Sitting in the hotel lobby all decked out in my walking boots,icebreaker top socks and support stocking ready for pick up from our pink palace. Why the sauna ?It is a very strict airline so take no chances on luggage allowance but I must say it will be good to get through the checking system and change layers.
Our flight was delayed an hour but finally we are on board and ready for the flight home . Having a read back through my diary has brought back the stand out memories and adventures we have had.
The walking, tough at times but would I have missed it -no, it was within our capabilities so a bit of a challenge gives you a mental edge . The meadows with all the different varieties of wildflowers,some species so familiar to us,the mineral springs scattered along the trails , pristine water everywhere we went .
The food,always of a high standard. Lovely salads in particular and fresh fruit at stalls on the roadside, honey and compote sold at stands and stalls set up by the side of the road . The tasty tomatoes and peppers were in great supply and so fresh.
The people,always helpful and friendly,"no problems" was their response to any situation .Very honest too as displayed by the young girl who ran along the beach to return two lev to Brad when she dropped it.
Our exhilarating jeep ride across country,the evening cruise on the Black Sea,the Free Walking Tours led by personable young Bulgarians proud of their country and the amazing light and sound show in Velika Turnova,the Free Food Tour, such a lot to enjoy and remember. Did I mention the Devils Throat Cave adventure well that was a test of will power!
The sight of fields of Sunflowers as far as the eye could see . The rustic Pomak farmers with their home made wagons, pitch forks and old equipment used for generations and all the colorful gardens in pots and on windowsills.
So many states and stories of their place in society that our guides shared with us . It was so interesting to hear it all come to life through the stories they told. Bronze statues testified to their place in history.
The lovely weather we had and the inexpensive cost of travelling here made it a place to appreciate . Eating out is very reasonable and cups of coffee as little as two lev,watch out when we get back to London.
Finally the cities and the cultural diversity of the country told through the tours we did which unpacked the layers of this fascinating country and gave us an insight into the rich history of a country with many masters.
There was little downside....maybe the train crash so we did not get to ride on the train as planned, not getting to see the Valley of the Roses but celebrations were over so that may wait for another visit.
Thank you Bulgaria for a great adventure,we will have lots to remember and share with friends.
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