The Basics
Country: Bulgaria
Where is it: Bulgaria is located in southeastern Europe, bordering the Black Sea, between Romania and Turkey.
Why do people go here: Bulgaria is a cheap destination for those who wish to hit up the Black Sea coastline for a beach stay, or the slopes for a wintertime adventure.
What are the main entry points: Those with circular routes will come up from Turkey or Greece, or down from Romania, via train or bus. The quality of bus versus train service varies depending on the country; ask around before you pick one.
Currency used: Lev
Country Code for Phones: 359
Area codes for Major Cities: Sofia 2
Religion: Bulgarian Orthodox 83.8%, Muslim 12.1%, Roman Catholic 1.7%, Jewish 0.1%, Protestant, Gregorian-Armenian, and other 2.3%
Population: 7.6 million
Ethnic Breakdown: 83.9% Bulgarians, 9.4% Turkish, 4.7% Roma, 2% other groups
Government: Parliamentary democracy
Languages: Bulgarian, secondary languages closely correspond to ethnic breakdown
Travel Information
Major Cities: Sofia
Attractions: Black Sea, slopes, Sofia
Accommodation: Bulgaria Hostels
Tourism Office locations and links: Bulgaria-Assoc. of Tourism & Recreation 1 Lenin Square Sofia, Bulgaria +359-2-84-131
Off-the-Beaten-Path: Melnik, Sliven, Balchik, Madara
Health Issues: No vaccines are required to enter Bulgaria, however, officials can demand proof of health insurance
Tips for Visiting
When to go: Thinking about a summer at the sideside? You and a few million tourists. Try visiting during the mild spring, instead.
Common Phrases: Good morning=Dobro utro, Good afternoon=Dobãr den, Good evening=Dobãr vecer, Good night=Leka nošt, Goodbye=Doviždane, Welcome= dobre došãl
Specific Events/Holidays: Liberation Day, 3 March (1878)
Getting Around: Private buses and trains compete with government owned enterprises, resulting in cheap, but not always reliable, transportation.
Good to know: Bulgaria is known as a minor oil producer.
Cheapest airport to fly into: The cheapest airport to fly into Bulgaria is the Sofia Airport.
Need more information?: Check out the Bulgaria travel guide for more on what to see, where to stay, and how to get there.
