For 500 years, until
the 1870s, Bulgaria was ruled by the Ottoman
Empire. The country has altered since the
end of communist rule and although these
changes have been difficult for many, locals
are usually hospitable and high inflation
has made tourists money go a long way. Attractions
include historic churches, mountain scenery,
Roman ruins and the countries Black Sea
coast resorts, which can be busy during
the hot Summer months. The ski season runs
from December through to April. Spring festivals
include The Festival of Roses, celebrated
on the first Sunday of June with folk songs
and dancing and Kukeri held in the Rodopi
Mountains.
Capital City: Sofia
Population: 7.5 million
Area: 111,000 sq km
Geography: Bulgaria is located between
Romania and Turkey. A mountainous country,
it borders the Black Sea, with lowlands
in the north and southeast.
Getting There: Foreign tourists are required to register with
authorities within 72 hours of entering Bulgaria
and not doing so can result in a fine. There are
flights to airports in Sofia, Bourgas and Varna.
A train service runs between Bucharest and Sofia
and ferries sail from Greece.
