overall thoughts

I read everything so far in the discussion and decided to post a comment myself. I have been living in the USA (Miami, FL) for the past 5 years and used to live in Sofia. On the topic about the mafia - nobody should be worried about it visiting Bulgaria. A mafia boss will not bother mugging someone on the street for 20, 50 or 1000 leva. "Street crime" probably should have been the thing discussed. I think that if you don't cause trouble and avoid quarrels, no one will do you harm. I would say be careful riding public transportation - gypsies in Bulgaria deserve a medal for pick-pocketing - that's how good they are. A person would not notice belongings missing from a purse. Someone said above "use common sense". Well, it is common sense for us Bulgarians, but not for our dear tourists from abroad. In regards to Taxis - before you even get in the car, ask the driver through the window how much will it cost you to your destination. If you think the price is right - hop in. If not - walk away. I would recommend using "OK Supertrans" taxi service. It operates in the capital of Sofia. They are very prompt when you call them by phone (973 21 21 locally is the number if I am not mistaken). Around the towns and resorts at the Black Sea majority of taxis are independently owned and they charge an arm or a leg (or both) - so ask them again before you get in.

I was in Sunny Beach last year (2007) and I didnt see anything wrong. I would say protect your belongings at the beach - do not get in the water without someone guarding your stuff. Keep an eye. There is no violence, but theft can easily occur on the beach. Clubs in Sunny Beach are amazing - go have fun, dring, dance party, release yourself! Covers are expensive (for Bulgarian standards) and they are around 20 leva. If a DJ from abroad is a guest - 20-40 leva. I love it because it excludes people who can not afford it which means more people with money and less likely for problems to occur.

Mountains in Bulgaria are amazing! People are even friendlier there. Smaller villages will truly show you what Bulgarian Hospitality really is! Generally is true everywhere that the smaller the city - the more hospitable are they. Same in Bulgaria.

My best advice - have a Bulgarian friend with you if possible. He will show you around, tell you of that "Bulgarian common sense", show you where to eat and shop at reasonable prices at the Black sea and give you tips on your vacation in general. If someone has any questions that think I am able to answer, please let me know. I would love to help. I study Hospitality Administration 3rd year anyways and hopefully I would accommodate you guys in my hotel in Sunny Beach one day Email is [email removed]

tonakis 24 Sep 2008, 08:47 - Report