Where to Go - Europe (exc UK)

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Bulgaria

Population : 7,796,694

Literacy rate : 98%

Life expectancy at birth : male – 67.45 yrs, female – 74.56 yrs

Infant mortality rate : 15.13 deaths/1,000 live births

Population growth rate : -1.16%

GDP growth rate : 2.5%

GDP per capita : £2,900

Unemployment : 15%

Inflation : 6.2%

TI index : 3.5

Climate : temperate; cold, damp winters; hot, dry summers.

Time : GMT +3 except from 27 October to 29 March when GMT +2.

Electricity : 220v AC, 50Hz. Plugs are 2 pin round.

Websites : A good site for info is http://www.bulgaria.com/

The US Library of Congress page for the Republic of Bulgaria is at http://lcweb2.loc.gov/frd/cs/bgtoc.html

Information and details of what activities are on offer in Bulgaria, also featuring a comprehensive list of accommodation in the country, can be found at http://www.discover-bulgaria.com

You will have to battle with various difficulties in everyday life as the country continues to adjust itself to capitalism. Everyone tries hard in this country in spite of the difficulties. One thing to remember (in the category of ‘political incorrectness’) is never to compare Turkey and Bulgaria; they hate each other. There are serious cultural and religious differences. Stay out of it. Organized crime has made its presence felt and the government is working hard to eliminate it. The Kosovo conflict has also had an impact on the economy, but things are expected to improve – after all, the Bulgarians have had IMF loans, have a strong national identity and are motivated to hard work and national improvement.

Apart from all the above, this is a fascinating country. The alphabet is Cyrillic; learn it, it will help enormously (understatement).

The city of Sofia is rich in history, going back to 700 BC. The churches (St Sofia 400 – 600 AD) and the Alexander Nevski Memorial Church (1912) and the Russian Church are all worth a visit, as is the National Art Museum. There are 200 museums in Bulgaria, all are worth visiting. Walks in the mountains are also an option for the tourist. Treat the local home brew - rayki – with respect. At strengths of up to 75%, this is serious alcohol. The Black Sea resorts are beautiful and cheap.

One more thing – Bulgaria’s website was once awarded a prize as the best in Europe. Lots of information there.

Entry requirements

You will need an entry visa from the Bulgarian Consular Service in your country.

Vaccinations

No information on income tax. Get health insurance. If you have a UK passport and an NHS card, you will have access to all medical treatment.

Gap Year Programmes

Click here to find gap year programmes and placements in Bulgaria

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