Traveler of soul and heart

That’s when I realized I couldn’t keep this overwhelming sense of awe to myself, and I decided to gift my beloved a honeymoon there. Our journey began with a road trip around Georgia in an SUV. We wound through mountain switchbacks, feeling the exhilarating sense of freedom, stopping in the most remote places to enjoy the silence and peace of the surrounding nature. Every turn brought new impressions and emotions.

But Georgia is not only about mountains and valleys. It’s also about urban neighborhoods where ancient architecture meets modern life, and every street is steeped in the country’s spirit and history. We discovered the hospitality of the locals, immersed ourselves in the flavors and aromas of Georgian cuisine, and visited bustling markets. Day by day, I realized that this trip was more than just a vacation – it was a journey into my inner self. I became keenly aware that the world is vast and filled with countless wonders worth exploring.

Now I am a traveler in soul and heart, living in a world of uncharted paths and amazing lands. Twice a year, I cross the borders of my homeland to feel the breath of other cultures, immerse myself in their daily lives, and absorb the energy of new places. But even every weekend, I set out to explore new adventures across the endless expanses of my own country, unveiling its secrets and embracing its beauty and grandeur.

On everyday life

Peter Drucker, the father of modern management, once said: "Business has only two basic functions: marketing and innovation. Everything else is cost." This quote defined the trajectory of my career and revealed the full potential of my profession. I am a marketer.

This profession directly impacts a company’s results. The effectiveness of a marketer determines whether a business can successfully compete in the market and win not only the mind but also the heart of its target audience. And that inspires me.

About the Wild & Free project

Once, my friends and I were inspired by the idea of going to hard-to-reach nature reserves to capture the hidden treasures of our homeland and share them with people. But no photograph can fully convey the magic of these places. People wanted to see these landscapes with their own eyes, to feel the breath of nature, and this growing desire to share this unique opportunity with others evolved into the Wild & Free project.

Today, our community continues to grow in popularity, and I’ve been amazed to discover just how many people love trekking and wild hiking. Together, we are breaking new ground. For example, we’re planning to climb a peak over 5,000 meters above sea level. It’s outside our country’s borders and will be a real challenge – but we are ready to overcome any difficulties to offer people breathtaking bird’s-eye views.

Every year, our list expands with new locations. We explore not only remote corners of the planet but also find beauty nearby. That’s why we’re planning to climb the highest peak in Uzbekistan – Hazrat Sultan, which stands at 4,083 meters above sea level. This is driven both by our aesthetic cravings and our desire to awaken a love for nature in people’s hearts and to show how important it is to protect what surrounds us.

On the longest journey

I always try to dedicate at least two weeks to each trip, because anything shorter doesn’t allow you to truly feel the change of environment or embrace the charm of the place. My longest trips have been to Sri Lanka, Switzerland, and Portugal – each lasted more than two weeks. In Portugal, we even spent all the New Year holidays there, and the scale of celebration instantly shattered the myth that Europe mainly celebrates only Christmas.

On the most memorable trip

I believe every corner of the planet has something unique that will stay with you forever, but the most memorable trip for me was to Sweden. Stockholm is made up of many small islands, and we traveled between them on charming river ferries, which was a delight in itself. Gamla Stan (the old town) left a lasting impression, especially with its preserved medieval architecture and traditional dishes.

A trip becomes even more vivid when it turns into a culinary adventure. The flavor palette captures you from the first bite, and unfamiliar exotic dishes and refined drinks introduce you to the country’s culinary treasures, revealing new dimensions of pleasure. One such journey was to Phuket Island, where my boldest culinary experiment was trying crocodile meat. For those planning to visit Sri Lanka, I highly recommend dining at Sera restaurant at Shangri-La Hambantota – their lobsters and oysters are simply phenomenal.

Traveling solo and with family

To me, solo travel means challenging, extended hikes to great heights. I wouldn’t want to expose my partner to such risks. But if I ever decide to conquer Everest, my wife and I will have a rendezvous at the base camp in Kathmandu – she’ll arrive there by helicopter.

Traveling with my wife is a chance to live every emotion by her side. Together, we create memories that color our lives: we cross borders, explore unknown places, meet new people, and share every moment. These trips are not only joint discoveries but also a wonderful way to strengthen our bond.

On future plans

I’d love to drive to Norway in my own domestic car. This country is home to majestic fjords, mysterious glaciers, and untouched nature. In my view, nothing compares to a road trip through such terrain. It’s the freedom of movement, overnight stays in unbelievable places, scenic roads, and access to remote locations…

On precautionary measures

Anything can happen during a trip – no one is immune. But we can minimize risks: plan thoroughly, study the country and its laws, research travel guides, pre-book everything necessary, and don’t forget travel insurance.

It’s important to have emergency contact numbers on hand, and if you’re abroad, tourist police can be of great help. Their officers are trained to work with foreigners and can provide assistance, information, and direction.

Wherever you are, carry a first aid kit to help yourself or your companions in case of unexpected situations. And, of course, have copies of important documents and contacts of your loved ones.

I can say with confidence that attentiveness to detail, readiness to act, and taking proper precautions help preserve bright and unforgettable memories.

On dreams

In the depths of the blue ocean, where you meet the true power of nature, I dream of swimming with whales – to feel the strength and nobility of these majestic creatures and enjoy their infinite freedom. I want to journey with them into the amazing underwater world and hear the musical sounds they use to communicate.

My curiosity also drives me to swim with sharks, to feel the breath of these ocean guardians surrounded by fearless beings, and to witness the balance of the life cycle of nature’s wonders.

Another breathtaking spectacle opens before me: the northern lights. When green and purple rays flow across the sky, creating unique patterns and magical scenes, I feel like a tiny part of this celestial connection between nature and humankind.

Advice to readers

The essence of travel lies not only in the places you see but also in the process of exploration, the surprises, the encounters with interesting people, and the opportunities it offers for the soul and mind. Every journey is a chance to expand your horizons, gain new knowledge, and find yourself in this infinite world.

Look at the world with wide eyes, free from limitations and stereotypes: explore landmarks, dive into local culture, try new cuisine, meet locals, and give yourself the chance to feel and absorb the spirit of a place. That’s how we find true harmony, inspiration, and new ideas that make us better and happier.

So don’t hesitate or postpone your travel dreams. Let your imagination run wild, open a world map, and boldly set off on your own adventure. Leave your mark in every corner of the world and immerse yourself in its beauty and majesty, because in the end, it’s not just the places we visit but the journey itself and our inner transformation that make life so incredible.