Located on the strip of land between the Black and Caspian seas, known as the Caucasus, Georgia has been continuously inhabited since the Stone Age. The busiest trade route, the Silk Road, ran through Georgia, bringing many different cultures through its borders and boosting its economy.

Gaining independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, the country is embracing its tourist potential. Known for their sincere hospitality, Georgians do their best to make visitors feel welcome.

Often guests are invited to dine at residents' homes to partake in the supratradition, where local cuisine can be sampled, an amazing blend of Asian, Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, Persian and European flavors and where endless toasts of wine are made. Wine is integral to Georgian culture. They have a longstanding wine-making tradition, having produced it for over 3,000 years.

The capital Tbilisi, getting its name from the warm springs found in the area, has a distinct Mediterranean atmosphere. Visitors can wander the winding narrow streets and indulge in the cafe culture, visit some of the finest museums and art galleries in the region, as well as the theater and Turkish baths.

At the other end of this small country, the warm Black Sea invites travelers to source out its more isolated beaches and visit the many local markets, spilling over with fresh produce from the orange, banana and lemon groves found in the area.

From the Word Travels destination guide to Georgia copyright Globe Media 2011