Popular travel destinations in Georgia include the Gelati Monastery, Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, Vardzia, and the Transcaucasian Trail.
The standards for patient care and medical services in Georgia may differ from your home country. Healthcare is administered through large-scale public-private partnership, where the majority of facilities are privatized and funded through the state. Healthcare in Georgia typically does not meet international standards, especially outside of Tbilisi. Regulations that ensure the quality of care are limited. Compared to other European countries, Georgia has a high number of physicians but a shortage of nurses. Physicians in major cities are employed by private facilities, while physicians in rural areas are employed by the state.
In the event of a medical emergency, contact your travel health insurance company immediately. Hospitals in Georgia typically require upfront payment in cash or credit card, regardless if you have travel health insurance. Due to limited healthcare services, medical evacuation to Western Europe is common for serious health emergencies. Ensure that you have accessible funds to cover upfront fees and adequate travel health insurance, including evacuation. Before you depart, check with your insurer about the extent of their coverage in Georgia.
Pharmacies in Tbilisi are generally well-stocked with essential medications, but shortages can occur. Regulations and the enforcement of guidelines within the pharmaceutical industry are limited and there are currently no guidelines for physician prescribing practices. Pharmacists may give patients a different medication than what has been prescribed and many medications can be purchased without a prescription. However, you should always consult a physician before taking medication. Due to limited regulation, the quality of available medications can vary. Avoid buying medications from markets or unlicensed pharmacies as fake medication is a common concern.
If you are travelling with medication, check with Georgia's embassy, consulate, or Ministry of Health for details on medication allowances and restrictions. If your medication is a psychotropic or narcotic, you can review Georgia's regulations on the International Narcotics Control Board. Note that these sources may provide incomplete or out-of-date information.
Roads in Georgia may be unlit or in poor condition, especially in rural areas. Traffic can often be chaotic and road rules are inconsistently followed and enforced. Seat belt laws apply to all occupants of a vehicle.