ON THE WAY TO THE GEORGIA TCT
EXPLORING TBILISI
I flew from Baku, Azerbaijan to Tbilisi, Georgia so I would have time to check out this capital city before the second trek of this adventure. I made a reservation at Fabrika, a re-purposed abandoned sewing factory that is now a huge hostel with shops, cafes and co-working space located in an area called the Left Bank (of the Mtkvari River). I arrived to find a popular place with a cool vibe and a creative re-design!
AROUND TOWN ON THE RIGHT BANK
Tbilisi has a much less polished, but much more creative, vibe than Baku. For example, there is no graffiti in Baku and lots of creative wall art in Tbilisi. The Left Bank area has many thrift stores, small shops and neighborhood gardens (photos 1-9). From there it’s a short walk over to the Dry Bridge Flea Market and to the Right Bank where there are museums, high end shops, street performers at metro stations, more restaurants and tourist attractions like the Liberty Square with the statue of St. George and the Leaning Tower of Georgia.
While walking around Tbilisi, I noticed this interesting looking building and wandered in. Wow, was I blown away! I had entered a hotel with an urban garden and rooms where grinding flour, processing milk into yogurt, making oil, making chocolate from cacao and even making nut butters was being showcased. There is an open kitchen and juice bar and I was happy to get a green drink to take upstairs while viewing a photographic exhibit! Outdoor areas, meeting areas and work away office space are all in addition to the hotel rooms. Once a publishing house, this building was re-purposed by the same group that did the Fabrika hostel. Tours are available!
MARKETS
There is a huge open air market as well as many small neighborhood markets in Tbilisi. Lots of fresh fruit, vegetables, cheese, eggs, tea, baked goods and sweets made on a string from fruits and nuts called Tklapi were offered.
SHAVI LOMI
Shavi Lomi is an excellent local restaurant on the east bank that has a very chill outdoor garden area. A sign posted on the door reflects the sentiment of many Georgians. We also encountered expressions of resentment over two Georgian territories now occupied by Russia.
Both the East Bank and West Bank reflect a vibrant city. They each offer a rich cultural experience!
And now, back to the trail…