What if you could explore a place
most people will never see...
And leave feeling
like a local?
You will if you travel to the country of Georgia with CleverDever Adventures
The Chronicles of Georgia: Voyage of the Wine Treader
August/September 2022
Travel on a cultural immersion adventure that explores the roots of Georgia from castles to cave cities to clay vessels filled with wine (Prince Caspian not included)
āI would 100% recommend this trip to others.
THANK YOU ALL FOR A TRIP OF A LIFETIME!ā
Madison B.
You want to explore the country of Georgia like a local...but you don't know any locals
Well that's an issue. But you have me - Juliana Dever - and that's almost as good!
When I fall in love with a country, I dig in and start scouting. I criss-cross a region, wander off the beaten path, and make loads of friends.
I sit and visit with people, learn from them, and ask them if theyād like to share any favorite spots that I can share with you when I bring you back.
When you travel with me, you go where the locals go
I have an innate knack for cutting through travel noise and getting past hollow theme-park-like tourist traps.
I have NO IDEA how to show you how to do this, it's just a superpower of mine.
I've created a Georgian adventure and I want to take you with me so you can connect with the culture in ways you wouldn't if you went by yourself.
My immersion trips take you where no other tour companies go
- Like here: The Chronicles of Georgia monument
If you're going to spend all that time and money to experience a destination, it needs to be meaningful.
I've had tour operators tell me I don't need to work so hard to bring you the little gems because you "won't know what you're missing."
But I will. That's why my itineraries are so extensive.
And I know you - that's not why you and I travel. We want to explore to the fullest and really understand a culture.
We love to make real, authentic human connections (and eat all the food, too. Ahem.).
I spend months exploring, researching, and curating immersion adventures for you and me to go on together. My trips are hand-crafted to bring you the full scope of a culture, stopping places others can't - or don't even know about.
Thatās why my tours are so unique
That and the most awesome people go on my adventures, so having a blast traveling with each other is all but inevitable. You'll have more fun with your new traveling companions than binge-ing a season of The Good Place.
"I have not laughed so hard or been as comfortable with strangers as on this trip...or fallen in love with a country like I have with Georgia and her people."
Jane L.
Have unexpected experiences in unusual places
Making new friends and feeling like an insider in a new country happens so fast when you travel with me.
My trips are all FULLY CURATED by me, personally. You'll go deeper, feel a sense of place, and come away with a first-hand cultural understanding that will stay with you forever.
There are No cookie-cutter rushed stops
No touristy-style highlights
No corporate designed, out-of-touch itineraries
...just authentic, connected, meaningful one-of-a-kind travel experiences.
Stop wasting hours dissecting TripAdvisor.
Travel with an expert who's been there
Like, a LOT
- I've traveled the world avidly for 20 years
- Journeyed through 60 countries
- Lived in France, Greece, and Russia
- ...and I've been to Georgia alone four times so far.
And Sarah, my destination manager, considers Georgia her spiritual homeland. She's a Georgian wine expert who has more connections than the London Underground.
Together our knowledge and experience mean we create trips to the country of Georgia like no one else.
Your guides were born and raised in Georgia, and are at the top of their game. These women run the Georgian guide certification program in Tbilisi. But they also know all the nooks and crannies of this fascinating country personally.
Because of this, we're able to create experiences and introduce you to people you wouldn't have access to if you traveled here on your own.
You'll only get that kind of authentic adventure by traveling with locals, not by spending 17 hours reading reviews of the same 10 things on TripAdvisor.
"This is the 1st tour I've ever taken where I felt like I got an actual glimpse of how locals really live, instead of only seeing tourist stop highlights. I could've never done this on my own."
Tammy T.J.
Intimate group tours for the culturally curious.
Who's Going
ONLY 12 people max + your host, Juliana Dever!
Trip Design
Culturally Immersive, Local Experiences, Guided, Fully Curated
Style
Mix of 3* and 4* Boutique Hotels and Traditional Guest Houses
Difficulty
Easy-Moderate walking tours, Intermediate hike optional
Wait, Where is this Georgia Place?
So, it's not Russia?
Yeah, no.
Although Georgia was once a part of the Soviet Union. Georgia is its own country with its own language, heritage, cuisine, and a history that involves Persia, and the Silk Road.
And it's not in the USA
It's the country, NOT the state.
Georgia lies mostly within the Caucasus Mountains between Europe and Asia.
The Greater Caucasus forms a natural border between Russia to the north, with the lesser Caucasus dividing Georgia from Turkey and Armenia to the south. The west ends at the Black Sea and the east, at Azerbaijan.
Georgia is in turns rugged, sophisticated, serene, and rustic.
"Loved loved loved it, so much fun, would 100% do another/more tours! Thank you for doing all of this!! It really was the trip of a lifetime!
Also loved that it was in a place most tourists don't go!!"
Taylor V.
What's Georgia Like?
What's Included in the Cultural Immersion Tour to Georgia?
Your inclusive tour price covers all of this:
- All hotel accommodations - 10 nights in 3* and 4* hotels
- Airport pickup and drop-off
- Local and regional transportation via private van
- Breakfast daily
- Lunch, supras (traditional Georgian feasts), and dinner as indicated - Including wine!
- Wine tastings
- Entry fee to all planned activities
- Private guided tours
- Gratuities at all restaurants
- Intimate group tour - There are ONLY 12 spots total!
Does not include: Air travel, some independent meals, gratuities for guides, drivers and porters
Plus These Bonuses!!
- Access to our Georgia Adventure Private Facebook Group - Make friends in advance!
- 1 Hour Group Planning Session via Zoom Video Conference
- Natural Fiber Tote Bag - Say No to Plastic Bags and Stay Sustainable!
- Georgia Packing List - Must have!
- Before Your Trip Countdown Checklist - Don't forget a thing!
- One-on-One 20-minute Planning Call with Juliana Dever
Moments that just might happen when you take a CleverDever Adventure...
You Might Find Yourself
- Ditching afternoon plans, ordering two more bottles of wine and playing Never Have I Ever until you're howling with laughter at something you can't believe your travel mate just revealed.
- Creating your own group and naming it the "Borjomi Homies" 4Eva. Actually the last group came up with that title so you might need to come up with your own name.
- Learning about my favorite Tbilisi monument which I call the "Champagne for my real friends, real pain for my sham friends" statue (because I'm nothing if not an accurate historian).
- Eating an intimate dinner with locals at their favorite restaurant when they suddenly break into song over dumplings.
- Sailing across Lake Lopota (because the Caspian Sea is another country over) in search of wine. Which is the easiest thing to find in Georgia, but we'll still crown you an explorer.
...and so, so much more.
What's on the Itinerary?
You Do NOT Want to Miss This!
Day 1 - Tbilisi
Our adventure kicks off in the late afternoon.
Get the lay of the land with an introductory city walk which takes you from the old city center to the right bank of the Mtkvari river and up to a hilltop viewpoint.
Watch the sunset during your rooftop Georgian wine reception followed by dinner at a traditional restaurant.
Day 2 - Tbilisi
Start your morning with a more in-depth journey into Georgiaās history, then break out and follow your interests with architectural walks, market tours, or cooking classes.
- CleverDever Exclusive: Lucky you, dinner is with locals at their favorite restaurants in the city.
Day 3 - Kazbegi
We're on the road today. First stop is the Chronic-WUT-cles of Geor-gi-a!
Because this adventure is all about digging into the roots of the country you'll be getting a big dose of history. This time in the form of a hulking monument telling the story of Georgia.
Next we make our way through the Greater Caucasus mountains to land near the Russian border. You'll have free time tonight to soak up the fresh air or a glass of Rkatsiteli and relax in style.
Day 4 - Kazbegi
Wake up and hit the mountains. Whether you're an experienced trekker or you just want to see that monastery on the top of the ridge, we've got options for your mobility level.
Today is filled with nature, picnics and free time as you fill your lungs with fresh mountain air.
- CleverDever Exclusive: Dinner is in the home of a local who is cooking up regional mountain dishes for us.
Day 5 - Kakheti
On your way to wine country and more nature! But first a stop at an important citadel halfway down the mountain.
Every good road trip needs a wine tasting stop, so be prepared to learn more about Georgia's viniculture.
- CleverDever Exclusive: Lunch is at the home of an incredible chef who'll spoil you with her homemade cheeses and local dishes.
Day 6 - Kakheti
Wake up at your lakeside retreat. Today you have free time to determine your level of activity from sloth to athlete. The sky's the limit - literally. Our lodging offers experiences from hot air ballooning to horseback riding to boating to spa time.
- CleverDever Exclusive: Go with your guides to the town's local bazaar and then do some brandy tasting.
Dinner is at a loopy local chateau nearby where the proprietor brews his own beer. Many have been known to break into song.
Day 7 - Kakheti
Today we spend time in the storybook town of Signaghi. Overlooking the Alvani Valley this beautiful village is in the center of Georgia's wine region.
- CleverDever Exclusive: Our feast of a lunch is at the home of some of the friendliest and winemakers who will take you through the history of their wines.
- CleverDever Exclusive: Prepare to get a little cozy tonight as we stay at an artist's house.
Day 8 - Borjomi
This morning's journey begins with a stop at one of Georgia's oldest cities and the original capital. At the confluence of two rivers, this ancient town is now a place to discover handicrafts, the roots of the Georgian way of life, and wine ice cream. Because of course they make ice cream out of wine here.
Arriving in the country's prized wellness town, you'll be staying in the very center of Borjomi. Famed for its natural mineral waters you can hike into the forest and take a dip or grab a gondola ride to the top of the hill for a birdseye view of the valley.
Day 9 - Borjomi
There's so much to do in this little village and you have free time to do it. Venture out on your own in town or hike through the park and into nature to enjoy the natural sulfur springs.
OR take an optional day trip with your guide to the mountain village of Bakuriani via the royal railway. Built by the Imperial family of Russia in 1897, this trestle trip includes track built by Gustave Eiffel.
Day 10 - Rabati
You get to explore the ancient cave city of Vardzia, built in the 12th century and abandoned in the 16th.
You'll be staying in Akhaltsikhe with the breathtaking Rabati castle complex all around you.
- CleverDever Exclusive: Learn about the original wine grapes of Georgia, see 400-year old vines and have dinner with the man that is working to keep this history alive.
Day 11 - Tbilisi
Spend dawn watching the sunrise over the turrets of your castle fortress.
The road trip back to the city will be filled with stops to meet more local artisans.
We'll return to Tbilisi in plenty of time for you to explore. And I'll give you lots of recs whether you want to buy an old Russian tea set or shop trendy Georgian designers.
- CleverDever Exclusive: Our farewell dinner will be an unforgettable night in the home of another incredible Georgian.
activities subject to change
PROUDLY ASSOCIATED WITH
Pricing and Payment Options
11 Day Culturally Immersive Tour to Georgia
Includes lodging, ground transportation, most meals, wine, professional guides, all planned activities, bonuses PLUS travel with Juliana Dever
āI loved every minute. It was so well organized, planned, and we had such great guides - it made this the best holiday of my life. I would definitely go on another CleverDever Adventure, it is worth every penny.ā āRuth W.
Want Your Own Space?
Upgrade to a private room for the entire trip for only $720USD.
Just check the box single supplement box when you check out.
Want a Roommate?
Traveling Solo but want to take advantage of the double occupancy rate?
Request to share a room with another single traveler upon checkout.
We will do our best to fulfill all share requests, however, we cannot guarantee a roommate. If we cannot pair you, the single supplement rate will apply.
New COVID-19 Policy
Book your spot now for only $475USD!
Note: We will not travel if it is deemed a health concern by the Georgian government.
Georgia has done a great job containing the virus and is considered a "success story" of the pandemic.
However, If we must reschedule this trip due to COVID-19, CDA will reschedule you onto the future trip of your choice with *no* penalty or fees. More info about opting-out here.
*The tour will not be confirmed until a minimum of 6 guests book their spot. DO NOT buy your flights until you receive your tour confirmation letter.
You must be of legal drinking age in your country of residence and at least 18 years of age by the start of the tour.
"As someone who has really never traveled, this trip was even more incredible than I thought it was going to be! We did unique, not touristy activities that really gave me an experience not a vacation."
Lori B.
Georgia FAQs
Is it safe to travel to Georgia?
Yes. Georgia is a safe country, and in fact, rates higher in the Gallup Law and Order report than the United States. While you may have recently heard of Georgia in the news for having disagreements with Russia (an issue they've had for centuries), these have been largely peaceful in recent years.
For anyone that has seen travel advisories issued by their local government, please note that they affect disputed territories that we will neither cross into nor travel near.
What city do you fly into?
The main capital city of Tbilisi is the most accessible to fly into. Itās also where weāll start our tour. Please note that almost all flights arrive around 3 - 4 in the morning. But don't worry! My team will meet you at the airport and drive you to your hotel in the city center where your room will be waiting for you. You can crawl into bed in your clothes. I won't judge.
What's the currency? What is the best way to get it?
The Georgian Lari is the national currency. As a very general guideline, you can expect roughly a 2 to 1 exchange rate with the US Dollar and 3 to 1 with Euro. Laris can easily be obtained at any ATM, including the airport when you land and the lobby of your hotel. You won't need any Lari immediately as my team is picking you up and you can tip the driver at the end of the tour.
Is the tour open to everyone globally?
Yes! Everyoneās invited!
Will I need a visa?
Most travelers to Georgia do not need a visa including visitors from North America and the European Union, however, be sure to double-check that it is not required for your country of residence here.
One other thing, Georgia absolutely requires a valid passport, so make sure you have one and that itās valid for at least six months after the finish of our trip. Go check your passport and be sure the expiration date is December 1, 2021 or after.
What language do they speak in Georgia?
Georgian. Many people in cities and towns speak English. Most people under 35 speak Georgian and English, while folks over 35 tend to speak Georgian and Russian. But weāll also have several Georgian guides with us to help prevent anything getting lost in translation!
What's the climate like?
On the coast, it can be mild and rainy but during the summer there are large amounts of sun. In the mountains, it will be cooler. For the most part, the areas that we will be visiting in the central plains will be sunny, nice and warm. Expect highs around 85Ā°F/ 29.5Ā°C and lows of 65Ā°F/18Ā°C everywhere but in the mountains where it is typically about 10 degrees cooler.
How should I dress?
Georgia is very western with respect to dress, so you donāt have to make any special considerations when visiting other than dressing for the weather. Because we will be going up to the mountains, you'll need light layers and a rain jacket. Weāll also be doing some hiking, so youāll want appropriate footwear for both terrain and comfy shoes for city walking.
Donāt worry, Iāll send everyone whoās going with me a suggested packing list. š
What's the food like? How can food restrictions be accommodated?
You can get the rundown from this post that I wrote specifically about Georgian food. But expect meals filled with wonderful vegetable dishes, lots of cheesy bread (I know you all canāt WAIT to try that cheesy bread!), dumplings, and Iām told there are some great meals if you eat meat as well.
We can accommodate for celiac, vegan, vegetarian, kosher and other food restrictions. Please note Georgians cook very heavily with walnuts and sunflower oil so nut allergies are very difficult to accommodate. Therefore we do not take liability for this.
What's the wine like?
I hope you like wine. šš· This is a trip to a wine-lovers paradise.
We will be visiting several winemakers during this trip and trying lots of wines. The reds are deep and powerful, the whites can be fruity, fragrant and lively and the ORANGE wineā¦oh itās my favorite by far. It might take a few tastings to appreciate it, but it just might become your all-time favorite!
What kind of adapters will I need?
Georgian power sockets are type C and F, which are standard euro round prong plugs. The voltage is 220, so plan to have dual-currency electronics or bring a voltage converter to prevent burnouts.
How much hiking will we be doing?
Once we drive up to the mountains you can take a half-day hike in Mestia, or opt to go via 4x4s even further up into Ushguli, the most remote settlement in Georgia, for a full day hike to Shkara Glacier. How much or how little is up to you.
How's the Internet?
Georgia is very well wired and many cafes and museums have free Wi-Fi if you ask for the password. You can also very easily purchase a Georgian SIM cards at the start of the tour to have connection between hotels.
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