Experience in Tbilisi, Georgia by Winsome Loraine PETER

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

Living in Tbilisi is an interesting experience. It's a developing city which is rather slow paced but one can get almost anything here. The city is in two sections, the old and the new developing section. It is not crowded, has a reasonably good transport system with low crime. I would recommend living in Tbilisi.

What is the student lifestyle like in Tbilisi?

I am not a student so I cannot answer this question. I am a 51 year old English Teacher who has worked in 4 countries over the past 18 years, before coming to Tbilisi.

How much does it cost to live in Tbilisi?

Accommodation is very expensive,depending on where you choose to live and your preferences. But otherwise food and transport are very cheap, including taxis. Other goods and products are generally quite affordable.

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

Yes, accommodation is quite a challenge here - if you choose to live in a newly built apartment block, then the rental can be very expensive which will include rental deposit and agent's fees. Apartments are generally furnished but it's worth arriving here first and then going to look at apartments to check things out and ask questions. Keep in mind, that most apartments are newly renovated on the inside but in very old buildings.

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

The Georgian food is very good and quite appetizing! My favorite dishes are kachapuri, kinkhali and shashlik/kebab.

Please note that the water (out of the tap) is safe to drink.

What places would you recommend visiting in Tbilisi?

I would highly recommend a detailed tour of the Old City. Also a visit to the Sulphur Baths, the Botannical Gardens, Narkala Fortress and the old capital, vineyards. Use the hop-on,hop-off bus to tour around. The churches and museums are worth visiting.

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

Yes absolutely! There are a variety of restaurants and cafes here with the addition of European style bakeries and patisseries. My favorite spots are in the Old City and on Shota Rustaveli Street.

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

I am not sure about this because I am not a nightlife person.

What advice would you give future students heading to Tbilisi?

Come with an excellent camera to take good photos. You can join Tbilisi groups on www.internations.org so you can connect with other expats and the locals.