Border crossing into Abkhazia, November 16

I came across the border late in the afternoon after arriving by flight from Krasnodar. Usually, I take the train to Sochi and then spend some time there before traveling south to the border at Adler. However, I flew and since the airport is actually in Adler, it is a short trip from there to the border.

I had an interesting experience crossing the border. The Russian border agents pulled me aside and very cordially asked me my business. They wanted to know if I was CIA. It seems funny until you consider their position. Very few Westerners cross into Abkhazia and almost no Americans. Since the U.S. has been a strong supporter of Georgia's position, it is natural to question an American entering a place that his country does not officially recognize. I carefully explained to them my business and property ownership in the Krasnodar Region of Russia and of my interest in Abkhazia and its future. They were satisfied and I went on my way.