ADDITIONAL INFO
Leslie applies her experiences in Bulgaria towards learning how to survive the recession on her great blog, Rakia and Roses. Click here to visit.
Bulgaria
Author: Leslie Strnadel & Patrick Erdley
Pub Date: 08/2010
ISBN-13: 978-0-9822619-9-6
Summer 2010 |
- Overview
Located in the southeastern corner of Europe, Bulgaria has served as a physical and cultural crossroads for centuries. Settled by the Thracians, Romans, Slavs, Bulgars, and Ottomans, its history is an intricate tapestry of cultures.
After shedding its Communist past in 1990, today, Bulgaria is a member of the European Union, North Atlantic Treaty Organization, United Nations, and World Trade Organization.
Bulgaria is an increasingly popular (and refreshing) European travel destination thanks to its inviting atmosphere, exceptional value, and array of activities. Outdoor enthusiasts can trek through the mountains or sun themselves along the Black Sea coast, while gourmands can sample the cheese, yogurt, wine, and rakia.
Less-known than neighboring countries such as Turkey and Greece, Bulgaria will captivate first-time visitors with its natural beauty, centuries-old monasteries, archaeological treasures, and diverse wine regions.
About the Author
Leslie Strnadel
A native Texan, Leslie lived in Toronto and Washington, D.C., before serving as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Bulgaria from 2005-2007. She experienced the country’s warm hospitality, learned about its extensive history, and witnessed its entry into the European Union. Along the way, she enjoyed living in the shadows of Roman ruins, reconnecting with her Slavic roots, and traveling throughout the Balkans. She lives in Dallas.
Patrick Erdley
Patrick Erdley, originally from, Kentucky, served as a Peace Corps volunteer in Vidin from 2006-2008 where he worked in a community center for children in the local Roma neighborhood. Having contact with such a closed community gave him a greater understanding of how many "Bulgarias" really exist, and the complex mosaic that makes up a country the size of Ohio. He returned to Bulgaria shortly after his service and currently works as a kindergarten teacher in Sofia. The capital is vibrant and busy, but he misses his less western-influenced corners of the country, especially the Northwest region. He is a strong advocate for human rights, local businesses, and preservation of nature as Bulgaria has become less of a place to visit, but a home worth caring about.
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