About the Country
Formally called the Republic of Bulgaria or the Bulgarian Republic, Bulgaria is a beautiful mountainous country depending on Balkan Peninsula in Southern Europe surrounding the Black Sea to the east, Serbia and the Republic of Macedonia to the west, Romania to the north, Greece and Turkey to the south. Bulgaria also surrounds Turkey, Romania, Ukraine, Russia, and Georgia along the sea. The biggest and the capital city is Sofia. The country might be very small in area, but it is abundant in ancient culture, picturesque places, down to earth and friendly individuals who provide the heat and hospitality of old days. Bulgaria is referred to as the “Land of Roses” due to the largest production of roses here. Bulgaria is known mainly for its sea resorts much of the actual nation can be explored in terrific mountain areas, with many ski resorts the best destination for skiers. With special customized, magnificent crafts, colourful festivals, folklore and so on Bulgaria has everything to take the creativity of visitors by surprise and excitement.
Population & Languages
The population of Bulgaria is roughly 7 million and the official language being spoken is Bulgarian. Turkish and Roma are also spoken by a significant percentage of the population. In the Big Tourist areas, English is also spoken, especially by the younger generation.
Electricity
The voltage is 230 V, and the frequency is 50 Hz. The types of plugs used are the Round pin attachment plug and the “Schuko” plug and receptacle with side grounding contacts.
Geographic Location
It depends on Balkan Peninsula in Southern Europe surrounding the Black Sea to the east, Serbia and the Republic of Macedonia (North Macedonia) to the west, Romania to the north, Greece and Turkey to the south. Bulgaria also surrounds Turkey, Romania, Ukraine, Russia, and Georgia along the sea. Bulgaria is strategically located near the Turkish Straits making it the control point of essential land paths linking Europe to the Middle East and Asia.
Climate
The environment of Bulgaria can be called temperate with dry and hot summers and cold and moist winters. Summertime temperatures balance around 75 ° F (24 ° C) and winter temperatures average about 32 ° F (0 ° C). The ideal time to go to Bulgaria is the summer season.
Local Customs
Like any other nation, Bulgaria has its own customs too and regular courtesies ought to be followed. Handshaking is customary. Clothing needs to be conservative however can be casual. Here in Bulgaria, a nod of the head means ‘no’ and a shake of the head implies ‘yes’ although this isn’t always the case so can be confusing. Tipping as much as 10 to 12 per cent is customary for all services including restaurants, bars, clubs, cabs etc.
Attractions in Sofia
St. Sofia Church
St. George Rotunda
Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
National Ethnographic Museum
Pirin National Park
Rila Monastery
Travel by Air
The national airline of Bulgaria is Bulgaria Air. Other worldwide airline companies running from Bulgaria include Aeroflot, Air France, Alitalia, Austrian Airlines, British Airways, El Al (Israel Airlines), KLM, LOT (Polish Airlines), Lufthansa, Malev (Hungarian Airlines), Olympic Airlines and Swiss Air. Sofia International Airport (SOF) is the largest airport which is located six miles east of Sofia. Another international airport is Varna International Airport (VAR) located in the western outskirts of the city about 5 miles from Varna.
Travel by Sea
The International ports are Burgas and Varna along the Black Sea.
Travel by River
Ferries can cross into Romania from Vidin to Calafat.
Travel by Rail
Sofia is linked to Budapest, Belgrade, Bucharest, Thessaloniki, Paris, Vienna, Munich and Berlin through regular services of trains.
Conclusion
Bulgaria probably hasn’t been on your travel list, but it should be. The people are friendly, the scenery outstanding, all-year-round activities so something for everyone. The cost of staying and eating and drinking is cheap, or you could go extravagant if you want. Don’t write this country off your list give it a go and you won’t be disappointed.