'''Abkhazia''' ( Abkhaz: _@?___~__, Russian: _@_q___p_x_y__, English: Abkhazia) is an independent republic since 1993. Abkhazia is situated on the Eastern Bank of the Black Sea, bordering to the North-West with Russia on the Psou River and to the East with Georgia on the Ingur River . With the Grand Caucasian Range on the North. Three National Parks in Pskhu-Gumista, Pitsunda-Mussera and Ritsa. Rich with fresh water resources with many lakes and rivers.
After war with Georgia in 1992-1993 Abkhazia had survived through immence embargo and blocade imposed by Georgia. Having most of its infrustructure destroyed Abkhazia manages to develope its main economic pillars which are tourism and agriculture. Though many efforts were taken to rehabilitate the country after war with Georgia there are still remains of distruction across the country. However the main obstacle for the development is the Georgia's constant military threat. For the period from 1992 till present Georgia launched three wars against Abkhazia in August 1992, May 1998, October 2001 and August 2006 (Operation in Kodor Gorge). Abkhazia is a beautiful subtropical region along the Black Sea full of beaches, history, excellent fruit, enormous mountains, lakes, caves, and lush flora.
Abkhaz, a northwestern Caucasian language, related to the Abkhaz-Adyg language group of the Indoeuropean languages family. There are two official languages: Abkhaz and Russian. Russian is convinient for intercultural communication since Abkhazia is multyethnic state. Russian is universally understood and the most convenient language for the traveler. In the cities one also can use English for basic communication.
The one viable land crossing into Abkhazia is from Sochi in Russia. Sea connection with Turkey has not started yet. The airspace of Abkhazia is crossed by three international airways. Sukhum airport is recognized as one of the most technically advanced in the territory of the CIS countries, thanks to its facilities, and was permitted twenty-four-hour operation. Sukhum airport is not operational yet though there are plans to relaunch it in Summer 2009.
'''Visa to Abkhazia''' Those who wish to travel to Abkhazia are kindly requested to fill out and send Abkhaz visa application form directly to the ministry of foreign affairs of Abkhazia [http://www.mfaabkhazia.org MFA of Abkhazia].
Visitors may use taxi for travel in the country. Many taxi companies provide special rate for sightseeng. There is a number of travel agencies providing excursions to mountains on jeep / four wheel drive cars. Due to economic sanctions Credit cards are not acceptable in Abkhazia. Dollars and Euros are accepted in official exchange offices which could be easily found in most of touristic locations. Sometimes visitors may pay with Dollars and Euros though for lower rate.
Abkhazia is a beautiful country with hospitable people and long and prominent history and culture as well as picturesque nature which makes Abkhazia a tourist popular destination. Abkhazia is a resort country laying on the Eastern Bank of the Black Sea with subtropical climate and snow covered mountains. Abkhazia attracts tourists with its beautiful nature and culture as well as beaches, caves, lakes and mountains. It is famous with its churches left from Meddle Ages and Christian heritage with the Saint Zealot buried in New Afon of Abkhazia. Masterpieces of the Ancient era and Middle Ages can be found throughout the country. Tourist_fs season starts in May and slowly lasts till October. Vacation prices in Abkhazia are fairly low and affordable.
Interesting destination for travellers to visit Novi Afon which is 20 min drive from Sukhum - the capital of Abkhazia. It is famous for the orthodox Cathedral (_N___r___z _@_____~, New Athos) and the Cave where there are 7-8 enormously large halls with thousands of wonderful of stalagmites and stalagtites. A special train takes you to the depth. Another attraction is Lake Ritsa high in the mountains and about 1 hour drive from the main road (M-27). On the other side of the lake Stalin`s Dacha (cottage) can be found. The shortest way could be by boat, but also available by road (5 km). The cottage is open for tourists in high season. Resort Auadkhara with natural springs. Weekly local flights from Sukhum airport can take you to remote village of Pskhu where tourists may enjoy fantastic vews of mountains and enjow local honey and meat. City of Gagra and Pitsunda is the most popular touristic destination offering most kinds of vacational services. There are historic places like village Moqua with Beautiful Cathedral and Ilor Church near Ochamchira.
Visitors can enjoy unique and peaceful rest in Abkhazia with the variety of vocational choices like ecotourism, gastro tourism, rafting and extreme sports, mountain jogging and snowboarding, diving and sky gliding, hunting and cultural and religious tourism.
Akud (bean souce), Abista (corn porridge with chees), varaity of meat and fresh greens. Abkhaz food is spicy.
Local wines:
Abkhazia is relatively safe country, but you should take some basic precautions encouraged in the entire world: Watch your bag or purse in touristic places, buses, trains and meetings. Keep your car locked when leaving it in touristic places. Do not leave your valuables like cameras jewelry or mobile phones on the beach when you go for a swim.
In case your mobile phone is stolen, the local cell phone company may help you to track it and in most cases telephones could be found if resold anywhere in Abkhazia.
Do not carry large amounts of money with you, unless needed.
Beware of pickpockets in market places or crowded buses. If you report a theft, people are generally helpful.
Don't hesitate to report crimes to local police.
In general, you must bear in mind that areas with a larger number of foreign visitors, like some crowded vacation resorts in Gagra, Pitsunda or Sukhum, are much more likely to attract thieves than places which are not so popular among tourists.
It is not recommended to visit bordering region with Georgia in the night.
Please keep dressed decently in public places. Abkhazia is a traditional country. Less clothing will cause less respect and too much attention of the local people.
The border with Russia is open for all visitors. Note: visitors entering Georgia from Russia through Abkhazia may be subject to a punishment and fines by Georgian customs since they consider it a violation of the Georgian border regime. Newly adopted Georgian Law on the occupied territories also prohibit visitors from enetring Abkhazia without permition from Georgian authorities.