Slow Travel Through Georgia
Georgia, a small nation sitting between Europe and Asia in the Caucasus mountain region is often overlooked by many. A mysterious destination that is beginning to attract interest by remote workers and international entrepreneurs for the quality of life and foreign investment opportunities. Georgia’s largest city and capital, Tbilisi is deeply rooted in culture. A capital of tradition and history, with a vibrant endearing character. Georgia has a fast growing economy and Tbilis is gaining popularity as one of the most talked about remote work hubs in the world.
The Caucasus mountains make for excellent hiking and skiing, the lush greenery and Black Sea charm for rest and restoration, affordable food, accommodation and travel, warm and inviting locals, Mediterranean climate and the cradle of wine making, what is not to like about Georgia.
What is the history of Georgia?
Georgia is a country in the Caucasus region. It borders Armenia and Azerbaijan to the north, Russia to the northeast, Turkey to the southeast, and Iran to the south.
The capital and largest city is Tbilisi. Georgia covers an area of 69,700 km2 (26,911 sq mi), and its population is about 3.9 million.
The country was first mentioned in a 4th-century BC historical text as Iberia. The name "Georgia" comes from the ancient Georgian kingdom of Kartli (Iberia), which existed from the 3rd century BC until 5th century AD.
The first unified Georgian state emerged in 1008 AD under King David IV, who proclaimed himself "King of Georgians".
Between 1245 and 1762, Georgia was invaded by various nomadic invaders, culminating in the campaigns of Nadir Shah Afshar to incorporate the country into his Iranian Empire in 1743. The subsequent unification of Iran led to the Russo-Persian War (1722–1723), and a brief reoccupation by Iran which in 1801 led to the Treaty of Gulistan and Treaty of Torkmanchay, leaving Georgia divided by Russia and Qajar Iran. In 1804, Erekle II signed an agreement with Fath Ali Khan of Persia to create a united Kingdom of Georgia which would be ruled by a single monarch from the Georgian Bagrationi Dynasty. In exchange for agreeing to become a Russian protectorate, Erekle was
In 1991, Georgia gained independence from the Soviet Union after years of political unrest and civil conflict led by Zviad Gamsakhurdia (1938-1993). After Gamsakhurdia's death in 1993, Eduard Shevardnadze served as President of Georgia until 2003 when he was forced to resign due to popular protests against his rule. Mikheil Saakashvili became president and remained in office until 2013 when his party lost elections amid widespread allegations of electoral fraud by authorities.
The current president is Salome Zurabishvili who assumed office on December 25th 2018 after winning elections earlier that year.
What is the best food to try in Georgia?
You'll find a variety of different dishes throughout the country, but here two you must try:
Khinkali: These dumplings are stuffed with meat, mushrooms, cheese, or a combination of all three. They're served with a side dish called tkemali, which is made from walnuts, herbs, and pomegranate juice. This sauce is often poured over khinkali before eating them.
Khachapuri: This is one of Georgia's signature dishes! It's a baked flatbread filled with cheese that's shaped like an upside-down boat. It's usually accompanied by pickled vegetables and herbs on the side—but feel free to add your own toppings!
What are the best things to do in the country Georgia?
The best things to do in Georgia are really up to you, but here are a few suggestions:
Visit the Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park. This park is located in the nation's south and features a number of natural springs that offer some of the finest drinking water in the world. The park also has hiking trails and other activities for visitors to enjoy.
Take a trip to Batumi. This city is located on Georgia's Black Sea coast and offers some amazing beaches, including one that's been called one of the most beautiful in the world! You'll also find plenty of nightlife, great food options, and more here.
Explore Tbilisi. This capital city has a ton going on year-round—from art festivals to cultural events and more—but it really shines during its annual festival season (May through October). There are plenty of museums too, including the National Museum of Fine Art and the Georgian National Museum; both offer stunning collections as well as tours around town so you can learn more about Georgian culture while you're there!
How is the economy of Georgia?
The economy of Georgia is growing at a steady rate. The country's main exports are wine, fruits and nuts, and mineral water. Georgians also export a lot of textiles from the textile factories in the country.
Georgia imports a lot of oil from Russia and Azerbaijan. The government of Georgia is trying to diversify its imports by having more trade with European countries like Germany and France as well as Asian countries like China and South Korea.
What are the best things to do in Tbilisi?
Tbilisi is a great city to visit. The weather is mild in the spring, summer, and fall, and the city is full of things to do.
If you're looking for some indoor activities, check out the Museum of Ethnography and Folklore. They have great exhibits on Georgian culture and history, including displays on cooking and folklore. You can also see items from their collection of ceramics, textiles, and wood carvings.
Or if you want to spend your time outside, head to Mtatsminda Park or Freedom Square. The first has a zoo and gardens with beautiful views of the city; the second has museums and monuments dedicated to Georgia's struggle for independence from Russia during the early 20th century.
If you're looking for something more active than just walking around town? Try whitewater rafting on the River Mtkvari or mountain biking through one of Georgia's many nature preserves!
If you're looking for a romantic getaway, we recommend visiting the Narikala Fortress and then taking a stroll through the Old Town. Make sure to stop by the Anchiskhati Basilica—it's beautiful!
If you're looking for something fun and exciting, head over to Rustaveli Street where you'll find lots of restaurants and bars. This is also where most of Tbilisi's nightclubs are located!
What is the cost of living in Tbilisi?
The cost of living in Tbilisi is slightly higher than the rest of Georgia, but lower than the European average.
It's important to keep in mind that the cost of living varies depending on where you live and how much money you earn. If you're renting a place, for example, your rent will be a greater proportion of your overall expenses than if you bought a home.
The most expensive thing in Tbilisi is eating out at restaurants—the average meal costs about $10 USD. Other expenses include public transportation (about $1/ride), heating fuel (about $3/gallon), clothes (about $40/piece), and groceries (about $5-60/day).
Does Tbilisi have a lot of expats?
Tbilisi is a very international city with expats from all over the world. There are many different cultures and nationalities that make up Tbilisi.
There are also many different languages spoken in Tbilisi. English is the most common language spoken in Tbilisi, but many people speak Russian, German and French as well.
According to recent studies, Tbilisi is an excellent place for expats because it has many things that make it appealing:
A low cost of living
An abundance of job opportunities
A strong sense of community
Does Tbilisi have co-working spaces for remote workers?
Yes! Tbilisi has a number of co-working spaces that are perfect for remote workers. If you're looking to get away from the home office, these spots can help you find your next level of productivity.
You can find some of them here:
https://www.regus.com/en-US/georgia/tbilisi/tabidze-1-building-4227
Which airlines have direct flights into Georgia?
There are many airlines that have direct flights into the country Georgia.
Aeroflot has direct flights from Moscow and St. Petersburg to Tbilisi, a flight time of about 2 hours and 20 minutes.
Lufthansa has direct flights from Munich to Tbilisi, a flight time of about 3 hours and 50 minutes.
Air France has direct flights from Paris to Tbilisi, a flight time of about 4 hours and 10 minutes.
