Now, I’ve had my fair share of mishaps and faux pas in this stunning Caucasian nation, and I’m here to make sure you don’t repeat my blunders. So, grab a glass of Georgian wine (trust me, you’ll thank me later), and let’s embark on this journey of travel wisdom together!
1. Underestimating the Power of Georgian Hospitality
Picture this: You’re strolling through the charming streets of Tbilisi, and suddenly, a local invites you to their home for dinner. Your first instinct might be to politely decline, thinking it’s just a formality. Big mistake! Georgians are renowned for their hospitality, and that invitation is 100% genuine.
I made this mistake on my first trip, and I still regret missing out on what could have been an amazing cultural experience. So, lesson number one: embrace the warmth of Georgian hospitality. Just be prepared for copious amounts of food, wine, and toast!
Travel Tip: Learn a few Georgian phrases like “Gmadlobt” (Thank you) and “Gaumarjos” (Cheers). Your hosts will be thrilled!
2. Rushing Through Tbilisi
Ah, Tbilisi – a city where ancient history and hipster cool collide in the most delightful way. Many travelers make the mistake of treating Georgia’s capital as just a stopover. Don’t fall into this trap!
Tbilisi deserves at least 3-4 days of your itinerary. From the winding lanes of the Old Town to the ultra-modern Peace Bridge, from sulfur baths to funky cafes, Tbilisi is a city that reveals its charms slowly. Give it time, and it’ll steal your heart.
Sustainable Travel Hack: Explore Tbilisi on foot or by using its efficient metro system. It’s eco-friendly and allows you to soak in the city’s atmosphere.
Check out things to do in Georgia here!
3. Skipping the Wine Regions
Georgia is the birthplace of wine, with an 8,000-year-old winemaking tradition. Skipping the wine regions would be like going to Paris and not seeing the Eiffel Tower. Don’t make this rookie mistake!
The Kakheti region, in particular, is a must-visit for wine enthusiasts. Picture rolling hills covered in vineyards, ancient monasteries, and quaint villages where wine is still made in traditional Qvevri (clay jars buried underground).
Eco-Friendly Tip: Consider joining a small group tour to the wine regions. It’s more sustainable than driving yourself and allows you to fully enjoy the wine tasting! Check out some great options on GetYourGuide.com.
4. Overlooking Georgian Cuisine
If you stick to familiar international dishes in Georgia, you’re making a huge mistake. Georgian cuisine is a revelation – a perfect blend of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors with its own unique twist.
Don’t leave without trying khachapuri (cheese-filled bread), khinkali (dumplings), and mtsvadi (grilled meat skewers). And for the vegetarians out there, Georgian cuisine offers a plethora of delicious meat-free options too!
Foodie Tip: Join a cooking class to learn how to make these dishes yourself. It’s a great way to bring a taste of Georgia back home with you.
Join the Georgian Cooking Class with Khinkali and Khachapuri here!
5. Ignoring the Mountain Regions
Georgia’s mountains are nothing short of spectacular. Svaneti, Kazbegi, Tusheti – these regions offer breathtaking landscapes, ancient tower villages, and some of the best hiking in Europe. Missing out on the mountains is a cardinal sin in Georgia.
I made this mistake on my first trip, sticking mainly to the lowlands. When I finally ventured into the mountains on a subsequent visit, I was kicking myself for not doing it sooner.
Sustainable Travel Tip: When hiking, stick to marked trails and practice Leave No Trace principles. Let’s keep these stunning mountains pristine for future generations!
Visit my blog post about Kazbegi, Georgia: A Hiker’s Paradise, and plan your own hike!
6. Not Learning a Few Words of Georgian
Yes, Georgian has its own unique alphabet that looks like a bunch of squiggles to the untrained eye. And yes, it’s a challenging language. But making an effort to learn a few basic phrases will go a long way in Georgia.
Georgians are incredibly appreciative when foreigners attempt their language. Even a simple “Gamarjoba” (Hello) can open doors and hearts.
Language Hack: Download a Georgian language app before your trip. Just a few minutes of practice each day can make a big difference.
7. Underestimating the Religious Significance
Georgia is one of the oldest Christian countries in the world, and religion plays a significant role in daily life. A common mistake is treating churches and monasteries purely as tourist attractions.
Remember, these are active places of worship. Dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees), be respectful, and ask before taking photos inside churches.
Cultural Tip: Women, pack a scarf in your day bag. Some churches require women to cover their heads.
8. Mistiming Your Visit to the Sulfur Baths
Tbilisi’s sulfur baths are a must-try experience. But timing is everything! The mistake many travelers make is going in the evening when it’s most crowded.
For a more relaxing experience, visit in the morning or early afternoon. You’ll have more space to yourself and can fully enjoy the therapeutic benefits of the mineral-rich waters.
Eco-Friendly Reminder: Bring your own towel and flip-flops to reduce waste. Many baths provide these, but it’s more sustainable to bring your own.
9. Overpacking
I get it, you want to be prepared. But trust me, overpacking is a common mistake that’ll only weigh you down in Georgia. The country has a varied climate, but unless you’re doing serious mountain trekking, you don’t need a ton of gear.
Pack versatile clothing that can be layered, comfortable walking shoes, and leave room in your suitcase for souvenirs (trust me, you’ll want to bring back some wine and chacha).
Packing Tip: Invest in packing cubes. They’re a game-changer for organizing your suitcase.
10. Forgetting to Negotiate in Taxis
Taxis in Georgia, especially in Tbilisi, don’t always use meters. A common mistake is hopping in without agreeing on a price first. This can lead to unpleasant surprises at the end of your ride.
Always negotiate the fare before starting your journey. Better yet, use ride-hailing apps like Bolt or Yandex, which are widely available in major cities.
Sustainable Option: For shorter distances, consider walking or using Tbilisi’s efficient public transportation system. It’s better for the environment and your wallet!
11. Missing Out on Georgia’s Festivals
Georgia loves a good celebration, and timing your visit to coincide with a festival can elevate your trip from great to unforgettable. Many travelers make the mistake of not checking the festival calendar when planning their trip.
From the wine harvest festival in Kakheti to the Tushetoba festival in the mountains, there’s always something happening. These events offer a unique glimpse into Georgian culture and traditions.
Travel Hack: Check Georgia’s official tourism website for a list of festivals and events before planning your trip.
12. Assuming You Need a Car
While having a car can be convenient for exploring rural areas, it’s a mistake to assume you need one for your entire Georgia trip. In fact, driving in Georgian cities can be stressful due to the sometimes chaotic traffic.
For city exploration and even trips to popular destinations like Kazbegi, public transportation is often more convenient and definitely more eco-friendly.
Sustainable Travel Tip: If you do need a car for part of your trip, consider renting a hybrid or electric vehicle. Check out options on DiscoverCars.com.
13. Not Carrying Cash
While card payments are becoming more common, especially in Tbilisi, it’s a mistake to rely solely on your credit card in Georgia. Many small shops, cafes, and especially places in rural areas still operate on a cash-only basis.
Always have some Georgian Lari on hand. It’ll save you from awkward situations and allow you to support small local businesses.
Money Tip: Use ATMs attached to banks for the best exchange rates. Avoid currency exchange booths at the airport, which often have poor rates.
Download Revolut App for your best currency exchange rates!
14. Rushing Your Trip
Georgia may be a small country, but it’s packed with diverse landscapes, rich history, and unique experiences. One of the biggest mistakes you can make is trying to cram too much into a short trip.
I’ve seen travelers attempt to “do” Georgia in a week, rushing from Tbilisi to Kazbegi to Batumi. Trust me, you’ll enjoy your trip much more if you slow down and immerse yourself in each place.
Sustainable Travel Reminder: Slow travel not only allows for deeper experiences but is also more environmentally friendly. Win-win!
15. Not Booking Accommodations in Advance (Especially in Peak Season)
Georgia’s popularity as a tourist destination has skyrocketed in recent years. If you’re traveling during the peak summer months or during major festivals, not booking your accommodations in advance can be a big mistake.
This is especially true for popular areas like Tbilisi’s Old Town or guesthouses in Svaneti. Don’t risk being left without a place to stay!
Booking Tip: For the best deals and a wide selection of accommodations, from cozy guesthouses to eco-lodges, check out Booking.com.
Your Georgian Adventure Awaits!
There you have it, folks – 15 mistakes to avoid when traveling in Georgia. But don’t let this list intimidate you. Georgia is an incredibly welcoming country, and even if you make a few missteps, the warmth of the Georgian people will more than make up for it.
Remember, the best travels often come with a few bumps in the road. It’s all part of the adventure! So pack your bags (but not too much), brush up on your Georgian phrases, and get ready for an unforgettable journey through this gem of the Caucasus.
Before you go, why not check out some great travel gear to support your Georgian adventure? Head over to Amazon for a selection of travel essentials. And don’t forget to book your eco-friendly accommodations on Booking.com, find sustainable tours on GetYourGuide.com, and if you need a car, grab an eco-friendly option from DiscoverCars.com.
Here’s to your amazing Georgian adventure! May your glass be always full of wine, your plate piled high with khachapuri, and your heart brimming with the joy of discovery. Safe travels, and don’t forget to raise a glass for me!
Gaumarjos! (Cheers!)
