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Spotlight on Georgia: Q&A with a local expert

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With snow-capped mountains and sprawling, verdant valleys, Georgia is one of the most awe-inspiring countries on earth. Its landscapes will enthrall you, the hospitality and kindness of its people will make you feel immediately at home and the vibrant stories of long-ago legends are sure to capture your imagination. Still far from the average tourist itinerary, Georgia is a real treat for any traveler who loves a sense of adventure. In our local expert interview for Georgia, we chat to Khatuna who helps us navigate this beautiful country.

Georgia local expert interview: top tips and experiences

What is life like in Georgia?

Life in Georgia is interesting in many different aspects. The people are wonderfully hospitable and the cultural belief is that all guests are a gift sent by God. It’s common to be invited into peoples’ homes for a traditional Georgian supra (feast) and your hosts will always do their best to please you!

The village of Tusheti in Georgia

As well as the people, the landscapes in Georgia are completely unique. We are a little country but we boast high peaks, sprawling lowlands and, of course, the Black Sea. Georgia has a really contrasting character with social life, politics and economy all in the mix but, for me, it’s all part of the adventure of living here.

What is your fondest memory of living in Georgia?

My fondest memory is connected to my first visit to the Svaneti province – it was definitely love at first sight! This is the province that really invaded my mind and heart and that’s why I always recommend it to visitors.

Read more: Svaneti: Georgia’s hidden gem

Learn about the magic of the Svaneti in our Georgia local expert interview

What three words most represent Georgia for you and why?

Hospitality: One of the most fitting words to describe local people.

Mountains: Georgia is located in Europe’s largest mountain system, the Great Caucasus.

Folklore: Created over many centuries, the local folklore is the best way to realize what Georgia and its culture are about.

What is your favorite place in Georgia? Why?

My favorite place in Georgia has to be the Svaneti province. It’s located northwest of Tbilisi in the Great Caucasus Mountains. Nature here is absolutely amazing, pristine and unique. Walking in Ushguli – the highest permanently settled village in Europe and home to 12th-century defensive towers – is impressive and awe-inspiring. Surrounding summits over 5,000m make me feel as if I’m in another world!

Hikers in Ushguli which is the highest permanently settled village in Europe

What is the Georgian culture like?

Culture is very important for Georgians and, very often, is deeply rooted in tradition. Dance and folk songs are considered an expression of Georgian national identity. Cultural life is more perceptible in the capital and big cities where popular festivals take place, like the Batumi Jazz Festival for example. The refurbished Opera and Ballet House hosts lots of performances by Georgian and international stars which are certainly impressive. However, if you really want to feel what the Georgian culture is like, you have to experience the folk shows!

What is your favorite Georgian food?

Almost everybody agrees that khinkali (meat dumplings) is the most iconic dish in Georgian cuisine; it’s loved by locals and visitors alike. It really demands special skills and experience to cook it well. I would also list mouthwatering khachapuri, made of local white cheese and pastry, and the “king” of east Georgian cuisine, mtsvadi – pork barbecued on spits and vine fire.

Read more: Taste your way around Georgia: a guide for foodies

A lady makes khinkali meat dumplings, a foodie favorite mentioned in our Georgia local expert interview

Do you know any cool facts about Georgia that most people wouldn’t know?

I certainly do! Firstly, Georgia is the home of wine-making and was one of the first Christian countries, converting in the 4th century. We also have our own unique alphabet, completely separate from any other, and it was recently added to the UNESCO Intangible Heritage List.

What are some experiences people traveling to Georgia definitely shouldn’t miss?

If you travel to Georgia, you must taste Georgian wine made in traditional fashion in a qveri (clay jars). Another thing is our very famous cuisine – everybody falls in love with it, and of course the mountainous regions of the country.

Read more: Discover why Georgia is the birthplace of wine

Grapes in a vineyard in Kakheti; learn about the history of local wine in our Georgia local expert interview

Do you have any top tips for TravelLocal customers thinking of visiting Georgia?

Get ready for the experience of a lifetime! You will learn so many interesting facts about Georgian history, culture, traditions, and everyday life. Our country is one of legends so there will be stories to entertain you at every turn. Make sure you taste Georgian wines, take part in cooking lessons, and get local advice wherever you can!

What is the story behind your company? What inspired you to start the business?

The company was started by Alexander Mamulashvili in 1997. The inspiration was a friend visiting who couldn’t book a hotel online or on the phone as, after the collapse of the Soviet Union, the tourism industry was basically non-existent. We now have highly qualified and hardworking staff who have made us the best local operator in the country.

On a more personal level, having the opportunity to introduce the beauty of your country to visitors, and give them an unforgettable experience, is the ultimate inspiration.

The Kvesheti region in Georgia

What have been your favorite and most memorable experiences as a guide?

In the tourism sector, you meet people from all walks of life. Showing groups around Georgia has left me with lots of wonderful memories – trekking in the mountains, cooking together, taking part in traditional song and dance. Positive feedback is the most wonderful and heartwarming thing, and we’re blessed to have had so many happy customers over the years!

What’s next for your company?

We are glad to host more and more visitors every year, make them absolutely satisfied with the country and our service, and give them an unforgettable experience. We plan to offer more creative products, create unique and interesting tours, and invite more guests to come and see Georgia.

View of the river in Kutaisi, Georgia

Make it happen

If our Georgia local expert interview makes you want to experience this magnificent country for yourself, head over to our destination page or send an enquiry to our local experts.

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