The Start of my Global Journey

Exploring the Hidden Gem of the Caucasus

Hello, fellow wanderers and uncharted travel enthusiasts! I’m excited to share that my journey around the world has officially begun, and my first stop is the captivating country of Georgia. I’ve just moved here, and over the next year, I’ll be exploring this amazing destination in depth. While I’ll be based in the vibrant coastal city of Batumi, I plan to travel around Georgia, exploring its other cities, regions, and even nearby countries. I’ll be updating you regularly with all the interesting insights, experiences, and tips I gather along the way!

Why Georgia?

Georgia is often a country that gets overlooked by travelers, but it’s one of the most unique and diverse places I’ve visited. Nestled between Europe and Asia, it’s a place where cultures blend, history runs deep, and nature takes center stage. It’s been a fascinating first stop on my world tour, and I’m already in awe of its beauty and charm.

Why Batumi?

Batumi is an excellent destination for solo female travelers, offering a combination of safety, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. The city is known for its welcoming atmosphere, where people are friendly and open to tourists. With a low crime rate, Batumi is generally considered a safe place to explore, even at night.

The charming seaside location allows you to enjoy leisurely walks along the Black Sea coast, with its beautiful beaches and scenic promenades. The city is compact, making it easy to navigate, and public transportation is reliable. Whether you’re visiting the Batumi Boulevard, strolling through the lush Botanical Garden, or checking out the city’s mix of modern architecture and historic sites, there’s always something to see and do.

Batumi also offers a variety of cafes, restaurants, and bars where you can enjoy local Georgian cuisine and socialize with fellow travelers. Solo female travelers can feel comfortable exploring the city independently, as it’s not overwhelmingly crowded or chaotic.

Additionally, Batumi’s diverse cultural scene, including festivals, art galleries, and performances, provides plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture while meeting new people. Overall, Batumi combines safety, beauty, and an inviting atmosphere, making it a great choice for solo female travelers looking for adventure and relaxation.

Traveling Around Georgia

While Batumi will be my home for the year, I’m excited to venture out and explore the many other fascinating cities and regions that Georgia has to offer. The country may be small, but it’s full of surprises, and I’ll be traveling to places like:

Tbilisi: The capital and largest city of Georgia, Tbilisi is a fascinating mix of old and new, with its cobblestone streets, ancient churches, and vibrant nightlife. I’m especially looking forward to diving into the local art scene and experiencing Tbilisi’s warm hospitality.
Kutaisi: Georgia’s second-largest city, known for its UNESCO-listed Gelati Monastery and the nearby Prometheus Caves. I’ve heard the food here is amazing, and I can’t wait to try it!
Mtskheta: One of Georgia’s most ancient towns, known for its historical sites like the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and Jvari Monastery, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Mtskheta is often called the “heart” of Georgia, and I’m excited to learn more about its deep religious and cultural significance.
Mestia: Nestled in the Svaneti region, Mestia is a picturesque town surrounded by towering mountains and ancient watchtowers. The scenery here is breathtaking, and I can’t wait to explore its stunning landscape and learn about the unique Svan culture.
Ushguli: Located at the foot of Mount Shkhara, Ushguli is one of the highest inhabited villages in Europe and is famous for its medieval architecture and incredible mountain views. I’m excited to visit this remote village, where history and nature come together in a truly remarkable way.
Vardzia: A cave city built into the cliffs of the Erusheti Mountain, Vardzia is an ancient monastery complex that dates back to the 12th century. Exploring its caves and learning about its fascinating history will definitely be a highlight of my trip!

As I travel around, I’ll be sure to update you with tips on the best places to visit, eat, and explore in each city, sharing everything from hidden gems to popular landmarks.

Exploring Nearby Countries

Georgia’s location makes it the perfect gateway for exploring other fascinating countries in the Caucasus and beyond. Throughout the year, I plan to visit some nearby destinations, including:

Armenia: Just to the south of Georgia, Armenia is known for its ancient monasteries, stunning landscapes, and unique culture.
Turkey: To the southwest of Georgia lies Turkey, a country full of history, diverse landscapes, and incredible food.
Azerbaijan: To the southeast of Georgia, Azerbaijan offers a mix of modern cities and ancient sites.

Immersing in Georgian Culture

As I settle in and travel around Georgia, I’m looking forward to immersing myself in the country’s rich traditions and customs. Georgia is known for its incredibly welcoming people, and I’ve already experienced firsthand how warm and friendly the locals are. The country’s unique culture blends influences from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, creating a fascinating mosaic of traditions, especially when it comes to food, wine, and music.

Georgia is also a wine lover’s paradise. The country has an ancient winemaking tradition that spans over 8,000 years, and I’m excited to share my discoveries from various wineries and vineyards across the region. I’ll be tasting wines that are as old as the country itself and learning about the fascinating process of winemaking in the traditional qvevri method (fermenting wine in clay vessels buried underground).

Conclusion: The Start of My Global Journey

So here I am, starting my year in Georgia, with Batumi as my home base and the rest of the country (and nearby countries) to explore. Over the next year, I’ll be discovering more about this beautiful country, its culture, and its people, and I can’t wait to share it all with you. Whether you’re planning to visit or just curious about this fascinating corner of the world, I’ll be posting regular updates with everything I learn.

Stay tuned for more stories, tips, and adventures from Batumi and beyond, as I continue to explore Georgia and the surrounding regions!

Happy travels!

Danielle