Category: News

Spring break season is upon us, and whether you’re dreaming of sandy beaches, majestic mountains, or something in between, there are fantastic destinations waiting to be explored. But what if I told you that you could experience the allure of popular international spots without crossing oceans? Let’s dive into some exciting destination dupes that won’t break the bank. Monterey Bay: A Coastal Gem Monterey, California—a coastal city about 120 miles…

Seattle, known for its stunning views, tech scene, and coffee culture, is also home to some of the most expensive real estate in the country. According to a recent affordability report by Zillow, Emerald City residents need to earn significantly more income than their counterparts in other major metros to “comfortably afford” a home. Let’s explore this topic further. The Income Threshold Seattleites must make a whopping $213,984 annually to…

In a world where age is often reduced to mere numbers, it’s time to shift our perspective. Instead of labeling individuals as “elderly,” let’s embrace the term “elder.” This subtle change can transform how we view aging and the wisdom that comes with it. The Age Conundrum Defining “elderly” isn’t straightforward. Different countries and cultures have varying thresholds. For instance: In developed nations, 65 is often considered the starting point…

As the Russian aggression against Ukraine persists, the European Union (EU) remains resolute in its commitment to limit Russia’s sources of revenue and capacity to wage war. The EU’s 14th package of sanctions, adopted today, targets key sectors of the Russian economy, including energy, finance, and trade. Let’s delve into the details: The EU’s latest sanctions package deals a further blow to Putin’s regime and those perpetuating the illegal war…

The European Union (EU) has long held the door open for Georgia’s potential membership. However, recent actions by the Georgian government have raised concerns. If this trajectory continues, the consequences could be severe. Let’s delve into the situation: The Open Door Georgia’s aspiration to join the EU is not in question. The door remains open, beckoning the country toward a European future. But there’s a caveat: the path must be…

As tensions escalate in the disputed region between Russia and Abkhazia, a recent incident has left one person dead and three others injured. The shooting occurred along the so-called border, which separates occupied Abkhazia from Russia. According to the “prosecutor’s office” in Gagra, the violence stemmed from a personal conflict between a Russian citizen and a resident of occupied Abkhazia. The Incident The tragic event unfolded near the line of…

Amidst the picturesque landscapes of the South Caucasus, Georgia’s energy sector has been buzzing with activity. In May 2024, the nation’s electricity export surged by an impressive 16.5%. This boost in exports has significant implications for the region and the global energy market. Export Destinations Three countries stood out as major recipients of Georgia’s electricity during this period: Turkey – The largest export destination, Turkey received a staggering $12.95 million…

I moved to Georgia from England in September 2009, the year after their short war with Russia. Every year, I reflect on my life in Georgia—the country, not the US state (it needs qualifying every time). People often ask me if I like Georgia, and my answer is a nuanced one. Fantastic Light Georgia boasts fantastic light. Clear, sunny days are abundant, making for excellent photos. Coming from England, where…

Curfew to be Abolished in Georgia from July 1 Based on the decision of the Interagency Coordination Council of the Government, the restriction on movement at night (the curfew) will be abolished across the country from July 1. Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili announced this during a briefing on June 22. The curfew has been in force in Georgia since the end of November, and various business sectors have been appealing…

This week, Radio Free Europe/RL’s Georgian Service sat down with Daniel Foubert, a Polish-French geo-economist and founder of the international affairs consultancy Excalibur Insight, to discuss the European Parliament elections and their implications for France, Germany, the EU, and Georgia. Winners and Losers While the far right claims victory, the actual impact on the European Parliament is less significant. Marine Le Pen’s ID group gained about 20 more seats, but…