So You Want to Travel to Georgia? Don't Get Lost in Translation (Especially When It Comes to Money!)
Ah, Georgia! Land of stunning mountain ranges, delicious wine, and... confusing currency? Fear not, intrepid traveler, for this guide will have you navigating the monetary landscape of Georgia like a financial Indiana Jones (minus the fedora and bullwhip, hopefully).
 |
| What Currency Did Georgia Use |
The Reign of the Lari: Georgia's Current Currency
Forget rubles, drachmas, or schillings (although those last ones would be pretty cool). Georgia's official currency is the lari, denoted by the symbol ₾ (which kind of looks like a funky question mark with a crown, but that's just us).
The lari is divided into 100 tetri – a word with an interesting history, but let's not get bogged down by etymology right now (unless you're a language nerd, then by all means, be our guest!).
Fun Fact: The word "lari" comes from an old Georgian term for "treasure" or "hoard." So, when you're carrying lari around, you're basically jingling a pocketful of Georgian riches (or at least enough for a delicious khachapuri, a local cheese-bread that is a national treasure in its own right).
Exchanging Your Moolah for Lari: A No-Drama Shopping Spree
Exchanging your foreign currency for lari is a breeze. Airports, banks, and currency exchange offices are plentiful, all eager to help you swap your cash for the local loot.
QuickTip: Highlight useful points as you read.
Pro Tip: Do your research beforehand to find the best exchange rates. Haggling isn't the norm here, but a little comparison shopping can save you a few tetri.
Important Note: While credit cards are becoming more widely accepted, especially in tourist areas, cash is still king in Georgia. So, make sure to have enough lari on hand for those charming little cafes and souvenir shops that might not have a card reader.
Farewell, Rubles! A Brief History Lesson (Because Why Not?)
Before the lari came on the scene in 1995, Georgia used the Soviet ruble. Let's just say, it wasn't exactly a time of financial stability. The lari's introduction marked a new era for Georgia's economy, and it's been a bumpy ride (like any good rollercoaster!), but the country has come a long way.
So You've Got Your Lari: Now What?
Now comes the fun part: spending your hard-earned cash on Georgian delights! Here are a few things to keep in mind:
QuickTip: Pause when something feels important.
- Haggling: In some markets, particularly for souvenirs, a little friendly bargaining is expected. But don't go overboard – remember, you're a guest!
- Tipping: Tipping isn't mandatory in Georgia, but it's always appreciated for good service. A round-up to the nearest lari or leaving a small percentage of the bill is perfectly acceptable.
Remember: Always carry a mix of bills and coins. While larger stores will have change, smaller vendors might not.
Frequently Asked Lari-ous Questions (See what we did there?):
How to exchange money in Georgia?
 |
Airports, banks, and currency exchange offices are your best bets. Do your research for the best rates!
How much cash should I bring to Georgia?
Tip: Take mental snapshots of important details.
It depends on your spending habits, but generally, it's better to have more lari than you think you'll need.
Can I use credit cards in Georgia?
Credit cards are becoming more accepted, especially in tourist areas, but cash is still preferred by many vendors.
How much should I tip in Georgia?
QuickTip: A short pause boosts comprehension.
Tipping isn't mandatory, but a small amount for good service is always appreciated.
What are some things I can buy with lari?
Literally anything you can find in Georgia! From delicious food and charming souvenirs to unforgettable experiences, the lari is your key to unlocking the treasures of this beautiful country.
 |
