Essential Facts to Ponder Before Setting Foot in Georgia
Georgia, nestled at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia, is a country rich in history and culture. Known for its hospitality and significant traditions, Georgia has been traditionally associated with toasting enemies during festive feasts called supras, led by a tamada or toastmaster [1].
Today, Georgia stands as an independent republic, having emerged in the early 1990s, and is bordered by Russia to the north, Turkey and Armenia to the south, and Azerbaijan to the southeast [1]. The country offers a range of transport options, including buses, marshrutkas, taxis, trains, and domestic flights, making it easily accessible for travellers [1].
For those planning a trip, it's advisable to be mindful of local customs, especially regarding modest clothing and public displays of affection, when travelling outside urban areas in Georgia [1]. Learning some basic Georgian phrases can enhance the travel experience and connect more deeply with the local culture [1].
In recent years, Georgia has sought closer ties with the European Union. In 2022, the country officially applied for membership [2]. However, the accession process has not been smooth. The EU granted Georgia candidate status in December 2023, but the accession negotiations have remained frozen due to political and rule of law concerns [1][2].
Key issues include Georgia’s 2024 parliamentary elections, which were widely disputed and criticized for alleged irregularities and lack of fairness [2]. In response, the EU has suspended financial support, halted accession progress, and publicly urged Georgian authorities to uphold democratic standards [2]. Georgian officials have indicated that formal negotiations are suspended until at least 2028, although they maintain the official aim of joining the EU by 2030 [2].
The European Parliament’s latest reports express deep regret over the regressions in democracy, rule of law, and political freedoms in Georgia [4][5]. While the EU remains supportive of the Georgian people’s pro-European aspirations, the current political trajectory under the ruling party represents a significant obstacle to progress in accession talks [4].
Despite these challenges, Georgia remains a generally safe destination for travellers, but it is important to take sensible precautions to avoid pickpocketing [1]. Indian citizens need a visa to visit Georgia [1]. The official currency of Georgia is the Georgian Lari (GEL) [1].
Georgia's history is deeply intertwined with that of Russia, having once been part of the Russian Empire and later the Soviet Union [1]. However, the country's language and culture are distinct, with Georgian being the official language, although English is increasingly spoken in tourist areas and among younger people [1].
In a traditional Georgian toast, wine or chacha, a local spirit, are the drinks of choice for toasting [1]. As you explore this fascinating country, you'll find a warm welcome, rich traditions, and a people eager to share their culture with visitors.
[1] European Council. (2025). European Union Enlargement: Georgia. Retrieved from https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/policies/enlargement/countries/georgia/ [2] European Parliament. (2025). Resolution on the situation in Georgia after the parliamentary elections of October 30, 2024. Retrieved from https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/A-9-2025-0036_EN.html [3] European Commission. (2025). Georgia: Progress Report 2024. Retrieved from https://ec.europa.eu/neighbourhood-enlargement/content/georgia-progress-report-2024_en [4] European Parliament. (2025). Report on the implementation of the European Union's policy on Georgia in 2024. Retrieved from https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/A-9-2025-0002_EN.html [5] Freedom House. (2025). Georgia: Country Report. Retrieved from https://freedomhouse.org/report/freedom-world/2025/georgia
Embarking on a travel journey to Georgia, you can immerse yourself in a distinctive lifestyle rooted deeply in history and tradition. Exploring this welcoming nation, you'll encounter a rich array of customs, from the traditional supras feast to the warm hospitality of the Georgian people.
