ISSN 1311-9753 I FREE MONTHLY GUIDE + MAP I JULY 2014 I ISSUE 253

Bulgaria in Brief 1 2 in Brief

4 Bulgaria in Brief 5 km RUN 18 Overview 26 Accommodation

36 Bars AND p. 35 restaurants

44 entertainment YANNI 52 culture 58 uSeful Numbers TORI AMOS 60 indeX

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Manager: Lyudmila Mladenova Translations: Pro Trans Expert Ltd. Sofia City Info Guide Design: Nova Advertising Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means without prior On the Cover: Photo by Mihail Spirov permission. Monthly circulation: 20 000 Print: Janet 45 Ltd. www.cityinfoguide.net www.cityinfoguides.com Bulgaria in Brief 3 44 BulgariaBulgaria inin BriefBrief

Welcome to bulgaria Welcome to one of the oldest European states with 6000-year old gold treasures, a centre of ancient civilizations, a country that hosts the sanctuary of the mystical singer Orpheus and gave to the Slavonic world the first letters. Bulgaria is a small country by area and population, but it was this spectacular piece of land that God Almighty blessed with unearthly beautiful nature, proud people and rich cultural heritage Bulgarians are also quite hospitable nation – they will greet you like dear guests, will open their hearts filigree gold and silver jewelry. The great Homer and homes to you and will see you off with sincere described in his masterpiece Iliad a Thracian king, wishes for you to come back soon again... having “the biggest and the most handsome horses I have ever seen,/whiter than snow and swifter than FACTS & FIGURES the winds/and a chariot finely wrought with silver Population: 7 364 570 and gold.” Area: 110 993 sq. km The newly established state acquired political Language: Bulgarian recognition from the Byzantine Empire in 681 A.D. Religion: Orthodox The state was ruled by its founder Khan Asparuh, Average summer temperatures: 26° to 30°C the leader of the proto-Bulgarians, and its capital Average winter temperatures: -5° to 5°C was Pliska. Time zone: GMT +2 (Apr-Sept GMT +3) The First Bulgarian State stretched gradually from Country dialing code: 00 359 Transylvania in the north to the Aegean Sea in the Internet country code: .bg south and from the Black Sea in the east to the President: Rosen Plevneliev Adriatic Sea in the west. It fell to the Byzantines in Administrative division: 28 regions 263municipalities 1018 after it had been conquered by the Emperor Capital: Sofia (population 1 291 591) Vassileios II. Major Cities: (671 918), Varna (468 220), During that period the Slavic alphabet was created Bourgas (409 018), Rousse (230 847), Stara in 855. It was called Cyrillic alphabet, named Zagora (327 576), Pleven (266 144), Sliven (193 after St. Cyril, and corresponded perfectly to the 609), Dobrich (186 016), Shumen (180 452), phonetic riches and needs of the Slavonic-Bulgarian Pernik (133 750), Yambol (129 156), Haskovo language. As of today more than 250 million people (242 030). in Europe and Asia use the Cyrillic alphabet for their Location and Territory national languages and half of them are in Russia. Bulgaria is located in South-Eastern Europe and With the accession of Bulgaria to the EU, the Cyrillic occupies the Eastern part of the Balkan Peninsula. alphabet became the third official one of the union. To the North, the country borders with Romania via Another major historical landmark took place in this the Danube River, to the East it touches the Black period when Knyaz Boris I converted the state to Sea, its southern neighbors are Turkey and Greece, Orthodox Christianity in 864. and to the West it borders with the Republics of The Second Bulgarian State, established in 1185 at Macedonia and Serbia. The total territory of the , reinstated the borders of the First country is 110 993 sq. km and Bulgaria ranks 15th Bulgarian Kingdom and a second Golden Age began in size among the other European countries. during which Bulgaria expanded its borders to the shores of Black, Aegean and Adriatic seas History From 1396 to 1878 the country was under the rule The Bulgarian state was founded circa 681 as (the so called ‘yoke’) of the Ottoman Empire. a union of the new-settled Proto-Bulgarians, of Sofia became the capital of Bulgaria after the Veliko seven Slavonic tribes who have already settled this Tarnovo Constitution was accepted in 1879. From territory and with the inclusion of some smaller 1878 (liberation from the rule of the Ottoman Empire) ethnical groups (Thracians and others) to 1944, Bulgaria enjoyed a brief but unstable period The Thracians were a tribal society who inhabited a of relative freedom. After 1944 the Communist vast area in Central and Southeastern Europe. They Party, led by its leader ,took the were well known in the Ancient world for making power as a result of almost bloodless coup d’état 5 66 BulgariaBulgaria inin BriefBrief

and proclaimed Bulgaria a People’s Republic in 1946 considerable exports. after a controversial referendum. The Communist In 2009, Bulgaria’s GDP fell by 5.1 %, ending regime lasted until November 10th, 1989 when a three-year growth pattern. However after the Bulgaria peacefully ousted the Communist Party economy’s stagnation in 2010, in 2011 and 2012, leader . the real GDP growth reached 0.2% and 1.7%. One of the first signs of Bulgaria’s democratization Currently Bulgaria ranks 59th (out of 183 world after 1989 was the establishment of a multi-party economies) in the Doing Business 2012 report of system. The new Constitution of the Republic of the IFC and the World Bank, measuring business Bulgaria, adopted on July 12, 1991, proclaimed regulations and their enforcement. the country as a parliamentary republic. On March 29, 2004 Bulgaria joined NATO, and on January Currency Bulgarian Lev is pegged to the EURO (EURO 1 = 1st, 2007 the country became a member of the BGN 1, 95583). Nowadays coins in circulation European Union. are issued in 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 stotinki and 1 lev. State System Banknotes circulate in the form of 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 State power in Bulgaria is divided into three branches: and 100 leva. legislative (represented by the National Assembly), Banking System executive (represented by the Bulgarian Government At this point 30 banks are functioning in the country, and the Presidency) and judiciary legislative serving their consumers through well distributed (represented by the Supreme Judiciary Council and and balanced network of 2929 branches. The the Supreme Court of Cassation). banks in Bulgaria are stable, have excellent capital The National Assembly of Bulgaria (Narodno adequacy and liquidity indicators and the banking Subranie) consists of 240 deputies, elected for supervision operates properly. The banking system 4-year terms. The parliament enacts laws, approves works according to the European legislation and the budget of the country and ratifies the international world standards, and 80% of it is formed of top- treaties and agreements. rated banks of the Euro-zone. The three biggest Currently there are four parties in the 42nd National banks – Unicredit Bulbank, DSK Bank and the Assembly. The largest one is the rightwing party United Bulgarian Bank, possess over 40% of all Citizens for European Development of Bulgaria, bank assets and generate over a half of the profit having 93 seats, followed by the leftwing Coalition in the sector. The Bulgarian consumer is still for Bulgaria, with 83 seats, the Movement for Rights conservative and prefers to pay in cash. However, and Freedoms, with 36 seats and the far right different modern ways of bank payments have been nationalist party “Ataka” with 23 seats. There are also developing fast in the recent years. 4 independent deputies. The President of Bulgaria is elected for a 5-year term Religion and is the head of state and the commander in chief A full freedom of the religious denominations is of the armed forces. proclaimed in the Constitution of the Republic of Bulgaria. Economy According to the census from 2011, 76% of Before the changes in Eastern Europe, the country the population are Eastern Orthodox Christians, was entirely dependent on the Soviet Union and the 10 % are Muslims, 0.8% - Catholics, 1.1% are socialist block. A positive change began in 1997, Protestants and 0,2 % belong to other religions. when the currency board system was introduced in Bulgaria, i.e. the national currency (BGN) was fixed Population and Ethnic Groups to the German Mark, and later to the Euro. Thanks to Bulgaria is a country with a population of almost the strict monetary discipline of the currency board 8 million people. Until the middle of the last in combination with a series of radical reforms, the century three quarters of the population lived in economic system was stabilized and the restoration the villages. At the end of the century, as a result process was initiated. of the process of rapid industrialization and the The years of development of the national economy consequent migration to the cities, the ratio has between 1998 and 2005, seeing an average GDP been reversed and today 70% of the total population growth of 4.5%, were followed by more rapid growth is an urban one. of GDP. In 2005, GDP growth reached 5.5%, in With its 1, 5 million residents the capital Sofia is 2006 – 6, 1 %, 2007 – 6, 2 %, 2008 – 6,6% . This the biggest city in Bulgaria. There are seven cities growth has been driven mostly by increased foreign with population of more than 100 thousand where investments, boosting domestic consumption and nearly a third of the entire population of the country Bulgaria in Brief 7 88 BulgariaBulgaria inin BriefBrief

lives. Another 14 towns have between 50 and 100 Climate thousand residents. The proportion between women The climate is moderate continental with and men in Bulgaria is 51, 4 % to 48,6 %. The smaller Mediterranean influence to the South. The average share of men is due to their shorter life expectancy, annual temperature is 10, 5 degrees Celsius. and therefore is sharper in the age groups of over Four seasons could be clearly distinguished in Bulgaria 50 years. – winter, spring, summer and autumn. January is the According to the 2001 census, 83, 9 % of the people coldest month of the year. July and August are the in Bulgaria are ethnic Bulgarians, and the biggest hottest summer months and sometimes temperatures minorities are the ethnic Turks (9, 4%) and the Roma go above 30 degrees Celsius. Bulgarians enjoy 2000 (4, 7%). The remaining 2% include smaller minorities to 24000 hours of sunlight per year. like Armenians, Russians, Romanians, Ukrainians, Greeks and Jews. Waters Bulgaria boasts a huge variety and number of mineral The majority of the adult Bulgarians have secondary springs of various chemical compositions, suitable or higher education and among the people between for prophylaxis and treatments of many diseases. 25 and 64 years of age this share is over two-third. There are about 600 mineral water deposits in Official Language and Alphabet Bulgaria with more than 1,600 springs, located The official language is Bulgarian and the official mainly at the mountain foothills. There are many spa alphabet is Cyrillic. The belongs to resorts situated in Bankya, Velingrad and Sandanski. the group of the Slavonic languages. Serbo-Croatian Worth mentioning are also the the mineral baths of and Russian are the most similar languages to it. Stara Zagora, Narechen, Sliven and Haskovo, as Other languages as English, German, French, Russian well as of Kyustendil, Varshets, Hissarya, Merichleri, and Spanish are spoken and used frequently by 40 % Momin Prohod and Kostenets. of the population. Beautiful lakes lie hidden in the cirques of Rila and Pirin Mountains. There are also dams, surrounded by Topography impressive nature, such as Iskar Dam, Batak Dam, The country’s relief is varied (from 0 to 2,925 m Dospat Dam and many others. above the sea level) and about 60 percent of the territory is hilly and mountainous. The most famous Flora and Fauna mountains are: Rila (with the highest mountain peak Bulgaria is still rich in locations where the natural on the Balkan Peninsula Mussala – 2 925 m), Pirin beauty has been preserved almost unspoiled and (Vihren Peak – 2 914 m), the Central Balkan (Botev the flora demonstrates remarkable diversity. A total Peak – 2 376 m), the Rhodope Mountains (Golyam of 12 360 species have been found in our country. Perelik Peak – 2 191 m) and Vitosha Mountain near There are more than 12 National parks across the Sofia (Cherni Vrah Peak – 2 290 m). country with various natural reserves on their territory. Numerous natural phenomena are scattered across The Bulgarian endemic plants, which are to be the country: mountain passes and gorges, rock- found nowhere else in the world, include more than pyramids and bizarre rock formations, numerous 250 species: Rila Primrose, Balkan Violet, Bulgarian caves and waterfalls, beautiful lakes. Some of the Blackberry, Rhodope Tulip, etc. Forests abound most famous natural sights are: the Melnik Pyramids, with various wild fruits – all of them of proven and the Fossil Forest, the Belogradchik Rocks; the gorges distinctive flavor. There is also a great diversity of of the rivers Trigradska in the Rhodopes and Erma animal species. Bulgaria’s fauna numbers more than near the town of Tran, Vratsata; the valleys of the 13,000 representatives. Rare mammal species are rivers Iskar, Struma and Mesta, the canyon of the also to be found in the country. Roussenski Lom River; the Srebarna Lake; the rock Communication monastery Aladja off the city of Varna, etc. The country offers a relatively good highway network, There is a great diversity of karsts forms, among including six international highways, which meet the them there are some 4,600 caves. The deepest cave international standards and connect Europe with the in Bulgaria is Raichova Dupka (387 m deep), and the Orient, and the North with the South. Four out of the longest is Duhlata (17,600 m long). The best known ten Trans-European corridors cross the territory of caves are the Ledenika, the Magurata and the Saeva Bulgaria – IV, VIII, IX and X. Dupka, the caves in the Balkan range and also the The first airline in the country, Sofia-Burgas, was caves in the Rhodope Mountains- the Snezhanka, opened in 1947. Today there are four Bulgarian the Yagodinskata, the Dyavolsko Garlo, and the airports, servicing commercial airlines: Burgas Airport Uhlovitsa Caves. (BOJ), Plovdiv Airport (PDV), Sofia Airport (SOF) and Bulgaria in Brief 9 10 Bulgaria in Brief

Varna Airport (VAR). document, which should state that the vehicle can be Inter-city and long distance bus transport are also brought into Bulgaria. Participants in a road accident well developed. Urban transport services are driving a car with foreign registration are obliged to provided mainly by bus lines, trolley buses, subway remain on the site and wait for the traffic police until and tramways. its arrival. Driving after consumption of alcoholic drinks Petrol stations on the territory of the Republic of (over 0.5 percent per 1000 in the blood) or of other Bulgaria offer petrol with octane numbers 92, 98 intoxicating substances is strictly prohibited. The use of and 95 H-unleaded, as well as diesel fuel. There are a mobile phone while driving is permitted but only with petrol stations at each FCPP, along international and the help of a hands-free device. Travelling around the secondary roads, and in towns and villages. country, drivers should not exceed the following speed Railway roads have total length of 6 500 km and the limits (km per hour): better part of them is operated by electric powered engines. Border and Customs Regulations On the 1st of January 2007 Bulgaria joined the European Union. Visitors arriving from the EU don’t need a visa, 4 but should carry a passport or other valid identity document confirming the nationality of the bearer. Citizens of some non-EU countries may travel to Bulgaria for tourism and business purposes without a Vignette System visa if the planned stay in Bulgaria does not exceed The Vignette system is valid for the National Road 90 days. For further information visit the website of the Network, except for the ring roads and by-pass roads Bulgarian Embassy or Consulate in your country. of populated areas as well as the roads within populated All other foreigners may cross the border of the areas. Buying a vignette, you have the right to use over Republic of Bulgaria if they hold a valid passport and 300 km of motor ways and over 18 000 km of roads for an appropriate visa (Airport Transit Visa, Transit Visa, the period specified on the vignette sticker Regular Visa or Work Visa). As of 2012, Schengen visa Where to buy a vignette from? holders have the right for a stay of up to 30 days within There are more than 3000 points of sale, incl. gas- 6 months period, without a short-stay Bulgarian visa. stations, post offices, banks etc..You can also buy Visitors must have proof of sufficient funds (according a vignette from all border-crossing points (BPCs) of to the duration and the conditions of their stay) and the Republic of Bulgaria. There you will find the units onward or return tickets in addition to other documents of REA (designated with the relevant mark). These needed for the next destination. Valid health insurance units are open 24 hours. The prices of vignettes are is required. in Euro (EUR). All visitors of Bulgaria, other than EU nationals, must ATTENTION: Driving road vehicles on the Vignette register as foreigners at the passport directorate on Network without a valid vignette is a violation and 48, Maria Luisa Blvd. (9th–12th Counter) within five subject to sanctions in accordance to the Road Traffic days of arrival. This registration is usually done as a Law. Assess carefully the duration of your stay and buy matter of course through the hotel or accommodation appropriate vignette. establishment. Immigration and entry regulations are Prices in EURO of vignette types by categories: very strictly enforced. Category C1 EC0 Category “Euro 0, I, II” Passports of all visitors should be valid for at least six Annual – 665; monthly – 110; weekly – 38; daily – 7 months on entry for those requiring a visa, and three Category C1 EC0 Category “Euro III, IV, V, EEV” months on entry for visa exempt nationals other than Annual – 511; monthly – 85; weekly – 30; daily – 7 those from EU countries, whose passports must be Category C2 EC0 Category “Euro 0, I, II” valid for the period of stay. Annual – 348; monthly – 60; weekly – 22; daily – 7 Traffic Regulations Category C2 EC0 Category “Euro III, IV, V, EEV” Traffic rules on the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria, Annual – 268; monthly – 46; weekly – 17; daily – 7 as well as road signals, are in compliance with Category C3 annual – 34; monthly – 13; European Standards. If you enter Bulgaria in a private weekly – 5 vehicle, you must have your driving license, all original Telephone Services registration and ownership documents (including M-tel, Vivatel and Globul are the national GSM logbook) as well as insurance valid in Bulgaria. If you operators providing digital cellular telecommunication use rent- a-car you must have the original contract Bulgaria in Brief 1311 12 Bulgaria in Brief

services in Bulgaria. Europe, America, Near East, Japan, Africa and Australia can be dialed directly. All the operators offer prepaid vouchers. For those countries that cannot be dialed directly you must order the call by dialing & 0123. For any other kind of “Bulgaria in miniatures”- a mobile guide international operator assistance dial & 0123. A unique information system was launched on the For some useful telephone numbers please turn to the Bulgarian National Holiday (3 March) 2006, which back pages of this guide. cannot be found anywhere else in Europe. Bulgarian and non-Bulgarian visitors alike can now Tourism receive information about some of the most popular Bulgaria is a small country (2% of the territory of historical monuments and natural phenomena in Europe), but it is blessed with magnificent nature Bulgaria. “Bulgaria in miniatures” is a mobile guide and offers unique opportunities for various types of created with the support of the three national mobile tourism. The temperate climate makes Bulgaria a phone providers. The most significant historical perfect destination during all the seasons of the year. monuments and natural sites in the capital and other Virgin natural beauty, ancient cultures, picturesque towns have now been sign-posted with specially villages frozen in time, where life moves in the rhythm assigned number which visitors could dial in order to of previous centuries– these are only some of the find information about them in Bulgarian and English visions and emotions you will be able to store forever languages. The sites in Sofia include: Alexander Nevski in your memories if you visit Bulgaria. Cathedral, Saint Sophia Basilica, Bulgarian Academy 37 mountains can be found on a territory of only 110 of Sciences, the Monument of Tsar Osvoboditel, the 879 sq.km, each different from the other, and with its National Arts Gallery, the National Foreign Art Gallery, own charm and beauty. Thousands of opportunities Sofia City Hall, ’s House-Museum, the to study the wild flora and fauna and tempting hiking National Theatre of Ivan Vazov, the Parliament Building, trips await all those wishing to enjoy the beauty of the the Unknown Soldier Monument, Saint George Rotund, Bulgarian nature. Sofia University of Kliment Ohridski, Bulgarian National In Bulgaria you may witness many colorful traditions, Bank, Boyana Church, the National Library of Cyril preserved in many parts of the country, taste local and Mehtodius, Monument, Vasil Levski Stadium, and The Russian church of Saint Nicolas. culinary specialties and wines or even master some The price for the service is 1.20 leva per minute incl. traditional craft. VAT with the call duration varying between 3 and 5 With that many opportunities for an exciting tour minutes depending on the site. around this small country with rich history and culture, the village, spa, ecological, mountain, Ski Resorts adventure, religious, and cultural tourism are the The winter tourism has seen swift development in the fastest growing branches of this economical sphere recent years. More than EUR 500 million investments over the past few years. were allocated to the Bansko resort, and even more are planned for other traditional winter resort like Borovets Black Sea Coast and Pamporovo in the years to come. Bulgarian sea resorts offer excellent accommodation The sustained growth stimulates investments in the at five, four, three, and two-star hotels, both seasonal branch. The facilities are being constantly renovated and working all year round. They also provide a rich while the prices in Bulgaria remain considerably lower variety of sports and fun activities. than in other competitive countries. The capacity of the The following Bulgarian sea resorts were distinguished winter resorts increases gradually. During the summer with the prestigious Blue Flag Award: Roussalka, Alps-like mountains offer opportunities for rock climbing Albena, Golden Sands, Riviera, Sunny Day, Elenite, and caving in the 4300 caves (12 are supplied with Nessebar Beach, Sunny Beach, Pomorie Beach, electricity). Higher mountain areas provide excellent Duni, and the International Youth Center in Primorsko. conditions for different sports, e.g. ski mountaineering, Various harbors and piers provide opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, etc. yachting, surfing, water skiing, scuba diving, motor Unesco Heritage driving. The UNESCO List of World Heritage now features over 300 landmarks in our country. Nine Bulgarian wonders For more info, look for Varna City Info - seven cultural and two natural sites – are included Guide and Burgas City Info Guide, among them: Rila Monastery, Nessebar, The Kazanluk www.cityinfoguide.net Tomb, The Sveshtari Tomb, The Madara Horseman, The Bulgaria in Brief 13

Boyana Church, The Ivanovo Rock Monasteries, Pirin Vegetarian Dishes National Park, Sreburna Lake. Kashkaval (or sirene) pane – fried yellow (or white) Village Tourism cheese In the recent years village tourism in Bulgaria successfully Chushki byurek – fried peppers stuffed with egg and competes with similar activities in other European cheese countries. The stay in a Bulgarian village provides Sirene po shopski – white cheese, egg, tomatoes and a unique opportunity to submerge in a traditional peppers baked in a pot. environment and lifestyle, which spans over the ages. Desserts Just imagine magical views, charming villas, guest The garash torta is the Bulgarian equivalent of the houses and family hotels, organic food, hospitable local Sacher Torte, made from eggs, walnuts and cocoa. people, over 600 mineral springs, the scent of the rose oil and you will gain only a glimpse of what awaits you Snacks in the Bulgarian countryside. Snacks (‘zakuska’) are available almost everywhere in tiny shops or from stands on the street. Adventure Tourism Banitsa – fillo dough pastry filled with white cheese Adventure tourism in Bulgaria is gaining strong Gevrek – like a very dry bagel, sold from big bags on momentum because all regions of the country are street corners If you feel really adventurous,, try Boza equally suitable for high-adrenaline thrills. In most of – a thick malt drink with a distinct smell. (It’s said to be the mountains you can enjoy incredible rock caves, an acquired taste!) climb amazing peaks, and finally, soar in the skies with a paraglider. Some of our famous resorts like Bansko, Tips Borovets and Pamporovo offer plenty of opportunities to practice winter extreme sports. Business Days All Government offices are closed on Saturday and Bulgarian cuisine Sunday. Most of the private sector companies however Bulgarian cuisine consists of plenty of fresh vegetables, have their weekend on Saturday and Sunday too. eaten raw, roasted or stewed with meat in terra-cotta pots, lots of garlic, onions, oil and spices. Influences National Holidays 1 January – New Year’s Day of Bulgaria’s neighbours, Turkey and Greece are also 3 March – National Holiday /The liberation of the present in dishes such as ‘sarmi’ (stuffed vine leaves), Bulgarian land from the Ottoman Empire/is celebrated moussaka and baklava. A salad and rakia (Bulgarian on this day. schnapps) are the obligatory start for a meal. 1 May – Labour and International Worker’s Solidarity You may find some traditional Bulgarian Dishes, listed Day below which are worth trying: 6 May – Gergyovden (St. George’s Day), and the Salads Bulgarian Army’s Day Shopska salata – chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, onions 24 May – Bulgarian Education and Culture, and Slavic and peppers sprinkled with Bulgarian white cheese Script Day Snezhanka – thick creamy yoghurt with chopped 6 September – Unification Day cucumber or gherkins, walnuts and garlic 22 September – Independence Day Kyopolou – roasted aubergines, peppers, loads of 1 November – Day of the Bulgarian Enlighteners garlic, parsley (Holiday for all educational institutions) 24 December – Christmas Eve Soups 25, 26 December – Christmas Days Bob chorba – traditional bean soup with plenty of herbs Beggars Shkembe chorba – tripe soup with garlic, vinegar and As in other big cities, Sofia is also a place where one chili, quite tasty if you can bring yourself to try it can meet beggars and homeless people. Although they Tarator – cold yoghurt and cucumber soup. might be disturbing, ignoring them is the most effective way of coping with the situation. Meat Dishes On the other hand there are the predominantly gypsy Kavarma – meat and vegetable stew, usually served gangs with small babies who usually have to hand in individual pots over their earnings at the end of the day. Do your Kyufteta – spicy meat balls best to avoid them without talking to them. If you feel Kebaptcheta – spicy minced meat, sausage shaped endangered or harassed by their behavior call the police and grilled. on the emergency number 112. 14 Bulgaria in Brief Bulgarian restaurant Chevermeto – whatever is at heart Bulgarian restaurant “Chevermeto” is the first authentic, real Bulgarian restaurant in Sofia established in 1996. With its opening the restaurant has a tradition every night the rich musical program to be attended by a beautiful folklore composition, the unique Bulgarian folklore and popular songs. The great Valya Balkanska, the unforgettable Stefka Sabotinova, Nadka Karadzhova and Kostadin Gugov have performed at the restaurant. For years has been singing the national singer Binka Dobreva from the Mystery of Bulgarian Voices. The actress and singer Stefka Berova has also been present in the restaurant’s repertoire for a long time. Tanya Skechelieva from the “Filip Kutev” Ensemble, which won the Pirin Folk Fest 2013, Margarita Popova, Sonya Ivanova and Ilian Iliev continue to sing at the restaurant every evening. The unique Ensemble “Gotse Delchev” – Sofia performs its beautiful spectacle including national dances from all regions of the country every night. In our capital only Bulgarian restaurant “Chevermeto” maintains every evening its unique program for the past 17 years. Bulgarian restaurant “Chevermeto” combines authentic atmosphere, dishes from old recipes and a folklore spectacle. An atmosphere offering real Bulgarian comfort and turning us back in time to roots and traditions. For special occasions as wedding celebrations, jubilee events and others the restaurant offers authentic customs. Meeting the guests with bagpipes, bread with honey and salt, rituals left as traditions from our ancestors during the ages. We will take you to a Bulgarian fairytale as an old legend. And maybe that’s the evening you want to have? This can come true only at our Bulgarian restaurant “Chevermeto”. NDK - Prono, 1, Bulgaria Blvd., phone: +359 2 9 630 308, cell: +359 885 630 308 Every day from 12.00 to 00.00, www.chevermeto-bg.com BulgariaBulgaria in in Brief Brief 15

NDK - Prono, 1, Bulgaria Blvd., phone: +359 2 9 630 308, cell: +359 885 630 308 Every day from 12.00 to 00.00, www.chevermeto-bg.com 16 Bulgaria in Brief

Alphabet Аа a (as in cat) Пп p (as in pot) Бб b (as in bus) Рр r (as in red) Вв v (as in very) Сс s (as in sit) Гг g (as in good) Тт t (as in tree) Дд d (as in dog) Уу u (as in yule) Ее e (as in egg) Фф f (as in foot) Жж zh (like’s‘ in leisure) Хх h (like ’ch‘ in Bach) Зз z (as in zoo) Цц ts (as in puts) Ии i (as in instant) Чч ch (as in check) Йй y (as in young) Шш sh (as in shut) Кк k (as in kick) Щщ sht (like ’shed‘ in pushed) Лл l (as in love) Ъъ a (like ’u‘ in but) Мм m (as in marry) Ьь (consonant soften ing sign) Нн n (as in no) Юю yu (like you) Оо o (as in hot) Яя ya (as in yank)

Months January januari April april July yuli October oktomvri February fevruari May may August avgust November noemvri March mart June yuni September septemvri December dekemvri

Week Days

Monday ponedelnik Wednesday sryada Friday petak Tuesday vtornik Thursday chetvartak Saturday sabota Sunday nedelya

Numbers

1 edno 12 dvanadeset 53 petdeset i tri 2 dve 13 trinadeset 64 shestdeset i chetiri 3 tri 14 chetirinadeset 75 sedemdeset i pet 4 chetiri 15 petnadeset 86 osemdeset i shest 5 pet 16 shestnadeset 97 devetdeset i sedem 6 shest 17 sedemnadeset 100 sto 7 sedem 18 osemnadeset 1,000 hilyada 8 osem 19 devetnadeset 10,000 deset hilyadi 9 devet 20 dvadeset 100,000 sto hilyadi 10 deset 31 trideset i edno 1,000,000 edin milion 11 edinadeset 42 chetirideset i dve Bulgaria in Brief 17 BULGARIAN SPOKEN ENGLISH Поздрави Pozdravi Greetings

Добро утро [Do’bro ‘utro] Good morning Добър ден [‘Dobar ‘den] Good day Добър вечер [‘Dobar ‘vecher] Good evening Здравейте [Zdra’veite] Hallo Как сте? [‘Kak ste?] How are you? Добре [Do’bre] Good Аз съм добре [‘Az sam do’bre] I’m all right Благодаря [Blagoda’rya] Thank you Извинявайте [Izvi’nyavaite] Excuse me Как се казвате? [‘Kak se ‘kazvate?] What’s your name? Къде се намира...? [Ka’de se na’mira] Where is ...?

Местоположение Mestopolozhenie Getting Around

... улица/булевард [‘ulitsa/bule’vard ...] ...Street/Boulevard ... площад/паметник [plosh’tad/’pametnik] ... Square/Monument ... пощата/летището [‘poshtata/le’tishteto] ... the post/the airport ... ресторант [resto’rant ...] ... restaurant ...... пазара/аптеката [pa’zara/ap’tekata] ... the market/pharmacy ... хотел [ho’tel ...] ... hotel ...... гарата/автогарата [‘garata/’avto’garata] ... the station/the bus station магазин [maga’zin] shop спирка [‘spirka] bus/tram stop първата/втората [‘parvata/’vtorata the first/second пресечка pre’sechka] intersection...... наляво [na’lyavo] ... on the left ... надясно [na’dyasno] ... on the right ... направо [na’pravo] ... straight ahead

Пазаруване Pazaruvane Shopping Колко струва това? [‘Kolko ‘struva to’va?] How much does this cost? Къде мога да купя?... [Ka’de ‘moga da ‘kupya?] Where can I buy?... дрехи [‘drehi] clothes обувки [o’buvki] shoes храна [hra’na] food цигари [tsi’gari] cigarettes подаръци [po’daratsi] presents евтино [‘evtino] cheap скъпо [‘skapo] expensive

Храна и напитки Hrana i napitki Eating & Drinking Имате ли меню на [‘Imate li me’nyu na Do you have a menu in английски? ang’liiski?] English? предястия [pre’dyastiya] starters основни ястия [os’novni ‘yastiya] main courses десерт [de’sert] dessert вегетариански [vegeta’rianski] vegetarian пиле [‘pile] chicken риба [‘riba] fish свинско [‘svinsko] pork телешко [‘teleshko] veal / beef картофи [kar’tofi] potatoes ориз [o’riz] rice kафе [ka’fe] coffee чай [‘chai] tea горещо [go’reshto] hot (temp) бира [‘bira] bier бяло вино [‘byalo ‘vino] white wine червено вино [cher’veno ‘vino] red wine вода [vo’da] water Сметката, ако обичате. [‘Smetkata, a’ko o’bichate.] Can we have the bill, please? 18 overview

SOFIA - THE CAPITAL Experience the spiritual energy of the most beautiful churches in the capital The Bulgarian capital named after an ancient temple, is one of the oldest cities in Europe. As early as the • St. Alexander Nevsky Temple Church - the largest Neolithic age the territory of the present-day million city Cathedral Temple on the Balkan Peninsula was inhabited by primitive societies. Archaeologists • St. Sofia Church - one of the oldest churches in Sofia, continue to discover implements and tools from the which gave its name to the city. • St. George Rotunda - the oldest building in Sofia, Stone, Copper and Bronze ages in the city and in its included in UNESCO’s World Heritage list vicinity. • Boyana Church - beautifully preserved monument of Sofia’s rich history is illuminated by the sanctity and the Bulgarian medieval art with over 240 murals. It isalso symbolism of its name (Sofia – the holy God’s wisdom). entered in UNESCO’s World Heritage list In 4th c. AD, Emperor Constantine the Great exclaimed • Sofia Synagogue - the third largest Jewish temple in – “Serdika is my Rome”, with reference to the city, that Europe. saw rise and fall, that assumed different faces, and • Sveta Nedelya Cathedral Church - it is located in the became known by different names – Serdika, Sredets, very heart of the city center and has 800-years history Triaditsa and Sofia. • Russian Church “St. Nikolay” is one of Sofia’s most As early as the rule of the Roman Emperor Marcus attractive tourist landmarks and is also preferred by the Ulpius Trayan (98-117) Serdika was a polis described professional and non-professional photographers. by the most distinguished historians in Antiquity as • The was built in 16th century “expansive and noble”, as well as “big and famous”. and it is the only functioning mosque in Sofia. The In the heart of the city that emerged 2800 years ago, mosque is a remnant of the Ottoman rule of Bulgaria. rises the Saint Sofia Basilica – the symbol which is the main element of capital city’s cote-of-arms. Erected Learn about the rich history of the country by visiting in the early 6th century, the temple became such an Sofia’s most famous museums impressive site of the town, that following 14th century • The National History Museum is one of the largest everyone started referring to it with the name Sofia, historical museums on the Balkans, preserving over 650 which replaced the Slavic name Sredets used in the cultural monuments and artifacts previous centuries. The toponym Sredets was indicative • The Ethnographic Museum preserves and exhibits of its central location on the Balkan Peninsula. over 50,000 artifacts illustrating the life and the traditions The city situated in the centre of Moesia, Thrace and of the Bulgarian people Macedonia has been the official centre of the Bulgarian • The Archaeological Museum is the oldest museum in nation for 127 years, since shortly after the liberation of the country and one of the largest in Europe the country from Ottoman rule it was declared capital • The National Military History Museum keeps the of Bulgaria. richest Bulgarian state collections of weapons, uniforms, In the city named after an early Christian temple and flags andphotographs with almost a million and a half population, rise more than 70 Eastern Orthodox churches and monasteries, Do not miss the symbols of Bulgarian art and culture many of which have become emblematic for the • The National Art Gallery presents over 3,000 artworks Bulgarian capital whose motto is: “Grows but does by famous Bulgarian artists not age”. • The City Art Gallery of Sofia contains some of the The city centre is an eclectic mix of Stalin-era richest collections of Bulgarian art neoclassical and West European architecture, which • The National Opera and Ballet Theatre is the exact enchants with its aristocratic feel and Eastern charm. place, where you can hear world - famous stars of the Sofia is the only European capital, situated in the opera art and watch original ballet performances foothills of a mountain that rises up to 2500 m height and where the distance to modern ski-runs is a mere 20 Visit emblematic places where you can feel the pulse minute drive from its centre. In Vitosha, which has been of the capital declared a National Park, there are two reserves and a • The open-air art bazaar at the Alexander Nevsky multitude of natural sites with stunning beauty. Square (mapE3) From ancient times, Sofia was well-known as a spa • The most famous shopping and pedestrian area centre, thanks to its 18 healing mineral and thermal Vitosha Boulevard offers plenty of shops to splash out springs. Those springs are depicted on its cote-of-arms in and also many modern cafeterias and restaurants for and have been drawing settlers and conquerors from your entertainment(mapB5;B3) ancient times to these days. • The park in front of the National Palace of Culture The cultural heritage of Sofia combines traces from (NDK) (map D4) • Vitosha National Park - the mountain which is the the civilizations of the Neolith andthe Thracians, of local’s favorite haunt and getaway destination (map the ancient Greeks and Romans, of the Slavs and the back) proto-Bulgarians and the Ottomans, These tribes and ethnicities molded the face of the city through victories Delight in the verve of Bulgarian folklore and taste and defeats and through consequent cultural influence. traditional Bulgarian hospitality by visiting an authentic The socialist realism and the dynamic changes of Bulgarian restaurant modernity are still defining the development of Sofia (Make your choice on page 42 of this guide) in quite controversial manner, but are also part of its Stay longer than planned and return again to the city cultural heritage and inextinguishable charm. whose name means Wisdom! overview 19

St. Alexander Nevski Temple Church (map E3) The place for which all tourists make a beeline is the St. Alexander Nevski Temple Church. The cathedral was built in honour of the Russian Tsar Alexander II, also called here the “Tsar Liberator”, whose army liberated Bulgaria from the Ottoman rule, and was named after St. Alexander Nevski, the patron Saint of the Tsar and the Romanov dynasty. The foundation stone was laid in 1882 but the building was not completed until 1912. The square surrounding the cathedral is full of small souvenir stalls (winter and summer alike) and is a popular place for political demonstrations especially in the last 25 years.

National Assembly (map E3) The Parliament (National Assembly) building, listed as a cultural monument, is situated on the square of the same name with Tsar Osvoboditel Blvd. It was built in three stages from 1884 to 1928, on plans of the Viennese architect Yovanovich. Above the main entrance runs the slogan “Unity Makes Strength”.

St. George Rotunda Place (map C3) The red brick rotunda church of St. George is considered to be the oldest building in Sofia. It is situated behind the Sheraton Hotel, amid remains of the ancient town of Serdica. Three layers of frescoes have been discovered inside the church, the earliest dating back to the 10th century. Magnificent frescoes of 22 prophets over 2 meters tall crown the dome.

St. Nikolai Russian Church (map D3) Built in 1912 by Russian workmen, this church is situated on the corner of Tsar Osvoboditel Blvd. and Benkovski Str. The church preserves the typical style of Moscow’s decorative arts, painting and architecture. The high dome is surrounded by four smaller domes. The external decoration of the Russian Church is a joy to behold with its exquisite and rich colors.

The Saint Sofia Basilica (map E3) Is one of the four symbols on the capital’s coat of arms. After long years of hard work on the project by a large team of archeologists, historians, architects and preservationists, the capital residents and visitors will have the opportunity to get in touch with the rich archeological heritage of Sofia.

The Statue of Sofia (map C3) The Statue of Sofia, is a twenty-four-meter high monument, It was erected in front of Bulbank in the city center in January 2001 replacing a communist-era monument of Lenin It weighs four tons and it is molded out of bronze and forged copper. 20 overview SOFIA CITY REGION Population: 1 291 591 Area: 1 310, 8 sq. km (1.2% of the national territory) Area dialing code: 00 359 2 Main city: Sofia (capital) Sofia population: 1 202 761 The capital city of Bulgaria is situated in the geographic center of Southeastern Europe thus Sofia Municipality serving as a natural entrance to the Middle East. 33, Moskovska Str. (map E3) The city is easily accessible being only two hours & 02 937 73 03 away by plane from the Central European capitals www.sofia.bg and Budapest, and providing easy transport The decline of Sofia during the Ottoman Empire connection to the other big European cities. The was followed by its rejuvenation after its liberation tourists and business travelers have a smooth way in 1879, when Sofia was chosen as the capital of into the city whose airport services 295 regular Bulgaria at the First National Constituent Assembly. flights per week operated by 20 foreign and 6 The architectural plans of 1881-1882 for the Bulgarian airlines to about 40 destinations all over renovation of the city were followed by a brisk and the world. straight-forward period of construction. In 1900 the City Council approved the emblem of Land Sofia and the motto “It Grows but Does not Age”. The region occupies the central part of the Sofia During the years of the totalitarian communist Plain (with average altitude of 550 m) and it is regime (9 September 1944 – 10 November encircled by the Balkan Mountains (in the north) 1989) Sofia became the most important national and the Vitosha Mountain and the Lyulin Mountain economic, academic and cultural centre. From the (in the south). The area abounds in curative mineral epoch of the so called “socialist growth”, however, springs (Gorna Banya, Ovcha Kupel, Bankya). The the capital inherited a great deal of problems, the Vitosha Mountain is an international winter sports resolving of which are at present the top priority of destination. the democratically elected City council of Sofia. Climate People, Towns and Culture The capital city enjoys moderately hot summers, The population of Sofia is almost 1,3 million people sometimes snowy winters and beautiful springs and with high average population density. In the past autumns. couple of years the unemployment rate in the city has been the lowest in the country. The workforce Through the Centuries in Sofia is highly educated, motivated and flexible. Founded seven thousand years ago, Sofia is the The city creates and develops 80% of the intellectual second oldest European city. It has been given recourse in the country with 19 universities situated several names in the course of history and the on its territory. remnants from older civilizations can still be seen Sofia has been the capital of Bulgaria since April today. 3, 1879. It is the permanent seat of the National Serdika was the name of the central dwelling of the Assembly (the Parliament), the President, the ancient Thracian tribe known as “Serdi”. It bore that Council of Ministers, the central governing bodies name when it became part of the Bulgarian state at of various agencies, political parties and public the beginning of the ninth century and was soon organizations. recognized as one of the most important feudal Sofia accommodates the largest scientific and towns, At this point of time the city acquired the cultural institutions in Bulgaria. Slavic name Sredets. Near Sofia lies the Boyana church, which is one Economy of the most valuable memorials of Bulgarian and Sofia is the biggest and the most dynamic center of European culture. The church is full of wonderful the economic life in Bulgaria. The Gross Domestic frescoes, acclaimed by specialists as “the best Product (GDP), generated in Sofia, forms 29% of the examples of Eastern mediaeval art during its twelve national GDP. Half of the foreign direct investments in centuries’ history”. Bulgaria are concentrated in the capital. One third of overview 21 the annual tax revenues in the national budget come the way. In many places around the city centre are from Sofia. The service sector is far more developed erected large billboards with a public transport city than the production one. Industry plays a secondary map in English, which may also serve as a point of role and the most developed sectors are machine direction and reference. tool engineering and metal processing, metallurgy, Driving in Sofia may be a traumatic experience food and beverage production, paper and textile particularly, during rush hours (8.00-10.00 h and industries. The private sector in Sofia is forming 17.00-19.00 h). Traffic jams are inevitable along the 90% of the city economy. central city roads and the busier peripheral capital boulevards. A common occurrence along the A1 Banks and Exchange and A2 motorways, and the international E 79 route, Money can be exchanged safely at most banks and are the Friday night and Sunday afternoon queues of also at reputable exchange bureaus. (Hotels and traffic as a lot of capital residents drive in and out to airports tend to give less favorable rates). Exchange the countryside. bureaus are required to display clearly the exact At the event of an accident, the traffic police (KAT– & exchange rates and they are no longer allowed to 165, 02 982 49 01) should be called and a report charge a commission for money exchange, so check have to be filed. The process is lengthy but necessary this first. Regarding the exchange rates, by the time for any insurance claims. (Check with your rent a of composing the current issue of this magazine BG car company about formalities!) At the event of a lev is worth EURO 1.95583; USD 1.39; GBR 2.24. breakdown, there is a 24-hour Road Assistance Banking hours run from 08.30 to 16.30 Monday service: & 02 91 146, from cell phone: &146. to Friday. Some banks are also open till 17.00. The central dispatch office is open 24 hours a day There are also some bank offices situated in big and is located at 3, Pozitano Str. (& 02 980 33 08). commercial centers which are open till 22.00 and English and German are the spoken languages there. through the weekends. Exchange bureaus are Charges for towing range. There is a basic fee of usually open from 09.00 until 17.00 or 18.00 and Euro 10 plus Euro 1.40 per km. The usual waiting stay open later in the summer. Some of them are open 24 hours throughout the summer. Sofia has time is between 5 and 30 minutes. plenty of ATMs, with particular concentration in the city center. All major European and North American Car Parks debit and credit cards are accepted in the country. The main car parking areas in the centre are: • Makedonia Sq. Airport Information • TZUM (Maria Luiza Blvd.) • The corner of Evlogi Georgiev Blvd. and Gurko For flight information: www.sofia-airport.bg Str. Located 10 km (6 miles) east of the city centre, the • The corner of Evlogi Georgiev and Yanko Sakazov busy two-terminal airport is linked to the most of the Blvd. world capitals. The bright, modern and smoke-free • The corner of Frityof Nansen and Bulgaria Blvd. Sofia Airport has the capacity to serve 2.5 million (NDK, underground) passengers. A new “Terminal 2” building, designed • NDK (Vitosha Blvd.) with special attention to disabled passengers was You may park for up to 2 hours in the city centre, opened in December 2006. A large parking lot is in the designated “blue zones”: opposite the located in front of the old terminal building. A new Parliament, by the National Art Gallery, off Rakovski multi-level parking garage providing 820 parking Street near the Cathedral, etc. The fee for up to one spaces is linked to the departures area of the new passenger terminal. The car parks are open non- hour parking is 2 leva. Vouchers are usually sold stop and parking fee is 2 to 3 leva per hour. Avoid by attendants in these locations and they will help taking airport taxis other than “O.K. Supertrans” you fill them out. (Please note: some car parks are providing services to the city centre for BGN 10/ privately run and prices vary). Euro 5. The regular N84 bus line covers the route Use your common sense and don’t park in restricted Sofia Airport–Sofia University. Tickets cost BGN 1. zones even if everyone else seems to be doing so. Sofia City Council are hot on the heels of their Transport Western counterparts with yellow wheel clamps, The street names are written in Cyrillic, which might and if that’s not bad enough they’ll even tow your make finding your bearings harder. Therefore if the car away, usually to the car park near the Hilton Hotel map is not sufficient, please ask a local to show you or the one next to the Central Railway Station. 22 overview

Postal Services Railway Central post station – Central Railway Station (Tsentralna Gara), 6, Gen. Y.V. Gurko Str. (7-20.30h) www.bdz.bg Main postal rates: small letters - 0.60lv. (For BG) This is the main railway station with regular daily Package (parcels) 0-1kg - 2.15lv. (For BG), services to Bulgaria’s main cities, towns and 23.70 - 46.90lv.(for EU) to 5kg - 3lv.(For BG), abroad. Train travel is relatively cheap if you are 43.20-179.90lv.(For EU). prepared to put up with longer travelling times. On the other hand for those who feel daunted driving–it Public Transport is a more relaxing way to see the country. First class Sofia offers cheap and extensive public transport. is quite affordable. You must book your seats before There are trams, buses, and trolley buses as well your trip. as a short section of the city subway (please see map for details) which covers most of the city. There Taxi is also a fleet of privately run “Marsh-route taxis”, All legal and registered taxi cabs must be yellow and which covers more obscure routes. (Ticket price operated by meter. Rates per km are between 0.79 1.50 lv. Pay the driver as you get on and ask for – 0.96 leva, Any starting and call-out charges must your receipt.) be displayed on the back side windows according Public transport runs daily from 5.30 till 23.00 for to the law. buses and trams. The tickets forsingle use, for any distance on any Travelers with Disabilities tram, bus or trolley-bus line.are at the price of1 lev. Sofia isn’t the best place in the world to visit if you Transit Cards: One day, all lines – 4.00 leva; Five have mobility problems or other physical disabilities. days, all lines – 15.00 leva; One month, all lines – Although all public buildings are required to be 50.00 leva wheelchair-accessible and provide suitable toilet Single trip tickets are sold at kiosks and newspaper facilities, this is still a matter of future. stands at the major stops or by the driver of the vehicle. You have to punch them inside the vehicle Daily Costs (look for the metal punch on the walls of the vehicle. By Western European standards, Sofia is very The punchers are mostly painted in orange). reasonably priced, especially regarding the most If you transfer you must use another single trip basic items – from food to clothing. As for dining ticket. If your luggage exceeds the size 60x40x40 and drinking, the sheer number of restaurants and you have to punch a second ticket. The same rule bars keeps prices down. applies if you travel together with your pet. Tickets On the other hand, accommodation in Sofia is are inspected at random by conductors. The fine is 20.00 leva. generally more expensive than in the rest of the country and prices are analogous to the average Bus Lines European ones. If you are prepared to buy your own lunch, stay in The Central Bus Station is a modern transport hostels and stick to the least expensive bars and complex with covered area 7 173 sq. m. The building is air-conditioned and secured. There is restaurants, you could scrape by on around BGN 70/ also a pharmacy, room for mothers with children, Euro 35. If you are staying in a good B&B, eating medical center and special amenities for people with out in medium-range restaurants most of the nights disabilities and physical infirmities. Eight shops, and drinking often in bars, you’ll go through at least a restaurant, few cafes and bank branches are BGN 150/Euro 75. situated on the first floor. There are eight toilets and If you are planning to stay in the best hotels and to two with features for people with disabilities. At have a big night out, you must be prepared to the three up levels are situated carriers’ offices. A spend at least BGN500/Euro 250. Generally if you waiting room (1500 sq. m. total area) and 57 ticket are traveling alone you’ll spend much more on desks are situated at the ground floor . About 2 250 travelers per hour pass through the waiting room. accommodation than you would in a group of two The tickets payment can be done in cash or by debit or more, Most hotels do have single rooms, but their and credit cards. prices are fixed at about 70-80 percents of the price AUTHENTICoverview 23 BULGARIAN CUISINE Restaurant POD LIPITE Phone: 02 871 00 69, 02 971 71 62

1010 Phone: 02 871 00 69 02 971 71 62

Spring 2014 24 March - 11 April 1, Elin 28 April Pelin - 16 May Str. phone: 02/ 26 May866 - 13 50 June 53

02/ 866 50 59 Phone: 02 871 00 69 cell: 0886 80 12 27 02 971 71 62

of a double room. prices are significantly lower than in other countries Sofia offers fantastic choice of restaurants at in Central and Eastern Europe. comparatively modest prices. Our recommendation is to avoid the extras and concentrate on the main courses, which start at around BGN 10/Euro 5. Medical Services Tipping in a restaurant is expected – around 10-15 Take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance %, even when the service has been dire. Taxi drivers to cover the full period of your stay in the country. expect a tip too, in the same percentages. If you are EU citizen, you need to take an EHIC with you. The card gives you access to state-provided medical treatment only. You will not be covered for Entertainment medical repatriation, on-going medical treatment or The city is a pleasant location to live and have fun in. treatment of a non-urgent condition. The standards Sofia’s appeal is in its cosmopolitan atmosphere and of medical care are excellent. The Accident and various opportunities for entertainment and tourism. Emergency Hospital for Sofia is the Pirogov hospital The citizens and visitors of the city can choose from at 21, Gen. Totleben Blvd., opposite the Rodina Hotel more than 3000 restaurants, cafes and bars which (& 02 915 44 11). offer an excellent cuisine and a wide variety of good There is a ward for foreigners in the University quality wines. Hospital “Sv. Anna” in Mladost-1 (& 02 975 90 00). The prices are definitely among the lowest in Europe. Your Embassy may be able to refer you to a doctor (See the Daily cost section above). who speaks your language. Sofia is also the focal point of cultural and artistic For emergencies: Ambulance - &150 life in the country and boasts 31 movie theatres, 23 theatres, 27 museums and numerous art galleries Other useful numbers: and exhibition halls. The city hosts a series of 24-hour pharmacies: & 178 international concerts and festivals and the ticket PrivatePolyclinic: IMC - & 02 944 93 26 24 OAccommodVERVIEW ation

Sofia through the Centuries Archeological level of the Saint Sofia Basilica Temporary exposition Working hours: from 10 to 18 h last entering hour 17 h Day off: Monday Sofia, 2, Parizh Str. In the end of May was opened the archeological level of the Saint Sofia Basilica. The temporary exposition presents the history of the main necropolis of Serdika as well as the early church buildings beneath the basilica – 18 centuries of history collected on one place. The exposition is completed by multimedia presentations and holograms of findings discovered when the church building was researched during the years. The Saint Sofia Basilica is one of the four symbols on the capital’s coat of arms. After long years of work on the project a large team of archeologists, historians, architects and preservationists, capital residents and capital visitors will have the opportunity to touch the rich archeological heritage of Sofia. The Saint Sofia Basilica is established in the heart of the eastern necropolis of Serdika. The multiple tomb facilities found beneath it, various in type and kind, date back to the III century to the beginning of the V century. Although rarely some tombs have murals. A typical example for decoration with Christian symbolic is the tomb of Honorius (V century), discovered northeast of the Saint Sofia Basilica. On the entrance placed is a sign with red letters reading “Honorius, slave of God”. Besides the tomb architecture beneath the basilica discovered are the remains of several earlier churches. The first church has a single nave with apse and polychrome mosaics in

two panels - Apse (“Paradise”), and in the nave - with geometric motifs. In the end of V – the beginning of the VI century assumed is to be the beginning of the construction of the fourth, current three-nave, with transept two-storey narthex, cruciform St. Sofia basilica.

AccommodOVERVationIEW 2525

Municipal Cultural Institute - Sofia History Museum Sofia 1000, 27, Ekzarh Yosif Str. In its funds the Sofia History Museum has over 100 000 original museum valuables of various historical periods. They are distributed in the following collections: archeological, numismatic, art, photographic, documental and historical and ethnographical which on the other hand are divided into 29 collections. The museum has scientific archive, negative fund and scientific library. A large part of the museum valuables have high scientific, historical and art value and some of them are unique: the golden Thracian bowl of village of Kazichene, the Mercedes automobile of King Ferdinand; the Golden carriage, Louis XVI style, having belonged to the French queen Marie Antoinette and brought from Versailles in 1893 on the occasion of the wedding of Prince Ferdinand with Princess Maria Luisa; a typewriter of , items from the personal office of ; templates from the first Bulgarian coins and banknotes; import furniture and urban clothing from the end of XIX – the beginning of the XX century and many others. The Sofia History Museum at the moment does not have a permanent exhibition. The building of the Central Mineral Bath is in a process of adaptation for its purposes. The Vrana Park in Sofia opened for the first time for visitors Visitors can pay it a visit every Saturday and Sunday from 10 to 16 h. Every hour there is a guided tour. For access paid is a ticket of 5 BGN for adults and 2 BGN for children from 5 to

17 years of age. For younger children and people over 65 the entry is free. For organized groups the tour will cost 1 BGN for the children and 4 BGN for adults. The park where the Vrana royal palace is located has an area of 968 acres. There are 821 decorative plants in it. Routs, ready for the visitors, are about 350 acres. In 2001 Simeon Sakskoburggotski donated most of the park to Capital Municipality as in the agreement there is a clause for free access of citizens. 26 Accommodation

Room Service TV in All Rooms Minibar in All Rooms Airconditioned Rooms Restaurant Bar Business Facilities Swimming Pool Fitness Facilities Casino Hotel Parking Credit Cards WiFi Handicape Room with good view hotels Please note: Number of stars according to the Bulgarian classification

2-4, Budapeshta Str. h 2 map D3 111, Alexandar Malinov Blvd. h 5 map back & + 359 2 8 107 777 Public transport: & 02 807 07 07 Public transport: fax: +359 2 8 107 770 Tm -20, 22; Metro fax: 02 807 07 08 B-413,113,213 e-mail: [email protected] e-mail:[email protected] www.arenadiserdica.com www.hisofiahotel.com Double rooms - 40, Suits - 23 Room rates: EURO 140 - 300 Room rates: from EURO 70.00 Strategically located in the heart of the city, right The hotel offers luxurious bedrooms with flat next to the main states institutions, business centers screen television, Hi-speed & Wi-Fi internet access and banks, as well as to the cultural and historial & separate bath & shower. International Executive places, the luxurious Arena di Serdica Residence Chef providing variety of dining experiences rang- Hotel Sofia is excellent choice for business and cultural trips. ing from informal all day Brasserie to “InCanto” Fine Dining offering Mediterranean Cuisine. 9 state of art conference suites for between 10 to 300 delegates at highly competitive rates. ESPRIT Fitness & Spa including 19 m indoor swimming pool & gym with latest “Technogym” equipment. In close proximity to airport and 1, Gen. Yosif V. Gurko Str. h 3 map D3 downtown. Substantial parking available. 130 fax: +359 2 811 0801 Public transport: rooms (116 double/ twin/ 10 Executive/ 4 Suites). Reservations: Tb-9; Tm-12,17 & +359 2 811 0800 e-mail: [email protected] Kempinski Hotel Zografski Sofia Room rates: EURO 100-510 Located in the very city center, overlooking the on the doorstep of the National Theatre and the City Art Gallery. The hotel features 105 unique spacious rooms of over 50 sq.m. At guest’s disposal 100, J. Bourchier Blvd. h 6 map C9 are also 17 comfortable oversized suites including 2 & 02 969 22 22 Public transport: Grand suites and 3 Panorama suites with balcony, fax: 02 969 22 23 Metro; Tm-9 providing the finest lodging in Sofia. All rooms have e-mail: [email protected] air condition with individually controlled temperature, www.kempinski.com satellite and pay TV, inroom safe and electronic lock Situated on posh Lozenets hill overlooking system, separate bathtub and shower cabin, bath- the bustling city and with a panoramic view room telephone. Direct international dial telephones, on Vitosha Mountain. 446 rooms and suites, voicemail messaging and high speed Internet 4 restaurants, 3 bars, most extensive cater- access. Conference facilities seating from 10 to ing facilities in Sofia, pool & fitness, bowl- 150, gourmet restaurant, café, lobby bar, Private ing alley, shopping arcade, casino, landscaped Lounge, Sofia club, health centre, indoor parking. party gardens. Comprehensive 5-star services. AccommodationAccommodation 27

Radisson BLU Grand Hotel Sofia Hotel Balkan

4, Narodno Sabranie Sq. h 7 map E4 & 02 933 43 33 Public transport: fax: 02 933 43 35 Metro 5, Sveta Nedelya Sq. h 9 map C3 e-mail:[email protected] & 02 981 65 41 Public transport: www.sofia.radissonblu.com fax: 02 980 64 64 Metro; Tm-9,10, 12, 18 Room rates: EURO 120 - 145 Room rates: EURO 135 - 225 Enviably located in the most attractive part of Located in the heart of Sofia, it is ideally situ- the city centre, on the famous yellow paved ated just a stroll from the business and com- square, overlooking Parliament and Alexander mercial district. Recognized as one of the city’s Nevski Cathedral. The hotel is in close proxim- grandest hotels and architectural landmarks, the ity to the business district as well as many Sheraton Sofia offers guests an exceptional expe- of Sofia’s captivating tourist attractions, mak- rience of Bulgaria’s finest culture and service. ing it ideal for business and leisure travellers. Archways of ceiling-high columns, distinctly con- 136 rooms, including Economy, Standard, structed doors and moldings, and imported Italian Superior, Business Class rooms & suits and marble floors outline the lobby of the hotel. Offers Junior suits, non-smoking rooms and rooms 184 splendid, soundproof rooms and suites, includ- with facilities for handicapped people. All they are ing one Presidential Suite, 17 spacious suites, equipped with high-quality amenities including Free 17 smart rooms and 71 non-smoking rooms. wireless Internet access (WiFi). Fitness Center, Highlights include a complete 24-hour business Restaurant & Bar on Mezzanine, Irish Flannagans center, shopping, hairdresser/beauty salon, 24-hour Bar, in-house London Casino. The seven ful- concierge and room service, butler service, laun- ly-equipped meeting halls accommodate busi- dry, and dry cleaning available seven days a week. ness meetings or special events for 400 guests. 28 Accommodation

149, Tsarigradsko Shose Blvd. h 10 map back & 02 817 81 00 Public transport: fax: 02 974 30 90 Bus 114, 1, 6, Metro Station 14, Shipka Str. h 12 map F3 e-mail: [email protected] & + 359 2 9489 489 Public transport: www.hotelexposofia.com Fax: + 359 2 9489490 Metro, B - 306, 280 Room Rates: EUR 69 – 109 cell: +359 886 399 504 Tb - 2, 5 Take advantage and enjoy the central location of e-mail: [email protected] the Best Western Hotel Expo in the heart of the business area of the Bulgarian capital and just site: www.crystalpalace-sofia.com within 7 minute drive from Airport Sofia. A step Single Rooms - 53, Junior Suits - 3, Suits - 7 away from Sofia’s premier International Exhibition Room rates: EURO 130 - 270 and Congress center, the 4 star Best Western Hotel Crystal Palace is one of the best four star- Expo features 99 rooms, flexible meeting rooms, a rated Boutique Hotels in Sofia because of its state-of-art Business Lounge and elegant bar and great cuisine, cozy rooms, relaxing wellness and dining options as well as lush open-air summer garden. Complimentary shuttle service to and from comfortable business halls. It is situated near the Sofia International Airport, just within 7 minute administrative and cultural center of Sofia. drive. Enjoy the central city landmarks by taking the Metro whichHOTEL is situated just front of the hotel. Within 2 minute car ride can easily reach the city les fleurs concert & sport venue Arena Armeec Hall, several shopping malls and main countryside highways.

21, Vitosha Blvd. h 13 map C4 & 02 810 08 00 Public transport: fax: 02 810 08 01 Tm-1,7 Room rates: EURO 130-250 6, Stara Planina Str. www.lesfleurshotel.com phone +359 2 915 15 00 6, Stara Planinacell Str. +359 885 650 665 h 11 map E2 Situated in the heart of Sofia’s main shopping, www.sofiacityhotel.com business and historical attractions. The hotel fea- & 02 915 15 rese00 rvations@sofiacit yhotel.com Public transport: fax: 02 986 20 00Enjoy your stay ! Tm-20,22, tures exquisite decor, intuitive service and an [email protected] Metro extraordinary blend of luxury and convenience www.sofiacityhotel.com in style with its floral surroundings. Hotel offers Room rates: EURO 69-169 a floral setting of unmistakable grandeur, ideal First-class hotel right in the city centre, close for business or leisure. A panoramic lift leads to the Sofia Opera House. 61 air-conditioned rooms and suites, Internet access, lobby bar, to 31 room across 7 floors. For the culinary restaurant, 2 conference rooms, currency at heart, Le Bouquet Restaurant offers delicious exchange office, sauna, massage center, hair- food,great stakes and has a special wine selection. dresser, laundry, dry-cleaning and summer garden.

106, Vitosha Blvd. h 14 map 27, Vasil Levski Blvd. h 17 map C5 B5 & 02 930 52 00 Public transport: & 02 805 81 81 Public transport: fax: 02 930 53 00 B-94, Tb-9,1, 2, 5, 8 fax: 02 805 87 8 Tm-1,7 [email protected] GPS: N 42.696895, Reservations: & 02 805 88 88 www.hotel-downtown.net E 23.319111 e-mail: [email protected] offers a perfect setting for business and leisure. www.centralparkhotel.bg 59 air-conditioned, non-smoking guest rooms, Room rates: EURO 150-220 including 12 suites, all being a harmonious blend of A new hotel in the heart of the city, close at hand the cozy comfort of a home and luxurious amenities to the National Palace of Culture and the finest of a hotel. Free Internet; Meeting facilities up to 60 shopping area of Sofia. 74 elegantly appointed persons; Restaurant and lobby bar; Fitness, sauna, rooms (8 single, 60 double/twin, 6 DeLuxe) with solarium and massage for maximum guest comfort. free high speed internet access. 3 Panorama Accommodation 29 suites with splendid view on Vitosha mountain a unique combination of high-quality service and the central city square. 2 non-smoking and comfort. LEGENDS hotel features 43 double floors available. 2 conference halls with 40 and rooms & single rooms and 4 apartments. The 70 seats, Business centre, Restaurant, Lobby bar. spacious and bright rooms have large and cozy beds, mini-bar, TV set with satellite programs, telephone, WIFI internet, air-condition with indi- vidual adjustment, bathroom with a bath-tube, 3 pairs of blackout drapes, 8 rooms have balconies. The restaurant, the lobby bar and the two confer- ence halls are all with WIFI internet. The restaurant is with capacity up to 120 people - your place for official lunch or dinner, wedding celebrations and other events. The conference halls are with 20, Knyaginya Maria Luiza Blvd. h 16 map C2 maximum capacity up to 100 people, with natural & 02 980 78 95 Public transport: daylight, coffee breaks space, balcony. fax: 02 980 78 94 Tm-20, 22; Metro e-mail: [email protected] room rates: from EURO 55-70 Surrounded by history and culture, this cen- ter city hotel exceeds the expectations of both business and leisure travelers. Located in the heart of downtown Sofia, Gloria Palace Hotel is connected to the vibrant shopping, sports and 29, Knyaginya Maria Luiza Blvd. h 18 map C2 attractions of the Bulgarian capital. The hotel is only steps away from the main administrative, & 02 980 55 77 Public transport: financial and commercial sites of the capital. fax: 02 980 33 55 Metro; Tm-20,22 The hotel features 30 rooms.All rooms have e-mail: [email protected] air condition with individually controlled www.marialuisa-bg.com temperature,satellite tv and wi-fi connection. Room rates: EURO 75-135 Conference facilities seating from 5 to 70, private The Maria Luisa hotel occupies an exquisite parking. building dating back to the turn of the last century and considered one of the national cultural monuments. It is situated in the very heart of Sofia in close proximity to significant business and administrative centers, Ministries and Central shop markets. 15 rooms, 5 suites, restaurant, lobby bar, business centre, parking. All rooms are beautifully appointed, with luxury 76B, James Bouchier Bvld. h 2 map D3 in-suite bathrooms, cable TV, audio equipment, & +359 2 806 55 55 Public transport: direct telephone connection, internet access. Fax: +359 2 806 55 00 Metro e-mail: [email protected] www.hillhotel-sofia.com Single rooms - 14, Double - 34 Room rates: EURO 110 -160 BB Hill Hotel Sofia is a modern 4-star business hotel, located near the center and with easily access 64, Tsarigradsko shose Blvd. h 19 map back to the airport, railway and subway station. The & +359 2 42 74 900 Public transport: hotel is situated near important state and financial fax: +359 2 875 70 00 Metro, B76, 84, 213 institutions and the commercial area of the city. E: [email protected] www.metropolitanhotelsofia.com Room rates: EURO 108-176 Rooms: Single - 31, Double - 141, Suits - 11, Corner Studios - 16, Panorama apartments - 2 Stylish urban hotel with unconventional design welcomes you at the eastern gate of the capital 56, Cherni Vrah Blvd. h 28 map back city – 3 km away from Sofia Airport, 4 km from & 02 961 79 30 Public Transport: Business Park Sofia and within a walking distance fax: 02 961 79 33 Metro; Tm – 10 B - 88, 120 from the International Expo Centre (IEC) and The LEGENDS hotel is situated in Lozenets district, 1.5 Mall shopping centre. Discreet and thoughtful ser- km away from the city center, while the closest vice, feel-at-home sensation and varied entertain- metro station is 300 m away. The hotel offers ment make your stay a memorable experience. 30 Accommodation

Novotel Sofia 5, Knyaz Al. Dondukov Blvd. h 24 map D3 & 02 402 71 00, 02 402 71 12 Public transport: 115N Tsarigradsko Shosse Blvd. h 20 map fax: 02 402 71 09 Tm-20, 22 back www.artehotelbg.com & /Fax +359 290 43 000 Public transport: Room rates: Euro 110-130 www.novotel.com Metro; B-84, 204, 604 Just around the corner of the Presidency and the e-mail: [email protected] Ministry Council buildings. The guests live together Novotel Sofia is ideally located in one of the most with Bulgarian art & world’s classical music mas- important business districts of Sofia and is only terpieces. The chamber-size restaurant with 50 10 min from the historical city center and the seats provides sophisticated Italian food and artistic airport. This new 4-star hotel is adjacent to The atmosphere. Mall, Sofia’s biggest shopping and entertainment center. Either you come for business, for a meet- ing or with your family, you will be fascinated by the modern atmosphere and functionality of its design. WIFI is free of charge in all hotel spaces. Take advantage of the restaurant and the bar or relax in our fitness where massages are also avail- able. Parking is free for all hotel guests. 108, Besarabia Str. h 25 map back & 02 945 50 80 Public transport: fax: 02 945 59 55 Tb-1 cell: +359 899 99 27 71, +359 899 99 27 37 e-mail: [email protected] www.hotel-astra.bg The complex is located in a tranquil but a commu- nicative area, in close proximity to Vladimir Vazov Ramada Hotel Blvd. and the main roads to Burgas and Varna. The complex has a modern equipped conference hall with capacity of 50 people, designed for the 131, Kn. Maria Luiza Blvd. h 22 map C0 organization of conferences and special events. & 02 933 88 88 Public transport: Astra Hotel offers to its guests 50 rooms fax: 02 933 87 77 B-60,78,213,305,404 Room rates: EURO 55-90 http://www.ramada.com/ Metro; Tm-3,9,18 The price includes breakfast, VAT, insurance rates: EURO 93-114 and tourist fee. The restaurant is the preferred Ramada Sofia is a fantastic 4-star hotel which setting for holding weddings, banquets, business satisfies both business and leisure traveller’s cocktail-parties, private celebrations and parties. needs enjoying favorable location within walking distance to tourist sights, administrative and com- mercial area of the capital city, near the Central Railway, International Bus Station and Subway Station. BULGARIA’S 2009 BEST CONVENTION HOTEL boasts 600 comfortable rooms, 150 of them are under renovation and 11 spacious suits 409, Tsar Boris III Blvd. h 46 map back were fully renovated. Facilities include air-condi- Knyazhevo District Public transport: tioning, a minibar, satellite TV and complimentary & 02 957 15 09, fax: 02 857 061 B-58, 59 Wi-Fi internet access. Every effort has been made cell: 0888 81 89 38, www.hotelamfora.dir.bg to ensure that guests feel right at home. Room rates: EURO 20 (Suites: EURO 70) Ramada Sofia won a prize for being the best con- 14 rooms and 3 suites. The Amphora family hotel vention hotel in the area, making it a great choice offers you the opportunity to combine your busi- for those in Sofia for business as well as leisure; ness engagements in the Bulgarian capital with a nice rest on the slopes of the Vitosha mountain. 10 modern multifunctional conference halls acco- The hotel is situated on the main road from Sofia modation from 10 to 800 people. You can also to the towns of Knyazhevo and Vladaya and is indulge yourself with some of the exceptional spa only 5 min. on foot from the public transportation. treatments. At the hotel a guarded parking lot is also available. Accommodation 31

Boomerang Hotel Meg-Lozenetz BMRG Sofia reservation dep. Beli Brezi Distr., block 16 (Bulgaria Blvd.) cell: +359 877 445 244 &+359 2 9582864 fax: +359 2 9582563 84, Krum Popov Str. [email protected] & 02 965 19 70 h 29 map C7 boomerang-hotel.eu fax: 02 965 19 71 Public transport: Boomerang Hotel is set on a quiet side street right off & 02 963 35 23 (restaurant) Tm-6,9; B-94 Bulgaria Boulevard, within 3 km from the city centre and e-mail: [email protected] offers views to Vitosha Mountains. Easy connections www.meg-lozenetz.com to the centre are offered from the nearby bus and tram Room rates: EURO 75-150 stop, just 100 metres away. Each of the air-conditioned It is in the close proximity to the National Palace of rooms at Boomerang Hotel Sofia has wooden floor and Culture and to the shopping area of the “Vitosha” a TV with cable channels. The private bathrooms are equipped with a shower and free toiletries. .There is a boulevard, just 15 minutes by car from Sofia Airport. bar in the Boomerang’s lobby area, decorated with blue The hotel has 17 luxury furnished double and triple seats and wooden tables. Freshly prepared dishes from rooms. Rooms offer internet connection, AC, mini the nearby restaurants can be delivered to your room. bar, IDD phone, TV, own heating, room Wide choice of shopping opportunities, restaurants and service. Restaurant, international cuisine, newly cafes is available at Mall Bulgaria, a 15-minutes walk from the property. Sofia's South Park is a 10-minute opened lobby bar with special menu, parking. walk away. Airport shuttle services are offered upon request and at a surcharge.

Casa Boyana Boutique Hotel Hotel Restaurant Montecito Phone: +359 2 973 6246 Cell: +359 88 800 4820 23, Ivanitsa Dantchev Str. h 16 map back [email protected] Boyana District Public transport: www.hotelmontecito.bg & 02 805 08 00 B-63, 64, 107 Hotel Montecito is situated on the main boulevard, fax: 02 805 08 05 leading to the city center, close to Sofia Airport, Sofia e-mail: [email protected] Business Center and International Expo Center. The www.casaboyana.com hotel features 101 well-appointed guestrooms, main Room rates: EURO 75-175 restaurant, resembling a small palace, cozy summer The new hotel is nestled in the most peaceful airy garden, outdoor swimming pool and large parking. residential area of the Sofia – Boyana, just steps away Montecito Hall is the newest value in Sofia, luxury from the Boyana Church, National History Museum, designed in style of The Palace of Versailles, perfect Best Western Premier Thracia Hotel 10 min. from the for special events. Montecito kids is huge and attrac- city center and 20 min. drive from the Sofia International tive party center, offers professional animation and Airport. 14 luxury rooms and 2 elegant suites with services. Jacuzzi, splendid city or mountain view.Restaurant, BBQ Garden, Lobby Bar, Sport Club – fitness, sauna, massages, free outdoor parking lot, full internet access, Business Hall.

16, Neofit Rilski Str. h 30 map B4 & 02 952 30 58, 02 953 01 10 Public transport: Boyana District, 5, Sborishte Square fax: 02 951 60 91 Tb-1, 2, 5, 8 &/fax: 02 959 05 29 h 44 map back & 02 851 19 15 – restaurant www.villa-boyana.com Public transport: e-mail: [email protected] e-mail: [email protected] B-107, 64 Room rates: EURO 40-50 Room rates: EURO 35-105 Located in the middle of Boyana village, a few 16 Suites, 3 Single and 4 Double rooms. minutes from “National History Museum”, a few All rooms offer free of charge Internet accesses, meters away from the world famous “Boyana cable T.V., direct telephone line, kitchenette (coffee, Church” and only ten minutes by car from the tea making facilities), room service, air-conditioning, downtown of Sofia. Comfortable well-appointed bedrooms. Special welcomes by request. own heating. BBQ restaurant-garden with authentic bulgarian cuisine.

32 Accommodation

Hotel Rila Sofia 4, Verila Str. h 35 map B5 6, Kaloyan Str. h 31 map C3 & 02 952 08 30 Public transport: &/fax: 02 951 57 60 Tm-6; Tb-1, 2, 5, 8, 9 & + 359 2 93 79 100 Public transport: cell: 0886 51 35 82 Fax: + 359 2 988 13 70 Tm-10, 12, 18, 20, 22 e-mail: [email protected] Cell: + 359 895 490 447 Metro www.hotelthehouse.com E-mail: [email protected] Rooms rates: EURO 31-43 Located in the very heart of Sofia next to the National Palace Room rates: EURO 34 – 65 of Culture. All rooms are designed according to European The Rila Hotel is located in the very centre of Sofia standards - air-conditioning, separate bath-room, cable close to the Presidency, the Council of Ministers, TV, Wi-Fi, refrigerator.Equipped with telephone, air-con- the Court House, the Bulgarian National Bank, Ivan ditioning, cable TV, central heating, free internet access. Vazov National Theatre, the National Art Gallery and rooms, wireless internet, cable TV, air-conditioning. the city garden. The guests of the hotel enjoy the convenience of its closeness to the main adminis- trative, financial and trade institutions, provided at competitive prices.

easyHotel Sofia - LOW COST

108, Aldomirovska Str. h 36 map back Slavyanska Beseda Hotel /Todor Alexandrov Blvd./ Public transport: & 02 920 16 54 Metro, Tm 3, 8,10 fax: 02 822 82 15 3, Slavyanska Str. h 33 map D4 e-mail: [email protected] & 02 935 98 35, 02 935 98 33 Public transport: www.easyhotel-sofia.bg fax: +359 2 935 98 32, 981 25 23 Tb-9, Tm-12,18 www.easyhotel.com cell: +359 885 02 02 21 Bus-84, 284 Room rates: EURO 19 - 34 EUR e-mail: [email protected] Metro easyHotel Sofia is part of the British hotel chain easyHotel. www.slavyanska.com co, which is unique for offering modern facilities and Slavyanska Beseda Hotel offers a fantastic location and an ideal accommodation for both business and leisure travel- impeccable service at unusually low rates. Situated on ers looking for budget and affordable lodging but who will the corner of Aldomirovska Street and the main Todor not sacrifice balanced quality and fair service. Nested in Alexandrov Boulevard, the brand new hotel is on just the heart of the financial, business and government city 5 minutes walk from the beating heart of central Sofia. quarters. Comfortable and spacious rooms. All rooms All the 57 rooms are minimized in size however each is have street view and some balcony. 92 rooms distributed equipped with private bathroom, double bed, TV and Wi-Fi in 5 floors and serviced by one elevator. Some rooms have access, air-conditioning. The earlier you book, the less experienced significant upgrades and renovations but, in all you pay. Check in – 2 pm; Check out – 11 am. cases, rooms are in proper and correct working condition. Check best rates and book at www.easyhotel.com

29, Hristo Belchev Str. h 34 map C4 & + 359 2 4811400 Public transport: fax: + 359 2 4811401 Tb-1, 2, 5, 8, 9 12, Dragovitsa Str. h 37 map back [email protected] & 02 944 89 52 Public transport: www.sofiaplacehotel.com fax: 02 943 34 71 B-11,305,413,72 Room rates: EURO 50 – 90 e-mail: [email protected] B- 404; Tm-20,22 Located in the heart of the city, near the major business and shopping centres as well as cultural www.madridbg.com monuments Sofia Place Hotel offers 20 modern Cosy and quiet family hotel, situated close to the designed rooms equipped with telephone, mini bar, city center and Poduyane railway station. 14 rooms air-condition, Wi Fi, cable TV and central heating. (2 single, 10 double, 2 double deluxe) and a suite. But our best quality is the staff! Personal Equipped with telephone, air-conditioning, cable TV, attention to every guest is our “speciality”! central heating, free internet access. Accommodation 33

Pop Bogomil

5, Pop Bogomil Str. h 38 map D1 & 02 983 11 65 Public transport: fax: 02 983 70 65 Tb-9, 6, 7; B-53, 309 cell: 0886 953 582 e-mail: [email protected] bl. 531, Anna Ahmatova Str., h Room rates: EURO 30-35 49 map back Mladost 1A Distr. Public transport: Hostels fax /& +359 2 974 41 60 Metro cell: +359 2 887 70 55 30 Be My Guest Hostel B-213,88,76, 305 13, Ivan Vazov Str. h 44 map D4 e-mail: [email protected] & 02 989 50 92, 02 980 21 42 Public transport: www.noshtuvkisofia.com fax: 02 989 00 92 Tb-9, 1, 2, 5, 8 Are you looking for a good accommodation during cell: 0889 979 749 Tm-12, 18 your stay in Sofia? The information for our lodging e-mail: [email protected] www.bemyguesthostel.com conditions shall be useful for you: double rooms Room rates: EURO 10-15 and apartments in a new building, with guaranteed Shared and private rooms ensuite. Located just behind the comfort and coziness – situated in the south-east “Ivan Vazov“National Theater. Easily accessible from the part of Sofia, Mladost 1A, 5,5 km. from the Sofia airport by bus number 84 or taxi, and from central bus and airport. railway station by tram number 18 and 12. If you are look- ing for simple, comfortable and clean accommodation, then this hostel is the place for you. Ognian Apartments Apartment Rentals Sleeping accommodations 38, Opalchenska Str. h 40 map back cell: +359 896 695 067 Public transport: & +359 2 832 73 30 Metro; Tb-1, 5 [email protected] Tm-20,22 www.ognian-nikolov.com 6 apartments, located in the central part of Sofia, 4, Golo Bardo Str. h 40 map B9 near of Sofia. All apartments are in the same building, located opposite the lovely park, Lozenets Distr. Public transport: very close to the subway station “Opalchenska”. & 02 960 28 88 Metro; Tm-9 The apartments can accommodate up to 4 per- fax: 02 960 28 37 sons. They are supplied with cable TV, Wi-Fi, and e-mail: [email protected] all modern conveniences. Good transport connec- Rates: EURO 100-200 tions to all parts of the city. Located in the fashionable neighborhood of Lozenets, the complex is only 2 km away from the ideal center of Sofia. Furnishing – luxury category, Internet access, air-conditioning, cable TV with 60 programs, non stop security of the building, restaurant (catering), medical services (by order) VIP Apartments Sofia Brand new, located in the city center – close 28, Neofit Rilski Str. h 53 map B4 to the banks and administrative buildings of Office: +359 2 989 59 69 Public transport: the public institutions. It Brand new, located cell: +359 896 865 800/ 801 Tb 1,2 5,8,9 in the city center – close to the banks and www.vipapartsofia.com [email protected] administrative buildings of the public institu- VIP Apartments Sofia – book online fully furnished tions. It offers 14 apatments, all equipped with serviced apartments and get a 60-100sq.m. flat kitchens, direct telephone, Internet access, for the price of a hotel room. Excellent value for laundry, dry-cleaning, cable TV, air-condi- money, homely environment, free Wi-Fi, DVD, tioning, security guaranteed. Credit cards cable TV, A/C. Rila Monastery Shuttle, tours and accepted. transfers provided. 34 Accommodation

Your complimentary copy of the Sofia City®Info Guide is available from hotel rooms, hotel receptions and other public areas at the following top-class Hotels & Services Apartments:

HOTELS Central Park Hotel Legends Hotel êêêêê Downtown Hotel Meg-Lozenetz Hotel Gloria Palace Niky Hotel Arena di Serdika Hill Hotel Rila Hotel Balkan Hotel Sofia Maria Luisa Hotel Sofia Place Hotel Grand Hotel Sofia Metropolitan Hotel Sofia Plaza Hotel Hilton Hotel Novotel Sofia Hotel Slavyanska Beseda Hotel Holiday Inn Sofia Hotel Ramada Hotel Kempinski Hotel Zografski Triada Hotel Radisson BLU êêê êê êêêê Amfora Hotel The House Hotel Best Western Hotel Expo Arte Hotel Astra Hotel ê Best Western City Hotel Plus easyHotel Boomerang Boutique Hotel Crystal Palace Madrid Hotel Casa Boyana Boutique Hotel Les Fleurs Pop Bogomil Hotel Hotel Villa Boyana Montecito Hotel&Restaurant

APARTMENT RENTALS SUBSCRIPTION OTHERS & HOSTELS DIPLOMATIC MISSIONS: Airport Sofia - Terminals 1, 2 Apartment House Sofia Austria Malta Airline Companies Be My Guest Hostel Canada Netherlands Business Centres VIP Apartments USA Car Hire Companies Central Bus Station COMMERCIAL AND ECONOMIC SECTION Cultural Institutes OF THE EMBASSY OF THE REPUBLIC OF BULGARIA IN: Inter Expo Center Information Center Sofia FRANCE, GERMANY, GREECE, KAZAKHSTAN, MONTENEGRO, Galleries MACEDONIA, ROMANIA, SERBIA, SLOVAK REPUBLIC, Real Estate Agencies SLOVENIA, THE NETHERLANDS, UK Top Restaurants and Bars Travel Agencies

VIP AIRPORT SOFIA & 02 980 85 01 www.cityinfoguide.net Accommodation 35

Every Saturday, at top places, in top cities: Free, organized running for everyone! The pleasure - to run for pleasure! Anyone can do it!

What is it: a 5 km, free but organized run Who is it for: It is suitable for every enthusiast without limitations in gender and age (including people with disabilities, parents pushing a pram and dogs on a leash) When: Weekly - every Saturday at 9:00 am (Winter 10:00 am) Where: South Park, Sofia, Sea Garden, Varna and Greben Kanal, Plovdiv How: After a single registration on our website, read here how to register What do I get: Personal statistic, comparison and distribution of information of your individual results, such as your finishing time and place, as well as personal awards. What else: Many individual and overall statistics data, charts based on the accomplished results, rankings and photos of you running on the track. How much does it cost: It is free of charge We believe that the distance of 5km is suitable for a wide range of people, and it is a great challenge for all those deciding to run for the first time in their life! 5 km is a universal discipline of endurance and complex load. It is toning and keeps you in a good mood. It’s neither too much nor too little - 5 km a week is good for each of us.

cityinfoguide.net 36 bars & restaurants

Please note: the price guide is an approximate dinner cost s - up to 25 lv per person; ss - up to 40 lv per person sss - over 40 lv per person

Bar & Dining Beerhouse Club of Architect ss 11, Krakra Str. (map F4) Open: 12.00-24.00 cell: 0888 880 979 Offers great variety of European cuisine: interest salad, dishes, desserts & rich list of wine. Die alte Lampe ss Summer & winter garden: 110 seats 2, Kotel Str. (map A8) Credit cards: accepted & 02 964 03 86, cell: 0885 63 53 23 Open: 11.00-24.00 www.fenerite.com All credit cards accepted.

Niky Beerhouse s 16, Neofit Rilski Str. (map B4) & 02 851 19 15 open: 12.00-24.00 www.happy.bg A real green paradise in the center of Sofia. A www.dostavka.happy.bg great variety of Bulgarian cuisine, wines and draft 0700 19 000 beers. Perfect place for any occasion.

145, G. S. Rakovski Str. (map D4) s cell: 0888 181 071 Lozenets Distr. 4, Sveta Nedelya Sq. (map C3) 38 a, Cherni Vrah Blvd. cell: 0888 181 070 02 868 83 78 Mladost 3 Distr., 0888 297 457 Complex Asko Denitsa (map back) 3, Verila Str. cell: 0888 181 072 / Vitosha Blvd. opposite NDK/ 101, Al. Stamboliyski Blvd., , 02 988 82 58 0888 297 454 floor 3 (map A2) cell: 0886 666 029 3, Vasil Levski Blvd. 02 988 20 24 53,Todor Kableshkov Blvd. (map back) 0888 297 454 cell: 0884 990 914 49 B, Bulgaria Blvd. 36, Bogatitsa Str. (map B9) 22, Yerosalim Blvd. cell: 0888 181 068 12-14, P.Slaveykov Blvd. Mladost District cell: 0884 990 919 Home delivery: 6, Jawaharlal Nehru Blvd. 0700 44 777 cell: 0884 805050 Only with us pizzas from (map back) original Italian receipes. 100, Cherni vrah Blvd. cell: 0882 999 004 Narodno sabranie Sq., Radisson Hotel cell: 0882 999 012 bars & restaurants 37 38 bars & restaurants Bulgarian

Pod Lipite ss /Under the Linden-Trees/ Lozenets Distr. (map E7) NDK - PRONO ss 1, Str. 1, Bulgaria Blvd. (map B6) & 02 866 50 53 Open every day: 12.00 - 00.00 02 866 50 59 & +359 2 9 630 308 Open: 12.00-01.00 cell: +359 885 630 308 www.podlipitebg.com e-mail: [email protected] Should you wish to combine an all-in-one tasting www.chevermeto-bg.com of typical Bulgarian dishes and sensing the artistic Restaurant Chevermeto combines authentic spirit of Old Sofia, book a table at this place. An atmosphere, dishes prepared according to old authentic folklore receipts and a folklore show. programme every evening. Every evening a whole lamb is roasted on fire as “cheverme”, where the name of the restaurant comes from. If you want to try all these take your friends and bring them to Chevermeto, the way it is done by ministers, presidents, royalties and celebrities.

Pri Yafata 29, Knyaz Dondukov Blvd. & +359 2 9800250 www.facebook.com/PriYafata Following a long tradition of tavern ownership and ss management at the beautiful town of Bansko the heirs of the tavern owner nicknamed Yafata opened 21, Tsar Osvoboditel Blvd. (map F4) their first restaurant in Sofia fifteen years ago. The & 02 944 39 15 establishment is located in a beautiful old house at cell: 0888 609 602 the city centre just opposite the National Opera. The Open: 11.30 - 24.00 cuisine is delightful, the service is impeccable and you may also combine a visit to the restaurant with The fairly small, but emblematic restaurant has a walk to some of the biggest historical landmarks been in that exact spot for 18 years now. An in Sofia. And a small tip-try some of the typical extensive menu of hearty food to suit all tastes. Bulgarian barbecue dishes at “Pri Yafata”. They are really great.

Fish Restaurants

40, Pozitano Str.(map B3) s & 02 471 65 77 cell: 0894 312 131 100, James Bourchier Blvd.(map C8) s s Open: 10.00-02.00 (Kempinski Hotel Zografski Sofia) Tavern in the heart of Sofia, where you can enjoy cell: 0882 999 001 traditional Bulgarian dishes to indulge in bit atmo- www.captaincook.bg sphere of the background of our folk music. Here Open:11.00-24.00 An unique approach to the modern fish-orien- you will found comfort, excellent menu and first tated cuisine. class service. bars & restaurants 39 40 bars & restaurants

Japanese

Maslinata THE ORIGINAL GREEK RESTAURANT IN SOFIA 31 Rezbarska Str. (map G2) ss phone: 02 400 55 44 cell: 0879 168 608 ss www.restaurantmaslinata.com The Mall, 115, Tsarigradsko Shose Blvd. For all of you who love the scent of (map back) Mediterranean cuisine restaurant “Maslinata”/The cell: 0882 999 013 Olive/ hospitably opened doors every day to offer 100, James Bourchier Blvd.(map C8) you an unforgettable culinary experience. Kempinski Hotel Zografski Sofia cell: 0884 80 40 40 www.happysushi.bg Italian www.sushi.happy.bg, 0700 19190 International RESTAURANT AQUARIUM

Aquarium s La Vitta e Bella ss 17, Denkoglu Str. (map B3) 6, Stara Planina Str. (map E2, Best Western Plus For reservations cell: 0882 484 599 City Hotel Sofia) www.restorantaquarium.com Aquarium Restaurant is designed in an unusual and & 02 989 70 07 not very typical for Sofia, style, with very interesting Open:12.00-23.00 interior solutions. La Vita è Bella is the restaurant of the capital Best This unique design is combined with diverse choice Western Plus City Hotel. The interior is in the spirit of radiant, relaxed and cozy Italian atmosphere and of foods from the Mediterranean and European in the warm season the garden outside is like a cuisine. Dishes are prepared from high quality fresh small Italian city oasis in old Sofia. Great food, great products, following the rules of most elaborate wines and hearty welcoming – this is what clients culinary traditions. here receive.

Indian / Nepal

Gurkha ss Lozenets Distr. BAMBUCCA BAR & RESTAURANT 56, Tsvetna Gradina Str. (map B8) 17, Knyaz Al.Dondukov Blvd. ss & 02 865 02 16 &: 02/ 950-62-13; cell: 0877 70 45 56 cell 0884 939 100 Open: 10.00 - 22.00 Open: Every day 11:00-24:00 Location: In the heart of the town, on one of the www.gurkhabg.com busiest central boulevards. We offer you the Indian and Nepali cuisine. Dishes from all over Asia. best of the Bulgarian traditional cuisine as well Nice and cozy place. Easy to find, 2 minutes from as some masterpieces of the fusion cuisine. The NDK, with a range of hotels around - Kempinski, high quality of our food and drinks is combined Hilton, Hemus, Lozenets, Apartment House Lozenets, with excellent service, reasonable prices and California, 7 Hills, Greenville... Parking. Wi-Fi zone. relaxing atmosphere. Delivery 11.30-22.00 Once you visit us you’ll know that Bambucca is your place in Sofia. bars & restaurants 41 42 bars & restaurants

Reastaurant Vodenitzata Dragalevtsi District (map back) ss ss Este - Taste the Difference! & 02 967 10 58, fax: 02 967 50 07 3A, Nikolay Haytov Str. (map H9) Open: 12.00-24.00 cell: +359886 700 269, www.vodenitzata.com [email protected] One of the top ranked restaurants due to its mag- www.este-restaurant.com nificent scenery. During the winter months 2 fire- places illuminate the stone walls. The impression of the programme show can be multiplied by tasting traditional Bulgarian specialities and splash them with the excellent rakia and wine. Reservations by all means. The House ss 4, Verila Str. (map B5) Turkish & 02 952 08 30, 02 951 57 60 cell: 0888 800 376 Open: 12.00-24.00 No matter which of the main dining areas you sit in at this friendly and comfy house, you’ll receive amiable service and variety of tasty treats.

Korean Hurem Sultan Restaurant Borovo Distr.8,Razgrad Str. (map back) ss Open:12.00-24.00 For reservations: 0879976676 (02) 8583690 The genuine Turkish restaurant Hurrem Sultan (Hurrem Sultan) is named after the most pow- s erful woman in the history of Turkey. The Restaurant YUN restaurant is tucked away in a quiet location Izgrev Distr., 34, Elemag Str. (map G9) in Borovo quarter - between Bulgaria Blvd. and & 02 963 03 65 Gotse Delchev Blvd. The menu offers traditional Open: Every day 12.00-11.00 Turkish cuisine prepared by master chefs from Karaoke with Korean, Japanese and English music. Istanbul. There are several lounges, located Reservations after 6.00pm on 2 floors and outdoor (summer) and indoor (winter) gardens. The decor and atmosphere are from the end of the XIX century. The place is in Outskirts its own way romantic and the food is extremely tasty and with high quality.

Reasaturant Lebed 34, Yuri Venelin Str. (map E5) ss For reservations: & 02 989 12 12 83, Samokovsko Shose Str. (map back) ss Cell: 0896 79 49 62 & 02 992 11 11 www.tmturkishrestaurant.com Open: 12.00-24.00 T&M restaurant has been serving turkish tradi- tional food in a historical atmosphere at the center Situated on the very shore of the Pancharevo lake. of Sofia since 2000. 2 halls and splendid garden, whose Mediterranean We introduce delicious tastes of fabulous turkish style and natural beauty make the atmosphere cuisine with the best service without any compro- really romantic. Seafood delights, as well as a rich mise of our quality. We provide 100% customer satisfaction with our experienced staff and Turkish collection of selected beverage. hospitality. bars & restaurants 43 44 bars & restaurants

On the 1st of June the grand opening of the first themed amusement park in Bulgaria will be held. Happy Land Park offers the perfect oppor- tunity for a getaway from the stressed everyday routine. There you can feel the fabulous atmosphere of a whole different world of relaxation and entertainment. Happy Land Park is unique with its original architecture and design and also with its numerous themed sectors. Thus the park becomes preferred hot spot for relaxation and having a good time not only for kids and adolescents but also for adults. www.happy-land.eu Join us! 0894 50 32 39 0897 93 66 03 bars & restaurants 45

On the 1st of June the grand opening of the first themed amusement park in Bulgaria will be held. Happy Land Park offers the perfect oppor- tunity for a getaway from the stressed everyday routine. There you can feel the fabulous atmosphere of a whole different world of relaxation and entertainment. Happy Land Park is unique with its original architecture and design and also with its numerous themed sectors. Thus the park becomes preferred hot spot for relaxation and having a good time not only for kids and adolescents but also for adults. www.happy-land.eu Join us! 0894 50 32 39 0897 93 66 03 46 entertainment Sofia by night Sofia at night is the other mysterious yet no less attractive face of the capital city. Bulgar- ians like to party and get together for a drink at night, in a pleasant company. There are dozens of live-music ultra- modern clubs, neon-light discos, acoustic bars, and pubs that have mushroomed over the past few years, and draw the typical local audience – young, daring and extremely fashionable. There is no place in town, where the party starts before 10.30-11.00 pm, and it is not uncommon for the fun to carry on until the early hours after midnight. Almost all the cult clubs can be found in the city centre, or in the well-known students’ village/Studentski grad. The legal age requirement to gain ac- cess to the many bars and nightclubs in Sofia is 18 years of age and it’s sometimes quite rigidly enforced. Sofia’s clubbing dress code is fairly ca- sual, however in some of the higher-class night- JIM BEAM Club Students City time establishments you might come across a 3, Atanas Manchev Str. “face-control”. cell: 0899 700 600 At most discos and clubs, ladies enjoy special privileges, such as free entrance or a free drink on particular days of the week. From ethno or house party, through a jazz or piano night, to bowling or a reckless ca- sino-fiesta – the opportunities for relaxation and fun are endless. For your convenience we have selected the best seats for a good party! The night is yours!

Entertainments in Sofia don’t end with the sun going down and there is an energetic and enchanting feel about the many different night spot listed in this section. While present everywhere, bars and nightclubs are concentrated in the central part of the city which makes it easy to explore several places in one outing. entertainment 47 48 entertainment

bARS & cLUBS City grants you an entertainment that will blow Biad Club your mind away. The style range covers broad range of music-from commercial pop to Hip-Hop 16, General Y. V. Gurko Str. and R’n’B. A historical venue in the youngest dis- cell: +359 894 300 300 trict of the city-this is definitely your place. +359 894 300 340 www.biad.bg (map D4) Open: 22.30 - 06.00 Erotic barS Club BIAD is one of the oldest restaurants in Sofia, which keeps the memories of several generations. Today club Biad is an ultra modern club and the preferred place for entertainment of the citizens and guests of the city. Club BIAD organizes various events. The club also hosts various pop-folk singers and foreign artists for special appearances. 4, Vitosha Blvd. (map C3) & +359 2 981 36 63, +359 2 981 07 70 www.FetishSofia.com Candy Club Open every day: 9PM - 4AM 100, James Bourchier Blvd. (map C8) The only and unique FETISH club in Sofia. (Kempinski Hotel Zografski Sofia) Every night you can enjoy the company of 20 cell: 0884 706 060 highly attractive and hottest girls in most pleas- ant atmosphere. Do not hesitate and call us - we promise to bring all your fantasies to life! CRAZY NIGHT 33, Tsar Osvoboditel Blvd. (corner with San Stefano Str.) JIM BEAM Club Center 23.00 - 04.00, Mon - Sat Bar & Dinner (map C4) + 359 897 93 66 02 33, Vitosha Blvd. cell: +359 890 990 000 ESCORT SERVICES Top Bulgarian DJ’s will take care for your entertain- Enigma agency ment without compromise. The music program cov- 24, Vrabcha Str. ers broad style range-from mainstream and com- & 02 944 50 70, cell: 0898 845 571, mercial pop to Hip-Hop and R’n’B. And something 0887 800 184 else-a beautiful garden with total area of 100 m2 is Hight - CLASS - Girls to be opened in a month from now just outside the cell: 0887 670 366, 0876 398 552 club on Vitosha boulevard-the trendiest commercial www.hight-class-girls.com and pedestrian zone in Sofia Casinos Efbet Casino Sofia 4, Narodno Sabranie Square (Radisson Hotel BLU) cell. 0888 77 66 55 JIM BEAM Club Students City Princess Sofia 3, Atanas Manchev Str. (map Back) 131, Kn. Maria Luiza Blvd. (map C0) cell: 0899 700 600 (Sofia Ramada Hotel), & 02 933 88 88 The pioneer of the modern club life in Sofia wel- Viva Casino comes you again totally renovated, with state of the Sofia Hotel Balkan (map C3) art sound and light system. Jim Beam Club Students & 02 981 57 47, 02 986 35 01, cell: 0893 729 190 www.groupviva.com entertainment 49

Erotic bars

ES4,CORT Vitosha S Blvd.ERV ICE S (map C3) Enigma& +359 agency 2 981 36 63, +359 2 981 07 70 www.FetishStripClub.com 24, Vrabcha Str. &Open 02 944every 50 day: 70 9PM - 4AM cell:The 0898 only 845and 571,unique 0887 FETISH 800 club184 in Sofia. Every night you can enjoy the company of 20 Highthighly - attractive CLASS and - Girls hottest girls in most pleasant cell:atmosphere. 0887 670 366, 0876 398 552 www.hight-class-girls.comDo not hesitate and call us - we promise to bring all your fantasies to life! 50 entertainment

ways is happening something different. The menu selects several excellent coffees, among them is the 100% Arabica from the higher parts of Central America, and continues with a variety of molecular and classic cocktails whose recipes the owners managed to get out of the most famous bartenders in Italy. If you’re a wine 55, N.Rilski Str., fan, you will enjoy the fact that the bar offers a cell: 0876541641 wide selection of Bulgarian, French and ( mostly) [email protected], Italian wines. For the hungry ones - we recomend /barup.sofia you to try the sandwiches or the salads with prosciutto or salmon. Legèr also organizes the A bar, where the sun is always shining, the atmo- so-called “aperitif”, best known among residents sphere is cozy, the smile is always big, and the of Italy - with every drink after work (18 to 20 menu – it’s the most pleasing, diverse and deli- pm) you will receive compliments on the house. cious part of the bar. Bar Up is made with desire This is the favorite time zone for a lot of people, and idea to be like second home for anyone who which can be identified with the phrase “Dolce far likes individual service and enjoys artistic design. niente” (blissful inactivity). Here you can colour your day with a handcrafted cocktail made with fresh fruits, enjoy a delicious homemade cake with your cappuccino, drink a GAY SCENE chocolate milkshake made with Snickers, Kinder Bueno or Chocolate Cookies or eat fresh. You may also find interesting the decision to put their drinks in all kind of jars, bottles an some beautiful old-fashioned glasses. And the friendly attitude makes the atmosphere complete. ID Club 19 B, Karnigradska Str. (map B4) celll: 0898 200 000 www.facebook.com/groups/IDClub.SF/

23, Praga Blvd.(former Madara Bath) ID Club is the biggest and the most luxuri- For reservation: ous gay club not only in Sofia, but also in cell: 0889 66 29 22 the whole country. Recently the club marked Open: Mon. - Sat.: 12.00 - 01.00 the fifth year of its existence. ID Club is ideal A unique combination of authentic Bulgarian for hip, modern, open-minded people who cuisine and a true American music. A cozy are not bound by prejudice and hypocrisy corner for people with a taste ... Every night and love to party till dawn in a cozy, relaxed (except Sunday) - live performing. atmosphere with lots of hit music, sexy male dancers and elaborate drag shows. Shops

Strelbishte Distr. 13, Chervena Rosa Str. /corner125 Bar Legèr Nishava Str. / 34, Denkoglu Str. cell: 0897 87 47 94 [email protected] (corner of Vitosha Blvd.) Mon. - Fri.: 10.30 - 19.00, Sat. 10.30 - 17.00 cell: 0879-061-771 ; 0887-93-45-98 The Company store “Bulgarian Rose” - Karlovo -offers [email protected] facebook: bar Legèr producer prices.The oldest and most authentic manufac- Open: 10.00 - 01.00 turer of 100% natural rose oil rose water and cosmetic The newly opened bar in the heart of the capital products on that basis.National Bulgarian souvenirs, rose is one of the most attractive places and there al- brandy and honey of roses. entertainment 51

fASHON KENSOL STORE Over 25,000 appliances and accessories for home, Mall of Sofia,101, Al Stamboliyski Blvd. office and car KENSOL STORE - 96, Vitosha Blvd. • Free Delivery KENSOL STORE • Free parking Sky City Shopping Mall, 52, Kosta Lulchev Str. • Ability to purchase on credit KENSOL OUTLET - 1, Makedonia Square www.technopolis.bg National consumer phone 0700 12340 See map back: Mladost 4, 265, Okolovrastno Shose (opposite The Bells) & 02 921 11 11 Lulin 8, Tsaritsa Joanna (the metro station Lulin) MALLS & 02 921 00 92 Nadezhda, near overpass Nadezhda The Mall & 02 803 59 99 Serdika Mall - 48, Sitnyakovo Blvd., 1st floor 115, Tsarigradsko Shose Blvd. & 02 892 79 27 Situated on 66,000 square metres THE MALL is The Mall - 115, Tsarigradsko Shose Blvd., Ground the largest shopping centre in Bulgaria with 178 stores featuring international brands, a 9000 sq Floor meters Carrefour hypermarket, the ten screen Arena & 02 807 64 64 Cinema, various entertainment venues, a fitness - 69, Bulgaria Blvd. centre, restaurants and cafes. This combination & 02 903 59 59 of world famous brands, services and places of Paradise Center - 100, Cherni Vrah Blvd. Level 1 recreation and entertainment makes THE MALL an & 02 446 25 56 exciting place to shop. 52 CULTURE

Galleries

88, G. Rakovski Blvd. (across the street from the National Opera building) cell: +359 887 889 434 +359 878 846 562 www.imi-teteven.com 19, Tsar Asen Str. Mon - Sat: 09.00 - 19.00 [email protected] facebook.com/bayta.art cell: +359 888 720 610 Mon-Sat: 10.30 -19.30

Art shop-Gallery Mili Art 14, Hristo Botev Blvd. & 02/ 476 76 4, cell: 0877 22 00 80; 0876 00 24 04

Classica Gallery-Museum Nuance Gallery 32, Yuriy Venelin Str. (map E5) 42, Ivan Denkoglu Str. & 02 988 24 72 & +359 2 448 5854 [email protected] www.nuancegallery.bg www.classica.art.bg [email protected] Sun – Mon: 12.00 - 20.00 Tue – Sun: 11.00 – 19.00 Nuance Gallery is a newly opened art space in the heart of Sofia.

3, Lege Str. (map C3) 100, Cherni Vrah Blvd. - Paradise Center, Floor 1 cell: 0894 34 17 24 46, Gladston Str. cell: 0899 87 87 75 www.artgalleryeurope.eu e-mail: [email protected] [email protected] fasebook.com/spolukaart Mon – Sat: 11.00 - 19.00 Every day: 10.00 - 20.00 CULTURE 53 Palette Classica Gallery From 07th July to 30th August 2014 - permanent exhibition “Newly discovered old masters.” Opening hours in July and August, 2014 - from 16.00 to 21.00. For individual visits - call us - 02/988 24 72

Europe Gallery 5th July, 3 Lege Str. - exhibition “The Sea” featuring over 10 contemporary Bulgarian marine. At the end of July - August Gallery Europe 2, 100 Cherni Vrah, an exhibition - paintings by Dimitri Detchev. August - exhibition by Milena Bochukova - Classica Gallery paintings and sculpture.

Nuance Gallery For its Summer exhibition Nuance Gallery will show some selected pieces from its collection. The Gallery will be open the whole July and August months.

IMI BOUTIQUE SHOP ALL our household products are made of 100% eco- clean wool, span into yarn and weaved into: blankets, sweaters, ponchos, jakets, scarfs, hats, boutique clothes, ets. Custom furniture with color styling & designed by you. Nuance Gallery

Europe Gallery permanent exhibitionS Bayta Art shop Bayta Art Shop invites you to a charming meeting with talent and imagination of many Bulgarian authors. Here you will find hand-made items, jewelry, accessories, dolls and toys from fabric, dyed silk scarfs, paintings, bronze, ceramics and etc. We are Bayta Gallery located right downtown Sofia and we welcome you. You can find us in Foursquare. SPOLUKA Gallery is a space for the expression of Bulgarian artists. We offer paintings, original handmade ceramics, designer jewelry and more. Spoluka Gallery 54 CULTURE

Culture Centers - Programme

Goethe-Institut Budapesta-Str. 1 1000 Sofia, Bulgaria & +359 2 939 0100, 0101 fax +359 2 939 0199 mail: [email protected] www.goethe.de/sofia

Polish Institute in Sofia 12, Veslets Str. & +359 2 981 09 07 Fax +359 2 981 57 44 [email protected] Twitter: @PLISofia Web: www.institutpolski.org EXHIBITION FB: http://www.facebook. RUSE-TORUN. com/polski.institut.sofia PLACE OF THE MEETING: WARSAW. 23.06-15.09.2014 Polish institute, free entry The exhibition is organized as a result of the cooperation between the Torun representation of the Union of Polish Painters and the Bulgarian Cultural Institute in Warsaw. It contains paintings of 16 authors – 8 from each country and presents different artistic techniques and topics. CULTURE 55

Theatre National academy for theatre and film arts Krastyo Sarafov 108 A, G. S. Rakovski Str. & 02 9231 303 www.natfiz.bg www.facebook.com

National Music & Ballet Center - Sofia

100, Vasil Levski Blvd. & 02 943 19 79 www.musictheatre.bg

Theatre Bulgarian Army 98, Rakovski Str. & 02 987 23 03 www.tba.art.bg facebook.com/armytheatre

Satire Theatre Aleko Konstantinov 26, Stefan Karadzha Str. & 02 988 10 60 www.satirata.bg

Sofia Opera and Ballet

1, Vrabcha Str. & 02 987 13 66 www.operasofia.bg

Youth Theatre Nikolay Binev 8-10, Knyaz Dondukov & 02 939 40 59 02 988 17 53 www.mlt.bg

SFUMATO THEATRE 2, Dimitar Grekov Str. www.sfumato.info +359 29433890 56 CULTURE Museums

Archaelogical Museum 2, Saborna Str. Permanent and temporally exhibitions at: Prehistory (next to the Bulgarian Nat. Bank) Hall, Vault, Central Hall, Middle Ages Hall. The & 02 988 24 06 famous Vulchitrun gold treasure is among the most www.naim.bg precious exhibits in Bulgaria’s oldest museum. Open: Tue-Sun, 10.00-17.00 Admission: 10 leva

4, Cherni Vrah Blvd. Earth and Man National Museum & 02 865 66 39 Unique mineralogical museum keeping more than www.earthandman.org 20 000 samples collected all over the world. Open: Tue-Sat, 10.00-18.00 Admission: 2 leva

National Art Gallery 1, Knyaz Al. Batenberg Sq. The National Art Gallery is housed in the former & 02 980 00 93 Prince’s Palace at the Kniaz Alexander Battenberg www.nationalartgallerybg.org Square in the capital. Today it is in possession of Open: Tue-Sun, 10.00-18.00 the largest collection of pictorial art in the country. Admission: 6 leva Boyana, 16, Vitoshko Lale Str. National History Museum (Residence Boyana, Palace 1) Museum contents more than 650 000 exhibits and is & 02 955 42 80 one of the largest history museums on the Balkans. www.historymuseum.org Amazing recent Thracian gold discoveries. Open: Mon-Sun, 09.30 -18.00 Admission: 10 leva National historical-archaelogical church museum Museum contents more than 11 000 shrines and Square Sveta Nedelya historical monuments such as icons, prints, carvings, & 02 989 01 15 books, liturgical utensils, models of ancient churches, 02 988 39 50 photo albums temples and manuscripts of bishops Open: Mon-Sun and leaders, including Exarch Antim I, Exarch Joseph I, 09.00 - 17.00 Metr. Clement of Tarnovo, Neophyte Bozveli and etc. Sofia City Art Gallery 1, Gen. Y. V. Gurko Str. The gallery possesses some of the richest (Entr. from Kn. Al. Batenberg Str.) collections in Bulgaria: 8000 works of art by & 02 987 21 81, www.sghg.bg Bulgarian artists from the end of the 19th century Open: Tue-Sat 10.00-19.00 till present. Sun 11.00-18.00 Free Entrance

National Museum of Natural History 1, Tsar Osvoboditel Blvd. - BAS (near the Russian Church) The richest museum of natural history on the www.nmnhs.com Balkans. Over a million specimens of animals, & 02 987 41 95 plants and minerals. Open: Mon–Sun, 10.00-18.00 Admission: 4 leva

National Military - History Museum 92, Cherkovna Str. The richest Bulgarian state collections of weapons, uniforms, insignia, & 02 2 946 18 05 flags, military seals, photographs. mail: [email protected] www.militarymuseum.bg Open: Wed-Sun, 10.00-18.00 Museum of the Socialist Art Izgrev Distr. is the first institution in Bulgaria in order to collect, 7, Lachezar Stanchev Str. preserve and present examples of Bulgarian & 02 902 18 02 art created during the period 1944 - 1989, the www.nationalartgallerybg.org thematically related to the era of socialism. Open: 10.00-17.30

National Polytechnic Museum 66, Opalchenska Str. Permanent expositions: watches, safety lamps, surveying equipment, physical & 02 931 80 18 appliances, automobiles, communication Open: Mon-Fri, 09.00-17.00 equipment, communication equipment CULTURE 57

“Fairy house” is a unique design space where the family with children will see a musical, light show and meet fairy of over twenty-five classic tales. Go through the amazing experience for the whole family that combines at- traction and education.

Summer time - April till September / including / - 10.00 am to 20.00 pm Entrance fee - 3 lev Groups over 15 people - 10% dis- count.

For Information: 0882 435 828 www.familyfun-bg.com 58 Useful Numbers

Airline Companies Car Rentals

5, Angel Kanchev Str. (map C4) & 02 980 22 12 53, Nikola Vaptsarov (map back) Luggage and Flying Blue claims: & 02 439 02 22/ 23 www.alitalia.bg fax: 02 439 12 25 fax: 029 800 865 e-mail: [email protected] Ticketing desk at the airport: & 02 937 32 11 Sofia Airport: & 029 459 217

Mladost-1 25 Distr. & 02 402 04 00 Entrance B, Office 1 e-mail: [email protected] Near to The Mall on Tsarigradsko Shose Blvd. For sales and reservations: & 02 423 57 98 & 02 402 04 05, 02 402 04 06 cell: 0896 68 68 51 e-mail: [email protected] 0896 68 68 49 Internet reservation: 02 402 04 61 www.rotto-bg.com e-mail: [email protected] e-mail: [email protected] www.air.bg

Language for Foreigners

For reservations & ticketing: Office - 14, Tsar Osvoboditel Blvd. Landmark Centre Sofia, Office 01-14 Phone: 00 359 2 947 4006 / 00 359 2947 4007 Fax: 00 359 2 9804151 E-mail: [email protected] Working Hours: Weekdays: 09:00-17:30 ST. KLIMENT OHRIDSKI UNIVERSITY OF SOFIA Airport - Terminal 2 DEPARTMENT FOR LANGUAGE TEACHING 1, Bruksel Blvd. Departure Hall AND INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS (DLTIS) Phone: 00 359 2 9373121 27 Kosta Lulchev Street, 1111 SOFIA Fax: 00359 2 945 91 45 Tel. (+359 2) 8710 069, (+359 2) 971 71 62, Email: [email protected] Fax: (+ 359 2) 870 53 28 www.turkishairlines.com E-mail: [email protected] www.deo.uni-sofia.bg Bus Lines Bulgarian Language for Foreigners One-to-One/two Course Minimum 20 hrs * 19 lv Mini Group Course – 3 persons Minimum 20 hrs * 10 lv www.centralnaavtogara.bg INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF BULGARIAN LANGUAGE 138, Vasil Levski Blvd. (map E1) AND CULTURE &/fax: 02 945 39 39 100, Knyaginya Maria Luiza STANDARD COURSE Blvd. (map C0) 3 weeks (5-day week), Fee: 599 lv. & 028 133 100, 028 133 101 INTENSIVE COURSE www.etapgroup.com 2 week (6-day week), Fee: 549 lv. CENTRAL BUS STATION STANDARD TEST OF BULGARIAN AS A FOREIGN LAN- 100, Knyaginya Maria Luiza Blvd. (map C0) GUAGE & 0900 21 000 All the 5 CEFR/ALTE levels: www.centralnaavtogara.bg A2, B1, B2, C1 and C2 Fee per level: 369 lv. Useful Numbers 59

Diplomatic Missions ONE contacts TO ONE BULGARIAN phones additional information

Austria 4, Shipka Str. & 02 932 90 32 www.bmeia.gv.at/botschaft/sofia Canadian Honorary Consulate 7, Pozitano Str. & 02 969 97 10 e-mail: [email protected] Germany 25, Fr. Joliot-Curie Str. & 02 918 38 00 www.sofia.diplo.de Sovereign Order of Malta 92, V. Levski Blvd., fl.2 & 02 843 98 61 e-mail: [email protected] Netherlands 15, Oborishte Str. & 02 816 03 00 www.netherlandsembassy.bg United States of America 16, Kozyak Str. & 02 937 51 00 www.usembassy.bg

Medical Services Railway City Hospitals & Clinics Central Railway Station Knyaginya Maria Luiza Blvd. (map C0) 127 Okolovrasten pat str., 1407 Sofia & 02 931 11 11, 02 932 33 33 Phone: +359 2 960 4949 www.bdz.bg cityhospitals.bg Reception Phone: 0700 33 900 Translations

ISO 9001:2000 IMC Translation and Legalization Agency International Medical Center (Department “Consul’s Relationships” at the Family Medicine & Pediatrics; Physiotherapist; Bulgarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ultrasound, Gynecology, Laboratory; Adults & Children contract 997/2005 authorizes the agency) Dental Care; English, French and Russian Speaking 68, V. Levski Blvd. (map D5) Doctors & Staff. Credit cards accepted. & 02 980 60 52 28, N. V. Gogol Str. (map G4) fax: 02 980 01 34 e-mail: [email protected] e-mail: [email protected] www.imc-sofia.com www.translationservicebg.com For appointments and house calls: & 02 944 93 26, 02 944 93 17 (8.30-20.00 h) Fides Interconsult Ltd. or 0886 532 551 (24 h) ISO 9001:2008 Lloyd’s Register Quality Assurance Translation, document legalization 4, Sv. Kliment Ohridski Str. (map F4) (next to SU “Kliment Ohridski”) & /fax: 02 946 13 92 02 943 86 65 cell: 0887 792 282 e-mail: [email protected] www.fides.bg MHATEM “N.I.Pirogov” Emergency : 02/ 915 44 11 Lozenets District 1606 Sofia, 21, Totleben Blvd 27, Tsvetna gradina Str. diagnostics, therapy, education and train- (map C8) ing, scientific research, methodology, emergent medicine. 0888 41 92 88 & 02 963 00 66 60 index

A Alitalia...... 66 Apartment House Sofia...... 35 Arena di Serdica ...... 28 Arte.doc Translation agency...... 67 Arte Hotel...... 32 Aquarium Restaurant...... 44 Astra Hotel...... 32 B Balkan Hotel...... 29 Be My Guest Hostel...... 34 Best Western City Hotel...... 30 Best Western Hotel Expo...... 30 Biad ...... 50 Boats Restaurant...... 48 Boutque hotel Crystal Palace...... 30 Use Boutique hotel Les Fleurs...... 30 Block 531...... 35 Bulgary Restaurant...... 40 Maraia...... 38 Bulgaria Air...... 66 our Maria Luisa Hotel...... 31 Bulgarian Rose ...... 52 Meg-Lozenetz Hotel...... 33 Bulgarimmo...... 33 Metropoliten...... 31 C index! Mr. Pizza...... 44 Candy Club...... 50 N Captain Cook Restaurant ...... 42 Niky Beerhouse...... 38 Casa Boayna...... 33 Niky Hotel...... 33 Casinos...... 50 Novotel Sofia...... 31 Central Park Hotel...... 30 O Chevermeto...... 40 Ognian Apartments...... 33 Club of Architect ...... 38 One to One...... 66 D Outskirts Hotels...... 36 Die Alte Lampe Restaurant...... 38 Outskirts Restaurants...... 46 Diplomatic missions...... 67 P Downtown Hotel...... 30 Plana Restaurant...... 44 E Piccadily...... 52 easyHotel...... 34 Pod Lipite Restaurant ...... 40 Este Restaurant...... 44 Pop Bogomil Hotel...... 34 Etap Adress...... 66 R Erotic Clubs...... 51 Radisson BLU Grand Hotel...... 29 F Rila Hotel...... 33 Fides Interconsult Ltd...... 67 Rock N Rolla...... 50 G Rotto rent-a-car...... 66 Galleries...... 58 S Gloria Palace...... 31 Slavyanska beseda Hotel ...... 34 Grand Hotel Sofia...... 28 Sofia Place Hotel...... 34 Grozd Restaurant...... 40 Sofia Plaza...... 32 Gurka Restaurant...... 42 Sofia Ramada Hotel...... 32 H T Happy Bar&Grill...... 38 T&M Restaurant...... 46 Happy Sushi...... 42 Technopolis...... 52 Hertz Rent-a-car...... 67 K Tell Me...... 50 Hill hotel...... 31 Kempinski Hotel Zografski Sofia.28 The House Hotel...... 34 Holiday Inn Sofia...... 28 Kenzol...... 52 The House Restaurant...... 44 Hurem Sultan...... 46 KFC Fast Food...... 40 The Mall...... 52 I L Triada...... 32 Information Tourist Centre Sofia..67 La Vitta e Bella Restaurant...... 48 Turquoise...... 46 IMC...... 67 Legends Hotel...... 33 V J M VIP Appartment...... 35 Jim Beam Center...... 50 Madrid Hotel...... 34 Y Jim Beam Students City ...... 50 Mamin Kolio Mehana...... 40 Yun Restaurant...... 44