May 12th - 23rd
10-nights - $2,950 including air* from LAX or JFK, all daily tours, great hotels and more!
* departure tax is not included - see below for the current rate

Here's a new trip for us that we're very excited to offer. This trip will take us to some of the most beautiful countryside in Eastern Europe, the former Soviet Union Armenia, in the mountainous Caucasus region between Asia and Europe. Among the earliest Christian civilizations, it’s defined by religious sites. Armenia is listed among the safest countries for Americans to travel to by the U.S State Department system.

Armenian highlands are distinguished with countless ancient cave dwellings, dating far back into the beginning of human settlement history. There have been phenomenal discoveries of ancient civilization in Armenian caves. The evidence that Armenia was inhabited since prehistoric times is scattered throughout the historical and current territory of the country.

Armenia has not only a 1700-year Christian history, but also more than 2000 years of a pagan past. The Armenians had their own gods, most of which coincided with the Romans and Greeks.

Georgia is a country at the intersection of Europe and Asia. It is a former Soviet republic that’s home to Caucasus Mountain villages and Black Sea beaches. It’s famous for Vardzia, a sprawling cave monastery dating to the 12th century, and the ancient wine-growing region Kakheti. The capital, Tbilisi, is known for the diverse architecture and mazelike, cobblestone streets of its old town.

A land of endless wonders, unspoilt by modern tourism and still retaining its authentic character – Georgia. Once experienced, it will stay with you forever. Exploring Georgia is a constant pleasure. For walkers and hikers the country is sheer heaven, while botanists and bird-watchers will be simply enthralled and archaeologists can’t decide which of the numerous ancient findings to visit first.

With the towering Caucasus Mountains forming the border between Europe and Asia, Georgia has long been an important contact zone. In this mystical land you will be captivated by a thrilling blend of eastern enigma and western elegance. The traditions of the East and West meet in Georgia to form a culture unlike any other in the world.

If you are looking for compelling reasons to visit Georgia how about these:

• The Great Caucasus – The Highest Mountain Range in Europe. Stretching for about 1200km between the Black and the Caspian seas the Caucasus Mountain system is considered a natural boundary between Europe and Asia. This is where you find summits over 5000m, including Mt. Elbrus (5642m) – the highest in Europe.
• Ushguli – Europe’s Highest Village. At 2200m Ushguli is the highest settlement in Europe.
  A Silk Road Country. Georgia has always been a connecting link between Europe and Asia, traversed by many routes including the famous Silk Road.
  
• Cradle of Wine. Grapevine has been cultivated in the fertile valleys of Georgia for about 8000 years. With over 500 varieties of endemic grapes and the world’s first cultivates grapevines, the traditions of viticulture are entwined with the country’s national identity.
  
• Seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites
  
• Ancient Christian Country. Being one of the world’s most ancient Christian countries, Georgia also preserves the most holy relic – the Robe of Christ.
  
• A 3000-Year-Old State. Archaeological excavations provide clear evidence that Georgian tribes formed their statehood as early as the second millennium BC.
  
• Unique Language and Script. Georgian alphabet was created in the 3rd century BC and is one of the only 14 existing scripts in the world.
  
• Homeland of the First European. A 1.7-million-year-old skull found during Dmanisi archaeological excavations is the oldest evidence of human habitation in Europe.

IN BRIEF:
This trip will include nearly all of the tours with some options for adventure tours such as river rafting, mountain biking, zip lining and even hot air ballooning. We have a wonderful itinerary planned with included tours that will take us to the key sites of historical significance and beauty.

We will have 3-nights in the historical capital of Yerevan - founded in 782 BC, making it older than Rome. Yerevan is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, dating back to the 8th century. Yerevan is often pegged as the ‘Pink City’ because of the colour of the stones used to build much of the city centre. We will enjoy a variety of tours over our 3 days here including a visit to the holiest sites in Armenia – Khor Virap Monastery where we will hike up a small hill to discover the monastery and enjoy the breathtaking view on Biblical Mount Ararat. We'll visit Geghard Monastery. This unique monastery is carved into nearby rocks and the surrounding cliffs compose a great part of it. In 2000 it became a UNESCO heritage site. We'll visit Lake Sevan, one is highest freshwater lakes in the world located at an altitude of 1900 meters above the sea level. Along the way we'll try wine, get a lesson in making their famous flat bread called lavash and try some of the local cheese.

On our drive to the next location we'll make stops We will stay one night in the picturesque town of Dilijan. Often called “Little Switzerland” for its nature, Dilijan attracts tourists from all over the world, who come to this wonderful place to enjoy its natural and architectural monuments, to enjoy clear crystal water of natural mineral springs, and simply become closer to nature.We'll enjoy some free time to enjoy the mindblowing scenery of Tavush region.

Then crossing the border into Georgia we will take in one night in the capital of Tbilisi where we will enjoy a wonderful day including a cable car ride up to an amazing fortress and strolling along Shardeni Street. It's here that we'll see some very historic sites including Narikala Fortress that we will reach by cable car, Assumption Church and the Bridge of Peace.

On our way to our next destination we will stop in Mtskheta, a beautifully renovated town belonging to the 2nd half of the I millennium BC, and the first capital of Georgia. We'll visit the Jvari Monastery located on a hill and offers a breathtaking view of the confluence of the Aragvi and Kura rivers. We'll also visit the cave town of Uplistsikhe - this ancient cave town, carved in the rock, is one of the first towns in Georgia. It dates back to the end of II the beginning of I millennium BC.

We then enjoy 2-nights in the lush, adventure center of Borjomi where we can enjoy some great outdoor activity at the beautiful Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park. We'll take a walk to the lovely Likani River Gorge then climb up the Chitakhevi Range. The scenery is breathtaking. We will set up some river rafting and possibly some mountain biking and horseback riding. Read more We'lll visit some amazing places including the Rabati Castlethen a medieval structure dating back to the 8th century.

From Borjomi we head over to the wine region of Kakheti where we will enjoy 2 more nights sorrounded by breathtaking landscapes. We'll stroll around Telavi the historical area of eastern Georgia. A trip to Telavi is an excursion around a surprisingly beautiful region to the world of ancient temples and monasteries, picturesque rivers and valleys.

Telavi is located in the most beautiful Alazani valley on the slope of Tsivi-Gombor ridge. We'll visit Tsinandali village – the patrimony of famous Georgian family – Chavchavadze. The estate is known for its amazing labyrinth planted with exotic trees in it and cellars.

The tour continues to Sighnaghi region, where we'll visit the famous monastery of Bodbe. Here was buried St. Nino – the founder of Christianity in Georgia. Stroll around Sighnaghi – “the town of love” famous for its architecture in the style of southern Italian classicism.
We'll also tour around the famous winery Khareba. Here you will have a degustation of local wines, as well as a master class on baking Georgian bread shoti.

We'll leave Kakheti after a relaxing day on the 22nd to make our way back to Tbilisi for our late night (or early morning) flight back home.

So there it is. A wonderful itinerary covering two amazing and beautiful countries that many US citizens will never see. Plus there are no visa's required!  Cost for this 10-night trip is just $2,950. This will be an amazing trip.  I hope you are able to join us.

$200 DEPOSIT TO SIGN UP

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT (your own room only if you prefer): $850

GROUP AIR:

FROM LAX
Flight:Qatar Airways 740 Departure: Los Angeles 12MAY/405P Arrival:Doha 13MAY/535
Flight:Qatar Airways 285 Departure: Doha 13MAY/850P Arrival:Yerevan 14MAY/1250A
Flight: Qatar Airways 256 Departure:Tbilisi 23MAY/310A Arrival:Doha 23MAY/515A **Must go to the airport Saturday night**
Flight: Qatar Airways 739 Departure:Doha 23MAY/805A Arrival:Los Angeles 23MAY/205P **Arriving to USA on Sunday May 23rd**

FROM JFK
Flight:Qatar Airways 702 Departure: New York Kennedy 12MAY/900P Arrival:Doha 13MAY/415P Meeting the LA group
Flight:Qatar Airways 285 Departure: Doha 13MAY/850P Arrival:Yerevan 14MAY/1250A
Flight: Qatar Airways 256 Departure:Tbilisi 23MAY/310A Arrival:Doha 23MAY/515A
Flight: Qatar Airways 701 Departure:Doha 23MAY/815A Arrival:New York Kennedy 23MAY/300P

INCLUDED:

• airport transfers
• all transfers in air-conditioned vehicles
• English speaking guide service
• all admission fees
• 4 wheel drive vehicle for Gergeti Trinity Church
• wine tasting in Sighnaghi
• 1 bottle of water per day
• all master classes as per itinerary

DOES NOT INCLUDE:

• Departure tax (with our air) - currently running $414 for LA and $436 for JFK and subject to change

• Tips for guides and drivers

OUR HOTELS

Yerevan

Hyatt Place - 4-star

Website - Tripadvisor review

Hyatt Place Yerevan is conveniently located in the center of Yerevan, just off the Republic Square, and the cultural center. The hotel features a selected range of services aimed at providing casual hospitality in a well-designed, contemporary environment.

Guests can recharge at our 24-hour StayFit Gym offering the most modern cardio equipment with LCD touch-screen.

 

 

 

 

Dilijan

Paradise Hotel - 3-1/2 -star

Website     Tripadvisor #1 hotel in Dilijan!

Built in 2011, Best Western Plus Paradise Hotel Dilijan is a luxury hotel located in the picturesque site of Dilijan Resort Town, on the interstate highway connecting Armenia and Georgia.

The Hotel features a spacious Lobby, Conference Halls, Winter Garden, stylish Outdoor and Indoor Cafés, Bar and Restaurant, Outdoor and Indoor Swimming pool Wellness Centre and 62 spacious and comfortable guest rooms which convey the sense of peaceful elegance.

The Hotel friendly staff, the high quality service that meets the international standards and the unique architectural design creates an excellent environment for your perfect rest and efficient work.

We trust your stay will be enjoyable and hope that you continue choosing Best Western Plus Paradise Hotel Dilijan for your lodging needs in the near future.

 

 

Tbilisi

Courtyard by Marriott - 4-star

Website     Tripadvisor review 

Reward yourself with a memorable hotel experience in Georgia at the Courtyard Tbilisi, ideally located in Freedom Square in the heart of the city centre. Our hotel is within walking distance of many local attractions including the Georgian National Museum, Rustaveli Theatre, the State Opera House, as well as many superb art galleries, gardens and attractions.

Our modern and comfortable hotel accommodations feature plush bedding, high-speed Internet access, climate control, premium amenities and scenic views of Tbilisi city centre in upgraded rooms. Additional hotel perks include a fitness center and whirlpool, as well as a heated indoor pool. Make sure to visit our hotel restaurant, Brasserie Freedom, for delicious all-day dining and stunning Freedom Square views.

Borjomi

Crown Plaza - 4-star

Website     Tripadvisor review  #1 hotel in Borjomi!

Crowne Plaza Borjomi - Where Hospitality Meets the Nature. Crowne Plaza Borjomi is situated in the heart of Borjomi, a picturesque Georgian resort town well known for its artesian natural springs. Nestled between hills and by a small river, nearby Borjomi Central Park, the Hotel features 101 guest rooms, six conference rooms, Restaurant, Wine Bar and most importantly, a 2400 sq.m. Spa & Wellness Center, providing generous living space, comfortable working environment and relaxation area.

Crowne Plaza Borjomi Wellness, Spa and Yoga Centre are offering extensive leisure facilities: Swimming Pool, Borjomi Bath, floating bath, various steam rooms, individual head to toe treatment rooms, Hot Sulphur Bath, Yoga Room and 4 senses lounge, as well as an array of SPA treatments to satisfy the most discerning tastes and needs.

 

 

 

 

Kakheti

Radisson Collection - 4-star

Website     Tripadvisor review  #1 hotel in Kakheti!

Located in the heart of Georgia's renowned wine country, the Radisson Collection Hotel, Tsinandali Estate Georgia in Kakheti invites you to explore the many vineyards as well as the region's rich history from one exclusive vantage point.

All 141 guest rooms and suites are exquisitely designed to match the serenity of the area and offer breathtaking views for an exceptional stay. Boasting an outstanding rooftop infinity pool overlooking the Caucasus Mountains, a delicious variety of restaurants, and a revitalizing spa, we promise an unforgettable experience.

The serenity surrounding the Radisson Collection Hotel, Tsinandali Estate Georgia will take your breath away and fill you with tranquility for a soothing stay. Wake up and smell the vineyards as you take in the stunning views of the Caucasus Mountains approximately 100 km from Georgia's capital, Tbilisi. Stroll through the historic 18-hectare park which also houses the Tsinandali Palace Museum of Prince Alexander Chavchavadze. Wine connoisseurs and novices will appreciate the exceptional on-site wine tasting opportunities, offering an insider's guide to Georgian wine production and an inspiring experience for all palates.

Sign up for this Trip!