Tbilisi, Georgia

Straddling the land between the Black and Caspian seas, where Asia meets Europe, sits an ancient city with traditional aura and old winding lanes. It is also a stylish metropolis with bold architecture, lively bars and a popular nightlife that is often compared to that of Berlin. That's the unique vibe of Tbilisi (the 'T' is not silent), the exhilarating capital of Georgia. Tbilisi, said to be one of Europe’s most beautiful capitals, is nestled in a valley, overlooked by ancient churches and a spectacular fortress. Dominating its skyline stands Narikala, a 4th-century fortress. Ride the popular cable car to the fort. Georgia is a country of churches and one of Tbilsi's oldest surviving is Anchiskhati, a beautiful 6th-century church with stunning frescoes. Another landmark is the Metekhi church and the statue of King Vakhtang Gorgasali beside it, strategically balanced on a rocky outcrop near the Metekhi Bridge. Also visit Leghvtakhevi waterfall, located in the middle of old Tbilisi. The waterfall with crystal-clear water sits in the Leghvtakhevi canyon, which is a popular hiking site. Nearby is Abanotubani or 'the area of baths'. So popular were these baths that they became a favourite of many eminent personalities, including noted French author Alexandre Dumas during his stay here.

When to visit: Most visitors to Georgia come in July and August.

Apart from Tbilisi, you can visit charismatic Batumi, a beach-side resort town that sits against a backdrop of mist-wrapped hills and soaring snowcapped peaks.

One of Europe's oldest inhabited cities and the capital of several former kingdoms, Kutaisi is a charming destination with bountiful natural beauty. Explore the lovely town and the region of Imereti.

For a dose of wellness and health, head to Borjomi, a tranquil resort town nestled in a denselyforested mountain range. It's best known for the healing properties of its salty-sour mineral water. And don't miss Kakheti, Georgia’s premier wineproducing region, and the ancient monastery complex of David Gareji (Davit Gareja).

Exploring the local cuisine in Tbilisi is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in Georgian culture. Some popular dishes include khinkali (spicy meat dumpling), khachapuri (cheese bread), churchkhela (candy), badrijani nigvzit (eggplant rolls filled with a walnut paste) and Georgian wines!

Capital Astana

(Nur-Sultan) is a bustling and growing city with futuristic architecture. Some of the prominent landmarks here include the Baiterek Tower, the Ak Orda Presidential Palace and the Khan Shatyr Entertainment Centre. To re-live history, head to vibrant Shymkent, with bustling bazaars. Once a Silk Road stop, it is filled with history. Don't miss the city's vibrant arts scene and local beers! Make a trip to Turkestan (Turkistan), home to one of Kazakhstan’s holiest monuments, the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it is dedicated to the Sufi saint Khoja Ahmed Yasawi.

When to visit: Visit from April to May and September to October.

Try hearty dishes like beshbarmak (boiled meat with noodles) and kazy (horse sausage). Don't miss the kymyz, a fermented mare's milk beverage or the shashlik (skewered and grilled meat). A handy snack is samsa (very close to the Indian samosa), a savoury pastry filled with meat or pumpkin. Almaty also has a vibrant tea culture and is believed to be the birthplace of modern apples!

The beautiful city of Almaty sitting against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains, offers a stunning blend of natural beauty and modern-day architectural wonders. Kazakhstan's former capital, this cultural hub is the perfect introduction to the country that was a prominent stop along the ancient Silk Road. From elegant Soviet-era buildings and museums with relics from the Bronze Age to dance-till-dawn nightclubs, trendy cafes and restaurants, and new ski resorts, Almaty is a hidden gem. Start your tour at the lush Panfilov Park with the candy-coloured Zenkov Cathedral at its heart. This expansive and attractive spot of greenery is one of central Almaty's most popular hangout areas. The park is named for the Panfilov Heroes, 28 soldiers of an infantry unit who laid their lives fighting Nazi tanks in 1941. Delve into the region's history and culture at the many museums, including one on arts and one on musical instruments. If you are tired after a day of walking or have tried a marshrutka (bus) ride, relax at Arasan Baths, a bathhouse with stunning mosaics. A little outside the city is Medeu, one of the highest ice skating rinks in the world. Try skating or simply enjoy the mountain views. Another beauty is the picturesque Big Almaty Lake.