Q & A: WOULD YOU RATHER GO FOR A HOLIDAY IN TURKEY OR ARMENIA?

The Messenger
June 13 2008
Georgia

"Between those two? I’d go to Turkey. There’s a nice seaside there
and also, Georgian monuments in Tao-Klarjeti, which one should
see. Turkey."

Ramaz, builder, 45

"I would go to Armenia, but that’s because I have relatives
there. Otherwise, I think Turkey is more beautiful."

Karlo, businessman, 54

"Turkey is nicer, but Armenia is closer. For two or three days,
it’s better to go to Armenia, for a longer period of time, Turkey."

Eka, artist, 32

"None, if I have a chance to go somewhere it wouldn’t be Turkey or
Armenia. Maybe it’s funny, but I’d go to Moscow. They have a crazy
lifestyle there."

Anano, student, 22

"I’d go to Turkey. There are more places to have a good holiday. I
like Turkey. I’ve seen it on TV and it looks great."

Mariami, schoolgirl, 17

"I wouldn’t go to either. I’d go to Batumi. I’m crazy about this
city. Why Armenia or Turkey? Don’t we have our own places? What’s
better than our own territories–Armenia or Turkey? But Georgians
are the kind of people who look at other people’s property and but
are blind when looking at their own."

Akaki, poet, 53

"What can a man do in Armenia? There is no sea there! Of course I’d
go to Turkey."

Irakli, musician, 27

"What a silly question! Turkey is one of the best places to rest in
summer: the sea is wonderful, it is close and not too expensive."

Karina, secretary, 36

"Well, Turkey is a bit expensive, and I don’t have much money. I’ll go
to Batumi or Kobuleti. Armenians themselves come to Georgia in summer,
why should I go there?"

Koba, video editor, 29