• Capital: Suva
  • Time Zone: GMT +12
  • Currency: Fijian dollar

A friendly Fijian welcome and broad smiles await you in this tropical paradise of beautiful beaches, blue lagoons and swaying palm trees. Renowned for stunning sunsets, breathtaking waterfalls, awesome surf, and pristine rain forests, Fiji unsurprisingly draws thousands of visitors to its shores each year.Comprising more than 300 islands, the country is a vibrant melting pot of cultures, where East Indian, Polynesian, Melanesia, Chinese and European converge to form a unique cultural medley. Brimming with colorful attractions, awe-inspiring scenery, friendly people and cultural and sporting activities aplenty, Fiji offers something for everyone. From the wanderlust-suffused traveler to the hedonistic sports junkie, this archipelago at the crossroads of the South Pacific is tourist heaven. And, best of all, there’s an array of accommodation and activities to suit all tastes and budgets.

Cities

Nadi – The Gateway to Fijic703dc7ff21280855882844de5d4afee.jpg

If you’re headed this way, it’s likely that Nadi will be your first (and last) stop. As the home of Fiji’s international airport, this multicultural town links Fiji to the world. It is also your transition port to other parts of Fiji. Whether you’re stopping off here at the start or end of your journey, or staying nearby – there’s lots to explore in Nadi. If you are in transit, you are encouraged to get out and explore the region if you have more than four hours between flights. A last dash of retail therapy and a pampering spa visit to the Rejuvenation Centre on the Nadi backroad should get you ready for your trip. The diverse range of accommodation options allows travellers numerous alternatives depending on budget and location required. Airport hotels are within walking distance. There are also self-contained hotel/apartment options for longer stays.

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Suva is one of the most cosmopolitan centres in the South Pacific, home to around a third of Fiji’s population. Suva is the economic, educational and diplomatic hub in the South Pacific region. You can fly into Suva’s International Airport at Nausori which primarily serves Australia and New Zealand, along with a handful of Pacific Islands as well as domestic and regional flights throughout Fiji. If you are travelling from Nadi you can get here by car or bus, or hop on a flight – it is only a short 25-minute flight from Nadi. Lured by its attractive deep harbour and abundant land, Fiji’s British colonists moved the capital of Fiji from Levuka here in 1882. As a major centre for trade since then, you’ll find many buildings from the British colonial era amongst the city’s more modern high-rise buildings. Be sure to spend time exploring our tropical metropolis with shopping malls, farmers markets, restaurants and entertainment.

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Dangling off the coast of Nadi, this string of 20 idyllic islands are one of Fiji’s most popular and accessible islands destinations. Regular daily boat transfers from Port Denarau on Denarau Island and even shorter flights from Nadi Airport get you to the beach quickly with plenty of time to spare for exploring the island and its garland of coral reefs. With thriving reefs, epic waves and a tranquil lagoon at their doorstep, the region is a perfect playground for water babies.

Language

English is Fiji’s official language but you’ll often find that most people are bilingual – speaking Fijian or Hindustani as well.

Weather

There are two seasons here – warm and even warmer! It’s a sunny, tropical climate that’ll wash the winter chills from your bones.

From December to April, the temperatures are a comfortable 22° – 33°C.  But expect May to November to be slightly cooler with temperatures range from 19°- 29°C.
 

Electricity

The local electric current is 240 volts AC 50Hz. Fiji’s three-pin power outlets are identical to Australia and New Zealand. Most leading hotels and resorts have universal outlets for 240v or 110v shavers, hair dryers and other electrical appliances. Multi-purpose adapters and/or voltage converters can be purchased at some major department or hardware stores but if you are travelling to a remote area, it is probably wise to bring one with you.

Entry requirements

Effective 14 February 2023, international travellers arriving into Fiji by air or sea will no longer be required to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination and travel insurance to enter Fiji. 

Communication

Fiji’s country code is +679. Many hotels and resorts generally have direct dialling facilities (IDD).

What Exotik can offer

  • Classical China with a twist
    • Capital: Beijing
    • Time Zone: GMT +8
    • Currency: Yuan (CNY)

    One of the world’s oldest civilizations, China boasts a history of more than 5 000 years. Its vast territory stretches north and south for about 5500 km and covers an area of 9.6 million square km, making it the third largest country in the world. The amazing landscapes, rich history and culture make China every traveler’s dream destination.

    Cities

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    Capital city of the People’s Republic of China, Beijing is the country’s political, cultural and economic center with a history that dates back to over 1000 BC. It is here where you will visit the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven and the famous Great Wall.

    Xian

    Capital of the Shaanxi province, Xian has a history that dates back to 3000 years. It is here that you will find the world famous Qinshihuang Mausoleum and the army of terracotta warriors and horses.

    Guilin

    The most scenic city in China, Guilin’s fabulous landscape of mountains, sparkling waters, statuesque limestone rock formations and the Li River make it a must see destination when planning your trip.

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    The great metropolis of Shanghai has become one of the fastest growing economies of the world, with a skyline full of skyscrapers and avenues full of shops. And yet, despite its modernization, Shanghai is a city linked with its colonial past. Some popular sites include the Huangpu River and its classic riverfront, the Bund, as well as the river town of Zhujiajiao.

    Language

    Mandarin, Cantonese, numerous dialects and English.

    Electricity

    The electricity is 220 volts; therefore, an adapter and/or converter will be required.

    Entry requirements

     Kindly make sure to have the proper documents required to enter the countries you are visiting. Please refer to www.travel.gc.ca for updated information. Regarding visas, you can refer to the link: www.travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories.
    Failure to obtain these documents prior to travel can result in being denied entry or exit from the country.
     

    Communication

    International access code: 00 International dialing code: 86 Concerning national calls made in China, it is not necessary to dial the 86 country code. If you are calling from Canada, please dial 011, then 86 and finally the local phone number in China.

    What Exotik can offer

  • Edinburgh City Break
    • Capital: Edinburgh
    • Time Zone: GMT +1
    • Currency: Pound sterling

    This region of New England is located at the northern of the Angleterre. There is a land border with the Angleterre. The area of this region is 78 772km2.

    Cities

    Glasgow

    Glasgow, located in Scotland, is the country’s largest city. It is a dynamic center of culture, history and innovation. Known for its industrial past, Glasgow is home to impressive architecture, from Victorian buildings to modern structures such as the Armadillo and Clyde Auditorium. The city is also renowned for its thriving arts scene, world-renowned museums and lively festivals.

    Inverness

    Inverness, in the north of Scotland, is a charming, historic town nestled in the heart of the Highlands. It is famous for its magnificent natural landscape, including the nearby Loch Ness. Dominated by Inverness Castle perched on a hill, the town is a picturesque blend of ancient architecture and modernity. Inverness is also an ideal base for exploring the Scottish Highlands, with its spectacular valleys, majestic castles and vast wilderness. Known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere, Inverness offers visitors an authentic Scottish experience.

    Edinburg

    Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is a city steeped in history, culture and charm. Dominated by its iconic castle perched on a rock, the city is renowned for its well-preserved medieval and Georgian architecture. The cobbled streets of the Old Town contrast with the elegant squares of New Edinburgh. Edinburgh is also famous for its International Summer Festival and Fringe Festival, which attract artists and audiences from all over the world. With its many museums, leafy parks and cosmopolitan atmosphere, Edinburgh is a must-see destination for visitors in search of history and culture.

    Language

    Scots et Scottish English

    Weather

    Windy oceanic climate

    Electricity

    240V

    Entry requirements

    Your passport needs to be valid for the duration of your stay. Customs authorities may ask you to show them a return ticket or a ticket for an onward flight, as well as proof that you have sufficient funds to support yourself for the duration of your stay.

    • Capital: Belgrade
    • Time Zone: GMT +1

    Serbia’s enchanting landscapes are a true feast for the eyes and soul. Whichever region of Serbia you choose to visit, you are guaranteed to leave with lasting impressions of its magical scenery and unrivalled experiences.To explore everything Serbia has to offer, make sure to wander off the beaten track and peek inside its hidden nooks and crannies.Here you will find traditional, rural households open to tourists wanting to experience the authentic atmosphere of a Serbian village. People living in these rural households enjoy a simple, traditional life, at harmony with nature and away from the hustle and bustle of the cities.With its richly diverse culture and gastronomy, Serbia offers exhilarating new experiences which are guaranteed to make for an unforgettable visit.Be sure to check out one of the many film, music and culinary festivals, which bring hundreds of thousands of people to Serbia every year.

    What Exotik can offer

  • Lombok Island adventures
    • Capital: Jakarta
    • Time Zone: GMT +8
    • Currency: Rupiah (IDR)

    Indonesia is the world’s largest archipelago with more than 17000 islands. Bali is known for its mysterious magical feeling. The Balinese people, the breathtaking landscapes and a pleasant climate justify Bali’s nickname as “Paradise Island”. Island of Bali Bali may be small in size – you can drive around the entire coast in one long day – but its prominence as a destination is huge, and rightfully so. Ask travelers what Bali means to them and you’ll get as many answers as there are flowers on a frangipani tree. Breathtaking rice terraces, pulse-pounding surf, enchanting temple ceremonies, mesmerizing dance performances and ribbons of beaches are just some of the images people cherish. People and life style Life in Bali is very communal under the organization of villages. Temple ceremonies, marriage, cremation, farming and even the creative art festivals are decided by the local community institution called “Banjar”. The responsibilities in the day-to-day life are normally administered by both the Banjar and the government. The local government mostly responsible for schools, health clinics, hospitals and roads, and Banjar is responsible for all other aspects of life. There is another association that exists in the banjar named “Subak” that concerns the production of rice and organizes the complex irrigation system. Every family who owns a rice feld must be a member of their local Subak, which then ensures that every member gets his fair distribution of water. A banjar consists of an average of 50 to 150 family members, owning a meeting venue called the Bale Banjar, which is used for regular gatherings and a center for local gamelan orchestras and drama groups.

    Language

    Indonesian Bahasa and English

    Weather

    With the sun shining throughout the year, Bali has a tropical monsoon climate with pleasant day temperatures between 20 to 33 degrees Celsius. Rainy season starts from October to March, when the west monsoon brings heavy showers and high humidity. June to September is considered the driest season, with low humidity and can be cool in the evenings, the best time for any outdoor activities. 

    Electricity

    The electricity is 220 volts; therefore, an adapter and/or converter will be required.

    Entry requirements

    Kindly make sure to have the proper documents required to enter the countries you are visiting. Please refer to www.travel.gc.ca for updated information. Regarding visas, you can refer to the link: www.travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories.
    Failure to obtain these documents prior to travel can result in being denied entry or exit from the country.

    In anticipation spread of Mpox entering Indonesia, we herewith inform you that starting August 31st, 2024, Indonesia has introduced a new entry protocol to keep everyone safe. The SATUSEHAT Health Pass is now mandatory for all flight personnel and passengers traveling to Indonesia. You must complete the SATUSEHAT Health Pass electronic self-declaration form online at the following link: https://sshp.kemkes.go.id/register.
    Remember, you need fill it out before your flight for a smooth entry. 
    Let’s keep our healthiness together.

    Communication

    International access code: 001, 008 International dialing code: 62 Concerning national calls made in Indonesia, it is not necessary to dial the 62 country code. If you are calling from Canada, please dial 011, then 62 and finally the local phone number in Indonesia.

    What Exotik can offer

  • Scandinavian Capitals by Train
    • Capital: Copenhagen
    • Time Zone: GMT +1
    • Currency: Danish Krone

    Denmark is the smallest of the Scandinavian countries and is certainly the most southern in its geographical position. Its people are livelier and warm Scandinavians, always ready to drink, talk, walk outdoors, and enjoy the sunshine. The Danish monarchy, one of the world’s oldest, is a very popular institution fully anchored in the Danish society. Beyond the capital and the bigger cities, Denmark offers a mix of lively towns such as Ribe and Odense plus rural countryside, medieval churches, Renaissance castles and tidy 18th-century villages. Neolithic dolmen, preserved 2000-year-old “bog people”, and impressive Viking ruins are just some of the remnants of the nation’s long and fascinating history.

    Cities

    Copenhagen190d18dc320eecb3e6063378347c447a.jpg

    The coolest, most cosmopolitan, most exciting and, yes, Danny Kaye was right, the most wonderful city in Scandinavia welcome to Copenhagen (København). These days the Danish capital is blossoming. There is a spring in its step borne from a mixture of some brave new architecture, continued prosperity and a burgeoning confidence in its own charms. There are more cafés and restaurants than ever! Copenhagen is clean, safe and ridiculously easy to get to know, the locals all speak superb English and the transport system makes London’s look like it’s on the verge of a nervous breakdown. It usually makes the top five, if not the top spot, as the “most livable city”!

    The Funen

    Funen (Fyn) is engagingly pretty, with rural scenery, thatched farmhouses and a surprisingly varied set of attractions. The chirpy modern city of Odense is Hans Christian Andersen crazy – sculptures of trolls lounge on street corners, duckling-and-swan mobiles dangle from gift shop windows, and even the lights at pedestrian crossings feature a certain well-known fairy-tale writer. Even if you scoff at fantastical fabrications, Odense will have something to hold you – old steam engines, manatees at the zoo, imposing churches and cathedrals, art galleries, open-air museums and chilledout boat rides on the river.

    Jutland Peninsulaf7bcf5a44d3d82574461b6d5c99fb861.jpg

    One of Jutland’s most prized areas is the Lake District (Søhøjlandet), as it dazzles with hills, forests and lakes not found anywhere else in Denmark. This region is home to Denmark’s longest river: the Gudenå, Jutland’s biggest lake (Mossø) and Denmark’s highest point, Ejer. In many countries, visiting the land would probably be a passport to gob smacking scenery and have you reaching for your camera and grasping for superlatives. Not in Denmark! Instead of craning your neck at sky-reaching peaks, here you can marvel over the gentle nature, neat and tame, and the superbly pretty scenery.

    Language

    Danish and English.

    Electricity

    The electricity is 220 volts; therefore, an adapter and/or converter will be required.

    Entry requirements

     Kindly make sure to have the proper documents required to enter the countries you are visiting. Please refer to www.travel.gc.ca for updated information. Regarding visas, you can refer to the link: www.travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories.
    Failure to obtain these documents prior to travel can result in being denied entry or exit from the country.
     

    Communication

    International access code (exit code in Europe): 00 International dialing code: 45 If you are calling from any other European country, the international dialing code 45 is only required to call Denmark from abroad. So it will be: 00 45 and local phone number. Concerning national calls made in Denmark, it is not necessary to dial the 45 country code. If you are calling from Canada, please dial 011, then 45 and finally the local phone number in Denmark.

    What Exotik can offer

  • Brazil of your dreams
    • Capital: Brasilia
    • Time Zone: GMT +3
    • Currency: Brazilian Real (BRL)

    Brazil is the largest of the Latin American countries. Covering nearly half of the South American continent, it occupies an area of 8511965 km2 . It is the fifth largest country in the world after the Russian Federation, Canada, China, and the United States. It is larger than Europe or the continental USA. Except for a small number of islands, Brazil consists of a single, unbroken land mass. The Atlantic Ocean extends along the entire eastern side of the country, giving it a coastline of 7,367 km, with marvelous beaches, each region having its own peculiarities and beauties. The main cities are: Brasília, São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Salvador, Belo Horizonte, Curitiba, Recife and Porto Alegre. Brasília is the capital and where the congress and president are placed. São Paulo is the main city for business and Rio de Janeiro and Foz do Iguaçu (where the huge waterfalls are placed) are the most famous tourist destinations.

    Cities

    São Paulo0eb8baa3377d2dfee6db08db5d5f2ab9.jpg

    Brazil’s dynamic financial center is one of the most populous cities in the world, with many cultural institutions and a rich architectural tradition. Its emblematic buildings range from its neo-Gothic cathedral to the 1929 Prédio Martinelli skyscraper, to the Copán building by the modernist architect Oscar Niemeyer. The Patio do College in colonial style marks the place where the Jesuit priests founded the city in 1554.

    Rio de Janeiro2aa693a6564b9bbbc27f8205d8eb0d62.jpg

    Is a large seaside city of Brazil. It is known for its Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, its 38 meter high Christ the Redeemer statue located at the top of Corcovado and the Sugar Loaf, a granite peak the summit is accessible via 2 cable cars. The city is also known for its sprawling favelas (slums). The famous Rio carnival, with parades of floats, flamboyant costumes and samba dancers, is considered one of the biggest in the world.

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    Salvador is the capital of the state of Bahia, in northeastern Brazil. It is known for its Portuguese colonial architecture, its Afro-Brazilian culture and its tropical coastline. The Pelourinho district is its historic heart, with cobblestone streets that open onto large squares, colorful buildings and Baroque churches, including the São Francisco church, decorated with golden wood paneling.

    Paraty03afba0f6fa380310e8a8e86c4bb61c2.jpg

    Popular tourist destination, Paraty is located 236km from Rio. Recognized for its magnificent setting, it is protected by its majestic mountains on one side and the other by its peaceful bay dotted with islands. City with an incredibly well-preserved colonial character, you will be charmed by its cobblestone streets surrounded by its white houses adorned with windows with multicolored borders.

    Language

    Portuguese

    Electricity

    The voltage is 110 or 220 V. 60 cycles, with the exception of Salvador and Manaus, where it is 127 volts. Most hotels have sockets of 110 and 220 volts and/or supply voltage transformers.

    Entry requirements

    Visa: As of April 2024, Canadian citizens will need a visa to enter Brazil. Please apply online (see pdf with detailed VISA PROCEDURE FOR CANADIANS – Jan 2024).
    A visa is also required if you are visiting only the Brazilian part of Iguazu Falls from Argentina.

    Communication

    International access code: 00 International dialing code: 55 Concerning national calls made in Brazil, it is not necessary to dial the 55 country code. If you are calling from Canada, please dial 011, then 55 and finally the local phone number in Brazil

    • Capital: Bucharest
    • Time Zone: GMT +2
    • Currency: Romanian leu

    Travelers limiting themselves to chasing vampires will miss so much. The capital, Bucharest, has its critics, but the blend of grotesque communist monuments and purposefully hidden-away cathedrals makes for fascinating exploring. Excellent hiking, biking and skiing are found all over the Transylvanian Alps (also known as the Carpathian Mountains), which curl across central Romania. Farmhouse B&Bs allow guests to soak up some village life, particularly in the bucolic paradises of Maramureş and Southern Bucovina, where cemeteries and monasteries are painted as boldly as pop-art paintings.

    Cities

    Bucharestb60b505c60c0e28bad86cf7433fc6fbf.jpg

    One of the biggest cities in Eastern Europe, Bucharest is a vibrant and modern city with an interesting mix of old and new architecture, affordable shopping, vibrant night scene and cultural life as well as many museums and monuments to see. It is also the capital, a major transportation hub and port of entry in Romania. If you are traveling for the first time in Bucharest, you will quickly be enchanted by the many centers of interest that a city like Bucharest can be. If you want a glimpse of the destination or simply a place where you amused, Bucharest mixes traditions.

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    This is a remarkably relax city. Wander its maze of streets, stopping for caffeine injections at bohemian cafes between losing yourself in a beguiling coalescence of Austro-Hungarian gingerbread roofs, baroque gods, medieval spires and Soviet flat-tops. The city’s centerpiece square is Piaţa Sfatului, a people-watcher’s Mecca. There are myriad things to see here, great restaurants and oodles of accommodation. Many use Brasov as a base for skiing in nearby Poiana Brasov, trekking in the Piatra Craiului National Park, castle-watching at Bran and hairy drives on the Transfagarasan Road.

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    Bran Castle, which tourists from around the world nicknamed it “Castle of Dracula”, is reputed to be one of the most famous monuments of medieval architecture. Although Romania is rich in history and ancient architecture, Bran Castle is probably the largest and most famous example. His glory is associated with the Count Dracula, the main character of the novel of the 19th century Bram Stoker, Dracula. Tourists inevitably familiarize with the Romanian folk legends during their stay. Facing the flatlands and backed by mountains, the 60m-tall Bran Castle is spectacular. If you can manage to avoid bottlenecks from tour groups that appear in waves, you may enjoy the largely renovated interiors and claustrophobic nooks and crannies

    Language

    Romanian (official language), English, German and French

    Electricity

    The electricity is 220 volts; therefore, an adapter and/or converter will be required.

    Entry requirements

    Kindly make sure to have the proper documents required to enter the countries you are visiting. Please refer to www.travel.gc.ca for updated information.Regarding visas, you can refer to the link :www.travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories.Failure to obtain these documents prior to travel can result in being denied entry or exit from the country.

    What Exotik can offer

  • Discover Ancient Greece
    • Capital: Athens
    • Time Zone: GMT +2
    • Currency: Euro

    Greece is a country rich in history with many archaeological sites. Out of 6000 islands and islets, 227 of them are inhabited and offer awesome landscapes. Greece is also the country where philosophical democracy was invented by Democrates, Plato and Aristotle. In Athens, the capital, you will be able to visit two important archaeological sites: the Acropolis, one of most touristic site in the world, and the Roman and Greek Agora, place of rally. This country is also known for its Greek mythology, like Zeus, Apollon and Athena. With its many islands, Greece has promising and endless possibilities to explore, as Santorini this volcanic island with awesome sunshine and Naxos, the biggest island, and the place where you can visit the temple of Apollon

    Cities

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    Athens is the historical capital of Europe with a long history, dating from the first settlement in the Neolithic age. Athens. The city with the most glorious history in the world, a city worshipped by gods and people: a magical city. The enchanting capital of Greece has always been a birthplace for civilization. It is the city where democracy was born and most of the wise men of ancient times. The most important civilization of the ancient world flourished in Athens and relives through some of the world’s most formidable edifices. In 1834, it became the capital of the Modern Greek state and in two centuries since it has become an attractive modern metropolis with unrivalled charm

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    One of the most famous destinations worldwide and a favorite holiday spot of the jet set, Mykonos, is extremely beautiful and well known for its bare hills, the amazing sandy beaches, the white country chapels and the Cycladic architecture. Mykonos is famed as a cosmopolitan destination amongst the Greek islands and widely recognized as one of the great travel destinations. It is one of the most touristic islands in the Aegean

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    Santorini is the last of the Cyclades islands to the South. The closest islands are Ios, Folegandros, Sikinos to the North, Anafi and Amorgos to the East and Crete to the South. Santorini is mentioned in all popular travel guides as a unique summer experience. The volcanic island provides an amazing landscape created by the volcanic activity thousands of years ago. Today, Santorini is a unique attraction itself with astonishing rock formations and traditional whitewashed settlements built at the edge of the caldera. It is visited by thousands of tourists and Greeks every summer

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    The cradle of European Civilization – the Island of Crete and its genuinely friendly people welcome you and wish you a wonderful stay!! Some will be visiting for the first time whilst others have now become regulars, but either way, we promise you a truly memorable Mediterranean experience. Crete is the largest island in Greece, and the fifth largest in the Mediterranean. Here, the visitor can admire the remnants of brilliant civilizations, explore glorious beaches, gaze at impressive mountains, fertile valleys and steep gorges, and become part of the island’s rich gastronomic culture. Crete is, after all, a small universe teaming with beauties and treasures that you will probably need a lifetime to uncover

    Language

    Greek & English

    Electricity

    The electricity is 220 volts; therefore, an adapter and/or converter will be required.

    Communication

    International access code (exit code in Europe): 30 International dialing code: 30 If you are calling from any other European country, the international dialing code 30 is only required to call Greece from abroad. So it will be: 00 30 and local phone number. Concerning national calls made in Greece, it is not necessary to dial the 30 country code. If you are calling from Canada, please dial 011, then 30 and finally the local phone number in Greece

    • Capital: Sofia
    • Time Zone: GMT +2
    • Currency: Lev

    For most foreign holidaymakers, Bulgaria’s main lure is its long, sandy Black Sea Coast – which still boasts swaths of stunning beaches and picturesque bays despite the expansive construction work – but there is so much more to this country, and so much of it remains largely untouched and unvisited by overseas tourists. Networks of well-maintained hiking trails and horse-riding routes allow you to discover Bulgaria’s lush mountainous and forested landscapes, especially around the Rila and Pirin Mountains, inhabited by bears, lynx, rare birds and other kinds of wildlife now becoming scarce elsewhere in Europe. Getting around the country is easy, with cheap and efficient public transport to ferry you between the cities and into the remoter, rural corners, where the traditional, slow pace of life continues much as it has done for centuries. The cities, too, are often overlooked highlights, from dynamic, cosmopolitan Sofia with its lovely parks, sociable alfresco bars and fascinating museums, to the National Revival architectural treasures and Roman remains of Plovdiv, and the youthful maritime cockiness of Varna.

    Cities

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    Bulgaria’s pleasingly laid-back capital is often overlooked by visitors heading straight to the coast or the ski resorts, but they’re missing something special. Sofia is no grand metropolis, but it’s a largely modern, youthful city, with a scattering of onion-domed churches, Ottoman mosques and stubborn Red Army monuments that lend an eclectic, exotic feel. Recent excavation work carried out during construction of the city’s metro unveiled a treasure trove of Roman ruins from nearly 2000 years ago, when the city was called ‘‘Serdica’’. Away from the buildings and boulevards, vast parks and manicured gardens offer a welcome respite, and the ski slopes and hiking trails of mighty Mount Vitosha are just a short bus ride from the city center. Home to many of Bulgaria’s finest museums, galleries, restaurants and clubs, Sofia may persuade you to stick around and explore further.

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    With an easy grace, Plovdiv mingles invigorating nightlife among millennia-old ruins. Like Rome, Plovdiv straddles seven hills; but as Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited city, it’s far more ancient. Plovdiv is best loved for its romantic old town, packed with colorful and creaky 19th-century mansions that are now house-museums, galleries and guesthouses.

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    Medieval history emanates from Veliko Tarnovo’s fortifed walls and cobbled lanes. One of Bulgaria’s oldest towns, Veliko Tarnovo has as its centerpiece the magnifcent restored Tsarevets Fortress, citadel of the Second Bulgarian Empire. Historic Tarnovo is tucked into the dramatic bends of the Yantra River, clasped by an amphitheater of forested hills. Bulgaria’s 19th-century National Revival splendor is easy to relive along historic lanes such as Gurko street; similarly evocative is handicraft market Samovodska Charshiya, which retains much the same atmosphere it had two centuries ago. Today’s Tarnovo has Bulgaria’s second-largest university and is home to a multicultural expat scene. Its location between Bucharest and Istanbul has made it a backpacker favorite, though it’s worth more than a stopover if you’re to see it from the heights of its fortress down to its tangle of ramshackle lanes.

    Language

    Bulgarian, Russian and English. Be careful! To say yes, Bulgarians shake their heads left and right. To say no, they tilt it back and forth.

    Electricity

    The electricity is 220 volts; therefore, an adapter and/or converter will be required.

    Entry requirements

     Kindly make sure to have the proper documents required to enter the countries you are visiting. Please refer to www.travel.gc.ca for updated information. Regarding visas, you can refer to the link: www.travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories.
    Failure to obtain these documents prior to travel can result in being denied entry or exit from the country.
     

    Communication

    International access code (exit code in Europe): 00 International dialing code: 359 If you are calling from any other European country, the international dialing code 359 is only required to call Bulgaria from abroad. So it will be: 00 359 and local phone number. Concerning national calls made in Bulgaria, it is not necessary to dial the 359 country code. If you are calling from Canada, please dial 011, then 359 and finally the local phone number in Bulgaria.