As a business traveler, you want to make sure you leave a lasting impression on your colleagues and clients. One way to do that is to bring back a unique and thoughtful souvenir from your travels. Tbilisi, the capital city of Georgia, offers a wide range of souvenirs that are perfect for business partners. From traditional handicrafts to modern design pieces, here are the best souvenirs to bring home from Tbilisi.
Handmade Ceramics
Georgia has a long tradition of pottery-making, and Tbilisi is home to many talented ceramic artists. Handmade ceramics are a great souvenir for business partners because they are both beautiful and practical. You can find everything from decorative plates and bowls to coffee mugs and wine glasses. Each piece is unique and reflects the artist's personal style. You can even have a piece custom-made for your business partner, adding a personal touch to your gift.
One of the best places to find handmade ceramics in Tbilisi is at the Dry Bridge Market. This outdoor market is a treasure trove of antiques, handmade crafts, and traditional textiles. You can find everything from vintage jewelry to Soviet-era memorabilia. The market is open every day except Monday, and it's a great place to spend a few hours browsing and haggling with vendors.
Georgian Wine
Georgia is one of the oldest wine-producing countries in the world, with a history that dates back over 8,000 years. Georgian wine is known for its unique taste and production method, which involves fermenting the wine in clay vessels called qvevri. Bringing back a bottle of Georgian wine is a great way to introduce your business partners to the country's rich cultural heritage.
There are many wineries in Georgia that offer tours and tastings, but if you're short on time, you can find a great selection of Georgian wines at Vinotheca, a wine shop located in the heart of Tbilisi. The shop offers a wide range of Georgian wines, as well as a selection of international wines. The knowledgeable staff can help you choose the perfect bottle for your business partner and even provide advice on food pairings.
Traditional Textiles
Georgia has a long tradition of textile-making, and Tbilisi is home to many skilled weavers and embroiderers. Traditional textiles, such as woolen blankets and silk scarves, are a great souvenir for business partners because they are both beautiful and practical. They also make great conversation starters, as you can share the story of how they were made and the cultural significance behind them.
One of the best places to find traditional textiles in Tbilisi is at the Meidan Bazaar. Located in the heart of Old Tbilisi, this market is a great place to find handmade ceramics, textiles, and jewelry. You can also sample traditional Georgian sweets and snacks. The market is open every day, and it's a great place to soak up the local culture and atmosphere.
Handmade Jewelry
Georgian jewelry is known for its intricate designs and high-quality craftsmanship. From traditional silver earrings to modern gold necklaces, there is something for every taste and style. Handmade jewelry is a great souvenir for business partners because it is both unique and personal. You can even have a piece custom-made for your colleague or client, adding a personal touch to your gift.
One of the best places to find handmade jewelry in Tbilisi is at the Gold Market, located in the Old Town. The market is home to many skilled jewelers who create beautiful pieces using traditional techniques. You can find everything from delicate silver earrings to bold statement necklaces. The market is open every day, and it's a great place to find a unique and meaningful gift for your business partner.
Georgian Spices and Tea
Georgia is known for its flavorful cuisine, which relies heavily on herbs and spices. Bringing back a selection of Georgian spices and teas is a great way to introduce your business partners to the country's culinary traditions. You can find everything from traditional blends like khmeli suneli (a mix of spices including coriander, fenugreek, and marigold) to modern twists like blueberry tea.
One of the best places to find Georgian spices and teas in Tbilisi is at the Dezerter Bazaar, located in the Avlabari district. The market is home to many spice vendors who offer a wide range of products, from dried herbs and spices to tea blends and honey. The market is open every day, and it's a great place to explore the local flavors and aromas.
Modern Design Pieces
Tbilisi is home to a growing community of young designers who are creating modern and innovative pieces that reflect the country's cultural heritage. From fashion accessories to home decor, there is a wide range of modern design pieces that make great souvenirs for business partners. These pieces are not only beautiful and unique, but they also showcase the creativity and talent of Georgia's young designers.
One of the best places to find modern design pieces in Tbilisi is at the Tbilisi Mall. The mall has a number of shops that specialize in fashion accessories, home decor, and other modern design items. You can find everything from minimalist jewelry to colorful ceramics. The mall is open every day, and it's a great place to find a unique and contemporary gift for your business partner.
Where to Find Souvenirs in Tbilisi
Tbilisi has a number of markets and shops where you can find souvenirs to bring back for your business partners. In addition to the Dry Bridge Market, Meidan Bazaar, Gold Market, Dezerter Bazaar, and Tbilisi Mall, here are a few other places to shop:
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Fabrika: This former Soviet sewing factory has been transformed into a trendy cultural center that includes shops, cafes, and bars. The shops offer a range of modern design pieces, from clothing and accessories to home decor and art.
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Shardeni Street: This pedestrian street in the heart of Old Tbilisi is lined with shops selling traditional handicrafts, jewelry, and textiles. It's a great place to find unique and authentic souvenirs.
Final Thoughts
Bringing back a thoughtful and unique souvenir from your travels is a great way to show your business partners that you appreciate them. From traditional handicrafts to modern design pieces, Tbilisi offers a wide range of souvenirs that are perfect for business partners. Whether you choose handmade ceramics or Georgian wine, your colleagues and clients are sure to appreciate the personal touch you've added to your gift. So next time you're in Tbilisi, be sure to set aside some time to explore the local markets and shops and find the perfect souvenir for your business partner.