Each project I’ve been a part of always provides me with insights based on the experiences I have. It’s not just because these projects take place in various countries, each rich in traditions and experiences, but because every project offers authenticity and value to me as a person. 

This time, my destination was Georgia, and let me start by saying, “This was quite an experience!”

Georgia as a Place: Diversity and Outstanding Cuisine

Georgia is a place that draws you in with its contrasts and deep-rooted cultural richness. Although my time there was brief, this place gave me impressions of being a country at the crossroads of Europe and Asia—yet fiercely independent, with a spirit all its own. I remember one conversation that left a lasting respect: someone told me with heartfelt pride, “We are neither Asian nor European. We are independent.” This deep pride in their country, history, and identity runs strong among Georgians and shapes their way of life.

Each region reveals its own unique flavors, customs, and stories, creating the feeling of a cultural quilt, stitched together from diverse traditions. I may have only glimpsed a fraction of what Georgia offers, but it was enough to know that this is a place I must return to, to uncover more of its beauty and spirit. Georgians hold a profound love for their land, a rich cultural heritage, and an unwavering sense of self. This connection to who they are as a people is strong  through every part of life here—from age-old traditions and compelling stories to the warmth of their hospitality and the strength of their belonging.

One of the highlights of Georgia is, without a doubt, its cuisine. Georgian food is not only delicious but also carries a history that reflects the spirit of its people—warm, hospitable, and full of respect. The dishes are rich in flavor, with spices and herbs that give each bite a unique depth. Staples like khachapuri (cheese-filled bread) and khinkali (dumplings filled with seasoned meat or mushrooms) are not just meals but experiences in themselves, reflecting Georgia’s approach to food as something to be savored and shared.

My personal favorite, however, has to be nigvziani badrijani—eggplant rolls filled with a rich walnut paste. These delicate rolls combine tender slices of eggplant with a creamy, spiced walnut filling, and each bite is a burst of flavor, balanced with hints of garlic, coriander, and a touch of sweetness from pomegranate seeds sprinkled on top. This dish perfectly describes how I see Georgian cuisine and their love for fresh ingredients, and ability to transform simple elements into something truly unforgettable.

Every meal here is a celebration, often accompanied by traditional toasts that go beyond just raising a glass—they’re moments of heartfelt sharing, honoring friendships, family, and the joys of life. 

The Power of Experiences and Connections

In this journey, I want to focus on peace and people.

Let me start with a bit of background about the project and how it made me feel. Imagine a place where everything and nothing coexist, a place where everyone should forget about internet connections, but also a place where you can form the best connections in real life. Here, every problem just seems to disappear, and you can truly understand the phrase, “living a simple life.”

As you can probably imagine, the project was set in the middle of nowhere, where the nearest shop was itself an experience and where the water could decide on its own whether it would work. We were doing simple work—farm work—which was exciting for me at every moment, as it was the first time I had ever driven a tractor (maybe only for a minute, but still…). My favorite task, though, was peeling nuts. Nothing special at first, but with an incredibly warm and peaceful approach, this experience showed how much we can do together. When we started it was a full room with nuts, but with every day we could see step by step results and getting closer to finishing. I enjoyed every bit of this work with conversations, music and much more.  

It was exactly the kind of place I needed, and I feel truly blessed to have had this experience. Even thinking about it brings a huge smile to my face, as so many wonderful moments come to mind: sitting by the fire and watching the stars, breathing in the fresh, cool mountain air, hiking up to see the sunrise breaking over the peaks and having the most tasty tea, going to old lady, who gave us fresh milk and eggs, standing by the horses while listening to the quiet sounds of nature and my favorite spotify playlist of all time, or simply enjoying the small things—like late-night snacks shared among others or the bliss of a hot shower after a day’s work.

It’s true that I see life through experiences—the more diverse, the better. The same goes for people; in the long course of life, it’s incredibly valuable to meet as many different people as possible, especially those you want to keep close. Equally important is the ability to understand and communicate with people who may differ from what is typically “accepted” or “normal,” and to see this from others’ perspectives as well. Being able to set aside one’s own convictions and rebuild one’s “house of thoughts” with a foundation of understanding and an open heart is essential.

This project reminded me that sometimes, the simplest experiences and the most heartfelt connections are the ones that leave the greatest impact. It’s not always about the places that have the most to offer in terms of luxury or entertainment. Sometimes, it’s about quiet mornings, shared meals, and the freedom to just be—to savor each moment as it is. This journey to Georgia taught me that, no matter where you are, there is beauty in simplicity and fulfillment in connecting with others. And these, I believe, are the experiences that truly stay with us.

So, as I close this chapter, I look forward to the next adventure, carrying these cherished memories with me. I will hold a firm belief in the power of real connections and a return ticket to Georgia, where I can reconnect with its stunning beauty, its welcoming people, and the  essence that makes it so special.

I miss this experience. 

but most of all…