Tbilisi has earned its place at the top of this year’s Experts’ Choice ‘Best Emerging Destination’ award.
The decision was made based on recommendations from leading travel media companies, and also takes into account the cities placement in the “best of 2018” lists, including the amount and quality of hotels, restaurants and attraction reviews.
Experts from National Geographic, The Guardian and Rough Guides all concur that it is time the world takes notice of Georgia’s capital.
The announcement article says “the city, which has been influenced by countless cultures and been part of many empires, remains intrinsically itself while striving to embrace change.”
The emerging art scene in the city is also mentioned in the article, saying “a burgeoning arts scene is breathing new life into Old Tbilisi. Project ArtBeat, a gallery whose focus is on emerging and mid-career artists from Georgia and around the world, established a permanent presence in the neighborhood of narrow streets and buildings known for their shambolic charm.”
It also recommends a visit to cultural center and writers' residence, the Writer’s House, and Fabrika Hostel, an "affordable 98-room property in a converted textile factory, particularly liked by The Guardian for its “huge courtyard surrounded by independent bars and shops.”
"Across the river and in another category altogether is the gorgeous Rooms Hotel," the article reads, which Lonely Planet calls “by far Tbilisi’s most stylish hotel.” The 137-room converted Soviet-era publishing house boasts a number of "unique suites and interiors that weave together a contemporary sensibility with a vintage Georgian aesthetic."
Tripexpert notes that in 2017, Vice had in mind to ask whether Tbilisi's favorite Bassiani, an industrial chic club built under a soccer stadium, might be the new Berghain. "There’s increasing openness to the LGBTQ community and venues like Bassiani are destinations for travels of diverse identities."
The article also mentions the 24-hour sulfur baths, Georgia's ancient wine culture, and its cuisine, going on to highlight "the best restaurant in town: Shavi Lomi, the beloved creation of chef Meriko Gubeladze," serving up "unique Georgian fusion in a cozy atmosphere."
So, it looks like Georgia’s ever-growing tourism numbers will see a further boom in the near future. Make sure you get in on it!
See the full TripExpert article here
By Tom Day