This region, a crucial point along the ancient Silk Road, is rich in tourism resources, boasts warm and welcoming people, and offers an affordable cost of living. Situated south of the Caucasus Mountains, the area encompassing Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan presents three countries with three distinct characters.
With the reputation of being the “Mirror of the Caucasus,” every photograph taken here is stunning. The cost of living is incredibly low, almost on par with Southeast Asia, where you can enjoy a local meal for just a few dollars.
Armenia: A Mysterious and Fun Country
Yerevan
The capital city of Yerevan shimmers with gentle light under the sun, and with the vintage cars active on the streets, it has a nostalgic feel. This ancient city is brimming with new vitality. You can experience the relaxed local lifestyle in Republic Square. 
Or, you can browse for souvenirs at the Vernissage market, where jewelry, wood carvings, antiques, and more are available. It’s so interesting you could spend all day there!
Mount Ararat
Like Mount Fuji is to Japan, Mount Ararat is a sacred mountain for Armenians, holding the highest status.
Legend says it is where Noah’s Ark ultimately landed, and it is full of mystery and magic. However, for various reasons, it is now located in Turkey. When the weather is clear, the snow-capped mountains are surrounded by clouds and mist, creating a beautiful and imposing scene that is a paradise for photographers.
Lake Sevan
It’s hard to imagine such a stunning lake in a landlocked country. The blue sky and white clouds reflect on the lake’s surface, creating a breathtaking scene that truly earns it the name “Tears of the Caucasus.” Colorful wildflowers bloom freely, dotting the mountains and fields. With a gentle evening breeze, you may never want to leave.
In addition to the lake scenery, the ancient and austere Sevan Monastery stands tall and unyielding, exuding an aura of pride.
Georgia: God’s Forgotten Garden
Georgia has German castles, Swiss snow-capped mountains, and French vineyards. Every corner exudes a rich European charm. Yet, it’s not located in Europe! And rest assured when it comes to safety: Georgia is consistently ranked among the top ten safest countries in the world!
Tbilisi
There is perhaps no other city in the world that has such a mix of styles as Tbilisi. On one hand, there is the Old Town, repeatedly destroyed and rebuilt by war, showing traces of decay everywhere.
On the other hand, there is a modern, avant-garde feel that makes you feel like you have traveled to Paris or Milan. Standing atop Mount Mtatsminda, you see the Bridge of Peace resembling a blue shrimp lying on the Kura River that winds like a jade ribbon.
Old and new styles coexist beautifully. Tbilisi is like a glass of red wine that has been kissed by the sun, making you feel mesmerized.
Batumi
Batumi has long been a holiday paradise for Russians and Europeans, but is not well-known to many.
Here, you can find the low prices of Southeast Asia, yet everywhere you turn, there is European-style luxury and romance. With a 300-kilometer coastline, wide beaches, seaside resorts, mineral water spas, and giant steel statues that depict a tragic love story at night, you’ll find it hard to leave.
Sighnaghi
Sighnaghi is the smallest city in Georgia. Spend 24 hours living like a local in this fairytale town filled with the aroma of wine.
Savor the clay pot wine that has won over the French, find an outdoor restaurant, enjoy the delicious food and the gentle breeze. What more could you want?
Climb the 5th-century fortress walls where blue skies, white clouds, snow-capped mountains, and red-roofed houses create a masterpiece.
Georgian Military Road
Of course, you must experience the famous Georgian Military Road, a legendary highway with thrilling bends that awaken a self-drive traveler’s desire to conquer.
The Russia-Georgia Friendship Monument (now called the Gudauri Viewpoint) is also a highlight. Standing atop a high mountain, the monument is covered with vibrant murals. Below the monument is a valley with a pool of emerald water that resembles a giant gemstone, instantly capturing your attention.
The winding mountain road that follows is both beautiful and dangerous, with U-turns, steep inclines, and descents, making it a challenge!
Azerbaijan: “Mini Dubai” with Beautiful Women
In terms of well-drilling for oil, Azerbaijan is the origin point for Abu Dhabi and Dubai, going back millennia. But it’s far more than just oil! This “Land of Fire” has exquisite architecture and a relaxed, easy-going atmosphere that will amaze you! However, fewer than 1,000 Chinese tourists visited last year, so you should visit now before it becomes too popular.
Baku Old City
The Old City of Baku is peaceful and quiet, creating its own space amid the hustle and bustle of the city. Various styles blend together harmoniously. There are entangled Arabic patterns, Persian arches, Baroque balconies, and more.
Now, the smoke of war has long since dissipated, the aroma of naan bread fills the air, and locals are slowly enjoying their lives, as lazy as cats.
Flame Towers
Built over five years at a cost of $350 million, the three curved, blue-glass skyscrapers gleam during the day.
At night, the buildings, which are covered in LEDs, come alive with simulated flames, creating a dazzling display.
Heydar Aliyev Center
The white, folded, streamlined building soars into the sky like a giant spiral. This is a masterpiece by the design genius Zaha Hadid. Its fluid design resembles a smooth, ever-changing liquid, forming the most beautiful and charming skyline with the surrounding high-rises.
