Practical Information

Yes, Georgia is one of the safest destinations in the world and especially in the Caucasus. Tbilisi is very safe day and night, even in less central neighborhoods. Crime against tourists is practically non-existent. Georgians have a historic reputation for hospitality toward foreigners, and this reputation is 100% true. In 20 years Georgia has significantly improved safety. Like any big city, use common sense: don't display valuable objects, avoid dark alleyways at 3am, keep documents in a safe place. Police are professional, friendly with tourists, and speak English. Solo female travelers in Georgia feel safe and comfortable. Crime against tourists is lower than in many European cities. In summary: Georgia is significantly safer than the global and European average.

English is spoken by younger people (under 40) in Tbilisi and very touristy areas. However, in remote villages and with older people English is limited or non-existent. The previous generation primarily speaks Russian as a second language. The Georgian alphabet is unique and dissimilar to Latin or Cyrillic, so even reading signs can be difficult. Our guides speak English fluently, which completely eliminates the language barrier on all our tours. Tip: download an offline translation app (Google Translate works offline), carry basic Georgian phrases on paper. Georgians greatly appreciate the effort to speak their language and usually smile widely if you try phrases like "thank you" (madloba) or "hello" with Georgian accent.

Single emergency number: 112 (like in UK) for police, ambulance, fire. The operator usually speaks English or Russian. British Embassy in Tbilisi: +995 (32) 2 748 103, located at 51 Krtsanisi Street. US Embassy in Tbilisi: +995 (32) 2 98 99 67, located at 108 Metekhi Street (Ortabatumi). For non-serious medical issues, most hotels can recommend clinics. International travel insurance works in Georgia. Medical care is decent quality in Tbilisi (private hospitals are very good), but in small villages it's basic. Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is recommended. Pharmacies ("apoteka") are everywhere and sell medications without prescription for minor issues.

Georgia is a very modern country where dress codes are liberal. In churches (culturally important places) it's respectful to: remove caps/hats, women often cover shoulders (a light wrap or jacket), men without caps. In some remote churches you remove shoes (there will be a sign), though this is rare in main tourist churches. Women can wear pants in churches (unlike more conservative cultures). Georgians appreciate the effort of respecting their culture: if you cover in a church even symbolically, they'll notice and value it. In restaurants and public spaces no dress restrictions. Drinking alcohol is very normal in Georgia (famous for wine). Homosexuality is legal though socially conservative in some circles (but Tbilisi is progressive). In summary: be respectful in churches, everything else is very flexible.