Blog Archive: February 2025

Dedoplis Tskaro / Eagle Canyon / Big Shiraki (2024)

28 February, 2025 | Living in Georgia | 33 seen

Our summer journey through Georgia's hidden treasures has been an unforgettable adventure! We began by hiking the stunning Eagle Canyon near Dedoplistskaro, a limestone marvel home to majestic birds of prey. The 1 km trail led us through breathtaking landscapes, offering glimpses of eagles' nests and rare flora.

In Sighnaghi, we indulged in authentic Georgian cuisine at Pheasant's Tears restaurant. Chef Gia Rokashvili crafts dishes inspired by local markets, ensuring a fresh and delightful dining experience. The cozy ambiance and delectable flavors made our visit truly special.

Our curiosity led us to the Big Shiraki abandoned Soviet airfield, a relic from the 1950s nestled in the Georgian steppe. Once home to the 178th Guards Fighter Aviation Regiment, the airfield now serves as grazing land for local farmers. Exploring this historical site offered a unique glimpse into Georgia's past.

We also ventured to Mount Elia, a site of spiritual significance adorned with a charming monastery. The panoramic views from the mountaintop were simply breathtaking, providing a serene conclusion to our journey.

Join us as we recount these experiences and more in our latest blog post, capturing the essence of Georgia's hidden gems.

How to Install Drupal 11 with Nginx, PHP-FPM 8.3, MySQL, phpMyAdmin on Ubuntu 24.04 - Linode Guide

26 February, 2025 | Servers | 1,002 seen

In this article, you will learn how to set up a webserver for serving Drupal 11 websites running with Nginx, PHP-FPM 8.3, MySQL, and phpMyAdmin on Ubuntu 24.04

For the following tutorial, I used very much the information from my previous guide with Ubuntu 23.04, but I decided to rewrite it for Ubuntu 24.04 version as it is shipped with php8.4 and also php8.4 version and will work with Drupal 11 (most probably with previous versions too)

Prerequisites

• Ubuntu 24.04
• Root privileges.

You can get a cheap VPS starting at just $5/mo from Linode. That's what I did - bought a new nanode from Linode

Literally, in a couple of seconds, the new server was up and running - that's what I love about sticking with Linode for years

Follow the basic security guide, see: Securing Your Server

I will use Terminal from MAC to access  over SSH (Windows users could use Putty)

Secure your server

Create the user, replacing example_user with your desired username. You’ll then be asked to assign the user a password:

Add the user to the sudo group so you’ll have administrative privileges:

Disallow root logins over SSH. This requires all SSH connections to be by non-root users. Once a limited user account is connected, administrative privileges are accessible either by using sudo or changing to a root shell using su -.

Under # Authetification section change to

Update the Ubuntu system

sudo apt-get update

Install Nginx and PHP-FPM

Install Nginx with the following apt command:

Next, install php8.1-fpm with php-gd extension that is required by Drupal core:

Configure Nginx and PHP-FPM

In this step, we will configure Nginx to use php-fpm to serve HTTP requests for PHP pages. Go to the php-fpm directory "/etc/php/8.1/fpm" and edit the "php.ini" file:

Un-comment the cgi.fix_pathinfo line and change the value to "0"

When using nano command you can use CTRL+W to locate that line. Once changed press CTRL+O to save changes and CTRL+X to exit from nano editor

Now we should modify the default Nginx virtual host configuration. Edit the "default" file and enable the php-fpm directive.

Un-comment  location ~ \.php$ section, so it look like this

CTRL+O and CTRL+X

Then test the Nginx configuration with the command "nginx -t" to ensure that it is valid:

If there is no error, restart nginx and the php-fpm service:

PHP Info file (Optional)

Next, test that php-fpm is working properly with Nginx by creating new PHP info file in the web directory "/var/www/html"

Visit the info.php file at the server IP  in a web browser.

Configure the VirtualHost for Drupal

We will install Drupal 11 in the directory "/srv/www/reinisfischer.com". Please replace my domain name in your installation with the domain name of the website that you want to use this Drupal installation for. So let's create the directory:

Paste the Nginx configuration for Drupal 11:

Gael raised some security concerns (see comment below). I’ve updated the server block to include additional protections — it may not be perfect, but it’s definitely tighter now.

CTRL+O and CTRL + X

The Drupal virtual host file has been created, now we have to activate it by creating a symlink to the file in the "sites-enabled" directory:

Test the Nginx configuration and if there are no errors restart Nginx:

Install MySQL

Warning: As of July 2022, an error will occur when you run the mysql_secure_installation script without some further configuration. The reason is that this script will attempt to set a password for the installation’s root MySQL account but, by default on Ubuntu installations, this account is not configured to connect using a password.

See: How To Install MySQL on Ubuntu 20.04 for mysql_secure_installation fix

Prior to July 2022, this script would silently fail after attempting to set the root account password and continue on with the rest of the prompts. However, as of this writing, the script will return the following error after you enter and confirm a password:

Output

... Failed! Error: SET PASSWORD has no significance for user 'root'@'localhost' as the authentication method used doesn't store authentication data in the MySQL server. Please consider using ALTER USER instead if you want to change authentication parameters. New password:

This will lead the script into a recursive loop which you can only get out of by closing your terminal window.

Because the mysql_secure_installation script performs a number of other actions that are useful for keeping your MySQL installation secure, it’s still recommended that you run it before you begin using MySQL to manage your data. To avoid entering this recursive loop, though, you’ll need to first adjust how your root MySQL user authenticates.

First, open up the MySQL prompt: 

Then run the following ALTER USER command to change the root user’s authentication method to one that uses a password. The following example changes the authentication method to mysql_native_password:

After making this change, exit the MySQL prompt:

Following that, you can run the mysql_secure_installation script without issue.

Install phpMyAdmin

Hit ESC when the installation prompts you for auto-configuration because there is no option for Nginx.

Make an easily accessible symlink

Install and Configure Drupal

Enter the directory that we created earlier and download Drupal with wget. I'm using the latest Drupal 11.1.2. release as of February 10, 2025, make sure you are downloading the latest version by visiting the Drupal download page and writing down the last numbers (version)

Now visit your Drupal site in the web Browser, you should see the similar screen

Now, using phpmyadmin login into MySQL and setup database

Optional: How to edit hosts file on Mac

from the terminal 

sudo nano /etc/hosts

add your IP address pointing to the domain name to test before the DNS zone gets updated

Kakhaberi Restaurant: A Culinary Gem Near Bibliani

24 February, 2025 | Restaurant reviews | 46 seen

In early January 2025, during a weekend trip to Gudauri, we stumbled upon Kakhaberi restaurant near Bibliani. 

What a discovery it turned out to be! Nestled along the route to the mountains, this place is a treasure trove of authentic Georgian cuisine, offering a delightful mix of great food, efficient service, and genuine hospitality.

Our experience was memorable from the moment we stepped in. The food was not only amazing but also served promptly—a blessing when traveling with a young child. The staff, fluent in English, made communication effortless and added to the welcoming atmosphere.

For myself, I decided to try 50 ml of their locally made brandy, only to be generously served what felt like at least 120 ml. The taste? Absolutely delightful, especially when mixed with Georgian lemonade—a unique pairing I highly recommend. Meanwhile, our kiddo enjoyed a feast of French fries, kebab, and her all-time favorite, tkemali (Georgian plum sauce). Every dish was fresh, flavorful, and prepared with care.

On our way back to Tbilisi, we couldn’t resist making another stop at Kakhaberi. This time, I ordered their homemade brandy for takeaway—an incredible bargain at just GEL 15. Conveniently, the restaurant accepts VISA cards, making payment hassle-free.

Kakhaberi stands out for its true and authentic Georgian cuisine, served in a warm and inviting setting. Whether you’re heading to Gudauri or simply exploring the area, this spot is a must-visit. It’s the kind of place you’ll want to return to—just as we did!

Salty Garden & Lisi Lake (2024)

21 February, 2025 | Living in Georgia | 34 seen

The last weekend of April 2024 was filled with nature, good company, and memorable experiences. The journey took us to Salty Garden near Bazaleti Lake, where I met Anastasiya, who was working at the Salty Garden tavern, and later, a hike around Lisi Lake wrapped up the adventure.

Located in the picturesque surroundings of Bazaleti Lake, Salty Garden is a hidden gem perfect for relaxation. The area is known for its tranquil atmosphere, fresh air, and scenic landscapes. The garden itself offers a cozy retreat with charming outdoor seating, organic food, and a peaceful environment, making it an ideal place to unwind. The lake, surrounded by rolling hills, adds to the beauty of the spot, providing opportunities for short walks and photography.

One of the highlights of the weekend was meeting Anastasiya from Latvia, who was working at the Salty Garden tavern. Conversations about travel, culture, and shared experiences enriched the time spent at Salty Garden. The exchange of stories over a delicious meal made the visit even more enjoyable, reinforcing the joy of spontaneous connections while exploring new places.

To end the weekend on an active note, we headed to Lisi Lake for a hike. Located on the outskirts of Tbilisi, Lisi Lake is a popular destination for those looking to escape the city's hustle and bustle. The lake is surrounded by a vast open landscape with walking trails, making it an excellent spot for hiking, jogging, or simply enjoying the view. The fresh air and calm waters created a refreshing atmosphere, providing the perfect setting to reflect on the experiences of the weekend.

This weekend was a perfect mix of relaxation, social encounters, and outdoor exploration. Salty Garden near Bazaleti Lake provided a serene escape, meeting Anastasiya brought an unexpected yet delightful connection, and hiking around Lisi Lake added a touch of adventure. Moments like these remind us of the simple joys of travel and discovery.

How to Install Composer on Ubuntu (24.04) for Easy Drupal Module & Theme Updates

20 February, 2025 | Servers | 250 seen

As a Drupal developer, keeping your modules up to date is crucial for security and performance. To streamline this process, I use Composer—a powerful dependency manager for PHP. It allows me to quickly update Drupal modules without the hassle of manually downloading and configuring each one. In this guide, I will walk you through the process of installing Composer on Ubuntu 24.04.

I typically run Drupal on an Ubuntu-based server with Nginx as the web server. This combination provides excellent performance and stability for hosting Drupal sites. Composer plays a crucial role in managing dependencies efficiently in this environment.

Composer is a dependency management tool for PHP that simplifies the installation and updates of libraries and packages. Instead of manually downloading and integrating each module, Composer automates the process, ensuring you always have the latest stable versions of your dependencies.

Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Composer on Ubuntu 24.04

1. Update Your System

Before installing any new software, ensure your system is up to date by running:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y

2. Install Required Dependencies

Composer requires PHP and other dependencies. Install them using:

sudo apt install php-cli unzip curl -y

3. Download and Install Composer

Run the following commands to install Composer globally:

curl -sS https://getcomposer.org/installer | php sudo mv composer.phar /usr/local/bin/composer

Alternatively, you can use the official installation method:

php -r "copy('https://getcomposer.org/installer', 'composer-setup.php');" php composer-setup.php php -r "unlink('composer-setup.php');"

Move Composer to a global location:

sudo mv composer.phar /usr/local/bin/composer

4. Verify Installation

After installation, verify that Composer is working by running:

composer -V

You should see the version number displayed, confirming a successful installation.

Using Composer for Drupal Module Updates

Once Composer is installed, updating Drupal modules becomes a breeze. Here’s how you can do it:

Using Composer simplifies Drupal module updates, ensuring you always have the latest security patches and features. With just a few commands, you can maintain your Drupal site efficiently and avoid potential compatibility issues. My usual setup involves Ubuntu with Nginx, and Composer integrates seamlessly into this environment, making dependency management straightforward.

Let me know in the comments if you have any questions or need further assistance.

Erisoni Restaurant in Gori

19 February, 2025 | Restaurant reviews | 106 seen

During my recent visit to Gori, I had the pleasure of dining at Restaurant Erisoni, a place I wouldn’t have discovered if it weren’t for a friendly recommendation. The night before, while enjoying a cup of coffee at Georgia Hotel Gold, I struck up a conversation with David, my business partner. As we chatted about things to do in Gori, I asked for some tips on must-visit spots, and without hesitation, David insisted that I should check out Erisoni. He even provided me with precise navigation details, emphasizing that it was a place worth visiting.

Initially, dining at Erisoni wasn’t in our plans, but fate had other ideas. The next morning, as we attempted to get breakfast at the hotel, we realized it wasn’t an option. A quick Google search for breakfast spots in Gori brought up Erisoni once again. Remembering David’s strong recommendation, we decided to give it a try. A short 10-minute drive later, we found ourselves settling in at the restaurant, ready to explore its offerings.

The first thing that stood out was the pricing—reminiscent of Tbilisi’s restaurant scene from 6-7 years ago. The affordability, combined with the authentic taste of local cuisine, made it a delightful experience.

Erisoni captures the essence of Gori’s culinary traditions, and to my surprise, they even serve Ossetian Khachapuri, a rare find in many places.

For anyone visiting Gori, Restaurant Erisoni is a spot worth experiencing. Whether you’re looking for an affordable, delicious meal or simply wish to taste local flavors, this place delivers. If you find yourself in town, take a detour and give it a try—you won’t regret it! Our total bull about 110 GEL. 

Karavela Restaurant: A Cozy Gem Near Tbilisi Sea

17 February, 2025 | Restaurant reviews | 51 seen

For years, we’d been eyeing Karavela, a charming restaurant perched near the Tbilisi Sea. 

The idea of stopping by lingered in our minds, especially during our many drives around the area back in 2019-2020 One memory stands out vividly—driving around the serene waters with our toddler daughter in her baby seat, hoping the gentle motion of the car would lull her to sleep. Each time, we’d search for a decent spot to dine but somehow never made it to Karavela… until early January 2025.

There is a little fish pond with many ducks, we were left to feed them. Quite avesome.

Finally, we decided to give this long-admired restaurant a try, and I’m delighted we did. As a vegetarian who practices intermittent fasting (not eating after 2 PM), my culinary options were limited—but that didn’t diminish my experience. I sipped on a perfectly brewed cup of coffee and enjoyed a refreshing Borjomi, while the rest of the family indulged in the delicious offerings. 

They raved about the dumplings and chicken mcvadi, which were served fresh, flavorful, and piping hot. The aroma alone was enough to make anyone’s mouth water—mmm, pure delight!

One of the standout aspects of Karavela was its pricing. With inflation hitting hard across the board, it was a pleasant surprise to find a restaurant that felt like stepping back in time to 2018 or 2017, at least in terms of affordability. It’s rare these days to dine out and feel like you’re getting exceptional value for money, but Karavela managed to deliver that effortlessly.

The ambiance was equally welcoming, blending a laid-back atmosphere with attentive service. It’s the kind of place where you can sit back, relax, and enjoy good food and company, whether you’re there for a hearty meal or just a quiet moment with a cup of coffee.

For us, Karavela wasn’t just a restaurant visit—it was the culmination of years of curiosity and the creation of new family memories. If you’re near the Tbilisi Sea and searching for a spot that combines great food, reasonable prices, and a cozy setting, Karavela is worth the stop. Whether you’re indulging in their famous dumplings, savoring their grilled delights, or simply enjoying a warm drink, you’ll leave with a smile. We certainly did.

Gori, Uplistsikhe & Mom

14 February, 2025 | Living in Georgia | 58 seen

We kicked off February with a trip to Gori, a city known for its deep historical roots and a connection to one of the most controversial figures of the 20th century—Joseph Stalin. But our journey wasn't just about history; it was a mix of relaxation, local flavors, and a dive into Georgia’s ancient past.

Our base in Gori was the Georgia Gold hotel—don’t let the fancy name fool you, this place is budget-friendly and offers great value. The real highlight? An indoor pool that made it feel like summer, even in the middle of winter. It was the perfect way to unwind before setting out to explore the city.

For a taste of traditional Georgian cuisine at prices that felt like they were frozen in time, we headed to Erisoni. This local gem delivered on both quality and affordability, making it a must-visit spot for anyone passing through Gori.

No visit to Gori is complete without encountering its most famous (or infamous) historical figure—Joseph Stalin. His statue still stands in the city, a reminder of Gori’s unique place in history. While we didn’t linger too long, it’s always interesting to see how different places preserve their past.

The real adventure of the trip took us beyond Gori to Uplistsikhe, an ancient rock-hewn town dating back to the early Iron Age. Walking through its caves, halls, and tunnels felt like stepping into another era. Once a major religious and political center, Uplistsikhe is a striking example of Georgia’s rich history, and the views from the top are absolutely breathtaking.

Stay tuned for more travel stories, and don’t forget to check out the video for the full experience!

Tbilisi Museum of Illusions & Holloseum

13 February, 2025 | Museums | 29 seen

At the start of February, we spent a delightful afternoon exploring the Tbilisi Museum of Illusions and Holloseum. Our little one, having already visited the museum a few weeks prior with her class from the British International School of Tbilisi (BIST), enthusiastically suggested we go as a family. Given her excitement, we couldn’t resist!

While sipping on a late latte at Entree on Marjanishvili, I decided to book a taxi, and soon we were off to the Jewish Quarter of Tbilisi, where the museum is located. The venue, which houses both the Museum of Illusions and the Holloseum, promised an intriguing mix of interactive experiences and digital art exhibits.

Having been to several illusion museums before, I had an idea of what to expect. The Tbilisi Museum of Illusions followed a familiar format—mind-bending rooms, optical tricks, and interactive exhibits designed to challenge perception. While some installations were familiar, they were still fun to engage with, especially for newcomers who hadn't experienced such displays before.

What truly captivated me, however, was the Holloseum. This space featured immersive audiovisual exhibits, and the highlight was the mesmerizing display of Vincent van Gogh’s works. The fusion of light, movement, and classical artwork created a truly enchanting atmosphere. Seeing Van Gogh’s paintings come to life in a digital format, enhanced with a beautifully crafted soundscape, was an unforgettable experience.

For entry to both the Museum of Illusions and the Holloseum, we paid approximately GEL 150 for two adults and one child. While not the cheapest attraction in Tbilisi, it certainly provided a unique and engaging experience.

For seasoned illusion museum visitors, the traditional illusion exhibits may not be groundbreaking. However, they are still well-executed and enjoyable, especially for those encountering such attractions for the first time. The Holloseum, with its impressive digital art displays, was the real standout for me and made the visit absolutely worthwhile.

If you’re looking for a fun and visually captivating experience in Tbilisi, especially with kids, the Museum of Illusions and Holloseum is definitely worth checking out!

Colva Beach: Golden Sands and Tranquility in Goa

10 February, 2025 | Tourism objects | 29 seen

Colva Beach, located in South Goa, is known for its expansive golden sands and tranquil atmosphere. Stretching for several kilometers along the Arabian Sea, the beach offers a peaceful escape from the busier tourist hubs in the region. Its wide shoreline, framed by swaying palm trees, provides plenty of space for visitors to relax, stroll, or simply enjoy the sound of the waves.

We visited Culva Beach on the recommendation of our hosts at Maria Guest House after a busy afternoon at Margao Market. The taxi ride was uneventful—our driver wasn’t particularly talkative, but the short journey gave us a chance to take in the lush Goan landscape. Once we arrived, the beach’s quiet and open setting felt like the perfect antidote to the market’s lively chaos.

We spent about an hour or two here, enjoying the calming waves and the warm, golden light of late afternoon. Dinner at one of the beach shacks was simple yet satisfying—fresh seafood paired with a chilled bottle of Kingfisher beer. It was a relaxing and unhurried evening, the kind that makes Goa so special.

That said, as beautiful and peaceful as Culva is, I personally prefer Palolem Beach. Palolem’s crescent-shaped shoreline, vibrant atmosphere, and variety of dining options give it a charm that Culva, for all its quiet elegance, doesn’t quite match for me. Still, Culva Beach is a great spot for anyone seeking a more subdued and spacious experience in South Goa.

Birthday party (2024) aka Kartuli Disko

7 February, 2025 | Living in Georgia | 185 seen

Back in June 2024,  amazing team at Caucasus Translations pulled off an incredible surprise birthday party for my dear partner. The birthday girl of honor had absolutely no clue what was going on as I secretly took her to the party spot in the suburbs of Tbilisi

As soon as we arrived, the energy was electric. The music kicked in, and the dancing started immediately. Traditional Georgian dances took over the floor, and of course, Kartuli disko was the highlight of the night. It was impossible not to get swept up in the rhythm and excitement, and soon everyone was dancing nonstop, celebrating together.

If the dancing wasn’t enough, we even had smoke bombs that lit up the night with color. It was such an unexpected touch that made the whole experience feel even more surreal. The mix of music, laughter, and the dreamy smoke-filled air created an atmosphere that was nothing short of magical.

That night was full of love, laughter, and so many unforgettable moments. It wasn’t just about celebrating a birthday—it was about the bond we all share as a team and the incredible friendships we’ve built over the years. 

January 2025 Stock Portfolio Update ($7,936)

5 February, 2025 | Investments | 63 seen

At the end of January 2025, the total value of our stock portfolio was USD 7,936 (€7,611 ). What is about 14.17% increase or USD 984 gain, if compared to the previous month. Despite few troubled options trades our small but aspiring dividend stock portfolio ended strong.

Most of the month we spent in Georgia, just at the start of the month we returned from our almost month long trip to India. While in Georgia, we did a few roadtrips to places like Gudauri and Sighnaghi last month, spending quality time with family. Also at the end of January, my mom visited me here in Tbilisi.

Now, back to the stock portfolio

Stock Portfolio

YTD our stock portfolio has gained 14.39%, what outperforms SP500 significantly (3.22%). In our case the growth actually comes from recovering options trade on MS stock, I rolled a few months ago. with MS stock price soaring well above $140 our short $125 March expiry put option is loosing value, this increasing total value. 

Stock buys

In January I mostly invested in fractional shares, with following buys.

• Bristol-Myers Squibb (BMY): Acquired an additional 1.25 shares, bringing my total to 5.25 shares.
• Deutsche Bank (DB): Increased my position by 5 shares, totaling 17 shares.
• Alphabet Inc. (GOOG): Added 0.1 shares, now holding 1.1 shares.
• McDonald's (MCD): Purchased 0.1 shares, totaling 2.3 shares.
• Nike (NKE): Acquired 0.1 shares, bringing the total to 1 share.
• NVIDIA (NVDA): Increased holdings by 1.85 shares, totaling 4 shares.

Options trades

This January, I was selling both puts and calls with BMY, NKE, and NVDA. Our biggest failure this month was credit spread with NVDA stock, which I had to roll forward to December 2025 expiry, after DeepSeek AI sent shockwaves across the markets. The biggest gain, recovering from MS put trade with expiry in March. Because of the NVDA trade decided to be extra careful with additional options trades just not to blow up our small, but growing portfolio.

Dividend Income

Last January, in dividend payments we received $15.15, which is about $0.48 daily. Following tickers paid us dividend in January

• AGNC Investment Corp (AGNC): $0.51
• Bristol-Myers Squibb (BMY): $2.24
• Altria Group Inc. (MO): $0.87
• Medical Properties Trust Inc. (MPW): $7.34
• Nike, Inc. (NKE): $0.31
• Philip Morris International Inc. (PM): $3.44
• Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. (TMO): $0.02
• U.S. Bancorp (USB): $0.42

Our current yearly dividend from the portfolio stands at USD 212.69, yielding 2.88%

While the total dividend is not yet enough to retire comfortably, it is a solid foundation upon which we can build.

I believe by the end of the year we should be able to push our dividend portfolio to $300-$350/yearly

Plans for February 2025

For the month of February, I'm looking to dollar cost average buying shares on BMY and NVDA and maybe some other ticker. Not planning lots of options trades as we are still recovering few options. 

How was your investments performing in the month of January? Leave a comment!

Schuchmann Wines Château: A Long-Awaited Stay in Georgia’s Premier Winery Hotel & Spa

4 February, 2025 | Hotel reviews | 252 seen

It took us over a decade to finally make it to Schuchmann Wines Château & Spa, and it was well worth the wait! We’ve spent years recommending this stunning winery hotel to visiting friends and business partners, yet somehow, we had never experienced it firsthand—until now.

Back in 2011, when I first relocated to Georgia, Schuchmann Wines was already on my radar. Nestled in the heart of Kakheti, near Telavi, it seemed like the perfect place for a retreat, yet circumstances always got in the way. In fact, we even booked a stay about 10 years ago, but without a car, reaching the hotel from Sighnaghi proved too challenging. 

Fast forward to 2025, and we finally made it—hosting our annual corporate event for Caucasus Translations in this magnificent setting.

The Experience: A Blend of Luxury and Authenticity

Schuchmann Wines Château is more than just a hotel; it’s a luxurious escape for wine lovers, spa enthusiasts, and corporate groups alike.

From the moment we arrived, the charm of the German-inspired interior was evident. No surprise there—the owner, a retired German Railways chairman, has infused the property with European elegance while preserving its authentic Georgian soul.

Among the highlights of our stay:

🍷 The Spa & Wellness Facilities – A hot indoor swimming pool, wine baths, and a mini-golf course—yes, wine baths! A unique experience that truly sets Schuchmann apart.

🏡 The Accommodation – The cozy yet elegant rooms made for a relaxing stay, blending Georgian warmth with German precision in design.

🍽 Dining & Wine – The restaurant served exquisite Georgian cuisine, paired, of course, with Schuchmann’s famous wines. Every dish was a reminder of why Georgian food culture is so special.

A Bargain for Corporate Retreats

For a group of 12 people, our total bill came to just over 3,000 GEL—covering at least six rooms, dining, and spa access. That’s roughly $100 per person, making it an absolute bargain for such a high-end experience.

Final Verdict: Highly Recommended

Our long-awaited stay at Schuchmann Wines Château & Spa did not disappoint. The combination of breathtaking views, exceptional service, and world-class wine experiences makes this a must-visit destination for both personal getaways and corporate events.

Would we return? Absolutely. If you're in Georgia, make sure Schuchmann is on your list—don’t wait 10+ years like we did!

Margao Market, Goa: Spices, Sweets, and a Slice of Local Life

3 February, 2025 | Shopping Venues | 46 seen

We decided to take a relaxed day trip to Margao, thanks to our host at Maria Guest House in Palolem Beach, who kindly organized everything. The main event? A visit to Margao Market. It turned out to be a short but fascinating experience, filled with sights, smells, and tastes that left a lasting impression.

The moment we stepped into Margao Market, it felt alive. The place buzzed with activity—vendors calling out their prices, customers haggling, and the air filled with the scent of spices and fresh produce. The market felt familiar, almost like the Dezerteer Market in Tbilisi. There’s something universal about these bustling marketplaces—they’re chaotic, colorful, and full of life.

Everywhere we turned, there was something interesting to see. Piles of bright red chilies, fresh green herbs, and plump tropical fruits competed for attention. Spice vendors had baskets overflowing with turmeric, cumin, and cardamom, their rich aromas impossible to ignore. Naturally, we couldn’t leave without grabbing a few packets of spices to take home.

We also stumbled across stalls selling local sweets. Bebinca, a layered Goan dessert, was a must-try, and we also picked up some dodol, a sticky treat made from coconut and jaggery. The vendors were friendly and more than happy to chat about their offerings, which added a personal touch to the experience.

After exploring, we found a small café nearby for lunch. It wasn’t fancy, but it didn’t need to be. We ordered a Goan thali—a generous plate of rice, fish curry, vegetable dishes, and pickles. It was simple, fresh, and delicious—the kind of meal that sticks with you long after the trip is over.

What made Margao Market memorable wasn’t just the things we bought or ate but the atmosphere. The vendors have been here for years, maybe decades, and they know their trade inside out. Watching them work, joke, and barter gave us a glimpse into everyday life in Goa. It felt genuine and real, far from the polished tourist attractions.

Our trip to Margao Market was short but sweet—just the right amount of adventure for a low-key day. We left with a bag full of spices, a few sweets, and a better understanding of the local culture. If you’re in South Goa and want to experience something authentic without straying too far, Margao Market is definitely worth a visit.