Why should you travel to Tbilisi, Georgia? While you might come for the 8,000-year-old wine, you’ll want to stay for the wild hospitality and a city full of surprises. Levan Giorgadze is a theater-trained tour guide and founder of Tbilisi Free Walking Tours, where he shares Georgia’s rich history and culture with travelers from all over the world. A passionate ambassador for his homeland, Levan’s deep knowledge and playful storytelling have made him one of the most sought-after local guides in the region. In this episode, we’re talking all things Georgia (the country!), from ancient wine traditions to offbeat Soviet architecture, cultural quirks, and tips for connecting with locals in Tbilisi and beyond. If you’re planning a trip to Tbilisi, Georgia or curious about why it’s become one of the most talked-about destinations, this episode is a must. Levan shares what makes the city so special, from it’s special amber wines made in underground clay jars to off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods and other hidden gems in Tbilisi. You’ll learn why you should never cut a khinkali and what it’s like to lead a free walking tour in Tbilisi for nine years. You’ll get insider tips on the best local wine bars, Soviet-era architecture, and how to connect with locals on a deeper level. Whether you're after a cultural travel experience or just want the best Tbilisi travel tips, this episode will help you see the city like a local. What do you think makes a place truly unforgettable - the food, the people, the stories, or something else entirely? I'd love to hear what you think, and I hope you’ll share by sending me an audio message.  Tune In To Learn:  Why Georgian amber wine might be the oldest winemaking tradition in the world  How Georgia's diverse microclimates shape its food, nature, and wine  Advice to connect with locals (and maybe get invited to dinner)  What travelers can learn from locals, and what Levan’s learned from travelers  Why you should never cut a khinkali dumpling  How Levan started one of the first free walking tours in Tbilisi  Hidden gems in Tbilisi, including the SkyBridge and Soviet-era print house  Why the “Chronicle of Georgia” monument is worth the trip out of town  Where to find the best markets, street food, and people-watching opportunities  What to bring home from Georgia besides a bottle of wine  And so much more  Resources:  Sign up for our FREE newsletter  Tbilisi Free Walking Tours  Want More?  Top 10 Health and Wellness Destinations (The Best Places To Live In The World) with Nina Butler  Exploring Kyoto Japan, Creative Expression Through Street Photography, Connecting With Your Heritage Abroad with Taro Moberly  Hidden Norway: 7 Off The Beaten Path Gems You’ll Love, Popular Norwegian Concepts Worth Stealing, Trekking In Bhutan, & Living At The Crossroads of Magic & Science w/ Torunn Tronsvang from Up Norway  Thanks To Our Sponsors  Apple Card - Earn 3% back on the Apple products and services you love with Apple Card.  Moon Travel Guides - Use code ‘ZERO’ for 20% off your order.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices