Escape to Tbilisi: Paolo Inn's Unforgettable Georgian Charm
Escape to Tbilisi: Paolo Inn - My Chaotic, Cozy Georgian Getaway (and Why You NEED to Go!)
Okay, folks. Let's be real. Planning a trip to Tbilisi can feel like wrestling a khachapuri – delicious, slightly chaotic, and potentially overwhelming. But trust me, navigating the cobblestone streets and the language barrier is totally worth it when you stumble upon a gem like Escape to Tbilisi: Paolo Inn. I just got back, and I'm still buzzing with that post-Georgia-wine glow.
First things first: Accessibility (and my own clumsy adventure):
As someone who occasionally walks into lampposts (yeah, judge me), accessibility is important. Paolo Inn is pretty good here. They do have facilities for disabled guests, which is a HUGE plus in a city that’s not always known for its smooth sidewalks. There's an elevator – THANK GOD – and the staff is generally super helpful. They even helped me navigate a particularly steep hill with my suitcase when I arrived, bless their Georgian hearts. Honestly, just the fact they tried made me feel welcome. They didn't have a ramp at the entrance, but they were willing to offer assistance, and that counts for a lot.
Tech Talk & Keeping in Touch (Because Instagram is LIFE):
Listen. The world runs on Wi-Fi, and Paolo Inn gets that. Free Wi-Fi in every room? Yes, please! And it worked! I could actually upload those glorious pictures of mountains and food without wanting to throw my phone into the Kura River. Even in the public areas, the Wi-Fi was solid. Now, they also had "Internet [LAN]" – which, let's be honest, felt a bit 2002 – but hey, it's there if you need it. I stuck to Wi-Fi. Less wires, more wine.
Things To Do (Beyond the Obvious):
Okay, so Tbilisi is amazing. You will want to wander the Old Town, get lost in the sulfur baths (highly recommend, though possibly awkward without a bathing suit), and of course, eat. A LOT. But Paolo Inn itself offers some serious relaxation options. They've got a pool with a view. Seriously, imagine: sipping something bubbly, gazing over the city…heaven. They have a fitness center (guilt trip avoided!), a sauna, a spa, and even massage. I didn't try any of those… I was too busy eating khachapuri. But the pool? That I can vouch for. It was the perfect antidote to a day of exploring.
The Cleanliness and Safety Factor (Because COVID Isn't Over):
Look, the world is still weird. But Paulo Inn had all the right boxes checked. Anti-viral cleaning products, daily disinfection in common areas, rooms sanitized between stays. They even had hand sanitizer strategically placed, and the staff was wearing masks. They had individually-wrapped food options so you could feel safe even when you are eating. I felt safe. They even had staff trained in safety protocol. Honestly, it was a peace of mind I really appreciated because I'm always a bit worried when traveling.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking (My Favorite Subject):
Food in Georgia is a religious experience. Paolo Inn, thankfully, understands this. They have a really decent restaurant with a la carte and buffet options for breakfast (Western and Asian). There's a coffee/tea in restaurant, and a snack bar, perfect for a quick bite. I had the Asian breakfast and it was delightful. I’m really glad they had the bottle of water too; it was a life saver in the summer heat. This place isn't just about sleeping; it's about creating a pleasant environment to enjoy a good time.
And the big one: Room Service [24-hour]. This is a HUGE win. Especially after a long day of exploring, the ability to order food and not leave your room is golden. Plus, lets be honest, sometimes you just want to eat a cheese plate in bed.
Services and Conveniences (The Nitty Gritty):
They really covered all the bases. A concierge, luggage storage, laundry service, even currency exchange. They help you with the taxi service and airport transfer. They had a gift shop too - honestly perfect for last-minute souvenirs. They had a smoking area . They have an elevator so you don’t have to climb many stairs. The staff are super helpful.
The Room Itself (My Sanctuary):
Okay, the real kicker: the rooms. Cozy. Comfortable. Clean. They've got the basics: air conditioning, a comfy bed, a minibar, free Wi-Fi, a private bathroom. But it's the little things that make it special: bathrobes, complimentary tea, a hair dryer, nice linens. If you're planning a romantic getaway, they even have a couple's room. The windows open, which I loved for fresh air and feeling like I was really in Tbilisi.
For The Kids (Because Families Matter):
While I don’t have kids, the inn is family/child friendly. They have babysitting service and kids facilities. So, perfect if you’re traveling with the whole family.
Details, Details, Details:
- CCTV in common areas and outside the property: Safety first!
- Front desk [24-hour]: Always a plus.
- Non-smoking rooms: Essential for us non-smokers.
- Car park [car park on-site]: Super convenient if you're renting a car.
- Wake-up service: Because jet lag.
- Soundproofing: Crucial for a good night's sleep.
My Quirky Observation about the Inn's Pacing:
They didn't rush you. Every moment felt like a leisurely, luxurious breath. Everything felt effortless. It made it incredibly easy to be in the moment, to savor the meals, the rest, and the beautiful Georgian atmosphere.
The Emotional Verdict: I'M IN LOVE.
Listen. I travel a lot. I've stayed in fancy hotels and budget hostels. Paolo Inn strikes the perfect balance. It's got the charm, the comforts, and the crucial amenities, but it doesn't feel stuffy or pretentious. It's like staying at a friend's super-stylish, well-run house. You feel welcomed, relaxed, and ready to explore.
So, are there any downsides? Honestly, not many. Maybe the decor wasn't the most cutting edge (a little traditional, a little dated), but the overall ambiance more than made up for it. And hey, if you're looking for a perfect, flawless, Instagram-filtered experience, you might be disappointed. This is a place with character. A place with heart.
My Honest Recommendation (and a Pitch for You):
If you're looking for a place to escape the stresses of life, to immerse yourself in the magic of Tbilisi without breaking the bank, book Paolo Inn. You won't regret it. I'd go back in a heartbeat.
Here’s my pitch to you, in case you needed some extra shove:
Tired of the same old travel experiences? Craving something authentic, something charming, something…Georgian?
Escape to Tbilisi: Paolo Inn is waiting for you. It's not just a hotel; it's your cozy basecamp for exploring a city that's guaranteed to steal your heart (and your appetite).
Here's what you'll get:
- Unforgettable Georgian Charm: Think cobblestone streets, delicious food, and warm hospitality.
- Comfort & Convenience: Modern amenities meet traditional Georgian hospitality.
- Relaxation Guaranteed: Soak up the sun by the pool, unwind in the spa, and sleep soundly in a room designed for ultimate comfort.
- Authentic Tbilisi Experience: Proximity to the city, coupled with an authentic experience.
Don't wait! Book your escape today and discover the magic of Tbilisi with Paolo Inn!
Special Offer for our Readers:
- Book now and receive a complimentary bottle of Georgian wine upon arrival! (Offer varies)
- Use code "TBILISILOVE" to get 10% off your stay! (Offer varies)
Click Here to Book Your Adventure! (Link to their website) or use SEO: "Escape to Tbilisi: Paolo Inn" for more information. Don't just visit Tbilisi. Live it. And trust me. Paolo Inn is the place to start. You won't regret a single thing.
Kinmen's Hidden Gem: Piano Piano B&B II - Unforgettable Island Escape
Okay, buckle up buttercups! This isn't your sanitized, bullet-pointed travel itinerary. This is me, stumbling through Tbilisi, Georgia, fueled by questionable khachapuri and a desperate need for a decent espresso. And all of it, straight from the heart of Paolo Inn – which, by the way, is as lovely as everyone says. Let's dive in, shall we?
TBILISI, GEORGIA - A Messy, Glorious Adventure (aka, My Brain Dump)
(Pre-Arrival Anxiety – the Worst Part!)
- The Booking Hangover: Okay, first things first. I booked Paolo Inn weeks ago, and spent the week leading up to this trip oscillating between excitement and sheer, unadulterated terror. I'm a pro at dreaming up worst-case scenarios: what if my plane crashes? What if I get lost and eaten by bears (doubtful, but you never know)? What if the khachapuri isn't actually as good as everyone raves? (Spoiler alert: it is. Dear God, it is.)
(Day 1: Arrival & Initial Charm Overload)
Morning (and a Touch of Panic): Landed at Tbilisi International Airport. The passport control guy looked like he hadn’t slept since the Soviet era, but actually, he was quite nice. My luggage? Found it! (Small victory!) Taxi ride to Paolo Inn – the driver was a speed demon, weaving through traffic like a caffeinated bat. I clutched my chest and muttered, “Please, Jesus, let me live.”
Afternoon - Paolo Inn Bliss (Almost): Arrived at Paolo Inn. And… instant love. This place is so Instagrammable, it's practically a crime. The courtyard is overflowing with greenery, and the whole place smells like freshly baked bread. Check-in was smooth, except… the wifi password wouldn't work. The charming receptionist, Nana (yes, she’s lovely, everyone’s right), tried everything. Eventually, she just gave me a look that said, "Embrace the digital detox, darling." And you know what? I kind of did.
- (Rant, a Little Side Note): It's supposed to be a "boutique hotel," but seriously, the stairs. The stairs are treacherous. I'm on the third floor and my thighs are screaming, "We're not used to this level of exercise!"
Evening - Tbilisian Welcome: Wandered the Old Town (Shota Rustaveli avenue) Feeling lost, but charmingly so. Found a restaurant with outdoor seating, ordered some kind of meat stew (don't ask, didn't catch the name), and drank some local wine. It was… intense. The wine, that is. I swear, it hit me a little harder than it should have. Made friends with a few locals, who were super friendly and had me downing shots of chacha (the rocket fuel of Georgia). I vaguely remember singing karaoke (badly), and waking up at 3 AM with a killer headache and an overwhelming desire for water.
(Day 2: History, Khachapuri, and the Sauna of Doom)
Morning – The Sulfur Baths Saga: Today's mission? Conquer the legendary sulfur baths. The Abanotubani district’s bubbling, stinky, history-filled district. I did my research and ended up selecting a private room. The sulfur smell? Intense. It was the sort of smell that makes you momentarily question your life choices. But the experience was… surprisingly amazing. The water was supposed to have medicinal properties but I was more focused on not drowning. Getting scrubbed down by a woman who looked like she could bench-press a small car? A bit… intense. But left me feeling surprisingly reborn. (and slightly less smelly).
Afternoon: Khachapuri Mania – Part I: Walked a great deal. Found a recommendation for a specific Khachapuri place. The place was so crowded that I was certain it was a trap, maybe a tourist thing, but then I tasted it. Oh. My. God. The cheesy, buttery, eggy goodness! I nearly cried. I actually might have shed a tear. Don't judge.
Evening – The Fortress and the Prayer (and a Bad Feeling): Took a cable car to Narikala Fortress. The view was breathtaking, even though the cable car was a tad rickety. The sunset over Tbilisi, just perfect. Wandered into a church and lit a candle. Felt a sense of… peace, I guess? Followed by a nagging feeling that I'd forgotten something. (Turns out? My phone in a café. Gone. Vanished.)
- (Rant: The Phone Fiasco): Okay, here's where things went a little sideways. I'm now phone-less. Which means no Instagram, no Google Maps, and no way to call my mom to tell her I’m alive. I'm oscillating between fury and resigned acceptance. Did I leave it on the table? Did someone snatch it? I’m going to go with “someone snatched it.”
(Day 3: The Language Barrier Blues, and more Khachapuri)
Morning – Lost in Translation, and a Realization: Wandered around, trying to ask someone for directions. My Georgian consists of "Gamargjoba" (hello) and "Madloba" (thank you). This got me exactly nowhere. It's tough and no one speaks perfect English.
Morning- Second-hand Khachapuri (and regret): Went back to the first Khachapuri place -- because after such a bad day, you need something to cheer you up.
Afternoon - Stumbling Upon Something Found a little art gallery, or just a room with a couple of paintings and sculptures. Wandered around there for a good deal of time and tried to understand how they felt.
- (Quirky observation): Apparently a good number of Georgians don't feel comfortable with the camera.
Evening – The Search and the Stumbling… Spent the evening wandering back alleys. Lost. Hungry. Desperate. Went back to Paolo Inn and whined to Nana, who just smiled and gave me more tea. Bless her.
(Day 4: The Triumphant Return and Final Goodbyes (Almost))
Morning – The Phone Gods Smile: Found a new phone. Miracles happen! Back to a few more days.
Afternoon - A Bittersweet Farewell to Paolo Inn: Time is ticking and this stay is reaching its end. The sadness creeps in. I have to leave this place?
- (Emotional reaction): Hugged Nana a little too hard. The staff is the best.
(Departure – The Aftermath)
- The Hangover (of Life): Heading to the airport in a cab this time around. I look back and ponder my memories of this trip. As I step into my plane, I feel a complex mix of satisfaction, and an incredible need to take a nap.
Lessons Learned (and Other Random Thoughts):
- Khachapuri is life. Seriously.
- Georgians are incredibly kind. Even when you're a stumbling, phone-losing mess.
- Embrace the mess. Throw the itinerary away, ditch the plan, and get lost. That's where the real magic happens.
- Paolo Inn is as lovely as everyone says. Book. It. Now.
So yeah, that's my chaotic, wonderful Tbilisi experience. It wasn't perfect. It was messy and imperfect, but it’s exactly what I needed. And hey, I survived, learned a few things, and ate a truly shameful amount of khachapuri. That's a win in my book. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to find a good bakery and start planning my return trip…
Bandung's Chicest Studio: Gateway Pasteur Perfection! (Travelio)
Escape to Tbilisi: Paolo Inn's Unforgettable Georgian Charm - Frequently Asked & Hugely Opinionated Questions
So, is Paolo Inn really *that* special? Because, I've seen pictures...
Alright, look, let's be real. Pictures can be deceptive. They're all about angles, right? But Paolo Inn? Forget the angles. It's the *vibe*. Honestly, the pictures give you a hint, a whisper of the charm. They can't convey the sheer, unadulterated feeling of walking through that courtyard, the scent of baking bread mingling with the faint, lingering aroma of someone’s delicious Khachapuri. (Man, I'm already craving that cheese bread... more on that later).
I mean, yes, it's beautiful. Cobblestone streets, those balconies draped with hanging plants, the slightly wonky charm of the old Tbilisi architecture… but it's more than just pretty postcards. It's like stepping into a hug. A slightly tipsy, cheese-and-wine-fueled hug from someone you haven't seen in years.
Is it noisy? I'm a light sleeper and hearing the sounds of the city would keep me awake, so I guess is not the right place for me.
Okay, this is a valid concern. Tbilisi is a city that *lives*. And yes, old Tbilisi, where Paolo Inn resides, hums with life. You've got the occasional late-night chatter of people, the distant (and sometimes loud) music from a restaurant, the odd car horn. But, and this is a big but, the Inn itself feels surprisingly insulated.
I'm a light sleeper myself. I'm talking, 'the ceiling fan is too loud' levels of sensitive. But somehow, the thick walls and the interior courtyards at Paolo Inn create a surprisingly tranquil bubble. I'd suggest asking for a room away from the street, for extra peace of mind. And packing earplugs is always a good idea, because, let's face it, even the most idyllic place can get a bit noisy at 3 AM.
What about the breakfast? Is it any good, actually?
Breakfast. Oh, the breakfast. Okay, deep breath. It's not your standard, boring hotel buffet, that's for sure. Think fresh, local ingredients, prepared with obvious love and care. And here's the thing: this isn't just about the food, it's about the experience.
Imagine this: you wake up late (because, let's be honest, you’re on vacation, and you’re probably going to drink WAY too much Georgian wine the night before), you stumble down to the courtyard, eyes still bleary, and you're greeted by the smell of fresh-baked *Shoti* bread. They bring you a table full of cheeses, a beautiful homemade fruit jam, khachapuri (yes, more!), and some strong, black Georgian coffee. And you just, *melt*. It's the perfect start to a day of exploring.
Now, I will be honest, the service can be a *little* slow, but hey, you're in Georgia. Relax. Embrace the "Georgian time."
Are the rooms clean? Hygiene is important.
Yes, the rooms are clean. Absolutely. Let's get something straight: cleanliness is important. And Paolo Inn gets this. Everything is well-maintained, the sheets are fresh, and the bathrooms were spotless when I was there. I am a total germaphobe, the type of person who judges a place by its bathroom, and I honestly had zero complaints.
They take pride in the details and it's very appreciable. You are well-taken care of.
How's the location? Is it easy to get around and see the main sights?
The location? *Fantastic*. Paolo Inn is right in the heart of the Old Town. You're walking distance from all the major sights: the sulfur baths, the Narikala Fortress, the peace bridge, the crooked clock tower etc. You can get lost for hours wandering the narrow streets, discovering hidden cafes and artisan shops. It is honestly the best location if you want to experience the city properly.
Plus, it's easy to grab a taxi or use Bolt (the local Uber) if you need to go further. And if you get lost... well, that's part of the fun, isn't it?
I read you have to climb a lot of stairs to get to your room. Is this true? I have mobility issues.
Okay, this is an important one. Yes, there are stairs. A lot of stairs, especially if you're on an upper floor. Old Tbilisi is built on hills, and the Inn reflects that. It's part of the charm, but also part of the...workout. Seriously, I was in great shape when I left the country. (That's probably the wine talking).
I recommend contacting the Inn in advance about your mobility concerns. They are very accommodating, and they can definitely try to assign you a room on a lower level or perhaps even give you a room that is adapted. Don't risk straining yourself. Make sure and ask them!
Did you have any bad experiences while staying there?
Yes and no. Oh, things aren’t perfect, and I AM a cynical person. The internet could be a *little* spotty at times (but hey, you're not there to stare at your phone, right?). And on one occasion, the hot water ran out. (Georgia has a history of water and electricity issues, so be prepared for that; it's part of the adventure!).
But honestly, these were *minor* hiccups. The overall experience was so overwhelmingly positive that I’ve forgotten about them. I'd go back in a heartbeat. The good FAR outweighs the bad. These are problems I had to deal with everywhere. Like most parts of the world, it's not going to be perfect. And that's okay!
So... what's the bottom line? Would you actually recommend Paolo Inn?
Absolutely. Unequivocally. Without a shadow of a doubt. Paolo Inn isn't just a place to stay; it's an experience. It’s a warm embrace from a city that’s bursting with charm and personality. It's the perfect base for exploring Tbilisi.
For me? It’s the best place I've ever stayed. The memory of the breakfasts, the atmosphere... I cannot recommend it enough. Just go. Seriously. Book it. You won't regret it.
