Explore the stunningly beautiful and complex countries of Armenia and Georgia and gain insight into the critical issues facing these countries straddling east and west. 

Armenia has always had an advantageous position in its geographic location between the great powers of the world. As an important center of the Hellenistic world, it had constant contacts with areas of Asia Minor, the Mediterranean, Iran, Turkey, Russia and Europe. Visit the capital of Yerevan, Armenia to meet with individuals who help us understand the complex politics of the region.  Explore quaint villages set in dramatic mountain settings and tour ancient sites enroute to Tbilisi, Georgia, a strategic city on the route between east and west Transcaucasia. Tour charming Old Tbilisi with its ancient, narrow streets, visit the famous fortified town of Sighnaghi, enjoy lunch and a tour at a local winery, and stop at significant historical  sites in the region. Throughout the tour meet with journalists, activists, academics and others who help use gain insight into the important political and social issues facing these two countries. 

Highlights:

• Attend a pre-departure call with Tbilisi-based journalist Joshua Kucera. 
• Meet Zhanna Alexanyan with Journalists for Human Rights, who will talk about the current Armenian government and the challenges posed by the protest movement of the opposition. 
• Hear from Martan Marashlyan, Co-founder and Executive Director of Repat Armenia, an NGO that assists with the resettlement of Armenia by diaspora Armenians.
• Experience dramatic landscapes and stunning ancient sites such as Geghard Monastery; Khor Virap, and Haghpat.
• Attend a discussion with staff from Georgia Today, an English language, independent weekly news provider. 
• Learn about Georgian wines during a lunch visit to a local winery. 
• See the itinerary for complete details.