Exploring Abkhazia: A Visit to One of the World’s Most Unusual Destinations

Are you looking for an off-the-beaten-path travel destination? If so, look no further than the region of Abkhazia. This little-known piece of land, located between the Black Sea and the mountainous Caucasus area, is a fascinating destination for the culturally curious traveler, boasting amazing scenery, fascinating history, and unique cuisine.

Abkhazia occupies just 8,660 square kilometres between Georgia and Russia, making it roughly the size of the US state of Delaware. Although it is disputed between the two countries, Abkhazia declared independence in 1992 and functions as a semi-autonomous region. It has been recognized by only five other countries, and is not officially recognized by the United Nations.

The landscape of Abkhazia is truly breathtaking. From the lush forests and rolling hills in the North to the golden beaches in the South, and the towering Mount Bzydukh in the center, there is much to explore. The rich biodiversity of the region is also impressive, with a variety of tylomorphic animals such as the Caucasian black grouse, hoopoes and red foxes.

Abkhazia is an interesting blend of cultures, with strong influences from both the Caucasus region and the Russian Empire. The Abkhazian language, derived from the Northwest Caucasian family, is spoken by the majority of the population. But Russian is also widely spoken here, and many of the older generation speak it fluently.

The food of Abkhazia is influenced by both local and foreign cuisines. Traditional dishes include Locjo (a vegetarian stew), Mu’ats’sa (a corn-based bread), Am ustakhi (a cold soup with walnuts and walnut oil) and Patarashka (a pie made with sweet red pepper, cheese and egg). For those looking for something a bit different, there are also many international options, such as “bigos” (a Polish stew) and “kutaniyashki” (a Georgian fried cheese pie).

If you’re looking for a unique and unusual destination, Abkhazia is the place for you. Its rich culture, stunning scenery and unique cuisine make it a great destination for the culturally curious traveler. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed beach holiday or a more immersive cultural experience, Abkhazia has something to offer everyone.