Bulgaria has developed rapidly over the last decade, although in the villages you can still find those who ride their donkey to work, eat homegrown potatoes and make their own cheese. The main variation now is that they wash it all down in front of a satellite TV. When Bulgaria rushed away with the unstable capitalist circus, no-one told its inhabitants that they were swinging without a safety net. But what travellers encounter now is a country that is struggling bravely to adapt and people who stay remarkably hospitable in the face of social and economic chaos. Urban Bulgaria, especially Sofia, is much changed.

Despite all of its turbulent history, Bulgaria is the oldest surviving state within Europe that has kept its original name (since AD681) and the majority of the population are descendants of the Bulgar invasion of the south Danube around that time.

A branch of the Ottoman empire for around 500 years and a previous satellite of the Soviet Union for nearly half a century, Bulgaria succeeded in integrating into western alliances when it became a NATO member in March 2004. The 10 November 1989 marked the beginning of the democratic changes in Bulgaria. In 1990 Zhelyu Zhelev became the initial democratically elected President of Bulgaria. A new constitution was adopted (1991), the political parties were re-established, and privatization and restitution of the land started. Bulgaria joined the European Union in January 2007.

A Balkan country with stunning mountains and a coastline on the Black Sea, Bulgaria has much to offer to travellers. With mountains dwelling in half the country’s territory, Bulgaria is rising as a new bargain ski destination. Visitors can stay in towns and villages that have aimed to conserve the authentic Bulgarian spirit and hospitality. Bulgaria is especially proud of its rich folklore traditions. Folk dances, music, national costumes and traditional rituals are an important part of the life of the Bulgarians. Additionally, the Black Sea Coast has over 370km (232 miles) of coastlines with sandy beaches and several attractive resorts which are ideal for both traditional seaside family holidays or for more active stays.