============================== BULGARIA ============================== Bulgaria is located on the east Balkan peninsular and has a coast on the Black Sea. It is bounded to the north by Romania, west by Serbia and Macedonia of the former Yugoslavia, and south by Greece and Turkey. The centre of Bulgaria is crossed from west to east by the Balkan Mountains. The south of the country has a Mediterranean climate with hot dry summers and mild winters. Further north the temperatures become more extreme, and rainfall is higher in summer. Traditionally Bulgaria is an agricultural country, and a revolution in farming during the 1950s has led to great increases in output. This was due to the collectivisation of farms and the use of more machinery, fertilizers and irrigation. Area (Sq. Km): 110,910 Population: 8,985,000 Capital: Sofia Language: Bulgarian Religion: Bulgarian Orthodox 85% Moslem 13% Government Type: Republic Currency: Lev Embassy: 186 Queen's Gate London SW7 5HL 0171-584-9400 This is the holiday spot with everything to offer! The Black Sea beaches - long, sandy and gently shelving - are some of the best in Europe and the climate, hot and sunny in the summer, is just about perfect if you want to work on that tan. When you discover the tremendous hospitality and rich cultural heritage you'll soon see why Bulgaria is one of the fastest growing destinations in Europe. Beaches: The sandy Black Sea beaches are safe, clean, shallow and generally have lifeguards - perfect for families! Food: Local dishes include succulent kebabs of lamb and pork, delicious, spicy vegetable dishes and the famous Shopska salad. The full-bodied, fruity wines are excellent and inexpensive. Shopping: Embroidery, ceramics, carved and engraved wood are popular. Outside these outlets credit cards are not widely accepted. Nightlife: Most resorts have discos and nightclubs but generally hotel based. «»«»«»«»«»«»«»«»«»«»«»«»«»«»«» Foreign Office Advice: Bulgaria has a low crime rate, but the incidence of robbery with violence against foreigners has increased recently. Visitors should NOT accept any food or drink from strangers as there is a risk it may be drugged. Vehicle theft, including armed hijacking, has become more frequent. Visitors should be vigilant. For more information ring: Foreign Office Travel Unit 0171-270-4129