Georgia

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Flag of Georgia Georgia
Information
Language: Georgian is the official language. The west of the country speaks Mengrelian or Svan. Russian is universally understood.
Capital: Tbilisi
Population: 4,774,4732
Currency: Lari ( GEL )
Hitchability: Good.png (good)
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<map lat='42.277' lng='43.824' zoom='6' view='3'/>

Georgia is a country in Western Asia, that borders Turkey, Armenia, Azerbaijan and Russia.

Hitching in Georgia is easy! Short waits and very friendly people. Road conditions in some places are quite bad so it can take some time but in most of cases there are renovated roads. Spots are very easy to find, just head in the right direction and you will find a suitable place to stand. Older people rarely speak English, they speak Russian but youngsters are speaking English (in most of cases in big cities; in villages youngsters are speaking only Georgian). And a few phrases in Russian can be handy (or even better in Georgian!).

Getting in

Citizens of EU, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and many other countries don't need visa to enter and stay on the territory of Georgia for 360 days.

When arriving from west, your likely point of entry to the country will be Sarp (Sarpi) border crossing with Turkey on the Black Sea coast. That border crossing has a steady traffic and it's possible to cross the border on foot.

If you are going to Armenia the best option is to cross Sadakhlo border because the most of drivers are crossing this border. There are three border crossings with Armenia, through the towns of Ninotsminda, Dmanisi and Sadakhlo. it's possible to walk over the checkpoint and the border police is nice.

Sleeping

Staying in the homes of local people and enjoying their hospitality is possible practically everywhere except for Tbilisi. Simply knock on any house with a light in the window, and chances are the family inside will be happy to host you.

Pitching a tent is a normal thing for the local people, forbidden only in city centres and near ruins.

As usual in the former Soviet Union, it is possible to rent private rooms from local people. In any city or small town one need only go into a shop or small restaurant and ask if someone has a room. Prices start from around 10 lari, and sometimes tea and even dinner is included.

Food

It's hard to be hungry in Georgia. Easy to find delicious and very cheap food in every city, in small villages you will be often invited by locals.

Climate

Summer can be really hot in Georgia. Temperature is around 35-40°C so you need a lot of water, which isn't problem to find (majority of Georgians use tap water) and security from the sun.

Winter is quite cold and snowy, especially the north part of Georgia.

Using police cars

In Georgia it is possible to "hitch-hike" with police cars. Due to the country's desire to become more European, a major reform of the police was undertaken, affecting also the way the police work and deal with people. You should not be afraid of asking policeman for information or help. Most probably they will help you and even more.

The police provide a special type of service - they can deliver you to the address you are asking - for people who are in a position to be harmed or injured, for example when you are a foreigner and travelling alone in Georgia. They can bring you to the address you name or to a hotel. Keep in mind that you will have to fill out and sign a form. It is recommended to use this service in the evenings and nights.

Cities

Regions