Travel Blogger Lists Common Mistakes That Can Ruin a Trip to Georgia

Russian travel blogger Alexei Kutovoy has outlined the mistakes tourists most often make in Georgia - missteps that can sour a holiday - sharing his observations on his personal blog on the Zen platform.

First, he reminded readers that since January 1, 2026, every foreigner entering the country must carry medical insurance. The policy has to cover at least $30,000 for hospital treatment and $5,000 for doctor visits. Without it, travelers can be turned back right at the border, and anyone already in the country faces a fine of 300 lari, roughly 9,500 rubles, he noted.

Second, Kutovoy explained that Russian OSAGO policies are not valid in Georgia, so drivers must buy local coverage at the border. He also advised motorists to stay alert on the Georgian Military Road, where cows may lie on the asphalt or cross the winding mountain road - easy to miss at night behind a bend.

Third, he warned against visiting the Gergeti church, which sits at an altitude of about 2,100 meters, in sneakers and without water or a warm jacket. "The weather here changes in half an hour, and a sunny morning easily turns into cold fog," he added.

The traveler also noted that older people in Georgia usually speak Russian, while younger generations increasingly switch to English. According to him, it is best to open a conversation with a couple of words in Georgian - for example "gamardjoba" (hello) and "madloba" (thank you).

"Another common mistake concerns tips. In many restaurants a service charge of 10 to 18 percent is already included in the bill. Before leaving money on the table, it is worth taking a closer look at the receipt," Kutovoy advised.

Earlier, a Russian tourist who visited Georgia described it with the words "hospitality ends where profit disappears," admitting she no longer wants to return to the country.