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Georgia

Nearly everyone grows grapes... the Caucasus Mountains are home to numerous indigenous red grape varieties.

No matter where you go in this country, someone will try to get you drunk

Given this country is the birthplace of wine, one might also argue it’s the birthplace of hangovers.

  • Paul Marshall
Anabel Dean and son Hamish.

I missed my son while he was backpacking the world, so I joined him

I suggested we meet up in Europe for an epic hike. To sweeten the deal, I offered to pay for it.

  • Anabel Dean
Paul Marshall with his mum Catherine in Georgia.

I went on a holiday with my mum. I’ve never felt so popular

Like a selfie-stick, what was once embarrassing has now become a great travel accessory.

  • Paul Marshall
The Boathouse, London.

Born again: The greatest revamps and reinventions in travel this year

These award winners show how taking something inherently beautiful or unique and adding zeitgeisty features can double the joy.

  • Traveller Team
Lush greenery … Mestia during the warmer months.

New hiking trail puts forgotten part of Europe on the map

Until about 10 years ago, this remote region barely saw any international travellers. But thanks to a new 3000-kilometre hiking route, interest is surging.

  • Rob McFarland
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Borjomi, the hillside spa town.

Is this hike in a former Soviet state a good idea? Don’t ask the locals

“Are there any bears?” I ask half-jokingly. “They are very rare,” responds the unreadable ranger, giving nothing away.

  • Kurt Johnson
Telavi Market… “almost a museum”.

The world’s next great food destination is not where you expect

This is a nation with a long history of culinary excellence, and a strong modern culture keeping it alive. But tourists are only just cottoning on now.

  • Ben Groundwater
Evening view of Tbilisi and its Peace Bridge.

Nine must-see highlights of underrated eastern European city

With a dramatic setting in a plunging river valley, Georgia’s capital Tbilisi offers an intriguing range of architecture and the world’s oldest wine culture.

  • Rob McFarland
Khachapuri Adjarian style, with cheese and egg.

This pizza-like speciality has controversial origins

At its most basic, this is just bread with cheese, but it’s so culturally important it has been recognised by UNESCO.

  • Ben Groundwater
Fjordland.

Get your boots on: The world’s five best new hikes

The Balkans, New Zealand, Georgia and Japan are starters in the quest for the best hikes.

  • Rob McFarland