Ode to Georgia

Before arriving here, I knew almost nothing about Georgia. I barely knew its location on the map and the name of its capital, Tbilisi.

But once I got here, I discovered a whole new world.

A world of people who, with great effort, are trying to free themselves from the burden of Russian occupation and who desire so intensely to join the EU that they protest for months, day and night, to prevent their government from passing a Russian-style law.

I discovered that Georgian food is unexpectedly delicious, that people always give thanks for what they have, even if it's very little (and unfortunately, many people live in extreme poverty).

I learned that food is taken seriously here, especially the Supra, the traditional Georgian feast (it's no coincidence that there’s even a special role for the "toastmaster," the Tamada).

I discovered a country surrounded by woods and forests that hide small earthly paradises, and, last but not least, I met incredibly welcoming people, where no one remains a stranger for long.

After seven months, I can say that I have fallen in love with this nation. Of course, it's not all perfect; there are issues and challenges to face. But this article aims to celebrate the beauty of Georgia.

So, here’s a collection of photos showcasing its wonders.

Enjoy!

a Georgian woman invited us to her house to show us her farm. We ate so much that I couldn't touch food for one day!

Cows and pigs have full freedom of movement, they go everywhere, you find them especially on the street.

One of the natural paradises I was talking about... I mean, look at this 😍

a field of hazelnuts trees, one of the main businesses in the agricultural field in Georgia.

A Georgian supra. As you can see, there are at least three layers of plates full of food, it's a tetris! there isn't even space to move

A small lake hidden among the hills surrounding the Zugdidi valley

Traditional dance clothes during the National Day of Georgia. Search for traditional Georgian dances on Youtube, they are something incredible (besides the fact that it requires a lot of physical preparation, especially for men, because it requires a lot of strength and physical endurance)

Campfire with expats and local friends

Me doing pet therapy with a dog from a Georgian family (here too, I ate a lot... it was a mix of pet therapy and food-comahaha)