US, Nov. 15 -- Something unusual is happening on the eastern shore of the Black Sea.

The main city of Adjara-Batumi was declared the best tourist destination by the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences in 2012. In recent Forbes rankings, Batumi was given a place amongst the top five 'velvet season' recreational resorts.

A futuristic skyline rises above palm-lined promenades. Casinos illuminate hotel entrances. Glass towers overlook historic European-style squares, while restaurants serve Georgian wine, khachapuri and seafood at prices that can surprise international visitors.

This is Batumi, capital of Georgia's autonomous Adjara region, near the Turkish border.

The city resembles a miniature Dubai, but with Georgian hospitality,...