Adjara, Georgia
Mtirala National Park, Kintrishi Protected Areas, and Kobuleti Protected Areas are important biodiversity zones. When visiting, stick to marked trails, do not disturb wildlife, and follow park rules to support conservation.
Waste management improves in Batumi, but recycling facilities are still developing. Reduce your waste, especially single-use plastics. Carry a reusable water bottle and decline plastic bags. Dispose of trash in designated bins.
Consider offsetting flight carbon emissions. For local transport, prioritize public buses, marshrutkas, walking, or cycling over private cars when possible, reducing your carbon footprint during your stay.
Your actions as a traveler matter for local ecosystems.
Be mindful of water usage in hotels and guesthouses, especially since water scarcity can occur in some rural areas during dry spells. Support businesses that prioritize local sourcing and sustainable practices.
A small but growing number of accommodations and tour operators adopt eco-friendly practices (e.g., energy efficiency, waste reduction, local sourcing). Inquire about their practices before booking.
Observe wildlife from a distance and never feed wild animals. Protect local ecosystems by staying on designated paths.
If you see local clean-up initiatives, consider joining or supporting them. Every little bit counts for environmental care.
Always carry out everything you carry in. Dispose of waste properly, and minimize your environmental footprint by avoiding single-use items.
Respectful interaction with Georgian culture deepens your travel experience.
Support local crafts and traditions by purchasing authentic, locally made products directly from artisans or at traditional markets. This helps traditional skills continue and brings income to local communities. Learn about and appreciate Georgian polyphonic singing, traditional dance, and unique architecture.
Always dress modestly when visiting religious sites (churches, monasteries, mosques), ensuring shoulders and knees are covered for both men and women, and heads are covered for women in Orthodox churches. Ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, especially in rural areas, traditional settings, or religious contexts. Learning a few basic Georgian phrases (see Section 11.1) is greatly appreciated by locals. If offered food or drink, accepting, even a small amount, is polite.
Be mindful of people's privacy. Avoid photographing children without explicit parental permission. Do not photograph military installations, government buildings, or sensitive areas. Always look for signs indicating photography restrictions, especially in museums and religious sites.
Enter quietly and respectfully. Observe local customs, like appropriate dress and removing hats. Refrain from loud conversations or disruptive behavior. If a service is underway, observe from the back or a designated area to avoid disturbing worshippers. Silence your mobile phone before entering.
Georgians are famously hospitable. Accepting offers of food and drink is customary.
Toasting is a ritual at feasts; participate by raising your glass and listening to the toastmaster.
Meals are communal events; sharing dishes is the norm. Enjoy the variety of flavors.
Engaging with Georgian culture openly and respectfully generally results in a warm welcome and memorable interactions.
Supporting the local economy benefits Batumi's communities.
Choose to stay in local guesthouses when venturing into rural Adjara for direct community support.
Eat at small family-run restaurants for authentic experiences and direct economic contribution.
Purchase goods directly from farmers or artisans. This helps local skills continue and provides income.
Be aware of any forms of exploitation. Avoid encouraging child begging by giving money directly.
Ensure any animal interactions (e.g., at parks or small zoos) are ethical and humane. Avoid activities that involve animal cruelty.
If you wish to donate, do so through established and registered local charities or NGOs. This sends your contribution effectively.
