I Didn't Expect Bulgaria To Be Like This! The First Impressions Of Sofia ??

Introduction

As I enjoy the incredible views, I'd like to take a moment to introduce my travel partner—Level8. After traveling for the last two and a half years and constantly moving from country to country, having a reliable partner is essential. Level8 is not just the sponsor of this video; it's my favorite luggage for several reasons:

Durability: As someone who packs every day, I need luggage that can withstand the rigors of constant travel.
360-Degree Wheels: These wheels make it easy to glide through airports, making the luggage feel almost weightless, regardless of how heavy it is.
Ample Space: Unlike average suitcases that constrict packing space with central handles, Level8's design creates more room in the middle.

If you’re in the market for new luggage for your travels, check out the link in the description, head over to the Level8 website, and don’t forget to use my code for an extra discount!

Arrival in Sofia

Good afternoon! Welcome to my excellent adventure in Sofia, the capital city of Bulgaria. Bulgaria is known as one of the oldest countries in Europe, and I couldn't be more excited to dive into its rich history. However, upon arrival, I learned that Sofia has a bit of a bad reputation, particularly regarding its taxi service, notorious for scamming tourists. Upon arriving, I decided to take the train instead of a taxi, costing only 1.60 Lev, which is much cheaper than a taxi.

On my quest to buy a SIM card, I was quoted an outrageous price of 100 Lev (approximately $ 56) for a five-day service, which is far more than I expected. Thankfully, I eventually found a much more reasonable SIM card for 15 Lev (around $ 9).

The Metro Experience

As I hopped onto the train, I noticed that Sofia's public transportation appears decent. The journey was convenient, and before long, I arrived at the metro station, only to discover a fascinating safety feature: the train doors close off the platform when trains aren't present, creating a barrier for safety. This was my first experience with such a design.

Once I exited the metro station, I was greeted by the stunning architecture of Sofia. My hotel was conveniently located nearby, right next to the metro. Additionally, I stumbled upon a magnificent statue of Sophia, which the city is named after, and noted the presence of various landmarks, including churches and mosques.

Exploring the City

After dropping off my luggage at the hotel and receiving a warm welcome, I set off to explore Sofia further. My first mission was to try some local food. The capital city itself feels remarkably walkable, with plenty of shops, friendly locals, and a vibrant atmosphere.

I aimed for a restaurant called "Homemade," but unfortunately, they didn’t serve traditional Bulgarian dishes. Instead, I was directed to another spot, “Manasta Magerit,” where I finally found an array of local Bulgarian cuisine. The food was exceptional, featuring iconic dishes such as Shopska salad, Tarator soup, and the hearty Moussaka made with lamb.

Bulgarian Cuisine

Each dish I tried was delicious. The Shopska salad, a refreshing mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta cheese, was a fantastic starter. The Tarator soup, made of yogurt and cucumbers, was delightful and light, perfect for the summer heat. Finally, the Moussaka—layered with potatoes and lamb—was a comforting dish emblematic of Bulgarian culinary tradition.

During my meal, I learned more about Bulgarian yogurt, which is distinctive due to its special strains of bacteria that set it apart from other types of yogurt in the region.

With the meal wrapped up, I settled my bill, which came to about $ 32 for a hearty feast.

Conclusion

As I made my way back to the hotel, I marveled at Sofia’s beautiful, walkable streets and the encouraging first impressions I'd gathered. I couldn't wait to discover more of what this incredible city has to offer. Join me in the next video as I share my hotel experience and continue exploring Sofia, the historical heart of Bulgaria!

Keyword

Bulgaria, Sofia, travel, Level8, luggage, first impressions, taxi, SIM card, public transportation, Shopska salad, Tarator soup, Moussaka, Bulgarian yogurt.

FAQ

What are some things to do in Sofia?

You can explore historical sites, enjoy local cuisine, visit museums, and take in the beautiful architecture around the city.

Why is Bulgaria considered one of the oldest countries in Europe?

Bulgaria has a rich history that dates back to ancient civilizations, making it one of the oldest nations in the region.

How do I get around Sofia?

Sofia has a reliable metro system and various public transport options, including trams and buses, which make it easy to navigate the city.

Is it safe to travel in Sofia?

While Sofia is generally safe, be cautious with taxis as there have been reports of scams targeting tourists. Use official transport applications whenever possible.

What is a must-try dish in Bulgaria?

When in Bulgaria, you must try Shopska salad, Tarator soup, and Moussaka for an authentic taste of the country's culinary heritage.