TASTE OF

TBILISI

TBILISI, GEORGIA

EMBRACE ADVENTURE

Discover a land forged in conflict and war, assailed but unbroken, rich in culture and heart. From the heights of the Caucasus mountains to the lush vineyards below, journey along the old Silk Road to the country that touches both Asia and Europe.

Immediately preceding the Board Meeting and Seminar in Baku, Azerbaijan, Chairs Ryan & Kristy Rans take you into the heart of the Caucasus to enjoy CEO crafted education sessions on topics such as ancient origins, Georgian invasions, and the country’s connections to NATO and the EU.

QVEVRI

Georgia is proud to acknowledge they are not only the first Europeans but also the birthplace of winemaking. Their unique Qvevri tradition of wine manufacturing dates back more than 8,000 years and is still practiced to this day.

SOMETHING WORTH

Traditional dance is an integral part of their national identity, from depictions of courtship and war to a celebration of feminine beauty and grace.

FIGHTING FOR

Georgian polyphonic singing typically combines three distinct melodies woven together in harmony and dissonance and is as charming as it is unique.

FIERCE
FEMININITY

The Mother of Georgia statue is the embodiment of the strength and hospitality of the nation’s women. Wine for her friends, a sword for her foes. Historically, Georgian women have fought alongside the men in battle. Today, women hold 18 percent of the seats in parliament and Salome Zourabichvili serves as president. Georgia proudly continues the long-held tradition of honoring its women.

Epicenter of

CONFLICT

Once a nexus of trade along the Silk Road, it has been said that whoever controls Tbilisi controls the Caucasus region entirely. Over the centuries, myriad empires have fought to claim the nation as their own.

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STANDING STRONG

Genghis Khan’s generals once defeated its armies in pursuit of an escaped enemy. Alexander the Great passed through on his way to build an empire south of the Caucasus. General Pompey clashed with them during his war with Armenia. This long history of struggle has forged a nation of unbreakable souls, fiercely proud of the culture they’ve fought to preserve.

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YOUNG DEMOCRACY

The Republic of Georgia adopted its constitution in 1921. The younger generation is hoping to elect to parliament those who, like them, are pro-West, yet this outcome is far from guaranteed. Likewise, their efforts to join the EU have been stymied due to political conflict, leaving the future of their aspirations uncertain.

City of

TBILISI

Built atop a mountain where the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers meet, this early medieval church has escaped well over a millennium of political and religious conflicts almost completely unscathed. The story dates back to the 4th century when a wooden cross was erected within a pagan temple. Drawing countless pilgrims from across the Caucasus due to its renowned miraculous powers, the cross’s remains are the foundation upon which Jvari Monastery now stands.

georgian national

Museum

The National Museum consists of around a dozen various museums and contains centuries-old artifacts, including a skull exhibit dating back to the beginnings of European civilization. Dig deeper into the history and culture of the region as you discover relics of the past, then join a vibrant conversation, facilitated by an expert.

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Freedom Square

Enjoy the floor-to-ceiling windows with spectacular city views at Marriott’s Luxury Collection Hotel, designed in the rich colors, textures, and geometric patterns ubiquitous to Georgia, and featuring local artwork throughout.

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rustaveli

Theatre

The Rustaveli Theatre reflects the indomitable spirit of Georgia. Though it bears the scars of invasion—its stunning frescoes were whitewashed while under foreign rule—it still emanates an immense beauty. Experience a mesmerizing performance of traditional dance and meet the performers in one of the country’s oldest theaters.

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svetitskhoveli

Cathedral

The burial place of kings, and said to house the mantle of Christ, this 11th century Orthodox church has survived the vandalism of many powerful conquering forces. Though numerous frescoes have been destroyed, it remains an important cultural landmark and is a masterpiece of medieval construction.

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the old capital

Walk the streets of Mtskheta, an economic and political hub of Iberia since the 5th century and the birthplace of Christianity in Georgia. Declared the Holy City by the Georgian Orthodox Church, picturesque vistas and several UNESCO World Heritage sites leave you feeling as though you have stepped back in time.

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HANDS-ON

Stroll through one of the most charming city centers in the world, Old Town Tbilisi. A mixing pot of culture, meandering lanes and cobbled streets, ancient homes, and unusual architecture awaits. Get hands-on experience baking your own bread like a local.

02.

FEEL THE PULSE

Filled with cafes, bars, art galleries, and the pulse of the city’s social and nightlife with a laid-back attitude, the narrow, pedestrian-only Shardeni Street is always alive with activity. From wine tastings to live music, there’s always something happening.

TASTE

Set in a cozy apartment, this family-owned restaurant offers up traditional 19th-century Georgian cuisine and an impressive selection of Qvevri wines. Try their Walnut-Stuffed Mountain Trout or the Pelamushi Pie.

SHUSHABANDI

Housed within a historic winery in the heart of Tbilisi, Shushabandi is a popular destination offering modern Georgian fare. Featuring a large terrace and an even larger wine list, relish an exceptional meal in the homey atmosphere.

KETO & KOTE

Blending traditional recipes with modern preparation techniques, Keto & Kote creates a magical culinary experience for diners. It is named after a movie, parts of which were filmed on site.

ZODIAQO

Take in the vibrant walls and the artwork at Zodiaqo as you sample khachapuri, khinkali, and other classic Georgian fare. Delight your senses as you take in the tastes and colors of the region.

CHAIRS

RYAN & KRISTY RANS

DATES

1-4 June 2025

EVENT SIZE

Limited to 40

ACCOMMODATIONS

Paragraph Freedom Square Hotel

STAFF

Lauren Turosik

lauren.turosik@ceo.org

+1 202 813 1871

AIRPORTS

Tbilisi International Airport (TBS)

PRICE PER PERSON:

US $13,000 (double occupancy)

US $13,800 (single occupancy)

(includes US $1,230 in hotel accommodations)

Open to CEO members and spouses/partners, or an adult child (age 25+)

ADD-ON: EARLY ARRIVAL ADVENTURE

Board a helicopter bound for the spectacular Caucasus mountains and fly past Russian-occupied territory. Visit the remote village of Juta where existence for the locals has historically been harsh. Enjoy a meal as you take in the views and experience the culture of the Khevsur people.

Limited to only 12 people.

1-4 JUNE 2025

Seats are very limited for this thrilling adventure. Save your spot today.

This event includes mountainous terrain and is recommended for adventurers without mobility concerns.

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