On July 17, 2013, Consul Cunanan hosted a cocktail for travel agents and tour operators, journalists, and food writers and aficionados. The aim of the event was to promote Georgian cuisine and wine to Filipinos and market Georgia as a tourist destination. Georgia’s history, with its mix of Turkish, Russian, Persian, and Central Asian influences, has resulted in its exotic culture and gastronomic delights. The event was held in Paulie’s Wine Bar and Restaurant, Burgos Circle, The Fort, Taguig City. Among those who attended the event were Mike and Bim Zulueta of Interlink Travel Corporation, Marfee Dizon of Plenus Travel, writer and food blogger JJ Yulo, Food magazine Editor-in-Chief Nana Ozaeta, passionate foodies Gina and Mikeli Mapua, and Travel Bucket List organizer and founder Riva Galvez-Tan.

The group held a lively discussion about Georgia, with Consul Cunanan answering questions about the country’s tourism sights and culinary traditions. Today, Georgian food is becoming well-known all over the world. The country is also famous for its wines and is home to some very exquisite boutique vineyards. Wine is integral to Georgian culture and life and the tradition of vinting goes back over 5,000 years.

Interlink Travel Corporation and Plenus Travel are currently organizing the first food and wine tours to Georgia. The next activity for the group is a Georgian cooking and wine-tasting event scheduled for August 7, 2013.