Bulgaria

Rich Balkan culture and history among the mountains and the sea

Occupying the eastern half of the Balkan Peninsula, Bulgaria is a land of great beauty, from its Black Sea coast to its villages still somewhat living in the last century. Trains cut through both its rugged and mountainous interior and its fertile Danube plains, connecting fishing villages to its Roman ruins and lush valleys. At a crossroads of Europe and Asia, it’s naturally had a violent history, and its recent past has been determined by its parasitic relationship with the former Soviet Union. Today it turns toward Western Europe, embracing capitalism and democracy. It’s a safe and relatively hassle-free country in which to travel, unlike many former Eastern Bloc republics.

Not as touristy as its neighbors, Greece and Turkey, Bulgaria today is a bulwark of Balkan culture, rich with impressive mosques, rustic villages, flamboyantly decorated churches, and an enduring folklore. During its long, hot summers many residents relax along the cool Black Sea coast or hike along 22,991 miles (37,000km) of marked trails, many cutting through virgin national parks and pristine nature reserves. The only travelers who brave Bulgaria’s winters are skiers attracted to major ski resorts.

For more information on Bulgaria contact the Bulgaria Tourist Board.

© 2009, Wiley Publishing, Inc.