Part 1 : Flying from U.S to Georgia
My journey began in Chicago.
I booked a Turkish Airlines flight through Istanbul for $860 roundtrip.
No visa needed for Americans – just show your passport!
Landed in Tbilisi early morning. The mountains looked big and beautiful.
🏙️ Part 2: Exploring Tbilisi
I stayed at Communicate Hostel ($12/night). Great for meeting other Americans!
What I did:
Walked through Old Town’s cobblestone streets
Tried the sulfur baths ($15 for a private room)
Visited the Dry Bridge Market for souvenirs
Felt safe everywhere – even walking alone at night.
🍷 Part 3: Wine Country Trip
Booked a day tour to Kakheti region ($65):
Tasted traditional wines from clay pots
Ate lunch at a family farm: fresh bread, cheese, salads
Bought a bottle of local wine for $18
"Georgian wine tastes like history" – our guide Nina
⛰️ Part 4: Mountain Adventure
Took a night train to Mestia ($20):
Best hikes:
1. Chalaadi Glacier (easy 3-hour walk)
2. Koruldi Lakes (tougher hike, amazing views)
3. Ushguli Village (Europe’s highest town)
Stayed at Nana’s guesthouse ($15/night) – she cooked us delicious meals!
💰 Part 5: Trip Costs
14 days cost me $620 (not counting flights):
Category Cost
Accommodation $180
Food $140
Transport $120
Tours $180
→ Full cost details in my Simple Georgia Budget Guide
https://codeandcompass360.blogspot.com/2025/05/georgia-trip-planner-us-guide-to.html
🗺️ Your Georgia Plan
1. Before you go:
Book flights early
Pack warm clothes for mountains
2. Tbilisi (4 days):
Stay near Freedom Square
Visit sulfur baths
3. Kakheti (2 days):
Take a wine tour
4. Svaneti (4 days):
Hike and stay with locals
😊 Why I Loved Georgia
People are incredibly friendly
Everything feels authentic
Great value for money
"Georgia makes travel feel easy and real."
