"Unrecommended for tourists" in Georgia - unwritten rules

Georgia is one of the most hospitable countries. Every year, a large number of tourists come here and leave with pleasant impressions of this beautiful country. However, every country has its own rules and cultural peculiarities. By violating or disregarding the special rules of etiquette, you may offend or even upset the friendly locals.

Therefore, it is very important to understand what not to do when you arrive in a foreign country. In this article, we will provide important advice for tourists.

Political discussions and debates

In many countries, it is very unpleasant and sometimes even dangerous to discuss political topics. Each nation has its own way of thinking, traditions, beliefs, and mentality. That's why attitudes, worldviews, and political views differ in every country, and Georgia is no exception.

It is better not to engage in political discussions. Usually, Georgians themselves try to change the subject to avoid continuing conflicts. However, if someone is overly persistent, any discussion can escalate into a heated argument. Do you still want to talk to Georgians about politics? Then do it through questions. Ask them about their views on specific processes or figures, but do not try to impose your opinion or engage in debates. This rule applies everywhere and for all countries.

Avoid discussing Abkhazia

This topic is closely related to politics, but it is better to separate it into a distinct point. Discussing and bringing up territorial issues is strictly prohibited. It is known that many Georgians consider Abkhazia to be part of their country, so it is very risky to deny this fact.

You could trigger a serious conflict. Avoid mentioning wars or border divisions. It is a highly sensitive issue.

Never blame the local population

And once again, a near-political topic. There are so many intricacies in Georgian politics. But which nation would like it if visitors accused them of something? None. The Georgian people are no exception. The reason for closing the borders with Georgia is known to everyone, of course.

The incident with Pozner is well known to many. Never discuss it and do not accuse locals of being inhospitable. If you want to be treated with respect, treat the people the same way and do not offend them.

Do not attempt to interact with the Roma (Gypsy) people

In the most crowded places in Georgia, specifically in the popular tourist spots of Tbilisi, you can often come across Roma people.

They wander around, begging for alms, and may offer to tell your fortune. However, this issue exists in many countries, but not all tourists are aware that it is absolutely forbidden to approach them, to reach for your wallet in their presence, or to display any other valuable belongings. Like in many countries, Roma people have the ability to discreetly take something from you or create the impression that they are taking something, for example, your money.\

Behave modestly in restaurants, do not get upset

This advice may seem banal, but many people still forget about it. Do not think that just because you came here to relax, everything will be done quickly for you. Apart from you, a huge number of other people come here as well. However, even with a large or small number of people in the establishment, do not rush the waiters.

Even in the most upscale, luxurious restaurants in the capital, the waiters work at a leisurely pace. It is also a cultural characteristic. Just accept it if the establishment fully satisfies you and you do not want to ruin your mood.

Respect personal space

In the small courtyards of Tbilisi, you can take beautiful and aesthetically pleasing photos for your social media to share with your friends and loved ones. However, maintain decorum and do not go up to the balconies of residential buildings, as it is an invasion of private property and personal space.

Never ask for slippers

Such a common request, but Georgians really dislike it. The thing is, local residents don't take off their shoes at home. Regardless of the season, even in winter, Georgians walk around the house wearing boots. It's better either not to take off your shoes at the entrance at all or to stay in your socks, but never ask for slippers under any circumstances.

No, you won't provoke anger, but you will definitely confuse the hosts, and that's something we certainly don't want. Yes, we may not understand it, but it all comes down to differences in mentality, and we just have to accept it.

Don't interrupt the tamada

Interrupting someone is generally not a good habit, but never even think about interrupting the tamada. Such a person is present at any festive gathering, and interrupting them is the epitome of disrespect for the Georgian people, who hold the tamada in such high regard.

Always try to finish everything

If you find yourself in a situation where you are treated to something or invited to a feast, try to eat everything that is offered to you. Show politeness. Local residents are very hospitable, so they want to feed each of their guests to their heart's content.

If you don't finish something, the hosts may think that you didn't like the food. It's better to take less initially than to leave food unfinished and disappoint the hosts.

Don't compare Georgia with other countries

Never speak of Georgia in a way that diminishes it compared to other countries. Don't tell Georgians that it's easier and better to live in Russia.

Don't say that vacationing at Russian resorts is more comfortable. It's not advisable to compare not only with Russia but also with other countries. It has already been mentioned that everyone in Georgia is very friendly, so they always want to make sure that everyone is happy. When you say that other countries are better, you hurt the local population.

As you can see for yourself, all the advice comes down to basic politeness. There is still a lot of negative information about Georgia on the internet.

But don't believe everything. Georgians won't look at you sideways if you want to eat khinkali with a fork or if you refuse to drink chacha. It's a matter of personal taste, and they understand that. No one will harm you here.