Situated in the Southeastern corner of Europe, Bulgaria is now focused on the future striving for a better image as an amazing new destination for active and cultural tourism.
1. Location
You probably are still not sure where exactly this interesting country lies - small in scale but yet very dynamic. Why not - the best kept secret of Europe? Situated on the border between Europe and Asia, Bulgaria has a unique geographical location.
2. Unspoilt and diverse nature
You will be surprised to find out that in Bulgaria nest almost 70% of all bird species in Europe. The two great European bird migrations are seen here - Via Pontica and Via Aristotelis. The country is also a paradise for botany lovers. The nature is unspoilt and very diverse. You will experience some of the most spectacular mountain scenery with 7 mountain ranges above 2000m. There are numerous mineral springs and the fine sandy beaches of Black Sea. Enjoy a warm season from May to October. Nowadays 2 natural sites are listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
3. Great historical heritage
Why does Bulgaria have such a great historical heritage? Over the centuries, many people have traversed this land on the Balkan Peninsula. Thracians, Celts, Greeks, Romans, Slavs and Turks have all left their mark, their culture, knowledge and wisdom. Recently in Bulgaria were found early Paleolithic discoveries dating about 1,1 million years back in time! The oldest gold in the world has been found in Bulgaria - it dates from the late 4th millennium B.C. The summer of 2004 turned out to be really "hot" for archaeologists who found several Thracian Tombs. The sensation was a fabulous mask of pure gold with a weight of 682,5 gr. It is dated from 5th century B.C. Remains from the 1st (7-11th century) and 2nd (12-14th century) Bulgarian Kingdoms are to be seen all over the country. Nowadays 7 historical sites are listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
4. Vibrant culture
The vibrant culture has been created for thousands of years from people that have traveled in our lands. A unique mixture is what we experience today. There are many towns and villages that are declared as architectural reserves. You will see timber-built houses and stone homes with slate roofs. Bulgarian is a Southern Slavonic language and it is the root for other Slavonic languages spoken in the region. Bulgaria was the home of the legendary Orpheus. Traditional female vocal music features a beautiful vocal timbre that is rich and stirring in sound. World famous is the choir "Mystery of the Bulgarian Voices". Our culture contains elements of Bulgaria's pre-Christian roots. Some customs are really unique - like "nestinari" fire dance. Bulgarian crafts include woven rugs and cloth, handmade lace, woodcarvings, pottery and ceramics.
5. Religion
Bulgaria is an Orthodox country. There are more than 120 monasteries and many more churches. The walls and ceiling of many of them are covered with numerous frescos. They represent different bible scenes, which have the purpose to explain the philosophy of Orthodox Christianity. One can also see temples of other religions like mosques and synagogues, which all coexists peacefully.
6. Hospitable people
Bulgarians are very hospitable and warm people. In most places you will be welcomed in the traditional way with delicious local meals and wine. The people like to celebrate and you can observe local festivals. Young Bulgarians speak English and other foreign languages.
7. Unique flavors
Bulgaria is the land of the roses. We produce the finest rose oil in the world and it is from our main export goods. In roses blossom in May and the unique Rose Festival is held in the beginning of June in the so-called Rose Valley. Bulgaria is also well known for its fine wines. The tradition in wine production date back from the Thracian times - more than 5000 years ago. The Thracians worshiped Dionysus - the god of wine. Bulgaria is dived into several wine regions where certain wine sorts are grown. There are some unique sorts, which grow only in our country, like Mavrud and Gamza. The national cuisine is a mixture from European, Oriental and traditional flavors. In the villages you will be offered home made food and drinks. When you hear the word yogurt you should know that it has a Bulgarian origin. In 1905 the secret of Bulgarian yogurt was revealed, namely a special bacteria Lactobacillus Bulgaricus, which became one of the symbols of the country. There are different types of yogurt: cow's, sheep's, goat's, and ox's and mixed.
8. Safe country
Bulgaria is a safe country, a member of NATO and on the road to join EU in 2007. There are no wars or ethnical conflicts, no terrorist attacks and economical problems. The people are helpful and open.
9. Contrast allover
Although communism collapsed in 1989-1990 not all regions in the country have felt those changes. This is the reason for the big contrast, which can be seen everywhere. For example, you can see the last BMW edition and next to it a horse-drawn cart, or a new building and an old falling down. The big cities are modern but the countryside is well preserved. In the villages you can expect romantic old lifestyle.
10. Good value for money
Last but not least, the prices in the country are very reasonable - good value for money.
