Day 86: Raining Again

Weather Update: Rain and Snow: 3°C

Elevation Above Sea Level: 380–770 metres (1,250–2,530 ft)

Morning Routine

Despite enjoying yesterday, I woke up to rain and cold this morning, so I stayed in bed until 11 am. Eventually, the rain seemed to stop, and it looked like the weather was changing. However, it soon started raining again.

Venturing Out

Needing supplies, I had to venture out. The mall was nearby, so I bought some walking shoes since my sandals weren't suitable for this weather. When I left the mall, the rain continued, making it clear that staying outside was not an option today. The one major problem is not trash everywhere but stray dogs, they roam the streets in their hundreds or thousands and sleep where they can. on the street in all weathers. Sadly, we are a world that adores pets but here something went wrong and dogs are abandoned on the streets of Tbilisi.

Freedom Square or Liberty Squared:

The square was originally named after Ivan Paskevich, Count of Erivan, a general in the Russian Imperial Army of Ukrainian descent, who earned his title in honour of his conquest of Erivan (present-day Yerevan) for the Russian Empire. During the Soviet era, the square was renamed twice: first to "Beria Square", and then "Lenin Square". The location was first named Freedom Square in 1918, during the foundation of the First Georgian Republic following the collapse of the Russian Empire.

The Freedom Square was the site of the 1907 Tiflis bank robbery. The Freedom Square has also been the site of various mass demonstrations including those for Georgia's independence (from the Soviet Union), the Rose Revolution, and others. In 2005 Freedom Square was the location where U.S. President George W. Bush and Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili addressed a crowd of around 100,000 people in celebration of the 60th anniversary marking the end of World War II. During this event, Georgian-Armenian Vladimir Arutyunian threw a live grenade at President Bush while he was speaking in an unsuccessful attempt to assassinate him

Weather Woes

The weather scuppered my plans from yesterday. Though Friday might be different, the forecast doesn't look promising. My time in Tbilisi has been hindered by the weather, but I can't complain since the last time I experienced rain was two months ago.

Seeking Comfort at Browns Bar

I decided to cosy up at Browns Bar. On my way there, I noticed a car covered in snow, indicating the forecast was accurate. However, from inside, I could only see rain. I'll head back to the hostel for a couple of hours and then pop out later this evening to see if I can strike up a conversation with someone like myself.

Reflections on Tbilisi

Tbilisi has been disappointing due to the weather affecting my plans. It deserves more time in the future.

Upcoming Trip to Batumi

I've booked a trip to Batumi on the Black Sea for two nights in an apartment on the 33th floor. I'll catch a train from Tbilisi on Saturday morning, hoping I've booked my seat on the right side for the best views.

Future Travels

On Monday I might travel to the border into Turkey, stopping at Trabzon for a couple of nights. From there, it's on to Ankara, and then we'll see where the adventure takes me. 🌏✨🏨🍺

Cheers to the adventures ahead and the stories yet to unfold!