We arrived in the misty mountains of Rize before darkness fell. Clouds floating in the distance and the finest green tea plantations stretched out before our eyes like a deep green sea. The sweetest part of a trip for grown-ups was savoring peace and calm without hurrying, feeling the scent of moist tea in the air.
The edge of the Black Sea and the evening lights
We crossed the border and passed through the Georgian city of Batumi. This city on the Black Sea coast welcomed us with its majestic, modern buildings and bright evening lights. Although it was only a short time passing through, the sound of the sea waves and the city's neon-lit streets brought a new rhythm to the trip.
The mysterious atmosphere of the old town
Arriving in Tbilisi, it feels as if time has stood still. Walking the stone streets of the old town at the foot of the Narikala execution fortress, the ancient architecture and carved wooden-plank balconies are captivating. In the evening we dined on Georgia's famous red wine and khinkali and immersed ourselves in the city's deep culture.
Sulfur baths and freedom
We relieved our fatigue at Abanotubani, the historic sulfur bath complex. In this place with centuries of history we washed away the tiredness of body and mind and felt true peace. Tbilisi was not just a beautiful city, but a charming place that leaves warm memories in the heart.
Return to the heights of the mountains
Back in Rize, we spent two days in a quiet wooden house high in the mountains. Here there was no city bustle or stress at all. They were days of simply listening to our inner selves, listening to the majestic nature and the sound of waterfalls, and finding true relaxation.
An ending that connects two continents
The final stop of the trip — Istanbul, on the shores of the Bosphorus Strait. Although we had only a single day in this great city connecting Asia and Europe, its grandeur, the taste of its tea and the sea breeze made our trip perfect. The memory of walking this path where Asian nature and European culture intertwine will stay in our hearts forever.
Author: Travel GiL