Conference of accessible tourism takes place in Georgia

28.11.2014. The Department of Tourism and Resort of Adjara hosted the second annual international conference on the topic of accessible tourism for economical development and social responsibility in Georgia, Batumi on November 21.

The organizers of the conference pointed out the following aspects: First was the promotion of accessible tourism for social inclusion and economical development in the region. Second was the identification of activities on adaptation of the environment. Additionally, both Georgian and international tourism experts explained that in order for tourism to be successful in the area, the social responsibility of the business sector should be significantly enhanced.

“The conference did not only serve the purpose of finding possible ways to develop accessible tourism in the region, but also to increase social responsibility within society, because it is important for us to make both locals and tourists feel comfortable in Batumi,” said Mamuka Berdzenishvili, the Deputy Head of the Department of Tourism and Resort of Adjara.

Georgia’s new visa policy and its consequences for tourism

25.11.2014. New visa regulations entered into force in Georgia from September, under which visa-free regime with some countries was abolished, including those with which visa regime acted but visa could be obtained at the airport, a full visa regime was introduced.

In the years 2005-2014, Georgia has unilaterally decided to introduce a visa-free entry for citizens of all countries whose GDP is more than Georgia’s - it was established for 121 countries, and first of all - the EU and North America.

For other countries a simplified visa regime was introduced when visitors couldpurchase a visa at the airport, without unnecessary procedures. The liberalization of visa regulations is aimed at the development of tourism and promotion of foreign investors.

As a result of this policy, the number of tourists in Georgia has increased dramatically, which contributed to a sharp and rapid growth of the industry.

According to the International Organization UNWTO World Tourism Barometer, Georgia is recognized as a leader in terms of growth in the number of tourists.