Bulgarian Sightseeing
Bulgaria is a land of diverse sightseeing opportunities. The country has something for everyone. From skiing down the mountain slopes to other water sports activities, the country offers young travelers a thrilling experience. Mountain biking in summer months, the mountains of Rhodopi offer excellent mountain trails. Cycling along the Black Sea Coast too is a popular pastime. Mountain climbing trips are arranged in areas of Vratsa, Maliovitza and Roussenski Lom. Guides can be employed to take you hiking up the mountain paths with accommodation in mountain chalets or guest houses along the route.
If you are in for a relaxing holiday you can experience the curative properties and fresh mineral spring waters are Bulgaria's many spas and resorts. There are number of hotels and spas which have opened up around Black Sea Coast which offers tourists facilities for relaxation and rejuvenation. Bulgarian mineral waters are known for their curative properties. One can visit monasteries such as the Batchkovo Monastery which was founded in the 11th century and puts on display many items of archaeological interest which would also include some Thracian objects.
National parks such as Bailusheva pine forests and limestone rocks in Pirin National Park will make you one with nature. The Bulgarian Rose Valley is in full bloom during the months of May and June when the Festival of Roses is celebrated. Bulgarians love music and it is apparent in their dance and elaborate costumes specially designed for taking part in local and folk dances. They play a number of musical instruments such as gaida, kaval and gadulka which are sometimes accompanied by modern musical instruments such as drums, guitars and saxophones. Due to its diverse culture, one would see a variety of places of worship in and around Bulgaria. Communist monuments, Mosques, the Russian Church of St. Nicholas, Synagogues as well as universities, libraries and the Tsar's Palace are some of the interesting places of interest.
Sightseeing excursions and day trips are conducted and can be arranged through hotels and lodges. Guided tours that take you to all the hot spots of Bulgaria offer you all there is to learn about the culture and traditions of the country. At nightfall, the country comes alive with sights and sounds of scintillating nocturnal entertainment. A host of casinos, discos and night clubs offer tourists an opportunity to party under the stars. A tourist with a bit of gambling spirit can enjoy opportunities that casinos offer. Your gaming guts will be revived at roulette tables, poker games, various slot machines, black jack and other games of luck which can be enjoyed after sundown.
On the whole Bulgaria is a fairly safe country and people are friendly. It is better to be cautious and not make any public display of your money and it would be best to travel with as few valuables as possible. Try and attract less attention as a tourist by dressing normally and staying on safe and well lit streets. Crime is a serious issue in Bulgaria, and pick pockets and petty thievery is common. Travelers are also warned to be vigilant where their passports, traveler's checks and credit cards are concerned.