My journey into the heart of Georgia’s tourism industry began with the inauguration of the Mestia Tourism Information Center (TIC Mestia) in 2010, marking the start of an unforgettable chapter in my life. For six transformative years, I was part of a remarkable transition, turning what was once a notorious hotspot for robbery into a cherished tourist destination. This period, characterized by rapid construction and development, remains one of the most cherished phases of my career. Reflecting on those days, it often feels like a swiftly unfolding dream.
I was deeply passionate about my role and dedicated to ensuring that every visitor left Svaneti with indelible memories. However, in 2016, I decided to venture into new territory by opening a small café in the center of Mestia. Operating within a rented space, the café presented new challenges and demanded a great deal of resilience and adaptability. Daily interactions with diverse individuals required not just service but earning their respect, a task both exhausting and exhilarating.
Parallel to running the café, I embarked on a personal project to build a house on the outskirts of Mestia. I envisioned a sanctuary that would stand amidst the breathtaking scenery, offering peace and stunning views—a true slice of happiness to wake up to each morning. This dream evolved into a grander ambition to construct a hotel, a plan that solidified with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. With the café closed due to global upheavals, I contemplated deeply about my future and decided to stay in Mestia, marking a pivotal moment in my life.
The journey to build my 21-room hotel was fraught with challenges, particularly during the pandemic. The struggle to secure building materials was compounded by labor issues, as workers often attempted to take advantage of my position as a woman leading the project. Despite these obstacles, the hotel was completed in 2023, standing as a testament to perseverance and the embodiment of my personal vision.
My philosophy for the hotel mirrors my own values. I have labored tirelessly, nurturing it day and night, ensuring that every guest departs with the desire to return. My travels both within and beyond Georgia have reinforced my belief in our potential to thrive as a developed nation, providing a prosperous life for future generations right here in Georgia.
In Svaneti, where the winters are harsh and challenges like power outages and blocked roads are frequent, I strive to contribute to the development of the region. Each satisfied guest not only promises return visits but also helps cultivate a reputation that attracts more tourists, vital for the local economy and the youth of this mountainous area.
I see my efforts as laying down small stones daily toward building a better future in one of Georgia’s most rugged yet beautiful regions. My dream is for us to overcome existential challenges so that every visitor’s experience is seamless and enchanting, fueling the growth and development of Svaneti for generations to come.
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