Safety will be a hugely important factor for anyone looking for the next place to settle down for a few months or more and, as such, you will ask yourself whether Tbilisi is safe for remote workers. Thankfully, we can say that Tbilisi is safe for remote workers - with great security infrastructure and a low coronavirus case count, it is an increasingly attractive place to live and work remotely. Of course, it is important to know the customs, language and laws of every new place you visit, as this is likely to give you an advantage when dealing with any difficult situations or incidents that may arise.

Despite the fact Tbilisi is safe for remote workers, you should be aware that petty theft and crime is common in the city. As a foreigner, you are more likely to be a target and should take the necessary precautions. Particularly on busy public transport routes and crowded tourist venues you should take precautions as pickpockets may operate. It is always a good idea to keep a watchful eye on your belongings and never carry any valuables in your back pockets. If you carry your laptop around with you, you might want to consider using taxis instead of using public transport during peak hours.

In Tbilisi and the rest of Georgia you will find police stations to be helpful and often able to provide assistance in English. Despite general agreement that Tbilisi is safe for remote workers, you should be aware that some visitors in the city have reported falling victims to scams. The most common one - popular in all cities - consists of being overcharged for items at local stores, restaurants and taxis. To avoid this, we recommend always double-checking receipts and establishing prices well before accepting any service or closing a deal. Another scam some visitors have reported consists of being invited out for drinks or dinner by a local, only to then be forced to pay a large bill entirely at the end. We recommend exercising the usual good judgment in Georgia that is required when travelling in any major city.

Certainly on the most attractive things about Georgia and Tbilisi for remote workers is the access to incredible natural landscapes. It is really important for all visitors and Remote Workers to ensure their safety when visiting natural spaces - always do your research before traveling to a new area, and make sure you have the right health insurance for any activities you may undertake. If you go hiking in the Caucuses, beware of snakes frequently found along trails, and be extra careful on harder treks such as the one to Mt. Kazbek. You should acquaint yourself with Tbilisi’s earthquake protocol, and also ensure you have all the correct equipment and insurance if you decide to ski in one of the country’s many incredible resorts.

Socially, Tbilisi feels like a modern and cosmopolitan city. With a growing influx of expats and remote workers, the city feels tolerant and welcoming. Nonetheless, it is important for LGBTQ+ individuals to understand that the rest of the country is deeply religious and may not offer up the same levels of tolerance as other European countries. All individuals, and especially women, should observe proper etiquette when visiting religious sites also. A great tip in general is to learn some words in Georgian - this will definitely help you navigate any complicated situations and also demonstrate your interest and appreciation for local culture!

For more information about living in Tbilisi as a remote worker, check out our complete Tbilisi guide.