You can come to Georgia at any time - the openness of Georgians and their friendly attitude towards tourists do not depend on the season or the weather. The table is always laid here and the doors are open for a person with an open heart and good thoughts. No political and geographical misunderstandings between the countries could change the main tradition of Georgia - exceptional hospitality.
Messengers of God
This is what an old Georgian proverb calls guests. For those who come to the house, they do not regret the best, they are escorted to a place of honor and entertained with conversations until the table is laid. The cradle of winemaking, Georgia is famous for its toasts, which will certainly be pronounced during the feast. One of the well-known traditions of Georgia is the choice of a toastmaster who leads a table conversation in the right direction. He will make healthy speeches and turn even ordinary gatherings into a real holiday.
With many of the best wines on the tables, Georgians rarely drink spirits, limiting themselves to a couple of glasses. But here you can drink an infinite amount of wine, offering the guest more and more new varieties. Don't be afraid to skip a full glass or skip another toast. It is enough just to raise the wine in greeting and sip slightly.
Bride kidnapping
Among the most ancient traditions of Georgia, bride kidnapping occupies a special place. Today this beautiful ceremony is carried out at the mutual desire of the young and the couple is carefully preparing for the abduction. By the way, modern newlyweds prefer to fulfill this tradition in the event that they are not planning a magnificent wedding. The kidnapping assumes that the wedding will be modest and only the closest ones will take part in it. So the newlyweds have the opportunity to go on a honeymoon trip or save money for a lavish feast and spend it in a couple of years.
Useful little things
- Georgia has adopted laws on maintaining cleanliness on the streets, violation of which is punishable by rather impressive fines. You can smoke almost everywhere, but throwing out cigarette butts is highly undesirable - many police officers carefully monitor the order in cities.
- Traditions of Georgia regarding hospitality do not always apply to drivers in big cities. Before crossing the carriageway, even at a pedestrian crossing, you should carefully look around.
- Once you are at a traditional Georgian feast, you should not interrupt your elders or the toastmaster. Having heard "alaverdi" in the address to yourself during a table speech, be prepared to say reciprocal wishes.
