Tskhinvali

Pretty much the only way to get to Tskhinvali at present is to travel south of Vladikavkaz the main city of North Ossetia in Russia. The cheapest option is to take a marshrutka, which run multiple times per day between the two cities. Taxis also run at reasonable cost.

Tskinvali's city center is compact, and easily covered on foot.

• The main government buildingA large neoclassical Italianate building, home to the separatist government of Eduard Kokoity, which is the main landmark in the city

• Monument to the victims of the Georgian-Ossetian conflict

• Statue of Abaity Vasoiy (Абайты Васойы)

• Statue of Khetagkaty Kostaiy (Хетæгкаты Къостайы)

Tskhinvali has long been the safest destination in South Ossetia to visit. The calm has returned in the region (although that does not mean that it is a tourist paradise).

While the bloody conflicts have ended, the situation in the city is far from ideal. The health system is dilapidated in Tskhinvali: Basic medical supplies, plumbing, to name a few are very short in supply owing to a failing infrastructure that has been damaged during years of warfare. Be sure to bring the necessary medical equipment with you, and only drink bottled water.

• The Russian-Georgian border has been closed to all third-party nationals for more five years, but it should now be considered closed to everyone. The only people crossing the border at present are Russian troops and Ossetian refugees.