Experience in Tbilisi, Georgia by Jessica

What is it like to live in Tbilisi? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Tbilisi is very peaceful.There is low crime rate and cheap transport. Accomodation is a bit expensive for foreigners. Most Georgians don't understand English language so you would need to know a little of Georgian language to live comfortably here.

What is the student lifestyle like in Tbilisi?

The academic structure is good and student friendly. The teachers are hardworking, warm and cordial. Also, every student is entitled to a student card which is used for subsidized transport rates round the city.

How much does it cost to live in Tbilisi?

It costs an average of 250 dollars a month. It could be cheaper if you share an apartment or room with friends. That way, you share the costs. 

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Tbilisi? Is there any advice you can give?

It is very easy to find accomodation. There are many online sites that advertise accomodation all day long. An example of such site is myhome.ge

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Most Georgian foods have cheese in it. If you are a cheese lover, you would love them. The most common of them is katchapuri, which is baked flour with cheese. The favourite meal for most foreigners is Kinkali which is made of boiled flour and meat or potatoes. I particularly love Lobiani. (Lobiani is baked flour with mashed beans in it. That is, like a beans pie).It's so delicious, i must say.  Most of Georgian cooked foods are salty though. Georgians love salt!

What places would you recommend visiting in Tbilisi?

Mtasminda park. it is highly mountaneous. The highest point in Tbilisi. You get to see the whole of Tbilisi in a landscape view. I would also recommend Botanical garden and the Zoo. I would also suggest you travel to Paveteus cave. It is an ancient cave that has numerous colours in it, a sight to behold and of course, a tourist attraction. This cafe is 4hrs drive away from Tbilisi.

Is it good to eat out in Tbilisi? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

I recently went to a Georgian restaurant.My Georgian friend wanted me to have a taste of their foods. Mmmm. I ate Kinkali and Katchapuri. I wouldn't say i liked them much though but they are foods one can eat, especially if you are a cheese lover and a lover of boiled meat.  My favourite spots are KFC, McDonald's and Wendys. You could go to kinkali house, a restaurant intbilisi to have a taste of kinkali. who knows, you might like it. Most people do.

Is the nightlife good in Tbilisi? Where is good to go?

Yes, nightlife is good. You can stay out as long as you want. Most people go clubing but I particularly love going to the cinema. 

What advice would you give future students heading to Tbilisi?

Don't come to Tbilisi expecting to find a good paying job that would take care of your school fees and bills. Most jobs here don't pay well and it is difficult to get one because of the language barrier. Georgians don't speak English.But you can be sure of a peaceful stay here.