Most people travel to Georgia to enjoy the scenic mountain views of Gudauri or look for the Instagrammable spots in Tbilisi. But I found something better than these: a spiritual awakening. Some would say it was a religious experience, but for me, it only strengthened my faith in God.
I landed in Tbilisi, Georgia, a day shy of Easter Sunday and found it to be the best trip I’ve ever had. You don’t have to be religious to appreciate Georgia’s culture and beauty, but it’ll leave a mark on you, making you want to return for more! Come along with me as I share with you how a country located at the intersection of Europe and Asia convinced me that God is real and awesome.
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1. The breathtaking greenery and nature in Georgia
The Republic of Georgia is home to gorgeous natural wonders and greenery that’ll overjoyed every nature lover or cottagecore heart! Everywhere you go, whether you’re enjoying the view from your hotel, you’ll see the beautiful mountains’ views. The best part is visiting Georgia during spring since you’ll see flowers everywhere!
Our tour guide informed us that it is illegal to cut any trees, which shows that Georgians place a high value on conserving their natural habitat. During my trip to Georgia, I couldn’t help but take many pictures of flowers or random trees. You have to visit Rike Park since it’s a recreational park with tons of trees and flowers. You’ll also see cherry blossoms there! The long road trip will be worth it since you’ll see lots of flora and fauna. You must stop by the Aragvi River if you plan to visit the Gudauri ski resort since you’ll be amazed how two rivers called the Black and White Aragvi don’t blend together. You’ll see how the two colors differentiate and think God is amazing! Another must-visit place that will make you appreciate natural wonders is the Gudauri ski resort. The road to the top of the mountain may be scary, but you’ll be in awe seeing the pure white snow, thinking, is this real? In my case, on the road to the top, I couldn’t help but be overwhelmed and feel grateful to God especially when I remembered the creation story in Genesis.
2. The numerous churches in and out of the city
It’s impossible not to be inspired by how strong Georgians’ faith is. You’ll see it in bold from the airport itself. Their flag has five red crosses on it, which represents their Christian faith and how its values are deeply ingrained in their culture and lifestyle. Whether you’re Christian or not, one tourist attraction is mostly cathedrals, churches, or old monasteries. As a Bible-believing Christian, I took it as an opportunity to explore and learn about the Orthodox traditions. You must visit the Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi since it’s one of the best places to reflect, bask in the mountain views, relish a long walk with your friends, and take pictures of its highly intricate architecture.
The best time to visit is in the afternoon since you’ll enjoy taking pictures during the golden hour and seeing the sunset. You’ll also notice that on every hilltop, a cross and churches are planted everywhere; our tour guide says that most of the churches in Georgia are a mix of Orthodox and catholic. Gelati should be part of your travel guide since you’ll appreciate its medieval architecture. It was one of the first monasteries in Georgia, founded by King David IV of Georgia.
3. The hospitality of Georgians
Georgians are hospitable, and it will remind you of how God wanted his faithful followers to serve people and love one another as we love him! Most of the people I encountered in Georgia were friendly, from the cashier in the grocery store, since we couldn’t speak Georgia, to the random guy helping me get a cup of hot chocolate from a vending machine. My stay in Georgia is pleasant since it’s filled with warmth, countless stories, and laughter! You must try bed and breakfasts in Georgia since homemade meals and their friendliness will make it hard to leave!
4. The tourist attractions
Georgia’s tourist attractions revolve around nature or religion, such as the Ananuri Fortress Complex, National Botanical Garden, Jvari Monastery, Mother of Georgia, and more! For example, the Chronicles of Georgia is one of my favorites on my trip! The 16 pillars tells the story of the history of Georgia and the life of Jesus Christ. You will be amazed by its architecture, and it is one of the best places to reflect. Since it’s located on Keeni Hill and it’s near the Tbilisi Sea, it’s the best of both worlds!
When I visited the Chronicles of Georgia, it moved me since indeed a picture paints a thousand words, I might not understand the language inscribed on every sculpture, but each story and parable reminded me of God’s sovereignty and sacrifice at the cross for people of all nations, tongue, and tribe can receive salvation. As a creative, I’m inspired by the passion of the monument’s sculptor, Zurab Tsereteli, since it reminded me the works of our hands are also a form of worship; in all that we do, we must do it for the glory of God!
Your trip to Georgia is only complete with visiting the wineries in Kakheti. The Republic of Georgia has internationally acclaimed wines in addition to those from France and Spain! You must try Mukuzani Dry red wine, one of their best produced from Saperavi. During the wine tasting, I remembered the story of the wedding at Cana when Jesus turned water into wine.
During our wine tour, we visited a gorgeous winery in Kakheti, which had charming wine shops, cobblestone floors, greenery, and many vines. Upon seeing the vines, I remembered the story when Jesus was teaching his disciples about the vine and the branches; he said, as documented in John 15:1-4 “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.”
Final thoughts:
This article will inspire you if you haven’t visited the Republic of Georgia yet! I arrived in Tbilisi burnt out and needed a vacation, so I left feeling refreshed and more spiritually connected to God. You will get more than what you came for. Be prepared for numerous walks, and bring a tissue since you might shed a tear or two from being moved, just like I did. Georgia is a haven for Jesus’ followers who want to reflect, bask in God’s creation, and rest their weary hearts and minds. I will return to Georgia for more adventures and meaningful conversations with the locals.