Tbilisi Marathon 2024: Running for Fitness and Crypto Growth
| Living in Georgia | 34 seen
On September 22, 2024, I joined thousands of runners for the annual Tbilisi Marathon.
It was a bright, bit cloudy, lively day in the city, and this year, I ran the 10K race alongside the team from Caucasus Translations. As always, I was proud to represent my hedge fund, TerraMatris, sporting the fund’s T-shirt throughout the run.
Although my finish time was a bit slower than last year (1 hour 13 minutes, though it is disputable as my fitness app showed 1 hour and 3 minutes), the real story for me was the astonishing growth of TerraMatris. Since its inception, the fund has grown an incredible 44 times! Running the marathon gave me a moment to reflect on the journey—balancing fitness, family, and finance, all while watching our fund rise in value over the past year. Isn’t that amazing?
It was also a special day for our family, as our little one took part in the kids' run, making it an even more memorable event. The Tbilisi Marathon has always been about community and perseverance, and this year was no exception.
Running with the support of friends, colleagues, and family added another layer of joy to the experience.
While my time on the…
Hotel Serodani Near Telavi
| Hotel reviews | 26 seen
At the start of September 2024, during our annual trip to the Tsinandali Music Festival, trip was organized by our company Caucasus Translations, we had the pleasure of staying at Hotel Serodani near Telavi. This hotel provided the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and Georgian hospitality, making our festival experience even more memorable.
Hotel Serodani is conveniently located near Telavi, just 2.9 km away from the historic King Erekle II Palace. Its prime location offers easy access to various attractions in the Kakheti region, including the stunning Gremi Citadel, which is only 20 km away. This made it an ideal base for exploring the area's cultural and historical sights.
The hotel features rooms equipped with air conditioning, a private bathroom, a flat-screen TV, and a seating area. We particularly enjoyed the balconies, offering scenic views, including the mountains in some units. Each room is designed with comfort in mind, providing all the essentials for a relaxing stay, such as a desk, fresh linens, and towels. The 24-hour front desk and private check-in and check-out services ensured a smooth experience throughout our stay.
…
Georgian Vegetarian Cuisine: Top Dishes You Should Try in Tbilisi
| Living in Georgia | 303 seen
Georgia, known for its rich culinary traditions, offers a diverse array of vegetarian dishes that are both delicious and satisfying. Despite being famous for its meat-heavy recipes, Georgian cuisine has a surprising variety of plant-based options.
If you're a vegetarian traveling to Tbilisi or simply looking to explore new flavors, this curated list of top Georgian vegetarian dishes will take you on a flavorful journey. Plus, I’ll share some of the best restaurants in Tbilisi where you can enjoy these dishes.
1. Khachapuri (Cheese Bread)One of Georgia's most iconic dishes, Khachapuri, is a must-try for any visitor. This cheese-filled bread comes in various forms, with the Adjarian Khachapuri being the most famous. It’s shaped like a boat, filled with melted cheese, and topped with an egg and a pat of butter. While not vegan, it's a favorite among vegetarians for its rich and hearty taste.
Where to Try:
- Machakhela – This chain restaurant offers a wide variety of Khachapuri styles.
- Retro – Known for its authentic Adjarian Khachapuri, it’s a local favorite.
Amilakhvari Castle: A Hidden Gem in the Kaspi Region
| Tourism objects | 82 seen
During a recent day trip around the Kaspi region in Georgia, I had the pleasure of visiting the historic Amilakhvari Castle, thanks to a recommendation from a German friend who joined us for the journey. Nestled in the serene landscape of central Georgia, this castle offers a fascinating glimpse into the country’s rich history, and it turned out to be a highlight of our trip.
Amilakhvari Castle, though not as widely known as some of Georgia's other fortresses, holds its own charm and significance. Built in the medieval period, the castle once served as a stronghold for the Amilakhvari family, a prominent noble house in Georgian history. The structure, though partially in ruins, still carries the grandeur of its past, with towering walls, defensive towers, and a sense of mystery that beckons visitors to explore.
Our six-year-old daughter was particularly taken with the hidden stairs within the castle. As we wandered through the labyrinthine passages, she let her imagination run wild, envisioning secret rooms, treasure troves, and daring escapes from ancient enemies. The castle, with its partially concealed pathways and staircases, seemed almost designed to spark the…
August 2024 Stock Portfolio Update ($9,248)
| Stock Portfolio | 161 seen
At the end of August 2024, the total value of our stock portfolio was USD 9,248 (€8,360 ). What is about 5% decrease or USD -478 loss, if compared to the previous month. Fundamental mistake with options trade on INTC stock took us there.
Just like previous month, also August we spent some time in Latvia, some time in Georgia. At the start of August we took a short few days trip to Croatia, staying in town of Omiš celebrating my 39 birthday. Awesome.
You can read mora bout our adventures in Omiš, Croatia here: Top Family-Friendly Things to Do in Omiš, Croatia: Beaches, Dining, and Adventure or see my video: Birthday in Croatia
Now back to the stock portfolio
The decrease in the stock portfolio comes from the market appreciation itself and additionally from options trades, while small part of the growth can be attributed to the dividends.
One of my short-term goals is to grow our portfolio to USD 10,000. With USD 752 to go, I believe this target could be crashed already this Fall, especially if we recover just form a few options trades, but you never know, market can take a steep correction.
The main longer-term goal for…
Top Family-Friendly Things to Do in Omiš, Croatia: Beaches, Dining, and Adventure
| Travel guides | 94 seen
At the start of August 2024, my family and I embarked on a memorable journey to Omiš, Croatia, to celebrate my 39th birthday. This trip was a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Adriatic coast.
Our journey began with a Carpatair flight from Riga to Split, a convenient option that allowed us to reach our destination with ease. The flight was smooth, and the excitement of celebrating my birthday in a new place added to the anticipation.
We had prebooked an apartment in Omiš for around EUR 600, a decision that turned out to be just right for our needs. The town of Omiš, with its rich history and beautiful beaches, offered the perfect setting for our stay. Our apartment was cozy, well-equipped, and just a short walk from the beach—ideal for a family looking to relax and enjoy the sun.
We decided to spend all our days in Omiš, soaking up the sun and enjoying the laid-back atmosphere of the town. The local beaches were a highlight, offering crystal-clear waters and plenty of space to relax and tan. The warm Mediterranean climate made it easy to unwind, and the scenic views of the surrounding mountains added to the…
Kavtiskhevi Zoroastrian Temple
| Tourism objects | 79 seen
Sometimes, the most memorable discoveries come when you least expect them. That’s exactly what happened when I stumbled upon the Kavtiskhevi Zoroastrian Temple, a site that left me in awe and filled me with a tinge of regret for not having my drone with me to capture its full grandeur from above.
The story of how I found this remarkable site began with a simple invitation. I had invited a German friend to a nearby fish restaurant, known for its fresh catch and serene atmosphere. After placing our order, we realized we had about 20-25 minutes before the food would be ready. My friend then mentioned a nearby spot—the Kavtiskhevi Zoroastrian Temple—that he thought might be worth a quick visit. With time to spare, we decided to explore the site while our meal was being prepared.
Reaching the Kavtiskhevi Temple was surprisingly easy. A short drive and a brief walk brought us to the ruins, where I was immediately struck by the aura of mystery that surrounded the place. The ruins themselves were more expansive than I had anticipated, with various structures and remnants that hinted at its historical significance. The experience reminded me of visiting the famous Erebuni…
A Family Guide to Borjomi: Hiking Trails and Sulfur Bath Tips
| | 51 seen
As summer came to a close, we continued our family's tradition of visiting Borjomi. This year marked yet another memorable trip at the end of August 2024, reaffirming our love for this beautiful Georgian town. Visiting Borjomi at least twice a year has become a cherished routine, a piece of life that we look forward to, blending relaxation, adventure, and the joy of family time.
This time, we found a unique little apartment, perched on top of a garage. It was a charming, cozy space that offered just what we needed—a comfortable place to relax after our daily adventures. Its unusual setting added a touch of novelty to our stay, making it feel even more special. Price we paid for our stay GEL 80.
One of the highlights of our trip was a day dedicated to hiking. We started by driving up to the Panorama Wheel, where we parked our car. The view from there is always breathtaking, offering a sweeping perspective of the Borjomi Valley. From the Panorama Wheel, we set off on a hike toward the sulfur baths—a route we've come to enjoy for its blend of natural beauty and tranquility.
The trails were peaceful, with the late summer sun filtering through the trees, casting…
Birthday in Croatia
| Travel guides | 51 seen
I'm thrilled to announce that our latest travel movie, "Birthday in Croatia," is now live! In just 3 minutes, you'll join us on a whirlwind adventure filled with unforgettable moments and stunning scenery.
Our journey begins in Tbilisi, where we embark on an exciting trip that first takes us to Riga. From there, we make a quick detour to Courland, where we get hands-on and install a window—an unexpected but satisfying stop on our way. The fun continues as we throw a hotpool party, surrounded by friends, laughter, and good vibes.
The next morning, we fuel up with a delicious chanterelle omelet for breakfast, setting the tone for the day ahead. Then, it's back to Riga, where we hop on Carpatair and head to our ultimate destination: Split, Croatia.
But the adventure doesn't end there. We spend four short yet unforgettable days in the charming town of Omiš, nestled along the stunning Dalmatian coast. The breathtaking views, the historic streets, and the warm Croatian hospitality made this birthday celebration one for the books.
So, sit back, hit play, and join us on this incredible journey. Don't forget to give a thumbs up and enjoy the video!
Split Airport
| Airports | 34 seen
Split Saint Jerome Airport, also known as Split Airport, is the international airport serving the city of Split, Croatia. It is located 19 km (12 mi) from Split, on the west side of Kaštela Bay, in the town of Kaštela, and extending into the adjacent town of Trogir. It is named after Saint Jerome, the patron saint of Split-Dalmatia County.
At the start of August 2024, I found myself on a Carpatair flight from Riga to Split, ready to celebrate my 39th birthday in the picturesque town of Omiš. This trip marked my first experience traveling to and from Split Airport, and I was pleasantly surprised by the ease and convenience of navigating through this gateway to the Dalmatian coast.
Split Airport (Resnik Airport) is the third busiest in Croatia, serving as a major entry point for tourists heading to the Dalmatian region. The airport itself is relatively small, but it offers all the essential amenities, including duty-free shops, restaurants, and car rental services. It’s located about 24 kilometers west of Split, making it a convenient starting point for anyone looking to explore the region.
Upon landing at Split Airport, I hired private taxi driver straight…
July 2024 Stock Portfolio Update ($9,726)
| Stock Portfolio | 48 seen
At the end of July 2024, the total value of our stock portfolio was USD 9,726 (€9,006 ). What is about 6% increase or USD 553 gain, if compared to the previous month.
Half of the July we spent in Latvia, working with our frame house and having our kiddos 6th birthday, while the rest of the month we spent in Georgia, enjoying Summer, having few road trips with German friends to Dedoplis Tskaro and Latvian friend to Birtvisi Canyon.
Our Latvian Summer house is coming along nicely, most of the interior works are finished, there are left few windows to be installed and some other interior works.
Now back to the stock portfolio
The increase in the stock portfolio comes from the market appreciation itself and additionally from options trades, while small part of the growth can be attributed to the dividends.
One of my short-term goals is to grow our portfolio to USD 10,000. With USD 274 to go, I believe this target could be crashed already this August, especially if we recover just form a few options trades, but you never know, market can take a steep correction.
The main longer-term goal for our portfolio is to…
India Movie (Golden Triangle & GOA)
| Travel guides | 41 seen
Back at the end of December 2023, during Renée's school break, our family embarked on an unforgettable journey to India. Our adventure began with a flight from Tbilisi to New Delhi, the bustling capital of India. New Delhi welcomed us with its rich history and vibrant culture, offering a perfect introduction to our travels.
New Delhi: A Cultural Melting PotIn New Delhi, we explored a myriad of attractions, each narrating a tale from a different era. The Red Fort, a stunning relic of Mughal architecture, and the India Gate, a war memorial, were among the highlights.
The Majestic Taj MahalFrom New Delhi, our journey took us to Agra, home to the iconic Taj Mahal. The sheer beauty of this monument, bathed in the soft glow of the morning sun, left us in awe. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal is a testament to eternal love and architectural brilliance. Walking through its pristine gardens and admiring the intricate marble work was a surreal experience.
Jaipur: The Pink CityNext, we headed to Jaipur, famously known as the Pink City. The city’s rosy hue and regal charm captivated us. We visited the City Palace, which…
Real Estate vs. Bitcoin: A Comparative Analysis of Leveraged Investments
| Real Estate | 45 seen
Recently, I had an interesting conversation with a business associate about leveraging investments in real estate and Bitcoin.
He offered me an opportunity to purchase an apartment in Tbilisi using a bank loan with a 10-year term, requiring a 30% down payment. This essentially creates a leverage ratio of 3x. The idea is to rent out the apartment, which would cover the mortgage payments, a common and popular belief among real estate investors. While I'm not advocating against this approach, it got me thinking about how it compares to leveraging investments in Bitcoin, where the leverage can be significantly higher.
As the founder of a successful crypto hedge fund, Terramatris, I often explore various investment strategies. This particular offer in Tbilisi, a market I am quite familiar with, prompted me to compare real estate with Bitcoin investments. Although in the crypto market, leverage can go up to 10x, for a fair comparison, I will apply the same 3x leverage to both real estate and Bitcoin investments. Let's break down the numbers and see which investment strategy might be more profitable under similar conditions.
Real Estate Investment…
Frame House in Latvia: Outdoor Patio, Inner Walls, and More
| Frame House | 114 seen
As June came to an end, our family embarked on a journey from Tbilisi to Latvia, skipping Renee's school year for the last week and focus on our frame house project. Here's a glimpse into our busy but rewarding time working on the house.
We left Tbilisi with excitement and anticipation, knowing that a lot of work awaited us in Latvia. Skipping a week of Renee's school was a calculated decision, as we wanted to make the most of this opportunity to push our frame house project closer to completion.
Our first major task was finishing the outdoor patio. This space is crucial for us as it extends our living area and provides a beautiful spot to relax and enjoy the surrounding nature. We installed decking, ensuring a sturdy and aesthetically pleasing foundation.
Building Inner WallsInside the house, we focused on building a few inner walls. These walls are essential for creating defined living spaces and ensuring privacy. It was a meticulous process, involving precise measurements and careful construction.
The sense of accomplishment we felt after seeing the walls take shape was immense.
Installing the WCInstalling the WC was another…
Wine with Friends Night in Tbilisi: A Perfect Blend of Networking and Tasting
| Living in Georgia | 163 seen
Yesterday, I had the pleasure of attending a delightful wine-tasting event organized by my American friend, Colin. The evening was set in the charming ambiance of a wine gallery located at Irakli Abashidze 64. The event brought together a vibrant mix of expatriates from various industries, predominantly startups and founders, creating an excellent opportunity for networking and socializing.
The wine gallery on Irakli Abashidze 64 is an exquisite venue that exudes both elegance and warmth. Its cozy, inviting atmosphere set the perfect backdrop for a night dedicated to the appreciation of fine wines and engaging conversations. The gallery's carefully curated selection of wines offered a delightful journey through Georgia's rich viticultural heritage.
As we arrived, I was greeted by a familiar and friendly crowd of expats, some of whom I had the pleasure of knowing from previous encounters. The diversity of industries represented was impressive, with attendees hailing from tech startups, software developers, crypto traders, hedge funds, professionals from translation industry and various other entrepreneurial ventures. This mix of professionals created an enriching…
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As summer came to a close, we continued our family's tradition of visiting Borjomi. This year marked yet another memorable trip at the end of August 2024, reaffirming our love for this beautiful Georgian town. Visiting Borjomi at least twice a year has become a cherished routine, a piece of life that we look forward to, blending relaxation,…
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