 With a population of 7.5 million, Bulgaria is one of the smaller EU member-states. Nevertheless, its strategic geographic location, connecting the East and the West via land and water, as well as its ancient history (the state was established in 681, but it still keeps the vestiges of ancient Thracian and Greek settlements) make it both a very interesting tourist site and an important political ally. Although one can drive across Bulgaria in twelve hours, its nature and geography are highly varied. There are high mountains with great winter resorts and hiking trails, low valleys with fertile agricultural land, beautiful lakes and rivers (including the Danube River), and even a seacoast that attracts millions of tourists from all over the world every year.
 In addition to its breathtaking nature and long history, Bulgaria prides itself on its unique folkloric traditions and rich culture. The official language in the country is Bulgarian, written in the Cyrillic alphabet, created in the 9th century by the Byzantine emperor in order to facilitate the conversion of Bulgarians to Christianity and ensure their faithful partnership. However, there are plenty of English-speaking locals, English signs and advertisements, restaurant menus and publications. Like most EU citizens, a large percentage of Bulgarians under age fifty who live in urban areas speak at least one foreign language. These days, this language is usually English, but many members of the older population also speak Russian, French and German. Bulgarians are well known for their hospitality and willingness to offer all guests the best of what they have.
 The richness of Bulgarian culture is to a large extent due to its history of interaction with various cultures throughout the ages. It was also dominated by the Turkish empire for about 500 years until it received its independence at the end of the 19th century. While this period is known by most Bulgarians as one of the most tragic times in Bulgarian history (a sacred book for every Bulgarian is Ivan Vazov's "Under the Yoke", which describes the story of Bulgarian rebels against Turkish authority), it has also left Bulgaria with a touch of Orientalism that is evident in a lot of the dishes, some of the language and even contemporary music. Even today, in some parts of Bulgaria the local population is predominantly Muslim. There is also a Turkish and a gypsy minority. Bulgarian citizens are accustomed to religious and ethnic diversity, so cultural and ethnic tolerance is an important feature of their heritage.
After WWII, Bulgaria fell under the influence of the Soviet Union and remained a satellite state until 1989, when it became a democratic republic. While the first decade after the fall of Communism was difficult politically and economically, the country has picked up in all spheres over the past seven years. One proof of this fact is Bulgaria's recent accession in the European Union, along with sustained economic growth and improved investment ratings. Bulgaria has several world-renowned 'trademarks': Bulgarian yoghurt is produced with a special germ that can grow only in Bulgaria and is exported to countries as far as Japan; Bulgarian rose oil is made from the roses grown in fields in the central part of the country; Bulgarian wine is popular throughout the world; and Bulgarian tourist sites include winter and seaside resorts, rural and ecotourist sites, and cultural and historic sites. In fact nine cultural and natural sites are listed in the UNESCO World Heritage list.
In short, living in Bulgaria gives one a great opportunity to not only learn about the unique local lifestyle and people, but also to expand one's knowledge of world history and culture.
Web Resources for Bulgaria
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