The Juniors’ Field Trip to Vardzia

On a crisp autumn morning, the junior class of GZAAT got ready for an overnight adventure to one of Georgia’s most beautiful landmarks, the ancient cave city of Vardzia, followed by a visit to the Rabati Fortress. Packed with snacks and excitement, the class boarded the bus, ready to make long-lasting memories.

Everything was quiet until the first stop in Gori. The students took the opportunity to stretch, buy trip essentials and just take a breath of fresh air. An hour into the ride, everyone’s energy suddenly went up and so did the volume of the speakers. By the afternoon, the cliffs of Vardzia came into view and soon enough, the buses arrived at the destination. The hardest part of the road-trip was over, but another challenge awaited - going up the hill. While everyone was exhausted and dehydrated, Levan Ghambashidze assured everyone that they would come across spring water along the way, so the junior class got moving. 

With cameras in their hands, the class carefully followed the teachers into narrow passageways, trying not to fall. Some paths were so narrow that claustrophobic students had to be warned in advance. Despite all of this, the greatest challenge was coming down the ancient, unstable flight of stairs with shaky, tired legs. 

Finally, after a long, eventful day, the students were driven to the hotel, Vardzia Resort. After recharging for a couple of hours, everyone gathered in the yard. Some played a board game with Levan Ghambashidze, while others chose Frisbee with Anthony Schierman. At 7 PM, dinner was served and GZAAT students and teachers sat down together, eating eagerly and discussing their favourite moments of the afternoon. 

After a replenishing meal, the junior class was invited for a mini talent show. Nika Tughushi played piano and the girls sang along. The fun continued with Georgian Traditional dances, games, karaoke, and ended with a party. Our beloved librarian, Mariam, DJ-ing and dancing with the juniors, was one of the last ones to leave the dance floor. 

The next day, the trip continued with a visit to the Rabati Fortress. Upon entering, the students were captivated by the beauty of the place and snapped many photos to keep as memories. Alas, they eventually came across the famous pool where Levan Ghambashidze took a brave leap during last year’s junior field trip. Everyone gathered around the pool, took out their phones and video cameras, waiting for the second attempt. This year was no different and Levan yet again dipped his leg in, ending up with a wet shoe. However, compared to last year, he wasn’t the only one jumping over the pool this time. The growing chant for Mr. Anthony forced him to take a leap too, ending with a big splash as well. 

After visiting the castle, the class went to a traditional Georgian restaurant, adding to the spirit of the trip. After a long feast, many juniors joined in on the fun, playing Frisbee with Mr. Anthony again. 

The evening was approaching, soon marking the end of this field trip. However, the juniors made the most of the 3 hours left on the bus. Starting from Charades and ending with the loudest karaoke possible, they didn’t waste a single minute. The speakers were on maximum volume, while everyone sang their hearts out.

We also asked a few students on their experience:

“In my opinion, this was one of the best excursions we’ve had. The places were beautiful and we had a lot of fun in the evening with Tughushi playing the piano and Levan’s dance competition. On the next day, the trip back, the restaurant, and the memories on the bus were also unforgettable. I can’t wait for the Kazbegi trip.” said Giorgi Martiashvili, a junior. 

“The excursion was really fun, we had a great time. The sights were really interesting and we learned a-lot but also had plenty of fun playing games and singing songs.” said Tamar Tumanishvili, a junior.

It’s safe to say that the junior class made unforgettable memories with their friends and teachers and ranked this overnight field trip as the best field trip so far!

Written By Sopo Gordiashvili

Edited By Elene Papiashvili