I just watched Extraction 2 (Chris Hemsworth's movie in Netflix), the setting is in Georgia which reminds me of our travels back in 2014 with the Kachapuri Group.
I remember venturing into these lesser-known corners of the world...and discovering the beauty of Georgia, not the US state but the country in Eastern Europe, my three friends and I decided to embark on an extraordinary adventure. With no contacts in the country and no fixed plans, we took a leap of faith, relying on the kindness of strangers to guide us through this underrated gem. Fortunately, luck was on our side, and we found trustworthy taxi drivers who became our dedicated tour guides.
Our journey began with a visit to the Gergeti Trinity Church, also known as Tsminda Sameba. Nestled in the Caucasus Mountains, this 14th-century marvel required a wild drive to reach, but the breathtaking view made every twist and turn worthwhile. As we stood amidst the green fields, a "Sound of Music" vibe enveloped us, and serendipitously, we witnessed a wedding taking place, adding an air of enchantment to our experience.
Continuing our exploration, we made our way to Mtskheta, home to the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The cathedral's magnificence left us awe-struck, but it was a relief sculpture that captured our attention. Known as The Hand of Arsakidze, it depicted the legend of an architect whose jealous priest convinced the king to have his hand severed. This intriguing tale added a layer of mystique to the already fascinating history of the region.
In the heart of Tbilisi, Georgia's capital, we marveled at the Holy Trinity Cathedral, locally known as Tbilisi Sameba. Erected on Ella Hill, the cathedral's imposing façade featured enormous stairs, leading us towards a sense of spiritual reverence.
We also indulged in a delightful wine tasting session, surrounded by Churchkhela, traditional Georgian candle-shaped candies. These treats, made from grape must, nuts, and flour, were threaded onto strings and dipped in a thickened mixture of grape must, mulberry juice, or fruit juices, then dried into the shape of a sausage. Each bite was a burst of flavors and textures, a true culinary delight.
Tbilisi also surprised us with its blend of ancient and modern architecture. The Tbilisi Public Service Hall, a mushroom-like structure, stood as a testament to the city's contemporary design prowess.
Another striking landmark was the Peace Bridge of Georgia, an architectural masterpiece that dazzled us, particularly when illuminated at night. Its graceful curves and vibrant colors were the work of the esteemed Italian architect Michele De Lucchi.
As we ventured further into the country, we encountered natural wonders that left us in awe. Georgia's pristine waterfountains beckoned us to refresh ourselves, and the water was so pure that we could drink directly from it—a truly invigorating experience that connected us with the raw beauty of the land.
Our journey took us to Signagi Kakheti, a picturesque mountainous province. Here, we explored the ancient Georgian town and immersed ourselves in the rich history and culture. A highlight of our visit was the David Gareja monastery complex, founded in the 6th century. Interestingly, this complex straddles the border with Azerbaijan, sparking a territorial dispute and adding an intriguing layer of complexity to our exploration.
Our adventure then led us to Batumi, a coastal city that captured our hearts. After a four-hour bus ride, we found ourselves without accommodation, but serendipity favored
us yet again, and we stumbled upon a cozy hostel where we settled for our stay. The sun-soaked beaches of Batumi beckoned, offering a perfect escape from our busy itinerary. We basked in the warm embrace of the sand and surf, feeling the cares of the world melt away. The city's vibrant zoo also entertained us with its fascinating array of wildlife.
No journey to Georgia would be complete without indulging in its culinary delights. Our personal favorite was khachapuri, a mouthwatering dish that resembled a pizza. Known as Georgian cheese bread, khachapuri became an instant hit among our group. In fact, we affectionately named ourselves "The Khachapuris" as an homage to this beloved treat.
We also relished the khinkali, traditional Georgian dumplings filled with savory meat and a delightful soup inside. Mastering the art of eating khinkali required some skill—first, delicately sip the hot soup, then savor the tender meat within. It was an enjoyable challenge that added to the overall dining experience. And let's not forget the vibrant lemonade, a refreshing alternative to the usual cola brands. Its colorful appearance and thirst-quenching taste added a delightful twist to our culinary journey.
Our adventure in Georgia proved to be both educational and explorational. With no set itinerary, we embraced the unknown and discovered a country filled with hidden treasures. From ancient churches and cathedrals to modern architectural marvels, from natural wonders to culinary delights, Georgia delighted us at every turn. The warmth and hospitality of the Georgian people, exemplified by our taxi driver-turned-tour guide, left an indelible mark on our hearts.
If you seek a destination that combines rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and warm-hearted locals, Georgia should be on your list. Immerse yourself in the wonder and be mesmerized in the charm of this Eastern European gem. Trust us, it's an experience that is truly worth the journey.
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