Georgian souvenirs are wonderful: blue tablecloths with the trademark Georgian design, handmade wool scarves, hats, Georgian wine horns, art inspired by the famous Georgian painter, Pirosmani, and a variety of other chachkies. Finding it impossible to resist the chance to pick up some Christmas gifts, two classmates and I decided to devote a free morning to a Georgian shopping adventure.
Our first stop was Gallery 27, a highly recommended and funky looking store near old Tbilisi. We hopped in a taxi and headed on our way. The cab driver navigated Tbilisi’s streets in the now familiar Georgian way—quickly, efficiently, and loudly—dropping us off at the store. Or so we thought. The cab driver brought us to Jerusalem, a lovely little square with several cute restaurants and small hostels, but no Gallery 27. Fortunately, Google came to the rescue and we found the store we were looking for just a block away.
Alas, it did not open until 11:00…it was 10:15 and we had to be back to the hotel for meetings at noon (there was work to be done). The mishap did not break our spirits, and we used it as an opportunity to explore the city. On our walk back to Rooms Hotel, we experienced the beautiful hustle and bustle of Tbilisi’s streets. We passed through Freedom (or Liberty) Square, enjoyed the breathtaking views from the Peace Bridge, and followed the Mtkvari River to the Dry Bridge Market. Along the way we marveled at the Georgian street art and sculptures, made some canine friends, passed a Mtkvari River fisherman and a Georgian skate park.
Finally, we made it the Dry Bridge Market. Let the Christmas shopping begin! Unfortunately, duty called. By the time we made it to the market, it was 11:15 and our research projects were calling. We caught a cab back to the hotel and parted ways to our various interviews. Our family and friends may not receive the gifts we intended but we certainly enjoyed our “shopping” excursion in the eclectic city of Tbilisi.
-- Jenna N., Cohort 4