News from the budget airline “Victory” (Pobeda by Aeroflot) tell of coming flights operating between Kutaisi in Georgia and Moscow and Saint Petersburg in Russia. Beginning in September, the airline intends starting regular flights via five Russian airlines.
Tbilisi
Georgia Sees New Boost in Tourism
In tourism news from the Caucasus, the number of international travellers visiting Georgia increased by 23 per cent in January compared with the same month last year, according to the head of the Georgian National Tourism Agency, Giorgi Chogovadze.
UNESCO Moves to Protect Georgian Christian Monuments
UNESCO has awarded historical monuments of the ancient capital of Georgia, Mtskheta special enhanced protections in light of armed conflict. The new status of three epic monuments there is seen as a plea from the UNESCO World Heritage for combatants to refrain from fighting in the areas where these monuments are found.
Tbilisi International Airport Announces Expansion
Tbilisi International Airport is to be expanded to twice its current passenger handling capacity. According to news from the head of the Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development, Dmitry Kumsishvili, the airport will soon be able to serve 3.5 million people a year.
This Month Georgia Celebrates Independence and More
Coming on May 26th, the people of the Republic of Georgia celebrate Independence Day, the so Day of First Republic in 1918. Visitors can view and take part in a variety of scheduled activities including cultural events, and live performances, not to mention sightseeing Tbilisi and other Georgian cites celebrating.
Linking Europe to Asia – Georgian Military Highway
The Georgian Military Highway runs north through the Caucasus from Tbilisi to the border of Russia. Since 1799, it has served as an important link between Asia and Europe. This highway was not referred to as the Military Highway until Russia annexed east Georgia during the 19th century, improving the track for the purpose of troop movements. For the traveler the highway is significant because it travels past some of the most awe inspiring landscapes and attractions in the world.
Georgia’s President Saakashvili Garners Economic Support
The Republic of Georgia is a hot spot for International direct investment in Eastern Europe. Despite an economic contraction after the spat with Russia in 2008, the country is on course for substantial growth this year. President Mikheil Saakashvili is approaching investors in the Middle East this week about accelerating the country’s recovery.