Batumi

Batumi

N°2

inyourpocket.com

2014

Maps Events Restaurants Cafés Nightlife Sightseeing Shopping Hotels

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Contents

E S S E N T I A LC I T Y G U I D E S

Arrival & Getting around 5Getting to town, public transport & car rental

City basics 7All you’d better know while in Georgia

Culture & History 11History, art galleries, culture centres

Hotels 12Best places to stay

Restaurants 16Georgian restaurants list is on the top. Need a break - choose one of the following

Cafés 21Our favourites in the city

Decoding the menu 22Georgian cuisine in a glance

Nightlife 24Selection of bars, pubs and clubs

Sights 25Check out the highlights

Kobuleti 29Sea, sun and endless beaches

Directory & Shopping 30Lifestyle and business contacts

Maps & IndexOld town map 32New Boulevard 34Street index 34

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4 Batumi In Your Pocket batumi.inyourpocket.com

Foreword

CZECHREPUBLIC

SOUTHAFRICA

DUTCHCARIBBEAN

POLAND

ROMANIAHUNGARY

SERBIABOSNIA

ALBANIAGREECE

FYR MACEDONIA

BULGARIAMONTENEGRO

ITALYCROATIASLOVENIA

AUSTRIASWITZERLAND

UKRAINE

GEORGIA

BELARUS

LITHUANIA

LATVIA

ESTONIA

RUSSIA

GERMANYBELGIUM

NETHERLANDS

NORTHERNIRELAND

IRELAND

We hope this second, updated edition of Batumi In Your Pocket will be a helpful and handful, giving you all the best insights to the city.

Batumi was an Ancient Greek colony, a Roman port and was fought over several times in battles between the Georgian Kings and invading Ottoman forces. In 1878 Batumi came under the rule of the Russian Empire and the city soon experienced rapid expansion. Today it is Georgia’s main port and seaside holiday destination.

Batumi is blossoming. It is Georgia’s summer playground and has seen much development over recent years, much of it with new building, but some with a sympa-thetic understanding of the city’s history. Batumi had a previous period of prosperity in the 19th century and a lot of recent renovations of the old town have been car-ried out with that in mind, using archive documents to preserve authenticity. The result is a charming series of low-level buildings with delicate railings and balconies, moulded facades and quiet cobblestone streets, where the air is filled with the aroma of fresh coffee, the fra-grance of citrus plants, and of course the sea breeze.

Despite the developments the ongoing construction does have its critics, with some arguing that it is damag-ing the city’s character. Yet there is no arguing that Ba-tumi has an energetic and growing tourist infrastructure that makes it an easy and enjoyable place to stay.

In this guide we also provide you with tourism informa-tion on the Ajara region, one of the most beautiful and diverse regions in Georgia.

Have a happy stay and enjoy the city, the sea and the sun. Gamarjoba!

About iYP

We have come a long way in the 22 years since we published the first In Your Pocket guide - to Vilnius in Lithu-ania - so much so that we are today the largest publisher of locally-produced city guides in the world. The recent publication of a guide to the islands of the Dutch Caribbean - our first in the Western Hemisphere - has taken the number of guides published each year by In Your Pocket to well over five milli-on, spread across more than 100 cities on three continents. And there is more to come: make sure you keep up with all that’s new at In Your Pocket by liking us on Facebook (facebook.com/inyourpo-cket) or following us on Twitter (twitter.com/inyourpocket).

PublisherIn Your Pocket Georgia LLCTabukashvili 15/4Tbilisi 0108 Georgiatel. (+955) 596 10 72 [email protected] by LTD Favorite PrintPublished 10,000 copies once a year.

Editorial Editor & Writer Huw Williams, Jason FazzioManaging Editor Natasha MartisovaResearch In Your Pocket Georgia teamDesign Natasha MartisovaPhotography In Your Pocket unless otherwise statedCover depositphotos.com

Sales & Circulation Director Piotr Rząca [email protected] Manager Eka Tsotsoria (+995) 555 43 80 45, [email protected]

Copyright notice Text, maps and photos copyright In Your Pocket Georgia LLC 2014. Maps copyright In Your Pocket Georgia LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form, except brief extracts for the purpose of review, without written permission from the publisher and copyright owner. The brand name In Your Pocket is used under license from UAB In Your Pocket (Bernardinu 9-4, Vilnius, Lithuania tel. (+370-5) 212 29 76).

MapsIn Your Pocket Georgia LLC 2013-14.

E S S E N T I A LC I T Y G U I D E S


Arriving & Getting Around

bY busBuses from Tbilisi, Kutaisi, Kobuleti arrive in Tbilisi Square, next to the port (Gogebashvili St). Some buses arrive at the bus station, which is short walk from the port. If you’re ar-riving by bus from Sarpi or Kvariati, you may as well just get off anywhere on Chavchavadze Street. Buses from Turkey arrive at the new bus station on Gogoli street. The Old Town area starts from Gogebashvili Street and most of the hotels are located in a one kilometre radius from the bus stop. If you get dropped by the bus driver next to the port, just follow Gogebashvili street to the north.

BuS StAtIoNQMaiakovsky 1. Open 07:00 - 00:00.

New BuS StAtIoNQGogoli 1, tel. (+995) 422 24 26 12. Open 09:00 - 18:00.

bY PlAneBatumi International Airport (TAV) is located seven kilo-metres south from Batumi on the road from Batumi to the Turkish Border. The new terminal was constructed in 2007 and provides good quality passengers services. There are several ATMs, currency exchange, a gift shop, a bistro, a travel agency, VIP and CIP zones. Both international and domestic flights operate from here. The queues at passport control are usually short and the baggage delivery is often prompt.Getting to town: Taxis are relatively cheap and it will be the quickest option. Be ready to pay about 15Lari to the city centre. The cheapest way to reach Batumi is to take bus # 10. The bus stops is in front of the terminal and it takes 20 minutes to get to the city centre. Tickets cost 0.40Lari. Beware that on Batumi public buses you need to purchase two tickets, printed on one piece of paper. You can buy tickets from the driver.Kutaisi International Airport. Wizz Air operates low cost flights from Poland and Ukraine, as well as from Moscow Domodedovo and Minsk airports. The airport is located about 120 kilometres from Batumi. The airport is very basic, just a simple immigration and customs post, no currency exchange or ATM. On exiting, expect to be surrounded by dozens of drivers touting for buses to any destination around Georgia. The bus costs approximately 15Lari de-pending on the driver and it is a three-hour journey. Pay 60US$ for a taxi. The cheapest and sometimes the fastest way is simply cross the road in front of the airport and catch a bus to Batumi for 10 Lari. Don’t be alarmed if you don’t have any Lari on you, just ask your driver to stop at the cur-rency exchange on the way. If any questions - there is a tourist information desk to the right from the arrival hall doors.

BAtuMI INteRNAtIoNAl AIRpoRtQAirport Highway 220, tel. (+995) 422 23 51 00, www.batumiairport.com. W

KutAISI INteRNAtIoNAl AIRpoRtOperates Wizz Air low cost flights from Poland, Ukraine and Lithuania. The airport is located about 120 km from Batumi. The airport is very basic, there is a currency exchange win-dow before the immigration control and an information centre to the right of the Arrivals hall exit. Next to the in-formation there is Mimino cafe, serving coffee, bear, drinks and simple snacks. On exiting, expect to be surrounded by dozens of drivers touting for buses to any destination around Georgia. There is an official Georgian Bus transfer to Tbilisi, Kutaisi and Batumi - tickets can be found next to the information point. The bus costs 20 Lari (about 10EUR) and a journey takes about three hours. Don’t be alarmed if you didn’t change money before immigration, you can pay for a ticket in US dollars or Euros. Buses run according to the flights schedule. For taxi drivers ask 60USD. The cheapest and sometimes the fastest way is simply cross the road in front of the airport and catch a bus to Batumi for 10 Lari.QKutaisi, tel. (+995) 431 23 90 03. W

bY seAThere are several regular passenger lines that connect Ba-tumi with Illichivsk port in Ukraine and Sochi in Russia. All ferries arrive in the passengers terminal, which is located right in the city centre on Batumi Boulevard.

BAtuMI expReSSConnects Batumi and Sochi. Run two times a week, on Wed and Sat from Sochi. Boarding 10:00 - 11:00. Depart at 12:00, arrives in Batumi at 18:00.Qtel. (+995) 593 33 39 66.

uKRFeRRyPassenger and transport ferries run between Illichivsk and Batumi. Departure from Illichivsk every Thursday. From Batumi to Illichevsk every Sunday. Approximate duration of the trips is about 60 hours.Qtel. (+995) 422 27 41 19, www.ukrferry.com.

bY trAinThere aren’t any passenger stations named Batumi, Makh-injauri is the name of the train station (named after the village) 8 km North-East to Batumi. All trains from Tbilisi, Ozurgeti, Kutaisi, as well as international ones from Yerevan and Baku stop here. Inside the train station there is a ticket office, though when leaving Batumi it’s better to get ticket in advance in the city office. The timetable is available on-line at www.railway.ge. Getting to town: To get to the centre you can take a taxi (15 Lari) or public transport - bus #10 or minibus (marshrutka) # 20. A stop for both is located to the right from the train sta-tion. Buy a double ticket from the bus driver (0.80 Lari total), and validated it twice as the ride to Batumi costs 0.80 Lari. Bus #10 takes you to Rustaveli Av. Marshrutka # 20 will get you to Chavchavadze Street, pay when getting off (1 Lari).

MAKHINjAuRI tRAIN StAtIoNQTbilisi Highway, tel. (+995) 422 25 03 03, www.railway.ge.


Arriving & Getting Around

buYing trAin ticketThe most efficient way to buy train ticket is to go to the ticket office at Mazniashvili 5. There is usually an English speaking staff member. You should have valid ID or a pass-port with you. You can also buy tickets online. Go to railway.ge website, click the map on the right. You can check the connections as well as buy ticket. You need to register and then follow their procedure, pretty much the same as any other online booking system. It only accepts Visa or Master-Card. If you are travelling on an electronic ticket, show the conductor the ticket purchase code and the ID you used during the booking process. Beware: the online booking engine sometimes just doesn’t work. Remember that for popular destinations (Tbilisi, Kutaisi) you should buy tickets at least 2 days in advance, especially in high season.

cAr rentAlFor some visitors, driving in Georgia can be a daunting ex-perience. On the face of it, Georgians don’t seem the most disciplined motorists. Driving speeds are often fast and lane changes can be erratic. At rush-hour the experience is further intensified by heavy city traffic. The speed limit is 60 km/h in towns and cities. In other areas it’s 80 km/h unless indicated. Highways speed limit is , unless other is indicated on the screens along the road. All road signs and screens are in English. There is a zero tolerance policy towards drink driving and your seat belt must be locked.

GelA ReNt A CARQB-3, Gorgasali 55, tel. (+995) 790 56 96 02, www.gelarentacar.com.

HeRtzQD-2, Baratashvili 6, tel. (+995) 422 29 20 98, www.hertz.ge. Open 10:00 - 18:00, Sat 10:00 - 14:00. Closed Sun. A

SIxtQBatumi International Airport, www.sixt.com/car-rental/georgia/batumi/batumi-international-airport. Open 10:00 - 18:00. A

Public trAnsPortBuses are mainly modern and with an electronic display clearly showing its route number on the front. They oper-ate to a schedule, which you can find on electronic boards located on the bus stops. Once on the bus you’ll receive one ticket worth two rides (0.80 Lari total), which needs to be validated each time you ride. Ensure you have the right change to pay, as drivers often refuse big notes. Buses for longer distances (Sarpi and Makhinjauri) cost 0.80Lari, just validate you ticket twice.

MinibusesCalled marshrutkas operate on established routes. Unlike Tbilisi, here they can be painted any colour. The number is usually displayed on the front. Some of them operate city routes while others do the long distance duty. Ask locals or at tourism information centres which number marshrutka you need to take. The fare for a ride within city is usually 0.50 Lari, payable to the driver when you get off. The main stop for long distances marshrutkas is the Central Bus Station.

tAxiTaxis are a cheap and are an easy way to get around the city. Most trips within Batumi range from 3 to 6 Lari. Some taxis carry meters with fixed rates, but not all. Agree the price be-fore you get in. Haggle with them, they will probably start with a high price if you are a foreigner.

tAxI-2Tariff 1Lari/km.Qtel. (+995) 422 27 05 94.

tourist inforMAtionBAtuMI CIty CeNtReQD-2, Ninoshvili 3, main entrance to Batumi Boule-vard, tel. (+995) 422 29 44 12/(+ 995) 577 90 90 91.

BAtuMI INteRNAtIoNAl AIRpoRtQAirport Highway 220, tel. (+ 995) 422 29 44 14/(+ 995) 577 14 17 05, [email protected].

KoBuletI MuNICIpAlItyQAgmashenebeli 110, Kobuleti, tel. (+995) 598 52 61 66.

train #

passport # / name

departure date and time

carriage # and seat/berth

from - to stations

arrival date and time

# of passangers total price

original

As there is no information in English on the train tickets, we hope this picture will help you to decode it


City BasicsHere are some helpful tips, contacts and useful information on how best to avoid some embarrassing situations while spending your time in Tbilisi.

criMe & sAfetYBatumi is arguably as safe as many European cities. There are pickpockets and theft does occur, but it is not a com-mon happening. Just be streetwise, don’t carry lots of cash and don’t be too obvious with the money you do have on you. In essence, the locals are usually friendly and welcom-ing. Georgians can be impulsive and loud and you may en-counter passionate arguments. Usually they are just bark-ing at each other, but be sensible, and stay clear. Generally, foreigners are seen as a valuable asset and you are unlikely to encounter any problems. If you do have any encounter with crime, the police are usually friendly and helpful. Po-lice corruption in Georgia is incredibly rare.

polICe StAtIoN #3QE-3, Kutaisi Str., tel. 112, www.police.ge. Open 24hrs.

custoMsYou can bring 400 cigarettes, or 50 cigars or 50 cigarillos or 250 grams of other tobacco products as well as 4 litters of alcoholic beverages into Georgia without declaring it at customs. There are allowances for importing without dec-laration up to 30kg of food, not exceeding 500 Lari, once in a calendar day. Import or export of money up to 30000 Lari or equivalent in other currencies is exempted from duty.Exporting antiques and old works of arts is subject to li-censing and permission from the Ministry of Culture.Cats and dogs must be accompanied by veterinarian health certificate. All international regulations on narcotics, guns and explosives apply.

electricitYGeorgia supplies its residents and visitors alike with electri-cal current of 220 volts AC, 50Hz. All sockets require two round pins. Adapters for more foreign electrical societies are not easy to find in Batumi, so bring your own.

internetThere is a free public Wi-Fi available along the Ninosh-vili street, from the university to Intourist Palace hotel. Also most of the cafés/restaurants/bars have free WiFi. To be sure look for special symbol in our guide. There are a number of Internet cafés around Batumi. The one we like is at Melikishvili 23, open 09:00-00:00. 1 hour costs 1.50 Lari.

MoneYThe Georgian national currency is the Lari (GEL) divided into 100 tetri. It was introduced in 1995, replacing the kupon lari, a transitional currency used after Georgia de-clared independence from the Soviet Union. The Lari is a relatively stable currency. Paper bills are in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500. Bills for 1 and 2 Lari were replaced by coins. Coins are in 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 tetri and 1

fActs & figures

Population Georgia 4 469 200 Batumi 180 000Ethnic composition Georgians 82%, Armenians 5%, Russians 4.5%, Ukrainians 0,4%, others 8.1%.Territory of Georgia 69,700 sq kmBorders Black Sea 330km, The Greater Caucasus Mountain Range forms the 723 km northern border with Russia, Armenia 164km, Azerbaijan 322 km and Turkey 252 km.Longest river Mtkvari 1515 kmLargest lake Paravani 37.5 sq kmHighest point Shkhara 5,193 m (17,040 ft)Local time Together with all countries of the Caucasus region and Russia, Georgia is in the UTC+4 time zone..

cliMAteTbilisi experiences relatively warm winters and hot summers. Winds dominate in most parts of Tbilisi throughout the year.

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Rainfall, mmTemperature, °C

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

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MArket vAlues

How do costs compare to back home? Here’s a handy list of local prices to give you an idea.

McDonald’s Big Mac 4.95 Lari €2.14 $2.86Loaf of white bread 0.70 Lari €0.30 $0.40Snickers bar 1.00 Lari €0.43 $0.60Litre of vodka 17.00 Lari €7.33 $9.83Bottle of local beer (0.5 litre) 1.50 Lari €0.65 $0.88Bottle of local wine (from) 7.00 Lari €3.02 $4.0420 Malboros 3.00 Lari €1.29 $1.73Public transport ticket 0.40 Lari €0.17 $0.231 litre of petrol (euro 3) 2.15 Lari €0.93 $1.24


City Basicsand 2 Lari denominations. ATMs are plentiful and the vast majority will accept foreign cards. As always, if you can, try and use ATMs associated with a reputable high street bank. Card fraud is an international problem and taking precau-tions is as advisable in Tbilisi as any other city. Try and carry small denomination cash as taxi drivers and small shops might not be able to change high value notes. You can also use debit and credit cards in many shops, bars, restaurants and hotels in Batumi. Places that do not accept CC indi-cated in our guide by special symbol.

nAtionAl holidAYsJanuary 1 New Year’s DayJanuary 7 Orthodox ChristmasJanuary 19 Baptism Day of our Lord Jesus ChristMarch 3 Mother’s DayMarch 8 International Women’s DayApril 9 Day of National UnityMay 5 (2013) Eastern Orthodox SundayMay 6 (2013) Eastern Orthodox MondayMay 9 Day of Victory over FascismMay 12 Saint Andrea the First DayMay 26 Independence DayAugust 28 Saint Mary’s DayOctober 14 Day of Svetitskhoveli Cathedral (in Mtskheta)November 23 Saint George’s Day

religionThe historically Christian Ajara region fell under the control of the Ottoman Empire control in 1614 and went through a long period of Islamization, which lasted until the end of 18th century. Later, under the Russian Empire and later still the Georgian state a lot of people were baptized back into Orthodox Christianity. Today, the influence of the Georgian Orthodox Church is growing fast, so much so that even some Catholics from Ajara are converting to Orthodoxy. The famous Catholic Church on Zubalashvili Street was reopened after Soviet times as the Georgian Cathedral of Saint Mary. The majority of Ajarians now belong to the Orthodox Church (63 per cent), while there is a Sunni Muslim minority (30 per cent), mainly in the Khulo district. Batumi is also a home for Roman Catholic (0.2 per cent), Armenian Apostolic (2.3 per cent) and Jewish and other communities (6 per cent).

tiPPingUsually 10-15% will be included in the bill as service charge. But this isn’t a tip and wages aren’t good so if you pleased with the service give a tip too.

sMokingGeorgia does not enforce a smoking ban in public places. Very few bars and restaurants even offer nonsmoking sections. So if you can’t stand smoke, look for G symbol in our guide. Smokers enjoy a ridiculously cheap selection of cigarettes hawked by corner kiosks that are located throughout the city.

lAnguAgeThe country’s official language is Georgian, but English is widely used. Russian is also spoken by the majority of Georgians, particularly those over twenty five. See below for a list of some of the most common words and phrases.Hello gamarjobaGoodbye nakhvamdis, kargadPlease tu sheidzlebaYou’re welcome araprisThank you madlobt Excuse me ukatsravadYes diakh, ki No araEnjoy your meal gemrielad miirtvitCheers! gaumarjos!I don’t understand ar mesmisI don’t know ar viciHelp! mishvelet! damekhmaret!Hospital saavdmkofo Ambulance sastsrafoWhere is…? sad aris...?Right, left marjvniv, martskhnivDo you speak English? inglisurad laparakobt?How much does … cost? ra ghirs?What’s your name? ra gqviat?Beer ludi Wine ghvino Water tsk’ali One erti Two oriThree sami Four otkhiFive khuti Six ekvsiSeven shvidi Eight rvaNine tskhra Ten atiHundred asi Thousand atasiPush (on a door) miatsekitPull (on a door) gamoaghetOpen ghiaa Closed daketiliaა a ბ b გ g დ d ე e ვ v ზ z თ t ი i კ k’ ლ l მ m ნ n ო o პ p’ ჟ zh რ r ს sტ t უ u ფ p ქ k ღ gh ყ q’ შ sh ჩ ch ც ts ძ dz წ ts’ ჭ ch’ხ kh ჯ j ჰ hMost city centre streets signs are written in English, but in case you get lost in Old Town are or in the outskirts, here is a list of street signs in Georgian. We hope you to find where you are!Street ქუჩა kuchaSquare მოედანი moedaniAvenue პროსპექტი prospektiBoulevard ბულვარი bulvariBridge ხიდი khidiEmbankment სანაპირო sanapiroHighway გზატკეცილი gzatkets’iliLane შესახვევი shesakhveviDescent დაღმართი daghmarti


City Basics

Mobile & PhonesFixed lineBatumi telephone code is (+995) 422. In our guide all tel-ephone numbers are written including this code. To call from a landline within Batumi to another number in the city just dial last 6 digits of the telephone number we list. If the number starts with 3 digits different from 422 (e.g. 559, etc.), dial 0 and then full 9 digits number. We didn’t spot any payphones around Batumi.MobileYou can get a Georgian SIM-card (sometimes even for free) at the offices listed below. You’ll need to show your pass-port. Calling from a mobile to a fixed line phone, dial 0, then the city code (422) then the 6 last digits. Calling to other mobiles is tricky. Sometimes it is enough just to dial the last 9 digits of the number. If that doesn’t work, just dial the full number starting 995. Roaming To call a fixed line or mobile in Georgia you should always dial +995 instead of 00995.

BeelINeQA-4, Gorgiladze 40. Open 10:00 - 19:00, Sat, Sun 10:00 - 17:00.

GeoCellQD-3, K. Gamsakhurdia 21. Open 09:00 - 18:00, Sat, Sun 10:00 - 17:00.

MAGtIQD-2, Rustaveli 10. Open 09:00 - 18:00, Sat, Sun 10:00 - 17:00.

Post officesGeorgian post is expensive and slow. You can only send postcards from post offices and they aren’t always easy to find. Postal stamps also can be bought only at the post of-fices. A post card to Europe will cost you 4 Lari, to the USA 4.80Lari. An ordinary letter up to 100g costs 13.20/15.20 Lari. A parcel up to 500 g is around 49,90 Lari to 66.05 Lari. Exact rates to you country are available at www.georgian-post.ge.

poStAl SeRvICe CeNtReQE-3, Melashvili 4, tel. (+995) 422 27 22 89, www.georgianpost.ge. Open 09:00 - 17:00, Sat 09:00 - 15:00. Closed Sun.

exPress MAilDHlQB-3, 26 Maisi 44, tel. (+995) 422 27 46 08, www.dhl.com. Open 09:30 - 18:30, Sat 10:00 - 14:00. Closed Sun.

tNtQC-3, Gorgiladze 40, apt 14, tel. (+995) 422 22 32 75. Open 10:00 - 19:00, Sat 10:00 - 13:00. Closed Sun.

upSQC-3, Tavdadebuli 36, tel. (+995) 422 27 73 58. Open 10:00 - 18:00, Sat 10:00 - 14:00. Closed Sun.

visAsYou do not need a visa to enter and stay in Georgia for up to 360 days if you are a foreign national who permanently resides in the USA, Canada, EU, Ukraine, New Zealand, Israel, United Arab Emirates, Iraq, Japan, Republic of Korea, Brazil, United Mexican States, State of Qatar, Sultanate of Oman, Kingdom of Bahrain, State of Kuwait (check the full list at www.rs.ge/en/5418) do not need visa to enter and stay in Georgia for up to 360 days. Citizens of the member states of European Union can enter Georgia merely by producing their national identity card.Russian Federation citizens do not need a visa to enter and stay in Georgia for up to 90 days.If you’re not from one of the above countries, you can get a visa from a Georgian embassy or consulate. An “Ordinary” 90-day, single-entry visa, which covers tourism, is US$50. Visas are also issued at the official road and air entry points, but not if you are arriving by rail or sea.Foreign nationals who have a multiple entry US, EU or Schen-gen member states visa, valid for one year or more and previ-ously used once at least, can enter or stay in Georgia without visa up to 90 days, within the validity term of the visa.Foreign nationals who are holders of the UNO’s or its special-ized agencies’ travel documents (Laissez-Passer), can enter or stay on the territory of Georgia without visa up to 90 days.Georgia considers the crossings from Russia into South Os-setia and Abkhazia illegal.Travel from Georgia to Russia is not simple. All foreign visitors, with the exception of citizens from selected countries of the CIS, must obtain a visa. There is no Russian Federation embassy or consulate in Tbilisi, so you should think og getting a visa before you come to Georgia. Upon arrival in Russia you will need to fill

exchAnge rAtes

As of July 20, 2014 €1 – 2.32 Lari US$1 – 1.73 Lari £1 – 1.92 LariCurrent exchange rates are available at batumi.inyourpocket.com


City Basicsin an immigration card. If you are staying more that 72 hours, you will need to register with the local police (hotels are usually willing to aid in this process). Transit visas are also required. Travel to Armenia became much easier in 2013. All citizens of the EU can stay in Armenia up to 180 days without a visa. Citizens of CIS countries and Argentina also do not require visas. Citizens of all other countries must apply for a visa. We recommend you applying to e-visa at evisa.mfa.am. A 21 day visa costs US$10, 120 days is US$40. Contact: Armenian Embassy in Tbilisi (+995) 32 295 17 23 www.georgia.mfa.am/en.All visitors of Azerbaijan are required to obtain a visa prior to arrival. Citizens of CIS countries can enter Azerbaijan visa free. Citizens of Turkey can obtain a visa upon arrival. Tour-ist visas are issued on a single entry basis only. All single entry visas are valid for up to 90 days from the date of issue with the duration of stay up to 30 days. Contact: Azerbaijan Embassy in Tbilisi (+995 32) 225 35 26, www.azembassy.ge.Entering Turkey is visa free for citizens of most of countries. If you do require a visa many will be able to pay on entry. However citizens of Mexico, Peru, China, India, Pakistan, some other Asian countries and most of Africa are required to get a visa from the consulate. Contact Turkish embassy in Tbilisi (+995) 32 225 20 72.For a complete listing of embassy locations and phone numbers see Directory/Foreign representations at tbi-lisi.inyourpocket.com.

the breAkAwAY regionsThe collapse of the Soviet Union re-ignited many centuries-old ethnic disputes in the South Caucasus area. In Georgia, several violent conflicts between 1992 and 2008 led to the loss of Tbilisi’s control over the regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, whose local authorities declared those territories “in-dependent republics”. Around 300,000 people were uproot-ed from their homes and relocated to other parts of Georgia, where tens of thousands of them still reside in temporary settlements. Abkhazia and South Ossetia are recognized as independent states by Russia, Venezuela, Nicaragua and several Pacific island-states, the rest of the international com-munity deeming them an integral part of Georgia.

Travel to both regions is at the mo-ment strongly discouraged by most western governments, notably the UK Home Office and the US Department of State.

One should bear in mind that consular assistance cannot be normally provided in the territory of Abkhazia and South Osse-tia by officials of countries that do not recognize the “republics”, therefore any emergency cases (e.g. loss of passport, accident) will need to be dealt with by the traveller without assistance, and may carry severe consequences. The new Georgian gov-ernment elected in October 2012 pledged to normalize rela-

tions with its breakaway regions, yet as of March 2014 this has not brought about any change on the ground.

ABKHAzIAEnclosed between Russia, Georgia and the Black Sea coast-line, Abkhazia was one of the top tourist destinations in the Soviet Union. Fabulous scenery and natural wonders (subtropical beaches, alpine lakes and gorges, some of the deepest mountain caves on earth), historical monuments (New Athos monastery, the cities of Sukhumi and Gagra, and other ancient religious sites) made it a huge draw. All travel-lers should log on to Abkhaz Foreign Ministry website (http://mfaapsny.org/en/council/visa.php) to check the latest immi-gration requirements. Most foreigners will need to fill out a downloadable electronic visa application form and forward it to the provided Abkhaz Consular Service e-mail address. Nor-mally, a free-of-charge entry permit will be issued within five working days and emailed back to the applicant to print out.

From Georgia, Abkhazia can only be entered through the “Enguri” checkpoint on the administrative border, 10 kilo-metres north-west of Zugdidi and as of 2013, operated by the Russian military. The print out of the entry permit must be produced, together with a valid passport upon reaching the checkpoint control. Within three days of arrival in Abk-hazia, the traveller is required to visit the Sukhumi branch of SberBank of Abkhazia (not to be confused with the SberBank of Russia), to pay the visa fee of 20 US dollars and proceed with the receipt to the office of Consular Service in Sukhumi to receive a visa. The visa will be handed to the traveller as a loose sheet of paper, not to be attached to the passport, as it will be collected upon departure through the checkpoint control, serving as an exit permit.

From Russia, Abkhazia can be entered through the “Psou” checkpoint. Departing back to Russia will require the trav-eller to hold a Russian multi-entry visa. Note: entering Abkhazia through the “Psou” checkpoint is as of 2014 deemed a criminal offence under Georgian law, there-fore visiting Abkhazia from Russia may result in the travel-ler not being subsequently admitted into Georgia or be-ing prosecuted by Georgian authorities, as Russian border guards are likely to stamp the individual’s passport upon crossing “Psou”.

Compared to Georgia proper, Abkhazia is a considerably less travel-friendly environment. The level of security is low and es-pecially in Sukhumi one should refrain from sightseeing after dark. The currency in use is the Russian Ruble. Expect ATMs not to work with foreign bank cards and foreign mobile phones/SIM cards may not be compatible with local cellular networks. At least having a “survival” knowledge of Russian is a must.

SoutH oSSetIA Landlocked between Russia and Georgia, South Ossetia is cur-rently off-limits to foreign visitors from either country. Crossing the region’s administrative border from Georgia might result in an individual’s arrest or direct physical danger from local military groups. Travellers should exercise caution not to enter South Ossetia inadvertently while trekking in eastern Imereti and Racha-Lechkhumi or western Mtskheta-Mtianeti (west of Georgian Military Highway, particularly the Truso valley).


Culture & HistoryGeorgian culture is unique and vibrant. Georgians treat their culture very seriously. It is not considered something just for museums and tourists but a vital part of their every day identity. It is not just something valued by older gener-ations but young people too. Georgian culture has evolved over thousands of years and has also absorbed influences from many invaders through the millennia, yet making them their own. Their folklore is rich, their dance both beautiful and powerful, their singing is sublime. Literature, fine arts, theatre and music all also have long and strong traditions. If you do nothing else, try and witness some au-thentic Georgian dancing and listen to a polyphonic choir. You will be moved.

Art gAlleriesAKSoy ARt GAlleRyCollections of masterpieces from different famous artists, Georgian silverware tapestry and felt work. The Gallery hosts different temporary exhibitions and projects.QC-3, Vazha Pshavela 28, tel. (+995) 422 27 69 26. Open 11:00 - 19:00.

KeMAl tuRMANIDzeThe private studio of Kemal Turmanidze - a prominent master of a special woodcarving technique and guardian of the distinctive traditions of Georgian heritage.QE-3, Melashvili 5, tel. (+995) 599 95 42 47. Admission 5Lari.

RuSuDAN petvIASHvIlI ARt GAlleRy & CAFéMost of this venue is given over to a modern gallery exhib-iting paintings by the Georgian artist Rusudan Petviash-vili. Rarely for Georgia, there is no smoking inside.QE-2, Z. Gamsakhurdia 7, tel. (+995) 599 74 52 23. Open 11:00 - 00:00.

tBC GAlleRyQC-4, Zubalashvili 37, tel. (+995) 577 12 05 33. Open 10:00 - 17:00.

theAtresBAtuMI ARt & MuSICAl CeNtReBox office open 10:00 - 18:00.QDimitriadi 1, tel. (+995) 422 27 62 40.

BAtuMI StAte DRAMA tHeAtReQD/E-2, Rustaveli 1, tel. (+995) 422 47 42 80, www.batumitheatre.ge.

CIRCuSQD-3, Baratashvili 6, tel. (+995) 422 27 37 98.

puppet tHeAtReQC-2, Abashidze Av. 49, tel. (+995) 422 27 62 34, www.puppet-show.org/en.

historY overview

Batumi owes its name to the ancient Greeks, a place to stop on the way to their colonies. In those ancient times it was known as Bathys Limen (Deep Harbour). In the 3rd century BC, Aristotle mentioned it as a part of the Colchis Kingdom. In the 2nd century, it was rebuilt and became a fortified Roman port. The city changed hands many times until in the 10th century when it became part of the Kingdom of Georgia. Batumi first came under Ottoman rule in the 15th century, but the Turks did not hold the city for long. Only in the 16th century did the Ottomans return - with a bigger army - and Georgia’s rulers had to surrender the city. For short periods during the next century, Batumi was recaptured by the Georgians, but the city was quickly returned to Ottoman control.

During the 19th century, Batumi was a battlefield of Russian and Turkish interests and finally, after the Russo-Turkish War of 1877-78, the defeat of the Turks brought Batumi under the control of the Russian Em-pire (together with a significant part of south-west Georgia). After the Preliminary Treaty of San Stefano, signed between the Russian and Ottoman Empires and the following Treaty of Berlin, Batumi was declared a free port (porto franco) and maintained this status until 1886.

By the end of 1870s, the construction of the sea port was finished and the expansion of Batumi began. The Batumi-Tbilisi-Baku railway was completed in 1900, just in time for the completion of the Baku-Batumi oil pipeline: there was a huge oil production centre in Ba-tumi. Around this time, in 1888, Batumi was officially granted city status and the first mayor of Batumi was elected. Moreover, Batumi became the main Russian oil port on the Black Sea. The city was placed under the direct control of the General Government of Georgia only in 1903.

After becoming a Soviet State, in 1921, Ajara - with its centre in Batumi - was declared an Autonomous Re-public. It retains this status to the present day. During the Soviet era, however, Batumi lost its significance and was a fairly ordinary Soviet town.

Since 2000s, Batumi has been a city in search of its past. It is once again becoming an important Black Sea city, this time as a tourist destination.


HotelsWhatever type of accommodation you choose around Batumi, you can usually expect excellent hospitality. It’s simply the Georgian way. Prices mentioned in the reviews include breakfast and VAT (18%), unless otherwise stated. First mentioned price is for low season, second for high season.

creAM of the croPGolDeN pAlACe BAtuMIOpened January 2014, Golden Palace is bringing freshness to the Batumi lodging scene. The hotel welcomes with a classic-style lobby, from where a glass-walled lift takes guests up through the second-floor casino. The hotel’s fifty-one rooms are decorated in a classic style, with dark wooden floors and nicely decorated white or cream col-ored walls and elegant furniture. Every room is equipped with an air conditioner, mini bar, lock box, cable TV and free wi-fi. Each of the rooms overlooks one of the city’s two main squares - Europa (Era) Square from the rear or (for a slightly-higher price) the outstanding Drama The-atre. The relaxed casino is divided into two areas - one for gambling and the other a slot room. The casino bar is well-stocked and serves its guests a free 19:30 dinner.QD-2, K. Gamsakhurdia 8/10, tel. (+995) 422 21 25 30, [email protected], www.goldenpalacebatumi.com. 51 rooms (14 singles 105US$, 22 doubles 145US$, 6 suites 170US$, 1 apartment 230US$, 1 presidential suite 550US$). PZiOHAW hhhh

INtouRISt pAlACeThe oldest hotel in Batumi, it was built in 1939 on the site of the Alexander Nevsky Orthodox church, destroyed dur-ing the Soviet era. Though the hotel has five stars the decor and interior are relatively old. Standard rooms come with a pool view or a street view. The rooms aren’t large, but com-fortable. There are couple of suites with a big terrace and the premier room also has one. Smoking is allowed in all rooms. Breakfast is served from 07:30 -11:00 in a beautiful

and spacious Tbilisi round hall on the 1st floor. There are also two other restaurant on the ground level. Bakuriani Win-ter Garden serves mainly Georgian food and is open until 03:00. Venezia restaurant serves only Italian food. Renova-tions were being carried out on the fitness area when we visited but they were scheduled to be finished in July 2013. A large outdoor swimming pool is available to guests dur-ing summer season. The Intourist Casino is next door to the hotel, as well as Discorium Disco Club. Both have entrances from the hotel for guests. There’re a currency exchange of-fice and a travel agency in the lobby area.QD-2, Ninosh-vili 11, tel. (+995) 422 27 55 25/(+995) 422 27 66 07, [email protected], www.intouristpalace.com. 151 rooms (standards 140 - 225US$, superiors 170 - 265US$, deluxe 260 - 365US$, terrace suite 320 - 450US$). POALKDXCW hhhhh

pReSIDeNt plAzAOverlooking the beautiful Europe Square, this is one of the prime hotels in Batumi. It has a modern black and grey décor and exclusive Italian furniture. Rooms are un-usually large and airy, may be even seeming a little too large at times and the minimalist style could be toned down with a few pictures on the walls to make it feel more, well, homely. The ceramic floors also don’t help to make the rooms feel welcoming. But, hey, that is just our opinion and maybe you will like it. The quality is certainly high. Each room is equipped with massage shower cabins and all the amenities you expect to find in a 5 star. The hotel has a small gym, massage rooms and sauna in the basement and 8x4 m swimming pool on the ground floor overlooking Baratashvili street.QD-2, Baratashvili 17, tel. (+995) 422 27 69 51, [email protected], www.presidentplaza.ge. 35 rooms (24 standard 100 - 219US$, 9 suite 150 - 170US$, 1 premier suite 500 - 520US$, 1 presidential suite 700 - 720US$). PZiHAF�GKDCW hhhhh

RADISSoN Blu BAtuMIYou’ll either love this glassy 19-storey building or hate it. Built in the best Radisson Blu standard of five star hotels, the rooms have a modern design. They have a sea view through a wall of glass, shaded from the sun with yellow, bright green or orange curtains. Each room, excluding a very few, has a bathtub, shower cabin and a carpeted floor. Suites have an additional steam room. Every level has an ice machine and there are only two floors where smoking is allowed. The fitness and spa centre has both indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a training room and massage services. Clouds Bar & Restaurant, located on the 19th floor, serves international dishes and has spectacular city views. Down at ground level, Medea Restaurant serves breakfasts and drinks during the day. Prices exclude VAT.QE-2, Ninoshvili 1, tel. (+995) 422 25 55 55, [email protected], www.radissonblu.com/hotel-batumi. 168 rooms (standard 215US$, superior 270US$, business class 315US$, junior suite 385US$, suite 505US$). PiOHAUFL�GKDXCwW hhhhh

sYMbol keY

P Air conditioning A Credit cards accepted

O Casino H Conference facilities

T Child-friendly U Facilities for the disabled

F Fitness centre L Guarded parking

R LAN connection 6 Pet-friendly

K Restaurant J Old town location

D Sauna C Swimming pool

I Fireplace W Wifi

B Outside seating i Breakfast

VAT (18%) and breakfast included unless otherwise stated


Hotels

SHeRAtoN BAtuMIOne of the most impressive buildings in the city, Sheraton Batumi is a top-notch five star hotel. The lounge area has an odd interior; a mix of library, art gallery and open space office area, but somehow it is comfortable and cosy. There are couple of computers for guest use and a non-smoking area. The Sunflower restaurant, next to the lounge, serves breakfasts from 06:30 - 10:30. One of three high-tech lifts takes you to all 21 floors of the hotel, including a 300 sq m Penthouse on the top. Rooms are large and spacious, decorated in dark grey colours, each with a sea view through a glass wall. There is also a bathtub in every room and the amenities you would expect from a five star ho-tel. Veronica restaurant on the 20th floor has spectacular views over Batumi and serves Georgian and International cuisine. The hotel’s spa centre, located on the 2nd floor it is the best we’ve seen in Georgia. An enormous area with a 11x21 metre swimming pool, a children’s swimming pool, fitness and aerobic rooms, a sauna, Jucuzzis, a resting area and fantastic Turkish bath. There is also an outdoor swim-ming pool, located in the park area, 25 metres from the hotel. The Sheraton is also the only animal friendly hotel we found in the city. Prices exclude VAT.QB-2, Rustaveli 28, tel. (+995) 422 22 90 00, [email protected], www.sheraton.com/batumi. 202 rooms (deluxe 225US$, club 243US$, executive 270US$, junior suite 315US$, executive suite 360US$, presidential suite 550US$). PZiOHA6UFLGKDX�CwW hhhhh

uPMArketBAtuMI woRlD pAlACeOne of the newest hotels to open in Batumi, it is located just a stone’s throw from recently developed Miracle Park and the Old Boulevard. Rooms have a luxurious de-sign and a light colour scheme. Each standard and suite comes with a bathtub, while deluxe suites have beauti-fully decorated Jacuzzi. On the hotel’s restaurant terrace you’ll see one of the best views over Batumi marina and sea port. The restaurant serves delicious Black Sea fish as well as dishes from Georgia and Turkey as well as inter-national cuisine. The Terrace Bar offers a good selection of alcoholic drinks and cocktails with beautiful nocturnal views over the city. There is a buffet breakfast included in the price.QE-3, Melashvili 1/3, tel. (+995) 422 22 57 90, fax (+995) 422 22 57 92, [email protected], www.batumiworldpalace.com. 30 rooms (18 standards 180 - 210US$, 9 junior suites 230 - 270US$, 3 suites 300 - 350US$). PiHAFLGKDXW hhhh

DIvAN SuIteS BAtuMIAs impressive as this new hotel looks outside, the design of the entrance hall will really leave an impression. The rich co-lonial style, open spaces, mirrors and other elements make a statement. Everything here makes guests feel as much as possible at home. This hotel has arguably the widest and most comfortable-feeling corridors we have ever seen, and that’s just the beginning. Once you experience what’s wait-


Hotelsing behind the door, you will never want to leave. The ho-tel features a wide selection of room types, from standard to a penthouse tower suite. The Divan provides not only outstanding comfort and superior service, but also special touches like a fully-equipped spa & fitness centre, where you can get a massage or recline in the only real Turkish ham-mam in all of Georgia. In the morning a big, tasty breakfast is served. Throughout the day you can satisfy your hunger and thirst at the Divan pub just next to the lobby, welcoming you with superb food and drinks till late. Valet parking is available for hotel guests.QE-3, Jordania/Z.Gamsakhurdia 8/15, tel. (+995) 422 25 55 22, [email protected], www.divan.com.tr. 65 rooms (65 Total rooms ). hhhhh

MoNte CARlo ApARt HotelThe entrance to this small hotel is located on a narrow path in front of the Sheraton Batumi main doors. Monte Carlo has nine apartments, each with a spacious modern design and a fully equipped kitchen with a big fridge, microwave, oven and grill. If you love to cook or are on a budget that means eating out every night isn’t an option, this is the place for you. Superior rooms come as studio apartments. Suites have a separate bedroom and a living room. An executive suite has two bedrooms, a living room and a nice open-air terrace. The hotel is literally at the sea-side park and about a one minute walk from the beach. QB-2, Ninoshvili 23A, tel. (+995) 422 21 21 03, [email protected], www.montecarlobatumi.ge. 9 rooms (3 superior 100 - 210US$, 5 suite 150 - 260US$, 1 executive suite 280 - 400US$). iAGW hhhh

pIAzzA BoutIque HotelThis is definitely one of the most unique hotels in Georgia we’ve seen. Located on the beautiful Piazza square it is rather unusually located in a clock tower. There are only two rooms on each floor and every room has its own unique de-sign. There is no swimming pool or fitness centre and other facilities that you expect to find in 4-star, but this boutique hotel is definitely worth staying at. The views are majestic, overlooking Batumi Old Town so close. An elevator goes to every floor, so no need to climb stairs. The hotel is also refreshingly non-smoking, but if you still need to smoke, there are two small balconies in each room.QE-3, Parnavaz Mepe 25, tel. (+995) 422 61 15 13, fax (+995) 422 22 80 51, [email protected], www.piazza.ge. 16 rooms (16 standards 200 - 340Lari). PiAGKW hhhh

Mid-rAngeo. GAloGReThe hotel borrowed its unusual name from its founder – Georgian businessman Oleg Galogre. It is spread over two beautiful buildings just a step from Piazza Square. All rooms are in a classic design and are comfortable for either a business or vacation stay. Room amenities are what you would expect to find in a 4-star hotel and it is one of the few animal friendly places in Batumi. The hotel’s terraces offer beautiful views over the seaside and port. On the top floor there is a restaurant and a bar (with views of course)

hotel irise

If you’re looking for a comfortable and not-too-ex-pensive place to sleep, Hotel Irise is the right address. There is wi-fi, 24h reception and housekeeping. The rooms are spacious, clean and equipped with comfy mattresses. Some of them have balconies. If you’re hungry, just go downstairs to their restaurant, Cape Town, where home-style Georgian dishes await you..QC-3, Vaja Pshavela 39, tel. (+995) 422 22 13 01, (+995) 599 55 29 91, [email protected], fb/hotelir-ise. 15 rooms (6 standards 80 Lari, 2 semi-suites 120 Lari, 7 suites 150 Lari). PAKW


Hotelsand a courtyard between the building has its own exit to the Piazza Square.QE-3, Gorgasali 8, tel./fax (+995) 422 27 48 45, [email protected], www.hotelgalogre.com. 18 rooms (9 standard 200Lari, 9 suite 260Lari). PiHALGW hhhh

pIAzzA FouR ColouRSThis recently-opened hotel sits on the corner of the Piazza complex square and is a 10-minute walk to the shore. The hotel took its name from the 4 colours of its 47 rooms (red,green,blue, yellow). There’s a difference in price be-tween the rooms with a view over Piazza Square and the ones overlooking the streets of old-town Batumi. But in any of them, you will find AC, flatscreen TV, well-equipped bathroom and free wi-fi. Breakfast is served in a bright hall. One floor is fully non-smoking.QE-3, Gorgasali 16, tel. (+995) 32 261 15 37, [email protected], www.piazza.ge. 40 rooms. PiAGXW hhh

pIAzzA INNHow often do you find the reception of your hotel located in an Irish Pub? Since the hotel is right above The Quiet Wom-an Pub, the entrance to Piazza Inn is behind the bar. The ho-tel has 22 rooms, decorated in an English style. The rooms are not very big, but cozy, and offer everything needed for a good night’s sleep. Breakfast is served in Café La Brioche, right across Piazza Square.QE-3, Gorgasali 20, tel. (+995) 32 260 15 36, [email protected], www.piazza.ge. 22 rooms. PiA6GXW hhh

hostelsSuRF HoStelOpened recently, this is our top-choice hostel in Batumi. There are two dorms as well as double rooms and a big common space. The backyard provides a calm place to relax. No doubt you will feel good here. The owner is a perfect host, takes care of guests by organizing guitar nights at the hostel as well as outings around the city. They cooperate with a nearby bar, so for sure you will be never bored. Conveniently located just 5 minutes from the beach, it’s surrounded by lots of little shops, fast food joints, restaurants and bars. QD-3, Melashvili 33/35, tel. (+995) 599 70 92 03, [email protected], facebook.com/BatumiSurf. 6 rooms (2 double 25-30 Lari, 3 8-bed dorm 25-30 Lari). PAGW

guest houseBAtuMI pARty HouSeThis guest house is in a three-storey apartment in a con-venient location just a 5-minute walk to the seaside. There is a fitted kitchen, terrace and common areas on the sec-ond and third floors. It is a perfect place for big groups as well as couples. Party House can accommodate up to 15 people. The staff here is super friendly, and always willing to help you.QB-2, Abashidze Av. 62, tel./fax (+995) 595 18 03 15, [email protected], fb/seegeorgia. 4 rooms (3 double 100 Lari, 1 triple 160 Lari). AGW

birdwAtching

Just outside the city of Batumi, in the foothills of the Lesser Caucasus, on the eastern shoreline of the Black Sea is one of the best places to watch the migration raptors in the whole western Palearctic area. Here, it is possible to witness a migration spectacle rarely paral-leled anywhere in the world: over 1,000,000 raptors be-longing to 35 species are recorded here each autumn.

Of the 35 raptors that can be possibly seen in Batumi, several really stand out. The Honey Buzzard migra-tion begins in earnest during late August, with peak movements of birds continuing into the first week of September. Some of the highest counts of Honey Buz-zard anywhere in the world have been recorded right here in Batumi, with nearly 650,000 Honey Buzzards recorded in Autumn 2012.

Eagle migration is as interesting in Batumi as it is di-verse, with good possibilities for seeing Booted Eagle, Short-toed (Snake) Eagle, Lesser Spotted Eagle, Great-er Spotted Eagle, Steppe Eagle, and even (Eastern) Im-perial Eagle from the third week of September through the first weeks of October.

Falcons are also well-represented in the Batumi bottle-neck. By mid to late September, it is possible to see Common Kestrel, Lesser Kestrel, Red-footed Falcon, Hobby, Merlin, and Peregrine on the same day! Saker Falcon is also recorded on occasion.

BRC HoMeStAy Batumi Raptor Count, or BRC, is a nature conserva-tion NGO that works to monitor and conserve the 850,000+ birds of prey that migrate every autumn through the Batumi Bottleneck. The BRC organises accommodation with a full board around the region. You will be offered comfortable private rooms in a family’s house with shared bathroom. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are prepared at the desired time and it is also possible to ask for a food package to take away. Q village Sakhalvasho, 15 km. from Batumi, tel. (+995) 599 21 65 80, [email protected], www.batumiraptorcount.org. Room price 60Lari, in-cluding 35Lari for accommodation, 5Lari for booking service and 20Lari as a contribution to BRC Project.


Restaurants

georgiAnAjARIAN HouSeRather unusually, the garden outside the restaurant is dot-ted with intricate models of old buildings and traditional houses. Inside, it looks like an old tavern and it is often loud and smoke-filled. To escape, sit outside on the terrace. The menu is typical Ajarian cuisine, which is fairly different from Georgian. The most popular dish is Borano - cheese and butter baked in a clay pot. Chaqondrili is also inter-esting - meat with spices prepared with a special recipe.QG-2, Khimshiashvili 10, tel. (+995) 422 21 18 18. Open 09:00 - 01:00. (7-20Lari). PALBXSW

BeReG CAFéA huge place for up to 500 people located, as the Rus-sian name says, just next to the water beside Batumi port. There is seating inside, on the terrace and on a pier. It serves a European and Georgian menu with a good selec-tion of fish. Not just for eating at, but perfect for cheap coffee or beer in the afternoon while being cooled down by the breeze from the sea.QE-4,Gogebashvili 9. Open 08:00 - 02:00. PAGBX

BReMeNSolid, dark wood tables and chairs in a room that feels like could be part of a castle. There is no live music, in fact there is no music at all, and this is why we liked this place. The menu

editor’s note

A variety of cuisine usual for any European capital is pre-sented at Batumi dining scene. Whatever you prefer you MUST try Ajarian. If you don’t know what to choose from so unusual list of dished, start with Acharuli Khachapuri. For further cuisine research use our food decoding tips. The prices we list in brackets denote either average bill or per person if there is just one number. Sometimes we will also list the cost of the cheapest and most ex-pensive main course on the menu. And once again - check our list for non-smoking sym-bol if you can’t stand smoke, as most of the venues don’t have any non-smoking places.In some restaurants 10-15% will be included in the bill as service charge. Enjoy your meal!

sYMbol keY

P Air conditioning A Credit cards accepted

T Child-friendly U Facilities for the disabled

G Non-smoking E Live music

S Takeaway X Smoking place

T Child-friendly N Credit cards not accepted

B Outside seating I Fireplace

MAsPindzelo

Specailising in old Georgian recipes and cooking methods, their cuisine really shines. The atmosphere is homely, with an interior all made of wood. Trout on walnut leaves is our favourite dish, well, so it the Maspindzelo - ground, fried meat covered in sour cream sauce. Few of the staff speak English, but they will be warmly welcoming. Asking for the dish of the day could challenge your linguistic skills, but it is worth the attempt!QD-3, Melashvili 33/35, tel. (+995) 593 78 92 35. Open 09:00 - 02:00. PNW


Restaurants

ern Georgian cuisine. Our favourite is Sulguni cheese rolls with cottage cheese and mint, but chicken in blackberry sauce is also a must. Outside seating are located right on the Piazza Square with daily live music concerts.QE-3, Mazniashvili 27, tel. +995 577 51 01 50. Open 12:00 - 02:00. PAEBXSW

olD SHIpThis place is a bit hidden in between trees, on the Old Bou-levard. From the outside it looks like a ship. Go onboard and you will find two terraces and inside, a big restaurant with seating for over 200 people. The bar is where you would expect the wheelhouse to be. The menu is domi-nated by Georgian cuisine with and fair selection of fish dishes. Wine is available on tap. From 20:00 till 24:00 live music is played, so after enjoying the sunset from the ter-race, go on deck to party with your friends. QD-1, Old Boulevard (Seaside Park), tel. (+995) 558 32 37 87. Open 12:00 - 24:00. PAEBXW

SAMIKItNo MACHAKHelAThis is a fast-food style restaurant in terms of décor and pricing, but serving fresh and really tastefully cooked dishes. Specialising in Georgian cuisine, it has an extensive menu and a long drinks list. We choose it for a variety of unusual khinkali. About 15 different kinds, including kh-inkali with vagetables and khinkali with crab meat. This is one of a chain, with five restaurants in Tbilisi.QE-4, Go-gebashvili (near port), tel. (+995) 577 54 77 66, www.samikitno.ge. Open 24hrs. (5-18Lari). PAXSW

is mainly Georgian, tasty and served in big portions. The spe-ciality here is khinkali. The perfect place if you want to have diner on traditional Georgian way.QC-3, Parnavaz Mepe 61, tel. (+995) 422 27 76 36. Open 11:00 - 22:00. PX

KeIptowN / CApetowNA Georgian restaurant, a bit outside of the touristic city center, serves good traditional food. Dark and solid wood-en tables and chairs and typical wooden elements on the walls remind us of an old tavern somewhere in a medi-eval Georgian village. A separate room for non-smokers has free wi-fi. The owner takes great pride in his menu’s Georgian-Ajarian cuisine. According to the policy of the restaurant, everything here is hand-made made on-site. We recommend ojakhuri, khachapuri lazuri and a variation of Georgian barbeque mts’vadi chalagadji - made from a special cut of pork. There’s also your choice of cheap Geor-gian beer from Kazbegi or Natakhtari. QC-3, Vaja Pshave-la 39, tel. (+995) 571 55 29 92/(+995) 599 55 29 91. Open 09:00 - 23:00. (15-20 Lari). PNGXW

MIMINoOpened at the end of June 2013, it is one of the restaurants in Piazza complex and is a good example of a well done work. The interior is modern, simple and made with taste. An open kitchen makes it even better. The restaurant is named after famous Soviet comedy, so walls are covered with dozens of pictures from the movie. The menu looks so good, that you become hungry, even if you stop by only for a coffee. It features a mix of traditional and mod-


Restaurants

SAN ReMoUnusually and interestingly located on a pier out over the sea, this is a large restaurant with seating for up to 500 people. The menu is a mix of international cuisine and Georgian dishes. There are a good selection of fish and meat dishes. As well as the main dining room there are also a couple of more intimate “VIP” lounges available. On the outside terrace you can sit looking through glass panels in the floor straight down into the water. Live mu-sic every day from 20:00 - 01:00. The band plays a mix of international and Georgian covers. Music on request is also available.QI-1, Rustaveli 34, tel. (+995) 790 50 52 70. Open 11:00 - 02:00. 15-20Lari. PALEXW

up & DowNThis is a truly weird building by any standards. As the name suggest, it was built upside down. It looks like a small version of the US White House resting on its roof at a jaunty angle. The theme continues inside – even if you don’t feel the need, a visit to the toilets is a must! There are two floors and on both it looks like you are walking on the ceiling. The downstairs has a lot of tables, as well as lounge area and a well stocked bar. House specialty dishes are from the Lazia region, such as Ko-peshia - pumpkin with chilli pepper sauce and walnuts. Life music every day from 21:00 until midnight. QOpen 10:00 - 24:00.QG-2, Khimshiashvili (seaside coastline), tel. (+995) 599 96 63 73. Open 10:00 - 24:00. (35Lari). PLEBXSW

euroPeAnClouDSOne of the most upscale restaurants in the city, it offers a wide selection of European cuisines, from Italian pastas to Swedish meatballs. The views out from its glass walls to the Miracle Park from one side, and the Seaside Boule-vard from the other are superb. Total seating is for about 50 persons and there is a small VIP room for 10. DJs usually play on Friday nights and live bands on Saturdays.QE-2, Ninoshvili 1, Radisson Blu Batumi, tel. (+995) 422 25 55 55. Open 12:00 - 02:00. (40Lari). PAGXW

MARCo poloLocated on the 4th floor of the Piazza complex, this is probably the one and only fully non-smoking restaurant in the whole of Georgia! Styled like an attic with white painted wood and calm music that makes for a very relax-ing mood. It is ideal for lunch or dinner, especially if you want to escape from city bustle. European cuisine with strong French accent dominates the menu. The wine list not only has Georgian vintages, but also French and Italian.QE-3, Parnavaz Mepe 25, tel. (+995) 422 61 15 13, www.piazza.ge. Open 12:00 - 24:00. (30Lari). PAGW

Pier bAtuMiTaking over the part of Batumi beach right at the central entrance of the boulevard, Pier Batumi is a mighty complex that has different venues to offer, all of them open air. The place is run by Turks, so it doesn’t matter if it’s a Georgian res-taurant, a European one, a Beach Bar, a Lounge on the sea or a textile shop, Turkish quality and standards of service are the rule. The menu of international cuisine is dominance by Turkish with a strong flavor of seafood. And Pier’s hookah bar or beach area, equipped with chaise lounges, are among the best spots for watching the sunset. It’s like a busy (or lazy) tourist paradise: you can dine, you can drink, smoke hookah, get tanned and even do shopping at the same spot! Don’t hesitate to walk on that bridge reaching far out over the sea, especially at night. Let Pier Batumi surprise you. QD-1, Ba-tumi Boulevard, tel. +995 555 34 50 11, www.pierbatumi.com. Open 10:00 - 24:00. PAEBSW

fishFISH MARKetThe Fish Market is the perfect place if you love to eat fish and seafood as it is good, cheap and fresh. Our favourite fish is Barabulka; pick out four of them for a guaranteed feast. Your selection will be cooked for you right next door to the stall in only a few minutes. Just hand your catch to the chef and let him do the rest. A simple pan-fried dish is 6 Lari. They will also serve beer and vodka as well as bread, tasty tkemali sauce and salad. From the city centre take bus# 10 towards Makhinajauri (where the train station for Batumi is located) and get off on the next bus stop after the Revenue Service. The Fish Market is on the left side of the road.QOpen 08:00 - 20:00. NXS


Restaurants

gerMAnMüNICHOpened only in spring 2013, Münich brought a freshness to the local restaurant scene. A well-designed interior, with a black ceiling, brick walls, Bavarian paintings bring you to this famous German region. Big bar together with a careful music selection gets the tone just right. The kitch-en is partly open, and the fish selection is presented on ice, just next to the bar. Traditional bratwurst, knuckle or even whole pig is a menu feature. Not surprisingly there is an of-fering of German beers with Paulaner, Bitburger Eidinger, Heineken and Budwieser available. Outside is a beer gar-den with eight tables. A big TV broadcasts Bundesliga matches and other sport events.QE-3, Kutaisi/Kostava 8/5, tel. (+995) 422 22 72 84, www.inmunich.ge. Open 09:00 - 01:00. (30 Lari). PBXW

toweR ReStAuRANt & BReweRyA tower that looks a little like a lighthouse. You can climb the 30 meters to its top for views over the city or simply lounge on the terrace sipping one of its micro-beers, brewed on site and in both blond and dark options. The menu here is partly German, and it is the perfect place for an afternoon lunch or snack with sea views.QG-2, Kh-imshiashvili 9/11, tel. (+995) 558 17 76 76. Open 10:00 - 02:00. (15-27Lari). PEBXSW

internAtionAlDIvAN puBIt’s a truly a new word in the Batumi restaurant scene, en-riching the city with an understanding of high-class style, service, taste and subtlety. Opened just a few months ago, Divan Pub is situated on the first floor of one of the best hotels in the city, located in the heart of old Batumi. Divan Suites offers you a truly new standard of quality dining. The décor is very elegant, a combination of cream color, light brown and shades of gray. The European setting of the ‘pub’ is equally welcoming for business lunches, family dinners or classy date-nights. The cuisine is not going to leave you dis-appointed - a large variety of salads, plus fried calamari with mustard carrot salad from Divan’s Specials, pasta of your choice, an appetizing grill menu and a refined selection of desserts. Feel free to ask for the wine list for special Georgian or French bottles - they are available! QE-3,Jordania/Z. Gamsakhurdia 8/15, tel. +995 422 25 55 22, www.divan.com.tr. Open 10:00 - 24:00. PAEBSW

GolDeN pAlACeLocated next to the Golden Palace hotel lobby, the interior of the restaurant nicely combines modern and classic ele-ments. Our favorite feature is the comfortable green seats. Like many places in Batumi today, the menu offers Geor-gian, European and Turkish dishes. The menu features pas-tas, seafood, black sea fish and meat. Salmon soup is worth


Restaurantsa try, as well as the seafood pasta and lamb ribs in mustard sauce. For dessert we recommend the cheesecake with raspberry sauce. The large drinks menu is impressive, offer-ing most strong spirits and a wide variety of different cock-tails. In the beer section we found Guinness, a (relative) rarity on the Georgian bar scene.QK.Gamsakhurdia 8/10, tel. (+995) 422 21 25 30, www.goldenpalacebatumi.com. Open 24h. 50 Lari. PABXSW

loFtYou wouldn’t pass up a chance to dine on a rooftop with a view of the sea in Batumi, would you? The Terrace Res-taurant atop the 5-storey Batumi World Palace Hotel is arguably the best place for this experience in the city, and we have to say, the view of the sea from the terrace is out-standing. The restaurant offers Georgian, European and Turkish dishes. For starters, try the fried halloumi cheese salad, or pumpkin with garlic sauce. Grilled tenderloin shish kebab is a must. Meanwhile the chef recommends the fish. Feel free to ask the waitresses for the recommen-dation of the day. Specifically for chicken lovers we always recommend chkmeruli. The drinks menu is the standard assortment, plus raki of course. And if you insist on an air-conditioned area, the restaurant offer tables inside. Q E-3, Melashvili 13, tel. (+995) 422 22 57 90. Open 24h. (50 Lari). PABGXSW

turkishGRAND GRIllThis is one of the best places to watch the Dancing Foun-tains at 21:00. Located right over Ardagani lake, Grand Grill offers Turkish cuisine and an impressive selection of Black-Sea fish and other seafood. For a big company choose Grand Grill special - Fish in Salt - which is umbra or seabass, and costs 121 Lari per kg. There are also some traditional Georgian dishes on the menu. Special breakfast offer is available from 10:00 - 12:00 for 13.20Lari. Valued custom-ers and members are provided with 10% discount cards.QH-2, Khimshiashvili (Ardagani Lake), tel. (+995) 422 29 33 22, www.grand-grill.net. Open 10:00 - 24:00, Fri, Sat, Sun 10:00 - 01:00. (30Lari). PiALBSW

ukrAiniAnKozACHoKThis is a small restaurant where the interior and the menu are both distinctly Ukrainian. There are only six tables, but even once you have ordered, you could still have a little wait for your food. The reason is that everything is meticulously prepared in a traditional way. It’s worth the wait: everything is delicious. Our favourite dish is Kiev cut-let and Uha fish soup. There is an economy menu avail-able, a main course with sides starts from 6 Lari. There is no service fee, rather rare for Batumi.QD-2, Rustaveli Av. 7-9, tel. (+995) 557 56 06 06. Open 11:00 - 23:00. 15Lari. PAXSW

AjArA wine tourisM

Georgia is believed to be the birthplace of wine. The ear-liest evidence of wine making, over 7000 years ago, has been found here and the word “wine” is derived from the Georgian word “gvino”. Georgian wine was, and in some cases still is, produced in buried clay fermenting pots called Kvevri. Over 500 varieties of grape are found in Georgia, a greater diversity than anywhere else in the world. Around 40 of these different grapes are used in wine production. Natural mineral spring water from the Caucasus mountains, mild winters and warm summers combine to provide ideal conditions for wine making. Among western regions of Georgia, Ajara is one of the oldest centres of winemaking, with its historical heart in the Keda Municipality. “Tsolikauri” and “Chkhaveri” wines are produced here are very popular among Georgian as well as foreign consumers. The follow-ing winemakers offer the opportunity for visitors to become familiar with ancient Georgian winemaking traditions. They all offer wine tasting, Georgian dishes and wine for sale.

AjARIAN wINe HouSe Wines produced: Porto-Franco (dry rose wine), Tso-likauri. Q village Acharistkali, Khelvachauri Munici-pality, 20 km from Batumi, tel. (+995) 577 21 40 02. lADo SHAvISHvIlI’S A family wine hous, known for producing Chkhaveri and Tsolikauri wines. Accommodation is available. Qvillage Vaio, Keda Municipality, 45 km from Ba-tumi, tel. (+995) 599 78 36 59. NoDAR SHeRvASHIDze’S A family wine house produces Chkhaveri and Ojaleshi wines and offers accommodation for overnight stay. Qvillage Saghoreti, Keda Municipality, 36 km from Batumi, tel. (+995) 593 07 00 88. NuRI SIRABIDze’S A family wine house, which produces Tsolicauri wine and offers accommodation. Qvillage Gegelidzeebi, Keda Municipality, 49 km from Batumi, tel. (+995) 593 51 91 28.

Ajarian Wine House


CafésCAFé ReNNeSA newly opened, relax café with an interior that is a mix of modern and classic elements, some table seating but also a lounge room. The menu is European - French dishes, and italian pastas as well as choice of salads are available. The manager’s recommendation is the Rennes salad, - pork, mushrooms, tomatoes, cucumbers, sesame and soy sauce. There are also a few deserts, out favourite is the chocolate cake! Wines from Telavi Marani and Mukhrani and good selection of whiskey is big plus. The outside garden is nice, but a bit noisy.QD-2, K.Gamsakhurdia 6, entrance from Rustaveli Av., tel. (+995) 422 22 85 23. Open 10:00 - 00:30. PABXSW

FANFANOpened only a year ago, the place attracts like a magnet, thanks to a unique, easy-going atmosphere. The café is located in 1905 year building, which was owned by the fa-mous Georgian writer Chabua Amiredjibi. Two rooms were redesigned in an eclectic style, which creates a very friend-ly atmosphere for meetings, or drinking a pint of beer in-side, as well as on the outside terrace. One of a few animal friendly places in the city, with a cat that walks around and sleeps on the sofa. On summer evenings, live music is often played here, mostly jazz. A little pricey menu isn’t long, but interesting and offers European cuisine. For you, dessert lovers, chocolate mousse is a must.QB-1, Ninosh-vili 27, tel. (+995) 591 15 00 51. Open 09:00 - 03:00. PAEGBXSW

lA BRIoCHeThis delightful café has top-location at Piazza Square. There are dozens of tables around the square, and a nice li-brary style hall on the 3rd floor. La Brioche has an extensive menu, which includes salads (11-19Lari), pizza (13-20Lari) and a selections of main dishes usual for European cuisine. Live music plays here each day until late.QE-3, Parnavaz Mepe 25, Piazza Hotel, tel. (+995) 422 61 15 13, www.piazza.ge. Open 09:00 - 02:00. PAGBXW

lA teRRASSeAn Italian café by name rather than cuisine, its menu mainly an offering of international dishes with a selection of pizza and pasta, but there are also a couple Georgian dishes, as well as good choice of fish. The dessert selection includes several types of ice cream, panna cotta and some other usual cakes. The décor inside is a chic black and gold design warmed up by an illuminated orange ceiling. There are also tables outside should you wish to dine al fresco.QD-3, K. Gamsakhurdia 21/23, tel. (+995) 593 20 20 06. Open 10:00 - 01:00. PAGBXSW

lIteRAtuRulIA café that also sells books, mainly Georgian, but also a few titles in English too. Feels like a 1960s family kitchen with its décor, and furnishings, black and white chequered floor tiles and freshly-made cakes stacked under Perspex cake domes. Even more cakes, tarts and strudels sit in a revolving display cabinet. Tea, coffee and desert are the

main purpose of Literaturuli, but they also serve alcohol and a selection of snacks.QD-3, K. Gamsakhurdia 18, tel. (+995) 422 27 20 13. Open 10:00 - 23:00. PN�BXSW

pReSS CAFéIts spacious, modern interior also acts as a gallery for regu-larly changed photographic exhibitions. Originally found-ed by a journalist from an independent media NGO who wanted a meeting place for gatherings and discussions. It is a free venue for anybody who wants to organise meet-ings here. Well, part from politicians, who only get the first twenty minutes free, after that they have to pay! The cui-sine here is mainly European, with the only Georgian dish being khachapuri. There are a lot of interesting salads on the menu, as well as pizzas.QE-3, Melashvili 2, tel. (+995) 555 95 66 85. Open 10:00 - 01:00. PAXW

pRIvet Iz BAtuMAOne of the best loved cafés in the city and once there, you’ll realise why. A relaxed atmosphere and a décor of old pictures of Batumi hanging on walls painted in pleasing colours. The music is not too loud, and the vibe is chillout, so is a perfect place for a gentle meal, or just coffee. The menu is European, with a French and Italian flavour. The most popular dish is pizza roma classic. Their desserts are varied and tasty. There are also several tables outside.QC-2, Abashidze Av. 39, tel. (+995) 422 27 77 66. Open 10:00 - 00:30. PALBXSW


Decoding the Menu

Georgians are proud of their national cuisine, and rightly so. There are many distinct dishes, with regional variations. Meat, pastries, dumplings, stews and vegetarian dishes are all represented, though fish features only lightly. Georgian food isn’t hot and spicy, but it is certainly flavoursome. Wal-nuts, pomegranates and garlic, cheese, beans, aubergine, spinach and plums are all used to devastating effect. In the summer, fresh coriander is used extensively, so this could cut down your options if you don’t like it.

The soils of Georgia are very rich and the fresh fruit and vegetables they produce are flavour bombs. Sink your teeth into peaches or plums and the taste explodes. Oh, and the grapes…. One of the main reasons Georgian food is so good is because of these amazing ingredients, much of which is produced by small farmers and sold straight to you at the local fruit and veg market. Just buy-ing some bread, tomatoes and fruit here will be a stunning meal.

There are many restaurants specialising in Georgian foods in Tbilisi, they vary in quality, of course, but most are good. They wouldn’t last long if they weren’t as Georgians are dis-cerning eaters when it comes to national cuisine. However, if you can, get yourself invited to eat at a Georgian home, that is where the really great food is cooked.

These are some of the most popular Georgian dishes:

souP & MeAtAbhazura Originally from Abkhazia. Spicy meat ball made of mince pork and beef mixed with pieces of pomegranate. Deep fried and sometimes served on French fries.

Chkmeruli (or tsitsila chkmerulad) Fried chicken served in a clay dish, dipped in a strong garlic-based sauce.

Chikhirtma Chicken soup thickened with egg, and served with large portion of chicken, usually breast meat.

Kharcho Beef soup with herbs and rice.

Kubdari Meat pie originally from Svanetia region. Try it with a little satsabeli, a sauce made of tomatoes and sweet pepper.

Meat khinkali Dumplings filled with meat (the most popular option). There is special way of eating khinkali. The dumpling has bullion inside so you should grab it by it’s pinched top, bite a small hole near the base, suck out the delicious juice and then eat the rest. Any Georgians eating with you will be impressed, especially if you don’t loose a drop of juice onto your plate. Mtsvadi Marinated pieces of pork meat grilled over a wood fire. Perfect with satsebeli sauce. Ojakhuri Grilled meat, fried potatoes onion and garlic.

Usually served on clay plate (ketsi)Ostri Tomato and beef spicy stew. Try it with a dry red wine and some bread.Tkemali Sweet and sour sauce made of tart plums. Goes perfectly with roasted meat.

vegetAriAnBadrijani Fried slices of aubergine usually toped with a rich walnut paste.Khachapuri Cheese pie, the most popular snack, which you can find almost everywhere. There is also a Megrelian version with two layers of cheese, and an Adjarian one that is spindle shaped with raw egg on top.Lobio A thick stew made from crushed red beans served in a clay pot.Pkhali Spinach or beetroot mixed with walnut sauce and sweet peppers or eggplants stuffed with walnuts.

Puri Georgian spindle shaped bread made in unique oven. Visiting a traditional bakery is a must. Vegeterian khinkali Dumplings filled with mushrooms (sokos khinkali), potatoes (kartopili khinkali),cheese (kvelis khinkali).Lobiani Pastry filled with bean paste. Matsoni Thin sour yogurt. Try it with crushed walnuts and fresh honey – everything in life should taste this good!

sweetsChurchkhela nicknamed “georgian snickers”. String of nuts covered with dry grape syrup. Often found in fruit markets or fruit shops. When buying, pay attention to the texture. A good one should be springy rather than hard.Chiri All the different types of dried fruits. Gozinaki A special traditional New Year desert made with walnuts and honey.

Pelamushi “Georgian jelly” grape juice and flour based sweet stew.

You haven’t been in Georgia if you didn’t try khinkali


AjAriAn dishesAjara is famous for its local cuisine, and differs from other Georgian cooking. The climate and lifestyle of these high-lands means dairy products are strongly represented in many Ajarian dishes. Ajarian cheese is different from that in other regions of Georgia. Try Borano, Ajarian Khachapuri or Achma. Locals are proud about local sour cream - Kai-maghi, and use it in many dishes. They also use loads of butter. The region has a coastline and lots of mountain rivers, so fish also feature prominently. Our choice is trout baked in walnut leaves. These are some more of the most popular dishes:

Ajarian Khachapuri Probably the most popular dish in Ajara. Try it, is a must! Spindle shaped cheese pie with a piece of butter and very often a raw egg on top. There’s a special consumption technique: eat it with your hands, detach small pieces from the side, mix the butter and egg and dip the piece you pulled. Beer is a must accompani-ment. Enjoy!

Ajarian Kawarma Thin-sliced meat seasoned with chilli, served in a ketsi.

Achma It’s dough and cheese. Sounds like Khachapuri? Well yes, but this is shaped like lasagne though. It’s quite fatty and filling.

Borano Cheese and butter baked in clay pot called a ket-si. Goes perfectly with bread and local white wine. When called kobuletian style, it come with egg.

Chirbuli Usually served at breakfast: scrambled eggs with veggies, usually mainly cauliflower, and of course, an enormous amount of butter.

Sinori Thin bread like Armenian lavash rolls, dipped in cottage cheese, kaimaghi and butter.

Baklava The Ajari version of this famous dessert: a pastry with honey and walnuts.

Oriental (sometimes called Turkish) Coffee In Batumi it is often called Batumian or Batumuri. Made from ground-ed coffee, traditionally prepared on hot sand.

Decoding the Menu

drinking in georgiA

Drinking is an important part of Georgian culture. After all, the oldest evidence of wine making was discovered here. Wine is far more important than any other alcohol. Wine is associated with cultural and religious traditions, beer is secondary and holds no ritualistic connotations. Georgians are incredibly hospitable, and wine plays an essential part in that hospitality. You should expect to be offered wine when spending time with Georgians. Be prepared to drink at least one glass, refusing the first glass might be considered impolite. You can say no af-ter that, but you might need to negotiate your way out of a heavy session.

Drinking alcohol, but particularly wine is rarely a pas-time in itself. For Georgians drinking is closely associ-ated with food. In that way it is more similar to the Spanish rather than the British attitude to alcohol.

Supra is core part of Georgian culture. Essentially it is a simply a gathering, a social event with food and drink. A supra can formal or informal, happy or sad, a birthday, an anniversary or a wake. It might just be a group of Geor-gians friends, celebrating the simple fact that they are alive that day. But it will never be merely a night out. It will be a Supra, with all the gravitas and tradition that implies.

Every Supra has its tamada and it will usually be a man. Roughly speaking, they are the toastmaster, but their role is far more complex. They will be the person mak-ing toasts, but the subjects they choose will often di-rect and dictate the flow of conversation. They will also regulate the intensity of the supra by speeding up or slowing down the drinking. Georgians don’t usually sip wine; they drink a glass together after each toast. Every supra will start with a series of traditional toasts that might include, to the reason for the gathering, to the homeland, to family, to mothers, to deceased relatives. The tamada will often talk about the topic before the actual toast. The others raise their glasses but do not drink until the tamada has finished talking.

Chacha is also an important drink. It is the Geor-gian high-octane alcohol, a distilled spirit made with the mash left over from wine production. It can be a smooth sophisticated spirit or it can be evil - stuff to strip the plaster as well as the paint off a wall.


Nightlife

Batumi doesn’t have a wide selection of bars and night-clubs. But there are some really good ones. It is a social city but does not have a big clubbing culture. In summer time beach bars and clubs appear on the seacost.

bArstHe BAR 32It has no particular name, so we call it “the bar”. A nice place run by some young girls is the place where you can find in-ternational company. It’s all about atmosphere here. If you’re looking for fun, a glass of beer or a shot of chacha, this place is a must. QE-3, Melashvili 32, tel. (+995) 557 94 51 60, fb/htebar32. Open 15:00 - 03:00. PAEBXW

BlACK BuDDHAThere aren’t many nightlife spots in Batumi, but Black Bud-dha is certainly worth mentioning. Located on the ground floor of President Palace Hotel, it has modern black and gold decor including, of course, a Buddha statue in pride of place. The menu features sushi (it may be the only place offering it in Batumi), sandwiches and salads. There is no live music, but there are chill-out lounge tunes played on the speakers.QD-2, Baratashvili 17, tel. (+995) 422 27 69 51. Open 09:00 - 04:00. PABXW

eSpReSSo BAR SINAtRALocated in between Vinyl, and Brighton Hotel, Espresso Bar Sinatra lives up to its name of serving high-class cof-fee. There are three small rooms, light and full of black and white photos plus two more tables outside. The menu

is European, including pasta and pizza, with a couple of Mexican dishes added in. But it is not the food that makes this place stand out from the crowd: it is the coffee. They boast thirty different ways to serve the stuff, from simple espresso to alcoholic coffee drinks and iced coffees. A real paradise for coffee lovers.QD-2, Dumbadze 12, tel. (+995) 56 60 50. Open 08:00 - 01:00.

quIet woMAN puBIs there a city anywhere in the world, that doesn’t have an Irish pub? The Quiet Woman is Batumi’s version of this strange global phenomenon. Located in the main tourist attraction - Piazza Square - it offers an impressive beer choice. There is a simple, but tasty food selection. There is the essential Irish pub big screen for showing sports and there is outside seating during the summer season. It is a bit pricy, but certainly a popular place. QE-3, Mazniash-vili 27, tel. (+995) 577 78 65 65, www.piazza.ge. Open 11:00 - 02:00. PAEBXW

vINylOnly five tables inside, and two outside, but what a charm-ing bar it is. The walls are decorated with painted vinyl discs. This place is popular with expats, as well as young Georgians. Perfect for meeting friends to have a couple of pints, or shots.QD-2, Dumbadze 12/14, tel. (+995) 593 33 14 99. Open 12:00 - 03:00.

cAsinosAjARABetQD-2, Akhmeteli 7A, tel. (+995) 422 27 43 53, www.ajarabet.com. Open 24hrs. POALKXW

GolDeN pAlACe CASINoQE-3, K.Gamsakhurdia 8/10, tel. +995 422 21 25 30, www.goldenpalacebatumi.com. Open 24h. AGRAND INtouRISt CASINoQD-2, Ninoshvili 11, tel. (+995) 422 27 55 25,, www.intouristpalace.com. Open 24hrs. POLKXW

IveRIA BAtuMIQE-2, Ninoshvili 1, tel. (+995) 555 42 21 44, www.casinoiveria.ge. Open 24hrs. POALKXW

peACeQB-2, Ninoshvili 21, tel. (+995) 422 27 85 85, www.casinopeace.com. Open 24hrs. PLKXW

clubsARt-BoulevARDA large modern design café, with seating for up to 150, where silver painted metal and glass dominates. The café turns into a night club after dark. The menu is international, with bbq and fish dishes playing a big part. The bar is well equipped with alcohol, especially rums. In the high season music starts at 20:00, usually calm at first, but building the BPM as the night progresses. You can also sit outside dur-ing the summer.QB-1, 26 Maisi 2, tel. (+995) 555 95 66 85. Open 12:00 - 24:00. PAEBXSW


SightsCHACHA toweR

This fountain tower, widely known as ‘chacha tower’ is an exact copy of a building standing in Batumi at the beginning of 20th cen-tury. The 25-metre clock tower is surrounded by four fountain pools. Rather unusually, yet quintessen-tially Georgian, each day at 19:00 for ten minutes the

fountains spout Chacha, strong Georgian alcohol!QE-3.

ColoNNADeSThe elegant white Greek-style colonnades where initially built as an entrance to the beach. The initial concept came from Ivane Mchedlidze, a local doc-tor, who fell in love with Sorrento’s classical colon-nades while on a trip to It-aly in the early 1930s. Over the last 80 years, the sea re-

treated considerably and the water’s edge is now far from this historical monument. Similar colonnades were also built as the entrance to 6th May Park.QD-1, Seaside Park.

DANCING FouNtAINSInstalled back in 2009, in Ardagani Lake, these French musical foun-tains are worth long walk here. The daily show usu-ally starts after sunset. The fountains ‘dance’ to the musical soundtrack of modern pop, rock and classical music. We were treated to the particular

pleasure of the fountains dancing to AC/DC‘s “Highway to Hell”! There is a laser show, telling the history of Batumi and Georgia. Take a seat either on the sea side of the Lake or on the special places set out along the opposite lake shore.QH-2.

euRope SquAReYou will probably pass here dozens of times during your stay in Batumi. Its name comes from the fact of joining Ba-tumi to the Assembly of European Regions. The statue of Medea was placed in the centre of the square as a symbol of ancient Georgian connections with the European world. Concerts of Jose Carreras, Andrea Bocelli, Bueno Vistas So-cial Club and many others have been held here - 50,000 people crammed in for the Enrique Iglesias gig back in 2011! Just next to Medea statue there is a useful bike rental point.QD-2.

essentiAl bAtuMiAlI & NINo

The statue depicts eternal love and understanding between nations. It was named after the ‘Ali and Nino’ novel by an Azer-baijani author using the pseudonym Kurban Said. It tells a story of a young Muslim Azerbaijani man and a Georgian Christian princess in time of the First

World War. The eight metre statues, of a man and a woman are the work of Georgian sculptor Tamar Kvesitadze. Both statues move, changing their position every 10 minutes, until they become one. At night the sculptures are lit with changing colours, a magnetically beautiful sight.QF-2.

AlpHABet toweRThe Georgian alphabet is unique and is believed to date from around the 5th century. It underwent numerous changes be-fore the modern version emerged. In 2012 a 130 metre tall tower with a twisting DNA helix shape was constructed, dedicat-ed to the Georgian alpha-

bet. There were plans for a restaurant and an observatory, but sadly it has closed and its future is uncertain.QE-1.

AStRoNoMIC CloCKReminiscent of the his-toric examples in Prague and Venice, Batumi has recently acquired its own astronomic clock, installed on the tower of the former building of the National Bank of Georgia. A melodi-cally chime indicates the full hour, a single ring the half-hour. Apart from the

time of day, the clock also shows astronomical informa-tion – the placement of the sun and the moon, the moon phase, the meridian and the horizon.QD-2.

BAtuMI lIGHtHouSeThe first lighthouse was built in Batumi in 1863 during Ottoman rule, while the Russians erected the second in 1878. French engineers built the present 21-metre stone construction in 1882. It sits on the edge of Burun-tabie cape. In past, the lighthouse had white lights, but today they are red.QF-1.


SightspANoRAMIC wHeelDefinitely the most noticeable attraction in the city, the Panoramic Wheel is located right next to the Ali & Nino statues and close to both the Alphabetic and Chacha towers. A single cycle will last 10 minutes, taking you to a height of 55 metres and giving views all over the city height. The wheel was constructed by Italian company and can hold 240 people at once.QF-2. Open 10:00 - 20:00. Admission 2Lari.

pIAzzA SquAReIt is one of the most beau-tiful places in Batumi, yet as its name suggests, it is distinctly Italian and so a little incongruous for Georgia, but in Batumi, when it comes to archi-tecture, it seems anything goes! The Square covers about 5700 square metres and is surrounded by the

Piazza complex, which includes a hotel, a couple of restau-rants, a café and a pub. The architecture is distinguished by mosaics and stained glass art. Live music is performed here daily in café La Brioche and the square usually hosts concerts of world famous musicians visiting Batumi.QE-3.

PArks & gArdens6 MAy pARK

As we mentioned previ-ously, the city’s first gar-den was established in 1881 by the German gar-den designer, Reseller. Fur-ther work on Batumi Bou-levard and the park was continued by the French gardener, D’Alphonse. In 1888, the Russian Emperor Alexander III visited Ba-

tumi and was fascinated by the gardener’s work. With his family, he planted several trees and it was subsequently named Alexander’s Garden. Since then, the name has changed periodically and is today 6 May Park. At its far end is a zoological corner, a dolphinarium, and an aquarium. The beautiful Nurigeli Lake is located in the middle of the park.QA/B-2.

BAtuMI BoulevARD (SeASIDe pARK)Probably the oldest at-traction in Batumi, con-struction of the boulevard began in 1881, when the Governor of the Batumi District assigned the Ger-man gardener, Reseller,

to create a park alongside the sea shore of Batumi Old Town. Nowadays, Batumi Boulevard has reached a length of around 7 kilometres and is approximately divided into ‘new’ and ‘old’ boulevards. The original and beautiful park is still here, with the addition of modern sculptures, benches and fountains. During the height of the summer season the seashore is busy with cafés, restaurants, beach bars and clubs. In the off-season it’s simply a beautiful sea-side boulevard. Stroll along at any time of the day, a quiet morning or hot afternoon, but you must come here just before sunset. Seeing the sun sink into the sea is sublime and unforgettable.QA/F-1, F-1/5, H/J-1. W

BotANICAl GARDeNThis is one the biggest and richest botanical gardens in the world. Located near Mtsvane Kontskhi (Green Cape) resort, it was the brainchild of the prominent Russian botanist and physical geographer Andrey Krasnov. The plants species displayed come from many utterly different climatic and landscape zones. To get to the Garden take marchrutka #31 or 150 from Parnavaz Mepe Street or Tbilisi square.QMtsvane Kontskhi, Makhinjauri, www.bbg.ge. Open 08:00 - 21:00. Admission 6 Lari, free entrance for children under 10.

churchesMost of the churches will be open during the day with the Georgian liturgy ceremony usually held at 16:00 on Satur-day and 09:00 on Sunday.

ARMeNIAN ApoStolIC CHuRCHOriginally a wooden church built in 1873. De-stroyed in the 1880s, a new stone church was built with local donations and the works was carried out under the supervision of an Austrian architect. It was used as a planetarium dur-ing the Soviet times, which

saved the building from destruction. In 1992 the Planetar-ium was moved to Batumi State University and the church was re-opened.QD-3, K.Gamsakhurdia 25.

BAtuMI CAtHolIC CHuRCHThe newest in the city, the Church of Holy Spirit was built in 2000 and conse-crated by Giuseppe Pasotto, the Ordinary of Apostolic administration of Caucasus. The Church is really impres-sive, has a modern design and is located not far from the port. Arriving in Batumi from Tbilisi you’ll notice it

on the left side of the road.QE-4, Gogebashvili 54.


tHe vIRGIN NAtIvIty CAtHeDRAlAt the end of 19th century, Batumi’s Catholics, along with the European consul-ates in the city, requested the building of a church. It was constructed in 1897 in a Neo-Gothic style, with three domes. In Soviet times it was used as an ar-chive and a high-voltage laboratory. Today it is the

main Cathedral of Batumi.QC-4, Chavchavadze 25.

ActivitiesAquA pARKEntertainment for children and adults, the Aquapark is located on the New Bou-levard, next to the sea. It is rather small, but has every-thing to keep you, and your kids happy. There are two big pools and one children’s.QG-2, Khimshiashvili 12, tel. (+995) 422 21 01 01.

AquARIuMOpened in 1966, it initially housed North Pacific pinni-peds, fur otters and Caspian seals. There were also 60 spe-cies of fish from both fresh-waters and seas around the world. Today it houses around 100 species of fish from the Black Sea, Georgia’s freshwa-ters and also a number of exotic and decorative species.QJ-1, Rustaveli Av. 51, tel. (+995) 422 22 17 30, www.parkbatumi.ge. Open 10:00 - 19:00. Admission 2Lari.

Sights

trAvel Agencies

ADjARA touRQB-4, Chavchavadze 48, tel. (+995) 422 27 87 78, www.adjaratour.com/en.

CAlypSo tRAvelQD-2, Ninoshvili 1, Intourist Palace Hotel, tel. (+995) 422 276556, [email protected], www.calypso.ge. Open 10:00 - 19:00.

woNDeRlANDQD-3, K. Gamsakhurdia 36, tel. (+995) 422 27 69 84, www.wonderland.ge. Open 10:30 - 19:00, Sat 10:30 - 16:00. Closed Sun.

oRtAjAMeThe Mosque got its name due to its position be-tween two other Muslim temples (‘orta’ is middle in Turkish). It was built in 1880s and is the only sur-viving Mosque in Batumi. As with all other religious monuments, it was closed during the Soviet era. In 1990s renovation works

were carried out and the Mosque resumed its spiritual and cultural services.QE-4, Chkalova 6.

St BARBARA’S CHuRCHThis small church is located on the site of a former mili-

tary hospital. Its construc-tion began in 1888 under direction and sponsorship of the Emperor Alexander III. The Church was closed during the Soviet times and re-opened again only in 1997.QC-2, Rustaveli Av. 26.

St NICKolAS CHuRCHLocated next to Piazza Square, it is one of the most beau-

tiful buildings in Batumi. The Greeks initiated the construction of the church, while Batumi was under the rule of the Ottoman’s Empire. The Sultan allowed the church to be built un-der one condition: that it there wouldn’t be any bells installed. The stones were

brought from Trabzon and construction works started in 1865. It was completely renovated in 2012.QE-3, Parnavaz Mepe 24.

SyNAGoGueIn 1899 the Jewish popula-tion of Batumi got permis-sion from the Russian Em-peror to build a synagogue in the city and it opened in 1904. During Soviet times it housed several sport organisations. It was re-opened as a synagogue in 1998 and renovated.QC-3, Vazha Pshavela 33.


SightsDolpHINARIuMThe first dolphinarium was open in Batumi in 1975 and was re-opened in 2011. Dol-phinariums are increasingly controversial, with some pres-sure groups pushing for them to be banned in the EU. The Batumi Dolphinarium pro-vides a show for up to 700 spectators and offers visitors the opportunity at trying their hand as dolphin trainers. The show is performed in Georgian, English and Russian. There are three shows per day at 14:00, 17:00 and 21:00. There are special facilities for disabled people.QRustaveli Av. 51, tel. (+995) 422 22 17 30, www.parkbatumi.ge. Tickets: day show 12Lari, night show 16Lari. Swimming with dolphins is avail-able. Rates: 3-12 years - 60Lari, 12-18 years - 100 Lari, adults 150 Lari. Free bar is included.

zoo CoRNeRThe history of this small zoo dates back to 1898, when Batumi animal defence soci-ety founded enclosures for animals. In 1971 the wooden pens were replaced with more modern enclosures and the number of captive species was increased. The focus was to represent the Georgian en-demic species: Caucasian brown bear, wolf, jackal, badger, fox and deer. Additionally different exotic animals and birds, such as monkeys, eagles, parrots and peacocks were added. Today the site spreads over two hectares. Another small zoo corner is located on Ninoshvili Street, not far from Sheraton Batumi Hotel.QJ-2, Rustaveli Av. 51, tel. (+995) 422 22 17 30, www.parkbatumi.ge. Open 10:00 - 19:00. Admission 2Lari.

MuseuMsARCHeoloGICAl MuSeuM oF BAtuMIQB-4, Chavchavadze 77, tel. (+995) 422 27 65 64. Open 10:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon. Admission 2Lari, 1Lari stu-dents, 0.50Lari for children.

HouSe-MuSeuM oF MeMeD ABASHIDzeQE-2, Memed Abashidze 7, tel. (+995) 422 27 61 12. Open 10:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon, Sun. Free admission.

StAte ARt MuSeuM oF ADjARAQB-2, Gorgiladze 8, tel. (+995) 0422 27 38 94. Open 11:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon. Admission: 2Lari, students 1Lari, children 0.50Lari.

gonio fortressGonio-Apsaros Fortress is located 12 kilome-tres south of Batumi, on the left bank of the river Chorokhi. It is the site of one of the old-est Georgian settle-ments that was located around the fortress, and a location with unique strategic impor-tance. It protected the entrances to Chorokhi and Acharistskali Gorg-es, which connected

inland regions of south-western Georgia with the Black Sea. Due to this fact Gonio was a citadel first for the Romans and later for Byzantium and the Ot-tomans. The Fortress consists of several layers – the Roman (4th-3rd century BC), the Byzantine (6th-7th century) and the Ottoman (16th century). The history of Gonio is closely connected with the legend of the Argonauts. According to the legend, it is here that the King Aeetes buried his son Apsaros, killed by Jason. It is believed that Mathias, one of the 12 Apostles is also buried here, making a significant Christian site. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00. Admission 2 Lari.

BAtuMI puBlIC velo SySteM A cool, convenient and affordable. It was launched in 2011 and is popular with both locals and tourists. There are spe-cial bike lanes around the city and several points to take and leave the bike. Bicycle lanes run along Batumi coast and the streets of the Old City area. The length of the cos-tal route is about 30 km from Makhinjauri to Kvariati. There are 3 types of cards available: - 1 day card for 2 Lari (minimum deposit 1 hour/2 Lari);- 10 days card for 4 Lari (minimum deposit 3 hours/6 Lari);- 1 year card for 10 Lari (minunum deposit 5 hours/10 Lari). Q Street terminals operate 24 hours.


Kobuleti

Kobuleti has a distinct microclimate, different from the other coastal resorts of Ajara. The resort sits on the Kolkhe-ti lowland, 25 kilometres from Batumi. The mild and humid subtropical climate of the Black Sea, ionized sea air, gentle sun and warm sea provide this spa town with its distinc-tive medicinal properties, said to have a favourable effect on both chronic and cardiovascular pathologies. The hos-pitality is equally warm and invigorating. Kobuleti also has its own distinct traditions and historical sites. The Hellenistic site of Pichvnari has artefacts dating from the first and second millennia BC and is one of the most distinguished archaeological monuments of the Georgian Black Sea region. Kobuleti City Museum has over 3,500 exhibits representing archaeological, historical and ethnographic treasures of the region.

Getting there From Batumi Kobuleti can be reached by train, public transport (marshrutka # 123), or a taxi. For get-ting around Kobuleti use public transport (Bus, Minibus/Marshutka) or a taxi.

where to stAYCHveNI ezo QAgmashenebeli 492, tel. (+995) 599 79 19 07, [email protected], www.chveni-ezo.ge. 9 rooms (doubles 55US$, triples 60US$, family suites 100US$). PLXW hhh

CoNDoRI QAgmashenebeli 280, tel. (+995) 577 44 88 82, [email protected], www.condori.ge. 32 rooms (doubles 70US$, suites 120US$). PNLX hhh

GeoRGIA pAlACe QAgmashenebeli 275, tel. (+995) 32 224 24 00, fax (+995) 32 224 24 02, [email protected], www.gph.ge. 156 rooms (standards 250-300US$, suites 300-350US$). PiAFLGKDXW hhhhh

KoBuletI BeACH CluB QAgmashenebeli 373A, tel. (+995) 599 56 96 77, [email protected], www.kbchotel.com. 9 rooms (single 120US$, double 210US$). PiALGXW hhh

sights & historYKobuleti Municipality is rich in historical and religious monuments. There are numerous medieval fortresses, churches as well as ancient arched bridges. The most im-portant historical monuments are Petra Fortress in the village of Tsikisdziri, Achi Church of St. George’s Church in Achi, Tetrosani (White), St. George’s Church found in the area of the Gvara and Khutsubani villages, Khinots-minda Episcopal Church in Kintrishi Valley, St. Helen and Constantine Church in Kvirike, Kvirike Mosque also in Kvirike. Kobuleti Museum is also certainly worth visiting. (Agmashenebeli 100).

nAturAl resourcesThe majority of the protected areas in Ajara are located within the municipality of Kobuleti. They have a notable biodiversity of flora and fauna.

KoBuletI pRoteCteD AReAS QAghmashenebeli 645 (end of Bagrationi str. so called Chapaevka), tel. (+995) 577 10 18 97. Lies ap-proximately 30 km from Batumi. Its area stretches over 770 hectares in a strip less than 300 metres from the sea coast. Ispani is a unique sphagnum peaty bog with rare species of flora. It is also an excellent place for birdwatching. Ad-ministration: Leselidze 44, Kobuleti.

KINtRISHI pRoteCteD AReAS Qvillage Tskhemvani, tel. (+995) 577 59 21 12. The beautiful Kintrishi Valley lies 55 kilometres from Batumi. The valley lies between the Tskhemlovani and Khino mountains, at 2,500 metres above sea level and com-prises 13,893 hectares. Most of the territory is occupied by mountains and gorges. The main area is covered with forest. The rivers Kintrishi and Kheknara flow through the reserve. It is rich in species of the Colchis flora. There is a visitor centre with six beds for overnight accommodation. Administration: Leselidze 4, Kobuleti.

MtIRAlA NAtIoNAl pARK QChakvi district, village Chakvistavi, tel. (+995) 577 10 18 89. Mtirala National Park is located in the most western part of the Ajara-Imereti range, on the Kobuleti-Chakvi ridge, covering 15,306 hectares. At 1381 metres above sea level, it is the rainiest territory in Georgia, hence the name “mtirala” meaning “weeping.” The park remains a protected site for Colchis flora and fauna in-cluding rare and endangered endemic and relict spe-cies. The following are included in on the Red List of Georgia: lynx, brown bear, Caucasian squirrel, Caucasian salamander, Caucasian adder and the butterflies – Apol-lo and Caucasian festoon. Among the relatively bigger fowl there are small eagles, kites, hawks, etc. Visitor centre offers eight beds and a kitchen. Another option to stay overnight is a shelter eight kilometres from the visitor centre. Mtirala National Park offers guide services, picnic and camping facilities and horse riding. Adminis-tration: Tchavtchavadze 13, Chakvi.


pIRAMIDAThere are 5 pool tables and 2 Russian billiards in Piramida. 1 hour of the game costs 10 Lari.QD-3, Melashvili 37, tel. (+995) 555 45 30 50. Open 24hrs.

fitness centresFitness centres in Batumi are mostly located inside the ho-tels and are open to all visitors outside the hotel. We recom-mend visiting fitness centres in Sheraton Batumi, Radisson Blu Batumi, Prezident Plaza and Georgian Palace in Kobu-leti. Another good option is Marina Tourism Centre.

MARINA touRISM CeNtReThe centre is located right on the seashore. The facilities include a 3-star hotel, 25m swimming pool, basketball yard, football playground, billiards, sauna, two tennis courts and several cafes and restaurants, beach club and bungalows.QG-2, Khimshiashvili 10, tel. (+995) 422 24 44 00, www.marigroup.ge.

swiMMing PoolsMARINA touRISM CeNtRe25x10 m closed indoor pool. Admission 10 Lari per hour.QG-2, Khimshiashvili 10, tel. (+995) 422 24 44 00, www.marigroup.ge. 11:30 - 14:30, 20:00 - 22:00.

SHeRAtoN BAtuMIOpen air swimming pool, admission 30 Lari per person for a whole day in the hotel’s fitness centre.QB-2, Rustaveli Av. 28, tel. (+995) 422 22 90 00. Open 07:00 - 23:00.

tennis courtsBAtuMI teNNIS CluB20Lari per hour per one court, including racquets and balls.QC-1, Ninoshvili 4, tel. (+995) 422 22 19 91. Open 08:00 - 21:00.

DirectoryWhether you are a traveller or an ex-pat, our directory con-tains many useful contacts for you. Click on the left for list-ings. Remember to email us if you find any of our contacts particularly helpful or, for that matter, unhelpful. We also welcome new additions.

24 hour PhArMAciesAveRSIAlso at P. Bagrationi 140, tel. (+995) 422 24 80 28.QB-4, Chavchavadze 39, tel. (+995) 422 22 20 36.

GpCAlso at Chavchavadze 4, Gamsakhurdia 49, Gorgiladze 30.QA-4, Chavchavadze 113, tel. (+995) 422 22 03 69.

pSpQB-4, Chavchavadze 46, tel. (+995) 422 22 45 88.

beAutY sAlonsAFRICAN queeNAfro-American Hairdressing.QD-4, Zubalashvili 14/25A, tel. (+995) 422 22 59 48. 09:00- until late night.

A-SAloNQA-4, Chavchavadze 97, tel. (+995) 422 22 40 46. Open 10:00 - 19:00.

SCHwAzKopFQC-3, Gorgiladze 25, tel. (+995) 422 27 04 55. Open 10:00 - 20:00.

billiArdsBAtuMI BoulevARDThere are 4 billiard and 4 ping pong tables available from the morning until late hours right on the seaside park al-leys. Located behind Veteran’s Club. 1 hour for both billiard and ping pong costs 6 Lari.QD-1, Old Boulevard.


Shopping

booksBooKS IN BAtuMINewly open bookstore, offers big selection of Georgian books and several dozen english ones. Coffee and tea can be served on the outside terrace. You can also rent book and read it there. Good selection of postcard available.QB-2, Abashidze Av. 60, tel. (+995) 422 22 84 44. A

food & drinksThere are dozens of small food shops around Batumi. In each you’ll find fruits, vegetables, alcohol, drinks, and al-most everything you might need. But here’s a list of more or less big supermarkets in the city.

GeoRGItAQB-2, Abashidze Av. (next to 6 May Park). Open 24hrs. A

GooDwIllQE-4, Chavchavadze 3. Open 24hrs. A

populIQD-4, Baratashvili 25, tel. (+995) 422 43 11 22. Open 24 hrs. A

jewellerY & AccessorYThere is a number of jewellery shops around K. Gamsakhur-dia street, most of them are tax free. But here is the one, unique, we highly advise you to visit if you are interesting in jewellery.

zARApxANAThis company has also 7 shops in Tbilisi and produces unique jewellery with Georgian history flavour.QC-2, Rustaveli Av. 35, tel. (+995) 599 22 97 60, www.zarapxana.ge. Open 11:00 - 20:00. A

souvenirsThere are a few items that are distinctly Georgian. Tradition-al drinking horns often tipped with silver or metal called Kantsi, hand made knives, large fluffy wool hats called Pa-pakhi, Teka, felt textile goods, and of course Georgian wine. In addition, antiques and bric-a-brac are often relatively cheap and interesting.

GeoRGIA HouSeEssential stop next to Piazza Square if you have some sou-venir shopping plans. A wide range of traditional Georgian souvenirs, as well as some wine in beautiful packages. QE-3, Gorgasali. Open 10:00 - 20:00. A

sPort & outdoorelIte SpoRtSThere is everything you might need for sports in this small shop, from backpack to swimming suite or swim-ming googles.QE-3, Z. Gamsakhurdia 16B. Open 10:00 - 20:00. A

wine shoPsKINDzMARAulI MARANIAll wines here are produced by Kindzmarauli Marani win-ery from Kakhetia region, presented in 22 types of bottled wine. There are also 4 types of draft wine - Rkatsiteli, Mts-vane, Saperavi and Kindzmarauli from 4Lari to 9Lari per litre. Nice sets of wine in wooden package are good for presents.QC-2, Abashidze Av. 45, tel. (+995) 599 92 09 96. Open 10:30 - 21:00. A

olD wINe HouSe v.DANelIA & Co.The history of the shop might be traced back to 1907. Daniela’s - the owner - family was running a wine store on the very same place before the soviets confiscated it. Al wine presented here is made from Kakhetian wine yards in Eastern Georgia with a traditional technology of Danelia’s family. Both bottled and draft wines are available.QE-4, Z. Gamsakhurdia 43, tel. (+995) 422 27 38 25. Open 10:00 - 21:00.

wINARy KHAReBAProbably the best wine shop in Batumi, Winery Khareba is located in beautifully designed building. There is a small wine shop upstairs, and an unexpectedly huge wine aging cellar downstairs. There are 30 types of bottled wine avail-able, including the latest Mondial award winners: Saperavi Premium 2010 (Grand Gold Medal) and Rkatsiteli 2012 (Sil-ver Medal). They also sell two types of the wine by litter – a mix of Rkatsiteli and Mtsvanefor 3.50Lari and Kindzmarauli for 7Lari. Each wine can be tasted. A great place to buy wine but also perfect to meet friends and share a Georgian wine experience.QGamsakhurdia/Melashvili 28/30, tel. (+995) 422 27 00 27. Open 10:00 - 20:00. PAS


Maps

Sea Port

Surf Hostel

Irise

Cape Town

Bremen

Maspindzelo

Mimino

Old Ship

Samikitno Machakhela

Bereg

O. Galogre

Piazza Marco Polo

La Brioche

Venezia

Winter Garden

Intourist Palace Radisson Blu Batumi

President Plaza

Munich

Neocca

Tserodena

Veronica

SheratonBatumi

Monte Carlo

Clouds

Arhavi

KozachokBrighton Cafe Rennes

Fanfan

La Terrasse

Literaturuli

Press CafePrivet iz Batuma

R. PetriashviliArt Cafe

Golden Palace

Batumi World PalaceLoft

Piazza Inn Piazza Four Colours

Divan Suites

Divan Pub

Pier Batumi

Batumi Party House

A B C D E F

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© Map provided by Ajara Tourism O�ce© Batumi In Your Pocket, 2014


Maps

Sea Port

Surf Hostel

Irise

Cape Town

Bremen

Maspindzelo

Mimino

Old Ship

Samikitno Machakhela

Bereg

O. Galogre

Piazza Marco Polo

La Brioche

Venezia

Winter Garden

Intourist Palace Radisson Blu Batumi

President Plaza

Munich

Neocca

Tserodena

Veronica

SheratonBatumi

Monte Carlo

Clouds

Arhavi

KozachokBrighton Cafe Rennes

Fanfan

La Terrasse

Literaturuli

Press CafePrivet iz Batuma

R. PetriashviliArt Cafe

Golden Palace

Batumi World PalaceLoft

Piazza Inn Piazza Four Colours

Divan Suites

Divan Pub

Pier Batumi

Batumi Party House

A B C D E F

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© Map provided by Ajara Tourism O�ce© Batumi In Your Pocket, 2014


Maps

San Remo

Up & Down

TowerAjarian House

Grand Grill

Ukrainochka

Era Palace

G H I J

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NEW BOULEVARDscale 1:15 000

26 Maisi B-1/4Abashidze Av. A/E-2Akhmeteli D-2Akhvlediani B/C-3Baratashvili D-3/4Charmikli I-1/2Chavchavadze A/E-4,J-3Dumbadze D-2Eliava E-3Eurpoe Sq D-2Gamsakhurdia E-2/4Gamsakhurdia D-2/4

Gogebashvili E-2/4Gorgasali A/E-3, I/J-2Gorgiladze A/D-3, I/J-2Griboedov I-2/3, J-3H. Abashidze A-3/4I. Abashidze D-3Javakhishvili I-1/3Kakhiani C/D-2Kazbegi B-3/4Khimshiasvili A-3/4Khimshiasvili J-2/3Khinkadze I/J-2

Khulo E-3/4Kldiashvili B/C-2Komakhidze D/E-4Kostava D/E-3Kutaisi E-3/4Lermontov J-2/3Luka Astiani C-2/4Marjanashvili C-3Melashvili D/E-3Melikishvili B-1/4Metaksa A-3/4Ninoshvili B/C-1, C/D-2

Noe Zhordana D/E-3Old Boulevard A/E-1Paliashvili A/B-3Parnavaz Mepe A/E-3, J-2Pirosmani H-2/3, I-2Rustaveli Av. A/E-2, I/J-1Sheikhi H-2/3Sherif Khimshiashvili G/I-2Tavdadebuli C-2/4 Tbilisi Sq. D-4Vazha Pshavela C-2/4Zubalashvili B/E-4

Adjarabet 20Adjara Tour 23African Queen 25Ajarian House 16Aksoy Art Galler 11Ali & Nino 21Alphabet Tower 21Aqua Park 22Aquarium 22Arhavi 18Armenian Apostolic Church 23Art-Boulevard 20A-Salon 25Astronomic Clock 21Aversi 25Batumi Boulevard 25Batumi Boulevard (Seaside Park) 22Batumi Catholic Church 23Batumi City Centre 6Batumi International Airport 5Batumi Lighthouse 21Batumi Opera and Ballet Centre 11Batumi State Drama Theatre 11Batumi Tennis Club 25Batumi World Palace 14Beeline 9Bereg Café 16Black Buddha 20Books in Batumi 24Botanical Garden 22Bremen 16Brighton 14

Bus Station 5Café Rennes 19Calypso Travel 23Cars4rent 5Chacha Tower 21Circus 11Clouds 18Colonnades 21Dancing Fountains 21Daraberi 16DHL 9Dolphinarium 22D’Vine 15Elite Sports 24Era Palace 14Espresso Sinatra Bar 20Europe Square 21Fan Fan 19Fish Market 18Gela Rent a Car 5Geocell 9Georgia House 24Georgita 24Goodwill 24GPC 25Grand Grill 18Grand Palace Intourist 20Hertz 5Intourist Palace 13Iveria Batumi 20Kemal Turmanidze 11Kindzmarauli Marani 24

Kozachok 18Kutaisi International Airport 5La Brioche 19La Terrasse 19Literaturili 19Magti 9Makhinjauri Train Station 5Marco Polo 18Marina Tourism Centre 25Masmidzelo 16Mimino 16Monte Carlo Apart Hotel 14Münich 17Neocca 17New Bus Station 5O. Galogre 14Old Ship 16Old Wine House 25Ortajame 23Panoramic Wheel 21Peace 20Piazza Boutique Hotel 14Piazza Square 22Piramida 25PitaBoom 19Populi 24Postal Service Centre 9President Plaza 14Press Café 19Privet iz Batuma 19PSP 25Puppet Theatre 11

Quiet Woman Pub 20Radisson Blu Batumi 13Rendez-Vous Lounge 20Rusudan Petviashvili Art Gallery & Café 11, 19Samikitno Machakhela 17San Remo 17Schwazkopf 25Sheraton Batumi 13, 25Sixt 5St Barbara’s Church 23St Nickolas Church 23Synagogue 23Taxi-2 5TBC Gallery 11The Virgin Nativity Cathedral 23TNT 9Tower Restaurant & Brewery 17Tserodena 17Ukrainochka 18Up & Down 17UPS 9Vapianno 20Venezia 18Veronica 17Vinyl 20Why Not? Batumi 15Winary Khareba 24Winter Garden 17Wonderland 23Zarapxana 24Zoo Corner 22


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