Georgia

Types of trips: Historical, Relaxation, Scenic, Adventure, Hiking

Best known for: Location at the gateway of the Black Sea/dividing line between Asia and Europe, Gainesville - Poultry Capital of the World

Why Go?: Georgia is a country full of rolling landscape and old churches dotted amongst mountains - a charming yet high spirited country with friendly locals and scenery to take your breath away both from looking at it and walking around it! 

Fact File

Population: 5,000,000

Capital: Tbilisi

Language(s): Georgian

Ties to the UK?: Good relationship

Landscape: Very mountainous throughout with some scattered plateaus, rivers and caves

Climate/Seasons: Reasonably varied climate - generally, the lower areas are warm for the majority of the year, while the higher regions have cool/wet summers and snowy winters. 

When to Go: May, June and September have the best weather without being unpleasantly hot or humid.

Reasons to Visit: Georgia is a country with a complicated history and therefore fascianting to learn about - a trip here can take you back through the ages via the architecture, the food and the art, and will be both educational and fun!

How to Get There: Air travel is the only reasonably option for travelling to Georgia from the UK - there are several good airports in the country that receive international flights

Places to Go: Narikala, Tbilisi, Turtle Lake, Bagrati Cathedral

Famous People: Joseph Stalin, Elena Satine, Georgi Kinkladze, Niko Pirosmani

Natural Wonders/Wildlife: Vashlovani National Park, Mount Kazbeck

History: Once part of the Soviet Union, gained independence in 1991

Architecture: Svetitskhoveli Cathedral

Culture: Rich folklore and many traditions in music, theatre, cinema and art

Sport: Football, Basketball, Rugby, Wrestling, Judo, Weightlifting

Events: Wine festivals, International Festival of Theatre

Watch Out For: Some areas of the country are prone to unrest and should be avoided, and you should exercise caution around heavy crowds

Medical Issues: Some boosters and vaccines are advised - always consult with a doctor, and check here for some good general advice