I’m a California-based writer in my thirties, and I recently spent two months living in the country of Georgia. What started as a curiosity-driven adventure quickly became an eye-opening experience about safety, affordability, and daily life in this fascinating corner of the world.
Georgia: A Land of Unexpected Comfort and Hospitality
Before arriving, I had the usual concerns any solo traveler might have—would I feel safe? Would the language barrier be difficult? How expensive would it be to live there? Within weeks, I found most of my worries were misplaced.
Georgia is not only welcoming but also incredibly easy to navigate, even for someone with little knowledge of Georgian or Russian. The warmth of the locals was unmatched. It was common for strangers to invite me for dinner or offer help if I looked lost. I was also surprised by the country’s affordability, especially compared to Western Europe or the U.S.
Safety: More Secure Than You Might Think
Many travelers (especially those from the U.S.) have a built-in fear when heading to a lesser-known country. My own anxiety had me triple-checking my locks and second-guessing my nightly walks in Tbilisi. But the reality? Georgia felt safer than some major American cities.
The data backs it up. According to Gallup’s Law and Order Index, Georgia ranks among the top 35 safest countries globally, scoring 86 out of 100—on par with Japan and Germany. Even solo female traveler rankings place Georgia as the 33rd safest country in the world, with a 4.6/5 safety score.
One night, I wandered through Tbilisi’s historic streets at 2 a.m. after a late dinner. Instead of sketchy alleyways or aggressive strangers, I found groups of friends laughing outside cafes, taxi drivers happily offering directions, and a general sense of calm that put me at ease.
Cost of Living: A Budget-Friendly Haven
Living in Georgia, even in its capital city, was surprisingly affordable. A breakdown of my average monthly expenses looked like this:
| Expense | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Rent (1BR Apartment, Tbilisi) | $300 – $500 |
| Utilities & Internet | $50 – $80 |
| Groceries | $150 – $250 |
| Dining Out | $3 – $10 per meal |
| Public Transport | $5 – $15 |
| Entertainment & Extras | $50 – $100 |
A high-quality meal at a traditional Georgian restaurant, complete with wine, could cost as little as $7. A metro ride? Just 40 cents. For remote workers or budget-conscious travelers, Georgia is a dream.
Daily Life: Easy, Vibrant, and Full of Surprises
Adjusting to life in Georgia was far smoother than I anticipated. English is widely spoken in Tbilisi, especially among younger people and in tourist areas. The country also has one of the most straightforward visa policies—citizens from over 90 countries (including the U.S.) can stay visa-free for up to a year.
Some highlights of my daily life:
- Walking down Rustaveli Avenue, soaking in the mix of Soviet-era and modern architecture.
- Hopping on a marshrutka (minibus) for spontaneous weekend trips to the Caucasus Mountains.
- Drinking strong, homemade chacha (a Georgian grape spirit) with friendly locals who insisted I try it.
Even something as simple as grocery shopping turned into an adventure. Georgian markets are lively, full of fresh produce, and vendors who, even if they don’t speak English, will make sure you get exactly what you need—sometimes with extra fruit thrown in for free.
Final Thoughts: A Place That Redefines Expectations
Traveling to Georgia alone was one of the best decisions I’ve made. It challenged my assumptions, introduced me to some of the kindest people I’ve met, and showed me that safety, affordability, and a high quality of life can all coexist in one place. For anyone looking for a destination that blends old-world charm with modern convenience, Georgia is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.
