ranges.

There are l56 spacious, gracious rooms equipped with all modern amenities. The vast communal spaces within the Rooms Hotel are lined with bookshelves stocked to capacity with carefully selected titles that impress as an unique and charming library. Also on the ground floor is a casino, a sauna and a 20 metre long heated pool which overlooks the rugged mountain landscape.

There is instant free Wi-Fi throughout, while all rooms have an impressive range of international TV channels viewable on wide screen televisions.

You can wander outside onto an enormous terrace elegantly provisioned with loungers.

Once inside, the international cuisine served by the hotel’s stylish restaurant can be savoured while seated on specially designed, extremely comfortable wooden furniture.

This special attention given to design and detail can also be seen on the exterior of the hotel.

The façade is decorated with wood and metal partitions that divide the rooms and balconies into the vertical and horizontal lines that give the entire building a simple, geometric look. The use of natural materials is continued on the interior to create a “mountain hotel” look, while providing maximum comfort and a cosy atmosphere.

Cosiness – almost a “home away from home” feel – is unexpectedly achieved in the large open spaces by filling them with vintage carpets, lounging sofas, armchairs, bookshelves, etc. The sole materials used are wood, steel and brick, which retain a continuity and simplicity throughout the interior and give sense of focus to these details.

The overall impact is so relaxing and peaceful that you may not even want to venture outside, but

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Rooms Hotel also offers recreational activities including quad bike tours while bicycles are available to rent. Horse riding, jeep tours and paragliding can also be arranged.

Rooms Hotel has now also opened in Tbilisi–and has quickly become a focal point for a new wave of intellectuals, artists and designers who are slowly reclaiming the capital’s Vera district as a local cultural hub for the 21st century.

The moment you step into the hotel your visual senses are amplified. Every little detail is carefully thought of and complements the bohemian-chic atmosphere.

This feast for the senses continues in the cuisine where only the freshest, seasonal produce of the best quality is used. All the produce utilized at Rooms Hotel Tbilisi is sustainably grown, locally farmed and wildly foraged.

Contact at: +995 32 2020099 (reception); +995 32 2730099 (for reservations); +995 32 2020002 (restaurant – the kitchen) and visit website: www.roomshotels.com

ROOMS HOTEL KAZBEGI AND TBILISI both became official members of Design Hotels™ in 2014,bringing together the world’s most innovative, outstanding and progressive hotel concepts under one umbrella brand. Today Design Hotels™ represents and markets a curated collection of more than 250 independent hotels in over 40 countries across the globe. Over the years, Design Hotels™ has blossomed into a global lifestyle brand that is synonymous with distinctive architecture and interior design balanced with functionality and exceptional service. And now a Design Hotels™ member can welcome you to Georgia!

Whether you are a design aficionado, a traveller with a penchant for uniquely styled interiors, or just an ordinary tourist unwilling to compromise on comfort and quality, Rooms Hotel in both Tbilisi and Kazbegi will unquestionably hit the right note. Long after you have left these extraordinary spaces, they will linger with you in memory with a whisper that a return visit – sooner rather than later – must always be on the cards.

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KAKHETI CHATEAU MERE Just in 1.15 hour (90km/56miles) drive East from Tbilisi, you will find a unique Chateau Mere — castle with four pointed towers and wood paneled balconies. Two suites on rooftop, twelve standard rooms and a family suite — with a panoramic view of gorgeous Caucasus Mountains and Alazani Valley feature antique furniture and offer modern comforts.

To accommodate diverse interests of its guests Chateau Mere complex comprises a winery, a restaurant, a big conference hall, an outside swimming pool and open-air jacuzzi on the roof with a gorgeous view of Caucasus Mountains and the Alazani Valley.

Chateau Mere arranges tastings of the Winiveria fine dry red and white wines from Georgian endemic grape varieties.

15 Vardisubani, Telavi Region Tel: +995 595 99 03 99; +995 595 99 03 90 mailbox@mere.ge www.mere.ge KVARELI EDEN HOTEL & WINE SPA The hotel & wine spa offers unique facilities at the Wine Therapy and Spa Centre. The hotel itself has spacious rooms with fabulous views of the mountains, vineyards. It is also a good place for business meetings and conferences.

87a, Aghmashenebeli St. Kvareli Tel.: +995 32 2970165/64 info@kvarelieden.ge www.kvarelieden.ge LOPOTA RESORT Lopota hotel and its nature friendly environment is ideal place for long week-ends and family vacations or corporate events.

Lopota Lake, Napareuli village, Telavi Tel: +995 32 91 700 777 +995 591 14 94 94 info@lopota.ge www.lopota.ge ROYAL BATONI The hotel is located in Kvareli town, by Ilia’s Lake, an hour and half (146km) drive from Tbilisi.

Royal Batoni has 27 standard and 4 suits rooms, restaurant with an open bar and a terrace facing the Ilia’s Lake, conference hall, open swimming pool with a magnificent view of the lake, a cigar room and entertainment room.

The mixture of unique nature, architecture,

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dazzling views and high quality service, creates the best possible atmosphere both for leisure and business occasions. It offers a calming and comforting environment for a relaxing vacation.

Ilia lake, Kvareli region Tel.: +995 595 99 66 11, +995 595 99 66 00 info@batoni.ge www.royalbatoni.ge TWINS WINE CELLAR This is a special delightful agritourism winery in Napareuli. The winery is named after the identical twin brothers who own the winery. The large dining area is close to Qvevri circles on the floor.

Napareuli vill. Tel: +995 32 222 74 26 info@cellar.ge www.cellar.ge

Tsinandali Village Shorena and Niko Nikolaishvili + 995 599 26 02 15; + 995 350 23 52 00

Facebook/Niko Nikolaishvili 72

IMERETI TSKALTUBO PLAZA Newly constructed hotel “Tskaltubo Plaza� in 11 km from Kutaisi, 145 km from Batumi and 244 km from Tbilisi, offers a modern, comfortable environment and services to its guests. The hotel is situated on the central square of the Tskaltubo resort, close to famous balneology centres. It offers 76 rooms. The hotel restaurant has a terrace for 30 people. This is a perfect place for weddings and events.

15a Rustaveli Street, Tskaltubo Tel.: +995 436 222 393 +995 436 2208 08; +995 595 085 075 info@tph.ge www.tskaltuboplaza.ge SAIRME SPA Located south of the major city of Kutaisi, 950 m above sea level, Sairme Spa with 150 spacious rooms offers comfortable recreational areas, spa centre, restaurant and a conference hall.

Tel.: +995 32 240 45 45 info@sairme.com.ge www.sairme.com.ge ARGO 8a Rustaveli Av. Tskaltubo spa resort Tel: +995 595 50 90 19 hotargo@gmail.com www.hotelargo.ge

IMERETI 8, Tsereteli Av. Tskaltubo spa resort Tel: +995 436 22 11 22; +995 597 91 84 22 imeretihotel@gmail.com www.hotelimereti.ge

SAMTSKHE-JAVAKHETI BORJOMI PALACE Borjomi resort This four-star hotel caters for discerning visitors with 49 comfortable rooms. The Medical Centre is a unique feature of this hotel. Here specialist consultants are available in every field of modern medical practice.

Tel.: +995 32 243 00 31 reservation@borjomipalace.ge www.bph.ge GINO Wellness Rabath The hotel offers Classic, Lux, Classic family and Apartment Lux rooms. It also provides with a conference room, bar and restaurant, the terrace and a wellness-spa centre.

1, Kharichashvili Str. Akhaltsikhe Tel: +995 322 19 29 39 info@gino.ge www.gino.ge

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BATUMI RADISSON BLU HOTEL The Radisson Blu hotel is ideal for those wanting to relax or energize using both the outdoor and indoor pool, health club and spa.

Blending minimalistic design with rich details and floor-to-ceiling windows with panoramic views of the Black Sea. 1 Ninoshvili St. Tel:+995 422 25 55 55 info.batumi@radissonblu.com www.radissonblu.com SHERATON BATUMI HOTEL The Sheraton Batumi hotel with its stunning 110 m tower is the tallest building on the Black Sea coast. 202 guest rooms include 26 suites. Whether you are travelling for business or pleasure, the fresh and airy rooms offer everything you need.

28 Rustaveli St. Tel: +995 422 22 90 00 info.batumi@sheraton.com www.sheratonbatumi.com INTOURIST PALACE The hotel is located in the Batumi centre, opposite the beautiful evergreen sea side boulevard on the Black Sea coast, 100 m away from the beach.

11 Ninoshvili St. Tel: +995 577 947720 info@intouristpalace.com www.intouristpalace.com PRESIDENT PLAZA HOTEL Enjoy an ideal location right in the Batumi city centre, just 5 minute walk from Batumi Boulevard at President Plaza Hotel! It offers its guests a choice of 35 stylish, comfortable, spacious and quality rooms and excellent public transport links.

17 Baratashvili St. Tel: +995 422 27 69 50 info@presidentplaza.ge www.presidentplaza.ge PIAZZA BATUMI Piazza Hotel is a combination of different styles and unique ideas. It offers 16 rooms decorated in eight interior styles.

25, Parnavaz Mepe St. Tel: +995 597 88 23 21 info@piazza.ge www.piazza.ge BATUMI WORLD PALACE The hotel is situated in the central part of Old Batumi, close to the newly developed Miracle Park. It offers a terrace restaurant with specific

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taste of the Turkish and Georgian cuisine.

2, Melashvili St. Tel: +995 422 22 57 90 natya@batumiworldpalace.com www.batumiworldpalace.com CHAO A 3-star-hotel in the centre of Batumi, near Dolphinarium and Nuri Lake, the hotel offers continental breakfast and excursion programmes.

75 Gorgiladze St. Tel: +995 422 22 24 00 info@hotelchao.ge www.hotelchao.ge GALOGRE The hotel is located in the old part of Batumi, next to Piazza Square. The bar and the restaurant on top floor have a stunning view of the Batumi seaport and the mountain.

8 Gorgasali St. Tel: +995 422 27 48 45 info@hotelgalogre.com www.hotelgalogre.com GEORGIA PALACE HOTEL in Kobuleti Just over twenty minutes drive from Batumi, you will find ice hotel with 156 comfortable rooms, available all year round. Guest rooms and suites with private balconies open up to wonderful views of the sea, the surrounding mountains and/ or the beautiful park.

275 Aghmashenebeli St. Kobuleti Tel: +995 32 224 24 00 info@gph.ge www.gph.ge

SVANETI CHUBU 17, Erekle Parjiani Str. Mestia Tel: (+995 599) 80 00 27 info@svanetihotels.com www.svanetihotels.com GUESTHOUSE “GRAND HOTEL USHBA�

Tvebishi Vill. Mestia. Tel: +995 598 59 99 30 www.grandhotelushba.com MESTIA 27, Seti Sq. Mestia Tel: +995 577 72 12 11 www.hotelmestia.ge SVANETI 5, Tamar Mephe St. Mestia Tel: +995 551 463512 www.hotelsvaneti.ge TETNULDI 9, Margiani St. Mestia. Tel: +995 790 12 33 44 i nfo@tetnuldi.ge www.tetnuldi.ge

ROOMS HOTEL KAZBEGI AND TBILISI both became official members of Design Hotels™ in 2014,bringing together the world’s most innovative, outstanding and progressive hotel concepts under one umbrella brand. Today Design Hotels™ represents and markets a curated collection of more than 250 independent hotels in over 40 countries across the globe. Over the years, Design Hotels™ has blossomed into a global lifestyle brand that is synonymous with distinctive

architecture and interior design balanced with functionality and exceptional service. And now a Design Hotels™ member can welcome you to Georgia!

Whether you are a design aficionado, a traveller with a penchant for uniquely styled interiors, or just an ordinary tourist unwilling to compromise on comfort and quality, Rooms Hotel in both Tbilisi and Kazbegi will unquestionably hit the right note. Long after you have left these extraordinary spaces, they will linger with you in memory with a whisper that a return visit – sooner rather than later – must always be on the cards.

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DATABASE GEOGRAPHY Georgia is a small country of 69 700 km² with an ancient history and rich cultural traditions. It is situated at the crossroads of Europe and Asia where East meets West, between the Black and the Caspian Seas, and to the south of the Great Caucasus Mountain Range. It shares borders with the Russian Federation to the north, Turkey and Armenia to the south and Azerbaijan to the east.

Georgia has a population of 4.6 million people including other nationalities: Armenians – 8%, Azeris – 6%, Russians – 5% and Greeks – 2%. The capital city is Tbilisi with 1.2 million inhabitants.

CLIMATE The climate is extremely diverse for the comparatively small footprint of the country.

Climate zones range from the humid subtropical on the coast to the eternal snow peaks of the mountains, from a moderately humid Mediterranean-type climate to a dry continental climate. Winters in the Caucasus can be very cold with sufficient snow to make skiing and related sports very popular with visitors and the Georgians alike. The most comfortable seasons for visiting Georgia are spring and autumn.

In mid-summer Tbilisi and the surrounding countryside can be very hot. However, summer is the best time to travel to the highlands since in some areas roads are closed by snow from early autumn until late spring.

LANGUAGE The official language is Georgian with its own alphabet, which is one of the 14 alphabets of the world. Most traffic signs and markers along the main roads are written in both Georgian and English.

RELIGION Most ethnic Georgians belong to the Georgian Orthodox Church. However, the country is also known for its tolerance for other religions.

Other minority faiths practiced include Roman Catholicism, Armenian Gregorian, Protestantism, Judaism and Islam.

NATIONAL HOLIDAYS January 1 – New Year’s Day January 7 – Orthodox Christmas

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January 19 – Orthodox Epiphany/Baptism March 3 – Mother’s Day March 8 – Women’s Day April 9 – National Unity Day April 12, 2015 – Orthodox Easter April 13, 2015 – Orthodox Easter Monday 9 May – Victory Day 26 May – Independence Day 28 August – Assumption of the Virgin Mary 14 October – Day of Svetitskhoveli Cathedral (Mtskheta) 23 November – Saint George’s Day TIME ZONE GMT + 4:00 CURRENCY The national “Lari” (GEL) is the only legal form of tender in Georgia. Payments in the countryside are generally in cash. Most shops, hotels and supermarkets in the capital take credit cards.

Currency exchange centres operate in large towns and ATMs can be found near banks or supermarkets.

1 EUR = 2.24 GEL; 1 USD = 1.85 GEL (as of January 2015). Current exchange rates are available at www.tbc.ge or www.bog.ge.

PHONING HOME Most hotels/guesthouses provide international telephone communications. You can get a Georgian SIM card at the offices of Geocell Tel: +995 577 45 90 89 / www.geocell.ge; MAGTI Tel: +995 32 217 00 00 / www.magtigsm.com; and Beeline Tel: +995 32 220 06 11 / www.beeline.ge.

Mobile operators cover almost the whole country, with the exception of some high mountain regions.

Nowadays almost every town in Georgia has Internet access. There are Wi-Fi zones in many cafes, hotels and squares in Tbilisi and Batumi that enable visitors to use free Internet.

PHONING WITHIN GEORGIA The country code is +995 and the area code for Tbilisi is 32. Phone numbers in Tbilisi have 7 digits and start with the number 2 (e.g. 2XX XX XX). In the countryside all numbers have 6 digits. Mobile numbers start with 5.

To call from a landline within Tbilisi to another number in the city just dial 7 digits (2XX XX XX).

To call from a landline within Georgia to another number in another city dial 0, the regional code and then the 6 digits.

To call from a mobile to a fixed line phone in Tbilisi dial 0, the city code (32) and then the 7 last digits (2XX XX XX).

To call from a mobile to a fixed line phone in another city dial 0, the city code and then the 6 last digits.

To call from home to mobile dial 0 5XX XX XX XX. From mobile to mobile dial 5XX XX XX. POWER SUPPLY 220 volts AC, 50 Hz. European-type, two-pin plugs are used.

EMERGENCIES We hope you will have a safe and enjoyable vacation in Georgia. However, it is comforting to know that if you run into problems help is not far away. In an emergency, hotel reception desk staff will contact their representative doctor. IMSS (International Medical Support Services) have full ambulance services at their disposal. A helicopter rescue service is available at any time of the day, Tel: (+995) 32 292 09 28. The following medical centres can be contacted in Tbilisi: Gudushauri National Medical Center at 18/20 Lubliana Street, Tel: (+995) 32 251 87 15; David Tatishvili Medical Center, 8 Abuladze Street, Tel: +995 32 291 32 42; and Mediclab Georgia 2 Armisuli st. Tel: +995 32 225 19 91.

WATER Tap water is safe in most places, although many famous mineral waters (still or carbonated) are very popular including Borjomi, Nabeglavi, Likani, Sno and Sairme. Local spring waters are known to have curative properties.

SHOPPING AND SOUVENIRS Georgian jewellery, ceramics and embroidery are all distinctive, and may be bought in art salons or special tourist shops. Visitors are likely to develop a taste for Georgian wines and brandies. Antiques such as rugs and icons incur export duty and must be licensed for export by the Ministry of Culture.

Shops are usually open from 10 am to 6 pm, Monday to Saturday. Some are open on Sunday.

The main shopping streets in Tbilisi are Rustaveli, Chavchavadze and Gamsakhurdia. It is important to cross the road using the underpasses, which also house charming souvenir shops. New shopping malls have also opened in Tbilisi including GTC, Megaline, Karvasla, DPlaza and

Tbilisi Mall. High-quality art shops, galleries and exhibition halls can be found in Vake and Vera districts and in the streets around Sioni Cathedral, which have been restored and renovated to create attractive traffic-free areas for relaxation.

CALCULATING COST Since there is a diversity of hotels, it is best to check with Tourist Information Centres or your host tour operator if you wish to budget exactly.

There is a standardized 10% service charge included in your bill (which saves the bother of tipping for everything) and VAT is set at 18%.

However, foreign tourist services are exempt from VAT. You’ll also need some extra money to cover meals not included in the tour price such as optional sightseeing, souvenirs and items of a personal nature such as laundry.

GROCERY SHOPPING Supermarkets are often located in city centres; they stock both local and imported goods and operate 24 hours a day.

The hypermarkets Goodwill, Smart and Carrefour are located at various locations in Tbilisi; they offer a great variety of food, wine, spirits and general items. Every town in the countryside has small grocery shops with delicious seasonal fresh fruits and vegetables.

POSTAL SERVICES “Georgian Post”, the State-appointed postal operator, provides good quality service through the largest network across the country. Domestic money transfers and transfers to a number of foreign countries can easily be arranged. There are telegraph services to regional and rural centres and all telephone and internet services are arranged at the Post Office.

International express courier services are efficiently arranged at the Post Office through: DHL Tel: (+995) 32 269 60 60 / info@dhl.ge / www.dhl.com FedEx Tel: (+995) 32 274 82 40 / fedexge@post.ge / www.fedEx.com TNT Tel: (+995) 32 225 03 28 / www.TNT.ge Meridian Express (UPS) Tel: (+995) 32 218 01 44 / info@mex.ge www.ups.com HEALTH CARE There are numerous established and reliable pharmacies in Tbilisi and in the other cities of Georgia. It is advisable to buy medication at large pharmacies such as Aversi, PSP and GPC. There are no mandatory vaccinations.

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Georgia Georgia Georgia

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Georgia Georgia Georgia

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IN GEORGIA

A

BASSIE EM S

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CONSUL AT D E N

Israel 61Agmashenebeli Ave. 0102 Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 2 964 457 press@tbilisi.mfa.gov.il www.tbilisi.mfa.gov.il Republic of Italy 3a Chitadze St. 0108 Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 299 64 18 embassy.tbilisi@esteri.it www.ambtbilisi.esteri.it Japan 7 d Krtsanisi St. 0114 Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 275 21 11 protocol@embjapan.ge www.ge.emb-japan.go.jp

Armenia 4 Tetelashvili St. Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 295 94 43 armemb@caucasus.net www.georgia.mfa.am

France 49 Krtsanisi St., 0114 Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 272 14 90 ambafrance@access.sanet.ge www.ambafrance-ge.org

Azerbaijan 2nd bl. Kipshidze St., #1 Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 225 35 26 tbilisi@mission.mfa.gov.az www.azembassy.ge

Germany 20 Telavi Str.. 0103 (Sheraton Metechi Pa lace Hotel) Tel: +995 32 244 73 00 info@tifl.diplo.de www.tiflis.diplo.de

Brazil Chanturia St., 6/2 Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 293 24 19 brasemb.tbilisi@itamaraty.gov. br Bulgaria Gorgasali St., lane #30 Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 291 01 94 embassy.tbilisi@mfa.bg China 52 Barnov St., 0179 Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 232 286; chinaemb_ge@mfa.gov.ge www.ge.chineseembassy.org Czech 37 Chavchavadze Ave., Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 291 67 40/41 tbilisi@embassy.mzv.cz www.mzv.cz Estonia 4 Likhauri St., 0171 Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 365 122 tbilisisaatkond@mfa.ee www.tbilisi.vm.ee

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Greece 40 Razmadze St. Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 2914 970 gremb.tbi@mfa.gr www.greekembassy.ge Holy See Vatican 40 Zhgenti St. Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 53 76 01 nuntius@access.sanet.ge Hungary 83 Lvov St. 0160 Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 239 90 08 mission.tbs@mfa.gov.hu www.mfa.gov.hu/emb/tbilisi

Kazakhstan 23 Shatberashvili St. Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 299 76 84 dmkazaida@inbox.ru Latvia 16 Akhmeta st. Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 224 48 58 embassy.georgia@mfa.gov.lv Lithuania 25 Tengiz Abuladze St. Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 291 29 33 amb.ge@urm.lt ge.mfa.lt Netherlands Sheraton Metechi Palace Hotel, Telavi St. #20 Tel: +995 32 227 62 00 tbi@minbuza.nl www.dutchembassy.ge Poland 19 Zubalashvili St. Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 292 03 98 tbilisi.amb.sekretariat@msz. gov.pl www.tbilisi.msz.gov.pl

Iran 80 Chavchavadze Ave. Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 291 36 56/58 iranemb@geo.net.ge

Qatar Room 522, Tbilisi Marriott Hotel 13 Rustaveli Ave. Tel: +995 32 277 9196 tbilisi@mofa.gov.qa

Republic of Iraq 16 Kobuleti st. Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 290 793 iraqiageoemb@yahoo.com

Romania 7 Lvovi St. Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 238 53 10 roembtbl@caucasus.net

Slovakia 85 I.Abashidze St. Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 222 44 37 emb.tbilisi@mzv.sk Sweden 15 Kipshidze St. Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 255 03 20 ambassaden.tbilisi@sida.se Switzerland 11 Krtsanisi St. 0114 Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 275 30 01/02 tif.vertretung@eda.admin.ch vertretung@tif.rep.admin.ch www.eda.admin.ch/tbilisi Turkey 35 Chavchavadze Ave. 0162 Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 225 20 72 embassy.tbilisi@mfa.gov.tr; www.tbilisi.emb.mfa.gov.tr Ukraine 75 Oniashvili St. Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 231 11 61 emb_ge@mfa.gov.ua www.georgia.mfa.gov.ua United Kingdom 51 Krtsanisi St. 0144 Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 227 47 47 british.embassy.tbilisi@fco.gov.uk www.ukingeorgia.fco.gov.uk

United States 11 Balanchivadze St. 0131 Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 227 70 00 askconsultbilisi@state.gov www.usembassy.ge

Consulates in Georgia Azerbaijan 14 Dumbadze St. Batumi Tel: +995 422 27 67 00 batumi@mission.mfa.gov.az www.azembassy.ge Armenia 16 Apt. 32 Gogebashvili St. Batumi Tel: +995 32 95 94 43 www.armenianembassy.ge Denmark GTM plaza,#4 Freedom Sq. Tbilisi Tel: +995 77 74 40 01 Esben.Emborg@gmail.com Estonia 39 Vazha Pshavela St. Batumi Tel: +995 32222 27 09 10 batumiconsulate@gmail.com Finland 3 Chitadze St. 0108. Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 224 544 arondeli@gfsis.org

Ireland 31 Makashvili St. Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 292 16 70 Norway 20 Abasheli st. Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 229 09 79 lianahaerum@dsl.ge Philippine 9 Takaishvilli St. Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 222 45 44 phconsul@gol.ge Swiss Confederation’s Russian Federation Interests Section 51 Chavchavadze Ave. Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 291 26 45 RussianEmbassy@caucasus.net Spain 29 Abashidze St., Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 2 35 58 35 Mariavictoria.scola@maec.es; Turkey 8 M.Abashidze St. Batumi Tel: +995 422 27 47 90 turkemb@mfa.gov.tr www.tbilisi.emb.mfa.gov.tr Ukraine 71 Melikishvili St.Batumi.

Tel: +995 442 23 16 00 emb_ge@mfa.gov.ua www.georgia.mfa.gov.ua

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THE GEORGIAN

International Missions in Georgia Asian Development Bank (ADB) 1 G. Tabidze St., 4th Fl., 0114 Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 225 06 19 kjulian@adb.org www.adb.org EBRD 6 Marjanishvili St. Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 244 74 00 www.ebrd.com EUMM 49 Krtsanisi St. Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 224 37 16 European Union 38 Nino Chkheidze Str. Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 294 37 63 delegation-georgia@eeas.europa International Monetary Fund (IMF) 4 Freedom Sq. GMT Plaza. Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 292 04 32 kdanelia@imf.org www.imf.ge UNICEF 9 Eristavi St. UN House. Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 232388

This important annual publication for tourism and trade market players has the distinction of being the first comprehensive magazine of this nature in Georgia with international distribution.

Now available on-line, from Georgian tourism administration offices, is the foremost internationally distributed tourism and trade guide for our country. It encourages new visitors and investors to Georgia, and keeps them well informed when they are here.

To advertise in the 2016 edition contact: Lela Khartishvili TTG Georgia Ltd Tel +995 599 99 21 61 info@thegeorgianonline.com www.thegeorgianonline.com

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United Nations 9 Eristavi St. UN House. Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 225 11 26 Registry.geo@undp.org www.undp.org UNHCR 2a Kazbegi Ave. Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 238 62 02 wolken@unhcr.org World Bank 5A Chavchavadze Ave. Line – I. Tbilisi Tel: +995 32 291 30 96 www.worldbank.org.ge

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