Adventure Club Jomardi

Main area of focus in Caring for the Destination:  

Exploring the connection between the past and present in the community, as well as being engaged in their customs, environment, and cuisine are some ways this tour gives travellers cultural insight into this remote area with the aim of focusi

Detailed description of the Caring for the Destination Initiative: 

During the tour travellers are educated about basic things they should do in order not to insult the locals. By respecting their sacred churches and remaining silent inside, and asking women to wear headscarves and skirts when entering the churches, are some traditional practices travellers will learn to respectfullly practice here.

It's important that tradition in this small and remote community is kept alive; nowadays, the past and its traditions have faded in the hearts of many people. In Svaneti threads between past and present are felt in every aspect and place: in their towers, small and old churches, houses, cuisine, and the traditional hats of Svan men. The locals still make traditional Svanetian Kubdari (bread filled with meat) and Tshvishdari (maize and cheese mixed and baked). The products are organic and healthy, as they always have been.

The fact that Svan towers were built was determined by the history of the area (invasions from northern tribes) and strict surroundings (avalanches would find Svans seeking refuge in their towers). The strictness of the nature has its reflection on the nature of the Svans: they are faithful, hospitable and strict in their manner.

The tour provides cooking courses, enabling tourists to try for themselves to make Svan Kubdari or Tshvishdari, and putting them in touch with the local community who are already accustomed to foreign guests. This interaction shows how strong the ties are between past and present and serves as a vivid example of the local lifestyle.