Georgia

Location Eurasia Near Russia Black Sea Turkey Armenia Azerbaijan ( 亞塞拜然 ) capital

Language Ethnic Make-up: Georgian 83.8%, Azeri ( 亞塞拜然人 )6.5%, Armenian 5.7%, Russian 1.5%, other 2.5% Language Use: Georgian Russian

National Flag white rectangle Within its central portion is a large red cross that extends to the edge of the flag. In the four corners there are four bolnur- katskhuri ( 格魯吉亞 ) red crosses.

Society & Culture Warm hospitality is a very Georgian trait. Guests are seen as a gift and foreigners are therefore guests of the country. The supra is a large dinner party involving many toasts.

Society & Culture The toastmaster or "tamada" selects people to make long toasts and for special toast, a horn full of wine is passed around the table. Beer is only used to toast the enemy! So don't toast with beer.

Meeting & Greeting When meeting someone for the first time, shake hands while saying "gamarjoba" ("hello"). Once a relationship warms up some, Georgians will quickly move to a kiss on the cheek. When addressing people only close friends or family will usually use first names. Most people would expect to be addressed with their appropriate title followed by the surname.

Gift Giving Etiquette Gifts are usually given at birthdays and at Christmas. In Georgia they also have "name days" - these are the birth dates of Saints whom people are named after. Gifts do not need to be expensive and it is more about the thought and intent behind the gift. If invited to a Georgian home, bring flowers, imported sweets or chocolates to the hosts.

Gift Giving Etiquette Give an odd number of flowers. Even numbers are given for funerals. Gifts do not need to be elaborately wrapped. A small gift for the children is always appreciated. Gifts are not necessarily opened when received

Dining Etiquette If in doubt over etiquette then either watch what others do or simply ask. The fork is held in the left hand and the knife in the right while eating. Keep your hands visible when eating and try not to rest your elbows on the table. The oldest (or most honoured) guest is usually served first.

Dining Etiquette Try all the dishes if you can. You will be offered second and third helpings and accepting them will please the host. Try therefore to take smaller first portions. Finish everything on your plate. Expect lively conversation during the meal.