A Week in Bulgaria

What is the first place that comes to mind when you think of an international vacation? France? England? Maybe Mexico or the Caribbean? Well in 2011 I decided to get off the beaten track and head for Eastern Europe; Bulgaria to be specific.

Now obviously Bulgaria isn’t the first place one thinks of when it comes time for planning a summer holiday. In fact, most people would struggle to locate the small European nation on a map. But for me, Bulgaria provided two great opportunities. First was the chance to explore a nation, landscapes and culture that few people from around the globe will ever experience. Secondly, I had met a wonderful Bulgarian woman some years earlier, to whom I had become great friends with. As our friendship blossomed, her stories of the small nation on the Black Sea naturally sparked my interest as a world traveler. And with having a close friend that could also serve as a guide and interpreter; there was really no excuse for not visiting the small Southeast European nation.

Varna

My voyage to Bulgaria started in mid September at the coastal city of Varna. Varna is one of Bulgaria’s largest and fastest growing cities, with a population nearing 350,000. The feel of Varna however was quite different than many similar sized cities in Central and Western Europe that I have visited over the years. For starters, traveling by car is the preferred method for getting places in the city; which is in great contrast to cities in a Germany or France which rely heavily on extensive subway, bus and rail systems. Another thing that tourists will immediately recognize is the lack of English spoken; both in Varna and throughout Bulgaria. This can obviously make communication rather difficult for most westerners. Especially when you factor in that the Bulgarian language is highly complex and difficult to interpret as it is based on the Cyrillic alphabet.

While some might consider these differences shortcomings; I consider it part of the adventure. When I vacation I try to follow the mantra that if you want to experience culture and languages that are similar to your own, you might as well stay home! And even if they do cause some difficulties, the city and surrounding areas more than make up for them. Minutes from the city center one will find amazing white sand beaches, ancient Roman ruins, vibrant markets and historic Orthodox temples. Additionally, Varna is always a buzz. Anywhere you travel in the city, you will notice the numerous warm and friendly Bulgarians (many whom are also tourists in the city) on walks through the many parks and walkways or making their way through the many storefronts and markets.

One attraction that really stood out for me was the legendary Kaliakra; a towering narrow cape that rises hundreds of feet above the cracking waves of the Black Sea. Kaliakra is only an hour drive from Varna and provides a perfect day trip for those looking to take a break from the city or lounging at the beach. Ruins of a spectacular medieval fortress provide a perfect backdrop to panoramic views of the Black Sea, as well as an abundance of dolphins and coastal wildlife.

Veliko Turnovo

After my stay in Varna, I headed west to the mountain city of Veliko Turnovo. The drive from Varna to Veliko Turnovo is almost a vacation in itself. In just a short 3 hour drive you will come across dozens of quaint villages that dot an ever changing landscape of rolling plains, lush forests and majestic mountains. Today Veliko Turnovo serves as both a major university city and as a historic getaway; as the city was formally the capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire. The city’s primary tourist attraction is Tsarevets; a 900 year old fortress and primary bulwark of the afore mentioned ancient empire. Views from atop of Tsarevets are stunning; providing beautiful views of the city and surrounding valley that sit at its feet.

Aside from the fortress and picturesque views, Veliko Turnovo has much to provide both domestic and international tourists. The city is filled with winding streets that are bustling with many local shops and restaurants. And for those with a flavor for the nightlife; there are numerous discos and nightclubs that are filled with college students all hours of the night.

After my week in Bulgaria had come to an end, I have to admit that I was a little sad to be leaving. When I first arrived in the country, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. But when I left, I knew I was leaving a nation filled with natural beauty, thousands of years of history and kindness & compassion for those who come within her borders.


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