A Croatian, Pole, Aussie, Greek and US PCV walk into this Spa...

I couldn't help myself with that title.  It really was funny.  I belong to a wonderful organization called Servas.  Servas is an international, non-profit, non-governmental federation of national Servas groups, encompassing an international network of hosts and travelers. The purpose of the network is to help build world peace, goodwill and understanding by providing opportunities for personal contacts among people of different cultures, backgrounds and nationalities. Some would call it a vetted couch surfing club for adults, but it is much more. 

Georgia Regional Servas Meeting
Servas Georgia had a regional meeting with visitors from 12 countries, most of which I still need to visit.  I was able to join them on my weekend off from the Center. It was a great weekend of getting to know one another and hearing more about cultures, travelling and issues in this part of the world. A lovely Ukraine family put on a presentation and musical recital. An Israeli member described how lovely and safe it is there. Russians explained how best to get around in their big country. I was fascinated, but had more to experience by our Saturday night adventure.

One of our Georgian hosts, in her lovely home

And a view from her home

Ukranian presentation

Georgian Sulphur Baths
You European/Asians can stop reading now.  You experience this all the time.  But I sure haven't. I have been wanting to go to the Georgian sulfur baths for the past year, but haven't had the opportunity. These ladies all seemed really cool, so I solicited members to come to the Baths in Old Town Tbilisi with me after our dinner Saturday night. And as I mentioned we had a broad delegation of Eastern Europeans, and Aussie and me thrown in for good measure. Fortunately several women knew the ropes and guided us through the steps of stripping, showering, soaking, and getting scrubbed down.  It was really relaxing and we had a great time.  The only BIG surprise was when our 'scrub down' lady came in and stripped too!  I guess she wanted to make us all feel comfortable, and it actually did.  It was just surprising to see your masseuse walk in naked. 

The baths were first documented in the 1st Century while discussing Roman plumbing

The baths were a tradition that quickly caught on, helped by the city’s historic position at the epicenter of the Old Silk Road. By the 13th century, there were 63 of these domes. 

Here's a before picture, no after pictures allowed.  I feel it safe to say all our visitors had a great time in Georgia, and our Georgian hosts were most delightful - spending countless hours planning, hosting, and coordinating.  

Peace Corp goal #3 is to share Georgian culture with Americans.  Well I am doing that this weekend, with Americans and with lots of other cultures as well. 

Check out more about Servas through this Ted Talk.