#georgian military road

[alexxx-malev]

Georgian Military Road. Krestovy pass Военно-Грузинская дорога. Крестовый перевал

[batri-jopa]

Greetings from Georgia once again!😘

My second day in Georgia is over and I'm already worried about coming back home...

I can't imagine how I will ever survive without accidentally hearing Ratchuli at least twice a day?🥺

(I remember how hard I was trying to translate Ratchuli to get its meaning in the movie And The We Danced / და ჩვენ ვიცეკვეთ (2019) - and right now it appeared to me that words are not as important as the fact that this music simply makes you want to spontanically dance on the street!😂 and it really does🥰)

Okey, have some landscapes from Georgian Military Road now:

Most worth mentioning:

Jvari Monastery with a view at river Mtkvari joining with Aragvi

Rivers White Aragvi and Black Aragvi - joining but not mixing their waters (and my finger)

Zhinvali Reservoir and Ananuri Castle:

Mount Kazbek / ყაზბეგი (dormant stratovolcano, 5054 metres), near Gergeti Trinity Church / გერგეტის სამების ეკლესია (you know the one from all these cult classic photos?)

Russia–Georgia "Friendship" Monument (yes, it feels improper nowadays, but still it's interesting as a piece of art with a lot of georgian cultural symbols. Not to mention that the view around it is breathtaking❤️).

And mountains all around, majestic and Autumn colored!😍

[dato-georgia-caucasus]

Dmitri Ermakov - Georgian Military Road

[paragliding-guide]

Looking for a new and unforgettable experience? Look no further than a paragliding tour in Georgia with SkyAtlantida team in Gudauri. Our experienced pilots, Dmitry and Anatolii, will take you on a thrilling ride through the skies. We begin our tour at 7:30 am, leaving from Tbilisi and embarking on a scenic two-hour drive along the famous Georgian military road. Upon arrival in Gudauri at 10:00 am, you will have the pleasure of meeting our renowned pilots. Depending on the weather, we take off at 10:15 am in tandem with our instructor, allowing you to experience the real thrill of paragliding. We guarantee an unforgettable adventure that will leave you breathless. At 4 o'clock in the afternoon, we will return you to Tbilisi, where you can reflect on your incredible experience. Don't miss out on this opportunity to soar through the skies and book your adventure today by following the link in our profile description #paragliding #gudauriparagliding #paraglidinggudauri #paraglidingingudauri #georgiaparagliding #paraglidinggeorgia #tandemparaglidinggeorgia #georgiatandemparagliding #gudauritandemparagliding #tandemparaglidingingudauri #paraglidingincaucasus #caucasusparagliding #georgiagudauriparagliding #paraglidinggudaurigeorgia #paraglidinggeorgiagudauri #paraglidingcertifiedinstructor #certifiedparagliding #certifiedparaglidinggeorgia #certifiedparaglidinginstructor #tandemparagliding #paraglidingtour #paraglidingtourgeorgia #skyatlantida #skyatlantidaparagliding #skyatlantida_tours #gudauriadventure #paraglidingkazbegi #kazbegiparagliding #paraglidingstepantsminda #stepantsmindaparagliding (at Georgia Paragliding with SkyAtlantida Team) https://www.instagram.com/p/CqW9lS9ouIW/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[safestsephiroth]

I was born in alaska (which has one of the weirdest 'non-accents' you'll ever hear), moved to northern indiana and then to the south, and all of them have had an impact on my speech. Amusingly (perhaps), I listened to so much canadian media that I ended up incorporating a *little bit* of montrealer stuff and internet stuff too.

alaska explanation: there is not an "alaskan accent" because the population is too small, too spread out and the vast majority of people living there are in One City (anchorage) and a huge, HUGE chunk of those people either haven't lived there terribly long and are seasonal/military workers, or come from such widely diverse accented places that there's not really a consistent accent beyond what gets taught in the schools.

I've seen people try to do this really *really* hick like, georgian accent for alaska and it's really not like that. nobody talked like that when I was there.

Meanwhile, in northern indiana (age 11), my grandparents in the sticks didn't use the word "saw" for anything but a carpenter's saw ("I seen them coming down the road" "I seen that coming" "I've seen better days") and it drove me fucking NUTS. Everyone called Coke products "pop" and I wanted to strangle them with how much the word is "soda" and how fucking dumb "pop" sounded to me.

The closer-to-the-city family instead spoke with what I realize now is a Chicago accent and when I get especially heated that can come out as a very powerful defensive thing, but the chicago accent doesn't really sound the way it's often portrayed in media - that seems to my understanding to be closer to a boston accent than Chicago. Chicago accent's fucking weird to identify though because it doesn't sound like... anything to me.

fast forward to Oklahoma, and the language is so much more relaxed. There's a lot of change in how things are emphasized and how different they mean in different places. In Indiana, "are you *fucking* kidding me" is a furious exclamation, like, "I'm about to draw a knife", whereas in oklahoma it's generally said as "Are ya fucking KIDDING me?!" the way some people would use "NO WAY THAT HAPPENED" or "EXCUSE me?" or "I can't BELIEVE they did that!" etc. Very "I'm listening to you and OH MY GOD what the FUCK".

Profanity is slung a lot more freely in Oklahoma than it was there, or at least it is in ways that are more casual and less aggressive. There wasn't much casual "fuck you" in Indiana, though that may also be an age thing.

I stand by the word 'y'all' being a good, important word that has friendliness baked in its genetic code.

there's not a lot of the 'traditional' south-isms here, we don't have 'bless your heart' or anything like that. But at the smaller diners, the wait staff still say 'honey/darling' and I got 'sugar' as an identifier once. Which was bizarre to me.

rb this and tell me what ur accent is. this has no purpose except the fact i just realized i could have like... mutuals with cockney accents or newfoundland accents or something and thats just wild

[dev20raj]

The Best NDA Coaching in Delhi: Your Road to a Promising Military Career

Do you want to enrol in the prestigious National Defence Academy (NDA) as a young aspirant in order to serve your country? If so, you probably already know about the challenging selection procedure, which requires not only exceptional academic performance but also a compelling demonstration of both physical and mental toughness. Selecting the appropriate coaching institute might be crucial in this cutthroat environment. Known for offering the best NDA coaching in Delhi, welcome to Georgians Academy for Professional Studies (GAPS) SSB.

[satgurutravelae]

Discover the Best Things to Do in Gudauri, Georgia: Your Ultimate Winter Getaway from Dubai, UAE

Planning a trip to Georgia? Gudauri is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for an unforgettable winter experience. Known for its thrilling winter sports and breathtaking mountain views, Gudauri is perfect for travelers seeking Georgia’s natural beauty, especially in the winter season. For visitors from Dubai, various travel packages make it easier than ever to explore this stunning destination.

Here’s a look at the top activities in Gudauri that will make your holiday one to remember!

1. Hit the Slopes at Gudauri Ski Resort

When it comes to skiing in Georgia, Gudauri Ski Resort is the crown jewel. Located along the historic Georgian Military Road at an altitude of 2,196 meters, this resort boasts 57 kilometers of ski runs with varying difficulty levels, making it ideal for both beginners and seasoned pros. Seven ski lifts transport visitors up to 3,300 meters, giving you access to stunning mountain views and perfectly groomed slopes. The fresh powder snow and a dry climate make Gudauri an ideal ski destination during winter.

For travelers from Dubai, direct flights to Tbilisi make Gudauri just a scenic drive away, allowing you to start your holiday with ease. Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, your journey to Gudauri will be as memorable as your time there.

2. Try Year-Round Adventures at White Rabbit Snow Park

White Rabbit Snow Park, situated at 2,700 meters, is a versatile destination in Gudauri offering activities all year round. During the winter, the park’s well-designed terrain is perfect for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts, whether you’re a beginner or advanced. Summer visitors can enjoy hiking around the picturesque lake originally constructed to support snow-making.

With its modern facilities and stunning surroundings, White Rabbit Park is an ideal spot to add a little extra adventure to your holiday. Some holiday packages include White Rabbit Park, making it easy to enjoy this experience.

3. Experience Thrills with Heli-Skiing

For those craving a high-adrenaline experience, heli-skiing in Gudauri is hard to beat. The adventure begins as a helicopter takes you up to untouched slopes in the Greater Caucasus Mountains, where you’ll have pristine snow all to yourself. Heli-skiing season usually runs from late December to March, depending on snow conditions, and packages range from all-inclusive experiences to simple bookings.

Travelers should book their heli-skiing tour in advance. This unique experience ensures unforgettable memories as you glide down secluded mountainsides with panoramic views all around.

4. Admire the Natural Beauty of the Aragvi River

The Aragvi River is a fascinating natural attraction you won’t want to miss. Known as the Black and White River due to its unique merging of muddy grey and clear blue tributaries, the Aragvi River stretches 112 kilometers through the Caucasus Mountains. This scenic wonder can be spotted on the drive from Gudauri to Tbilisi and makes for a beautiful photo stop.

If you’re seeking adventure, the Aragvi River is also known for white water rafting. With local guides providing the equipment and safety measures, rafting along the Aragvi River is a fantastic way to add excitement to your Gudauri itinerary.

5. Take to the Skies with Gudauri Paragliding

Imagine soaring above the Caucasus Mountains with only the wind beneath you. Gudauri Paragliding Center offers one of the most exhilarating ways to experience the beauty of this region. Paragliding flights typically last between 15 and 45 minutes, allowing you to see rugged mountain peaks, deep valleys, and endless landscapes from a bird’s-eye view.

Paragliding is available year-round, but the best time to go is between June and September. Several travel packages include paragliding options, so book early to secure this thrilling experience.

Why Gudauri Should Be Your Next Travel Destination

Gudauri is the ideal winter getaway for travelers looking to escape the heat of Dubai and enjoy snow-filled fun with breathtaking views. With various Georgia holiday packages from Dubai available, you can enjoy all that Gudauri offers—from thrilling ski slopes to peaceful hikes and unforgettable paragliding flights.

Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a nature lover, Gudauri has something for everyone. Ready to book your dream vacation? Start exploring Georgia holiday packages from Dubai today and plan your perfect winter escape to Gudauri!

[classicalhighways]

S3 - E 117 - Georgian Military Road between Tbilisi and the Russian border, Mtskheta-Mtianeti Region, Georgia by Plamen B

[warningsine]

Georgia is “returning to the past” through the new foreign agents law, the president of the former Soviet state has said, as EU ministers urge the government to “take a way out”.

Speaking at a press conference with the foreign ministers of Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia and Iceland, Salome Zurabishvili said the governing Georgian Dream party had diverted the country down a “very serious” road.

After 30 days of protests by hundreds of thousands of people on the streets of the Georgian capital, Tbilisi, MPs voted on Tuesday by 84 to 30 to back the adoption of a “foreign influence” law.

Under the legislation, media or civil society groups in Georgia that receive more than 20% of their funding from abroad will have to register as “organisations serving the interests of a foreign power”.

Washington’s assistant secretary of state Jim O’Brien had spoken on Tuesday of the vote being a potential “turning point”, with the legislation holding the potential to be a tool to repress dissenting voices.

He had warned Georgia’s prime minister, Irakli Kobakhidze, that his government would lose hundreds of millions in military and economic aid if it became an “adversary and not a partner”.

Zurabishvili said the policy of Georgian governments since the non-violent Rose revolution against Soviet-style rule had been to take a “middle road” between the west and Russia.

She said the government’s latest actions had been a shift and a “return to the former past” but insisted that the protests on to the streets of Tbilisi proved that Georgians “will never return to Russian pressure”.

The European Commission has said that the legislation is an obstacle to Georgia’s accession to the EU.

Lithuania’s foreign minister, Gabrielius Landsbergis, said the Georgian prime minister should accept a presidential veto of the law, adding that mere amendments would not suffice.

He said: “It is still not too late. We have heard from the madame president that she plans to veto and this will offer him a way out, an opportunity for the government to withdraw this unfortunate legislative initiative altogether.”

He added: “There should be no illusions that prospective amendments to this law may make [it] ‘democracy- or EU-proof’. This law is not compatible with European choice. You cannot fix something that is fundamentally broken.”

Kobakhidze had suggested on Tuesday that amendments could be on the cards once he had received further legal advice on the new law, including from the Venice commission, an advisory body to the human rights organisation the Council of Europe.

Marija Pejčinović Burić, the Council of Europe’s secretary general, issued a statement on Wednesday condemning the law.

She said: “The adoption at the third reading of the draft law ‘on transparency of foreign influence’ by the parliament of Georgia, without waiting for the opinion of the Venice commission, is very disappointing and does not reflect the spirit of constructive dialogue.

“Regrettably, international partners’ concerns regarding the draft law’s incompatibility with European democratic and human rights standards were ignored, while the lack of genuine parliamentary deliberations is not in accordance with an inclusive democratic process.”

Despite the condemnation from Washington and many EU capitals, the EU’s foreign affairs chief, Josep Borrell, only made a statement on Wednesday – nearly 24 hours after the vote.

Viktor Orbán’s government in Hungary blocked an initial draft that would have been in the name of all 27 member states. Hungary had the support of the Slovakian government led by the populist Robert Fico, who is seeking to introduce a similar piece of legislation on foreign influence.

In the belated statement, Borrell, and the EU’s neighborhood commissioner, Olivér Várhelyi, called for an end to the intimidation of protesters.

They write: “The EU stands with the Georgian people and their choice in favour of democracy and of Georgia’s European future. The intimidation, threats and physical assaults on civil society representatives, political leaders and journalists, as well as their families is unacceptable,” they said.

“The European Council granted Georgia the status of a candidate country on the understanding that the relevant 9 steps set out in the Commission recommendation of 8 November 2023 are taken. These steps require human rights to be protected and civil society as well as media to be able to operate freely. They also refer to the need for depolarisation and the fight against disinformation.”

Borrell and Várhelyi noted that ��the EU has clearly and repeatedly stated that the spirit and content of the law are not in line with EU core norms and values.”

[flairyourtrip]

Your Perfect Georgia Itinerary for 8 Day's

ITINERARY:

Day 01: Dubai Departure - Arrival at Tbilisi Start your journey with a smooth transfer to Tbilisi International Airport from Dubai after a delightful breakfast. Upon arrival in Tbilisi, our friendly representative will greet you at the "Arrivals" section, holding a board with our company logo and your name. You'll be escorted to your hotel for check-in, allowing you to unwind and recover from jetlag, preparing for an exciting adventure ahead.

Day 02: Tbilisi-Mtskheta (NS-Tbilisi) Embark on a fascinating journey starting at 9:00 AM, meeting your guide and driver in the hotel lobby. Explore the iconic Jvari Monastery, a majestic architectural wonder perched atop a cliff overlooking Mtskheta, the ancient capital of Georgia. Marvel at the harmonious blend of nature and architecture as you take in breathtaking views of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers. Continue your exploration to Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, steeped in rich history and religious significance. Delve into the legacy of Georgia's past rulers and the enduring spirit of Christianity. In Tbilisi, immerse yourself in the city's charm, visiting Metekhi Church, the historic Rike Park, Narikala Fortress, and Sulphur baths. Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Meidan Square, adorned with quaint cafes and souvenir shops. Conclude the day with a visit to the Chronicles of Georgia, offering picturesque vistas and insights into Georgia's cultural heritage.

Day 03: Tbilisi-Gudauri-Kazbegi (NS-Tbilisi) Embark on an enchanting journey along the Georgian Military Highway, venturing towards the Russian border. Witness the beauty of Jhinvali Water Reservoir and Ananuri complex, adorned with ancient churches and towers. Experience the mesmerizing spectacle of two mountain rivers merging in vivid hues, and savor the purity of mineral springs in Mleta. Arrive in Gudauri and traverse the Cross Pass, pausing at the "People’s Friendship" viewpoint for panoramic vistas of the Caucasus mountain range. In Kazbegi, ascend to Gergeti Holy Trinity Church via a rugged four-wheel drive, soaking in the awe-inspiring views of Mount Kazbegi. Return to Tbilisi, reflecting on the day's adventures.

Day 04: Tbilisi-Kakheti-KTW-Bodbe-Sighnaghi (NS-Tbilisi) Embark on a delightful journey through Kakheti, starting with a visit to a traditional winery in Paterdzeuli. Explore the sacred Bodbe Monastery, believed to be the final resting place of Saint Nino, who introduced Christianity to Georgia. Discover the enchanting town of Sighnaghi, known as the "City of Love" and a pivotal stop on the Great Silk Road. Wander through its fortified walls, adorned with 23 towers, and savor the charm of its cobblestone streets and panoramic views. Conclude the day with a return to Tbilisi, enriched with memorable experiences.

Day 5: Tbilisi-Prometheus-Martvili (NS-Batumi) Embark on a scenic journey to Batumi, commencing with a visit to the verdant Batumi Botanical Garden, boasting a diverse array of flora from around the world. Explore the vibrant city of Batumi, renowned for its captivating architecture, palm-lined promenades, and vibrant nightlife. Stroll through Europe Square, marvel at the Alphabetic Tower, and admire the poignant sculpture of Ali and Nino. Ascend the Batumi Ferris Wheel for panoramic views, and immerse yourself in the lively ambiance of Piazza. Conclude the day, leaving with cherished memories of Batumi's allure.

Day 6: Batumi-Local Tour-Botanical (NS-Batumi) Embark on another day of exploration in Batumi, beginning with a visit to the renowned Batumi Botanical Garden, a haven of biodiversity spanning 111 hectares. Delight in the diverse flora from nine phyto-geographic regions, curated by eminent botanist Andrey Krasnov. Explore the vibrant cityscape of Batumi, brimming with architectural marvels, lush greenery, and cultural gems. Discover Europe Square, the Alphabetic Tower, and the poignant sculpture of Ali and Nino. Ascend the Batumi Ferris Wheel for panoramic views, and immerse yourself in the charm of Piazza. Conclude the day, captivated by Batumi's unique blend of nature and culture.

Day 7: Batumi-Uplistsikhe-Mtskheta (NS Tbilisi) Embark on a captivating journey to Uplistsikhe, the ancient rock-hewn town dating back to the first millennium BC. Explore the labyrinthine caves and structures, witnessing traces of Georgia's rich history and cultural heritage. Journey to Mtskheta, visiting the iconic Jvari Monastery and the revered Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance and architectural splendor, culminating in a deeper appreciation of Georgia's cultural legacy.

Day 8: Departure Conclude your memorable journey with a leisurely morning in Tbilisi, savoring the last moments of your Georgian adventure. After breakfast, check-out from your hotel by 12:00 PM, leaving your luggage in the lobby for convenience. Bid farewell to the enchanting city as your driver escorts you to Tbilisi International Airport for your departure flight.

[alexxx-malev]

Georgia. Georgian Military Road. Ghudi gorge Грузия. Военно-Грузинская дорога. Гудское ущелье

[realtorjamier]

Making Your Military Move: Neighborhoods Near Military Stations!

The DMV area is home to several major military bases – Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines – with many on-base housing options. However, for those families who choose to live off-base, there are loads of alternatives. Here’s a brief overview of some of the areas that surround Andrews Airforce Base, Fort Belvoir, and Fort Meade. 

And when it is time to relocate, CENTURY 21 Redwood Realty has more than 150 military-certified relocation agents who can help you buy, sell or rent. Not only will these professionals guide you through the entire process, they know how to help you get the most financial gain from your move.

Joint Base Andrews spans over 4,000 acres in Prince George’s County, Md., and has an on-base residential property population of approximately 2,600 people. 

Greater Upper Marlboro

Located in Prince George’s County, Greater Upper Marlboro (the county seat) has a population of around 20,000 people, but the census divides the area into several smaller designated places. The median home value is $376,400.

This area is a mix of urban and rural. The town itself is small and quaint. Family entertainment includes:

Watkins Regional Park with an authentic, hand-carved and restored turn-of-the-century carousel, miniature train ride, putt-putt golf, a playground, and camping;

Six Flags America (nearby), a theme park with more than 100 rides, games, shows, and attractions;

Montpelier Farms, a working farm featuring activities, festivals, and a farm market.

Clinton

With a population of 38,760 at the time of the 2020 census, Clinton is home to the Surratt House Museum, a Maryland-National Capital Park, and Planning Commission facility. Built in 1852 as a middle-class farmhouse, its interesting ties to John Wilkes Booth make it doubly worth a tour.

Oxon Hill

Named for a colonial 18th-century manor home overlooking the Potomac River, Oxon Hill had a population of 18,791 at the time of the 2020 census. The original manor house burned down, but a large neo-Georgian-style home was built in its place in 1929 and is owned by the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission and is used for special events.

Oxon Hill is also the location of the National Harbor development, a large mixed-use community with residential units, hotel rooms, retail space, upscale dining, and entertainment. The MGM National Harbor Resort Casino is located at the entrance of this development.

Oxon Hill’s family fun includes the Oxon Cove Farm educational facility and the Henson Creek hiker-biker trail.

Other attractions in nearby Fort Washington include:

Rosecroft Raceway (“the Raceway by the Beltway”) which offers harness horse racing;

The Henson Creek Golf Course;

The Tucker Road Athletic Complex with swimming and ice skating.

Fort Belvoir is located in Fairfax County, Va., halfway between Washington, D.C., and Richmond, Va., making it ideal for tourists who are interested in history as it is close to national parks, museums, monuments, and more. For those who work at Fort Belvoir but choose to live off base, Burke, Lorton, and Alexandria are popular choices.

Burke and Lorton, Va.

The 2020 census lists Lorton as having a population of 19,844. The median home value at that time was $463,767. 

Burke’s 2020 census shows a population of 42,806. The median home value in Burke is $537,032.

The Lorton VRE station is served by the VRE Fredericksburg Line which runs between the city of Fredericksburg to the south and Washington’s Union Station to the north.

The Lorton Amtrack station is the northern terminal for Amtrak’s Auto Train which runs between this station and the Sanford station in Sanford, Florida.

Special attractions include the 218-acre Burke Lake and Lorton’s Workhouse Arts Center (a former prison!) which provides 300 performances, 12 gallery spaces, hundreds of classes, and several large-scale community events. 

Alexandria

According to the 2020 census, Alexandria’s population was 160,146 — the sixth largest city in Virginia. The median home value at that time was $545,000.

Historic Alexandria is perfect for those who appreciate the arts, culture, outdoor activities, and entertainment. 

Nearby George Washington’s Mount Vernon is the most visited historic home in the U.S., but there are also so many other historic sites here, as well as an abundance of restaurants, wineries, breweries, entertainment, and cultural events.

Located between Washington and Baltimore, Fort Meade is located in Anne Arundel County, Md. Surrounding neighborhoods include the communities of Odenton, Laurel, and Columbia.

Odenton

According to the 2020 census, Odenton’s population was 42,947. The median home value at that time was $337,700. 

Odenton’s school system is ranked above average, and Bowie State University and Anne Arundel Community College are both nearby. Odenton offers natural entertainment in the form of parks. The Patuxent Research Refuge is nearby and offers fishing, wildlife observation, hiking, and biking.

Because Odenton is located just 19 miles from Baltimore and 15 miles from Annapolis, there’s also great proximity to historic sites, diverse dining venues and entertainment, but Odenton also has four main shopping centers as well as an ice rink, golf center, go-kart raceway, athletic club, and more. The Odenton MARC station makes this a great place for commuters to live. 

Laurel

Located in northern Prince George’s County, Laurel’s population was reported as 42,947 in 2020 and the median home value was $337,700.   

The City of Laurel’s Department of Parks and Recreation maintains more than 200 acres of parkland (19 park sites) which includes playgrounds, pavilions, athletic fields, trails, tennis courts, pools, basketball courts, and more. 

A couple of unique highlights located in Laurel include:

The Maryland Jockey Club, known for world-class Thoroughbred horse racing.

Dinosaur Park, a fenced area where visitors can join paleontologists in searching for early Cretaceous (145 to 66 million years ago) fossils.

Columbia

At the time of the 2020 census, Columbia’s population was 104,681. The median home price was $385,900.

Located in Howard County, this planned community opened in 1967 and consists of 10 self-contained villages that were designed to enhance its residents’ quality of life in terms of human values (attempting to eliminate racial, religious and class segregation), rather than economics, and engineering. 

Lakes Kittamaqundi and Centennial offer boating and fishing. The Rocky Gorge Reservoir offers hiking, horseback riding, and fishing.

The public schools are rated highly, and Columbia consistently earns a spot in Money Magazine’s “Best Places to Live in the U.S.” list, ranking first place in 2016.

If you’re in the military and it’s time to move, it’s important to find an agent who not only knows the neighborhoods around each military station, but according to CENTURY 21 Redwood Realty’s Director of Relocation Services, Tina Bodolosky, it’s also advantageous to work with a real estate professional who is trained specifically to help members of the military.

The Military Relocation Professional (MRP) certification program educates REALTORS® about working with service members and their families as well as veterans to find housing solutions that best suit their needs. They can also help you take full advantage of available benefits and support.

One such benefit, says Tina: “We offer cash back programs of up to $8,000 when you buy or sell a home through our Navy Federal Realty Plus or Military Rewards programs and utilize one of our background checked and military relocation certified agents.”

[dato-georgia-caucasus]

Georgian Military Road

[nevebennett-viscom]

I was looking at reasons that people travel there in order to see if people go for purposes of seeing mythical things or what their story is about what is so special about the area since I found alot of information about people finding it a spiritual place and traveling there in order to kneel at the side of the river which I thought was interesting, since If it was for religious reasons, a pilgriage is a very clear narrative and journey.

lo1

[paulrennie]

Road Trip • Folkestone/Margate A256 • 2023

Round-about-Kent

The Taxonomy of the Modern Road

The big shock, says photographer John Myers, was the new landscape that emerged from that clearance (of industrial manufacturing enterprise during the 1980s)...of warehousing and logistics, and retail parks and enterprise zones, and tarmac (and roundabouts)

Introduction - Why Roundabouts?

The French cultural anthropologist Marc Auge, has described the roundabout in terms as a kind of carousel and regatta. Auge was mostly thinking of the large Parisian rond-points of l'Etoile and La Bastille which are distinguished by their absence of road markings and which provide for a particular kind of driving experience in which relative velocity and trajectory inform the drivers's choice.

The gyratory systems described by Auge provide for a kind of psychological shock to the driver and passengers deriving from the force-effect of deflection...so as to jolt the driver from the zombie-like dream-state associated with the endless highway and of segregated motorway driving.

Even the smaller roundabout provides a kind of deflection, or swerve away, from the usual trajectories of speed, associated with the trunk road or by-pass. The displacement, or movement, of machine and driver is both anxiety inducing and also exciting according to Michael Balint, and thus is fleetingly associated with feelings of desire... providing an exquisite form of counterpoint to the monotony of the motorway.

The roundabout also provides for a small patch of nature to flourish within the unprepossessing context of tarmac and vehicle emissions. Surprisingly and notwithstanding the evident dust and dirt associated with the road, nature appears to thrive upon the roundabout. They seem to provide for an unexpected oasis in the middle of the road.

The roundabout therefore combines both physical entity and psychological phenomenon. This combination of the prosaic and the sublime makes the roundabout especially interesting...

The Road

The route between Folkestone and Margate is not long. It's a little less than thirty miles between these two seaside resorts in Kent. In this relatively short distance, across country the road nevertheless passes across a number of distinct geographies: both physical and cultural...

The county of Kent is located in the south-east corner of England and is the nearest point, in Britain, to the European landmass. Accordingly, the principal historical characteristics of the area are derived from its border status and its military significance. Even today, these historical legacies are evident in the roman, medieval and Napoleonic fortifications that distinguish the area. More recently, the area around Folkestone provided the base for the air defences during the Battle of Britain 1940.

The social legacies attaching to this history remain a little more obscure but no less significant.

The Cinque-Port status of various seaside towns in East Kent ( Hythe, Dover, Sandwich) has given the local population a distinct sense of proud independence. These feelings remains evident across the coal fields of East Kent, and their associated villages, though which the road to Margate passes.

Our route begins in Folkestone, near Hythe, and passes through the Alkham Valley, before passing over the A2 and crossing East Kent to Sandwich. From there, the road goes north, past the Roman fort at Richborough and thence climbs to Thanet.

The landscape through which the road passes remains largely agricultural until the area around Pegwell Bay, which until recently was the site for the Richborough coal-fired power station. The buildings by the road are mostly late 20C. There are a few Georgian farmhouses and Victorian buildings: but the majority of roadside development has come in the last 50 years or so.

Nowadays, the modernisation of the road between Dover and Sandwich can be understood as providing a transport corridor to support large scale housing developments on what was, until recently, mostly open farmland. In Thanet, the road becomes increasingly cluttered around the retail sheds of Westwood Cross and its associated leisure facilities.

One of the entirely unintended characteristics of this modernisation is that the route between Folkestone and Margate is distinguished by a LARGE number of traffic roundabouts. We counted 29 of them. This is their story. There may be more now!

and Neo-Romanticism

For most of its 1000 plus years of history outlined above, the landscapes of East Kent were negotiated at the relatively sedate pace of foot, horse, bicycle and steam locomotive.

This changed dramatically in the period after WWl when there was the first large increase in motor traffic. The increase in traffic volume and its speeding-up began as an entirely practical phenomenon that reflected the growth and diversity of the post-war economy.

The poet John Betjeman was amongst the first to recognise that, alongside the evident practicalities of railway and motor car, these technologies also held the power to transform the landscapes through which they passed into a neo-romantic (psycho) geography that captured this experience through the combination of memory and feeling. This romantic sensibility was a 20C re-casting of the aristocratic romanticism that had flourished at the beginning of the 19C, and a powerful reminder of the unanswerable truth of our emotional engagement with environment.

The evident convenience of motor transport was enhance through this improving association with aristocratic sensibility: especially as the speed of the motor car made a there-and-back engagement with the Arcadian picturesque something that could be enjoyed simply and relatively inexpensively, and so as to return home in time for tea.

The place-markers documented conform to the traditional roadside church, inn and bridge.

In these circumstances, it's not surprising that a series of illustrated guidebooks for motorists were proposed. These books were elaborated as a series of County Guides for Shell Petrol. The guides were in their earliest form, spiral bound and photo-illustrated in black-and-white.

The kent guide was amongst the first of these guides, published in 1935. The County's proximity to London made it easily accessible to motor tourists. Betjeman was amongst the first to discover the coastal wilderness of Romney Marsh and its distinctive maritime architecture. The artists Paul Nash and John Piper both explored aspects of this local strangeness. For the film maker, Michael Powell, the landscape and geography of East Kent was familiar; he was born at Bekesbourne, in the Stour Valley, near Canterbury. Nevertheless, Powell remained sensitive to the increasing strangeness of the old ways during this period of modernisation. These traditions remained rooted in the history and rhythms of the countryside and provided, for Powell at least a powerful reminder of the past.

One of the great pleasures of travelling about East Kent is the opportunity to see the past from your motor car window. In this case, amplified through visual reference to the paintings of Paul Nash and the films of Michael Powell. Paul Nash would certainly have responded to the surrealist potential, and strangeness of the roundabout. More recently, the Folkestone/Margate route has been marked, at both ends, by the sculptures of Anthony Gormley.

and Subtopia

The modern traffic roundabout is usually identified as having originated, in Britain at least, at the Garden City of Letchworth. The traffic roundabout was proposed as a device for managing intersections where traffic volumes were likely to cause long delays. The roundabout was an attempt to keep traffic moving at a time when of increasing volume and speed of traffic. The traffic roundabout was an early visible manifestation of the expansion of the machine ensemble at the beginning of the 20C.

The Garden City movement promoted the expansion of the city into, first, the leafy-suburbs and, then, to further afield. The expansion of the city was understood as a means of reducing the unhealthy congestion of people within the existing metropolis. The expansion was entirely facilitated by the development of the transport systems associated with railway and motor car.

The roundabout also conformed to an understanding of shape and form as connected, in some way, to the specific values of progress and democracy. Nothwithstanding the progressive idealism of the Garden City's origins, the movement also pandered to a long-established and powerful middle-class feeling of anti-urbanism. By the 1950s, the architectural critic, Ian Nairn followed a route between Southampton and Carlisle, and elaborated a taxonomy of the road, deriving from the commercial exploitation of land and movement and the steady accretion of unsightly and confusing street furniture. In Counter Attack (1956),

Nairn presented a strategy for reclaiming subtopia through the removal of associated roadside clutter, and the progressive consolidation of activities to limit sprawl. Looking through the photographs in these books, you can see the ever-extending ribbon development along the roads of Britain. The roadside clutter of advertising, traffic management and street furniture is described as something which aggregates through continuous addition and that, eventually, produces an incomprehensible visual confusion.

For Nairn, the organisation of the modern road was almost all bad...the charming discoveries and associations documented by Betjeman and the neo-romantics had been obscured by the accretions of speed and profit. Interestingly, the roundabout seems conspicuous by its relative absence from Nairn's description. Perhaps traffic volumes had not yet, in the mid 1950s, reached the point of requiring these islands. Nor could Nairn have imagined that fifty years later, the extended development of the Garden City, combined with the degradation of the local bus services, would require every rural home to support two or more motor vehicles..In this sense, it is all too clear that the roundabout has become a manifestation of the viciously circular, and roundabout-shaped, relationship between sprawling development and increasing traffic volumes.

and the Modern Machines

In the 1970s roundabouts were relatively scarce. The 1950s world described by Ian Nairn persisted until the 1980s. Then economic and social transformations of that period reconfigured the roadside architecture as a series of post-industrial and civil-engineered elements. In the South-East of England, the development of by-pass roads, and double-garage executive estates has greatly increased the number of domestic cars on the road. The school run extended and expanded the rush-hour further.

The modern roundabout is a distinct physical manifestation of the sprawling development identified by Nairn. In Kent, the presence of the roundabout, especially on the route between Folkestone and Margate, is testimony to the relentless expansion of the automotive machine-ensemble.

The road and its hinterlands were described in more progressive terms through the I-spy books produced for children in the 1960s and 1970s. Against this background of speed and life, the observation of roadside detail seemed compelling, interesting and educational.

But the roundabout is also a profit centre for the civil-engineering industry and its associated manufacturers of street furniture and signs. Every roundabout comprises road and barriers, warning signs and direction signs and lighting. Taken together, these accretions reveal the greater cost of keeping us moving.

The closer association between movement and vision is characteristic of the specific image cultures that devolve from modernist progress. The road-side advertising poster, for example, was the first image made to be seen from a distance, and whilst moving. Photography, cinema and fine art have each attempted, in the course of the 20C, to keep pace with the machine and to replicate the experience of quickening excitement associated with the car. The psychological, emotional and cognitive experience of speed has created a special and distinct kind of modern delirium - a dizzying, spinning roundabout.

The modern roundabout has become, through its multiplication, a meta-physical manifestation and symbol of speed… accordingly, the system of the road, of which the roundabout is part, has become a consistent cultural frame within which the displacements of modern life can be understood.

In the US especially, the open road aligned with the foundation myths of westward expansion to provide for the road-trip in literature, cinema, photography and fine art. The role call of personalities associated with this documentation includes, amongst many others Jack Kerouac, Ed Ruscha, Robert Frank, William Eggleston, Wim Wenders, Jim Jarmusch and David Lynch. In the UK, our roads remain a little more prosaic (lacking the backdrop of the American sublime); but remain no less poetic, as evidenced in David Hockney's paintings of the rolling roads through the Yorkshire Dales.

Conclusion - Not Squaring the Circle

In film semiotics the roundabout exists as a kind of demented carousel, and is usually used for comedic effect. For practical purposes the psychological deflections implicit in the exaggerated and dizzying cornering of roundabouts is contained within the film-noirish and brutalist structures of multi-storey, or underground carparks. It need hardly be added that good things very rarely happen within these confines.

The psychological excitements and anxieties attaching to roundabouts are really the stuff of fairground rides, with all of the perceptual ambiguities and emotional equivocations that they imply. The modern roundabout is part of a system that speaks of speed, and at the same time just like the speed-bump, has turned into something associated with moving, but going nowhere.

Note on Safety

Photographing roundabouts is an activity which requires some care. Traffic is moving at speed and drivers are not expecting to see pedestrians in this context. Parking the car safely needs some thought and planning so as not to be too far from the roundabout and so as not to inconvenience other road users. Moving from the car to the roundabout, and finding the shot, require careful negotiation of street furniture, limited hard shoulder access, and fast moving cars.

We photographed these roundabouts so that you don't have to. Be careful, the road is dangerous.

Images by Karen with Rollei

Words by Paul

[ultraheydudemestuff]

Chester and Frances Bolton House (Franchester Farm)

1950 Richmond Rd.

Lyndhurst, OH

     The Bolton House is a Georgian style mansion located near Richmond and Cedar Road in Lyndhurst, Ohio. It was built in 1917 by architect Prentice Sanger for Chester and Frances Payne Bolton, both of whom served in the United States House of Representatives. The mansion was part of a 110 acre estate known as Franchester Farm, which included a herd of dairy Guernsey cows whose milk was sold commercially (the brand is now owned by Miceli Dairy Products in Cleveland). Frances Bolton's sister, Elizabeth Bingham Blossom, the wife of businessman and philanthropist, Dudley S. Blossom, built a Tudor home on twenty two acres next door. Both these houses were a part of an upscale community known as Mayfield Country Estates.

     Upon the death of her husband, Elizabeth Blossom tore down her elaborate Tudor home and built a Georgian house, which was eventually passed to her son Dudley Blossom Jr, and his wife Emily Elkins Blossom. The latter occupied the house until her death in 1991. That house was demolished in 1993. Following Frances Payne Bolton's death in 1977, the automotive and aerospace corporation TRW had purchased the Bolton estate and built a new headquarters on the property, but miraculously kept the Bolton house standing. In 2001 TRW was acquired by military contractor the Northrop Grumman Corporation and the building and former Bolton estate was sold to the Cleveland Clinic for use as their Lyndhurst Campus.

     The mansion is used for events, both by the Clinic and rented to the general public. In 2019 the Cleveland Clinic announced their intentions to close the Lyndhurst Campus and sell the former TRW Building as well as the Bolton mansion. This seems to be somewhat paused by current events but Clevelanders can all hold their breath for the fate of this lovely mansion.  The former gatehouse on the Chester and Frances Bolton House complex is located at the back of the Legacy Village shopping center in Lyndhurst. The complex was listed with the National Register of Historic Places on March 29, 1984.