Georgia Basics

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Time: Local time is GMT +4.

Electricity: Electrical current is 220 volts, 50 Hz. The European round two-pin plugs are standard.

Language: Georgian is the official language but Russian and English are also spoken. In Abkhazia, a region in west Georgia, the Abkhazian language also has the status of an official language.

Health: Measures should be taken against malaria, there is no risk in Tbilisi, but visitors to the southeastern areas should take chloroquine before travel. Tap water should be used. Bottled water is widely available. Medical care in Georgia is limited, especially outside Tbilisi. Many doctors and hospitals will expect payment in cash, regardless of whether you have travel health insurance.

Tipping: For service in restaurants, cafes or taxis, the bill is usually rounded up to the nearest 10.

Safety: There are two independent regions in Georgia, South Ossetia in north-central Georgia and Abkhazia in the northwest. These two regions have sporadic clashes with the national government, although since 2004, armed conflict between these two regions and the government has ceased. These two areas are not recommended for travel. Another area of concern is Pankisi Gorge where national armed forces have occasionally conducted operations against suspected international terrorists, Chechen fighters and criminals who have taken refuge in the area. Georgia is a relatively safe country, but robbery has increased, hence travellers should not carry large amounts of cash on them or flaunt their wealth. Walking alone in quiet areas at night is also not safe.

Customs: Georgians are friendly, hospitable and gregarious people. Visitors should not be surprised if offered drinks by complete strangers while dining at a restaurant or sitting at a bar. If visiting a church, suitable clothing should be worn. Shorts are inappropriate and women should cover their heads.

Business: Suitable business attire for men is a suit, while dresses or suits are appropriate for women. Business cards are frequently exchanged. Georgians pride themselves on being good hosts, so meetings could easily be followed by a luncheon or dinner. Expect that many drinks will be bought and many toasts will be partaken in. If invited into a private home, a small gift of chocolates, flowers or alcohol is a good gesture. Business hours are usually 10am to 6pm.

Communications: The international dialling code for Georgia is +995. The outgoing code is 8-10 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 8-10 44 for the UK). Area codes exist, such as 32 for Tbilisi. Mobile phone coverage is good in the capital and along coastal regions, but signal strength is not as good in other areas. Landlines are widely available and Internet access is available in the city and at major hotels.

Duty Free: Travellers are allowed to import 200 cigarettes; 3 litres of wine or 10 litres of beer and personal goods up to the weight of 100kg, without incurring a customs duty. If importing more than 20kg of goods, a tax of 1 lari per kilo will apply.