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Our journey through Georgia included a 1.5-hour visit to Uplistsikhe, an ancient rock-hewn town about 10 kilometers east of Gori. This remarkable cave city is situated on a high rocky bank of the Mtkvari River, which provides an interesting glimpse into Georgia's past. Uplistsikhe (meaning "the lord's fortress" in Georgian) is one of the oldest urban settlements in Georgia. Human presence dates back to the end of the 2nd millennium BC. The site blends various rock-cut architectural styles and shows the transition from pagan to Christian structures. We explored the 8-hectare complex by following narrow alleys and staircases connecting different cave structures. The site is divided into three main sections: lower, central, and upper parts. The central area contains most rock-cut structures and connects to the southern part via a narrow pass and tunnel. Notable features include a ceremonial hall with a Roman-style arch and a pillared hall that once served as a seat of power. Some larger structures have carved ceilings designed to resemble wooden logs. At the summit stands a 9th-10th century Christian basilica built of stone and brick. Before touring the caves, we visited the small on-site museum, which displays artifacts found during excavations and shows a short informative film about the site's history. This helped us understand how Uplistsikhe evolved from a pre-Christian center to a Christian stronghold when Tbilisi fell to Muslim invaders and then was abandoned after Mongol raids in the 14th century. From various points in the complex, we enjoyed excellent views of the surrounding landscape. The site's elevated position offers panoramic vistas of the Mtkvari River valley, with the winding river below and rolling hills stretching into the distance. The contrast between the rugged cave structures and the natural beauty of the countryside added another dimension to our visit. Parts of the site were destroyed by an earthquake in 1920, but conservation efforts continue. Uplistsikhe has been on UNESCO's tentative World Heritage list since 2007. Overall, this ancient cave city was a very unique and impressive stop on our Georgian trip.

During our explorations of Tbilisi, we quickly visited the Great Synagogue, also known as the Georgian Synagogue, located in the middle of the old town. This Orthodox Jewish synagogue has an interesting history. It was originally established when Georgian Jews from Akhaltsikhe migrated to Tbilisi in the late 19th century. They initially converted a house into a synagogue in 1877, which led to its nickname "synagogue of the people of Akhaltsikhe." After the original building was demolished due to disrepair in 1899, construction of the current structure began in 1904 and was completed in 1911. Even during our short visit, I could appreciate the synagogue's distinctive architectural style, which combines Moorish Revival and Romanesque Revival elements. The building measures 24.5 meters long, 15 meters wide, and stands 14 meters tall, creating an impressive presence in the neighborhood. The synagogue continues to serve as an active place of worship for Tbilisi's Jewish community and also houses a mikveh (ritual bath). We also saw the Menorah in front of the synagogue and were moved by the numerous stickers Israeli visitors had placed on it. During the ongoing Israel-Gaza war, which has claimed many Israeli soldiers and citizens, a spontaneous memorial has formed. People have attached stickers bearing photos of those who have fallen or been killed, along with memory sentences or personal mottos. This impromptu memorial was a powerful and emotional reminder of the human cost of the conflict that unfortunately continues to this day.

During our travels through Georgia, we stopped at the impressive Ananuri castle complex on the Aragvi River in Dusheti Municipality, about 72 kilometers from Tbilisi. Perched dramatically above what is now the Zhinvali Reservoir, Ananuri served as the seat of the eristavis (Dukes) of Aragvi. This powerful feudal dynasty ruled the area from the 13th century. The complex has witnessed numerous battles throughout its tumultuous history. We took a 20-minute walk around and inside the complex, which consists of two castles joined by a crenellated curtain wall. The upper fortification with its sizeable square tower (Sheupovari) remains well-preserved and was once the last line of defense for the Aragvi rulers against their rivals. The lower fortification with its round tower is mostly in ruins but still adds to the site's medieval character. We explored the complex's churches, though the older Church of the Virgin (17th century) was closed during our visit. The larger Church of the Mother of God (1689) impressed us with its central dome, carved entrances, and intricate grapevine cross, despite many of its frescoes being destroyed in an 18th-century fire. I was fascinated by the complex's tragic history, especially the 1739 attack when rival forces set Ananuri on fire and massacred the Aragvi clan. Even more intriguing was the legend of Ana from Nuri, who reportedly sacrificed her life rather than reveal the location of a secret tunnel that supplied the castle during sieges—hence the name "Ananuri." The site offers basic amenities for tourists, including toilets and merchant stalls selling souvenirs and refreshments. In 2007, this architectural treasure was placed on the tentative list for inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage Site program - a well-deserved recognition of its historical and cultural significance. Ananuri offers a perfect glimpse into Georgia's feudal past and is definitely worth a visit for anyone traveling along the Georgian Military Road.

We visited The Chronicle of Georgia, often called "Georgian Stonehenge," on Mount Keeni overlooking Tbilisi. The visibility was poor that day, but the monument was still impressive. Created by Georgian sculptor Zurab Tsereteli in 1985 but never fully completed, this massive structure features 16 towering pillars, each standing over 30 meters tall. The bronze pillars are truly enormous - this is the most impressive monument I have ever seen. The pillars are divided into two sections: the bottom parts illustrate scenes from Jesus Christ's life, while the upper sections showcase Georgian royalty and heroes including King Mirian III, Queen Tamar, and poet Shota Rustaveli. Beside the pillars stands a grapevine cross symbolizing St. Nino, who brought Christianity to Georgia in 337 AD, along with a small chapel. From the top of the large set of stairs, we could see parts of the Tbilisi Sea (an artificial lake built in 1953) and northern Tbilisi, though the poor visibility limited the views. The monument sits in the Nadzaladevi District and can be accessed through Unknown Heroes Street. Getting there requires some planning as it's not in the central tourist area. The most convenient option is to take a taxi from Tbilisi city center. Alternatively, catch a minibus (marshrutka) from Sarajishvili Metro station. The site is somewhat remote, which probably explains why it remains relatively undiscovered by most tourists despite its significance. Despite being a significant historical monument that chronicles Georgia's rich heritage, it remains relatively undiscovered by tourists, making it a peaceful spot to visit without crowds. The monument's scale and detailed carvings offer a unique perspective on Georgian history, literature, and the importance of Christianity to the nation.

We visited Gudauri ski resort in the Caucasus Mountains for about an hour and a half. Coming from a hot country, we were excited to experience snow, even though we didn't ski. Although the visibility was poor that day, we still enjoyed watching the skiers and snowboarders navigate the various slopes, from beginner runs to more challenging routes for the advanced. We took the cable car up the mountain, which provided nice views of the resort area and surrounding landscape. The cable car system makes traveling between the resort center and the skiing zones easy. After spending time in the snow, we warmed up at one of the restaurant-pubs with some hot chocolate. Sitting there watching the skiers pass by, I found myself considering whether I might want to learn to ski someday. Though we didn't participate in any winter sports during this visit, seeing everyone on the slopes was interesting. Maybe we'll try skiing next time instead of just admiring it from a distance.

During our journey from Tbilisi, we made a brief 15-minute stop at Zhinvali Reservoir in Georgia's Mtskheta-Mtianeti region. This popular tourist stop is about 70 kilometers from Tbilisi along the Georgian Military Road. Even during our short visit, we appreciated the spectacular views of blue-green waters between mountain ridges. The reservoir is an artificial lake created by a dam built at the confluence of Pshavi's Aragvi and Mtiuleti's Aragvi (White Aragvi). The surrounding forests on the slopes of the Kartli, Alevi, and Gudamakari mountain ridges create a picturesque backdrop. I was interested to learn that the dam's construction was completed in 1985, with the Zhinvali Hydroelectric Power Plant (130 MW total power) becoming operational that same year. Beyond its beauty, the reservoir serves an essential practical purpose, supplying drinking water to about half of Tbilisi's population. One of the reservoir's most fascinating aspects is the submerged 12th-century Church of the Holy Cross. Due to changing water levels throughout the year, this ancient church remains underwater for 6 months and then emerges to be visible on the lake bed for the other 6 months—a haunting reminder of what was sacrificed for modern infrastructure. The area had basic facilities, including toilets, which were convenient for our quick visit. Several merchant stalls lined the parking area selling clothes, food, and coffee. As expected, the site was busy with other tourists all pausing to take photos of the stunning landscape. While our visit was brief, Zhinvali Reservoir impressed us as both a beautiful natural site and an important piece of infrastructure for Georgia. A worthwhile quick stop on our Georgian journey!

If you're into history, especially from the Roman period, Ancient Yodfat National Park  is a must-see. Nestled in the Galilee, this site holds deep significance from the First Jewish-Roman War  in 67 CE. Yodfat, a modest Jewish village, became a focal point of fierce resistance against the Romans under the command of Josephus Flavius  (Joseph ben Matityahu). The Romans, led by Vespasian , laid siege to the city for 47 brutal days before it eventually fell, marking a tragic turning point in Jewish history. When you visit today, the remnants of this courageous stand are still evident. The ruins you’ll encounter include parts of the northern wall , which held strong during the siege. Some parts of this wall date back to the Hasmonean period  but were reinforced during the revolt. While walking along the trail, you can see the ingenuity of the defenders—using cisterns  for rainwater collection, caves for hiding, and walls built to withstand the Roman onslaught. The park currently offers three marked trails: A short, accessible red trail  (around 15 minutes round trip) is ideal if you just want a quick glimpse. The green trail  takes about an hour and includes the red path, giving you a broader look at the site, though be prepared for a short climb  at the beginning. For a more immersive experience, the black trail  (1.5 hours) covers all areas and offers a slightly steeper climb  at the start, making it a good choice if you’re up for a bit more effort. Along these paths, you’ll find signage  and quotes from Josephus Flavius' “The Jewish War”  that help bring the battle to life, narrating the intensity of the siege and the resilience of Yodfat’s defenders. To make the history more tangible, there are also models of a Roman catapult, battering ram, and Roman soldiers in full armor with spears  (photo-worthy for sure!). These replicas give a vivid sense of the battlefield dynamics and the formidable power the Romans brought to the siege. One of the most striking points is the water cisterns , crucial to the survival of the city’s inhabitants during the hot summer months of the siege. Another point of interest is the underground shelter , a narrow tunnel and series of rooms where, according to Josephus, many of Yodfat's defenders hid from the Romans. While the Romans massacred those they found, Josephus himself survived the siege, later becoming a historian under Roman rule. If you visit in September , the park is especially beautiful, with  thousands of squill flowers blooming , adding a burst of color to the ancient ruins. Overall, Yodfat National Park offers more than just a history lesson—it’s a scenic, thought-provoking site that combines nature with a powerful narrative of survival and resistance. The hike is relatively easy, and the atmosphere makes for a peaceful yet poignant visit, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. If you're in the area, it's definitely worth stopping by for a hike and a quiet reflection on one of the most significant moments in Jewish history.

Welcome to Italy, a country synonymous with rich history, art, culinary delights, and stunning coastal roads. If you're planning to explore the scenic landscapes behind the wheel, there are vital points to remember: Right-Hand Drive : Like most of Europe, Italy follows the right-hand driving system. Always drive on the right side of the road. Speed Limits : The limit is typically 50 km/h (31 mph) in cities and urban areas. On main non-urban roads, it's 90 km/h (56 mph); on highways or 'autostrada,' it's 130 km/h (81 mph). However, always stay alert for signs indicating different limits. Autostrade : These are Italy's toll highways. While they are the quickest routes between major cities, you'll need to pay tolls by cash or credit card. Parking : Blue lines indicate paid parking spots. Tickets can be obtained from nearby machines ("parcometro"), and displaying them on your dashboard is essential. White lines indicate free parking and yellow lines indicate reserved spots (e.g., for residents or disabled drivers). Navigating Narrow Roads: When driving through Italy's mountainous regions, be aware that some roads can be extremely narrow and winding. This is particularly true in rural and high-altitude areas, where the roads often hug the sides of mountains. These roads can become even more challenging at night due to limited visibility. Although locals might seem to drive confidently and at high speeds, it's crucial to remain calm and drive carefully. Take your time, use pull-outs to let faster drivers pass, and always be mindful of sharp bends and oncoming traffic. Documentation : Ensure your driving license, car registration, and insurance are handy. An International Driving Permit may also be required for international travelers. Fuel Stations : Called "benzine" in Italian, they are usually plentiful. Some might close for a mid-day break, so keeping your tank filled is wise. Also, note that "benzina" means gasoline, and "diesel" means diesel. Alcohol Limit : Italy has a strict limit of 0.05%. New drivers (those with a license for less than three years) have an even lower limit of 0.01%. ZTL Zones : Many Italian cities have "Zona Traffico Limitato" (ZTL) or restricted traffic areas. Unauthorized vehicles entering these zones will be fined, so it's best to park outside and explore on foot or use public transport. Headlights : Even during the day, keep your headlights on if you're outside urban areas. Emergency Numbers : For general emergencies, dial 112. For road assistance, the Automobile Club d'Italia (ACI) can be reached at 803 116. Italy, with its beautiful coastal roads, vineyard-laden countryside, and mountainous regions, offers a mesmerizing driving experience. By understanding and respecting the rules, you can ensure a safe and memorable journey through this captivating European gem! Safe travels! 🚗

An easy, circular route with a stunning view, and a tunnel that goes underground. The route in Tel Gezer is easy and along it there is an amazing view of the Elah Valley from all directions. One of the main attractions here is the descent to the ancient water factory. It is a kind of tunnel, 60 meters long that goes deep underground. You can bring headlamps, but you can also get by with your phone's flashlight. It is worth continuing (on foot or by driving a few minutes) to the nearby spring: Ein Varda. A small spring with huge and stunning green fields next to it.

An excellent place to enjoy the stunning blooms in the winter. Here you will find an abundance of anemones, cyclamen, stunning intimate corners between the trees for a picnic and many ancient watchtowers made of huge stones that can be climbed. It's a perfect escape to nature - you don't feel like you're in the middle of the city. It is a circular route of about km and the ascent to the top of the hill is moderate. The route: go on the green, connect to the black and return on the green. How to get there: The nearest parking lot is on Reuven Street. From there you return to Hashmonaim Street, cross the road and walk for about 5 minutes. The entrance to the hill is across from the ancient synagogue Umm Al Omran.

This place is just pure fun. Can't believe it's in the middle of the city. In the winter you will find here huge fields with anemones and sedums, a short circular route and many places for a picnic in the blooming fields. Another place here is The Amnon Lipkin Shahak lookout point- a space designed as a military tent, overlooking the area and explaining about his life and work. We hiked, skipped through the fields, made coffee among the trees - in short, a perfect place for a light walk

This enchanting forest has paths alongside the stream, with waterfalls dotting its course. Remarkably, most trees feature trunks adorned with leaves and vegetation—a unique sight that enhances the pastoral atmosphere. Numerous spots along the stream offer ideal locations for a picnic, and further ahead, KKL-Junk tables are also available. In my opinion, the essence of the forest lies in its atmosphere rather than following an organized route. For instance, we ventured along part of the path marked in purple, but there's no necessity to stick strictly to it. Wander along the stream and explore the pleasant paths branching out from it. Witness the trees cloaked in leaves and the sun's rays filtering through them—it's stunning.