Georgia, a country located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, offers stunning natural beauty, a rich history, and a unique culture. The capital, Tbilisi, with its ancient architecture and vibrant atmosphere, serves as the heart of Georgia's urban life. Additionally, other major cities such as Batumi, located on the Black Sea coast, Kutaisi with its wealth of archaeological sites, and Zugdidi, known for its breathtaking landscapes, each have their own distinct attractions that are not to be missed.

However, before planning your trip to Georgia, it's important to understand some basic information that will make your vacation more enjoyable. This article will cover various things you need to know, including how to handle visa applications, customs regulations, and the unique Georgian culture that should be understood to have the best experience during your trip.

Georgia, a fascinating country in the Caucasus region, has relatively easy entry and exit procedures for tourists. Travelers must have a passport that is valid for at least six months after the date of arrival. However, tourists from some countries, including Indonesia, must apply for a visitor visa before leaving. Upon arrival in Georgia, tourists will go through immigration at Tbilisi's Shota Rustaveli International Airport or through land and sea border posts.

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For Indonesian citizens who plan to travel to Georgia, you are required to apply for an e-Visa according to the purpose of the visit. In applying for an e-Visa, you are advised to have an Indonesian Passport with a validity period of at least 6 (six) months before the scheduled return.

Meanwhile, for those of you who hold Indonesian Diplomatic and Service Passports, you are still required to apply for an e-Visa if you are going to visit Georgia.

As an Indonesian citizen, you need a visa to enter Georgia. The visa can be applied for online through the official website of the Georgian government or through the nearest Georgian embassy. Here are the steps to apply for a visa that can be taken:

1. Register Online: Visit the official Georgia e-Visa website www.evisa.gov.ge and create an account first.

2. Fill in the Form: Fill in the application form with personal data, purpose of visit, and travel information.

3. Upload Documents: Prepare and upload the required documents, such as a passport with a validity period of at least six months, a recent color photo, and proof of accommodation.

4. Pay Visa Fee: Pay the visa fee using the available payment methods.

5. Wait for Approval: After submitting, wait for a confirmation email containing the status of your visa application. This process usually takes around 5-10 business days.

Georgia tourist visas are usually valid for short stays, up to 30 days. Make sure to double check the latest requirements before applying for a visa.

Every country has its own customs regulations that must be followed, and Georgia is no different. Here are some important rules you need to know:

Entry into Georgia requires a valid passport, and visas may be required depending on nationality. Exiting the country generally only requires a valid passport. Make sure all immigration and customs requirements are met for a smooth journey. Read the information below.

After arriving at an international airport such as Tbilisi International Airport, you will go through the following steps:

When leaving Georgia, make sure you arrive at the airport a few hours before your flight schedule. The process you will go through includes:

Here is information related to etiquette and customs, laws and regulations, religious practices, and language and communication in Georgia.

1. Greetings and Greetings

When meeting someone in Georgia, shaking hands is the usual practice, especially among men. For women, a handshake is also acceptable, but often accompanied by a warm smile. The traditional greeting "Gamarjoba" which means "hello" in Georgian, can be used to greet locals.

2. Eating Together

Eating together is an important part of Georgian culture. If you are invited to someone's home, bringing a small gift such as flowers or candy is a good sign of appreciation. During meals, the host will usually serve a variety of dishes, and it is important to try a little of each dish as a sign of appreciation.

3. Being Friendly to Guests

Hospitality is one of the hallmarks of Georgian society. They greatly appreciate guests and will do their best to make them feel comfortable. Don't be surprised if you are invited to stay or eat with them, even by someone you just met.

The following is an explanation of the laws and regulations that apply in Georgia that you need to know if you are going to visit this country:

1. Criminal Acts

Every individual in Georgia, including Indonesian citizens, is required to respect and obey local laws and regulations. If you violate these laws and regulations, you may be subject to deportation, arrest, or detention by local authorities.

2. Arrest and Detention

If you are arrested or detained by local authorities, you have the right to ask the Police or related authorities to notify the nearest Indonesian Representative about your situation. If you choose not to exercise this right, the Indonesian Representative will not be aware of your arrest or detention and will not be able to provide the consular assistance needed during the process. For more information about the assistance available in the event of an arrest or detention, visit (link to the Emergency Resources page).

3. Drugs

The penalties for drug-related offenses in Georgia are very severe, including large fines and long prison terms. So, make sure you follow these rules.

Here are some things related to religious practices in Georgia:

1. Orthodox Christianity

The majority of Georgians are Orthodox Christians. The Georgian Orthodox Church has a strong influence on people’s daily lives. When visiting a church, dress modestly; men should remove their hats, and women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders.

2. Religious Tolerance

Although Orthodox Christianity is the dominant religion, Georgia is also known for its religious tolerance. There are Muslim, Jewish, and other religious minorities living side by side peacefully. Be respectful of all places of worship and religious practices you encounter.

Language and ways of communicating in Georgia are:

Georgian Language

The official language of Georgia is Georgian, which has its own unique script. Although English is becoming more common among the younger generation and in tourist areas, learning a few basic Georgian phrases can be helpful. For example, “madloba” means “thank you” and “gamarjoba” means “hello.”

Non-Verbal Communication

Georgians tend to be expressive in their communication. Direct eye contact is considered a sign of honesty and sincerity. When talking, they may be closer physically than you are used to in Indonesia, so don't feel uncomfortable.

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Here are some safety and travel tips for tourists visiting Georgia:

Terrorism

Georgia was involved in a military conflict with the Russian Federation in 2008. After the cessation of hostilities in August of that year, car bomb attacks occurred in Abkhazia and South Ossetia. Although these attacks generally targeted military or security facilities, it is possible that civilians could be affected. Previously, terrorists have also targeted markets, public transportation, and commercial and public places frequented by foreigners.

Crime

The level of serious crime in Georgia, especially in Tbilisi, has decreased. However, incidents of crime and violence against foreigners still occur, including robberies, carjackings, sexual assaults, home invasions, and attacks in various parts of Georgia. Travelers are advised to remain vigilant, especially when walking at night, including around hotels and residential areas.

Civil Unrest / Political Tensions

Political demonstrations are common in Georgia, especially in Tbilisi. It is best to avoid all rallies and demonstrations, as these situations can turn violent at any time.

Here are some tips for travelers to stay safe and comfortable while in Georgia:

1. Keep Your Personal Belongings Safe

Always keep your personal belongings safe, especially in crowded places. Use the right bag and avoid carrying large amounts of valuables. If possible, leave valuables in hotels that have safes.

2. Use Safe Transportation

Public transportation in Georgia is quite good, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Use an official taxi with an ID or a trusted taxi app. If using public transportation such as buses or metro, be sure to always be aware of your belongings.

3. Avoid Showing Off Wealth

Flashing off wealth such as wearing valuable jewelry or carrying large amounts of cash can attract unwanted attention. Try to dress modestly and inconspicuously.

4. Keep Important Documents Safe

Passports, plane tickets, and other important documents should be kept safe. Make copies of these documents and keep them in a separate place from the originals. This will be helpful in case the originals are lost or stolen.

5. Obey Local Laws and Customs

Avoid behavior that could be considered rude or against local laws. For example, smoking in public and drinking alcohol where it is not allowed are actions that could get you in trouble with the authorities.

Here is a health guide for tourists who will visit Georgia:

Health Facilities

Georgia has a variety of quality health facilities in large cities such as Tbilisi, Batumi, and Kutaisi. Large hospitals in these cities usually have English-speaking doctors and adequate medical facilities. However, in rural areas, health facilities may be more limited, and English may not be commonly spoken.

Pharmacies and Medicines

You can easily find pharmacies in Georgia and the surrounding large cities, as they are usually open from morning until night. Some pharmacies are even open 24 hours. You can get general medicines without a prescription, but for special medicines or antibiotics, a doctor's prescription is usually required. It is a good idea to bring personal medicines that you may need during your trip, especially if you have certain health conditions.

Some mandatory vaccinations and health requirements that need to be done if you want to visit Georgia:

Vaccinations

Before leaving for Georgia, make sure you have had basic vaccinations such as DPT (Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus), MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella), and Hepatitis A and B. In addition, vaccinations for Typhoid and Rabies are also recommended, especially if you plan to visit rural areas or interact with animals.

Mandatory Health

Make sure you are in good health before leaving. If you have certain health conditions, bring the necessary medicines and consult a doctor about your trip. Also, bring a medical certificate if necessary, especially if you are bringing medicines that require a special prescription.

In Georgia, the emergency numbers that you can contact include:

112 is the emergency number that you can call for various emergency situations, including medical needs.

In addition, for public safety emergency contacts, you can contact:

Health Contacts

Emergency numbers for health contacts in Georgia include:

Here are some tips to stay healthy while in Georgia:

1. Drink Safe Water

Tap water in Georgia is generally safe to drink in big cities, but to avoid health risks, it is better to drink bottled water that is easily found in shops and supermarkets.

2. Maintain Food Hygiene

Try to eat in clean and reputable places. Avoid food from street vendors whose hygiene is questionable. Don't forget to always wash your hands before eating or use hand sanitizer.

3. Avoid Insect Bites

If you plan to do outdoor activities or visit rural areas, use insect repellent to avoid mosquito bites or other insects that can carry diseases.

4. Bring Personal Medication

Bring personal medications that you may need during your trip, including medication for headaches, flu, diarrhea, and specific medications according to your health condition. Don't forget to also bring a basic first aid kit.

5. Use Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is a very important investment to protect you from various health risks while traveling. Make sure your insurance covers medical expenses and emergency evacuation.

Georgia is a country that is not always free from natural disasters, so before visiting this country, make sure to find out information about things that often happen.

Here are the natural disasters that usually occur in Georgia:

1. Earthquakes

Georgia is located in a seismically active zone, which means earthquakes are one of the natural disasters that can occur. Although major earthquakes are rare, moderate earthquakes can occur and cause damage. Cities such as Tbilisi and Kutaisi have experienced earthquakes in their history.

2. Floods

Floods are another natural disaster that often occurs in Georgia, especially during the spring and summer when snow melts in the mountains. Large rivers such as the Mtkvari (Kura) River can overflow their banks and cause flooding in the surrounding areas. Floods can damage infrastructure and disrupt daily activities.

3. Landslides

Georgia has a diverse topography with many mountains, which makes it prone to landslides. Landslides usually occur after heavy rain or earthquakes, and can cause damage to roads and buildings.

4. Forest Fires

Forest fires are also a threat in Georgia, especially during the dry summers. Forest fires can damage ecosystems and threaten settlements near forests.

Georgia is a country that has a diverse climate, namely as follows:

1. Subtropical and Continental Climate

Georgia has a climate that varies depending on the region. The western part of Georgia, including the city of Batumi, has a subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild winters. Meanwhile, the eastern part of Georgia, including Tbilisi, has a continental climate with hot, dry summers and cold winters.

2. Summer and Winter

Summer in Georgia lasts from June to August, with average temperatures ranging from 25-30 degrees Celsius in the lowlands and cooler in the mountains. Winter lasts from December to February, with average temperatures ranging from 0-5 degrees Celsius in the lowlands and can reach below zero in the mountains.

3. Spring and Autumn

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are ideal times to visit Georgia due to the comfortable weather and beautiful natural scenery. During this season, temperatures range between 10-20 degrees Celsius.

Georgia is a country that has a diverse climate, namely as follows:

Early Warning System

Georgia has an early warning system for earthquakes and floods that helps communities prepare before a disaster occurs. This system includes continuous seismic and hydrological monitoring, as well as notifications via mass media and text messages.

Evacuation and Emergency Response

The Georgian government has developed an evacuation and emergency response plan to deal with natural disasters. Emergency services such as firefighters, police, and medical teams are on standby to provide immediate assistance. In addition, there are evacuation centers equipped with basic necessities for residents affected by disasters.

Education and Awareness

Public education and awareness about natural disasters are also a focus of the Georgian government. Educational programs in schools and public awareness campaigns are conducted to increase understanding of disaster risks and steps that should be taken to reduce their impact.

International Cooperation

In addition, Georgia also collaborates with international organizations and neighboring countries to improve disaster management capacity. International aid often comes in the form of funds, equipment and expertise to assist in post-disaster recovery.

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