La Georgia it has only 5 million inhabitants, but it is a country that manages to give strong emotions in the few square kilometers it occupies between Russia, Turkey, Armenia and Azerbaijan.
1) Tbilisi: the capital shows all the signs of the troubled history of this very young nation, born only in 1991, but which has already endured severe trials: wars, internal deportations, earthquakes and a serious economic meltdown. Now Georgia is recovering and a lively and noisy atmosphere fills the streets of the city, which is bejeweled with ultra-modern skyscrapers and buildings designed by famous architects, while the restoration of the nineteenth-century buildings brings to light the ancient elegance. Suspended between decadence and rebirth, it is the obligatory starting point for getting to know the country.
2) The Caucasus: the highest mountains in Europe crown Georgia and offer majestic landscapes, impossible climbs and walks in the company of cows, pigs and horses left free to graze in the valleys. Georgia is an ideal destination for mountain and mountaineering enthusiasts in various forms, from peaceful walks on marked trails, horseback riding or more extreme crossings of the passes or climbing to the very high glaciers.
3) khachapuri: This cheese focaccia is in itself a great reason to go to Georgia. You will find it everywhere, in various forms and regional variations, more or less caloric, with a double layer of cheese, eggs, or beans, but always fabulous. To eat hot just out of the oven, you won't be able to do without it anymore.
4) Monasteries: the Christian religion is an important component of Georgian identity and some of the most beautiful monuments are indeed ancient monasteries or churches. Some are the destination of many pilgrims and tourists, such as Mtsketa, others, more isolated, are still inhabited by cloistered monks. These ancient sites, where the first Christian hermits found refuge, are located in wonderful natural places and have been included in the world heritage by Unesco, such as Davit Gareji, Motsameta, Gelati.
5) Toast. In Georgia, toasting is an important issue. Georgians are so hospitable that they gladly invite tourists to their table, especially in the country villages. In every self-respecting party there is a 'chief of toasts' called Tamada, who dictates the timing of drinking in company and the themes to toast: to Georgia, to women, to friends, to the patriarch or to the summer. and so, one glass after another, always at the drop, good humor is guaranteed, even if you may not understand anything of their language, you can always appreciate food, wine and friendliness.
