So you're headed to Georgia, huh? Forget the peanuts, pack the Lari!
Alright adventurers, buckle up! You've booked your flight, researched the best khachapuri joints (because, let's be honest, that's priority number one), but have you considered the finer points of Georgian finance? No worries, because your trusty travel companion (that's me!) is here to break down the Georgian currency situation like nobody's business.
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| What Currency Do They Use In Georgia |
The Georgian Lari: Your New BFF
Forget rubles, euros, or your lucky stash of beans (although, those might come in handy for bartering at a particularly lively supra). Georgia operates on the Georgian lari, denoted by the snazzy symbol ₾ (which kind of looks like a fancy Pac-Man). You'll hear it called GEL sometimes too, which is just the international currency code, like the secret handshake of the financial world.
Here's the hot tip: One lari is divided into 100 tetri, which is their version of cents. Fun fact: "lari" comes from an old Georgian word for "treasure," so you're basically dealing in mini-fortunes!
Don't Be a Lari-Loser: Exchanging Your Dough
While you might be tempted to waltz into a shop with a fistful of dollars and a winning smile, that won't quite fly. Exchanging your currency for lari is the way to go. Luckily, Georgia has you covered. Banks and exchange offices are plentiful, especially in tourist areas.
Tip: Reread if it feels confusing.
Pro Tip: Do your research and shop around for the best exchange rates. Those extra lari can buy you another khachapuri (or two, depending on your appetite).
Plastic Fantastic? Credit Cards in Georgia
Credit cards are becoming increasingly accepted in Georgia, especially in larger establishments like hotels and fancy restaurants. But here's the thing: cash is still king. Many smaller shops, restaurants, and those adorable old ladies selling churchkhela (trust me, you'll want some) might only take cash. So, it's wise to have a healthy mix of lari and plastic at your disposal.
You've Got Questions? We've Got Answers! (The Lari FAQ)
1. How much cash should I bring?
QuickTip: Copy useful snippets to a notes app.
This depends on your spending habits, adventurer! But a good rule of thumb is to budget around $50-100 USD per day for food, drinks, and souvenirs.
2. Can I use ATMs in Georgia?
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Absolutely! ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Just make sure your bank card has international withdrawal capabilities and be aware of any fees.
Tip: Don’t skip — flow matters.
3. Should I tip in Georgia?
Tipping isn't mandatory in Georgia, but it's always appreciated for good service. A small round-up to the nearest lari or 10% is perfectly acceptable.
4. Is it safe to exchange money on the street?
QuickTip: Pay attention to first and last sentences.
It's best to stick to reputable exchange offices or banks. Playing the street currency exchange game can be risky.
5. What if I have leftover lari?
Most currency exchange offices will buy back your unused lari. Alternatively, use your leftover stash to impress your friends back home with your exotic foreign currency collection.
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