Hi guys, I recently visited the separatis Republic of Abkhazia in the Caucasus and Black Sea area. With Georgia on the East and Russia on the West and North part, this region, once part of Georgia is now struggling to come up as an independent country. And of course, there are countries who support it, like Russia and Venezuela and the majority of nations on the other side of the idea, including Georgia. To get a visa is easy and you can check my blog how to do it (it is in spanish):
http://mochilasperegrinas.com/index.php/2018/04/15/como-viajar-a-abjasia-la-region-separatista-del-caucaso/
It used to be one of the most summer destination during the time of the URSS, it was the Soviet Riviera where most of their leaders, including Stalin, had summer homes (dachas) all around this semi tropical region.
The bridge that separates Georgia from Abkhazia, from the georgian side. The other side (russian/abkhaz) is way more strict with photographs.
The border control on abkhaz side was tough and long (3hs of a huge variety of questions). They said that it was long because I´m the 1st argentinean person who cross this border and they were, just curious, let´s say.
The entrance to Abkhazia.
Buildings occupied by russian snipers and targets of georgian attack helicopters. Legacy of the war of ´92-´93.
The city is basically in ruins with some restored buildings in the downtown of Sukhumi, the capital. Plenty of building with infantry and helicopters bullet holes. Other are just abandoned with a dense tropical vegetation claiming them. It feels you are in a semi tropical and semi abandoned ghost region. The capital is somehow active, but the rest is purely nature and soviet nostalgy. Amazing place for those who love ruins and abandoned buildings.
The summer house (dacha) of Stalin.
A government building half in ruins and half working.
The once glamorous port and its café, now destroyed after the war.
77 mines found in the forest by the HALO trust, a demining foundation.
Sukhumi.
Sukhumi city center.
A soviet mural in the building where I was staying.
Without any language communication I ended up invited to the house of one of these two amazing abkhaz men. A lot of vodka and food provided. Great people (as georgian) with a big heart and lovely hospitality. Hostages of political ideas.
Thank you for passing by :)
Gracias.