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Georgia, one of the republics in the Transcaucasian region is all set to resume domestic travel by June 15. With easing lockdown restrictions, the country also plans to reopen its borders for foreign tourists starting July 1. By Upasana Singh
Home to Caucasus Mountain villages and Black Sea beaches, Georgia plans to create a safe corridor on land borders for tourists from neighbouring countries. Whilst presenting a tourism recovery and anti-crisis plan, Prime Minister Giorgi Gakharia announced that Georgia will hold bilateral negotiations with other countries in the region that are vital for its tourism sector.
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The announcement comes just days after the capital, Tbilisi allowed shops to reopen as part of a gradual easing of Coronavirus lockdown restrictions. A lockdown that was imposed in the Southeast city of Rustavi was also lifted last week.
Georgia plans to reopen for foreign tourists from July 1, with domestic travel resuming from June 15. Economy Minister Natia Turnava believes that Georgia should promote itself as a safe destination to attract tourists. As reported by Emerging Europe, she said, “Before, the world knew us as a country for our ancient traditions of hospitality. Now the world will recognise us as a safe destination.” With this strategy, the country has come up with a new slogan — “Georgia: The Safe Destination.”
Beginning with the Batumi and the Ajara region, the country will create several Green Zones to kickstart tourism. Chairman of the regional government, Tornike Rijwadze ensured that beaches will be monitored and social distancing rules will be strictly followed. For the entire country, an action plan will be developed based on providing the best international experience. This will include training of guides to improve quality and introduce safety rules in the tourism industry post-COVID-19.
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Last year, almost 9.4 million tourists visited Georgia. Famed for its ancient culture, rich history, and diverse architecture, some of the go-to tourist spots in the country include Vardzia, a cave monastery dating to the 12th century, the ancient wine-growing region of Kakheti, and the cobblestone streets of Tbilisi’s old towns.
As flights will gradually resume operations, we hope that our travel plans to this Caucasian country will soon be fulfilled.
Related: #SomeGoodNews: Iceland Is All Set To Welcome Tourists June Onwards
