Travel to Upper Svaneti: A Father-Son Journey in Georgia's Caucasus
A father travels with his young son to Upper Svaneti, a mountainous region in Georgia near the Russian border, hoping to instill chivalry and toughness. The region, once known for its anarchic character and residents carrying Kalashnikovs, has transitioned into a destination for family pensions. The author recalls a friend who returned from Svaneti transformed into a macho with romantic success. His son, who excels at chess, flute, and football but lacks knightly manners, is the focus of this pedagogical trip. A waitress dismisses the idea that Upper Svaneti is part of Europe, highlighting local skepticism toward European identity. The article appears in der Freitag.
Key facts
- Author travels to Upper Svaneti, Georgia, with his seven-year-old son.
- Region is called 'crown of the Great Caucasus'.
- Twenty years ago, the area was anarchic and residents allegedly carried Kalashnikovs.
- Family pensions have since been established.
- Author's son plays chess, flute, and football but lacks chivalry.
- A waitress rejects the notion that Upper Svaneti is part of Europe.
- Trip has a pedagogical motive to teach the son toughness.
- Article published in der Freitag.
Entities
Institutions
- der Freitag
Locations
- Georgia
- Upper Svaneti
- Caucasus
- Russia