Facts about Georgia

Hey guys, in this video we're going to talk about Georgia. From the Black Sea to the Caucasus Mountains, the country of Georgia is packed with stunning landscapes, intriguing cities, and centuries of history, and now it has become a tourist destination. Today, the population of the country is 3 million and 700 thousand people.

To fully appreciate what Georgia was able to achieve since it became independent, you've got to know what it was like just 20 years ago. And back then, the average salary was about $50 a month. Crime was rampant and in some areas, electricity was available just two hours per day.

Then in 2003 came the Rose Revolution, and the opposition party of Mikhail Saakashvili came to power, and that was the beginning of the new Georgia.

Upon arrival, the first thing that's going to surprise you is the road infrastructure. They built modern highways connecting major cities. The highway system doesn't cover all the cities yet, but they're getting there. Along the roads, you see modern rest areas with restaurants and even wind turbines.

Second thing that's going to surprise you is the police. If you're familiar with ex-USSR countries, you know that bribes and corruption are ubiquitous, and Georgia was no exception. Until they did a police reform, and the public trust in the law enforcement skyrocketed to 87% from just 5%. The old police staff were let go, and the new police officers were recruited. Today, they can even speak English, which is helpful.

Third is the lack of bureaucracy. Georgia has achieved remarkable progress in recent years, currently ranking 6th globally in ease of doing business, surpassing the US, Britain, and Norway. The reduction in paperwork means selling an apartment now takes less than an hour.

Efforts have also been dedicated to developing international tourism. Just 15 years ago, places like Kakheti and Svaneti were relatively unknown, but they have since become popular destinations.

Let's explore some of the exciting regions of Georgia:

If you're a wine enthusiast, Kakheti in eastern Georgia is a must-visit. Known as the cradle of wine, Kakheti boasts the largest wine region in Georgia, with numerous vineyards and historic sites like Sighnaghi, renowned for its scenic landscapes and charming cobblestone streets.

For mountain lovers, Kazbegi along the Georgian Military Road offers breathtaking views and outdoor activities. Passing by the picturesque Jhinvali Water Reservoir and Ananuri Castle, Kazbegi leads to Gudauri, Georgia's premier ski resort offering skiing, heli-skiing, spa treatments, and more across 64 kilometers of ski runs.

Beyond skiing, the Georgian Military Road leads to Kazbek, a major Caucasus mountain known for the Gergeti Trinity Church perched 2,200 meters high in Stepantsminda, surrounded by snowy peaks.

Nature enthusiasts should visit Borjomi, famous for its mineral springs in Borjomi Central Park, while adventure seekers will find Svaneti in northwest Georgia captivating. Mestia, the region's main town, features ancient defensive structures and preserves the unique Svan culture, dating back centuries.

Moving on to Georgia's cities:

Gori, with its medieval Gori Fortress and Stalin Museum, offers insight into Georgian history. Nearby Aplistsikhe boasts ancient caves dating to the Bronze Age.

Kutaisi, Georgia's third-largest city, known as the city of May and Roses, is situated on the Rioni River. It served as Georgia's parliamentary seat from 2012 to 2018 and is famed for attractions like Colchis Fountain and Gelati Cathedral.

Batumi, a vibrant Black Sea resort, has transformed into a tourist hotspot with its renovated 19th-century buildings, Europe Square, and the scenic Batumi Boulevard stretching along the coast, offering stunning sunsets and a lively atmosphere.

In conclusion, Georgia emerges as a vibrant destination rich in history, natural beauty, and cultural diversity. From the wine region of Kakheti to the remote splendor of Svaneti, and from the modern allure of Tbilisi to the ancient fortresses of Gori and Kutaisi, Georgia offers a tapestry of experiences for every traveler. The country's remarkable transformation since the early 2000s highlights its commitment to progress, evident in improved infrastructure, streamlined bureaucracy, and a burgeoning tourism industry. As Georgia continues to open its doors to the world, its unique charm and hospitality promise unforgettable adventures for all who visit.