Slovenia

O nly slightly larger than the State of New Jersey, most people can’t find Slovenia on a map. But that is changing quickly as tourists pour into this tiny, charming country tucked between Italy and Croatia in a tiny corner of the Adriatic.

Slovenia is very fortunate that it’s beautiful architecture was spared since it avoided many of the more notable conflicts that overtook its siblings to the east as the former Yugoslavia fractured.

For its size it’s incredibly diverse: picturesque cities, baroque palaces, historic castles, snow-capped mountains, plains blanketed with flowers and a mere sliver of coastline along the Adriatic. It’s a place that’s easy to get to, given its proximity to Italy and Austria to the north, and comfortable to travel in since the Slovenians themselves are welcoming, multilingual hosts.

Top Experiences:

Ljubljana – beautiful architecture crowned by a hilltop castle
Lake Bled – a picture postcard
Piran – a charming coastal town

Good to Know:

Slovenian Rhapsody
Since the Middle Ages, Italo-Slavic hybrid we now call Slovenia has been repeatedly absorbed by empires and dictatorships. Today, though, this tiny nation of around two million people is full of surprises says The New York Times.

Transportation:

There are no direct flights from North America to Ljubljana Airport, but there is direct or non-stop air service from a variety of European capitals. Both train and bus travel throughout the country is efficient and comfortable. Travel by car is also easy since the roads are in good condition and relatively uncrowded.

Hotels:

There is a wide range of accommodations for travelers ranging from Bed & Breakfast and pensions to luxury hotels.

Food:

Throughout the country there are many different restaurants suitable for a variety of budgets.

Quality of Medical Care (Good/Fair/Poor):

Fair