Hello,
I am Levan Gogoladze, an economist by profession, but my hobby
turned into my venture - an adventure tourism business. My friend and now
long-time partner, Guram Dabashvili, and I decided to turn our hobby into a
business. Today, we operate 'Sveri Adventure Camp.' Our camp is situated in one
of the most beautiful areas of Zemo Imereti, specifically in the village of
Sveri within the Chiatura Municipality. The ideal natural conditions and
environment guided our business direction.
Let me provide some brief information to give you a general
idea. Our activities are divided into two main parts: (1) infrastructure within
the camp area, including guest accommodation and amenities like a kitchen, hot
water, and a canteen, and (2) various adventure tours.
When we learned that the European Union, Sweden, and Austria
were collaborating on a joint initiative, the GRETA project in the Zemo Imereti
region, I became immediately interested and obtained detailed information. We
regularly received updates about the project due to an intense regional
information campaign. During consultation meetings, the participants were given
necessary and highly beneficial information. I decided to participate in the
project because my concept and one of the project's goals - the development of
sustainable tourism in the high mountain regions of Georgia - were a perfect
match.
When submitting our application, our primary focus was on the
camp's infrastructure. We greatly appreciate the support of our donors in
implementing an efficient utility cost system, notably through installing solar
panels for water heating. Safety was a top concern, and we ensured it by
equipping the camp with fire safety gear and essential medical supplies.
Moreover, we expanded our accommodation choices by introducing 'Glamping.' We
also created various pathways, including internal paths, climbing routes to the
Glamping area, and access routes to the rock climbing area. We achieved a
significant milestone through generous donor support - transitioning towards a
green camp concept. This change entails minimising the consumption of
non-renewable resources, with the initial step being reducing utility costs
through solar panels.
Once we addressed the operational aspects of the business with
the assistance mentioned earlier, we began implementing broader and more
impactful initiatives. For instance, we initiated a waste separation program.
What sets our camp concept apart is our attainment of a self-sufficient
infrastructure, defining us as an authentic green camp.
Currently, we offer a
range of accommodation options, including tents, cottages, and glamping,
allowing us to cater to guests from different segments. I want to emphasise
that we have successfully attracted a new customer base, and the expansion of
our infrastructure has led to a notable increase in the number of tourists.
It's important to mention that we have effectively utilised the opportunities
provided by the GRETA project, particularly in enhancing our marketing efforts.
This support has strengthened our brand, significantly raising awareness and
credibility for our business.
In conclusion, I want to highlight that our example demonstrates
the potential to rejuvenate and redefine the region. The crucial step is to
recognise and utilise the potential of the area. Through dedicated effort, we
have achieved this transformation. Initially, there wasn't even a proper road,
but eventually one was constructed. This expansion provided employment
opportunities to the local community, and we take immense pride in this
achievement and believe it will mitigate the rapid process of internal
migration. Furthermore, I am eager to share our experiences with our local
neighbours. A similar revitalisation will likely happen soon in our area, like
what we achieved.
We are open to establishing new business connections, and you
can reach out to us through various social media platforms. You can find us on
Facebook under - ‘Sveri Adventure
Camp • სვერის სათავგადასავლო ბანაკი.’ You can find us on
several international accommodation platforms as well.
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With
the support of the European Union, Sweden and Austria, 68 small and
medium-sized entrepreneurs in the highland region of Georgia have received
substantial assistance for their business development.
Take advantage of the upcoming success stories, where incredibly
fascinating people will share their experiences with us.
Project GRETA | “Green Economy: Sustainable Mountain Tourism and
Organic Agriculture” is implemented by the Austria Development Agency in
Georgia with the support of the European Union, Austria, and Sweden. The
project aims to improve the business environment and create new income
opportunities in two important sectors of the Georgian economy, mountain
tourism and organic agriculture.
This material has been produced with the assistance of the
European Union, Sweden, and Austria within the framework of the GRETA
project. Its contents are the sole responsibility of the Austrian
Development Agency /GRETA Project and do not necessarily reflect the views of
the European Union, Sweden, or Austri
#68successstories
#EU #Sweden #Austria
#GRETAProject #forthedevelopmentofthemountaineconomy