Tbilisi Podcast

Join us as we explore the fascinating UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Georgia, delving into the rich history and cultural significance of three remarkable locations: Jvari Monastery, Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, and the medieval village of Ushguli. Discover why these sites are celebrated for their architectural grandeur and historical importance, while also learning about the unfortunate loss of Bagrati Cathedral's UNESCO status due to modern renovations that compromised its authenticity. We discuss the unique features of each site, including Jvari's breathtaking views over the confluence of two rivers and the stunning frescoes found in the Galati Monastery. Throughout the episode, we sprinkle in a bit of humor and personal anecdotes, making it not only informative but also entertaining. Whether you're planning a visit or just curious about Georgia's cultural heritage, this episode brings you closer to understanding the beauty and significance of these historic treasures.Links referenced in this episode:foodfuntravel.comhttps://eatthistours.com/tour/kutaisi-wine-tour-imereti-wine-region-food/getyourguide.comGotrip.comwanderlush.orgPrevious Episodes Mentioned: Polyphonic SingingDavid The BuilderGeorgia Winter Guide

Discover the wonders of Georgia in winter, where the charm of snow-capped mountains meets cozy experiences like winter wine tours and thrilling outdoor adventures. This episode dives into the unique winter activities available, from skiing at Gudauri to exploring the serene beauty of Bakuriani, perfect for families and beginners. We discuss how Georgia is not just a summer destination; its winter offerings are rich and varied, including delicious seasonal dishes and festive celebrations. With tips on where to stay, eat, and enjoy the local culture, we give you compelling reasons to experience Georgia's winter magic. Whether you're a ski enthusiast or someone who prefers to sip wine by a warm fireplace, there's something for everyone in this beautiful country during the colder months.Winter in Georgia is a hidden gem waiting to be explored, offering a diverse range of activities that cater to both adventure seekers and those looking for a more relaxed experience. We dive into the myriad of winter activities available, highlighting the incredible skiing opportunities at resorts like Gudauri, where the snow quality rivals that of the Alps. With affordable lift passes and relatively short queues, skiing becomes accessible for everyone from beginners to seasoned pros. We also discuss the charm of winter wine tours, where visitors can enjoy the local culinary delights and cozy up by the fire, sipping on mulled wine while taking in the stunning winter landscapes. For those considering a visit, We also provide practical tips, such as the best times to travel, what to expect in terms of weather, and insights into local customs during the winter months. The goal is to encourage you all to embrace the winter magic of Georgia, from the snow-covered mountains to the warm hospitality found in Tbilisi's cozy wineries. Whether it's enjoying a ski day or indulging in a wine-tasting tour, this episode makes a compelling case for exploring Georgia during the winter season, promising an unforgettable experience.Takeaways: Georgia is an underrated winter destination with numerous ski resorts and activities. Winter wine tours in Georgia offer unique seasonal experiences and delicious local wines. The ski resort Goudari is affordable and less crowded than popular European resorts. Tbilisi in winter boasts beautiful decorations and a festive atmosphere with Christmas markets. Winter in Georgia provides opportunities for both adventurous skiing and relaxing wine tasting. Exploring the cultural heritage and unique cuisine of the Svanetti region adds richness to winter trips.

Disclaimer: At Tbilisi Podcast, we stand with the people of Georgia in their fight for their voices to be heard and for an end to the violence against citizens who speak out against the government. We support the ongoing efforts for change and recognise the bravery of those fighting for a better future.However, it's important to acknowledge that the protests are concentrated in specific areas of major cities, and many people across the country still rely on tourism dollars, especially during the winter months. That's why, despite the challenging situation, we've decided to continue releasing our latest podcast episodes, highlighting the incredible beauty and warmth of Georgia – a country that remains a vibrant, welcoming destination.Tourism is crucial for many Georgians to support their families and communities, and without it, they face even greater hardship in their struggle for change. We urge you to support small Georgian businesses where you can, and enjoy the show as we continue to share the rich culture and resilience of this wonderful country.The Tbilisi Podcast dives into the fascinating world of the Tbilisi Sulphur Baths, a must-visit experience for anyone traveling to Georgia. These historic baths, steeped in legend and tradition, offer a unique blend of relaxation and social interaction, making them the heartbeat of the city's culture. Hosts Meg and Tom share their top picks for bathhouses, along with essential etiquette tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit. They also discuss the medicinal benefits of sulfur water, which is believed to alleviate joint pain and improve skin health. With humor and insight, they provide a comprehensive guide to navigating the steamy delights of Tbilisi's famous baths, ensuring that travelers leave with unforgettable memories.Links referenced in this episode:foodfuntravel.comexpathub.geeatthistours.comRead our Full Article Here: https://eatthistours.com/sulfur-baths-in-tbilisi/

Join Meg and Tom in this NEW episode of The Tbilisi Podcast, as they return after a year-long hiatus! This time, they dive deep into the enchanting town of Signagi, Kakheti. Discover why Signagi is known as the City of Love, explore its rich history, stunning views, and of course, its incredible wine culture. Perfect for anyone planning to visit Georgia or simply curious about this charming region.Show Notes:Welcome Back!Introduction by Meg and Tom.Updates on the busy tour season.Appreciation for listener messages and support.About Signagi:Overview of Signagi's unique charm and historical significance.City walls: panoramic views of the Caucasus Mountains.Signagi's transformation over the years, from a small town to a tourist hotspot.Historical Highlights:Brief history of Signagi and its establishment by King Erekle II in 1762.The significance of the city walls and its strategic importance.Things to Do in Signagi:Walk the City Walls: Enjoy breathtaking views.Visit the Signagi Museum: Featuring works by Niko Pirosmani.Wine Tasting:Kerovani: Known for small-batch natural wines.Cradle of Wine: Experimental wines by Paul, an American winemaker.Okros Wine: Great wines with a restaurant offering stunning views.Beyond Wine:Lost Ridge: A microbrewery offering great beer and boutique accommodations.Dining in Signagi:Amo and The Terrace: Both offering amazing views and delicious Georgian cuisine.Nearby Attractions:Bodbe Monastery: Historical and religious significance, final resting place of Saint Nino.Kardanakhi Wine Factory: A bit of dark tourism with its old Qvevris.The City of Love:The story behind Signagi's 24-hour wedding chapel and its romantic charm.Practical Tips:Best times to visit for spectacular views.Various travel options to reach Signagi (tours, hire a driver, Marshutkas).Recommended accommodations from guest houses to boutique hotels.Final Thoughts:Encouragement to explore Signagi and experience its unique offerings.Acknowledgment of listeners and a tease of future episodes.Resources and Links:Eat This ToursBook tours to Signagi and other Georgian destinations.Food Fun TravelArticles and guides about Georgian food, wine, and travel.Getting Married in GeorgiaSighnaghi GuideSighnaghi Winter Wine TourConnect with us at tbilisipodcast.com for all relevant social media links, join our email newsletter, and discover more about travel, tours, and expat services in Georgia. This show was brought to you by

Discover the thriving wine bar scene in Tbilisi! Join Tom and Meg as they guide you through the best wine bars in the city, showcasing artisan wines, unique tastings, and incredible food pairings. From historic cellars to trendy establishments, uncover the hidden gems of Tbilisi's wine culture. Listen now and prepare to uncork the secrets of Georgian wine bars!

As the grape harvest season is upon us once again, we're revisiting our special episode where Meg & Tom delve into the heart of Georgia's renowned wine celebration: Rtveli. Discover what Rtveli truly is, the diverse experiences it offers, and so much more.Want to immerse yourself further? For tour bookings and a detailed article on Rtveli, visit: https://eatthistours.com/rtveli/

This episode is all about Where To Visit In Georgia [Pt 2] showcasing some hidden gems and must-visit locations in this beautiful country.

Get ready to dive into the awesome world of Georgia in this super fun 2-part series with your hosts, Meg & Tom. They're spilling the beans on the absolute Best Places in Georgia that you gotta add to your travel wish list!In Part One, they're gonna take you on a wild ride through the most popular hotspots and some secret gems you didn't even know existed. From the buzzing streets of Tbilisi to the cool coastal vibes of Batumi in the Adjara region, they've got you covered.Hold on tight as they whisk you away to the stunning mountains of Svaneti and the land of heavenly wines, Kakheti. You won't believe the hidden treasures they've uncovered, like Bolnisi & Kvemo Kartli, and the lesser-known regions of Shida Kartli & Gori – they're absolute must-sees!Now, here's your mission, should you choose to accept it – show some love to this episode by rating and reviewing it! Let's get more folks hooked on the Tbilisi podcast and share the Georgia travel magic with all our friends and family planning a trip. Thanks a bunch in advance – your support means the world to us!So, grab your snacks, kick back, and let Meg & Tom be your guides to an unforgettable Georgia adventure. Happy listening and happy travels, everyone!

In this episode of Tbilisi Podcast, hosts Tom and Meg explore the life and legacy of Georgian artist Niko Pirosmani. They discuss his unconventional techniques, his impact on Georgian national identity, and his infamous tavern paintings. They also touch on the uncertain history surrounding his death and the enduring popularity of his artwork.

Discovering Georgia's Beautiful SeasonsOn today's episode, we will be discussing the different attractions and activities available in Georgia, the best times to visit, and what to expect in terms of climate and weather.

In this episode, Meg and Tom explore the life and legacy of King David, a legendary figure in Georgia's history. They delve into his military victories, religious tolerance, and contributions to the Georgian Golden Era.From the Battle of Didgori to his efforts towards religious acceptance and abolishing taxes, they discuss how King David solidified Georgia's position as a diverse and multiethnic kingdom.They also touch on King David's canonization as a saint and how his remembrance brings about the rebirth of a nation.If you're interested in exploring the life of one of Georgia's most acclaimed figures, tune in to this episode of the podcast.

In this episode of the Tbilisi podcast, Tom and special guest Emily Lush from wander-lush.org share a wealth of interesting information and recommendations for anyone planning to visit the Imereti region of Georgia. They share several alternatives to popular tourist destinations, and they also suggest exploring off-the-beaten-track locations such as Tskaltubo, Zestafoni, and Chiatura.Whether you're a seasoned traveler or curious about Georgia, this episode of the Tbilisi podcast is sure to provide plenty of valuable information and tips to make the most of your trip.

Things to do In Kutaisi (Imereti Attractions Part 1). Emily from wander-lush.org joins Tom to discuss the best things to do in Kutaisi, the capital of Imereti Georgia.Links: 25 hidden gems, quirky attractions and non-touristy experiences - WanderlushBest Things To Do In Kutaisi - Wanderlush

In this episode, Tom chats to Baia from Red Fedora Diary about Georgian Easter Traditions. They Discuss:How Orthodox Easter is different from other Easter celebrationsCommon traditions during EasterWhat food to expect during Easter and the importance of the fasting menuand more.....Join our special Easter Supra + Wine Tour: https://fb.me/e/40JSRERFpFollow Baia's adventures:https://www.redfedoradiary.com/easter-in-georgia/https://www.facebook.com/redfedoradiaryhttps://www.instagram.com/redfedoradiary/

Tom is joined by Brian, head of real estate services at ExpatHub to discuss the Georgian market - why buy in Georgia? Where in Georgia? And advice about the purchase process and common issues faced by buyers. Show Notes: Get a FREE Consultation: https://expathub.ge/free-real-estate-consultation/Download our state of the market PDF here: https://expathub.ge/realestatepdf/Neighbourhood Guide + Podcast: https://expathub.ge/living-in-tbilisi-georgia/

In this episode, Meg and Tom reminisce about the time they decided to have a destination wedding in Tbilisi....with only 4 days to plan it!!! They also discuss how you too can get married in Georgia:What are the paperwork requirementsWhat to expect from a Georgian wedding ceremonyand more....Mentions:Fabulous wedding photographer: https://www.instagram.com/ioseb_mamniashvili_photography/Full article on Food Fun Travel: https://foodfuntravel.com/how-to-get-married-in-georgia-georgian-wedding-tbilisi/Tbilisi Free Walking Tours: https://tbilisifreewalkingtours.com

In this episode, Meg and Tom are talking about some of the companies you can use to order items from the USA, UK, China etc, and get them easily delivered to you in Tbilisi. Mentions: USA2GeorgiaKiwipostCamexGetit

In this episode, Meg and Tom talk about taking care of your furry little friends in Tbilisi. They discuss:Bringing your pets to Georgia - what to know and do before you leave homeAdopting a dog in GeorgiaRecommended Vets In Tbilisiand more.....Show Notes:Expathub Full Article: https://expathub.ge/pets-in-georgia-country/DOG - Dog Organization GeorgiaThe Georgian Society for the Protection and Safety of AnimalsTbilisi Animal and Pet Rescue - Facebook Group

In this episode, Meg and Tom are chatting about Tbilisi transport, including Tbilisi bus services and other Tbilisi public transport options to help you get around Tbilisi with ease!

In this episode, Meg and Tom discuss what is it like to spend Christmas in Tbilisi. Learn Orthodox Christmas Traditions, Tbilisi New Year, and more...

In this episode we discuss some of our favourite restaurants in Tbilisi that offer a traditional Georgian menu. If you are searching for the absolute classic of Georgian cuisine - then this is the podcast for you! Note: There may be a Tbilisi restaurant that you love that we left out.....but this is our list mwahahaha and it's just simply some of the places we love to take friends and family to when they want to eat some truly traditional Georgian food. Please remember to rate and review wherever you happen to be listening to this podcast. Your 5 star reviews help others find our show! Thanks in advance :-)

In this episode, Tom takes the lead to tell you all some of the essential details you need to know if you wish to become a Georgia resident. Important links: Expathub article: https://expathub.ge/georgian-residency-permits/Expathub services: https://expathub.ge/pricing-services/#residency

In this episode Meg and Tom finally get around to part 2 of their Day Trips from Tbilisi series. They discuss some interesting places you can visit as a day trip or overnight from Tbilisi. Places Mentioned: Bolnisi Gori Uplistsikhe Tbilisi National Park and more

In this episode Meg and Tom talk about the Top 10 Must Try Georgian Dishes. Georgian cuisine is more than just Georgian cheese bread (khachapuri) and soup dumplings (khinkali) but of course, they have to mentioned in a Top 10 list cause they're awesome!!! But they also delve into a few other delicious dishes that are a must try when you visit Georgia! if you are looking for more than 10 dishes then check out Meg & Tom's podcast The Dish here: https://foodfuntravel.com/georgian-cuisine-khachapuri-khinkali-food/

In this episode, we discuss some top tips for first timers experiencing a supra and we also finally tell our personal supra story about sleeping on bees.....

In this episode Meg and Tom discuss the history of the Supra - the traditional Georgian feast. Yum Yum! They discuss: What is a Supra? What is a Tamada? What are the different styles of Supra? Mentions: https://amzn.to/3AhrE2R (The Georgian Feast: The Vibrant Culture and Savory Food of the Republic of Georgia)

In this episode Meg & Tom talk about one of the biggest festivals that happens every year in Georgia - Rtveli the grape/wine harvest festival. They tell you a bit about what is Rtveli? The different types of Rtveli experiences you can have in Georgia and more.... To BOOK a Tour or read the FULL Rtveli article click here: https://eatthistours.com/rtveli/ (https://eatthistours.com/rtveli/)

In this episode we talk about one of Georgia's most famous drinks - Borjomi. We discuss: The discovery of Borjomi Mineral Water in Borjomi Georgia Borjomi water benefits Borjomi national park and fun facts about Borjomi Mineral Water

In this episode Meg and Tom talk about the traditional singing of Georgia. They discuss: What is Georgian Polyphonic Singing? The History Of Georgian Singing A few music styles you can discover in the different regions of Georgia And where to go in Tbilisi to experience a live performance.

In part 2 of our Georgian Wine crash course, we discuss the different regions where you'll find Georgian wine and how they differ. Plus we reveal a few of our favourite wine regions that we think you absolutely should visit!

In this episode we'll be talking about: What is Georgian Wine? How is it different from other types of wine around the world? The History of Georgian Wine and more discussion all about wine, wine, tasty wine......

This week Meg and Tom start the first episode on important people from Georgia and Georgian History with Ilia Chavchavadze. If you've been to Tbilisi you may have heard his name as it's associated with one of the biggest avenues in Tbilisi which is of course Ilia Chavchavadze avenue. They discuss: his life, growing up as a prince, but that didn't save him from a life of heartache. why he is such an important figure in Georgian History and how his influence has helped shape the Georgia we know today Mentions: Works of Ilia Chavchavadze in English https://dspace.nplg.gov.ge/bitstream/1234/3771/1/Works.pdf (https://dspace.nplg.gov.ge/bitstream/1234/3771/1/Works.pdf) https://eatthistours.com (Eat This! Tours) - visit the Chavchavadze Estate (not Ilia's but a nice place to visit)

In this episode, Tom & Meg talk about some of their favourite Day Trips from Tbilisi. Looking to base yourself in Tbilisi and explore what's close by? Or live in Tbilisi and looking for a new fascinating place to visit? We've got you all covered in this series. Please remember to rate and review the Tbilisi Podcast with 5 stars! The more reviews we have the more others can find and listen to our happy little show. For more information about our tour company Eat This! Tours feel free to check out our itineraries at https://eatthistours.com/tours/ (https://eatthistours.com/tours/)

This "Things to do in Tbilisi" episode discusses the best places to visit in Tbilisi. Starting from the lesser-known ones you may not have heard about. Links to attractions: Ethnographic Museum - https://museum.ge/index.php?lang_id=ENG&sec_id=46 Orbeliani Bathhouse - http://chreli-abano.ge/ Gulo's Thermal Spa - https://www.facebook.com/tbilisithermalspa/ Tbilisi Wine Museum - https://www.facebook.com/tbilisiwinemuseum/ Etno Tsikvili - https://shop.tsiskvili.ge/ Georgian House - https://www.georgian-house.ge/ Chronicle of Georgia - https://goo.gl/maps/AGpkTPwL9UTi3gRAA Gallery 27 - https://gallery-27.com/en/ Anchiskhati Basilica - http://www.anchiskhati.ge/ Dezerter Bazaar - https://goo.gl/maps/8MKQHAc2JLQwuobaA

This is Part 2 of our remote worker tax considerations. If you haven't listened to part 1 yet we recommend you go back and listen to that episode first. In this episode, Tom continues his conversation with Levan, the head of tax law for Expathub, about remote worker taxes when living or staying in Georgia. For more information about taxes head to https://expathub.ge/ (https://expathub.ge) where there are lots of articles about this topic or you can book a consultation to speak to one of the team in person.

In this episode, Tom speaks to Levan, the head of tax law for Expathub, about remote worker taxes when living or staying in Georgia. For more information about taxes head to https://expathub.ge (https://expathub.ge) where there are lots of articles about this topic or you can book a consultation to speak to one of the team in person.

In this episode Meg chats to tour guide extraordinaire Ketie about the history of Georgia. There's a LOT to cover so they just discuss a few of the highlights, to begin with....more in-depth episodes to come! NOTE: We apologise for some of the audio in this episode - it's not always the best.

In this epsiode we discuss what are the best Tbilisi neighborhoods for tourists, and the best neighborhoods for those moving to Tbilisi long term. Find out the pros and cons of all the most popular neighborhoods of Tbilisi. Also, check out the full article : https://expathub.ge/living-in-tbilisi-georgia/

In this episode, Meg & Tom discuss some of the reasons why you should consider adding Tbilisi to your travel bucket list. They also talk about some of the reasons why moving to Tbilisi and living in Tbilisi is pretty great! Mentions: Female Safety App - https://safeyou.space/ (Safe You) Emergency Services Contact App - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=mia.emergency_georgia_112&hl=en&gl=US (112 Georgia) (need Georgian Sim for this to work)

Join Meg and Tom as they give you all the Tbilisi arrival information you need when you visit Tbilisi. They Discuss: Where is Tbilisi? Tbilisi Airport Arrivals Information Getting a Sim Card in Georgia Tbilisi Weather Tbilisi Currency and ATM's and more.....

Garmajoba! (hello in Georgian) Welcome to our brand new show all about life & travel in Tbilisi and Georgia. In this episode we cover: Who this show is for? Who are the hosts and how did we end up in Tbilisi? What the show is about and why we decided to make it? Please like and subscribe wherever you enjoy listening to podcasts and leave a 5* review to help other people find the show. Brought to you by Food Fun Travel, Expathub.ge and Eat This! Tours

Tbilisi Podcast is OUT MAY 4th! We are so excited to bring you this brand new podcast all about Tbilisi Georgia. This Podcast Is For You if you've ever thought about visiting or even moving to Tbilisi, or just curious about this up and coming destination! Covering everything a visitor or expat would need to know about Tbilisi & Georgia.

*NEW PODCAST - TBILISI PODCAST* We are excited to announce that we are launching a brand new podcast. We've been living and travelling throughout the beautiful country of Georgia and on the 4th May, we will launch the Tbilisi Podcast. Ever thought about visiting or even moving to Tbilisi, or just curious about this up and coming destination? Then this is the show for you! Covering everything a visitor or expat would need to know about Tbilisi & Georgia. It's going to be awesome!

The Tbilisi Podcast Is launching May 4th