In Georgia, you will encounter warm and friendly people who are always ready to help. When visiting this sunny country, you don't have to worry about communication issues as the younger generation is proficient in English.
National Language
All informational signs, labels, and similar materials are written in Georgian since it is the official language of the country. However, don't worry, as English and Russian translations are provided almost everywhere, especially in major tourist cities.
The majority of locals under the age of 30 speak and understand English.
A Few Facts
Learning this incredibly complex language would require a considerable amount of time and effort. It is nearly impossible for a tourist to comprehend it, and it may even sound like the locals are arguing due to its distinctive sound. This is mainly because of the five vowels, which are pronounced abruptly. The Georgian alphabet consists mostly of consonants, with a total of 28 letters. All letters are of the same height, meaning there are no capital letters or initial capitalization in names.
Interacting with Locals
In tourist cities, knowledge of English is part of the job, as tourists are the main source of income. Of course, there is still a possibility of encountering some individuals, such as certain taxi drivers, who may not understand you. Don't get upset or panic; just look around, as a random passerby will not only help you but also guide you to your destination.
Be prepared that some public transport drivers may not understand you or be unable to respond. This mostly applies to drivers from small villages and rural areas. They do not learn English.
Friendly Georgians
Georgians are known for their easy-going and cheerful nature, making them a very friendly people. Interacting with them is a delight. They will not only provide information and useful advice but may also offer you something to try.
In the area around the seaport, you will come across taxi drivers who are willing to take you to beautiful places near the city at an affordable price. They are all polite and pleasant individuals without a trace of negativity.
Behave modestly and politely, and don't hesitate to communicate with the local population. Do it with a smile. You will be amazed by the warmth with which Georgians treat travelers.
Useful Phrases in Georgian
Every local resident appreciates it when a tourist speaks to them in the local language. They are initially surprised, then their faces light up with a smile, and they are more than willing to engage. We would like to acquaint you with some phrases that will likely come in handy in sunny Georgia:
General Phrases
Remember these phrases for everyday use:
- Yes - ho
- No - ara
- Thank you - gmadlobt
- Please - arapris
- Excuse me - bodishi
- I don't understand - me
- Good - kargad
- Entrance - gekichva
- Exit - gachoveba
- What time is it? - romeli saatia?
- Do you speak English? (French, German, Spanish)
laparakobt inglisurad (prangulad, germanulad, ispaniurad)?
Greetings and Farewells
Don't forget about polite words:
- Hello - gamardzobat
- Goodbye - nakhvamdis
- Bye - dzherdzherobit
- Good morning - dila mshvidobisa
- Good evening - sagamo mshvidobisa
- Good night - game mshvidobisa
Shopping
If you decide to go shopping, remember these phrases:
- Okay, I'll buy it - vkidulob
- What is this? - es ra aris?
- How much does it cost? - ra gh'ris?
- Room - otachi
- Change - khurda
Sightseeing
To explore the main attractions of the country, you may need the following words and phrases:
- I would like to see - me minda vnakho
- Temple - tajari
- Museum - muzemi
- Old town - dzveli kalaki
In a Restaurant
To enjoy a delicious meal in Georgia, remember these phrases:
- This dish - es kerdzi
- A cup of tea/coffee - pindzhani khava/chai
- Red/white wine - tsiteli/tetri gvino
- Mineral water - mineralupi ts'kali
Locating Objects
To navigate the area, don't hesitate to ask locals:
- Where is it located? - sad mdemareobs
- Nightclub - gamis klub'i
- Casino - kazino
- Bank - bank'i
- Market - bazar'i
- Supermarket - supermark'et'i
- Souvenir shop - suvenirebis
After visiting Georgia, you will want to come back here again and again. It's hard to find such kind, responsive, smiling, and friendly people elsewhere. You won't want to leave. Despite their hot temperament, Georgian men are well-mannered and reserved. If women don't give them a reason, they won't impose themselves. Have a great vacation and enjoy warm and vivid experiences.
