Where.ge sat down with Niels Scott, the UN Resident Coordinator, UNDP Resident Representative and UNFPA Representative in Georgia, to find out his favorite spots around the country. Check out what he told us below.
"In Georgia, it’s interesting to see the difference in the cuisine from one region to another, the way of life and style of architecture. Georgians are diverse, I’ve been familiar with Georgia since the 90s and much has changed: there's been rapid development and most countries on this path are at risk of losing their culture and traditions, but in Georgia, it is still great!"
STEPANSMINDA
I remember going there way back in the 90s: we just parked our car and started walking up in the mountains with our dog. When we were walking up onto the ridge, a huge golden eagle started to circle above us. Georgia’s famous for its amazing natural wonders. What really attracted me about this area was the huge mountains, beautiful streams and rivers coming down.
SVANETI: USHGULI & MESTIA
I visited Svaneti a year-and-a-half ago. What was really fascinating about this place was that walking from one village to another felt time neutral. If there weren’t a few modern things catching your eye along the way, like parachutes, there’s no way you’d feel you were in the 21st century. The churches are fantastic over there, with exceptionally interesting and simple ornaments. I love the museum in Mestia: it offered great insight into the culture and history of the area with its exhibits and ancient findings from excavations.
SAMTSKHE-JAVAKHETI
I love it for its sweeping plains and hills. It’s quiet and you get to really feel the spirit of the place; amazing landscapes that have not changed in 2000 years.
KAKHETI, SIGHNAGHI
We often have guests visiting from different countries and we always like to take them to Sighnaghi. They always say it reminds them of Tuscany. It’s a beautifully restored place with an amazing driving route and views over the valley.
SAMEGRELO, ZUGDIDI
As a part of my job, I go to Abkhazia very often and on the way to western Georgia, I always like to have some Elarji in Zugdidi. My favorite spot for this great Georgian dish is Mia Dia.
Main photo by Tony Hanmer