Continuing My Journey Through Georgia

After landing in Poti, Georgia, I spent three nights in the small port city, taking time to walk around and learn about its charm. This was the start of my incredible 3 ½ years living in Georgia. From Poti, I traveled to Batumi, where I had arranged to view a studio apartment near the Black Sea. After moving in, I celebrated by sitting at an outdoor restaurant with a glass of local red wine—Georgia, after all, is home to the world’s longest history of winemaking. I savored the wine alongside some mixed olives while soaking in the new surroundings.

As I sat there, an elderly man, about 70, walked by with a little girl who looked to be around four. To my surprise, the girl stopped, stared at me, and started speaking in Georgian. I had no idea what she was saying, but her enthusiasm and confidence were captivating. I glanced at the man, who simply shrugged with a faint smile, and we both let the girl continue. After a few moments, she walked over, gave me a big hug, and kept talking. Though I couldn’t understand her words, the warmth of that moment stayed with me long after they left. It reminded me of another time in my life when a similar, unexpected exchange filled me with contentment and wonder.

During my time in Georgia, I made trips to Tbilisi, the vibrant capital, with its mix of historic charm and modern energy. I explored the winding streets of the Old Town, the stunning Holy Trinity Cathedral, and enjoyed evenings at cozy cafes. I also visited Kutaisi, a city steeped in history, where the grandeur of the Bagrati Cathedral and the mystical Prometheus Cave left me in awe. Each place offered its own unique slice of Georgia’s rich culture, making my journey through this beautiful country unforgettable.

Looking back, those early days in Poti and Batumi set the tone for the many incredible adventures and connections I would experience during my years in Georgia. It was a time of discovery, wonder, and countless moments of joy that I will carry with me forever.