Ilia

Unfortunately, Ilia couldn't accompany us as the guide and recommended a colleague 2 days before the start of our trip. His replacement, Bekar, was very knowledgeable and although we weren't able to complete the Kazbek ascent, was able to offer us a good replacement itinerary. We found communication with Ilia quite difficult and had to prompt him repeatedly for updates about the trip and itinerary.

Global warming is upon us. This trip was too late in the season, the snow was too warm and slushy. There was no hut to hut skiing as it was too late in the season. It was a Sunday start and Sunday finish trip, leaving 6 days between. The impression that we had from your accompanying written material is that the destination was half a day travel from Tbilisi . In actuality, the drive is 8 to 10 hours each way, which is a considerable amount of time in a one week holiday. The guide (Lasher) was excellent, the accommodation good, the people friendly.

Local guide Misha was excellent. Explore Share did not pay for sleeping bags as advertised, we had to rent these at location, not compensated, the sleeping bags and food were advertised to be transported by horse, this did not happen, also not compensated. One meal at mountain hut consisted only of one bowel of soup following 7 hour hike. Mountain it's self was great. Money also deducted from my credit card without prior authorisation by Explore Share. Disconnect apparent between Explore Share and guide regarding what trip consisted of.

Mestia in the Svaneti region will not remain an idem gem for long. It's got it all: alpine descents, all-you-can-ski powder and remote villages charged with history. Illia was a great guide both in and out of the slopes; safe, fun and knowledgeable. And do not worry about the food, it is amazing!

Ilia is a very calm, considerate and helpful guide who goes the extra mile to provide his clients with exceptional and unique experiences in his stunning Georgian mountains. His calm authority is exactly what's needed when the going gets tough or plans need to change unexpectedly. Humble yet more than competent I strongly recommend Ilia for any Georgian adventure.