So you're waltzing to Georgia? Don't get tripped up by the Lari!
Ah, Georgia! Land of stunning mountain ranges, delicious khinkali dumplings, and... a currency that might leave you scratching your head. Fear not, fellow traveler, because this guide will have you navigating the Georgian Lari like a pro in no time.
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| What Currency Do Georgia Use |
Ditch the Dollars, Dude!
Forget your USD, Euros, or piles of British Pounds. The official currency of Georgia is the Lari (pronounced lah-ri). Yep, that's right. Not the Georgian Ruble, or the Choco-Lari (although that sounds pretty tasty). Just the good ol' Lari.
The Lari is divided into 100 tetri (pronounced tet-ree), which come in handy for those teeny tiny purchases, like a post card or a suspicious-looking bag of glowing mushrooms (not recommended).
Tip: Read aloud to improve understanding.
Lari Lowdown: A Crash Course for Cash Cougars
Here's a quick cheat sheet to get you started:
- Lari symbol: ? (looks a bit like a fancy horseshoe)
- Exchange rate: Fluctuates like a Kardashian's relationship status, but you can usually get a decent exchange for your USD or Euros.
- Coins and bills: Llari come in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100. Tetri coins come in 1, 5, 10, 20 and 50. Fun fact: Georgian Lari bills are adorned with famous Georgian figures and landmarks, so you can brush up on your history while you shop!
Pro Tip: ATMs are widely available in major cities, but carrying some cash is always a good idea, especially in smaller towns.
Tip: Use this post as a starting point for exploration.
Lari Life Hacks: How to Avoid Tourist Traps (and Tetri Terrors)
- Haggling is acceptable: Especially at flea markets and souvenir shops. Channel your inner penny-pinching granny and don't be afraid to negotiate.
- Card payments are on the rise: While cash is still king in many places, many restaurants and shops in tourist areas accept cards.
- Tipping is not mandatory: But a small gratuity is always appreciated for good service.
Remember: Always be polite and respectful when haggling or using your newfound Lari knowledge.
Frequently Asked Lari FAQs
How to exchange money in Georgia?
Tip: Take a sip of water, then continue fresh.
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- Banks and exchange booths offer the best rates. Avoid dodgy money changers on street corners (unless you want a starring role in your own travel disaster movie).
How much cash should I bring to Georgia?
- It depends on your travel style. But a good rule of thumb is to have enough cash for a few days' worth of expenses, and then rely on ATMs for the rest.
How can I avoid getting ripped off when using my Lari?
Reminder: Reading twice often makes things clearer.
- Be aware of current exchange rates and don't be afraid to double-check prices before you buy.
How do I use public transportation with Lari?
- Tbilisi has a metro system that uses plastic tokens purchased at stations. In other cities, buses and marshrutkas (minivans) typically require exact change.
How can I bring back leftover Lari as a souvenir?
- You can usually exchange leftover Lari back to your home currency at the airport. Just keep your exchange receipts for proof.
So there you have it! With this guide, you're all set to conquer the world of Georgian currency. Now get out there, explore Georgia, and spend those Lari with confidence (and maybe a little bit of flair)!
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