The Republic of Georgia, my homeland has been hiding under the radar far too long. It's a place of mystery, intrigue and eclectic architecture. Since it was founded in the 5th century, it has been rebuild 29 times since then.The people of Georgia are very dedicated and devoted people. I've heard many times how Georgians can conquer your heart and treat you as their family. This always makes me so happy and proud.
Hospitality and love towards their guests is what makes Georgia unique and charming in its own way. Not to mention it's the best place for eating and drinking opportunities. One thing's for sure, if a Georgian offers you a drink of Cha Cha, you better take it 🙂
Welcome to the Republic of Georgia.
Where is the Republic of Georgia located?!
The Republic of Georgia is located in Eurasia. It lies by the Easter end of the Black Sea and surrounded by the Caucuses Mountains. A lot of us like to call it "the balcony of Europe!". People don't know what to expect from this former Soviet republic but it's the most beautiful country with plenty of rich cultural heritage and unique cuisines to enjoy.
It has been 15 years since I've been back to my country. I don't know why I took so long to go back but I will not make the same mistake twice. My childhood friend invited me to her wedding in Tbilisi (the capital) so it was the perfect time to see my country, friends and family again. I thought a week would be enough to settle my affairs but I was wrong. Once you are in Georgia, you never want to leave.
Tbilisi!!
Tbilisi is the capital of Georgia with the population of 1.5 million people. It's a very cozy city, full of hidden gems, vineyards and history. The legend of Tbilisi began with a King named Vakhtang the 1st.
One afternoon the King Vakhtang I decide to go hunting in a heavily wooded area with his falcon. The King's falcon caught/injured another bird after which both birds fell into a hot spring and died from the burns. The King was so impressed with the hot springs of the region that decided to clear out the forest and build a city named Tbilisi "the Warm City".
Tbilisi has gone through various rivalries with Romans, Arabs and Turks shaping its history. If I were you, I would spend a few days just to explore the city's history. During the night the lights from the hills reflect into the Kuri (Mtkvari) river making the downtown glow all night. Tbilisi has a great night life full of music, singing and dancing. I'm serious, we love the karaoke bars.
1. Check out the Bridge of Peace
It's a steel and glass constructed bridge in downtown Tbilisi. You can see it from almost anywhere. It was designed to connect Old Tbilisi with the new district.
2. Aerial Tramway
It's right next to the bridge of Peace. These cable cars take you up the hill to the mother Georgia statue. You can get the best panoramic view of the old town of Tbilisi and the Kura (Mktvari) river. The ride is only 1 lari and I suggest buying a round ticket.
3. Holy Trinity Cathedral - "Sameba"
There are a lot of Churches in Tbilisi - and that's a 100% fact. However, Holy Trinity Cathedral is something everyone must see. It's kind of hard to miss its enormous size. Sameba is the third- tallest Orthodox cathedral - constructed between 1995 - 2004. Even though Sameba doesn't carry as much history as others do, it's still majestic and powerful in its own way.
4. Old Tbilisi
Tbilisi's old town is a unique and the oldest part of the city. It lies close to the mountainside fortress called Narikala fortress. At night this place has amazing atmosphere filled with superb restaurants, shops and the night life.
5. Funicular Railway
This railway takes you up Mt Mtatsminda. You'll get to the highest point that surrounds the city. There is a beautiful park you can take a stroll through or eat at the Funicular Restaurant Complex and enjoy the traditional Georgia food and wine.
Don't forget to eat some Khinkali and drink the Georgian wine called Saperavi. My country is one of the oldest wine making countries. They use the ancient techniques to produce the variety of wines and using clay pots called Kvevri to store and age them. There are so many things that Georgia has to offers, you just have to go and visit and I hope you do.
XoXo Nina
Use the Expedia link below and save money traveling!!!
The cover picture of this got me hooked, it must have been such a riveting experience holding a monkey and bird, OMG!
This trip was an experience for sure. The monkey and the bird situation was an interesting one since they didn’t really like being close to each other too much. Thanks for your comment.
XoXo Nina
Hi Nina!
Sounds like you had a great time. I know visiting your home town was exciting in itself!
The Georgian wine “Saperavi” I just love the way it sounds!
Hi Cheri,
It was exciting, emotional and everything in between. Saperavi is one of my favorite red wines but there are other good white wines to try. I hope one day you will visit Georgia – you will never want to leave:) Thanks for your comment.
XoXo Nina
What an awesome article about Georgia. Love it