Timeless Treasures

Unveiling the Hidden Gems of Armenia and Georgia

Detailed Description

Overview

Difficulty
Comfort
Kakheti   Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti   Tbilisi   Imereti   Adjara   Mtskheta-Mtianeti   Armenia   Guria   Shida Kartli  
Destination
Discovery
Tour type
May — October
Period
15 days
Duration
6-12
Group
12+
Age
GT012
Program code

Embark on a mesmerizing journey through the breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and timeless history of Armenia and Georgia, two captivating countries nestled in the heart of the Caucasus. On this 15-day adventure, you will wander through ancient cities, explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and delve into the unique traditions that define each nation. Discover Armenia, the world's oldest Christian country, with its stunning landscapes and deeply rooted history. Experience the wild beauty of Georgia, a land of rugged mountains, ancient history, and diverse cultures.

Throughout the tour, you will have the opportunity to savor exquisite local cuisine, sample delectable wines, and learn about the distinct cultures and traditions of these enchanting countries. This unforgettable journey will leave you with memories to last a lifetime and a profound appreciation for the soul of the Caucasus. Join us to uncover the hidden wonders of Armenia and Georgia!

Itinerary

Day 1 — Welcome to Yerevan

Our team will greet you at Zvartnots International Airport and escort you to your hotel for some rest. Overnight in Yerevan.

Route: Yerevan

Accommodation: Included Alba hotel Yerevan * Or similar | Hotel |

Meals: breakfast: not included, lunch: not included, dinner: not included

Guide: Not included

Day 2 — Yerevan: Older than Rome!

Today, we explore Yerevan, one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities, by strolling through its old central streets. We will visit the Erebuni Historical & Archaeological Museum-Reserve, which highlights the history of Yerevan's establishment. We then explore the Matenadaran Museum of Ancient Manuscripts and learn about the rich Armenian tradition of carpet weaving at the Megeryan Carpet Factory. The day concludes with a brandy degustation. Dinner and overnight in Yerevan.

Route: Yerevan

Activities: City Walking | 3 hours , Sightseeing | 3 hours

Accommodation: Included Alba hotel Yerevan * Or similar | Hotel | Comfortable accommodation, private WC & shower

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: not included, dinner: not included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Erebuni Archaeological Museum, Matenadaran, Megerian Carpet Factory.

Day 3 — UNESCO World Heritage Site: Geghard Monastery

We begin our journey to discover the cultural and natural wonders of Armenia. Our first stop is the iconic Garni pagan temple, followed by a hands-on experience learning how to make Lavash, a traditional Armenian bread. We will also visit the natural monument Garni Gorge and the UNESCO World Heritage Site Geghard Monastery. Overnight stay in Yerevan.

Route: Yerevan — Private car | 40 km · 1 h — Geghard Monastery — Private car | 45 km · 1 h 30 min — Yerevan

Activities: Masterclass | 1 hours , Sightseeing | 3 hours

Accommodation: Included Alba hotel Yerevan * Or similar | Hotel | Comfortable accommodation, private WC & shower

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: not included, dinner: not included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Geghard Monastery.

Day 4 — Discover Birds-Cave

Our day starts with a visit to the ancient Khor Virap monastery, offering breathtaking views of Mount Ararat. In the wine-making village of Areni, we will enjoy a wine degustation amid marvelous mountainous landscapes. We then visit Areni 1 cave, where a 5,500-year-old shoe was found, and Noravank Monastery, surrounded by surreal landscapes. Overnight in Yerevan.

Route: Yerevan — Private car | 120 km · 2 h — Noravank Monastery — Private car | 130 km · 2 h 30 min — Yerevan

Activities: Wine Tasting | 1 hours , Sightseeing | 3 hours

Accommodation: Included Alba hotel Yerevan * Or similar | Hotel | Comfortable accommodation, private WC & shower

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: not included, dinner: not included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Areni Cave.

Day 5 — Monasteries of Armenia

We begin at the beautiful Sevanavank Monastery, followed by a cheese tasting (fermented with wine and Armenian cognac). Next, we visit the city of Dilijan and Haghartsin Monastery, an exquisite example of the fusion of nature and architecture. Our final stop is the ancient Lori Berd Fortress. Dinner and overnight stay in Odzun.

Route: Yerevan — Private car | 210 km · 3 h 45 min — Odzun

Activities: Sightseeing | 3 hours

Accommodation: Included B&B Odzun * Or similar | Guest House | Twin or double room, shared WC & shower on the floor

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: not included, dinner: included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Sevanavank Monastery, Haghartsin Monastery, Lori Fortress.

Day 6 — From Armenia to Georgia

Today, we visit Odzun Basilica and the UNESCO World Heritage Sites Haghpat Monastery and Akhtala Monastery in Armenia. We then cross the Sadakhlo border into Georgia and head to the capital. Dinner and overnight in Tbilisi.

Route: Odzun — Private car | 60 km · 1 h 30 min — Sadakhlo — Private car | 80 km · 1 h 30 min — Tbilisi

Activities: Sightseeing | 2 hours

Accommodation: Included Old Meidan Tbilisi by Urban Hotels * Or similar | Hotel | Comfortable accommodation, private WC & shower

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: not included, dinner: not included

Guide: Half day

Visited Attractions*: Haghpat Monastery, Odzun Church, Akhtala Monastery.

Day 7 — Exploring Tbilisi and Mtskheta

Our Tbilisi tour showcases iconic sights such as pedestrian streets, main churches (Anchiskhati and Sioni), Meydan Square, and the sulfur baths district. We take a cable car to Narikala Fortress and the Mother of Georgia statue for a photo opportunity with a stunning panoramic view of the city. We wrap up the tour in Sololaki, the district of wealthy merchants and artists. In the second part of the day, we visit Mtskheta, the spiritual heart of Georgia. We experience the essence of Georgian soul at the awe-inspiring Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and climb a small mountain to Jvari Monastery for a stunning view. Dinner and overnight in Tbilisi.

Route: Tbilisi — Private car | 60 km · 1 h — Mtskheta — Private car | 30 km · 1 h — Tbilisi

Activities: City Walking | 3 hours 30 minutes , Sightseeing | 4 hours

Accommodation: Included Old Meidan Tbilisi by Urban Hotels * Or similar | Hotel | Comfortable accommodation, private WC & shower

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: not included, dinner: not included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Narikala Fortress, Sioni Cathedral, Jvari Monastery, Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, Meidani Square, Sulfur Baths, Mother of Georgia, Sololaki District, Anchiskhati Basilica, Jumah Mosque, Metekhi Church, Rike Park, Rustaveli Avenue, Bridge of Peace, Freedom Square.

Day 8 — Savor the Flavors of Kakheti: Georgia's Wine Region

Today, we venture to the enchanting Kakheti region, celebrated for its winemaking. En route, we pause at the Gombori Pass to soak in the captivating mountain vistas at Kakheti's gateway. Next, we explore the bustling Telavi market, showcasing a colorful array of fruits, vegetables, and regional specialties like Kakhetian oil, churchkhela, and tasty nuts. Our journey continues to the renowned Tsinandali Estate, where we stroll through tranquil parklands, visit a historic Georgian cellar, admire Prince Alexander Chavchavadze's elegant residence, and taste the estate's exquisite wines. Following a delightful lunch, we uncover the picturesque Bodbe Monastery and then head to the region's crown jewel: the romantic city of Sighnaghi, aptly known as the "City of Love." Meandering through its quaint narrow streets, you'll soon grasp the charm behind its moniker. Dinner and overnight stay in Sighnaghi.

Route: Tbilisi — Private car | 95 km · 2 h — Telavi — Private car | 70 km · 1 h 30 min — Sighnaghi

Activities: Sightseeing | 3 hours , City Walking | 2 hours , Wine Tasting 45 minutes

Accommodation: Included Hotel Brigitte * Or similar | Hotel | Comfortable accommodation, private WC & shower

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: not included, dinner: not included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Bodbe Monastery, Tsinandali Palace, Sighnaghi Wall, Telavi Bazaar, Giant Plane Tree, Monument of Erekle II.

Day 9 — Delve into Georgia's Heart: Gori

Following a delightful breakfast in Sighnaghi, we journey to Shida Kartli, the heart of Georgia. Our first stop is the museum commemorating one of Georgia's most notable figures: Stalin. This intriguing visit segues into our exploration of the remarkable cave city of Uplistsikhe, a significant stop along the ancient Great Silk Road. Dinner and overnight stay in Gori.

Route: Sighnaghi — Private car | 190 km · 3 h — Gori

Activities: Sightseeing | 2 hours

Accommodation: Included Guesthouse Hestia * Or similar | Guest House | Comfortable accommodation, private WC & shower

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: not included, dinner: not included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Uplistsikhe, Stalin Museum, Gorijvari Church, Gori Fortress.

Day 10 — Unveiling Imereti's Treasures

Today, we uncover the marvels of the Kutaisi region. As we traverse from east to west Georgia, we'll lunch amid Kutaisi's enchanting scenery. We'll then visit the UNESCO-listed Gelati Monastery, admiring its ancient, exquisite frescoes. Next, we'll journey to Kumistavi Cave, or Prometheus Cave, to behold the captivating display of stalactites, stalagmites, petrified waterfalls, and subterranean rivers and lakes. Our adventure continues to Gordi, and if time permits, we'll cross the awe-inspiring suspension bridge at Okatse Canyon. Dinner and overnight in Gordi.

Route: Gori — Private car | 150 km · 2 h 45 min — Kutaisi — Private car | 90 km · 2 h — Zeda Gordi

Activities: Sightseeing | 4 hours , Caving | 1 hours 30 minutes , City Walking | 1 hours

Accommodation: Included Guest house in Gordi * Or similar | Guest House | Twin or double room, shared WC & shower on the floor

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: not included, dinner: included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Okatse Canyon, Gelati Monastery, Prometheus Cave, Bagrati Cathedral, White Bridge.

Day 11 — Svaneti's Jewel: Mestia, A UNESCO Gem

Embarking on a journey to the northern mountains of Svaneti, we'll visit Europe's largest dam and savor lunch amidst glaciers and majestic peaks. Our drive unveils mesmerizing alpine meadows, lush forests, and Svanetian villages with their iconic defensive towers. Upon reaching the charming town of Mestia, we'll immerse ourselves in the splendor of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Dinner and overnight in Mestia.

Route: Zeda Gordi — Private car | 5 km · — Mestia

Activities: Sightseeing | 2 hours

Accommodation: Included Mestia Plaza * Or similar | Hotel | Comfortable accommodation, private WC & shower

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: not included, dinner: not included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Enguri Dam, Mount Ushba, Mount Tetnuldi.

Day 12 — Ushguli: Europe's Loftiest Inhabited Village

We'll venture to Ushguli, Europe's highest inhabited village and a UNESCO-protected remote mountain community. Marvel at Shkhara, Georgia's tallest peak. Explore Svanetian culture through its distinct Orthodox Christian beliefs, visiting Svan towers, Lamaria Temple, and St. George's and Savior's Churches. Savor a village meal before heading back to Mestia for the icon or ethnographic museum. If time allows, ascend Queen Tamar's castle. Dinner and overnight in Mestia.

Route: Mestia — Private car | 45 km · 1 h 30 min — Ushguli — Private car | 45 km · 1 h 30 min — Mestia

Activities: City Walking | 3 hours , Sightseeing | 4 hours

Accommodation: Included Mestia Plaza * Or similar | Hotel | Comfortable accommodation, private WC & shower

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: not included, dinner: not included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Svaneti Ethnography Museum, Lamaria Church, Chazhashi Savior Church, Shkhara Glacier, St. George Church, Queen Tamar Castle.

Day 13 — Uncover Zugdidi's Rich Past: From Byzantine Roots to Bonaparte Ties

Leaving Svaneti's high mountains behind, we journey to the enchanting city of Zugdidi. En route, we'll stop at the captivating ethno-village of Sisauri to immerse ourselves in traditional Georgian culture. Post-lunch, we'll explore Zugdidi, taking in the magnificent Dadiani Palace, a historic landmark of the royal Dadiani family, which also houses Napoleon Bonaparte family relics. Dinner and overnight in Zugdidi.

Route: Mestia — Private car | 140 km · 3 h 30 min — Zugdidi

Activities: Sightseeing | 3 hours

Accommodation: Included Shogi * Or similar | Hotel | Comfortable accommodation, private WC & shower

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: not included, dinner: not included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Dadiani Palace, Zugdidi Botanical Garden.

Day 14 — Batumi: Seaside Retreat and Cultural Hub

Today, we journey to Georgia's coast, stopping first in Ureki to experience the unique black magnetic sand baths. Next, we head to Batumi, the capital of Adjara, where you can indulge in the famed boat-shaped khachapuri. After our meal, we'll explore this "Pearl of the Black Sea" with a city tour that includes a walk along the vibrant promenade featuring singing fountains, sculptures, towers, and modern skyscrapers, as well as visits to the charming old town and the European quarter, showcasing Art Nouveau architecture. Our tour concludes at the port, where the mesmerizing "Georgian Romeo and Juliet" show — a captivating sculpture of Ali and Nino — awaits. Enjoy your final evening in Georgia at leisure or pick up last-minute souvenirs. Dinner and overnight in Batumi.

Route: Zugdidi — Private car | 140 km · 3 h — Batumi

Activities: Sightseeing | 4 hours , City Walking | 3 hours , Swimming & Sunbathing | 1 hours

Accommodation: Included Old Town Batumi * Or similar | Hotel | Comfortable accommodation, private WC & shower

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: not included, dinner: not included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Ali and Nino, Batumi Boulevard, Alphabet Tower, Batumi Lighthouse, Piazza Square, Europe Square, Batumi Catholic Church, Batumi Fish Market.

Day 15 — Farewell to Georgia

As your journey concludes, our team will provide a seamless and stress-free transfer from your hotel to Batumi International Airport, ensuring you arrive with ample time ahead of your flight schedule.

Route: Batumi

Accommodation: Not Included

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: not included, dinner: not included

Guide: Not included

Our tour program's list of attractions is a guide, not exhaustive. Unlisted sites may be visited, and listed ones might be viewed from a distance. Conditions like operating hours, weather, or local rules may affect access. Thank you for your understanding.

Prices

This tour has open departure and can be organized based on your preferred dates. Remember, prices vary based on the exact group size.

From May 15, 2024 to Oct. 31, 2024

What's included?

Accommodation

11 nights — Comfortable accommodation, private WC & shower

2 nights — Twin or double room, shared WC & shower on the floor

Meals

14 breakfasts, 0 lunch, 2 dinners.

Guide

12 days — Full day, 1 day — Half day,

Transport

Private car: ~1745 km. *

Activities

Sightseeing: ~40 hours, City Walking: ~15 hours 30 minutes, Swimming & Sunbathing: ~1 hours, Masterclass: ~1 hours, Wine Tasting: ~1 hours 45 minutes, Caving: ~1 hours 30 minutes. *

Additionally included

Entrance fees to all sites according to the programm, Bread baking masterclass, English speaking guide, Wine tastings.

Not included

Plane tickets, Personal expenses and tips, Travel insurance.

The provided measures of total kilometers for transport, duration of guide services, and activities in our tour program are approximate and may vary depending on the program flow and terrain conditions. While we strive to ensure the accuracy of these numbers, please note that they are intended as estimates. We make every effort to provide the most precise information possible to give you an idea of the overall tour experience.

Note

Guide services can be provided in different languages, depending on the preferences of the group.
Please note that the indicated price is based on a group size of 8 participants. If the group size is smaller, the price can be adjusted accordingly.
If you're interested in extending the tour for more days, please let us know, and we'll be happy to provide options and prices upon request.

Equipment & Checklist

Summer in Georgia is a great time to visit both the lowlands and the mountains. The average temperature in the summer months (June to August) is around 25°C (77°F) in the lowlands and 15°C (59°F) in the mountains, although it can get quite hot during the day.

For this tour, it is recommended to bring lightweight, breathable clothing such as cotton t-shirts and shorts for the lowlands. If you plan to spend time in the mountains, it's a good idea to pack some warm layers such as a fleece or sweater for cooler evenings, as well as waterproof gear for unexpected rain.

Remember to check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly, as conditions can change quickly in the mountains. Enjoy your summer tour to Georgia!

Here's a comprehensive checklist for your summer tour to Georgia:

Accommodation

The accommodations in this tour offer a mix of traditional charm and modern conveniences, primarily in good and clean 2-3 star hotels with private facilities, with some nights spent in small, locally-run hotels or home-stays with shared facilities. All accommodations are located in excellent central locations. If a hotel name is marked with "* or similar," it means a similar hotel of equivalent or higher class may be provided based on tour dates, group size, and hotel availability. The itinerary section of the program description will specify the exact type of accommodation for each day.

Meals

Eating is an integral part of travel, and with Georgia.to, you will have the opportunity to savor the delicious cuisine that Georgia has to offer. While breakfast is included, some lunches and dinners may be held at local restaurants, giving you the flexibility to choose where, what, and with whom you want to eat. Although meals are not typically included in the trip price, food is generally inexpensive, with an average cost of 10-15 euros per person for dinner or lunch, including drinks. However, our group often eats together to allow for a diverse taste of dishes and for the enjoyment of each other's company, though this is not a requirement.

Transport

In this tour, all transportation is private and tailored to your group's needs. Depending on the size of the group, transportation options can range from a car, a mini-van, or a minibus. In areas with challenging road conditions, a 4x4 vehicle may be used to ensure a safe and comfortable journey. With private transport, you will have the flexibility to customize your itinerary and move around at your own pace.

Guides

Our group tour leaders are the most experienced and knowledgeable individuals with excellent English language skills. If the common language of the group is different, we can provide guides in other foreign languages by coordinating with our travel assistant team. The guide will be available to the group for the entire duration of the trip, and their exact availability is marked in the Itinerary section of the program for each day. Please refer to the Itinerary section to know how long the guide will be available on each day.

Money

In Georgia, the currency is the Georgian Lari (GEL). You can exchange money at banks, exchange offices, and some hotels. Small exchange offices are omnipresent throughout Georgia and offer competitive exchange rates. Your guide will be able to advise you on the best place to exchange money, as exchange rates may vary depending on the location. You can also check the current exchange rates on www.xe.com

Bank cards are widely accepted in restaurants, hotels, and shops, but it is advisable to have some cash as a backup, in case there are issues with local ATM machines or credit cards. However, it is possible that in remote villages, bank cards may not be accepted, so it is best to have some cash on hand. The most widely accepted cards are Visa and MasterCard. We recommend exchanging only small amounts of money at a time, as exchange rates can fluctuate frequently. It is also advisable to inform your bank in advance of your travel plans to avoid any issues with international transactions.

Money in Armenia

In Armenia, the local currency is the Armenian Dram (AMD). Currency exchange can be done at banks, exchange bureaus, or select hotels. Across Armenia, you'll find many small exchange offices that provide competitive rates. Your guide will be able to recommend the optimal place to exchange money, as rates can vary by location. To check current exchange rates, visit www.xe.com.

Credit and debit cards, particularly Visa and MasterCard, are accepted at numerous establishments such as hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it's wise to carry cash as a backup in case of difficulties with ATMs or card transactions. In more remote areas, card acceptance may be limited, making cash essential. When exchanging money, it's best to do so in smaller increments since rates can change frequently. Additionally, notifying your bank about your upcoming travel can help prevent issues with international transactions.

Tipping

The Georgia.to travel team, including guides, drivers, cooks, etc., are paid a fair wage and do not expect tips. If you choose to leave a gratuity as a way of expressing your satisfaction, please note that damaged or adhesive coins or banknotes cannot be exchanged. Tips can be left at your discretion in envelopes. In restaurants, it is customary to leave 5-10% as a tip.

Health

For your health and safety, it's important to be in good health before traveling to Georgia. Consult with a doctor or travel medicine specialist for recommended vaccines and preventive measures. To prevent insect bites and follow food safety measures, it's best to drink only bottled or treated water and be mindful of what you eat.

Bring enough of your prescription medicine and ensure that it is legal in Georgia if you have a pre-existing medical condition. A basic first-aid kit, including pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, and insect repellent, is also recommended in case of minor illnesses or injuries.

While Georgia has modern medical facilities in cities like Tbilisi and Batumi, it's still wise to have travel insurance in case of unexpected medical expenses. There are no specific health requirements for this trip, but it's important to prioritize your health and safety while traveling.

Visa Requirements for Georgia

Visa requirements for Georgia for foreign citizens vary depending on the country of origin. Citizens of most countries are eligible for a visa-free entry to Georgia for stays of up to one year. However, some countries require a pre-arranged visa, which can be obtained from a Georgian embassy or consulate. It is recommended to check the specific visa requirements for your country of origin before traveling to Georgia. Here is a short list of countries with citizens that do not need a visa to enter Georgia for a stay up to one year:

EU countries, including Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Germany, Denmark, Spain, France, Italy, Netherlands, Portugal, and more. Switzerland, United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Israel, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, South Africa, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Mexico etc.

Please find the exhaustive information on the Ministry of Foreign Affaires of Georgia website: https://www.geoconsul.gov.ge/

Visa Requirements for Armenia

Visa requirements for international tourists visiting Armenia vary depending on their nationality and purpose of their visit. Citizens of several countries enjoy visa-free entry to Armenia, including those from the United States, Canada, the European Union, Australia, and New Zealand.

However, some travelers must apply for an e-visa or obtain a visa from an Armenian embassy or consulate before their visit. It is essential to check the visa requirements for your specific nationality before planning your trip to Armenia. The duration of your stay, along with any additional entry requirements, can also vary based on your country of origin. We recommend visiting the official Armenian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or contacting your local Armenian embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date and accurate information on visa requirements for your visit to Armenia.

Dress Code

When visiting Georgia, it is important to be mindful of the local customs and dress codes, especially when entering religious buildings. In such places, it is expected that visitors dress modestly with women covering their heads and legs. Shorts and skirts above the knee are usually not allowed. Outside of religious buildings, there is a more casual and relaxed dress code with no specific restrictions, and visitors are free to wear what they prefer. It is worth noting that Georgia is a modern and European-influenced country, so visitors may encounter a mix of styles from traditional and contemporary.

Laundry

Laundry service is available at the majority of our hotels for a reasonable fee, usually around 10 euros or less per load. If you need this service, please speak to your guide in advance to arrange it.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is not a requirement to enter Georgia, but it is highly recommended. A comprehensive travel insurance policy can provide coverage for trip cancellations, medical expenses, lost or stolen belongings, and emergency evacuation. In case of unexpected events, having travel insurance can provide peace of mind and financial protection. It is important to review the coverage and terms of your travel insurance policy before departing to ensure it meets your specific needs and provides adequate protection while traveling in Georgia.

Safety and Security

Georgia is considered one of the safest countries in the world and visitors can generally feel safe while exploring the country. Crime rates, including pickpocketing, are low and tourists can move around freely without major concerns for their safety. However, as with any destination, it is always advisable to take basic safety precautions, such as keeping valuables out of sight, not carrying large amounts of cash, and being aware of one's surroundings in busy areas.

Emergency Contact

In case of any emergencies, we are available for support. During office hours (Tbilisi time), you can reach us at +995 591 257 715 for any urgent questions. Additionally, upon booking, you will be provided with a 24/7 personnel travel assistant for the duration of your trip. They will be available to assist you with any needs or concerns.

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Last update: April 12, 2024, 6:02 a.m.