Tbilisi - Post Report Question and Answers
What do you wish you had known about this particular city/country before moving there?
Understanding the driving conditions, air quality issues, social dynamics, cultural nuances, rising costs, local sentiment, quality of services, language barriers, and the importance of the expatriate community can help better prepare for life in Tbilisi. Driving Conditions: • Hazardous Driving: I wish I had known more about the hazardous driving conditions in Tbilisi. The aggressive and reckless driving, combined with underdeveloped road infrastructure, makes driving very stressful and prone to accidents. Taking the driving seminar organized by the CLO and Motor Pool is essential for understanding local driving habits and safety measures. Air Quality: • Seasonal Pollution: The air quality in Tbilisi can be quite poor, especially during the winter months due to increased use of heating systems and temperature inversions. Monitoring air quality and taking protective measures, such as using air purifiers and limiting outdoor activities on high pollution days, is important for maintaining health. Social Isolation: • Community Dynamics: Social isolation can be a real challenge, particularly for EFMs living in areas like Zurgovani and Digomi. The lack of nearby amenities and the difficulty of driving can make it hard to socialize and engage with the community. Joining local clubs, groups, and online forums can help mitigate this isolation. Cultural Adjustments: • Soviet mentality: The remnants of the Soviet mentality are still present in Tbilisi. This can manifest in various ways, such as local contractors and service providers undermining women and not taking female EFMs’ words as seriously as their male spouses. Being prepared for these cultural nuances can help manage expectations and interactions. Cost of Living: • Rising Costs: The cost of living has increased significantly after the Ukraine war, with a huge influx of Russians. Rent has increased by over 300%, and while groceries and household supplies are generally cheaper than in the U.S., imported goods can be more expensive. Understanding these financial dynamics can help with budgeting and financial planning. Local Sentiment: • Changing Attitudes: There has been a shift in local sentiment towards Americans. While we were initially told that locals love Americans, some community members have noticed a rise in anti-American sentiment. This could be due to various factors, including the current political situation and general frustrations with customer service. Healthcare and Services: • Quality of Services: The quality of healthcare and other services can vary. It is important to research and identify reliable healthcare providers and service professionals before moving. Having a list of recommended doctors, clinics, and emergency contacts can be very helpful. Language Barrier: • Language Skills: While many people in Tbilisi, especially in the younger generation and in the service industry, speak some English, having a basic understanding of Georgian or Russian can significantly enhance daily living experiences. Knowing common phrases and greetings can help with simple interactions in markets, shops, and public transportation. Expatriate Community: • Support Networks: The expatriate community in Tbilisi is relatively small but diverse. Engaging with this community through social events, clubs, and online forums can provide valuable support and camaraderie. Building a strong network can greatly enhance the overall experience of living in Tbilisi. - Mar 2025
I wish I knew how much I would love it, I like to think I savored each moment but now I wish I could go back in time. - Aug 2024
Do not take a nice car. - Aug 2024
How bad the driving truly was - you need to totally relearn how you drive and get used to it. - Aug 2023
Be prepared to gain 10 lbs. The food is so good. - Jun 2020
Nothing! I came with no expectations, and ended up falling in love. It's got some serious flaws that need to be fixed. But it's just such a wonderful place in so many surprising ways. - Jan 2019
Georgian cheese = too salty. - Apr 2017
The people are friendly and like Americans. This can go a long way to make up for a lack of Georgian and/or Russian language. Also, it can get VERY windy. Wind storms are relatively common, meaning outdoor furniture needs to be bolted to the ground or not left outside. - Feb 2017
The driving is seriously bad there. - Jul 2014
