GEORGIAN NATIONAL TOURISM ADMINISTRATION. Meetings

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1 EventsTourism Catalogus GEORGIAN NATIONAL TOURISM ADMINISTRATION Meetings

2 Member of Contents Introduction Why Georgia? Airports Tbilisi Hotels Batumi Hotels Expo Georgia Special Venues Tourism Opportunities Food & Wine

3 RUSSIA BLACK SEA GEORGIA Batumi Tbilisi TURKEY ARMENIA AZERBAIJAN Introduction Located at the crossroads between Europe and Asia, Georgia has seamlessly integrated aspects of various cultures, while at the same time retaining its own unparalleled identity. Covering territory of only 69,700 sq. km. the country is renowned for its fascinating history, majestic Caucasus Mountains, the Black Sea coastline, curative climate, healing mineral waters, national parks and UNESCO Heritage Sites. For centuries Georgia has been the cultural, educational and transportation center for the Caucasus region; with some of the most famous trade routes like the Silk Road. The country s consecutive integration into the European Union represents one of the most important directions of the nation s political and economic development. In 14, Georgia signed an Association Agreement with the European Union and to further contribute to the nation s safety, security and integrity, the country has undertaken an initiative to become a member of NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization). Today, Georgia ranks among the most prospective countries in Europe; with the World Economic Forum Competitiveness Index 14- placing the nation 23rd out of 144 countries with the least amount of irregular payments and bribes and 37th out of 148 countries in reliability of police service. Hereby, the New York Times named Georgia 25th out of 52 places to go in. The authenticity and unique cultural heritage, alongside lead rankings in the world s most prestigious indexes have turned Georgia into a premier travel destination in the region. The number of visitors to the country has been growing drastically for the past decade and for the second year in a row international arrivals have exceeded the 5 million mark, which is considerably more than the population of the country

4 Why Georgia? World Tusheti Renowned Reforms Georgia is a dynamically developing country, which over the past few years has implemented numerous successful and progressive reforms to ease the tax regime, simplify licensing regulations/procedures and set up a one window approach system in many dealings, which involve relations between the government and businesses. According to the World Bank 14 rating: the country ranks th in the world by Ease of Doing Business and referring to the Heritage Foundation ratings, Georgia holds the 22nd position in the Index of Economic Freedom. Captivating Nature, Landscapes & Year-Round Destination Georgia is a country where subtropical marshes and semideserts can be found within a hundred kilometres of alpine zones and snowy peaks. Nearly % of the country s territory is still covered in forests and large portions are untouched or strictly protected. Herewith, the Borjomi-Kharagauli National park (located just one and a half hours drive from Tbilisi) is one of the largest parks in Europe. This natural diversity has turned the country into a yearround destination for travelers. Experiencing variety of wines produced in Kakheti (wine-producing region), exploring the unique ancient towers, monuments and churches, enjoying the exhilarating ski slopes of Gudauri, Bakuriani and Mestia or relaxing on the seaside of the Black Sea, Georgia offers a range of attractions for all types of visitors. 1 2 Kazbegi 3 UNESCO World Heritage Sites Georgia is home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites: 1 Gelati Monastery dating back to the th century, is a memorizing example of medieval architecture. 2 Historic Monuments of Mtskheta the Jvari Monastery dates back to the 6th century, and the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral is one of the most majestic sites in Georgia. 3 2 Ushguli one of the highest populated areas in Europe is located at an elevation of meters above sea level; the area is renowned for its unique towerhouses and unparalleled natural beauty. Katskhi Pillar Georgia has been stunning visitor with its natural beauty and biodiversity for centuries; as the representative of Worldwide Fund for Nature (WWF) noted - not a single country in Europe possesses such a diverse flora and fauna as Georgia

5 Unique Culture of Hospitality & Delicious Cuisine The Georgian people embraced a unique culture of hospitality; for Georgians being a host is not only a privilege, but a sacred tradition passed down for centuries. These traits are best exhibited during the traditional feast Supra, which involves a toast master (Tamada) and vibrant polyphonic music acknowledged by UNESCO as a masterpiece of the world s cultural heritage. The country offers a delicious variety of dishes, with numerous tasty herbs and spices. Georgian food and drinks were ranked 4th in Europe, right behind Italy, France and Spain (Thrillist). Cradle of Wine Georgia is considered to be the birthplace of wine, which has been produced in the country for over 8,000 years; this is what the BBC referred to as the world s longestrunning unbroken wine tradition. Today, over 500 varieties of grapes are grown throughout the country and Georgian wines are famous for their unique properties and character. Furthermore, the Georgian way of winemaking - in clay pots called Qvevri - belongs to UNESCO Intangible Heritage. Ancient Civilization & Alphabet The current territory of Georgia is located on one of the most historic and ancient soils of Europe - the remains of the First European Civilization were discovered in Georgia, dating back 1.8 million years. With this discovery, Georgia is considered the first migration point of humans from Africa into Europe. Georgia s uniqueness is deeply rooted in its memorizing history and ancestry, a good example of this is the Georgian alphabet, which is among the 14 unique alphabets known to mankind, and is distinct from all other languages; the oldest known inscriptions date back to the 5th century A.D. Climate The Greater Caucasus Mountain Range influencing Georgia s climate, protects the country from cold air masses from the North. Furthermore, the Lesser Caucasus Mountains partially protect the region from the influence of dry and hot air masses from the South. With this, the average temperature in summer ranges from 32 C to C, and in winter from 1.5 C to 3 C

6 Gudauri Tbilisi Airport Located just km from the city, Tbilisi International Airport (TBS) offers international, domestic and cargo flights. The Airport has been operated by TAV since 05. In 07, a new international terminal was opened, which can accommodate up to 2.8 million passengers a year. ICAO quality standards and services make it one of the most reliable destination points in the region. Batumi Airport Located just 2 km from the city, Batumi International Airport (BUS) serves both international and domestic flights. The new terminal which opened in 07 has 6 check-in desks and 4 passport stations. Hereby, Georgia and Turkey have signed an agreement whereby Batumi Airport is considered part of Turkey s domestic network, creating favorable environment for flights between the two countires. Kutaisi Airport King David the Builder Kutaisi International Airport is located 14 km (8.7 mi) west of Kutaisi. The runway has a length of 2,0 meters and fully complies with modern standards. The goal of the Kutaisi International Airport is to attract low-cost airlines and create a competitive environment. Tusheti/Dartlo Ilia Chavchavadze National Parliamentary Library of Georgia Origin Distance (km) Distance (mile) Approximate duration of flight Istanbul, Turkey hours Athens, Greece hours Warsaw, Poland hours Dubai, UAE hours Vienna, Austria hours Munich, Germany hours Amsterdam, Netherlands hours London, UK hours

7 The legendary capital city of Tbilisi has a charming history dating back to the 5th century (A.D.). It is striking how the city encompasses ancient architecture, beautiful scenery and cultural centers with all the amenities of modern lifestyle leisure areas, restaurants, cafes, shopping facilities and nightlife. Over the centuries, the famous sulfur baths located at the heart of the city have hosted various poets, writers, musicians and kings. City Logo: DISCOVER Tbilisi Area: 0 km 2 (219 sq miles) Total population: 1,118,0 Time zone: GET (UTC +4) Calling code: Official website:

8 6a Marshal Gelovani Str. Tbilisi, / Makashvili Str. Tbilisi, / Beaumonde Garden Beaumonde Garden Hotel is located in south-west part of Tbilisi. The elegant hotel is spread over 5000 sq. m. of beautifully landscaped cascade gardens. This is the place where all the colors of nature are combined in harmony. Hotel is designed in an attractive manner. Contemporary, and unconventional view from the terrace simply takes your breath away, regardless of the season. Beaumonde Garden is mesmerizing. The hotel has 55 rooms spread over 6 floors. We offer comfortable and fully air-conditioned rooms of various sizes within the reasonable price range. If you are looking for the venues for outdoor celebration you cannot pass the Beaumonde Garden Hotel. The unique integrity of luxurious and cozy atmosphere makes Beaumonde Garden the Home away from Home. Visit us anytime and we will make your stay unforgettable. Betsy s Betsy s hotel is an exquisitely decorated boutique hotel overlooking the center of Tbilisi. Our hotel s stylish and inspirational character comes from twenty years of opening the doors to many visitors from across Georgia and abroad. The staff makes every stay unique with Georgian warmth and hospitality. The atmosphere is quiet and comfortable. Betsy s has 57 well furnished rooms - 13 Suites and 44 Regular. The rooms can be single or double (2 persons in the room). Our rates include breakfast, internet access in the Rooms and Lobby area, usage of outdoor swimming pool, and fitness centre. We offer a la carte dinner, the dinner for groups in buffet style and is served upon request. All Rooms are equipped with personal Safes and Mini Bars. Betsy s has 24 hour security service and power back up in case of power cuts. Betsy s offers large, small and BAR Conference Rooms. L W L W m 8m Conference Large Conference Small Conference BAR

9 4 Freedom Sq. Tbilisi, / tbilisi@citadines.ge 45a Kostava Str. Tbilisi, /92 16 info@hotelcoste.ge Citadines Citadines Freedom Square Tbilisi Apart`Hotel is located in the center of the city, at the Freedom Square, in walking distance from dining, shopping and entertainment areas. Citadines Freedom Square Tbilisi Apart`Hotel is the sole residence in Georgia configured in apartments style. Fully equipped kitchens and well-defined spaces for work, entertainment and many more are at your disposal. Our service is very flexible so we make your stay in our hotel as enjoyable as in any Citadines Apart` Hotel around the world. Coste Hotel Coste embraces all the advantages of the modern 4 star city hotel: central location, contemporary interior design, excellent service and comfortable rooms. Located near the Philharmonic Building (Tbilisi Concert Hall), in walking distance from the Rustaveli Avenue, the hotel offers easy access to the sightseeing and shopping areas of the city. The facilities of our hotel includes a café with Georgian and European cuisine, lobby bar, library, summer terrace, conference hall and a meeting room. L W L W Central Room ,4m 5,5m Conference Room m m Master Room ,5m 5,5m Meeting Room 6m 4m

10 4 Freedom Sq. Tbilisi, / 75 Beliashvili Str. Tbilisi, /04/05 Courtyard by Marriott Courtyard by Marriott Tbilisi located in the city s cultural and business center. Be it a business or leisure trip, group or individual stay, the hotel guarantees to provide comfortable and hassle-free stay. 118 spacious guest rooms feature modern amenities including oversized work areas, Wi Fi, safe and individual climate control. Dine at Brasserie Freedom, which serves delicious International culinary delights and remarkable georgian wines. Health club offers top equipment, sauna, indoor pool and jacuzzi for unwinding after business meetings and sightseeing. Courtyard by Marriott Tbilisi creates unforgettable events with full-service catering and 7 meeting rooms that accommodate to 0 guests. Cruise Hotel Cruise began operating in October 08. The hotel stands on the banks of the river Mtkvari. Inside the hotel there are 50 rooms. In the central part of the building there are standard rooms. There are rooms in the new building of the hotel, including the premium class apartments and suite rooms, two restaurants, a bar and three seasonal cafés. Also, there is a conference hall and a meeting room. There is also a deck for hosting different events and free billiard and GYM room for our guests. Grand Ballroom L W ,6m 16,9m Meetin Room I Meetin Room II Meetin Room III Board Room A ,2m 5,7m 14,9m 5,7m 8,2m 5,7m 6,8m 5,7m Central Room Master Room L W 11m m Board Room B 7,6m 3,8m

11 1 Twentysix May Sq. Tbilisi, / Tbilisi Sea New City, Tbilisi, /26 Holiday Inn Featuring 270 guest rooms and 5 conference and meeting rooms, Holiday Inn Tbilisi represents the biggest hotel in Georgia by number of rooms. Located on the opposite side of the Sport Palace in Tbilisi, this hotel has an outdoor pool, gym, treatment room and bar with brilliant views. It has a private entrance to the Ajara Casino which, is just next door. Holiday Inn Tbilisi provides air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi, a coffee maker, and a laptop-sized safe. The modern interiors feature floor-to-ceiling windows and wooden floors. International cuisine is served in the Ajara Restaurant. Guests can relax with a drink in the Holiday Inn s Biscuit Bar. Hotels and Preference Built in a modern European contemporary style the 247 guestrooms and suites provide you with a natural, comfortable and elegant stay, offering the biggest room size varied from 39 sq. m. up to 9 sq. m. Our hotel fulfills the needs of customers who appreciate luxury and cozy surroundings with convivial and intimate atmosphere. A new upscale hotel offers perfect venues for holding conventions, seminars, workshops, incentives and other varieties of events. Designed to impress, the meeting venues at Hotels & Preference Hualing Tbilisi include the 0 sq. m. Grand Ballroom, and additional three meeting rooms that can accommodate from 1 persons. L W Ajara Conference Hall Idea Meeting Room Living Room Glass Meeting Room Business Board Room m 11m m m 6m 11m 7m 7m 7m 3,5m Grand Ball room Hualing Narikala Meeting roon Mtsatsminda Meeting room Meidan Meeting room L m 9m 9m 9m W 24m 13m 11m 11m

12 13 Rustaveli Ave. Tbilisi, / 14 Kostava Str. Tbilisi, /22 Tbilisi Marriott Tbilisi Marriott Hotel offers luxurious accommodation in one of the world s most unforgettable cities. The hotel offers 7 spacious guest rooms overlooking Rustaveli Avenue, Chanturia Street or the Patio. Centrally located, Tbilisi Marriott Hotel is known for spacious event venues and first-class catering, offering 8 meeting venues and the Ballroom accommodating up to 0 guests, also first class highly flexible entertainment and conference facilities.the experienced and professional team of Tbilisi Marriott Hotel will do its utmost to make your event a success. Rooms Hotel Featuring 1 guest rooms and 4 conference and meeting venues Rooms Hotel Tbilisi is the proud member of Design Hotels. The hotel is set in the heart of Tbilisi s neighborhood, Vera. Its doors are open to anyone willing to get a priceless experience. Offering free Wi-Fi and a terrace, Rooms Hotel Tbilisi is located a 5-minute walk from Rustaveli Metro Station. American cuisine is served in the hotel s restaurant The Kitchen, and there is also a bar on site. Room service and breakfast in the room are provided upon request. Freedom Square is a -minute walk. Tbilisi Train Station is 6 km away, and Tbilisi International Airport is 17 km away from Rooms Hotel Tbilisi. L W Queen Tamar 70 6,5m 9,9m Giorgi Mirian 70 14,2m 9,8m L W King David 7,3m 7,5m Central Room m 11m Ballroom Sanadimo ,8m 9,9m 8,2m 4,5m Master Room Event Room m m 7m 7m King Parnavaz/King Gorgasali 6 3,2m 3,5m Map Room

13 1 Rose Revolution Sq. Tbilisi, / Marajanishvili Str. Tbilisi, / Radisson Blu Iveria As stylish as it is convenient, this Tbilisi hotel provides plush accommodation in the capital city of Georgia. The impressive glass tower presides over the Mtkvari River and grants breathtaking views of the city. Guests benefit from on-site dining, a chic rooftop bar and Free high-speed, wireless Internet. For a memorable event, you can employ one of our nine meeting rooms or the lavish ballroom. With its 249 comfortable rooms and suits, Italian and Asian restaurants with exquisite cuisine, two bars and a casino. Radisson Blu Iveria Hotel Tbilisi is all you want in a hotel and even more. Prestige Palace Welcome to Hotel Prestige Palace. We are pleased to offer you warm hospitality, high level service, comfortable rooms and delicious cuisine. Hotel Prestige Palace was founded in 04. The three star hotel is situated in the old district of Tbilisi, on Marjanishvili street 51. Hotel is located in 2 km. from railway station and in km. from airport. Hotel is a walking distance from Historical Ave. Aghmashenebeli and from metro Marjanishvili. Iveria Ballroom L W ,4m 25,86m Our hotel has a great experience in meeting and offering good entertainment to guests from all over the world. Hotel has also a great experience to organize conferences, presentations, trainings and business meetings. Hotel has 61 comfortable rooms and 3 conference halls. Iveria Ballroom ,4m 7,13m Iveria Ballroom 2 Iveria Ballroom 3 Meeting room ,4m 8,6m 13,4m 9,94m 4,05m 7,27m Meeting room ,05m 8,55m Meeting room 3 Meeting room 4 Meeting room ,16m,65m 6,16m,65m 7,05m 8,89m Meeting room 6 Meeting room 7 Meeting room 8 Meeting room ,25m,64m +3,52m +7,2m 3,2m 5,28m 6,92m 5,28m 6,92m 5,28m Conference 1 Conference 2 Conference L W

14 Located along the Black Sea coast, Batumi has become the key seaside destination for business, entertainment and leisure on the Black Sea. The city was built by European architects and represents a symbol of many innovations in its style of construction. This beautiful city is situated on the crossroad, which leads to Europe and Asia. This popular tourist destination hosts many local and international, cultural, sports and other events, including: Black Sea Jazz Festival, International Film Festival BIAFF, Classical Music Festival, Animated Films Festival Topuzi, International Theatre Festival etc. Hereby, with new high-end hotels, such as: Radisson, Sheraton and Hilton, the city is rapidly becoming a destination for all types of travelers. With this, quality nightlife, gambling opportunities and new restaurants have given the city its fresh character. City Logo: DISCOVER Batumi Area: 64, 9 km 2 (25, 1 sq miles) Total population: 1,000 Time zone: GET (UTC +4) Calling code: Official website:

15 5/13 Kostava/Z. Gamsakhurdia Str. Batumi, / info.divansuitebatumi.divan.com.tr Aghmashenebeli St. Kobuleti, /03 Divan Suites Divan Suites Batumi is located in the centre of Batumi, a five-minute walk from the Black Sea coastline and two minutes from the city center. The hotel offers travel connoisseurs a unique interpretation of luxury design of Batumi s 19th Century heritage; our guestrooms are designed with modern-day luxury in mind, offering all the comforts and conveniences. Featuring two fully equipped meeting rooms, one 55 sq. m. and the other a 5 sq. m. Multipurpose room, providing flexible event facilities. The hotel offers a full range of amenities including our exclusive spa and a restaurant with the most delicious georgian, turkish and international dishes. Georgia Palace Hotel & SPA Georgia Palace Hotel & SPA is the first Georgian 5-star brand, located in the small resort town of Kobuleti, on the Ajarian Black Sea coast. Kobuleti is situated just minutes from Batumi. 7 room hotel is opened all year round and achieves the highest standards of hospitality and service. Guest rooms and suites, all with private balconies, open the wonderful views of the sea or the surrounding mountains. For dining hotel offers 2 restaurants - Ajara and Roof Garden where the French chef offers guests refine and healthy cuisine. Spa center offers the choice of advanced body and face therapies. Also, the first Indian Ayurveda Health Care Centre in Georgia and guarantees you the best Ayurveda Panchakarma treatments. It is the ideal venue for banquet and conference for up to 0 people. Conference rooms are equipped with multimedia technology, sound and lighting systems, wireless and cable internet access. Gonio / / /45 L W 13,1m 4,m Seaside Boulevard Green Cape L W 14,1m 7,2m 7,6m 7m Petra Ponto Aieti Board Room 0 / / m m 18,5m 3,5m 17,3m,1m 4,75m 7m Roof Garden /50 50/ /0 19,8m 17m

16 275 Aghmashenebeli Str. Kobuleti, / Batumi Boulevard Hilton Batumi Upper Ajara The monument Ali & Nino All New Hilton Batumi boasts 247 rooms and suites, at our beachfront location with easy access to the city center. Upgraded Executive Rooms and suites offer access to our Executive Lounge on the 16th floor. 7 meeting rooms and Rustaveli Ballroom cater for 375 guests. Lobbies provide for a relaxed aura. Tandila Café and terrace serve quality refreshments all day. Pelion restaurant offers contemporary Georgian delicacies. Nephele Sky Bar with terrace is the place to spend an elegant evening amongst the stars. Eforea spa offers the global spa experience, combined with practices from all around the world. Piazza Batumi Lazica Ushba L W 70,8m 7,5m 8,2m 5,8m Kazbegi ,2m 5,4m Egrisi ,5m 8,4m Aragvi 33 9,5m 4,1m Petra ,5m 4,1m Armazi ,5m m Rustaveli Ballroom ,9m 13,8m Rustaveli I ,3m 13,8m Rustaveli II ,3m 13,8m Rustaveli III ,3m 13,8m

17 1 Ninoshvili Str. Batumi, / Rustaveli Str. Batumi, /29 Radisson Blu The Radisson Blu Hotel, Batumi features a beautiful glass exterior and a sleek, contemporary design by Italian architect Michele De Lucchi. The convenient seaside location is also near the city center, providing the ultimate retreat. Choose from 168 rooms and suites with amenities like free high-speed wireless Internet, and be sure to try the tempting on-site dining venues, including a 19th floor bar. The spa beckons travelers to retreat and unwind, while the expert meeting facilities ensure seamless events in a stylish location. Sheraton Sheraton Batumi Hotel has 2 rooms including 25 luxurious suites and the gorgeous Penthouse with panoramic view. Modern furniture, warm colors and the Sheraton Sweet Sleeper Bed fill every space with a relaxed atmosphere. The Sheraton Batumi offers a diverse selection of amenities and features, including modern conference facilities, two restaurants and three bars. Our meeting rooms with portable walls and the biggest ballroom in Georgia with 9 meters ceiling and 00 sq.m area provide the ideal setting for any meeting or event. Make use of our daylight facilities, which offer you a unique meeting experience. The banquet team at the Sheraton Batumi Hotel will be delighted to assist you with organizing a conference, training or customer presentation. Our well trained staff knows how to prepare lively receptions, a lavish banquet or a memorable incentive. L W Camellia 3 5 / m 24m L W Begonia / m m Grand Ballroom Camellia&Begonia 5 1/ / m 36m Ballroom Lilium 18 18/ 14 6m 7m Ballroom Orchid 18 18/ 14 6m 7m Ballroom Rose 22 6m 4m Meeting room 1 50 Mimosa 22 6m 4m Meeting room Lilium&Rose / 6m 11m Meeting room Orchid&Mimosa / 6m 11m Meeting room 4 16 Dahlia 6m 4m 1 Tulip 6m 4m 2 4m 6m

18 118 Tsereteli Ave., Tbilisi, ExpoGeorgia is the leading exhibition and convention centre in the Caucasus region. As a multi-functional business centre, we combine trade fairs with congresses, conferences and various other events. Exhibition Centre ExpoGeorgia is your reliable partner in the Caucasus market constantly working to develop new concepts and programs. ExpoGeorgia exhibitions and events centre is located in the central part of Tbilisi the capital of Georgia. ExpoGeorgia s fairground was constructed in 1959 in the days of Soviet Union. In 1996 it was privatized and restructured as a joint stock company and renamed as ExpoGeorgia. In October of 05 The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry - UFI approved the admission of ExpoGeorgia as a full member in categories of exhibition organizers and exhibition centers. Total space of fairground is 1,000 sq.m. There are 11 pavilions, with a total indoor exhibition space of, 000sq.m. The space of the exhibition pavilions ranges from 0 sq.m. to 1, 700 sq.m. The open exhibition area totals more than, 000 sq.m. All halls are situated at the ground floor, open-air site is available for special events. Event halls have all the characteristics for the successful implementation of the events. Location, different shapes and high standard equipment can be flexibly combined to meet customers individual needs

19 Special venues Tbilisi Concert Hall Tbilisi Concert Hall, is the biggest concert hall in Georgia with the capacity of over 2251 seats. Today, the property is operated by the International Events company. The building was refurbished and equipped with modern sound and lightening technologies a few years ago and now is considered to be one of the biggest and popular venues for events in Tbilisi. 1 Meliqishvili Str. Tbilisi Tbilisi Opera & Ballet Theatre Tbilisi Zakaria Paliashvili Opera and Ballet State Theatre is a certain symbol of centuries-old unique culture of Georgia. In 01 was the 0th anniversary of the Theatre. The eastern, Pseudo-Moresque style building, which is furnished by arrowed arches, decorative towers, stalactite decorations and ornamental patterns, can hold up to 1,0 spectators. 25 Rustaveli Ave. Tbilisi Rose Garden Hall The Rose Garden offers a relaxing atmosphere for leisure activities, the area of the garden also incorporates a multifunctional Garden Hall, with the area of 500 square meters, which can accommodate up to 0 people. Rustaveli Theatre The building was originally found in 1879 as an Artists Society. The walls of the basement of the building were painted by numerous famous Georgian artists, Russian theater set designer Serge Sudeikin and others. Unfortunately, the part of it was ruined during the Soviet rule. In 1921, the building was renamed Rustaveli Theatre. The building was thoroughly renovated during The big hall has 786 places, the small 0 and the experimental Rustaveli Ave. Tbilisi Kote Marjanishvili State Drama Theatre Kote Marjanishvili State Drama Theatre was established in Kutaisi in It was founded by a great director and reformer of the Georgian theatre arts Kote Marjanishvili. There are three stages within the building: the main stage with the 436 seats, the roof with 2 seats and new stage 136 seats. 8 Marjanishvili Str. Tbilisi Kutaisi Meliton Balanchivadze State Opera & Ballet The Opera House was founded in Kutaisi in renowned for its musical traditions, this is the place where Zakaria Paliashvili was born and where the famous Georgian song Suliko was performed for the first time. The aforementioned building can host up to 418 persons. 17 St. Nino Str. Kutaisi Tbilisi Sports Palace Tbilisi Sports Palace is an indoor sports arena situated in the center of Tbilisi. The building usually hosts basketball, handball, judo, tennis, boxing and other sports tournaments. It was constructed in 1961 and renovated in 07. Today, the building can host up to 9,000 people over its area of more than,000 square meters. Batumi Art & Music Centre Batumi Art and Music Centre is located on the seaside, in the historical part of the city. It was reconstructed in 11. Exhibition hall, which is located on the third floor of the building, can be used as an exhibition space, as well as for holding various events. The hall is equipped with 10 seats. 1 Odissey Dimitriadi Str. Batumi /22 06/ Agmashenebeli Ave. (Rose Garden) /(591) rosegarden.office@gmail.com 1 Twentysix May Sq. Tbilisi office@sportspalace.ge

20 Tourism Opportunities Eco-Tourism Caving & Canyoning Georgia, especially its western part, contains an amazing array of cave systems, from underground rivers and lakes to enormous caverns and limestone scenery. Trek or ride to some of the many canyons that make up the landscape, also visit the 0 million year old dinosaur footprint imprinted on a rock in Sataplia caves (Imereti region). Canyoning is relatively new in Georgia, but is has already gained plenty of popularity, with several routes already set up and numerous others to be explored. Spa & Wellness More than 00 springs of mineral waters are present on the territory of Georgia. The spa town of Borjomi located 0km (93 miles) west of Tbilisi was developed by Tsar Nicholas in the 19th century, and even today is renowned for its mineral water Borjomi. Spa resort Tskhaltubo is located in western Georgia, 7km from Kutaisi and 250km from Tbilisi. Tskhaltubo is renowned for its waters, which has numerous health benefits. Tbilisi is famous for its 19th century dome-shaped sulfur bath houses, located in the old district of the city. Over the centuries the bath houses have hosted various poets, writers, musicians and kings. Mountaineering Georgia is rapidly becoming one of the most attractive destinations for mountaineers, with twelve mountains that are higher than Mont Blanc and some of the most spectacular peaks in Europe, Georgia s wild nature never fails to disappoint its visitors. The country offers attractions for all levels of mountaineers, there are special locations for amateur climbers and for professionals: 5,000 meters of Kazbegi and Georgia s highest mountain - Shkhara await. Georgia s natural environment is one of the most unique in the world. National parks and protected areas cover more than 7% of the country. Herewith, 75% of the all protected areas are covered with forests. There are 14 national reserves, national parks, 41 natural monuments and 2 protected landscapes in Georgia. The Georgian landscape is especially suited for eco-tourism, due to its relatively unspoiled status and absence of mass tourism. Horse Riding One of the best ways to experience Georgia s stunning natural beauty is to take a horse rides through the countryside. Green forests, mountain passes and gorgeous valleys are awaiting potential visitors all year-round. 4x4 Adventure Considering Georgia s small size and diversity, contrasting landscapes are located in close proximity of each other: deserts, sea, subtropics, tea plantations, high mountains etc. Travelling in a 4 4 vehicle, almost everything can be seen within a day or so. With your own very eyes, see the breathtaking scenery change moment by moment, and capture the essence of what it feels like to be in Georgia. Mountain Biking With so many fabulous mountains and well established paths, Georgia is a perfect place for mountain biking. The country offers trails for all level of athletes and armature bikers. Race along high ridges or amble down elegant valleys; the choices are limitless. Rafting & Kayaking Considering the country s monotonous terrain, Georgia offers plenty of opportunities for Rafting and Kayaking. The water races from surrounding glaciers and mountain peaks, from as high as 5,000 meters to sea level. There are many tours which are organized in a safe and secure manner, so that you can experience this incredible adventure for yourself. Entertainment Throughout the year numerous festivals, parades, expositions and events take place in Georgia. The country is renowned for abundance of music, theater, cultural and entertainment events, as well as quality nightlife. The largest national event is Rtveli which is a traditional vineyard harvest holiday, accompanied by feasts, musical events and other celebrations. It usually takes place in late September in eastern Georgia and in mid-october in western Georgia. For the upcoming events visit the following website:

21 Food & Wine Georgia is considered to be the birthplace of wine. Wine has been produced in the country for over 8,000 years, and this is what the BBC called the world s longest-running unbroken wine tradition. Georgian way of winemaking - in clay pots called Qvevri - belongs to UNESCO Intangible Heritage. It s difficult to enjoy quality wine without delicious cousin and Georgia prevails in this regard as well. The country s cuisine offers a variety of dishes, with numerous tasty herbs and spices. Georgian food and drinks were ranked 4th in Europe, right after Italy, France and Spain

22 MOLDOVA Chisinau ROMANIA Bucharest TURKEY Ankara BLACK SEA SEA OF AZOV UKRAINE Kyiv GEORGIAN NATIONAL TOURISM ADMINISTRATION 4 Sanapiro str, 05, Tbilisi, Georgia Tel: Fax: info@gnta.ge USEFUL WEBSITES Travel Information IRAN Baku ARMENIA Yerevan AZERBAIJAN Batumi Tbilisi GEORGIA CASPIAN SEA RUSSIA KAZAKHSTAN Visa Requirements Valid passports are required for visitors of all nationalities. Georgia has a liberal visa regime; with visa waiver for the citizens of 94 countries for shortterm visits (Not exceeding 90 calendar days in any 1-day period). For more information please visit the website of the Consular Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia: Accommodation Major cities in Georgia offer hotels of all categories from international four-star to home-stays. In rural regions accommodation is primarily three-star family hotels, bed and breakfast and home-stays. Electricity Electric current - 2 Volts, 50 Hz. EU standard plugs work throughout Georgia. Not For Sale Communications The country code is +995 and the area code for Tbilisi is 322. Georgian mobile operators (Geocell, MagtiCom and Beeline) cover almost all of the country s territory and there are many WI-FI zones that enable visitors to use the internet for free. Toll-free hotline for tourists The hotline operated by Georgian National Tourism Administration can be reached toll-free at Health For emergency services please call 1 - the Emergency Management Department. For more information please visit: Printed in Georgia,, 1 st edition

23 Welcome to Georgia! GEORGIAN NATIONAL TOURISM ADMINISTRATION