ISSN 1311-9753 I COMPLIMENTARY MONTHLY GUIDE + MAP I MARCH 2013 I ISSUE 237
Bulgaria in Brief 1 dEAR fRIENDS, For the Bulgarians March is a month full of holidays: warm-hearted, moving and unique. On 1 March we decorate ourselves with martenitza and we wish for good health: we make wishes to be red and white, happy-smiling throughout the year. You will find martenitzas all over the city, designed with all kinds of fantasy from woven white and red threads, yarns and natural materials. Have a martenitza taken to save the Bulgarian wishes with you! On March 1 as we have adorned ourselves for good health, each and everyone picks a day of the month and the way the day evolves so will the year develop(unfold), i.e. windy day – turbulent year, sunny - successful, changeable – unsettled. March is called by men – a women’s month. Weather varies as it heralds spring. It gets either sunny or gloomy, windy or rainy – as women’s moods are fickle. Woman is of a great significance to the Bulgarian. She is a dear mother, a fianciie, a sister, a friend – she is his inspiration. On March 8 and 22 women receive flowers, greetings and special attention, for they deserve it! On March 3 the whole nation celebrates the national liberation from the yoke of the Ottoman Empire. A festive day gained through the bloodshed of thousands of Bulgarian and Russian soldiers. Time in our history that yielded committed revolutionaries like Hristo Botev, Vasil Levski, leaders and volunteers, known and unknown, which to this day we are proud of. Time that had introduced the lessons of national consciousness and tolerance, marked by the geographic location of Bulgaria, the presence of different ethnicities, faith, life and culture that entwine. City Info Guide Team
2 CONTENTS Bulgaria in Brief
city guides
City Info Guide
SOFIA Your free copy 4 Bulgaria in Brief 20
Sofia Overview
28
Accommodation
p. 4
38 Bars AND Restaurants 52 Entertainment
p. 52
58 Culture 70 Useful Numbers 72 Index
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Bulgaria in Brief 3
4 Bulgaria in Brief
RAZGRAD REGION – THE UNKNOWN LAND OF ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS AND CULTURES
www.razgrad.bg
Municipality of Razgrad is the biggest municipality of North-Eastern Bulgaria. The municipal centre of Razgrad is located along the Beli Lom River, which divides the town in two watersides. The first-class road and the rail-road between Russe and Varna go through the town of Razgrad, which is the most direct and strategic link between the Danube River and the Black Sea. Razgrad Region is a land of ancient civilizations and cultures. Here Thracians, Romans and Proto-Bulgarians had left their traces. The earliest evidences of human activities here date from 18 000 years B.C. In II century on the territory of military camps was established the ancient town of Abritus. In 251, when the province was destroyed by the invasion of the Ghots, the Roman army was defeated in the surroundings of Abritus and the emperor Trayan Decius was killed. /249 – 351/. The main part of the inhabitants of Razgrad Region belongs to one of the oldest ethnographic groups in Bulgaria, called Kapantsi. There are several local legends about Kapantsi. And Razgrad people deeply believe that Kapantsi are straight successors of the Proto-Bulgarians. If you come in Razgrad, don’t miss to visit the following destinations: Archeological Reserve “Abritus” and Historical Museum – they are 2 km eastwards the downtown, on Russe-Varna road. The museum preserves a lot of unique copies – a collection of idol plastic arts, head of Golden Pegasus, bronze and marble matrixes, votive tablets, the biggest Rome golden monetary treasure etc. The park of the museum is transformed in an Open Air Museum, which has a wonderful presented Lapidarium, and the circumvolutory alley lead the visitors to the Reserve and the ancient town of Abritus. Varosha Square – an original architecture collection which brings the spirit and the feeling of the Renaissance. Many museums and culture centers are gathered here, as well as cozy places of resort, which have preserved the spirit of ancient Razgrad. In the downtown of Razgrad there are some of the town symbols: Clock Tower – monument of the culture from 18th century; The Mosque “Ibrahim Pasha” - monument of the culture from 16th century; “Momina Cheshma” (Maid’s Fountain) monument of the culture from 19th century.
Bulgaria in Brief 5 You can visit the surroundings of Razgrad: Ethnographic Complex of the village of Pobit Kamak – it is situated 20 km North from Razgrad; and Kapanski Ethnographic Complex of the village of Topchii - it is situated 18 km from Razgrad on the road to Kubrat and Tutrakan. And those who love nature and its calmness and beauty shouldn’t miss the two emblematic places for Razgrad: Town Park: It is situated in the north part of the town and has hundred years old history. There are built a lot of sport facilities, children playgrounds and zoo. Pchelina Tourism and Recreation Zone. It is 7 km from Razgrad. The area covers 1 200 ha of hilly landscape and remarkable natural resources – a river, 2 dams, mild weather, rich bio diversity and sights. There are walking routes and a cycling-lane guiding to the Pchelina zone. In the area there are 16 specialized and well marked routes with 46 km total length.
Razgrad is a peculiar culture capital of the Ludogorie Region. Here is an attractive destination during all seasons but it is an exciting adventure to visit the two emblematic festivals in June and July – White Nights of Razgrad and Yoghurt Fair and Festival of Folk Traditions and Crafts. White Nights of Razgrad – A festival devoted to the cultural and historical heritage of the town and its monuments. It is held annually two eves in a row on Enyovden (St John’s Eve) - 23 and 24 of June. In the first eve of the White Nights Renaissance Square of Razgrad “becomes alive”, and in the second eve that is the ancient town of Abritus. Yoghurt Fair and Festival of Folk Traditions and Crafts: That International Art Festival is a reserved label of Razgrad, which made it famous all over the world. It is based on a culinary tradition – the famous Razgrad yoghurt made by an old local recipe. Razgrad becomes capital of yoghurt every year at the end of July. During three days here are gathering masters of yoghurt and crafts form Bulgaria and abroad. Razgrad streets and squares fill with variety of languages, smiles and colors. Dance groups from all over the world compete in dancing and showing the beauty of their native folklore. The traditional open-air processions and evening concerts gather hundreds fans of the beautiful and exotic rhythms.
6 Bulgaria in Brief
1760 years from the battle between Romans and Goths near Abritus and the death of the Emperor Traianus Decius The ancient city of Abritus is among the well researched Roman settlements on the contemporary territory of Bulgaria. Its ruins are located about a kilometre away eastern from the town of Razgrad and remind about the existence of once thriving settlement. Here, in Abritus, has been preserved the tradition of laying down the fundaments on the ruins of an ancient Thracian settlement with unknown name according to the historians. The Romans carried on the life on its ruins about the middle of the 1st century AD after settling their domination in the province of Moesia Inferior. Initially, Abritus arose as a military camp, adjusted in the 2nd century as a town, which since 4th century has been already well planned, fortified and water-supplied. The discovered epigraphic monuments are evidence for the heterogenic ethnic composition of the population and its religious belonging. Despite their differences, Romans, Thracian and Greeks – both military men and civil population – have lived in atmosphere of tolerance, which the historians discover in many researched votive tablets with dedicating inscriptions. The ancient city of Abritus existed until the end of 6th century, when it was completely pillaged and destroyed by the devastating raids of the Avars. In the 7th century on its ruins was established early Medieval Bulgarian fortress, annihilated during the invasions Svetoslav, the prince of Kiev (968-981). After that for several centuries on the land of Abritus there has been no signs of life. In 13th – 14th centuries a new Bulgarian settlement appeared, known as Hrysgrad, Herazgrad or Hrasgrad, whose successor is the contemporary town of Razgrad. Actually, for nearly a century, the scientists have been looking for the ancient Abritus, once described by the ancient chroniclers regarding the big bloody battle near the settlement between Romans and Goths in 251 AD. On June the Roman army, led by the Emperor Traianus Decius (249-251) and his son and co-ruler Herennius Etruscus, faced the invasion of the Goths, led by the cyning (military chieftain) Kniwa. In the merciless battle the Emperor was killed and the Roman army defeated.
Bulgaria in Brief 7 SPA COMPLEX OSTROVCHE RAZGRAD
The vacation SPA complex Ostrovche is located in the heart of lime woodland on the picturesque site of “Lipovoto”, in the village Islet, between the towns of Razgrad and Targovishte. The dynamics of the city, everyday life, stress, noise and industrial zones remain behind the beautiful forest, filled with the scent and sounds of nature. The unique Spa is fully equipped and created for guests wishing to combine relaxation, treatment, prevention, sports, tourism and relaxation.
+359 882 334 433 +359 882 556 655 www.ostrovche.com
THE ISLAND OF PLEASURE
8 Bulgaria in Brief welcome to bulgaria
Welcome to one of the oldest European states with 6000year old gold treasures, a centre of ancient civilisations, a country that hosts the sanctuary of the mystical singer Orpheus and gave the world the first Slavonic letters. Bulgaria is a small country by area and population, but it was this precise piece of land that God blessed with unearthly beautiful nature, a proud people and rich culture. Bulgarians are a hospitable nation – they will greet you like dear guests, will open their hearts and home for you and will see you off with sincere wishes for you to come back again...
FACTS & FIGURES
Population: 7 364 570 Area: 110 993 sq. km Language: Bulgarian Religion: Orthodox Summer temperatures: 26° to 30°C Winter temperatures: -5° to 5°C Time zone: GMT +2 (Apr-Sept GMT +3) Country dialing code: 00 359 Internet country code: .bg President: Rosen Plevnevliev Administrative division: 28 regions 263 municipalities Capital: Sofia (pop. 1 291 591) Major Cities: Plovdiv (671 918), Varna (468 220), Bourgas (409 018), Rousse (230 847), Stara Zagora (327 576), Pleven (266 144), Sliven (193 609), Dobrich (186 016), Shumen (180 452), Pernik (133 750), Yambol (129 156), Haskovo (242 030).
Location and Territory Bulgaria is located in South-Eastern Europe and occupies the Eastern part of the Balkan Peninsula. To the North, the country borders with Romania via the Danube River, to the East it touches the Black Sea, its southern neighbours are Turkey and Greece, and to the West it borders with the Republic of Macedonia and Serbia. The total territory of the country is 110 993 sq. km and Bulgaria ranks 15th in size among the other European countries.
History The Bulgarian state was founded in 681 as a union of new-settled Proto-Bulgarians, Slavs and with the participation of the local Balkan people and Thracians. The Thracians were a tribal society who inhabited a vast area in Central and Southeastern Europe. They were known for making filigree gold and silver jewellery. The great Homer described a Thracian king in Iliad, having “the biggest and handsomest horses I ever saw,/whiter than snow and swifter than the winds/and a chariot finely wrought with silver and gold.” The so called proto-Bulgarians came to the Bulgarian lands from the steppe region of the Volga River basin. They were nomads and in IVc. AD were associated with the Huns. Although being a tribe of equestrians protoBulgarians, in VII c. AD they allied with the sedentary people of the Slavs, who had spreaded all over Central and Eastern Europe and the Balkans in 6th century,
mainly shepherds and farmers, to form the The First Bulgarian State. It gained political recognition from the Byzantine Empire in 681 A.D. The state was ruled by Khan Asparuh, the leader of the proto-Bulgarians, and its capital was Pliska. This First Bulgarian State stretched from Transylvania in the north to the Aegean Sea in the south and from the Black Sea in the east to the Adriatic Sea in the west. It fell to the Byzantines in 1018. During that period, in 855 was created the Slavic alphabet. It was named Cyrillic alphabet, named after St. Cyril, and corresponded perfectly to the phonetic riches of the Slavonic-Bulgarian language. As of today more than 250 million people in Europe and Asia use the cyrillyc alphabet for their national languages, half of them are in Russia. With the accession of Bulgaria in EU, Cyrillic became the third official alphabet of the union. It is in 864 that Tsar Boris I converted the state to Orthodox Christianity. The Second Bulgarian State, established in 1185 at Veliko Tarnovo, reinstated the borders and a Golden Age began during which Bulgaria bordered on three seas. From 1396 to 1878 the country was under the rule (the so called ‘yoke’) of the Ottoman Turks. Sofia became the capital of Bulgaria after the Veliko Tarnovo Constitution was accepted in 1879. From 1878 (liberation from the Turks) to 1944, Bulgaria enjoyed a brief but unstable period of freedom. After 1944 the Communist Party, led by Georgi Dimitrov, took power and proclaimed Bulgaria a People’s Republic in 1946. The Communist regime lasted till November 10th, 1989 when Bulgaria peacefully ousted the Party leader Todor Zhivkov. One of the first sign of Bulgaria’s democratization after 1989 was the establishment of a multi-party system. The new Constitution of the Republic of Bulgaria, adopted on July 12, 1991, proclaims the country as parliamentary republic. On March 29, 2004 Bulgaria joined NATO, and on January 1, 2007 the country became a member of the European Union.
State System
State power in Bulgaria divides into three branches: legislative (represented by the National Assembly), executive (represented by the Bulgarian Government) and judiciary legislative (represented by the Supreme Judiciary Council and the Supreme Court of Cassation). The National Assembly of Bulgaria (Narodno Subranie) consists of 240 deputies, elected for 4-year terms. The parliament enacts laws, approves the budget of the country and ratifies international treaties and agreements. Currently there are six parties in the 41st National Assembly. The largest one is Citizens for European Development of Bulgaria, having 116 seats, followed by Coalition for Bulgaria, with 40 seats and the Movement for Rights and Freedoms, with 38 seats. The president of Bulgaria is elected for a 5-year term and is the head of state and the commander in chief of the armed forces.
Bulgaria in Brief 9
10 Bulgaria in Brief Economy Before the changes in Eastern Europe, the country was entirely dependent of the Soviet Union and the socialist block. A positive change began in 1997, when the currency board system was introduced in Bulgaria, i.e. the national currency (BGN) was fixed to the German Mark, and later to the Euro. Thanks to the strict monetary discipline of the currency board in combination with a series of reforms, the economic system was stabilized and the restoration process was initiated. The years of development of the national economy, seeing an average GDP growth of 4.5% between 1998 and 2005, were followed by steady growth of GDP. In 2005, GDP growth reached 5.5%, in 2006 – 6,1 %, 2007 – 6,2 %, 2008 – 6,6% . This growth has been driven by increased foreign investments, domestic consumption and exports. In 2009, Bulgaria’s GDP fell by 5.1 %, ending a threeyears growth pattern. However after the economy’s stagnation in 2010, in 2011 and 2012, the real GDP growth reached 0.2% and 1.7%. Currently Bulgaria ranks 59th (out of 183 world economies) in the Doing Business 2012 report of the IFC and the World Bank, measuring business regulations and their enforcement.
Currency Bulgarian Lev is pegged to the EURO (EURO 1 = BGN 1,95583). Presently coins in circulation are issued in 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 stotinki and 1 lev. Paper currency comes in 2, 5,10, 20, 50 and 100 leva.
Banking System Currently 30 banks are functioning in the country, serving their consumers through well distributed and balanced network of 2929 branches. They are stable, have excellent capital adequacy and liquidity indicators and the banking supervision is operating properly. The banking system work according to the European legislation and world standards, and 80% of it is formed of top-rate banks of the Euro-zone. The three biggest banks – Unicredit Bulbank, DSK Bank and the United Bulgarian Bank, possess over 40% of all bank assets and generate over a half of the profit in the sector. The Bulgarian consumer is still conservative and prefers to pay in cash. However, the bank payments are developing fast in the past years.
Religion Full freedom of the religious denominations is proclaimed in the Constitution of the Republic of Bulgaria. According to the census from 2011, 76% of the population are Eastern Orthodox Christians, 10 % are Muslims, 0.8% - Catholics, 1.1% are Protestants and 0,2 % are from other religions.
Population and Ethnic Groups Bulgaria is a country with a population of almost 8 millions people. Until the middle of the last century three quarters of the population lived in the villages. At the end of the century, as a result of the last industrialization and the migration to the cities, the ratio has reserved and today 70% is urban population. With its 1,5 million residents the capital city Sofia is the
biggest in Bulgaria. There are seven cities with more than 100 thousand population where nearly a third of the entire population of the country lives. Another 14 towns have between 50 and 100 thousand residents. The proportion between women and men in Bulgaria is 51,4 % to 48,6 %. The smaller share of men is due to their shorter life expectancy, and therefore is sharper in the age groups of over 50 years. According to the 2001 census, 83,9 % of the people in Bulgaria are ethnic Bulgarians, and the biggest minorities are the ethnic Turks (9,4%) and the Roma (4,7%). The remaining 2% include smaller minorities like Armenians, Russians, Romanians, Ukrainians, Greeks and Jews. The majority of the adult Bulgarians have secondary or higher education and among the people between 25 and 64 years of age their share is over two-third.
Official Language and Alphabet The official language is Bulgarian and the official alphabet is Cyrilic. The Bulgarian language belongs to the group of the Slavonic languages. Serbo-Croatian and Russian are the most similar languages to it. Other languages as English, German, French, Russian and Spanish are spoken by 40 % of the population.
Topography The country’s relief is varied (from 0 to 2,925 m above the sea level) and about 60 percent of the territory are hilly and mountainous. The most famous mountains are: Rila (with the highest mountain peak on the Balkan Peninsula Mussala – 2 925 m), Pirin (Vihren Peak – 2 914 m), the Central Balkan (Botev Peak – 2 376 m), the Rhodope Mountains (Golyam Perelik Peak – 2 191 m) and Vitosha Mountain near Sofia (Cherni Vrah Peak – 2 290 m). Numerous natural phenomena are scattered across the country: mountain passes and gorges rock-pyramids and bizarre rock formations, numerous caves and waterfalls, beautiful lakes. Some of the most famous are: the Melnik Pyramids, the Fossil Forest, the Belogradchik Rocks; the gorges of the rivers Trigradska in the Rhodopes and Erma near the town of Tran, Vratsata; the valleys of the rivers Iskar, Struma and Mesta, the canyon of the Roussenski Lom River; the Srebarna Lake; the rock monastery Aladja off the city of Varna, etc. There is a great diversity of karst forms, among these some 4,600 caves. The deepest cave in Bulgaria is Raichova Dupka (387 m deep), and the longest is Duhlata (17,600 m long). The best known are: the Ledenika, the Magurata and the Saeva Dupka Caves in the Balkan range; the Snezhanka, the Yagodinskata, the Dyavolsko Garlo, and the Uhlovitsa Caves – in the Rhodope Mountains.
Bulgaria in Brief 11
12 Bulgaria in Brief Climate
Border and Customs Regulations
The climate is moderate continental with Mediterranean influence to the South. The average annual temperature is 10,5 degrees Celsius.
On the 1st of January 2007 Bulgaria joined the European Union. Visitors arriving from the EU don’t need a visa, 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 visa if the planned stay in Bulgaria does not exceed 90 days. For further information visit the website of the Bulgarian Embassy or Consulate in your country. All other foreigners may cross the border of the Republic of Bulgaria if they hold a valid passport and an appropriate visa (Airport Transit Visa, Transit Visa, Regular Visa or Work Visa). As of 2012, Schengen visa holders have the right for a stay of up to 30 days within 6 months period, withut a short-stay Bulgarian visa. Visitors must have proof of sufficient funds (according to the duration and the conditions of the stay) and onward or return tickets in addition to other documents needed for the next destination. Valid health insurance is required. All visitors to Bulgaria, other than EU nationals, must register as foreigners at the passport directorate on 48, Maria Luisa Blvd. (9th–12th Counter) within five days of arrival. This registration is usually done as a matter of course through the hotel or accommodation establishment. Immigration and entry regulations are very strictly enforced. Passports of all visitors should be valid for at least six months on entry for those requiring a visa, and three months on entry for visa exempt nationals other than those from EU countries, whose passports must be valid for the period of stay.
Four seasons are distinctly expressed – winter, spring, summer and autumn. January is the coldest month of the year. July and August are the hottest summer months and sometimes temperatures go above 30 degrees Celsius. Bulgarians enjoy 2000 to 24000 hours of sunlight per year.
Waters
Bulgaria boasts a huge variety and number of mineral springs of different chemical composition, suitable for prophylaxis and treatments of many diseases. There are about 600 mineral water deposits in Bulgaria with more than 1,600 springs, located mainly at the foothills of mountains. There are many spa resorts in Bankya, Velingrad, Sandanski, the mineral baths of Stara Zagora, Narechen, Sliven and Haskovo, as well as in Kyustendil, Varshets, Hissarya, Merichleri, Momin Prohod and Kostenets. Beautiful lakes lie hidden in the cirques of Rila and Pirin Mountains. There are also dams, surrounded by impressive nature, such as Iskar, Batak, Dospat and many others.
Flora and Fauna
Bulgaria is rich in places where nature has been preserved almost unspoiled and vegetation demonstrates remarkable diversity. A total of 12 360 species have been found in its composition. There are more than 12 National parks across the country with various natural reserves on their territory. The Bulgarian endemic plants, which are to be found nowhere else in the world, number more than 250 species: Rila Primrose, Balkan Violet, Bulgarian Blackberry, Rhodope Tulip, etc. Forests abound with various wild fruit – all of them of proven flavour. There is also a great diversity of herbs. Bulgaria’s fauna numbers more than 13,000 species. Rare mammal species are also to be found in the country.
Communication
The country offers a highway network, including six international highways, which meet the international standards and link Europe with the Orient, and the North with the South. Four out of the ten Trans-European corridors cross the territory of Bulgaria – IV, VIII, IX and X. The first airline in the country, Sofia-Burgas, was opened in 1947. Today there are four Bulgaran airports, servicing commercial airlines: Burgas Airport (BOJ), Plovdiv Airport (PDV), Sofia Airport (SOF) and Varna Airport (VAR). Inter-city and long distance bus transport are also well developed. Urban transport services are provided mainly by bus lines, trolley buses, subway and tramways. Petrol stations on the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria offer petrol with octane numbers 92, 98 and 95 H-unleaded, as well as diesel fuel. There are petrol stations at each FCPP, along international and secondary roads, and in towns and villages. Railway roads – 6 500 km, the better part of which are electric power operated.
Traffic Regulations Traffic rules on the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria, as well as road signals, are in compliance with European Standards. If you enter Bulgaria in a private vehicle, you must have your driving licence, all original registration and ownership documents (including logbook) as well as insurance valid in Bulgaria. If you have hired a car you must have the original contract document, which should state that the vehicle can be brought into Bulgaria. Participants in a road accident driving a car with foreign registration are obliged to remain on the site and wait for the traffic police to come.Drivers are banned from driving after consuming alcoholic drinks (over 0.5 percent per 1000 in the blood) and/or when they are under the influence of other intoxicating substances.The use of a mobile phone while driving is permitted but only with the help of a hands-free device.Travelling around the country, drivers should not exceed the following limitations in km. per hour:
Bulgaria in Brief 13
14 Bulgaria in Brief Vignette System
Telephone Services
The Vignette system is valid for the National Road Network, except for the ring roads and by-pass roads of populated areas as well as the roads within populated areas. Buying a vignette, you have the right to use over 300 km of motor ways and over 18 000 km of roads for the period specified in the vignette.
M-tel, Vivatel and Globul are GSM operators providing digital cellular telecommunication services in Bulgaria. Europe, America, Near East, Japan, Africa and Australia can be dialed directly.
Where to buy a vignette from? There are more than 3000 points of sale, incl. gasstations, post offices and points of sale.You can also buy a vignette from all border-crossing points (BPCs) of the Republic of Bulgaria. There you will find the units of REA (designatead with the relevant mark). These units are open 24 hours. The prices of vignettes are in Euro (EUR). ATTENTION: Driving road vehicles on the Vignette Network without a valid vignette, is a violation and subject to sanctions in accordance to the Road Traffic Law. Assess carefully the duration of your stay and buy appropriate vignette. Prices in EURO of vignette types by categories:
Category C1 EC0 Category “Euro 0, I, II” annual – 665; monthly – 110; weekly – 38; daily – 7
Category C1 EC0 Category “Euro III, IV, V, EEV” annual – 511; monthly – 85; weekly – 30; daily – 7
Category C2 EC0 Category “Euro 0, I, II” annual – 348; monthly – 60; weekly – 22; daily – 7
Category C2 EC0 Category “Euro III, IV, V, EEV” annual – 268; monthly – 46; weekly – 17; daily – 7
Category C3 annual – 34; monthly – 13; weekly – 5
Press and Radio Foreign Press Foreign language newspapers and magazines can be found in the newsstands, as well as at the receptions desk of every hotel.
Foreign Radio BBC World Service 91.0 MHz Sofia
Bulgarian Radio Horizont: 103.0 MHz Sofia; 100.9 MHz Varna; 102.5 MHz Bourgas Classic FM Radio 89.10 MHz Sofia JAZZ FM Radio 104 MHz Sofia Darik Radio 105 MHz Sofia
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 international operator assistance dial & 0123. For some useful telephone numbers please turn to back pages of this guide.
tourism
Bulgaria is a small country (2% of the territory of Europe), but it is blessed with magnificent nature and offers unique opportunities for various types of tourism. The temperate climate makes Bulgaria a perfect destination during all four seasons of the year. Virgin natural beauty, ancient cultures, picturesque villages frozen in time, where life marches in the rhythm of centuries long past – these are only some of the visions and emotions you will be able to store forever in your memories. 37 mountains can be found on a territory of only 110 879 sq.km, each different from the others, with its own charm and attractions. Thousands of opportunities to study the wild flora and fauna and tempting hiking trips await all those wishing to enjoy the beauty of Bulgarian nature. In Bulgaria you will witness the colorful traditions, preserved in many parts of the country, taste local culinary specialties and wines or even master some traditional craft. With that many opportunities for an exciting tour of this small country with rich history and culture, the village, spa, ecological, mountain, adventure, religious, and cultural tourism are the fastest growing branches of tourism over the past few years.
Black Sea Coast Bulgarian sea resorts offer excellent accommodation at five, four, three, and two-star hotels, both seasonal and working all year round, offering a variety of sports and fun activities. The following Bulgarian sea resorts were awarded the prestigious Blue Flag Award: Roussalka, Albena, Golden Sands, Riviera, Sunny Day, Elenite, Nessebar Beach, Sunny Beach, Pomorie Beach, Duni, and the International Youth Center in Primorsko. Various harbours and piers provide opportunities for yachting, surfing, water skiing, scuba diving, motor driving. For more info, look for Varna City Info Guide and Burgas City Info Guide, www.cityinfoguide.net
Bulgaria in Brief 15 Village Tourism “Bulgaria in miniatures”a mobile guide A unique information system was launched on the Bulgarian National Holiday (3 March) 2006, which cannot be found anywhere else in Europe. Bulgarian and non-Bulgarian visitors alike can now receive information about some of the most popular historical monuments and natural phenomena in Bulgaria. “Bulgaria in miniatures” is a mobile guide created with the support of the three largest mobile phone operators in this country. The most significant historical monuments and natural sites in the capital and other towns have now been sign-posted with the number the visitors could dial in order to find information about them in Bulgarian and English languages. The sites in Sofia include: Alexander Nevski Cathedral, Saint Sophia Basilica, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Monument of Tsar Osvoboditel, National Arts Gallery, National Foreign Art Gallery, Sofia City Hall, Ivan Vazov’s House-Museum, National Theatre of Ivan Vazov, Parliament Building, Unknown Soldier Monument, Saint George Rotund, Sofia University of Kliment Ohridski, Bulgarian National Bank, Boyana Church, National Library of Cyril and Mehtodius, Vasil Levski Monument, Vasil Levski Stadium, and The Russian church of Saint Nicolas.
Ski Resorts The winter tourism develops even more intensively. More than EUR 500 million investments were allocated to the Bansko resort, and even more are planned for other traditional winter resort like Borovets and Pamporovo in the coming year. The sustained growth stimulates investments in the branch. The facilities are being renovated while the prices in Bulgaria remain considerably lower than in competitive countries. The capacity of the winter resort increases. During the summer Alps-like mountains offer opportunities for mountain, rock climbing and caving in the 4300 caves (12 are supplied with electricity). Higher mountain areas provide excellent conditions for different sport, e.g. ski mountaineering, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, etc.
Unesco Heritage The UNESCO List of World Heritage now features over 300 landmarks. Nine Bulgarian wonders - seven cultural and two natural sites – are included among them: Rila Monastery, Nessebar, The Kazanluk Tomb, The Sveshtari Tomb, The Madara Horseman, The Boyana Church, The Ivanovo Rock Monasteries, Pirin National Park, Sreburna Lake.
Village tourism in Bulgaria in recent years successfully competes with that in other European countries. The stay in a Bulgarian village provides a unique opportunity to submerge in a traditional environment and lifestyle, which span times and cultures. Imagine magical views, charming villas, guest houses and family hotels, organic food, hospitable local people, over 600 mineral springs, the scent of rose oil and you will gain only a glimpse of what is in store for you.
Adventure Tourism Adventure tourism in Bulgaria is gaining momentum because all regions of the country are equally suitable for high-adrenaline thrills. In most of the mountains you can enjoy incredible rock caves, climb amazing peaks, and finally, soar in the skies with a paraglider. Some of our famous resorts such as Bansko, Borovets and Pamporovo offer opportunities to practice winter extreme sports.
bulgarian cuisine
Bulgarian cuisine consists of plenty of fresh vegetables, eaten raw, roasted or stewed with meat in terra-cotta pots, lots of garlic, onions, oil and spices. Influences of Bulgaria’s neighbours, Turkey and Greece are also present in dishes such as ‘sarmi’ (stuffed vine leaves), moussaka and baklava. A salad and rakia (Bulgarian schnapps) are the obligatory start to the meal. Listed below are traditional Bulgarian Dishes, well worth a try:
Salads Shopska salata – chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, onions and peppers sprinkled with Bulgarian white cheese Snezhanka – thick creamy yoghurt with chopped cucumber or gherkins, walnuts and garlic Kyopolou – roasted aubergines, peppers, loads of garlic, parsley
Soups Bob chorba – traditional bean soup with plenty of herbs Shkembe chorba – tripe soup with garlic, vinegar and chilli, quite tasty if you can bring yourself to try it Tarator – cold yoghurt and cucumber soup.
Meat Dishes Kavarma – meat and vegetable stew, usually served in individual pots Kyufteta – spicy meat balls Kebaptcheta – spicy minced meat, sausage shaped, grilled.
Vegetarian Dishes
Kashkaval (or sirene) pane – fried yellow (or white) cheese Chushki byurek – fried peppers stuffed with egg and cheese Sirene po shopski – white cheese, egg, tomatoes and peppers baked in a pot.
16 Bulgaria in Brief Desserts
Crime
The garash torta is the Bulgarian equivalent of the Sacher Torte, made from eggs, walnuts and cocoa.
Bulgaria has a middle crime rated compared the other European countries. It make good sense to stick with sensible anticrime measures that you would normally carry out in your home country, such as leaving valuables and passports in the hotel safe and being discreet when handling cash in crowded areas. If you are the victim of a crime here, contact local police to report the incident and hire a translator to accompany you to the police station. (& 166) Common European Emergency call number &112 (emergency, police or fire company)
Snacks Snacks (‘zakuska’) are available all over town in tiny shops or from stands on the street. Banitsa – fillo dough pastry filled with white cheese Gevrek – like a very dry bagel, sold from big bags on street corners For the really adventurous, try Boza – a thick malt drink with a distinct smell. (It’s said to be an acquired taste!)
tips Business Days All Government offices are closed on Saturday and Sunday. Most of the private sector companies however have their weekend on Saturday and Sunday too.
National Holidays 1 January – New Year’s Day
Drugs All narcotic substances are illegal in Bulgaria and their possession is punishable by law.
Street Dogs Generally they are harmless and friendly. Should you be unfortunate enough to be bitten, seek medical advice even if the incidence of rabies in the city is minimal.
Ethnic Tolerance
3 March – National Holiday /Bulgaria’s Liberation from the Ottoman Empire/
Bulgaria has long been a model of ethnic tolerance on the Balkans and can be proud of the peaceful coexistence between the various ethnic groups.
1 May – Labour and International Worker’s Solidarity Day
Gay Scene
6 May – Gergyovden (St. George’s Day), and the Bulgarian Army’s Day 24 May – Bulgarian Education and Culture, and Slavic Script Day 6 September – Unification Day 22 September – Independence Day 1 November – Day of the Bulgarian Enlighteners (Holiday for all educational institutions) 24 December – Christmas Eve 25, 26 December – Christmas Days Easter Holidays – 4 days /Good Friday, Holy Saturday, Easter Sunday and Monday
Beggars As in other big cities, Sofia is also a place where one can meet beggars and homeless people. Although they might be disturbing, ignoring them is the most effective way of coping with the situation. On the other hand there are the predominantly gypsy gangs with small babies who usually have to hand over their earnings at the end of the day.
Bulgaria is not a destination well-known for diverse gay and lesbian scenes, but still there is a number of gay-friendly places here and homosexual practices are tolerable by the Bulgarian society. However, Bulgaria has not recognized same-sex couples in its legislation.
Features About Bulgarians • One unique feature is that Bulgarians most often nod for ‘no’ and shake their heads for ‘yes’. Watch out! It can lead to a great confusion. • It is common courtesy to take flowers when invited to someone’s home. These should be an odd number i.e. 3, 5 or 7 stems. 2, 4 or 6 stems are taken only at funerals. • Many public places charge small fees to use their washrooms, usually 0,20-0,50 leva. Some of them still have porcelain ‘squat pots’ instead of real toilets. • Bulgarians are a hospitable nation and they will lay a rich table for you. Do your best not to leave anything on your plate or you will hurt your hostess who has slaved over a hot stove for hours to surprise you. If your hosts have young children, remember to bring a bar of chocolate or some treats for them.
Bulgaria in Brief 17
18 Bulgaria in Brief BULGARIAN
SPOKEN
Поздрави
Pozdravi
Добро утро Добър ден Добър вечер Здравейте Как сте? Добре Аз съм добре Благодаря Извинявайте Как се казвате? Къде се намира...?
[Do’bro ‘utro] [‘Dobar ‘den] [‘Dobar ‘vecher] [Zdra’veite] [‘Kak ste?] [Do’bre] [‘Az sam do’bre] [Blagoda’rya] [Izvi’nyavaite] [‘Kak se ‘kazvate?] [Ka’de se na’mira]
Местоположение
Mestopolozhenie
... улица/булевард ... площад/паметник ... пощата/летището ... ресторант ... пазара/аптеката ... хотел ... гарата/автогарата магазин спирка първата/втората пресечка ... наляво ... надясно ... направо
[‘ulitsa/bule’vard ...] [plosh’tad/’pametnik] [‘poshtata/le’tishteto] [resto’rant ...] [pa’zara/ap’tekata] [ho’tel ...] [‘garata/’avto’garata] [maga’zin] [‘spirka] [‘parvata/’vtorata pre’sechka] [na’lyavo] [na’dyasno] [na’pravo]
Пазаруване
Pazaruvane
Колко струва това? Къде мога да купя?... дрехи обувки храна цигари подаръци евтино скъпо
[‘Kolko ‘struva to’va?] [Ka’de ‘moga da ‘kupya?] [‘drehi] [o’buvki] [hra’na] [tsi’gari] [po’daratsi] [‘evtino] [‘skapo]
Храна и напитки
Hrana i napitki
Имате ли меню на английски? предястия основни ястия десерт вегетариански пиле риба свинско телешко картофи ориз kафе чай горещо бира бяло вино червено вино вода Сметката, ако обичате.
[‘Imate li me’nyu na ang’liiski?] [pre’dyastiya] [os’novni ‘yastiya] [de’sert] [vegeta’rianski] [‘pile] [‘riba] [‘svinsko] [‘teleshko] [kar’tofi] [o’riz] [ka’fe] [‘chai] [go’reshto] [‘bira] [‘byalo ‘vino] [cher’veno ‘vino] [vo’da] [‘Smetkata, a’ko o’bichate.]
ENGLISH Greetings Good morning Good day Good evening Hallo How are you? Good I’m all right Thank you Excuse me What’s your name? Where is ...?
Getting Around ...Street/Boulevard ... Square/Monument ... the post/the airport ... restaurant ... ... the market/pharmacy ... hotel ... ... the station/the bus station shop bus/tram stop the first/second intersection... ... on the left ... on the right ... straight ahead
Shopping How much does this cost? Where can I buy?... clothes shoes food cigarettes presents cheap expensive
Eating & Drinking Do you have a menu in English? starters main courses dessert vegetarian chicken fish pork veal / beef potatoes rice coffee tea hot (temp) bier white wine red wine water Can we have the bill, please?
Bulgaria in Brief 19
20 overview ACADEMICA 2011
www.academicasport.com
In April Academica Sports Complex just open the renewed stadium. The facility is entirely renovated and modernized. The flooring of the terrain is artificial turf of highest quality. Innovative automatic barriers provide the possibility the facility to be used not only in its full capacity for football in its classical game style, but also being divided into 4 small fields it is appropriate for the upcoming game of mini-football. The newly implemented lightening system ensures excellent light in every part of the terrain. Take advantage of the promotional prices in the beginning of every new sports season. Office: ACADEMICA Ltd. Geo Milev Distr., Students House - Bl. 3 Entr. A, Fl. 1, phone 02 489 44 73
overview 21
FOOTBALL ¼ playground - till 18.00h ¼ playground - after 18.00h ½ playground - till 18.00h ½ playground - after 18.00h Whole playground - till 18.00h Whole playground - after 18.00h Football game - till 18.00h Football game - after 18.00h
35 leva per hour 70 leva per hour 80 leva per hour 120 leva per hour 120 leva per hour 300 leva per hour 150 leva per hour 300 leva per hour
22 overview SOFIA CITY REGION Population: Area:
1 291 591 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 serving as a natural entrance to Middle East. The city is easily accessible being two hours away by plane from the Central European capitals Vienna and Budapest, and providing easy connection to the other big European cities. The tourists and business travellers have a smooth way into the city whose airport services 295 regular flights per week operated by 20 foreign and 6 Bulgarian airlines to about 40 destinations in the world.
Land
The region occupies the central part of the Sofia Plain (with average altitude of 550 m) encircled by the Balkan Mountains (in the north) and the Vitosha Mountain and the Lyulin Mountain (in the south). The area abounds in curative mineral springs (Gorna Banya, Ovcha Kupel, Bankya). The Vitosha Mountain is an international winter sports center.
Climate
The capital city enjoys moderately hot summers, snowy winters and beautiful springs and autumns.
Through the Centuries
Founded seven thousand years ago, Sofia is the second oldest city in Europe. It has been given several names in the course of history and the remnants of the old cities can still be seen today. Serdika was the name of the central dwelling of the ancient Thracian tribe known as “Serdi”. It bore that name when it became part of the Bulgarian state at the beginning of the ninth century and was soon recognised as one of the most important feudal towns, acquiring the Slavic name Sredets. Near Sofia lies Boyana church, which is one of the most valuable memorials of Bulgarian and European culture. The church boasts frescoes, acclaimed by specialists as “the best examples of eastern mediaeval art during its twelve century history”. The decline of Sofia during the Ottoman Empire was followed by the rejuvenation after the liberation in 1879, when Sofia was chosen as the capital of Bulgaria at the First National Constituent Assembly. The plans of 18811882 were followed by a brisk and straight-forward period of construction. In 1900 the City Council approved the emblem of Sofia
Sofia Municipality 33, Moskovska Str. (map E3) & 02 937 73 03 www.sofia.bg and the motto “It Grows but Does not Age”. During the years of the totalitarian regime (9 September 1944 – 10 November 1989) Sofia became the major national economic, academic and cultural centre. From its years of socialist growth, however, the capital inherited a great deal of problems, which are at present the priorities of the democratically – elected council of Sofia.
People, Towns and Culture
The population of Sofia is almost 1,3 million people with high average population density. In the past couple of years the unemployment rate in the city has been the lowest in the country. The workforce in Sofia is highly educated, motivated and flexible. The city creates and develops 80% of the intellectual recourse in the country with 19 universities situated on its territory. Sofia has been the capital of the Republic of Bulgaria since April 3, 1879. It is the permanent seat of the National Assembly (the Parliament), the President, The Council of Ministers, the central governing bodies of various agencies, political parties and public organizations. Sofia accommodates the largest scientific and cultural institutions in Bulgaria.
Economy
Sofia is the biggest and the most dynamic center of the economic life in Bulgaria. The Gross Domestic Product (GDP), generated in Sofia forms 29% of the national GDP. Half of the foreign direct investments in Bulgaria are concentrated in the capital. One third of the annual tax revenues in the national budget come from Sofia. The service sector is far more developed than the production one. Industry plays a secondary role and the most developed sectors are machine tool engineering and metal processing, metallurgy, food and beverage productions, paper and textile industries. The private sector in Sofia is forming 90% of the city economy.
Banks and Exchange
Money can be exchanged safely at most banks and also at reputable exchange bureaux. (Hotels and airports tend to give less favourable rates). Exchange bureaux are required to display clearly the exact exchange rates and they are no longer allowed to charge a commission for money
overview 23 exchange, so check this first. As regards exchange rates, at the time of writing BG lev is worth EURO 1.95583; USD 1.39; GBR 2.24. Banking hours run from 08.30 to 16.30 Monday to Friday. Some are also open till 17.00. Exchange bureaux are usually open from 09.00 until 17.00 or 18.00 and stay open later in the summer. Some of them are open 24 hours throughout the summer. Sofia has plenty of ATMs, with particular concentration in the city center. All major European and North American debit cards are accepted in the country.
Airport Information
For flight information: www.sofia-airport.bg Located 10 km (6 miles) east of the city centre, the busy two-terminal airport is linked to the most of the capitals in the world. The bright, modern and smoke-free Sofia Airport has the capacity to serve 2.5 million passengers. A new “Terminal 2” building, designed with special attention to disabled passengers was opened in December 2006. A large parking lot is located in front of the old terminal building. A new multi-level parking garage providing 820 parking spaces is linked to the departures area of the new passenger terminal. The car parks are open non-stop and parking fee is 2 to 3 leva per hour. Avoid taking airport taxis other than “O.K. Supertrans” providing services to the city centre for BGN 10/ Euro 5. The regular N84 bus line cover the route Sofia Airport–Sofia University. Tickets cost BGN 1.
transport
The names of all streets are written in Cyrillic, which might make finding your bearings harder, therefore if the map is not sufficient, please ask a local to show you the way. In many places around the city centre are erected large billboards with a public transport city map in English, which may also serve as a point of direction. Driving in Sofia maybe a traumatic experience particularly, during rush-hour (8.00-10.00 h and 17.00-19.00 h). Traffic jams are inevitable along the central city roads and the busier peripheral capital boulevards. A common occurrence along the A1 and A2 motorways, and the international E 79 route, are the Friday night and Sunday afternoon queues of traffic as a lot of capital residents drive in and out into the countryside. In the event of an accident, the traffic police (KAT– & 166, 02 982 49 01) should be called and a report filed. The process is lengthy but necessary for any insurance claims. (Check with your car hire company about formalities!) In the event of a breakdown, there is a 24-hour Road Assistance service: & 02 91 146, from cell phone: & 146. The central dispatch office is open 24 hours a day and is located at 3, Pozitano Str. (& 02 980 33 08). English and German are spoken. Charges for towing range are a base fee of Euro 10 plus Euro 1.40 per km. Usual waiting time is between 5 and 30 minutes.
Car Parks
The main car parking areas in the centre are: • Makedonia Sq. • TZUM (Maria Luiza Blvd.) • Corner of Evlogi Georgiev Blvd. and Gurko Str. • Corner of Evlogi Georgiev and Yanko Sakazov Blvd. • Corner of Frityof Nansen and Bulgaria Blvd. (NDK, underground) • NDK (Vitosha Blvd.) You can park for up to 2 hours in the city centre, in the designated “blue zones”: opposite the Parliament, by the National Art Gallery, off Rakovski Street near the Cathedral, etc. The fee for up to one hour parking is 1 lev. Vouchers are usually sold by attendants in these locations and they will help you fill them out. (Please note: some car parks are privately run and prices vary). Use your common sense and don’t park in restricted zones even if everyone else seems to be doing so. Sofia City Council are hot on the heels of their Western counterparts with yellow wheel clamps, and if that’s not bad enough they’ll even tow your car away, usually to the car park near the Hilton Hotel or the one next to the Central Railway Station.
Postal Services Central post station – 6, Gen. Y.V. Gurko Str. (7-20.30h) Main postal rates: small letters - 0.60lv. (for BG) Package (parcels) 0-1kg - 2.15lv. (for BG) 23.70 - 46.90lv.(for EU) to 5kg - 3lv.(for BG), 43.20-179.90lv.(for EU)
Public Transport
Sofia offers cheap and extensive public transport. There are trams, buses, and trolley buses as well as a short section of the city subway (please see map for details) which cover most of the city. There is also a fleet of privately run “Marsh-route taxis”, which covers the more obscure routes. (Ticket price 1.50 lv. Pay the driver as you get on.) Public transport runs daily from 5.30 till 23.00 for buses and trams. Tickets: single use, for any distance on any tram, bus or trolley-bus line. Price: 1 lev. Transit Cards: One day, all lines – 4.00 leva; Five days, all lines – 15.00 leva; One month, all lines – 50.00 leva Single trip tickets are sold at kiosks and newspaper stands at the major stops or by the driver of the vehicle. You have to punch them inside the vehicle (look for the metal punch on the walls). If you transfer you must use another. If your luggage exceeds the size 60x40x40 you have to punch a second ticket. It’s the same if you travel together with your pet. Tickets are inspected at random by conductors. The fine is 20.00 leva.
24 overview Bus Lines
The Central Bus Station is a modern transport complex with covered area 7 173 sq. m. The building is airconditioned and secured. There is also a pharmacy, room for mothers with children, medical center and special equipments for people with disabilities and physical infirmities. Eight shops, a restaurant, cafes and bank branches are situated on the first floor. There are eight toilets and two with features for people with disabilities. At the three up levels are situated carter’s offices. At the ground floor are situated waiting room (1500 sq. m. total area) and 57 ticket desks. About 2 250 travelers per hour pass through the waiting room. The tickets payment can be done cash or by debit and credit cards.
Railway
in a group of two or more, most hotels do have single rooms, but they’re fixed at about 70-80 percents of the price of a double. Sofia offers fantastic choice of restaurants at comparatively modest prices. Our recommendation is to avoid the extras and concentrate on the main courses, which start around BGN 10/Euro 5. Tipping at a restaurant is expected – around 10-15 %, even when the service has been dire. Taxi drivers expect a tip too, in the same percentages.
Entertainment The city is a pleasant location to live and have fun in. Sofia’s appeal is in its cosmopolitan atmosphere and various opportunities for entertainment and tourism.
Central Railway Station (Tzentralna Gara), www.bdz.bg This is the main railway station with regular daily services to Bulgaria’s main cities, towns and abroad. Train travel is relatively cheap if you are prepared to put up with longer travelling times but for those who feel daunted driving–it is a more relaxing way to see the country. First class is quite affordable. You must book your seats.
The citizens and visitors of the city can choose from
Taxi
life in the country and boasts 31 movie theatres, 23
All legal and registered taxi cabs must be yellow and operate by meter. Rates per km (between 0.56 – 0.79 leva), any starting and call-out charges must by law be displayed on the windows.
Travellers with Disabilities Sofia isn’t one of the best places in the world to visit if you have mobility problems or other physical disabilities. Although all public buildings are required to be wheelchair-accessible and provide suitable toilet facilities, this is still a matter of future.
Daily Cost
By Western European standards, Sofia is very reasonable priced, with most basic items – from food to clothing. As for dining and drinking, the sheer number of restaurants and bars keeps prices down. On the other hand, accommodation in Sofia is generally more expensive than in the rest of the country and prices are analogous to the average European ones. If you are prepared to buy your own lunch, stay in hostels and stick to the least expensive bars and restaurants, you could scrape by on around BGN 70/ Euro 35. Staying in a good B&B, eating out in mediumrange restaurants more nights and drinking often in bars, you’ll go through at least BGN 150/Euro 75. If you are planning to stay in the best hotels and to have a big night out, expect to spend at least BGN 500/ Euro 250. As always, if you are traveling alone you’ll spend much more on accommodation than you would
more than 3000 restaurants, cafes and bars which offer an excellent cuisine and a wide variety of good quality wines. The prices are among the lowest in Europe for sure. (See the Daily cost section above). Sofia is also the focal point of cultural and artistic theatres, 27 museums and numerous art galleries and exhibition halls. The city hosts a series of international concerts and festivals with the prices of tickets being significantly lower than in Central and Eastern Europe.
Medical Services Take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance to cover the full period of your stay in the country. If you are EU citizen, you need to take a EHIC with you. The card gives access to state-provided medical treatment only. You will not be covered for medical repatriation, on-going medical treatment or treatment of a non-urgent nature. Standards of medical care are excellent. The Accident and Emergency Hospital for Sofia is the Pirogov hospital at 21, Gen. Totleben Blvd., opposite the Rodina Hotel (& 02 915 44 11). There is a ward for foreigners in the University Hospital “Sv. Anna” in Mladost-1 (& 02 975 90 00). Your Embassy may be able to refer you to a doctor who speaks your language. For emergencies: Ambulance: & 150 Other useful numbers: 24-hour pharmacies: & 178 Private polyclinics: IMC & 02 944 93 26, Vita & 02 943 43 98, Thorax & 02 912 85
overview 25
AUTHENTIC BULGARIAN CUISINE
Restaurant POD LIPITE
1, Elin Pelin Str. phone: 02/ 866 50 53 02/ 866 50 59 cell: 0886 80 12 27
26 overview
WALKING TOUR DISCOVER SOFIA IN 60 MINUTES 9.
This month our tour continues with several more intriguing places of interest which one must see, among the many other sights in Sofia. 1 We are starting with a visit to the 9.
church “St. Nikolay Chudotvoretz” (St. Nicholas the Miracle-Maker), also known as the Russian Church, which was built 1913. In the crypt of the church is the sepulchre of Archbishop Seraphim, referred to as the miracle-maker. The church has five small gilded domes, and a 19 meters high central dome. The church bells are a donation from the Russian Tsar Nicholas II (1868-1918).
8
2 In a very close vicinity to the church is the building of the Military club, erected in 1907. By itsside is Rakovski street along which we gradually walk on to the intersection with Moscovska street, where the oldest residential building of cooperative ownership is situated.
9.
3 It is called House “Saint Sofia” and was built back in 1929. Part of street Moscovska is covered with thefamous yellow pavement, donated by Emperor Franz Joseph of Tsar Ferdinand.
7
18
2 6
8
4
1 3
2
5
16
overview 27 4 5 From here we continue our trip, leaving the church St. Sofia and Alexander Nevski Cathedral on our right. 6 Walking along Rakovski street we reach the building of the Opera, which had been designed in 1921, but was completed in 1953. 7 Then on Dondoukov Boulevard we turn right and walk straight, until we get to the Roman amphitheater of Sofia – the Arena of the Serdica amphitheater. It is 60.5 m long and 43 m wide, only 10 meters smaller than the Coliseum, and used to gather more that 20 000 spectators.
8 Finally we take the small street, called Budapest, and we are off to the former royal palace of Bulgaria, situated in downtown Sofia, at Battenberg square. This is our last stop and the place from where, next month, our tour will take you to even more interesting and full of history sights.
28 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 Please note: Number of stars according to the Bulgarian classification
hotels
1, Gen. Yosif V. Gurko Str.
h 15 map D3
& 02 811 08 11
Public transport:
fax: 02 811 08 01
Tb-9; Tm-12,17
Reservations: & 02 811 08 00
111, Alexandar Malinov Blvd.
h 36 map back
& 02 807 07 07
Public transport:
fax: 02 807 07 08
B-413,113,213, 214
e-mail:info@holidayinnsofia.bg www.hisofiahotel.com
e-mail: reservations@grandhotelsofia.bg
Room rates: from EURO 70.00
Room rates: EURO 150-235 Located in the very city center, overlooking the City garden 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 are also 17 comfortable oversized suites including 2 Grand suites and 3 Panorama suites with balcony, providing the finest lodging in Sofia. All rooms have air condition with
The hotel offers luxurious bedrooms with flat screen television, Hi-speed & Wi-Fi internet access & separate bath & shower. International Executive Chef providing variety of dining experiences ranging 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
individually controlled temperature, satellite and pay
rates. ESPRIT Fitness & Spa including 19 m indoor
TV, inroom safe and electronic lock system, separate
swimming pool & gym with latest “Technogym” equip-
bathtub and shower cabin, bathroom telephone. Direct
ment. In close proximity to airport and downtown.
international dial telephones, voicemail messaging and
Substantial parking available. 130 rooms (116 double/
high speed Internet access. Conference facilities seat-
twin/ 10 Executive/ 4 Suites).
ing from 10 to 150, gourmet restaurant, café, lobby bar, cigar bar, piano bar, health centre, indoor parking.
Kempinski Hotel Zografski Sofia
Hilton Sofia
100, J. Bourchier Blvd. & 02 969 22 22, 02 969 22 33
1, Bulgaria Blvd. & 02 933 50 00 fax: 02 933 51 11
h 4 map C6
Public transport: B-72, 604, 76, 94
h 1 map C8 Public transport:
fax: 02 969 22 23
Tm-9
02 969 22 34 e-mail: reservations.zografski@kempinski.com
The 8-storey urban business hotel is centrally located
www.kempinski.bg
e-mail: Reservations.Sofia@hilton.com
Room rates: EURO 85
Room rates: EURO 140-275 with easy car access.
Situated on posh Lozenets hill overlooking the bustling
245 rooms (includes 54 executive & 17 suites), non-
city and with a panoramic view on Vitosha Mountain.
smoking rooms, fitness centre, swimming pool. Enjoy
446 rooms and suites, 4 restaurants, 3 bars, most
award-winning cuisine and mountain views at Seasons
extensive catering facilities in Sofia, pool & fitness,
Restaurant or pampering at the Health Club or beauty
bowling alley, shopping arcade, casino, landscaped
salon.
party gardens. Comprehensive 5-star services.
Accommodation Accommodation 29
Radisson BLU Grand Hotel
Sheraton Sofia Hotel Balkan
4, Narodno Sabranie Sq. h 7 map E4 & 02 933 43 33 Public transport: fax: 02 933 43 35 Metro e-mail:info.sofia@radissonblu.com www.sofia.radissonblu.com Room rates: EURO 120 - 145 Enviably located in the most attractive part of the city centre, on the famous yellow paved square, overlooking Parliament and Alexander Nevski Cathedral. The hotel is in close proximity to the business district as well as many of Sofia’s captivating tourist attractions, making it ideal for business and leisure travellers. 136 rooms, including Economy, Standard, Superior, Business Class rooms & suits and Junior suits, nonsmoking rooms and rooms with facilities for handicapped people. All they are equipped with high-quality amenities including Free wireless Internet access (WiFi). Fitness Center, Restaurant & Bar on Mezzanine, Irish Flannagans Bar, in-house London Casino. The seven fully-equipped meeting halls accommodate business meetings or special events for 400 guests.
5, Sveta Nedelya Sq. h 3 map C3 & 02 981 65 41 Public transport: fax: 02 980 64 64 Metro; Tm-9,10, 12, 18 e-mail: sofia.sheraton@luxurycollection.com Room rates: EURO 135 - 225 Located in the heart of Sofia, it is ideally situated just a stroll from the business and commercial district. Recognized as one of the city’s grandest hotels and architectural landmarks, the Sheraton Sofia offers guests an exceptional experience of Bulgaria’s finest culture and service. Archways of ceiling-high columns, distinctly constructed doors and moldings, and imported Italian marble floors outline the lobby of the hotel. Offers 184 splendid, soundproof rooms and suites, including one Presidential Suite, 17 spacious suites, 17 smart rooms and 71 non-smoking rooms. Highlights include a complete 24-hour business center, shopping, hairdresser/ beauty salon, 24-hour concierge and room service, butler service, laundry, and dry cleaning available seven days a week.
30 Accommodation
les fleurs 21, Vitosha Blvd. h 33 map C4 & 02 810 08 00 Public transport: fax: 02 810 08 01 Tm-1,7 Room rates: EURO 130-250 www.lesfleurshotel.com Situated in the heart of Sofia’s main shopping, business and historical attractions. The hotel features exquisite decor, intuitive service and an extraordinary blend of luxury and convenience in style with its floral surroundings. Hotel offers a floral setting of unmistakable grandeur, ideal for business or leisure.A panoramic lift leads to 31 room across 7 floors. For the culinary at heart, Le Bouquet Restaurant offers delicious food,great stakes and has a special wine selection.
HOTEL
6, Stara Planina Str. Best Western Plus2 915City phone +359 15 00Hotel Sofia cell +359 885 650 665 www.sofiacityhotel.com reservations@sofiacityhotel.com
6, Stara PlaninaEnjoy Str. your stay! h 12 map E2 & 02 915 15 00 Public transport: fax: 02 986 20 00 Tm-20,22 office@sofiacityhotel.com Metro www.sofiacityhotel.com Room rates: EURO 69-169 First-class hotel right in the city centre, close to the Sofia Opera House. 61 air-conditioned rooms and suites, Internet access, lobby bar, restaurant, 2 conference rooms, currency exchange office, sauna, massage center, hair-dresser, laundry, dry-cleaning and summer garden.
Best Western Hotel Expo 149, Tsarigradsko Shose Blvd. h30, map back & 02 817 81 00 Public transport: fax: 02 974 30 90 B-114, 1, 2, 3 e-mail: reservations@hotelexposofia.com www.hotelexposofia.com Room rates: EURO 103-183 Located only 7 minutes from the Sofia Airport and City Center, and a step away from the Inter Expo
Center, the hotel offers a wide range of facilities and services. 90 luxurious bedrooms and 9 exclusively decorated suites, equipped with: mini bar, direct dial telephone, Wi-Fi Internet, satellite TV, self-controlled air-conditioning, in-room safe, bathtub, hairdryer and telephone in the bathroom. Free hot drinks in the room. Non-smoking floors. Four meetings rooms, Lobby and Mezzanine Bars, Restaurant, Fitness Center, Casino.
Best Western Premier Thracia Hotel 30, Solunska Str. h 45 map B4 & 02 801 79 00 Public transport: fax: 02 801 79 79 Tm-1,7 e-mail: reservations@thraciahotel.com www.thraciahotel.com Room rates: EURO 109-240 Situated in the most prestigious area, amid the wonderful cafés and shops, major business areas and tourist attractions in Sofia, the newly smart hotel is a perfect example of the very best in Premier Hotel style. Elegant, sophisticated and chic, Best Western Premier Thracia Hotel’s public areas are urbane and witty. The hotel’s 43 opulent guestrooms and five delightful suites are with stylish and comfortable Italian furniture, elegant curtains and bed spreads, and soft, noise absorbing carpeting in the rooms and the corridors. Some of our suites are equipped with private terraces with wonderful view on the roofs of Sofia and Vitosha Mountain.
106, Vitosha Blvd. h 43 map B5 & 02 805 81 81 Public transport: fax: 02 805 87 8 Tm-1,7 Reservations: & 02 805 88 88 e-mail: reservations@centralparkhotel.bg www.centralparkhotel.bg Room rates: EURO 150-220 A new hotel in the heart of the city, close at hand to the National Palace of Culture and the finest shopping area of Sofia. 74 elegantly appointed rooms (8 single, 60 double/twin, 6 DeLuxe) with free high speed internet access. 3 Panorama suites with splendid view on Vitosha mountain and the central city square. 2 nonsmoking floors available. 2 conference halls with 40 and 70 seats, Business centre, Restaurant, Lobby bar.
Accommodation 31
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 êêêêê Grand Hotel Sofia Hilton Hotel Holiday Inn Sofia Hotel Kempinski Hotel Zografski Les Fleurs Hotel Sheraton Hotel
êêêê Best Western Hotel Expo Best Western City Hotel Plus Best Western Pemier Thracia Hotel Casa Boyana Hotel Central Park Hotel Downtown Hotel
HOSTELS
Be My Guest Hostel Canape Connection Trakia Guesthouse
APARTMENT RENTALS Anima M Real Estate Apartment House Sofia Dunav Apartment Hotel Prime VIP Appartments
Maria Luisa Hotel Novotel Sofia Hotel Princess Hotel Rodina Hotel
êêê Accord Hotel Amfora Hotel Arte Hotel Astra Hotel Budapest Hotel California Hotel Diter Hotel Favorit Hotel Hemus Hotel Holliday Village Diplomat Hotel Lion Hotel
Meg-Lozenetz Hotel Niky Hotel Park Hotel Moskva Rila Hotel Rotosar Hotel Sofia Place Hotel Slavyanska Beseda Hotel Villa Boyana Hotel
êê Simona Hotel The House Hotel
ê easyHotel Madrid Hotel Pop Bogomil Hotel
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Airport Sofia - Terminals 1, 2
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Information Center Sofia
phone 02 980 85 01, cell 0896 717 225, sofiacityguide@gmail.com
WWW.CITYINFOGUIDE.NET
32 Accommodation Sofia Princess Hotel 131, Kn. Maria Luiza Blvd.
h 13 map C0
& 02 933 88 88
Public transport:
fax: 02 933 87 77
B-60,78,213,305,404
www.bgprincess.com
Tm-3,9,18
e-mail: reservations.sofia@bgprincess.com
29, Knyaginya Maria Luiza Blvd.
rates: EURO 93-114
& 02 980 55 77
Public transport:
fax: 02 980 33 55
Metro; Tm-20,22
The traditional Princess hospitality meets with its guest at Sofia Princess Hotel. 601 rooms enjoys a superlative position right in downtown facing the most atractive local historical attraction. The hotel has 564
h 9 map C3
e-mail: reservations@marialuisa-bg.com www.marialuisa-bg.com Room rates: EURO 75-135 The Maria Luisa hotel occupies an exquisite build-
air-conditioned twin and single rooms, 20 connected
ing dating back to the turn of the last century and
rooms and 13 suites, 1 Presidential Suite, 3 Disabled
considered one of the national cultural monuments. It
Room. Meridien Restaurant, Lobby Bar, Lobby patis-
is situated in the very heart of Sofia in close proxim-
serie. Indoor swimming pool, fitness centre. 7 multi-
ity to significant business and administrative centers,
function conference halls. Casino “Princess”.
Ministries and Central shop markets. 15 rooms, 5 suites, restaurant, lobby bar, business centre, parking. All rooms are beautifully appointed, with luxury insuite bathrooms, cable TV, audio equipment, direct telephone connection, internet access.
27, Vasil Levski Blvd.
h 17 map C5
& 02 930 52 00
Public transport:
fax: 02 930 53 00
B-94, Tb-9,1, 2, 5, 8
hotel@hotel-downtown.net
GPS: N 42.696895,
www.hotel-downtown.net
E 23.319111
Novotel Sofia 115N Tsarigradsko Shosse Blvd.
Conveniently located in the very city center, near the
&/Fax +359 290 43 000
National Palace of Culture, minutes away from the
www.novotel.com
major business, financial and cultural sites, shopping areas and tourist attractions, the boutique hotel Downtown offers a perfect setting for business and leisure.
h 55 map back Public transport:
Metro; B-84, 204, 604
Novotel Sofia is ideally located in one of the most important business districts of Sofia and is only 10 min from the historical city center and the airport. This new 4-star hotel is adjacent to The Mall, Sofia’s biggest shopping and entertainment center. Either you
59 air-conditioned, non-smoking guest rooms, includ-
come for business, for a meeting or with your family,
ing 12 suites, all being a harmonious blend of the
you will be fascinated by the modern atmosphere and
cozy comfort of a home and luxurious amenities of a
functionality of its design. WIFI is free of charge in all
hotel. Free Internet; Meeting facilities up to 60 persons;
hotel spaces. Take advantage of the restaurant and the
Restaurant and lobby bar; Fitness, sauna, solarium and
bar or relax in our fitness where massages are also
massage for maximum guest comfort.
available. Parking is free for all hotel guests.
Accommodation 33 1 km away from NDK. 14 standard rooms, 4 deluxe rooms, 3 superior deluxe rooms, 3 suites, 1 penthouse. All bathrooms equipped with Jacuzzi, some with steam shower. Sauna, ADSL, Internet access. Tavern in traditional Bulgarian style, lobby-bar. Credit cards accepted. 108, Besarabia Str. 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: reservations@hotel-astra.bg www.hotel-astra.bg Hotel The complex is located in a tranquil but a communicative area, in close proximity to Vladimir Vazov 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 organization of conferences and special events. Astra Hotel offers to its guests 50 rooms Room rates: EURO 55-90 The price includes breakfast, VAT, insurance and tourist fee. The restaurant is the preferred setting for holding weddings, banquets, business cocktailparties, private celebrations and parties. The Hotel offers excellent conditions for the organization of meetings and events.
5, Knyaz Al. Dondukov Blvd. h 11 map D3 & 02 402 71 00, 02 402 71 12 Public transport: fax: 02 402 71 09 Tm-20, 22 www.artehotelbg.com Room rates: Euro 110-130 Just around the corner of the Presidency and the Ministry Council buildings. The guests live together with Bulgarian art & world’s classical music masterpieces. The chamber-size restaurant with 50 seats provides sophisticated Italian food and artistic atmosphere.
California 30, Bigla Str. h 48 map D9 Lozenets Distr. Public transport: & 02 962 93 00 Metro line 2 - J. Bourchier St. fax: 02 962 55 42 Tm - 10, B - 88, 98, 120 e-mail: info@hotelcaliforniasofia.com www.hotelcaliforniasofia.com Room rates: EURO 40-84 (weekend, long stay discounts)
Diter hotel 65, Han Asparuh Str. h 49 map C5 & /fax 02 989 89 98 Public transport: e-mail: hotel@diterhotel.com Tb-9 www.diterhotel.com Room rates: EURO 55-75 /incl. all taxes, buffet breakfast, internet and parking/ Book online and save 10% on regular prices! Located in the best part of the centre of Sofia. Within walking distance of government and state institutions, major banks and offices, theatres, museums, churches, exhibition halls and other places of cultural interest. 2 suites and 19 rooms /7 singles, 6 twins, 6 doubles/ provide the best facilities for the successful business trip. Electronic key card access, free internet connection, in-room safe, air-conditioner, anti-fire control system, central heating, elevator, direct telephone dial, cable TV, french bed - King-size, double or twin bed, non-allergic pillows, carpets and mattresses, writing desk, fully stocked mini-bar, a special room equipped with a bed, chair and bath-tub for a baby. The bathrooms comprise hair dryer, shower cabin with water massage, panic button, slippers, bathrobe, variety of cosmetics amenities and everything necessary for your stay. Restaurant with 75 seats & Garden with 40 seats offer international cuisine. Conference room-20 seats.
Favorit Hotel
193, Knyaz Boris I Str. h 52 map C0 & + 359 2 931 93 91 Public transport: fax + 359 2 803 50 43 Metro, B-213,214 cell: + 359 885 85 89 85 info@hotelfavorit.bg www.hotelfavorit.bg The newly opened Hotel Favorit is situated on a quiet street in downtown Sofia - close to Lavov Most metro station and at a walking distance from the Central Bus and Railway Stations. The hotel offers a warm and cosy atmosphere in 19 rooms and 5 suites elegantly furnished and comfortable. They come with free Internet, flat-screen cable TV, air conditioning, central heating, private bathroom and a minibar. Stylish restaurant.
34 Accommodation
31, Cherni Vrah Blvd. h 8 map C7 & 02 816 50 00 Public transport: fax: 02 963 42 80 B-94,102; Tm-6, 9 cell: 0885 466 778 e-mail: marketing@hemushotels.com info@hemushotels.com www.hemushotels.com Room rates: EURO 30-76 Located in the heart of Sofia the renovated hotel offers an ideal accommodation base for the corporate and leisure client alike. 210 rooms, 14 small suites “HEMUS” and 6 VIP-apartments. Meeting facilities /two meetingrooms/, business center, casino, night club, bank office, hairdressers’ and beauty saloon, Wi-Fi Internet connection, Sushi Panorama Restaurant, shops. Non-guarded on-site parking.
16, Neofit Rilski Str. & 02 952 30 58, 02 953 01 10
h 27 map B4 Public transport:
fax: 02 951 60 91
Tb-1, 2, 5, 8
& 02 851 19 15 – restaurant e-mail: office@hotel-niky.com Room rates: EURO 35-105 16 Suites, 3 Single and 4 Double rooms. All rooms offer free of charge Internet accesses, cable T.V., direct telephone line, kitchenette (coffee, tea making facilities), room service, air-conditioning, own heating. BBQ restaurant-garden with authentic bulgarian cuisine.
Lion Hotel 60, Kn. Maria Luiza Blvd. h 14 map D1 &/fax: 02 917 84 00 Public transport: www.hotel-lion.net B-11, 78, 85, 305, 413 Room rates: EURO 58-96 Luxury and coziness in the heart of Sofia. 33 rooms each featuring air-conditioning, separate bathroom, cable TV, direct dial telephone, Internet, mini-bar. Pizza - Bar Lion. A combination of reasonable prices, high comfort and accessible stylishness.
Meg-Lozenetz 84, Krum Popov Str. h 26 map C7 & 02 965 19 70 Public transport: fax: 02 965 19 71 Tm-6,9; B-94 & 02 963 35 23 (restaurant) e-mail: reservation@meg-lozenetz.com www.meg-lozenetz.com Room rates: EURO 75-150 It is in the close proximity to the National Palace of Culture and to the shopping area of the “Vitosha” boulevard, just 15 minutes by car from Sofia Airport. The hotel has 17 luxury furnished double and triple rooms. Rooms offer internet connection, AC, mini bar, IDD phone, TV, own heating, room service. Restaurant, international cuisine, newly opened lobby bar with special menu, parking.
25, Nezabravka Str. h 28 map G8 & 02 971 10 24 Public transport: fax: 02 963 20 41B-413; Metro www.parkhotelmoskva.net e-mail: marketing@parkhotelmoskva.net Room rates: EURO 63-83 Located in the greenest part of Sofia – Borisovata Gradina (The Boris’s Garden). The unique park view, a convenient infrastructure and a high quality service make it suitable not only for large scale business events but also for a refreshing stay in the capital of Bulgaria. The hotel offers 354 rooms (572 beds). Three restaurants, congress centre with 7 modern equipped halls and an open-air parking lot are available for the guests.
Rotasar Liditse Str. & Kosta Lulchev Str. h 42 map back & 02 971 45 71 Public transport: e-mail: hotel@rotasar.com B-72; Tb-4,8 rotasar@abv.bg www.rotasar.com Room rates: EURO 30-50 Small modern hotel, situated in a reputable residential area, not far from Tzarigradsko Shosse. 8 suites, 12 rooms, restaurant. Credit cards accepted – Visa, Eurocard, Electron.
Accommodation 35
Hotel Rila Sofia 6, Kaloyan Str.
h 56 map C3
& + 359 2 93 79 100 Fax: + 359 2 988 13 70
Public transport: Tm-10, 12, 18, 20, 22
Cell: + 359 895 490 447
Metro
E-mail: reservations@hotelrila.bg Room rates: EURO 34 – 65 The Rila Hotel is located in the very centre of Sofia close to the Presidency, the Council of Ministers, the Court House, the Bulgarian National Bank, Ivan Vazov
29, Hristo Belchev Str. h 25 map C4 Public transport: & + 359 2 4811400 fax: + 359 2 4811401 Tb-1, 2, 5, 8, 9 reservation@sofiaplacehotel.com www.sofiaplacehotel.com Room rates: EURO 50 – 90 Located in the heart of the city, near the major business and shopping centres as well as cultural monuments Sofia Place Hotel offers 20 modern designed rooms equipped with telephone, mini bar, air-condition, Wi Fi, cable TV and central heating. But our best quality is the staff! Personal attention to every guest is our “speciality”!
National Theatre, the National Art Gallery and the city garden. The guests of the hotel enjoy the convenience of its closeness to the main administrative, financial and trade institutions, provided at competitive prices.
Simona Hotel
Slavyanska Beseda Hotel 3, Slavyanska Str. & 02 935 98 35, 02 935 98 33
h 57 map D4
Serdika Distr. 10, Inzh. Ivan Ivanov Blvd. & +359 2 478 0401 cell: +359 885 259 098 www.en.hotelsimona.com Simona Hotel – quality service at competitive prices.
h 32 map back Public transport: Tm - 11,19, 29 B - 60, 72
Public transport:
fax: +359 2 935 98 32, 981 25 23 Tb-9, Tm-12,18 cell: +359 885 02 02 21
Bus-84, 284
e-mail: reception@slavyanska.com
Metro
www.slavyanska.com Slavyanska Beseda Hotel offers a fantastic location and an ideal accommodation for both business and leisure travelers looking for budget and affordable lodging but who will not sacrifice balanced quality and fair service. Nested in the heart of the financial, business and government city quarters. Comfortable and spacious rooms. All rooms have street view and some balcony. 92 rooms distributed in 5 floors and serviced by one elevator. Some rooms have experienced significant upgrades and renovations but, in all cases, rooms are in proper and correct working condition.
4, Verila Str. h 21 map B5 & 02 952 08 30 Public transport: &/fax: 02 951 57 60 Tm-6; Tb-1, 2, 5, 8, 9 cell: 0886 51 35 82 e-mail: kashtata@gmail.com www.hotelthehouse.com Rooms rates: EURO 31-43 Located in the very heart of Sofia next to the National Palace of Culture. All rooms are designed according to European standards - air-conditioning, separate bath-room, cable TV, Wi-Fi, refrigerator.Equipped with telephone, air-conditioning, cable TV, central heating, free internet access.rooms, wireless internet, cable TV, air-conditioning.
36 Accommodation oUTSKIRTS easyHotel Sofia - LOW COST
108, Aldomirovska Str. h 39 map back /Todor Alexandrov Blvd./ Public transport: & 02 920 16 54 Metro, Tm 3. 8,10 fax: 02 822 82 15 e-mail: enquiries@sofia.easyhotel.com www.easyhotel-sofia.bg, www.easyhotel.com Room rates: EURO 19 - 34 EUReasyHotel Sofia is part of the British BUDJET hotel chain easyHotel. com, which is unique for offering modern facilities and impeccable service at unusually low rates. The brand new hotel is on just 5 minutes walk from the beating heart of central Sofia. All the 57 rooms (48 small, 8 standard, 1 special needs room) are with windows, bathroom, double bed, TV, Wi-Fi, air-conditioning. The earlier you book, the less you pay. Check in-3.00pm; Check Out-10.00am; Check best rates and book at www.easyhotel.com
12, Dragovitsa Str. h 34 map back & 02 944 89 52 Public transport: fax: 02 943 34 71 B-11,305,413,72 e-mail: hotel@madridbg.com 404; Tm-20,22 www.madridbg.com Cosy and quiet family hotel, situated close to the city center and Poduyane railway station. 14 rooms (2 single, 10 double, 2 double deluxe) and a suite. Equipped with telephone, air-conditioning, cable TV, central heating, free internet access.
Sofia has the unique advantage to be surrounded by a green mountain belt. The residential quarters Boyana, Dragalevtsi, Gorna Banya, Knyazhevo, Vladaya and Pancharevo with their closeness to the city can be a very interesting alternative choice for your stay. There you can combine the dynamics of the city with relaxation in beautiful nature and fresh air and all these at quite competitive prices. There are a lot of churches, monasteries and other sightseeings to be visited, which will make your impressions of our Sofia unforgettable.
Casa Boyana Boutique Hotel 23, Ivanitsa Dantchev Str. h 16 map back Boyana District Public transport: & 02 805 08 00 B-63, 64, 107 fax: 02 805 08 05 e-mail: hotel@casaboyana.com www.casaboyana.com Room rates: EURO 75-175 The new hotel is nestled in the most peaceful airy residential area of the Sofia – Boyana, just steps away from the Boyana Church, National History Museum, Best Western Premier Thracia Hotel 10 min. from the city center and 20 min. drive from the Sofia International Airport. 14 luxury rooms and 2 elegant suites with 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.
Pop Bogomil 5, Pop Bogomil Str. h 29 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: hotelpopbogomil@dir.bg Room rates: EURO 30-35
Tzar Asen Family Hotel 68, Tsar Asen Str. h 23 map B5 & 02 954 78 01, 02 851 70 46 Public transport: cell: 0888 751 738 Tb-1, 2, 5, 8 e-mail: tzar_asen@abv.bg www.hotel-tzar-asen.hit.bg A small family hotel near NDK. 5 double rooms, 2 bed
409, Tsar Boris III Blvd. h 37 map back Knyazhevo Distr. Public transport: & 02 957 15 09 B-58,59 fax: 02 857 06 61 cell: 0888 81 89 38 www.hotelamfora.dir.bg Room rates: EURO 20 (Suites: EURO 70) 14 rooms and 3 suites. The Amphora family hotel offers you the opportunity to combine your business engagements in the Bulgarian capital with a nice rest on the slopes of the Vitosha mountain. The hotel is situated on the main road from Sofia to the towns of Knyazhevo and Vladaya and is only 5 min. on foot from the public transportation. At the hotel a guarded parking lot is also available.
Accommodation 37
Boyana District, 5, Sborishte Sq. h 22 map back &/fax: 02 959 05 29 Public transport: www.villa-boyana.com B-107, 64 e-mail: villa.boyana@mail.bg Room rates: EURO 40-50 Located in the middle of Boyana village, a few minutes from “National History Museum”, a few meters away from the world famous “Boyana Church” and only ten minutes by car from the downtown of Sofia. Comfortable well-appointed bedrooms. Special welcomes by request.
Hostels Be My Guest Hostel 13, Ivan Vazov Str. h 44 map D4 & 02 989 50 92, 02 980 21 42 Public transport: fax: 02 989 00 92 Tb-9, 1, 2, 5, 8 cell: 0889 979 749 Tm-12, 18 e-mail: bemyguest@abv.bg www.bemyguesthostel.com Room rates: EURO 10-15 Shared and private rooms ensuite. Located just behind the “Ivan Vazov“National Theater. Easily accessible from the airport by bus number 84 or taxi, and from central bus and railway station by tram number 18 and 12.If you are looking for simple, comfortable and clean accommodation, then this hostel is the place for you.
30, Nikolay V. Gogol Str. h 51 Map G 4 cell: +359 888 897 321 Public transport: guests@trakiahouse.com Metro, B – 72,84 www.trakiahouse.com 213,604; Tb - 4, 5,8 Small & charming guesthouse, located in the city center - 10 minutes from the Cathedral “Al. Nevski”. You will enjoy a cozy atmosphere in art style and feel like at home. Extras: cable TV, free Wi-Fi, fully equipped kitchen. Credit cards accepted – VISA, DC, MC. Other services: rent-a-car, bus tickets, one-day-trips, mountain guide in English and German. Rates: 12-15 EUR / Bed
Apartment Rentals
e-mail: info@aphouse-sofia.com www.aphouse-sofia.com Rates: EURO 100-200 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) Brand new, located in the city center – close to the banks and administrative buildings of the public institutions. It Brand new, located in the city center – close to the banks and administrative buildings of the public institutions. It offers 14 apatments, all equipped with kitchens, direct telephone, Internet access, laundry, dry-cleaning, cable TV, air-conditioning, security guaranteed. Credit cards accepted.
40, Antim I Str. map B2 & +359 2 490 2435 Public transport: cell: +359 879 122 133 Metro, Tm 20,22 e-mail: v@PrimeRentalsBG.com www.PrimeRenalsBG.com Situated in different locations close to Sofia’s main attractions, the cozy and comfortable Prime Rentals in Sofia provide excellent, newly renovated accommodation paired with independence and privacy of your own apartment that combine communicative locality and stylish interior. With a taste of luxury, away from the vanity of the expensive hotels, we are offering you a cozy home environment during your business travel or vacation.
VIP Apartments Sofia 28, Neofit Rilski Str. h 53 map B4 & +359 2 989 59 69 Public transport: cell +359 896 865 800/ 801 Tb 1,2 5,8,9 www.vipapartsofia.com info@vipapartsofia.com VIP Apartments Sofia – book online fully furnished serviced apartments and get a 60-80sq.m. flat for the price of a hotel room. Excellent value for money, homely environment, free Wi-Fi, DVD, cable TV, A/C. Rila Monastery Shuttle, tours and transfers provided.
Real Estate Agencies
Anima-M Ltd. 4, Golo Bardo Str. Lozenets Distr. & 02 960 28 88 fax: 02 960 28 37
h 46 map back Public transport: Tm-9
75, Patriarh Evtimiy Blvd. map B5 & 02 852 06 53, &/fax: 02 953 17 66 cell: 0888 839 516 anima_m@realtor.bg;office@anima-mbg.com www.anima-mbg.com
38 bars & restaurants
Este Restaurant
Este’s philosophy is highly influenced by cuisine, and still the interior and setting are not to be left behind, as they are also part of the key to inviting our guests into style and class. Every single
tents, surrounded by attractive flora and fairy fountain’s murmuring water. Dimitar Damyanov’s personal trend is expressed in preparing food in an innovative, fascinating and healthy way by select-
piece of interior has been carefully chosen and made by world’s top producers and architects, so that a restaurant of such rank could have the perfect final touch. This sophisticated scene is complemented by a colourful summer garden, where each guest could enjoy the romance and cosiness of private
ing top quality products from all over the world and blending those with local herbs and fresh wildgrowing spices. His remarkable creativity, garnished with years of experience, astonishes every customer, tasting classic dishes in a non-conventional mixture sealed by his unique signature. An abounding list of various wines is at disposal of customers, each bottle being stored in adequate premises at particular rate of humidity and temperature. Quality service in Este lies in the grounds of the restaurant’s conception and philosophy.
bars & restaurants 39
Taste the Difference!
3A, Nikolay Haytov Str.
Tel. +359886 700 269, www.este-restaurant.com
40 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
Local and International RESTAURANT AQUARIUM Continental Plaza Aquarium
s
17, Denkoglu Str. (map B3) For reservations: cell: 0882 484 599 www.restorantaquarium.com Aquarium Restaurant is designed in an unusual and not very typical for Sofia, style, with very interesting interior solutions. This unique design is combined with diverse choice of foods from the Mediterranean and European cuisine. Dishes are prepared from high quality fresh products, following the rules of most elaborate culinary traditions. You will have the opportunity to enjoy a variety of salads, fish, squids, meats and desserts prepared by our chefs. Our sophisticated dishes will be a real pleasure for you and your friends.
Concept
s
12, Ivan Vazov Str. (map D4) cell: 0893 414 412 & 02 981 60 80 www.conceptrestaurant.bg Credit cards: accepted
Plana Restaurant
ss
Restaurant & Sushi Bar
(map B6) National Palace of Culture-PRONO / 1, Bulgaria Square Open: 11.00-24.00 For reservations: 02 951 54 30 / 0882 999 902 E-mail:office@continentalplaza-bg.com www.continentalplaza-bg.com Top Center, a beautiful Garden Credit cards: accepted
Sky Plaza
ss
Restaurant - Panorama
(map B6) National Palace of Culture, 1 Bulgaria Square, floor 8 Open:11.00-24.00 For reservations: 02 916 62 01 / 0888 313 171 E-mail: office@skyplaza-bg.com www.skyplaza-bg.com The best View in Sofia Credit cards: accepted
The House
ss
4, Verila Str. (map B5) & 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.
s
85, Inzh. Ivan Ivanov Blvd. & +359 2 920 03 90 cell: +359 2 920 08 65 www.hotelplana.com The restaurant has cozy atmosphere, excellent service and varied cuisine. The garden, with its freshness and exotic is a perfect place for a nice lunch or dinner, business meetings and organization of cocktails.
Bar & Dining Club of Architect
11, Krakra Str. (map F4) ss Open: 12.00-24.00 cell: 0888 880 979 Offers great variety of European cuisine: interest salad, dishes, desserts & rich list of wine. Summer & winter garden: 110 seats Credit cards: accepted
bars & restaurants 41
42 bars & restaurants This trendy split-level setting, accented by turn-of-thecentury posters attracts young crowd. Pretty good food at affordable prices.
Beerhouse www.happy.bg www.dostavka.happy.bg 0700 19 000 145, G. S. Rakovski Str. (map D4) cell: 0888 181 071
s
Die alte Lampe
4, Sveta Nedelya Sq. (map C3) cell: 0888 181 070 Mladost 3 Distr., Complex Asko Denitsa (map back) cell: 0888 181 072 Mall of Sofia, floor 3 (map A2) cell: 0886 666 029 Bakston Distr., 53,Todor Kableshkov Blvd. (map back) cell: 0884 990 914 36, Bogatitsa Str. (map B9) cell: 0888 181 068
6, Jawaharlal Nehru Blvd. cell: 0884 805050
s
2, Bitolya Str. (map back) cell: 0895 774 565 0896 895 341 www.lacubanita.bg Open: 08.00-02.00
Motto
Niky Beerhouse
s
16, Neofit Rilski Str. (map B4) & 02 851 19 15 Open: 12.00-24.00 A real green paradise in the center of Sofia. A great variety of Bulgarian cuisine, wines and draft beers. Perfect place for any occasion.
12-14, P.Slaveykov Blvd. cell: 0884 990 919
La Cubanita
ss
2, Kotel Str. (map A8) & 02 964 03 86 cell: 0885 63 53 23 Open: 11.00-24.00 www.fenerite.com All credit cards accepted.
Pri Kmeta /Mayor’s pub/
s
3, Parizh Str. (map E3) & 02 981 33 99 Open: 11.30-04.00 www.prikmeta.com Own Brewing Systems.
Bistro ss
18, Aksakov Str. (map E4) & 02 987 27 23 Open: 09.00-02.00 The retro-chic interior design is perfectly complimented by the right mood-setting music. Variety of cocktails and fine cuisine. Make a reservation.
Flo cafe
ss
Flocafe Lounge Bar & Restaurant Sofia 3, Sveta Nedelya Sq. (map C3) & 02 950 66 45 www.flocafe.bg Flocafe Lounge Bar & Restaurant Radinovo 119 km, Trakia highway
Olive’s 12, Graf Ignatiev Str. (map C4) & 02 986 09 02 75, Vasil Levski Blvd. (map E4) cell: 0885 654 837 Open: 10.00-24.00 www.olives.bg
ss
& 02 31 88 32 08 115, Tsarigradsko Shose Blvd., The Mall & 02 878 78 14 When you really love something, you never get tired of doing it. This is exactly what we do, since we created our first Flocafe store. We never stop trying to offer the
bars & restaurants 43
44 bars & restaurants best place to be, throughout the day. You can enjoy every moment with your friends, in a relaxing and warm atmosphere, with the friendliest of service, the variety of tastes and products and above all, the best coffee in town.
40, Pozitano Str. (map B3)
Welcome to Flocafe!
& 02 471 65 77
s
cell: 0894 312 131
Bulgarian
Open: 10.00 - 02.00 Tavern in the heart of Sofia, where you can enjoy traditional Bulgarian dishes to indulge in bit atmosphere of the background of our folk music. Here you will found comfort, excellent menu and first class service.
71, Dondukov Blvd. (map D3)
Pod Lipite /Under the Linden-Trees/
& 02 843 54 19, cell: 0887 45 50 50
Lozenets Distr. (map E7)
www.restaurant.bulgary.bg
1, Elin Pelin Str.
Open: 12.00-24.00
& 02 866 50 53
Bulgary
ss
One of the most authentic Bulgarian restaurants offers a unique ambience of original
pho-
tographs and paintings documenting Bulgarian history. Culinary temptations for every palate and substantial wine list. Beautiful summer garden.
Grozd
ss
21, Tsar Osvoboditel Blvd. (map F4)
ss
02 866 50 59 Open: 12.00-01.00 www.podlipitebg.com Should you wish to combine an all-in-one tasting of typical Bulgarian dishes and sensing the artistic spirit of Old Sofia, book a table at this place. An authentic folklore programme every evening.
& 02 944 39 15 cell: 0888 609 602 Open: 11.30-24.00 The fairly small, but emblematic restaurant has been in
Pri Yafata
that exact spot for 10 years now. An extensive menu of
29, Kn. Al. Dondukov Blvd. (map E2)
hearty food to suit all tastes.
& 02 980 02 50
ss
Open: 10.00-24.00
Manastirska Magernitsa
s
The menu is various – from the traditional Bulgarian
67, Han Asparuh Str. (map C5)
cuisine to the most equivalent specialties from the
& 02 980 38 83, 980 33 03
world culinary.
Cell: 0899 949 400 Open: 11.00 - 24.00 “Manastirska Magernitsa” Restaurant offers traditional Bulgarian dishes with great taste. There you will find a variety of salads, dishes, delicious meats and other food, prepared on embers using special home recipes. By combining modern facilities with authentic traditions, meeting all European standards, restaurant “Manastirska Magernitsa” has become a favorite place for relaxing and eating quality traditional Bulgarian food.
21, Tsar Osvoboditel Blvd. Phone: 02 944 39 15 02 946 34 90 Typical Bulgarian Cuisine Open: 11.30 - 24.00 Seven days a week
bars & restaurants 45
46 bars & restaurants Fast Food
Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) s KFC Garibaldi Garibaldi Sq., 2, Angel Kanchev Str. KFC Stamboliyski 28, Alexandar Stamboliyski Blvd. KFC Lavov Most Lavov Most Sq., 172, Slivnitsa Blvd. KFC Lyulin Lyulin 7 area, Dzhavaharlal Neru Blvd. KFC CCS Arsenalski Blvd., City Center Sofia, 3 fl. KFC Arena Mladost Business Park, Mladost 4 area, 2 fl. /food court/ KFC Saharov Mladost 1 area, 25, Andrey Saharov Blvd. KFC Serdika Center 48, Sitnyakovo Blvd., Serdika Center, 2 fl. KFC The Mall 115, Tsarigradsko Shose Blvd., The Mall, food court www.kfc.bg
100, James Bourchier Blvd. (map C8) ss (Kempinski Hotel Zografski Sofia) cell: 0882 999 001 www.captaincook.bg Open: 11.00-24.00 An unique approach to the modern fish-orientated cuisine.
Teacher Ivan’s House
ss
Lozenets Distr. (map D9, California Hotel) 30, Bigla Str. & 02 962 55 42 Open: 12.00-24.00 Cozy, old fashioned, Bulgarian atmosphere, a rich variety of Black Sea fish: scad, baby blue fish, blue fish, turbot, gar fish (our own catch), as well as a choice of Mediterranean Sea fish. Delicious national dishes. Open fire place for further coziness. All major credit cards accepted.
French
McDonald’s 69, W. Gladston Str. (Slaveykov Sq.) (map C4) cell: 0884 000 307 Open: 07.00-23.00 23, Knyaginya Maria Luisa Blvd. (map C2) cell: 0884 000 302 Open: 07.00-23.30 cell: 0884 000 302 1, Bulgaria Blvd. (map C6) cell: 0884 000 305 Open: 00.00-24.00
78, Tsar Simeon Str. (map D2) ss & 02 983 14 17 cell: 0887 52 33 76 The oldest french restaurant Provides a comfortable yet “familiale” atmosphere, always welcoming and always friendly. French food, French mood. Closed for lunch Saturday. Sundays off. Dinner reservation necessary. Offers lunch menu.
Fish Restaurant
Greek
Barbados
Kumbare
34A, Gen. E. I. Totleben Blvd. (map A4) s (in Hotel Shipka building) & 02 954 12 34 e-mail: reservation@barbados-bg.com www.barbados-bg.com A round bar in the middle of the main hall is the natural centre of aquatic décor. The restaurant’s calling cards – “Good to the last fish” forecasts the meal.
14, Saborna Str. (map C3) & 02 981 17 94 Open: 11.00-24.00 www.kumbare.com This Mediterranean gem in the heart of Sofia serves wonderful, traditional favorites. Widely regarded as one of the city’s best places for Greek cuisine, tends to get packed, so it’s best to show up early.
ss
bars & restaurants 47
Magazine “Tourism & Recreation” presented its annual awards in the field of tourism. Captain Cook restaurant was awarded the Gold Prize Best restaurant for 2012. The award was given by Vitan Ivanov, Chairman of the Sofia tourist region. It was received by the Marketing Director of “Happy” and “Captain Cook” Mila Zhivkova.
48 bars & restaurants Korean
Kohinoor
s
Korean Restaurant YUN
s
Izgrev Distr.
3, Han Asparuh Str. (map C5) Reservations & Deliveries: cell: 0882 532 541 Opening hours: Monday - Friday: 12.00 - 22.30 Saturday: 17.00 - 22.30
34, Elemag Str. (map G9) & 02 963 03 65 Open: Every day 12.00 -11.00 Karaoke with Korean, Japanese and English music. Reservations after 6.00pm Is one of the few places in Sofia where you will
Italian
find authentic Korean food, setting and ambience. Everything here is redolent of the exotic East, from the genuine Korean products, vegetables and fruits to the sauces and spices imported from Korea.
Japanese 56, Bigla Str., Lozenets Distr. (map E9) ss & 02 962 32 75 Cell: +359 89 550 06 06 Open: 11.00-22.00 5, Lachezar Stanchev Str., Dianabad Distr. (map back) Sopharma Business Towers & 02 967 66 21 Cell: +359 89 550 06 05 Open: 08.00-24.00 www.lapastaria.net Fresh pasta, pizza, seafood, home-made desserts - You can taste all these dishes with a delight when visiting our Italian restaurants La Pastaria. We have gathered all the important ingredients for a class and successful restaurant- the comfort, the polite and discreet service, the class wines, the home-made pasta and desserts, the tasteful dishes, the light and unobtrusive music. We are not just cooking a food, we are creating a taste, a vision of every dish with love and pleasure. That’s why the food prepared in La Pastaria is ... an emotion! La Pastaria‌ where the food is emotion!
La Vitta e Bella
ss
6, Stara Planina Str. (map E2, Best Western Plus City Hotel Sofia) & 02 989 70 07 Open: 12.00 - 23.00 The interior and lyrical Mediterranean music transports you under a climbing vine in a typical Sicilian courtyard. The food prepared here is simple, nourishing and tasty, in the best traditions of Italian cooking. Friday&Saturday live music.
96, G. S. Rakovski Str. (map D3)
ss
cell: 0882 999 012 The Mall, 115, Tsarigradsko Shose Blvd. (map back) cell: 0882 999 013 100, James Bourchier Blvd.(map C8) Kempinski Hotel Zografski Sofia cell: 0884 80 40 40 www.happysushi.bg www.sushi.happy.bg, 0700 19190
Outskirts
ss Dragalevtsi District (map back) & 02 967 10 58, fax: 02 967 50 07 Open: 12.00-24.00 www.vodenitzata.com One of the top ranked restaurants due to its magnificent scenery. During the winter months 2 fireplaces 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.
bars & restaurants 49
50 bars & restaurants Lozenets Distr. 38 a, Cherni Vrah Blvd. 02 868 83 78 0888 297 457 3, Verila Str. / Vitosha Blvd. opposite NDK/
Pancharevo District (map back) 83, Samokovsko Shose Str. & 02 992 11 11; Open: 12.00-24.00 Situated on the very shore of the Pancharevo lake. 2 halls and splendid garden, whose Mediterranean style and natural beauty make the atmosphere really romantic. Seafood delights, as well as a rich collection of selected beverage.
Pizza
Pizza & Grill
s
02 988 82 58 0888 297 454
53, Vasil Levski Blvd. 02 988 20 24 0888 297 454 Home delivery:
0700 44 777
Only with us pizzas from original Italian receipes.
Turkish
1, Bulgaria Sq. (map B6) NDK, opposite Lumier cinema & bTV Cell: 0888 660 404 Open: Monday - Sunday: 10.00 - 22.30
Mamma Mia
s
1, Shipka Str. (map E3, behind Alexander Nevski Cathedral) & 02 988 55 05 cell: 0879 11 33 44 Open: 08.00-24.00 Home delivery: 0700 133 44 39 Tsar Ivan Shishman Str. (map D4, behind Sv. Sedmochislenitsi Church) & 02 981 27 27 Home delivery: 0700 133 44 Strelbishte Distr. 19-21, Dede Agach Str. (map back) & 02 958 61 06 Open: 10.00-24.00 Home delivery: 0700 133 44
ss 90, Bukston Blvd. (map back) & 02 855 11 00 Cell: 0878 155070 Open: 10:00-24:00 www.turquoise.bg Two halls inside and a summer garden, own parking.
Borisova gradina, National Tennis Center cell: 0885 148 504 Open: 09.00-24.00 Home delivery: 0700 133 44 www.mammamia.bg Credit cards accepted.
365 Bar food music 1, Shipka Str. (map E3, behind Alexander Nevski Cathedral)
34, Uri Venelin Str. (map E5) ss For reservations: & 02 989 12 12 Cell: 0896 79 49 62 www.tmturkishrestaurant.com T&M restaurant has been serving turkish traditional food in a historical atmosphere at the center of Sofia since 2000. We introduce delicious tastes of fabulous turkish cuisine with the best service without any compromise of our quality. We provide 100% customer satisfaction with our experienced staff and Turkish hospitality.
s
Situated at the foot of the Vitosha Mountains, TURQUOISE is here to welcome you with the famous Turkish hospitality. Delicious and authentic Turkish cuisine in a cozy and relaxing atmosphere and all this combined with excellent service – it’s everything that you have dreamt for. Come and be our guests, but don’t forget to make a reservation – we get easily full!
bars & restaurants 51
52 entertainment
The Passionate Dance of David Pérez in the Flamenco Show PUNTAL David Pérez - one of the most prominent flamenco dancers and choreographers will have his first appearance on the Bulgarian stage on March, 9 th in Sofia Live Club. His show PUNTAL will starts at 20:00. PUNTAL is a performance that arises from simplicity, necessity and the deepest feelings of an artist. It avoids any reason or dramaturgy. The essence of this performance is the expression of personal feelings, feelings that bring inspiration to the artist. It is this specific sensitivity that characterizes him and distincts him from others. It all starts from an accumulation of emotions arisen from the deepest core of the Arte Flamenco. From his lyrics. From his expressions. From his movements. From his lamentations. The vocals, the dance and the guitar. Three aspects combined in one context through the vulnerablilty of the soul. These three pillars (PUNTALES) support the essence of David Pérez’ dancing. The voice, which affects all his senses. The guitar, which brings his body to life. And the dance, his language, which allows him to maximally display his expressive talent.
PUNTAL exhales a classic approach. It has the roots of Flamenco as a starting point, and adding to that a traditional structure. The three components on which Flamenco supports are ever present on stage. Each of the representative “Palos” of Flamenco are treated and rightfully praised. David Pérez is a technically refined and stylish flamenco dancer. Solid, competent and down to earth… or to a wooden stage in his case. David Pérez is a technically refined and stylish flamenco dancer. Solid, competent and down to earth… or to a wooden stage in his case. Tickets for the show PUNTAL on http://ticketplus.bg For the flamenco aficionados in Sofia David Pérez will give courses during the whole week 5-10.03. For additional info: http://flamencobg.com
www.galleryseasons.com
entertainment 53
54 entertainment bARS & cLUBS Bar Road 66 2, Marko Balabanov Str. (map A3) cell: 0887 222 028 Facebook: Bar Road 66 Strong whiskey, scent of wood and adrenalin lifting rock – that is what wait for you in the new Bar Road
Candy Club 100, James Bourchier Blvd. (Kempinski Hotel Zografski Sofia) cell: 0884 706 060
66, inspired from the legendary american highway. The club is at the center of Sofia and it’s a binding place for true fans - for those who listen blues and
Casinos
rock and recognize it not only as a music, but as a
Princess Sofia
mode of life.
131, Kn. Maria Luiza Blvd. (map C0)
Comlex Golden Queen
(Sofia Princess Hotel)
88 A, Pop Gruyu Str. (map back) Cell: 0878 11 11 04
& 02 933 88 88
www.goldenqueen.bg
Princess Rodina
Golden Queen is a celebration of beauty, romanti-
8, Gen. totleben Blvd.
cism and artisticity in Sofia. A masterpiece of archi-
& 02 953 25 32
tecture. A sensual merger of the classical elegance
Viva Casino
of Versailles with the vibrant energy of Las Vegas. Open: 00.00-24.00
Sheraton Sofia Hotel Balkan (map C3) & 02 981 57 47, 02 986 35 01
Maraia
www.groupviva.com
Evlogiy and Hristo Georgievi Blvd.
cell: 0893 729 190
& Hristo Smirnenski Blvd. (map D6) & 02 865 85 05
Erotic bar
Open: 00.00-24.00
Angels
www.barmaraia.com This trendy place is highly popular with Sofia’s young and business elite.
20, Kn. Maria Luisa Blvd. GSM: 0876 824 724, 0885 37 37 07 Inside the Gloria Palace Hotel
ESCORT SERVICES Enigma agency 24, Vrabcha Str. & 02 944 50 70
Tell Me... 12, Ivan Vazov Str.
cell: 0898 845 571, 0887 800 184
Takes Reservations - Phone: 087 999 3216
Hight - CLASS - Girls
Drinks, snacks and very good music
cell: 0887 670 366, 0876 398 552
Mon - Sat: 22.00 - 4.00
www.hight-class-girls.com
(map C8)
entertainment 55
56 entertainment Art Shops
Cosmetics
Antique shop & Gallery ARTSTORY 34, Solunska Str. cell: +359 886 637 087 Mon - Sun: 10.00 - 19.00 petkomanchev@yahoo.com
Welcome to my antiqueshop. We offer of paintings, watches, medals, coins, porcelain, jewellery, militaria, toys, glass.
Art Shops The Bird
27, Moskovska Str. /Entrance from G. S. Rakovski Str./ 24, Krakra Str. Open: Mon – Fri 10.00 – 20.00, Sat – Sun 11.00 – 19.00 cell: 0897 977 157 www.facebook.com/Ptica.bg Offering paintings, ceramics, dolls, jewellery, candles, making frames, presents package...
Antique Shop 4, Vitosha Blvd.
At the corner of Vitosha Blvd. and Alabin Str.
Books & Antiques Center
23, Solunska Str. At the corner of Vitosha Blvd. and Solunska Str. cell: +359 878 601 806 ypaaa@mail.bg gmoantiques.com
Antique Art France 1, Vassil Levski Blvd. & 02 987 30 25 e-mail: antikartfrance@yahoo.com Antique Art France is a French antiquarian shop for antique French furniture and accessories. The shop offers a rich variety of antique mirrors, sets, candlesticks, silver cutlery, gas and electrified lamps, antique chandeliers and many other items.
Art shop Souvenirs & Bulgarian rose 50, Alabin Str. /after Mc Donalds/ cell: 0888 504 866 Mon - Fri: 10.00 - 19.30 Sat - Sun: 11.00 - 18.00
The shop offers various cosmetics with Bulgarian rose – aromatherapy oils, bath salts, candles. Here you can find traditional souvenirs, embroidery and national costumes – hand-made, icons, paintings, gifts of wood, ceramics, dolls etc.
DR. NONA – HEALTH & BEAUTY FROM DEAD SEA! The Dead Sea is the richest source of minerals and microelements that are in the water and the mineral mud. “Dr. Nona Company” use those minerals to produce high quality products - cosmetic, food supplements and perfumery. For orders: marianamitova.drnona@abv.bg Cell: 0879 171 779 www.drnona-bg.alle.bg
MALLS The Mall 115, Tsarigradsko Shose Blvd. Situated on 66,000 square metres THE MALL is the largest shopping centre in Bulgaria with 178 stores featuring international brands, a 9000 sq meters Carrefour hypermarket, the ten screen Arena Cinema, various entertainment venues, a fitness centre, restaurants and cafes. This combination of world famous brands, services and places of recreation and entertainment makes THE MALL an exciting place to shop.
Shops
Over 25,000 appliances and accessories for home, office and car • Free Delivery • Free parking • Ability to purchase on credit
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) & 02 921 00 92 Nadezhda, near overpass Nadezhda & 02 803 59 99 Serdika Mall - 48, Sitnyakovo Blvd., 1st floor & 02 892 79 27 The Mall - 115, Tsarigradsko Shose Blvd., Ground Floor & 02 807 64 64 Bulgaria Mall - 69, Bulgaria Blvd. & 02 903 59 59
entertainment 57
58 CULTURE Culture & spirit Situated on the crossroads between Asia and Europe, the present-day Bulgarian territory has been inhabited for time immemorial. Bulgarians, Thracians and Slavs have left a vivid trace in the world cultural treasury. It was here, at the magical Rhodopi Mountains, that Orpheus – the angel-voiced mythical poet and musician, considered the greatest poets ever, lived in Antiquity. Each corner of Bulgaria has preserved inimitable high-valued artistic etalons of material and spiritual culture. Bulgarian folklore with its fascinating music, national dance and picturesque folk costumes is widely known and appreciated throughout the world. The renowned female ensemble of “Mystery of Bulgarian voices� perform traditional folk songs. In later years, Bulgarian culture has become proud of its achievements in the realms of literature, arts, music and architecture. Boris Hristov, Nikolay Gyaurov, Rayna Kabaivanska, and Anna Tomova-Sintova are among the biggest names in world opera. Vladimir Dimitrov-Maystora, Zlatyu Boyadzhiev, Nikola Manev, Stoyan Venev, Dimitar Kazakov, Georgi Bozhilov, Gredi Assa, and Christo are some of the names of world-renowned Bulgarian artists. In the Culture Section you will find updated information about the most interesting exhibition and concert shows in the capital, a program for the larger cultural centres, details on museums and galleries in Sofia.
CULTURE 59
ALADIN - musical for children and adults in National Music & Ballet Center - Sofia The fairytale is alive and more beautiful than ever. ALADIN - the musical that can make your three wishes come true – to believe, to fly and to love... Become part of the magic and enjoy it!
60 CULTURE Galleries
37, Tsar Samuil Str. (map B4) cell: 0898 669 120 Mon – Fri: 10.00 - 19.00 Sat: 11.00 - 18.00 www.facebook.com/AbsintheAquarelleGallery
Paris Gallery 47, Tsar Samuil Str. (map B3) & +359 2 980 80 93 cell: +359 89 850 55 31 www.gallery-paris.com www.icons-bg.com, Mon - Fri: 11.00 - 19.00, Sat: 11.00 - 14.00
Classica Gallery-Museum 32, Yuriy Venelin Str. (map E5) & 02 988 24 72 classica.gallery@gmail.com www.classica.art.bg Sun – Mon: 12.00 - 20.00
A, Krakra Str. (map F3) & 946 30 56 Mon – Fri: 10.00 - 19.00 www.galleryseasons.com e-mail: office@galleryseasons.com
Snezhana Gallery 100, G.S. Rakovski Str. (map D3) /Corner with Aksakov Str./ & + 359 2 980 62 77 cell: + 359 89 662 11 12 www.GalleryCrystal.com contact@gallerycrystal.com Mon – Fri: 10.30 - 18.30, Sat: 11.00 - 15.00 Fine Art and Antiques, Collectables, Antique Furniture
Art Gallery Europe 3, Lege Str. (map C3) cell: 0894 34 17 24 www.artgalleryeurope.eu artdaniela.eu@gmail.com Mon – Sat: 11.00 - 19.00
30, Denkoglu Str. (map C4) cell: 0899 632 307 www.snegana.com Every day: 11.00 - 22.00
The Gallery 8, Tsar Osvoboditel Blvd. (map D3) cell: +359 877 975 000 +359 877 972 000 www.valerart.com www.facebook.com/thegalleryinsofia Mon - Sun: 10.00 - 19.00
Finesse Gallery 17, Hristo Belchev Str. (map C4) & 02 986 25 90 cell: 0887 853 285 Tue – Sat: 11.00 - 19.00 gallery.finesse@email.bg mtabakova@altacommerce.com Nomad African Art Gallery
Nomad Gallery 2, 6-ti septemvri Str. (map D4) cell: +359 882 487 308 www.galerianomad.bg www.facebook.com/GaleriaNomad Wed – Fri: 14.00 - 19.00 Sat: 11.00 - 18.00, Sun: 12.00 - 16.00
Art Gallery Zerliev 17, Parchevich Str. (map B4) /between Vitosha Blvd. & Hristo Botev Blvd./ cell: 0878 300 777 e-mail: zerliev@abv.bg www.zerliev.com
1908 Gallery 1, Angel Kanchev Str. (map C4) cell: 0898 646 490 Tue – Sat: 12.00 - 19.00 1908gallery@gmail.com facebook 1908.bg
CULTURE 61 Palette 1908 Gallery From 12th till 30th March – Exhibition by Dimitar Tasev - Posters
Absinthe Aquarelle Gallery From 1st till 23rd March – Scent of a Woman Exhibition by Alexander Telalim The Woman – inconstant, free and gentle as water, colourful and transparent, exhilarating and exciting – you will find a real Poetry and Magic in watercolors of Angelina Angelova, Alexander Telalim, Atanas Matsurev and Kiril Bozhkov!
1908 Gallery
Classica Gallery-Museum From 4th till 14th March - Exhibition by Maria Adamopulu - Plastics From 15th till 30th March - Exhibition by Ingrid Isinova - Paintings
Crystal Gallery Fine Art and Antiques, Collectables, Antique Furniture
Europe Gallery Permanent original exhibition by contemporary Bulgarian artists
Absient Gallery
Nomad Gallery Besides diverse bronze, leather and wooden artwork, Nomad Gallery offers unique hand-made jewelry and other treasures from West Africa and the Sahelian semi-desert
Paris Gallery From 1st till 31st March - Common exhibition
Seasons Gallery From 19th March till 2nd April – Exhibition by Rumen Manolov – Spaces
Sezoni Gallery
The Gallery Permanent original exhibition by contemporary Bulgarian artists
Vaska Emanuilova Gallery From 18th December 2012 till 3rd March 2013 – About the monuments and people
Zerliev Art Gallery Expressive original paintings by Blagovest Zerliev
The Gallery
62 CULTURE Exhibitions The Gallery 8, Tsar Osvoboditel Blvd. cell: +359 877 975 000 +359 877 972 000 www.valerart.com www.facebook.com/thegalleryinsofia Mon - Sun: 10.00 - 19.00 The Gallery is focusing the attention of the wide audience on the contemporary art, by giving an opportunity to the authors with approved reputation, to realize their own ideas dictated by the sensation of their inner artistic world. Unique and spontaneously, the authors send elegantly provocation to the connoisseurs, prompting them to feel them and to interpret their work in their own way. The gallery actively takes part in the artistic and cultural market of art,in Bulgaria as the main accent still remain the free choice of the artists from different spheres of the art, to submit themselves both in the permanent exposition of the gallery and by the one-man shows. The palette of exquisite pictures and the collection from plastic arts are present at different levels but they are equally charming, telling its story in unforgettable and completely approachable way.
Workshops SNEZHANA Gallery welcomes you in to the magic RADI’S world /Radostina Draganova/. She will help you to create amazing things on your own. All the workshops are by appointment. Please call us first at 0885 107 190 or write on galeriasnejana@moyat.net Programme March: Angels - 9th, 16.00h; Music instruments - 10th, 14.00h; Fairy dolls - 23rd, 16.00h; Little animals - 24th, 14.00h Entrance - 12 leva For 2 kids - 18 leva For adults - 20 leva
Concerts Yuri Bashmet in Sofia for his 60 anniversary
World famous Russian violist and conductor Yuri Bashmet arrives in Sofia to celebrate his 60th anniversary with his Bulgarian friends and colleagues. The event will take place on March 8 in Hall 1 of NDK at 07:00 pm. The concert will feature the Symphony Orchestra and Mixed Choir of the Bulgarian National Radio and it will be conducted by maestro Emil Tabakov. To mark his jubilee Bashmet will play the mystical composition for viola, choir and orchestra Styx by Gia Kancheli, who is also coming for the event. The musical work is going to be played for the first time in Bulgaria. It was particularly composed for the famous violist.
CULTURE 63 Events
Sofia International Film Fest - FROM 7th TO 17th MARCH For 17th year Sofia International Film Festival will gather together in Sofia films, guests, stars, journalists and cinema fans from 7th until 17th March 2013. Featured in Variety’s Top 50 of cinema festivals, the event presents Bulgaria to the world as the host one of the important film festivals in Europe and takes place annually in March. What started as a thematic music film festival, went through 16 previous editions to become the cinema event of the year, bringing the current world cinema trends to the domestic viewers in Bulgaria and the latest in Bulgarian cinema to the rest of the world.
Dance World Cup Qualifying Competition for the First Time in Sofia March, 9th, Nikolay Binev Youth Theater 18,000 competitors. 28 countries. Arguably the greatest all-genre dance competition on the planet. This is the story of the Dance World Cup... DWC Limited as organiser of the Dance World Cup competitions is pleased to invite children, juniors and young adults who are members of private dance schools to compete in our regional, national and world events. On March, 9th in “Nikolay Binev” Youth theatre in Sofia a qualifying competition will be held for the first time. It is organized by “Krasimira Koldamova Ballet Studio” represented by Georgina Dzhendova and “Odette Ballet Studio” by Julia Oleynik and will qualify the winners for the participation in Dance World Cup competition 2013 in Brightn, England. The youth of the world is invited to strive for participation by qualifying through their national dance competition in their countries to attend this special event. For detailed information, please visit: http://www.dwcbulgaria.com/
64 CULTURE Programme
Theatre Bulgarian Army
The plays begin at 19.00 1st – CHRISTENING by Donev 2nd, 13th – DEKAMERON by Bokaco 4th, 16th – NOW OR NEVER by Krasnogorov 6th – SLAVE COMEDY by Tedi Moskov 7th – SCISSORS KILLER by Jordan and Abrams 8th – MUCH ADO ABOUTH NOTHING by Shakespeare 9th, 24th – VRAZHALETS by Kostov – guest theatre Melpomena 10th – THE LEGACY OF A CHASTE WOMANIZER by Anatoliy Krim 11th – GOLEMANOV by Kostov – guest theatre Melpomena 12th – LALUGER by Aleksandar Urumov – monospctacle by Nikolay Urumov 14th, 15th – SEX, DRUGS AND ROCK’N’ROLL by Bogosiyan 17th – A TEACHER’S NOTIONS ABOUT THE FOLK ART by Kamen Donev SLAVE COMEDY by Tedi Moskov
98, Rakovski Str., & 02 987 23 03 www.tba.art.bg facebook.com/armytheatre
19th – ROMEO AND JULIETTE by Shakespeare – Premiere 21st, 22nd, 23rd, 27th – ROMEO AND JULIETTE by Shakespeare 25th – THE NOBLE SPANISH by Moham 26th – THE IPMORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST by Wilde 28th – ANNUAL AWARDS MaksiM and GOLDEN HAMMER 29th – THE IRON CRESSET by Dimitar Talev 30th – NENCHO’S MAGIC – illusion spectacle by Nencho Ilchev, special guest – Liybo Neykov 31st – EVGENIY ONEGIN by Poushkin
SCENE – CLUB 5th 19.30 – FINAL ORDERS by Priestley
Satire Theatre Aleko Konstantinov SCENE SHTASTLIVETSA 1st, 19.30 – ROMAN BATH by Stratiev 2nd, 4th, 29th, 19.30 – SPINACH WITH POTATOES by Z. Egreshi 6th, 14th, 27th, 19.30 - THE INFIDELITY’S BEAUTY by V. Krasnogorov 8th, 25th, 19.30 - CENTURY MINE by Laurence 9th, 21st, 19.30 - ONE MORE TIME FROM BEHIND by Frane 10th, 11th, 17th, 28th, 19.30 – THE HEARTBREAKER /DON JUAN FROM SOHO/ by Marber 12th, 19.30 - NEVER DO IT WITH A LAWYER /CENTRAL PARK WEST/ by Woody Allen 13th, 22nd, 19.30 - DINNER FOR FOOLS by Weber 15th, 19.30 - CRAZY FAMILY by Rey Kuny 16th,19.30 - A SMALL RADIO solo with Maya Novoselska 18th, 30th, 19.30 - LOVE BY SCHEDULE by Mark Kamoletti 19th, 19.30 – FOR GOD – FORBIDDEN! by Mcdonna – guest Theatre Burgas 20th, 19.30 - THE INTRUDER by Weber 23rd, 19.30 - MILD FORM TO SEVERE DEPRESSION by Stratiev
26, Stefan Karadzha Str. & 02 988 10 60 www.satirata.bg 24th, 19.30 - BULGARIAN STORIES solo by M.Kurkinski 31st, 19.30 – ESPIONAGE THROUGH STONE AGE by Volodin – Premiere
KAMERNA SCENE METODI ANDONOV 9th, 23rd, 19.30 - ANDERSEN’S STORIES by Elenov 13th, 19.30 – THE FOLLOWERS OF CONFUCIUS 21st, 19.30 - GARFUNCKEL LOOKING FOR SIMON by Kamenova and Angelov 28th, 19.30 - DEAD PEOPLE by Bulgakov
CULTURE 65 Programme
Youth Theatre Nikolay Binev 8-10, Knyaz Dondukov & 02 939 40 59 cell: 02 988 17 53 www.mlt.bg
Main Stage
LITTLE Stage
2nd, 23rd, 31st, 11.00 – THE SLEEPING BEAUTY 2nd, 19.00 – A STEP FORWARD 5th, 19.00 – MAKBET 6th, 19.00 – AN AIRPORT 7th, 19th, 29th, 19.00 – THE WOLFS HOUR 8th, 20th, 19.00 – BEAUTIFUL BODIES 10th, 11.00 – THE TREASURE ISLAND 12th, 22th, 27th, 19.00 – MISTER BALKANSKI 16th, 24th, 11.00 – LITTLE MOUK 16th, 17.00 – THE DAY OF Forgiveness 17th, 30th, 11.00 – KARLSON 21st, 19.00 – BEYOND THE PRINCIP OF PLEASURE 26th, 19.00 – AWESOME GUYS 28th, 19.00 – THREE SISTERS
1st, 21st, 19.00 – LOVE SONG 5th, 19.00 – TREAT 7th, 15th, 28th, 19.00 – THE CHILDREN OF THE WORLD 9th, 23rd, 19.00 – LOVE AND MONEY 13th, 19.00 – CENTER FOR FORCE LANDING – Premier 14th,19th, 29th, 19.00 – CENTER FOR FORCE LANDING 16th, 19.00 – WALLED 20th, 19.00 – WATHEVER WAS 22nd, 19.00 – NORDOST
National Music & Ballet Center - Sofia 1st, 19.00 – GYPSY BARON – operetta by Strauss 2nd, 16.00 – BULGARIAN FROM OLDEN TIMES – Operetta by Karastoyanov 7th, 19.00 – THE CSARDAS QUEEN 9th, 30th, 16.00 – ALADIN – musical 14th, 19.00 – BAL IN SAVOY – Operetta by Abraham 15th, 19.00 – ONE NGHT IN VENICE – Operetta by Strauss 16th, 16.00 – ZORRO – by the music of Gypsy Kings and J. Cameron 20th, 19.00 – A STORY ABOUT POLY – in memoriam of Poly Kadiyska 21st, 19.00 – THE MERRY WIDOW – Operetta by Lehar 22nd, 19.00 – THE BEAUTIFUL HELENE – Opera buffo by Offenbach
100, Vasil Levski Blvd. & 02 943 19 79 www.musictheatre.bg 28th, 19.00 – THE BAT 29th, 19.00 – ALADIN – musical for children and adults Arabesk Ballet 8th, 19.00 – CARMEN COLLECTION – Premiere 23rd, 19.00 – CARMEN COLLECTION
Theatre Vazrajdane
4, P. R. Slaveykov Sq. & 02 987 24 31 www.theatrevazrajdane.com 1st, 19.00 – LOVE HOLDS by Bafini 2nd, 11.00, 12.30 – SLEEPING BEAUTY by Keva Apostolova after Charles Perrault and Brothers Grimm 3rd, 19.00 – I DON’T KNOW YOU ANY MORE 3rd, 23rd, 11.00, 12.30 – SNOW-WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARVES by Hr. Botev after Brothers Grimm 5th, 19.00 – THE DUEL – by Ivan Vazov 8th, 19.00 – QUARTET FOR TWO by A. Krim 9th, 11.00, 12.30 – GRANDMA’S CAKE by V. Mirchovski 9th, 24th, 19.00 – ALLO ‘ALLO! by J. Lloyd and D. Croft 10th, 11.00 12.30 – DONKEY SKIN after Charles Perrault by Krasimira Metodieva
10th, 11.00 12.30 – DONKEY SKIN after Charles Perrault by Krasimira Metodieva 10th, 19.00 – MOUSETRAP by Agatha Christie 12th, 19.00 – CLOSER by Patrick Marber 15th, 19.00 – THE MISUNDERSTOOD CIVILIZATION by Dobri Voynikov 16th, 30th, 11.00, 12.30 – THE LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD after Charles Perrault by Keva Apostolova 16th, 22nd, 30th, 19.00 – THE LAST FREDDIE MERCURY’S SECRET 17th, 31st, 11.00, 12.30 – MAX AND MORITZ by Hristo Botev after W. Bush 17th, 19.00 – FORMATION OM CONCERT 19th, 19.00 – THE BEAUTY QUEEN OF LEENANE 23rd, 19.00 – SWINDLERS (CON MEN) by Zv. Basic 24th, 11.00, 12.30 – PUSS IN BOOTS after Charles Perrault and Brothers Grimm by Nina Stoycheva 26th, 19.00 – TABOO 28th, 19.00 – THE BLUE ROOM by Sir David Hare 29th, 19.00 – SHERLOCK HOLMES AND A GHOST FOR A COMPANY 31st, 19.00 – THREE TERRIFIED MINIATURES
66 CULTURE Programme
National academy for theatre and film arts Krastyo Sarafov Drama Training Theatre
GRAND HALL Starts at 19.00 h 1st, 13th – GYMNASTICS FOR THE PREGNANT by Zdrava Kamenova 2nd, 5th, 6th, 15th – CRIMINALE FROM THE STONE AGE by Volodin 7th, 19th, 26th – I WISH dance spectacle, idea and choreography Petya Popova 8th, 21st, 26th – CAUCASIAN CHALK CIRCLE by Bertolt Brecht 9th, 14th, 22nd – ILLUSION by Pierre Corneille 12th – THE DISEASE YOUTH by Bruckner 16th, 23rd, 30th – MOON CHILDREN by Michael Weller 20th, 28th – FOREST GHOST by Anton Pavlovich Chekhov 29th – ETERNITY – FREE ENTRY or ODYSSEUS AND STAGE 47 Starts at 19.00 h 1st, 19th – Mr. Colpert by David Gizelman 2nd, 16th – CLASS NIGHT /Margarita Mladenova/ 5th, 13th, 29th – AMERICAN BEAUTY by Alan Ball 6th, 22nd – COUNTRY ANECDOTES by Alexander Vampilov 7th, 12th, 21st – OPAKOMETAMORFOZI by Valeri Petrov 8th, 20th, 26th – UNNATURAL SELECTION author and director Boris Mitkov 15th – THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME 28th – PARALLEL WORLDS TICKETS AVAILABLE AT THE CASH REGISTER OF EDUCATIONAL THEATRE
HALL GURKO 14
108 A, G. S. Rakovski Str., & 02 923 12 85 www.natfiz.bg, www.facebook.com
A 610
Starts at 20.00 h 12th – TWELFTH NIGHT – COMPOSITION by William Shakespeare Starts at 18.30 h 1st – CLASS NIGHT /Aleksandra Hong/ UNDERGROUND HALL /SFUMATO THEATRE/ Starts at 19.00 h 9th, 29th – MARQUISA DE SAD by Uykio Mishima 14th, 21.00 – MARQUISA DE SAD by Uykio Mishima
Puppet training theatre 2nd, 5th, 19th, 11.00 – WHITE FAIRYTALE by Valeri Petrov 7th, 28th, 19.00 – CODENAME: THE LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD by Charles Perrault 9th, 12th, 16th, 23rd, 26th, 30th, 11.00 – ENDLESS DREAMS 14th, 19.00 – ENDLESS DREAMS 19th, 26th,19.00 – THEATRAL EXHIBITION 21st, 19.00 – THE LIGHTS OF THE RAMP
Sofia Puppet Theatre
2nd, 10.30, 12.00 – Botizmeyko 2nd, 10.30, 12.00, 16.30 – Vampire Bride 3rd, 10.30, 12.00 – Mowgli 6th, 19.00 - PUSS IN BOOTS – Premiere 7th, 26th, 19.00 – In-Building 9th, 10.30, 12.00 – The three little pigs 9th, 16.30 – The Story of the Seagull and the Bang of Tomcats 10th, 10.30, 12.00 – Goldy – The Golden Girl 13th, 19.00 – Zhivak 14th, 19.00 – Barrel Tell 16th, 10.30, 12.00 – The Tale of the Elves 16th, 16.30 – In the Moon Room 17th, 10.30, 12.00 – The Tale of the Priest and his Servant Glupan 17th, 16.30 – Opening of the Sofia Theatral Salon - Tale of Wandering King – nomination for performance 19th, 16.30 – Love for the Three Oranges 20th, 10.30 – Love for the Three Oranges 21st, 10.30, 16.30 – The magic flint and steel 23rd, 10.30, 12.00 – The lost key 23rd, 16.30 – Tale of Wandering King 24th, 10.30, 12.00 – Cinderella 26th March, 19.00 – In-Building 28th, 19.00 – Holy 30th, 10.30, 12.00 – Puss in Boots 30th, 16.30 – Pictures from an Exhibition 31st, 10.30, 12.00 – Peter Pan
14, Gen. Gurko Str. - 02 988 54 16 19, Yanko Sakazov - 02 944 14 24 www.sofiapuppet.com
HALL YANKO SAKAZOV 19 2nd, 10.30, 12.00 – The twelve months 3rd, 10.30, 12.00 – The pea 9th, 10.30, 12.00 – One Little Fairytale Town 10th, 10.30, 12.00 – Puss in Boots – Premiere 16th, 10.30, 12.00 – The princesses and the Dragon 17th, 10.30, 12.00 – The Warm Glove 23rd, 10.30, 12.00 – Puss in Boots 24th, 10.30, 12.00 – The three little pigs 30th, 10.30, 12.00 – The Tale of the Elves 31st, 10.30, 12.00 – Aladin Goldy – The Golden Girl
CULTURE 67 Programme
Bulgaria Hall
Sofia Philharmonic Orchestra 1, Aksakov Str. Ticket Office & 02 987 76 56 www.sofiaphilharmonie.bg
3rd,12.00h GALA CONCERT on 3-rd March – National Bulgarian Holiday Under the patronage of Anu Angelov – Minister of Defence of the Republic of Bulgaria With the participation of Sofia Philharmonic Orchestra, Principal Conductor: Martin Panteleev and Representative Guards Brass Band, Principal Conductor: capt.Radi Radev Programme: V.Stoyanov, G.Bizet, P.I.Tchaykovski, J.Brahms, J. Strauss, M.Goleminov, At. Boyadzhiev 5th, 19.00 h Sofia Philharmonic and “Theatre, Opera and Ballet” Association present „The Little Match-Seller” Conductor: Grigor Palikarov; Soloists: Dobrina Ikonomova, Valentina Korchakova, Katerina Tuparova, Penio Pirozov, Alexander Mutafchijski, Ivan Panev New! Promo Family Tickets – please ask Ticket Office 10th, 19.00 h This concert is dedicated to the 70th years of the rescue of Bulgarian Jews Principal Conductor: Martin Panteleev; Soloist: Mario Hossen, violin Programme: L. Bernstein, S. Barber, P. Vladigerov, N. Paganini, J. Williams, J. Jimenez 14th, 19.00 h Subscription Cycle “Musical Masterpieces” – Fourth Concert – under the patronage of Nikolai Mladenov – Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Bulgaria This concert is dedicated to the International Day of Francophonie! Conductor: Amaury du Closel, France; Soloist: Zheni Zaharieva, piano Programme: Claude Debussy, Maurice Ravel, Paul Duka.
17th, 17.00 h Subscription Cycle “Sunday Classic” – Second Concert National Philharmonic Choir “Svetoslav Obretenov” and Chamber Orchestra of Sofia Philharmonic Conductor: Ilia Mihaylov; Soloists: Miglena Pavlova, soprano; Ivaylo Donkov, tenor; Yanko Marinov, orgel and harpsichord Programme: G.F.Handel; A.Vivaldi;J.S.Bach 20th, 19.00 h – Chamber Hall - Quarto Quartet and Atanas Iliev, klarinet Programme: J. Haydn; J.Turina; W.A.Mozart 20th, 19.00 h 30 Years – Love, Don’t Grow Old! – Jubilee Concert of Haigashod Agassyan 21st, 19.00 h Subscription Cycle “Sofia, Culture, Europe” – Fifth Concert FALSTAFF – Giuseppe Verdi (premiere) – 200 years since the birth of Verdi Conductor: Ljubka Biagioni, Germany National Philharmonic Choir “Svetoslav Obretenov”Conductor: Ilia Mihaylov 23rd, 11.00, 12.30 h Sofia Philharmonic Orchestra and Fortissimo Family Horn Tales – Stories for Children and Parents Conductor: Maxim Eshkenazi; Soloist: Krassimir Kostadinov; Actress: Ani Papadopulu 28th, 19.00 h Subscription Cycle “Musical Masterpieces” – Fifth Concert Conductor: Yordan Kamdzhalov, Soloist: Ivan Pavlov, piano Programme: Dimitar Nenov, F. Liszt, M. Mussorgsky
Sofia Opera and Ballet
EVGENIY ONEGIN
1, Vrabcha Str. & 02 987 13 66 www.operasofia.bg 1st, 2nd, 19.00 – TOSCA 9th, 24th, 19.00 – ZORBA THE GREEK 10th, 19.00 – EVGENIY ONEGIN 14th, 19.00 – LADY OF THE CAMELLIAS 15th, 19.00 – DON CARLOS 16th, 19.00 – VILLAGE HONNOR GIANNI SKIKI 21st, 22nd, 19.00 – PRINC IGOR 23rd, 19.00 – LOVE ELIKSIR 28th, 19.00 – TURANDOT 30th, 19.00 – VERTER 31st, 16.00 – VERTER
FOR CHILDREN 1st, 10.00 – CINDERELLA 2nd, 11.00 – CINDERELLA 8th, 10.00 – THE MAGIC FLUTE 9th, 10th, 24th, 11.00 – ALADIN AND THE MAGIC LAMP 14th, 10.00 – ALADIN AND THE MAGIC LAMP 15th, 10.0 – REYNS GODL 16th, 30th, 11.00 – THE LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD 17th, 11.00, 16.00 – THE GOLDEN APPLE 22nd, 10.00 – THE LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD 23rd, 31st, 11.00 – THE MAGIC FLUTE
68 CULTURE Concerts Armin Van Buuren, named number one in the DJ-MAG-Top-100 poll five times, has accepted the invitation of Yalta Club, as he made our country for the very first time an epicentre of his tour, in celebrating the birthday of his ASOT (A State of Trance) radio show. He personally acknowledges that his immense popularity has grown due to his radio show A State of Trance (ASOT), whose listeners have risen to over 20 million. The show is broadcast on over 40 radio stations in 26 countries, as for Bulgaria it has been aired on Radio Nova since the midsummer of 2012. So, on March 8th at the Arena Armeets Sports hall the Bulgarian fans and trance-dance lovers will be able to experience the celebration together with the Dutch DJ mega-star. Kick off 8.00
Spring will bud in 2013 with a concert of the legend Chris Norman on March 22. Also known as a lead vocal of Smokie, Chris Norman made his solo career that ascended him to the top music charts with everyone’s favorite song “Midnight Lady”. Having been widely accepted not only in Europe but also in America, Chris Norman continues to delight his fans. The first destination of the world’s largest touring of the rock legend, in 2013, will be Bulgaria. Fans will be able to hear the most popular songs of the singer like: “Ordinary Heart”, “Sarah You Take My Breath Away”, “Broken Heroes”, “Some Hearts Are Diamonds”, “Give a little love”, “Get it on” and others. The concert will take place on March 22nd, 20.00 in Hall 1 of NDK. DEICIDE, along with a few extreme bands (DESTINITY, KARNAK, SWEETEST DEVILRY and ARVAS) will visit Bulgaria on March 9th, “Metal Katehizis” has learned. The venue is Sofia. R.B.F. Club will host part of “The End Of The Word Tour 2013” tour, as the official information and event details will be announced soon. HELLOWEEN & GAMMA RAY - two power metal legends are teaming up once again as preparing for an invasion of Europe called “Hellish Rock Tour Part II”, that will hit Sofia at full blast on March 15 at Arena Armeets. Kick off 20.00 Fans of both bands still remember their epic concert in
November 2007, part of the first edition of “Hellish Rock Tour”, that was brought to 34 countries in Europe, Asia, North and South America as they played 95 concerts. Here comes the second shock dose of heavy and power metal, and this time the experience will be even more exciting. HELLOWEEN and GAMMA RAY promise loads of surprises and a grand finale, during which both groups will spring up on stage.
CULTURE 69 Museums Archaelogical Museum
Permanent and temporally exhibitions at: Prehistory Hall, Vault, Central Hall, Middle Ages Hall. The famous Vulchitrun gold treasure is among the most precious exhibits in Bulgaria’s oldest museum.
2, Saborna Str. (next to the Bulgarian Nat. Bank) & 02 988 24 06 www.naim.bg Open: Tue–Sun 10.00-17.00 Admission: 10 leva
4, Cherni Vrah Blvd. & 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
Earth and Man National Museum
National Art Gallery The National Art Gallery is housed in the former Prince’s Palace at the Kniaz Alexander Battenberg Square in the capital. Today it is in possession of the largest collection of pictorial art in the country.
1, Knyaz Al. Batenberg Sq. & 02 980 00 93 www.nationalartgallerybg.org Open: Tue-Sun 10.00-18.00 Admission: 6 leva
Boyana, 16, Vitoshko Lale Str. (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 Open: Mon–Sun 09.30-18.00 Amazing recent Thracian gold discoveries. Admission: 10 leva
National History Museum
National Gallery for Foreign Art
The Gallery is unique with the character of its collection – the art of distant lands, of old and new ages coexists with the modern European tendencies, with traditional and religious pictorial principles in the chronological span of a millennium.
Sofia City Art Gallery The gallery possesses some of the richest collections in Bulgaria: 8000 works of art by Bulgarian artists from the end of the 19th century till present.
National Museum of Natural History - BAS The richest museum of natural history on the Balkans. Over a million specimens of animals, plants and minerals.
National Military - History Museum The richest Bulgarian state collections of weapons, uniforms, insignia, flags, military seals, photographs.
1, Sv. Al. Nevski Sq./ 19-ti Fevruari Str. & 02 980 72 62, 02 988 49 22 www.foreignartmuseum.bg Open: Wed–Mon 11.00-18.30 Admission: 6 leva; Last Mon of Month - Free Entrance 1, Gen. Y. V. Gurko Str. (Entr. from Kn. Al. Batenberg Str.) & 02 987 21 81, www.sghg.bg Open: Tue–Sat 10.00-19.00 Sun 11.00-18.00 Free Entrance 1, Tsar Osvoboditel Blvd. (near the Russian Church) www.nmnhs.com & 02 987 41 95 Open: Mon–Sun 10.00-18.00 Admission: 4 leva 92, Cherkovna Str. & 02 2 946 18 05 mail: m.museum@bol.bg www.militarymuseum.bg Open: Wed-Sun: 10.00-18.00
Museum of the Socialist Art
Izgrev Distr. 7, Lachezar Stanchev Str. & 02 902 18 02 www.nationalartgallerybg.org Open: 10.00-17.30
National Polytechnic Museum
66, Opalchenska Str. & 02 931 80 18 Open: Mon-Fri: 09.00-17.00
is the first institution in Bulgaria in order to collect, preserve and present examples of Bulgarian art created during the period 1944 - 1989, the thematically related to the era of socialism.
Permanent expositions: watches, safety lamps, surveying equipment, physical appliances, automobiles, communication equipment, communication equipment
70 Useful Numbers Airline Companies
5, Angel Kanchev Str. (map C4) & 02 980 22 12 Luggage and Flying Blue claims: www.alitalia.bg fax: 029 800 865 Ticketing desk at the airport: & 02 937 32 11
Bus Lines
www.centralnaavtogara.bg 138, Vasil Levski Blvd. (map E1) &/fax: 02 945 39 39 100, Knyaginya Maria Luiza Blvd. (map C0) & 028 133 100, 028 133 101 www.etapgroup.com
CENTRAL BUS STATION & 02 402 04 00 e-mail: callFB@air.bg For sales and reservations: & 02 402 04 05, 02 402 04 06 e-mail: tickets@air.bg Internet reservation: 02 402 04 61 e-mail: online@air.bg www.air.bg
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: sofsales@thy.com Working Hours: Weekdays: 09:00-17:30 Airport - Terminal 2 1, Bruksel Blvd. Departure Hall Phone: 00 359 2 9373121 Fax: 00359 2 945 91 45 Email: ekarabasoglu@thy.com www.turkishairlines.com
100, Knyaginya Maria Luiza Blvd. (map C0) & 0900 21 000 www.centralnaavtogara.bg
Car Rentals
53, Nikola Vaptsarov (map back) & 02 439 02 22/ 23 fax: 02 439 12 25 e-mail: office@hertz.bg Sofia Airport: & 029 459 217
Mladost-1 25 Distr. Entrance B, Office 1 Near to The Mall on Tsarigradsko Shose Blvd. & 02 423 57 98 cell: 0896 68 68 51 0896 68 68 49 www.rotto-bg.com e-mail: office@rotto-bg.com
Info Center
Emergency Number Single European Emergency Call Number: &112
Underpass of St. Kliment Ohridski Univercity of Sofia and Metrostation St. Kliment Ohridski Open: Mon - Fri 9.30 - 18.30 & 02 491 83 44/ 45
Useful Numbers 71 Diplomatic Missions - www.mfa.bg/en Brazil 54 B, Knyaz Dondukov Blvd., (entr. from V. Levski Blvd.)& 971 98 19, www.brazil-bg.info Canadian Honorary Consulate 9, Moskovska Str., & 969 97 10, e-mail: general@canada-bg.org Germany 25, Frederic Joliot-Curie Str., & 918 38 00, www.sofia.diplo.de Netherlands 15, Oborishte Str., & 816 03 00, www.netherlandsembassy.bg United States of America 16, Kozyak Str., & 937 51 00, www.usembassy.bg
Language Courses
ONE TO ONE BULGARIAN
through English call A.D.D. 0877 66 08 11 e-mail: tonnie_d@hotmail.com facebook: Antoaneta Dimitrova
Locksmith assistance
Real Estate 75, Patriarh Evtimiy Blvd. (map B5) & 02 852 06 53, & /fax: 02 953 17 66 cell: 0888 839 516 e-mail: anima_m@realtor.bg office@anima-mbg.com www.anima-mbg.coms.com
Translations
Lozenets District 27, Tsvetna gradina Str. (map C8)
0888 41 92 88 & 02 963 00 66
Lost Properties On plane – at information desk to the air company At the airport – information desk in terminal or security & 02 937 35 54, 02 937 35 55 On the public transport – office Vazrazhdane, small hall - & 02 987 334 6 (7-20h), Vazrazhdane sq. On train – at Central railway station, & 02 932 30 42 In a taxi – contact with taxi company
Medical Services
IMC International Medical Center
Family Medicine & Pediatrics; Physiotherapist; Ultrasound, Gynecology, Laboratory; Adults & Children Dental Care; English, French and Russian Speaking Doctors & Staff. Credit cards accepted. 28, N. V. Gogol Str. (map G4) e-mail: imc@gbg.bg www.imc-sofia.com For appointments and house calls: & 02 944 93 26, 02 944 93 17 (8.30-20.00 h) or 0886 532 551 (24 h)
Railway Central Railway Station
Knyaginya Maria Luiza Blvd. (map C0) & 02 931 11 11, 02 932 33 33
www.bdz.bg
ISO 9001:2000 Translation and Legalization Agency (Department “Consul’s Relationships” at the Bulgarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, contract 997/2005 authorizes the agency) 68, V. Levski Blvd. (map D5) & 02 980 60 52, fax 02 980 01 34 e-mail: office@artedoc.com www.translationservicebg.com
Fides Interconsult Ltd.
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: office@fides.bg www.fides.bg
Tourist Services
ATPOH ASTRON-S Ltd.
National Palace of Culture /NPC/ Tickets center & + 359 2 953 11 15 & 953 11 20 Fax: + 359 2 980 10 19 e-mail: info@astron-s.com www.astron-s.com AIR TICKETS, BUS TICKETS, HOTEL RESERVATIONS Medical Insurances, Seminars, Conferences, Cruises, Excursions & Holidays Open: Mon - Fri 9.00 - 18.00 Sat 10.00 - 14.00
72 index A Amfora Park Hotel.......................36 Anima M Real Estate.............37,71 Antique Art France.......................56 Antique art Shop..........................56 Apartment House Sofia...............37 Arte.doc Translation agency.......71 Arte Hotel....................................33 Art Shops The Bird.......................56 Alitalia..........................................70 Antique shop Artsroy....................56 Antique shop GMO......................56 Aquarium Restaurant...................40 Astra Hotel...................................33 Astron S......................................71 B Barbados Restaurant...................46 Bar Road 66................................54 Be My Guest Hostel....................37 Best Western City Hotel..............30 Best Western Hotel Expo............30 Best Western Premier Thracia Hotel...............................30 Boutique hotel Les Fleurs............30 Books & Antiques Center.............54 Bulgary Restaurant......................44 Bulgaria Air..................................70 C California Hotel............................33 CasaBoyanaBoutiqueHotel.........36 Captain Cook Restaurant ...........46 Central Park Hotel........................31 Complex Golden Queen...............54 Concept.......................................40 Continental Plaza.........................40 Club of Architect .........................40 D Die Alte Lampe Restaurant..........42 Diplomatic missions....................70 Diter Hotel....................................33 Dr.Nona Cosmetics.....................56 Downtown Hotel.........................32 E easyHotel....................................36 Enigma Agency...........................54 Etap Adress.................................70 F Favorit Hotel.................................33 Fides Interconsult Ltd..................71 Flo cafe........................................44 G Galleries......................................60 Grand Hotel Sofia........................28 Grozd Restaurant........................44 H Happy Bar&Grill..........................42 Happy Sushi..............................48 Hemus Hotel..............................34 Hertz Rent-a-car.........................70 Hilton Sofia.................................28 Holiday Inn Sofia.........................28 Holiday Village Diplomat.............34 Hight class girls...........................54 I Information Tourist Centre Sofia..70 IMC............................................71
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K Kempinski Hotel Zografski Sofia.28 KFC Fast Food...........................46 Korean Restaurant.....................48 Kohinoor Restaurant..................48 Kumbare Greek Restaurant.......46 L La Cubanita...............................42 La Pastaria.................................48 La Vitta e Bella Restaurant.........48 L’Etranger Restaurant................46 Lebed Restaurant......................50 Lion Hotel................................35 Locksmith assistance................71
M Madrid Hotel..............................36 Mamin Kolio Mehana................44 Mamma Mia Pizza.....................50 Manastirska Magernitsa............44 Maraia Club...............................54 Maria Luisa Hotel.......................32 McDonald’s...............................46 Meg-Lozenetz Hotel...................35 Mr.Pizza.....................................48 Museums..................................69 N Niky Beerhouse.........................42 Niky Hotel..................................34 Novotel Sofia..............................32 O One to One..................................71 Olive’s Restaurant.....................42 Outskirts...................................36 P Park Hotel Moskva....................35 Peep Show Bar..........................52 Plana Hotel /Restaurant..............40 Pizzarela Pizza&Grill...................52 Pod Lipite Restaurant 1............44 Pop Bogomil Hotel.....................36 Prime Rentals.............................37 Pri kmeta...................................42 Princess Casino International....54 Princess Hotel............................32 Pri Yafata...................................44 R Radisson BLU Grand Hotel.......29 Rila Hotel....................................35 Rotasar Hotel.............................35 Rotto rent-a-car.........................70 S Sandanski Municipality.............4/5 Sheraton Hotel...........................29 Simona Hotel.............................36 SkyPlaza....................................40 SlavyanskabesedaHotel............35 Sofia Live Club............................54 Sofia Place Hotel.......................35 T Tell Me.......................................54 T&M Restaurant........................50 Turquoise Restaurant.................50 Turkish airlines...........................70 365 bar food music .................52 Teacher Ivan’s House Restaurant.46 Technopolis...............................56 The House Hotel........................35 The House Restaurant...............40 The Mall.....................................56 Trakia Guesthouse.....................37 Tzar Asen Hotel.........................37 U Useful Numbers...................70-71 V Villa Boyana Hotel.......................37 Versus Club...............................54 Viva Casino................................54 VIP Appartment..........................37 Vodenitzata Restaurant..............50