Reports suggest that Turkey’s tourism sector is struggling amid rising prices and dwindling visitor numbers.
And to make matters worse, neighbouring countries like Georgia are drawing tourists away. In efforts to boost its economic prospects via the tourism industry, Georgia is embarking on a series of enhancements by upgrading public transport, developing cruise ports, and refining international signage.
Turkey, once a go-to for affordable vacations, now grapples with a downturn due to surging costs. But while some are turned off from visiting, many are taking to social media to gush about their experiences in Georgia.
One tourist reflected warmly on their Tbilisi visit, imparting advice on Reddit following their trip. They said: “For all tourists visiting Tbilisi, Georgia. Just returned from a family trip to Tbilisi and saw multiple threads asking the same questions about protests, safety, travel, etc. Here’s everything you need to know based on my experience.
“Is it safe? YES! Initially, we stayed in Saburtalo, away from the protests, but later moved directly to Liberty Square. Even that was completely safe. We actually walked through the protests at night just to experience them – it felt more like a festive Christmas gathering than anything else.”
Tourism is reported to have dipped in Turkey (stock image)
(Image: Getty/iStockphoto)
A social media user recently shared their own experiences with followers. They wrote: “Georgia is an amazing country! Pro tip for locals: Please try to be a little nicer to tourists – it would make the experience even better.”
Since the post went viral, numerous people have chimed in to express their love for Georgia, reinforcing its status as a sought-after destination.
Eager travellers shared glowing reviews, with one stating: “I’m in Gudauri right now and Tbilisi was just amazing. Travelled here from the States, and fell in love.”
Another described Georgia as safer than most American cities and admitted: “Beautiful country and so much safer than most cities in America from what I can tell. Truly amazing place. I’ll be sad to leave.”
The sentiment was echoed by others, with remarks such as: “I’m at the airport right now. I don’t want to leave! I’m booking another trip to Georgia in the summer because this country is the best.”
Also, one traveller reminisced: “Spent 17 days in Georgia last month and been to most of these places. Best holiday in a long time.”
Is it safe to visit Georgia?
Currently, the Foreign Office warns against all travel to certain parts of Georgia. For security reasons, FCDO advises against all travel to the breakaway regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia.
FCDO also advises against all but essential travel to areas immediately next to the administrative boundary lines with South Ossetia and Abkhazia.
We’d recommend checking government guidelines and weighing up any safety concerns before booking a trip there.