About the Journey 

John Graham *15 discovered the sacred chants and folk music of Georgia as an undergraduate student, and during the course of his Princeton doctoral studies became a global expert in this little-known musical tradition. Join him on a custom Princeton-exclusive journey through the extraordinary countries of Georgia and Armenia, going behind the scenes with curated special access to events and people in the political and artistic realm. Alongside Graham and his local connections, you‘ll gain unparalleled insight into these remarkable cultures. 

Begin in Yerevan, the bustling capital city of Armenia. Visit the 13th-century Geghard monastery, where the spear of Christ was kept for more than a millennium, and explore the pre-Christian Temple of Garni, Armenia’s only standing Greco-Roman colonnaded temple. Travel north to witness the country‘s alpine beauty, from the shimmering, high-altitude waters of Lake Sevan to the forested trails of Dilijan National Park. Marvel at the 13th-century Haghpat Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Venture next to Georgia, staying in the heart of Tbilisi’s ancient Old City with time to wander its churches, mosques, synagogues, carpet shops, and boutique cafes. Explore Mtskheta, cradle of Christianity in Georgia and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, including UNESCO-designated Svetitskhoveli Cathedral. Then travel to Kakheti, Georgia‘s rich viticulture region, stopping in the picturesque fortress town of Sighnaghi. Over the course of your adventure, enjoy musical encounters with singers and instrumentalists, and indulge in the unique dishes and homegrown wine of the Caucasus. 

Accommodation 

The Alexander Yerevan, Armenia 
The Alexander is the first luxury international hotel in the historic center of Yerevan, located a short walk from Republic Square. Each of the 114 guestrooms and suites features scaled back, minimalist design, gold accents and hints of decorative Armenian motifs. Hotel amenities include a sophisticated collection of bars and restaurants, spa, 24-hour fitness center, and indoor pool. 

Tufenkian Avan Dzoraget Dzoraget, Armenia 
Perched on the idyllic banks of the Debed river in Dzoraget canyon, Tufenkian Avan Dzoraget Hotel beckons with its medieval chalet allure crafted from basalt stone. The grounds of this boutique hotel include a serene garden, courtyard, lounge, indoor pool and hot tub, billiards, and a restaurant featuring traditional Armenian and Georgian dishes. 

Tbilisi Marriott Hotel Tbilisi, Georgia 
The Tbilisi Marriott is an architectural landmark with a unique, circular design. Step into the scene-stealing Great Room, the restored ceiling playing tribute to the hotel’s 1915 opening. Marble floors lead to the Parnas Cafe, where outdoor tables look onto Rustaveli Avenue. Enjoy in-house aged meats at Park Grill, or a nightcap at the Majestic Bar & Lounge. Each of the 127 rooms and suites blends smooth modernity with Georgian style touches, for a truly boutique feel. Hotel amenities include a fitness center and patio. 

Tsinandali Estate Kakheti, Georgia 
Located in the heart of Georgia‘s renowned wine country, Tsinandali Estate, A Radisson Collection Hotel, is a serene retreat amid the beauty of the Caucasus Mountains. The hotel features an outstanding rooftop infinity pool overlooking the mountains, a variety of restaurants, and a spa with sauna, steam room, and fitness club. Stroll through the historic 18-hectare park which also houses the Tsinandali Palace Museum of Prince Alexander Chavchavadze and enjoy on-site wine-tasting opportunities. 

Reservations 

Registration is not yet open for this journey. Please request a brochure or contact the Princeton Journeys team at journeys@princeton.edu / 609.258.8686 with questions.