Introduction
This risk assessment outlines key considerations, safety measures, and preparations for a cultural school trip to Georgia. It aims to ensure that all participants have a safe, well-organised, and enriching experience while minimising potential risks.
General
- Local suppliers: All local suppliers are officially registered with the relevant Georgian authorities and hold the required licences and permits to operate. We work with long-established local partners who are experienced in handling school and educational groups, ensuring reliability, quality, and appropriate safeguarding standards.
- Physical activities: This is primarily a cultural and educational trip, with no strenuous physical activities planned. However, participants should be prepared for moderate walking, including walking on uneven surfaces such as cobblestones in historic towns and sites, as well as in mountainous areas around Kazbegi.
- Travel within the programme: As outlined in the programme, the group will be based in Tbilisi and will travel by coach to explore other regions and sites outside the city. Participants should be prepared for time spent driving, particularly on excursion days. The guide will organise regular stops along the way for comfort, rest breaks, and toilet facilities as required.
- Health and safety: Tap water is not recommended for drinking. Participants are advised to consume bottled water, which is widely available throughout Georgia. One bottle of water per person per day will be provided and available on the coach. Participants should ensure they remain well hydrated, particularly during warmer months, and be prepared for a different climate and cuisine. Basic hygiene practices should be followed at all times.
- Behavioural expectations: Participants must behave responsibly and respectfully, observing local laws, customs, and traditions. Any concerns, incidents, or doubts should be reported immediately to accompanying staff or local representatives.
Local hazards and safety considerations
- Safety: Georgia is generally a safe and welcoming country with a low level of violent crime. Locals are known for their hospitality and are usually helpful towards visitors. As with travel anywhere, participants should use common sense, stay with the group, and avoid unnecessary risks.
- Stray dogs can be a problem in Georgia, and participants should be aware that dogs may behave unpredictably and could be dangerous. Students should avoid approaching or feeding stray animals.
- Urban safety: While there are occasionally aggressive individuals in urban areas, such as some members of the Roma (Gypsy) community, encounters are rare. Participants should remain cautious in busy city areas and always stay with the group. Be aware of personal belongings at all times and keep valuables secure.
- Site-specific hazards: Some sites include specific hazards. Dashbashi Canyon has a high suspension bridge. Visitors must follow the instructions provided on-site and adhere strictly to safety guidance. Other than these specific cases, there are no unusual or significant dangers expected during the trip.
Transport
- Transport standards: All transport used for the group (coaches and minibuses) is modern, well maintained, and compliant with Georgian safety regulations. Vehicles are operated by licensed drivers with experience in transporting tourist and school groups.
- Road conditions: Road quality is generally good on main routes, though some rural or mountainous areas may have narrower or less developed roads. Travel times may vary depending on traffic and weather conditions.
- Reporting issues: Any transport-related issues should be reported to the guide immediately.
- Responsibility disclaimer: Our company cannot assume responsibility for delays or issues related to Uzbekistan’s railways or airways.
Accommodation
All accommodations are carefully selected, well reviewed, and appropriate for school groups. A final hotel list will be confirmed closer to departure. Sample accommodation may include:
All selected hotels will have good reviews and meet the necessary standards for comfort and safety.
Activities
- Cultural visits: Visits to museums, historical sites, churches, and monasteries are supervised at all times. Participants are briefed on appropriate dress and behaviour, particularly in religious sites.
- Free time: Free time, if included, will be limited, supervised, and conducted in safe, clearly defined areas. Students should remain in small groups and carry contact details for staff and guides.
Emergency Preparedness
- Medical facilities:
- Tbilisi: Several good private hospitals and clinics are available and accustomed to treating foreign patients and working with insurance providers.
- Other regions: Private clinics are available in major towns; serious cases may require transfer to Tbilisi.
- Emergency evacuation:
- Within Georgia: Patients will be taken to the nearest suitable medical facility or transferred to Tbilisi if required.
- Back to home country: Assistance will be provided in coordination with insurance providers and embassies in serious cases.
- Transport and equipment: All transport vehicles are insured and equipped with basic safety equipment. Hotels and public venues comply with local safety regulations. Guides are trained to respond appropriately in emergency situations.
Authority and Behaviour Management
- Responsibilities: Teachers and accompanying staff retain full responsibility for student behaviour and welfare. Local guides support supervision during excursions and provide logistical and cultural guidance.
- Behavioural rules: All participants must follow the instructions of trip leaders, teachers, guides, and local suppliers at all times. Serious misbehaviour or medical conditions that endanger the group may result in removal from the tour without refund.
Insurance
- Mandatory insurance: All participants must have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical treatment, accidents, and emergency evacuation, minimum cover 30,000 GEL ($11.000, £8.500). The policy must explicitly cover Georgia. Insurance is a mandatory condition of participation.
- Costs and coverage: Medical treatment and evacuation costs are the responsibility of the participant and their insurer. Local representatives will assist with coordination and communication as needed.
Emergency Medical Contacts
Dial 112 (national emergency number). Emergency services in Georgia are centralised and generally responsive, particularly in urban areas. Patients are typically transported to the nearest appropriate hospital or emergency care centre. In life-threatening situations or where international evacuation is required, assistance is coordinated through insurance providers and relevant embassies.
