Ruse - The City of the Free Spirit

Welcome to Bulgaria – our beautiful country! Here we are at the doorstep of this postcard-sized country, about to embark upon an incredible voyage through mystical forests, golden shores, snowy peaks, ancient fortresses, heavenly monasteries and astounding natural wonders. Here we are on the brink of exploring one of the most attractive destinations in Europe. It is a place where civilization and nature meet to create the perfect blend between urban life and the great outdoors and where everything is within an arm's reach.

Bulgaria is among the most affordable destinations in Europe where the wishes of even the most exacting of tourists will be satisfied. And once visited, it will always give you something to come back for. Here we are…ready to get in. So let the journey begin.

General info:

Bulgaria lies at the heart of the Balkan Peninsula, building a bridge between the classy and sophisticated West and the colourful and friendly East and, quite naturally, is heavily influenced by both. The country was formed in 681 AD and this makes it one of the oldest in Europe and the world. Hence, the numerous historical and cultural monuments one will find there. In terms of territory, it occupies the mere 110,910 sq km which makes it a real tiny gem, offering so much with so little. Saying that you can do some hiking in the mountain in the morning, go see a play in the theatre in the afternoon and grab a bite in a restaurant on the seafront in the evening won’t be an exaggeration, on the contrary. But that’s not all. A couple of hours will be more than enough to complete your escape from the big city and dive in the solitude of some authentic little village where locals will greet you with the most delicious organic fruits and vegetables and homemade yogurt and cheese you have ever tasted. 

The mountains and the sea:

These are Bulgaria’s most invaluable assets and also the greatest attractions for tourists. Apart from Vitosha, the mountain standing next to the capital city, there are about 35 more mountains on the territory of the country. The two giants Rila and Pirin, both national parks, are located in the southwestern part of the country. Their world-class ski resorts and numerous ecotrails make them great for skiing in the winter and hiking in the summer. Rila is also the highest mountain on the Balkans with its Musala Peak (2925 m), while Vihren Peak in Pirin is the second highest in the country – 2914m. The Rhodopes, Orpheus’s mountain, take up the bulk of Southern Bulgaria. They provide excellent opportunities for mountaineering, their villages preserve the traditional Bulgarian customs and folklore and their rocks keep substantial evidence of the Thracians who inhabited these places thousands of years ago.  But perhaps most spectacular of all is Stara Planina – the Great Divide. Old Mountain, as the name translates into English, runs through the whole country separating the Danubian Plain to the north from the Upper Thracian Plain to the south and connecting the Bulgarian West to Black Sea. Botev (2376m), its highest peak, is named after Hristo Botev, one of the most iconic figures in Bulgarian history. The mountains are also perceived as important religious sanctuaries where tourists will discover some of Bulgaria’s most magical monasteries.

the Black Sea Coast. 

 It runs along the entire Eastern border of the country, covering a distance of 378 km. And every summer thousands of tourists spend their vacations there. But why? Well, because it

offers endless sandy beaches and great variety of attractions at affordable prices. Those who enjoy the peace and quiet can go up north to Krapets or down south to Sinemorets. The devoted campers can relax on the beaches of Smokinya, Arapya or Kavatsi. The fun-lovers can have their holidays in the entertainment centres Sunny Beach and Golden Sands. And the admirers of history, culture and religion can visit Nesebar, an architectural reserve and one of UNESCO’s world heritage sites, or Sozopol where the relics of St. John the Baptist are preserved. Of course there is still the beach, the sun, and the blue sea.

Natural wonders and mineral springs:

The natural landmarks one will come across in this tiny little country are so many and diverse that it is absolutely impossible to go through all of them at once. They range from beautiful rock formations such as the Belogradchik Rocks (Belogradchishki Skali) in the northwest and the Standing Stones (Pobiti Kamani) near Varna, the Stone Mushrooms (Kamenni Gabi) in the south and the Lion’s Head (Lavska Glava) south of Burgas, to epic caves like Magura, Yagodinska, Devetashka and Ledenika, to gorgeous mountain lakes and reservoirs – Seven Rila Lakes, Batak, Kardzhali, to stunning gorges –Kresna and Trigrad. Seeing just some of them will make you feel very excited, if not breathless, and after that you will probably want to get some good rest. Bulgaria’s mineral SPAs will take care of that. If you really need a place where to relax and recuperate the country’s 225 mineral springs will provide you with plenty of options to pick from in terms of location and price and will allow you to enjoy the healing qualities of mineral water. Alternatively, you may prefer to loosen up with a club in hand. That wouldn’t be a problem because the country boasts some of the best golf coursesin Europe.

Capital city

Situated in the western part of Bulgaria, Sofia is the political and cultural centre of the country and also its biggest city with a population of nearly 2 million people. It is a genuine modern European city with nice wide boulevards, attractive city centre and neat parks where culture, entertainment and religious diversity are highlighted. In it one will always find an interesting museum or gallery to visit or a play to see. And there will always be a restaurant, a night club, a discotheque or a pub that will suit your taste. But the thing that makes this city so special is Vitosha National Park, the majestic mountain hanging over it. This monument of nature provides shelter for all those who wish to escape from the concrete heaven of civilization and spend some time in a place governed only by peace and solitary bliss. 

Climate

The climate in Bulgaria is moderate continental with four yearly seasons and average annual temperature of 10.5 C. The coldest month is January with an average temperature of 0 degrees centigrade. The average air temperature in the summer is 30 C. and the average water temperature - 25 C.

Language

The official language in the country is Bulgarian. Bulgaria brought the world the Cyrillic alphabet – which today is used in Russia and throughout the Balkans and other Slavic nations. It was invented by two monks during the First Bulgarian Empire. Russian is widely spoken by the older generations, while English is popular among younger people.

Currency

The national currency of Bulgaria is the Bulgarian Lev (BGN) or in the plural form, Leva. (In Bulgarian, "lev" is the old for lion). Notes are in denominations of 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1. Coins are in denominations of 1lv. and 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 (stotinki). You can exchange money at banks, at large hotels and at independent currency exchange offices, where the rates are clearly displayed. American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa are accepted in large cities, in larger hotels and car hire offices, and in some restaurants and shops. However, Bulgaria is still a country that operates mainly on cash. ATMs are widespread, although it is best to check with the relevant bank/card provider prior to travel. Although exchange rates fluctuate on a day to day basis, for orientation purposes you can assume the following rates:1 Euro = 1.95 BGN (fixed)1 USD = 1.50 BGN (fluctuating)1 Pound Sterling = 2.30 BGN (fluctuating).

If you plan on using your credit card in Bulgaria, it is recommended that you bring your pin code with you as it happens some of the companies nowadays to ask their clients to type in their pin codes in order to authorize transactions and minimise fraud. ATMs are available for cash withdrawals throughout the whole country. Of course you can get cash from any local bank branch as well.

                                                                        Bulgarian coins

                                                                    Bulgarian banknotes

Exchange rates by the Bulgarian National Bank http://bnb.bg/

Tipping

Tips are almost never included in the price of goods and services in Bulgaria so if you feel satisfied with what you get, don’t hesitate to add an extra buck. Normally, we would advise you to leave a tip that is somewhere in the 10% range. Oh, and one more thing: the prices of all goods and services in Bulgaria include 20% VAT. Time Local time in Bulgaria is +2 (GMT) Business hours The official business hours of most companies and administrative institutions in Bulgaria are from 9am to 5pm, Monday through Friday. This includes banks, ministries, post offices, libraries, etc. However, 99% of the supermarkets, shops and bookstores have longer business hours and are open on weekends as well. Restaurants, bistros and pubs are usually open seven days a week from say 11am until midnight (at least). And please don’t expect the night clubs and discotheques to close before dawn. Safety

Bulgaria is a reasonably safe country. It is recommended to take normal precautions as everywhere else when travelling.

Water

The tap water in Bulgaria is drinkable and tastes fine. We do realize, however, that taste is a highly subjective thing so if you don’t feel absolutely sure about this, you can just opt for one of the many different brands of mineral water sold in the nearby supermarket. Bulgaria’s got hundreds of mineral springs that produce high-quality bottled water, so it is pretty safe to say that you will get the taste you want. We promise. Electricity All power outlets in Bulgaria provide 220 V (50Hz) AC and the Schuko AC power plug and socket system is regarded as the standard one in the country. It is compatible with europlugs. Telecommunications

Phones:

Country Code: 00359 Area Codes: 00359+ Sofia – (0)2Plovdiv – (0)32Varna – (0)52Burgas – (0)56Ruse – (0)82Stara Zagora – (0)42Veliko Tarnovo - (0)62 When calling from abroad, dial the country code first and then the area code. If you are in the country and you wish to make a long-distance phone call just pick the relevant area code and add a 0 in front of it. Mobiles: There are three major mobile phone network providers operating on the territory of Bulgaria: M-Tel, Globul and Vivacom. 

They all provide decent services but due to their affiliations to different international telecommunication groups the price at which you will get them may vary substantially. So if you intend to use your own cell phone during your stay in the country, make sure you are well aware of the roaming fees you are charged and always pick the cheapest option. This will surely prevent you from getting extremely upset at the end of the month when the mobile phone bill arrives.

Internet: Oh relax, Bulgaria offers great Internet services so you will be able to check your mail and update your Facebook status even if you are stranded in the most isolated, godforsaken town or village in the country. 

Wi-Fi Internet is available in many hotels, cafés and restaurants, as well as in some parks in the main cities. If you don’t have your own laptop computer, you might as well look up for an Internet café. 

Traditional Food in Bulgaria

Bulgarian food is in many ways similar to the food served in Greece and Turkey: tomato, cucumber and cheese salad (shopska salad), moussaka (musaka), filo pastries (byurek) and stuffed vine leaves (sarmi) are among the shared dishes. But there are important differences, too, and the use of sunflower instead of olive oil for cooking and flavouring is not the only one. Away from the Black Sea, there is less emphasis on fish dishes and a stronger reliance on vegetables and fruit. The meal often begins with a salad or a selection of traditional meze (appetizers). They are both usually accompanied by a glass of rakiya, the local brandy.

                          'Shopska' Salad                                           Tarator                                                 Gyuvech

Many of the Bulgarian traditional dishes feature yoghurt, cheese, spices and herbs. Chubritsa is a herb similar to oregano and appears dried and crumbled onto soups, stews and even bread. Dill-scented tarator cold soup is wonderfully cooling on a hot summer day. Many dishes are meatless, such as the 'monastery-style' bean soup of white kidney beans and vegetables. It is believed that this dish has its origins in one of the country's religious orders. Bulgarians love stuffed vegetable dishes, peppers being a favourite. Usually baked, in summer peppers are filled with a mixture of cheese and eggs and deep-fried. Carp caught in the rivers of Bulgaria such as the Danube is the traditional dish served on the important feast day of St. Nicholas. At Christmas and New Year you will get to taste a delicious banitsa with lucky charms hidden among its filo leaves.

Ruse Information

Ruse city has been a central gate to Europe for a long time and the European influence is mostly apparent in the wonderful buildings, dating from the 19th and 20th Centuries. The city of Ruse is situated on the highest right bank of the Danube river, at a distance of 320 km from Sofia, 200 km from Varna and about 300 km from Plovdiv. The population of the city is about 180 000 people. This is one of the largest cities in the country – an important cultural, commercial and industrial center.

There is a good reason why Ruse is called the “Small Vienna”. Every aspect of its architecture is heavily influenced by arguably one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Everything from the streets to the houses, from the administrative buildings to the parks and cafes preserves the unique atmosphere of the Austrian capital.

Another thing that ties Ruse so closely to its famous West European bigger brother is the name of Elias Canetti. The renowned German-speaking writer of Austrian descent who won the Nobel Prize in 1981 was in fact born in a nice little house on Slavyanska Street, which is now open for tourists. But this is just on the surface. What lies underneath this exquisite coat is the city’s more-than-twenty-century-old heart full of Thracian, Roman and medieval Bulgarian monuments, churches and museums which is surrounded by precious nature parks and of course the Blue Danube.

The unearthly beauty of the Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo, aUNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Monastery of St. Dimitar Basarabovski, both located in the area around the town of Ruse, will touch and inspire even the toughest of tourists. 

A city of ‘firsts’

Ruse is a real city of ‘firsts’ ... the first newspaper printed in Bulgaria in Bulgarian came out in Ruse in 1865. The first public pharmacy and the first bookshop were opened in Ruse. In 1871 the first teachers’ association was set up here. The first Chamber of Commerce, the first movie theatre, and more! 

Perhaps one of the most significant of these was the building of the Ruse - Varna railway which was the first of its kind in the Balkans and  contributed enormously to the importance of the town.

The Russo-Turkish Crimean War of 1853-56 was a vivid demonstration of how desperately the Ottoman Empire was behind the rest of Europe. There were no highways nor railways. During the war Turkey came up with a strategy for railway construction across its European territories. There were three lines immediately planned, one of which was a line to connect Ruse city with the Black Sea port of Varna.

Meetings and negotiations continued for two years with the British, the French and the Turks, all involved, plus interest from Russia and Austria. The major influence of one of the engineers, Liar, gained the upper hand and he wanted to promote the railway line from Ruse to the Black Sea coast. Despite a permit to construct the line, given in 1856, Liar decided not to build the line. Applications came in from the Bulgarians in Shumen but their application was turned down. In the end, it was Great Britain that got the construction project!

The whole construction of the railway together with a concession to run for 99 years were assigned to a British company lead by the Barclay Brothers. Work started in 1864 at both

Ruse and Varna ends. Local Bulgarian labour was mostly used in the construction. To transport materials two small Belgian locomotives were used. In just three months some 160 kms were prepared and rails laid down for 22 kms from Ruse and 32 kms from Varna. This was to become the first railway line in Bulgaria.

The inauguration of the line was cancelled many times but finally on 7 November 1866 it was declared open when the Turkish governor of Ruse district travelled the whole length of the line. The line covered 224 kms with eight railway stations. 

It was a British company which first started routine exploitation of the railway line but hopes for it being used for international traffic never came about because of frequent derailings and delays. Nevertheless for two years, 1883 to 1885, the Orient Express travelled on the line. Nowadays it is one of the busiest railway lines in Bulgaria.

Must see in the city

One of the city symbols is the Building of the Tax Administration – a beautiful building in the center of Ruse. It was constructed in 1901-1902 and impresses the visitors with its wonderful façade and the seven figures on the roof. They are a symbol of arts, science, music, agriculture, commerce, defense and the free spirit flight. On the top is the symbol of commerce – Mercury.

Another significant place to visit is The Regional Historical Museum. More than 130 000 monuments of culture are stored in it. Among them is the Borovsko Thracian Treasure – a set of up to five silver ritual vessels dating back to the 4th century BC.

Another interesting landmark is the Museum of the City Style of Life, also called The Kaliopa House. Its exposition represents the interior of a rich Ruse home from the end of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century, and the beautiful wall-paintings on the second floor were made by the Austrian painter Charles Schausberg.

One of the most interesting landmarks of the city of Ruse is the remains of the fortress Seksaginta Prista. It is situated in the north-west part of the city, on a small hill near the bank of the Danube river. The closed exposition presents the fortress scales, and a part of the finds can also be viewed in the historical museum of Ruse, where they are exhibited in a separate room.

The only National Museum of Transport in Bulgaria is situated in Ruse, which is housed in the building of the first railway station in Bulgaria. There are three halls in the museum, displaying the history of railway transport and shipping in Bulgaria.

There are also interesting and beautiful landmarks in the vicinity of the city of Ruse. The beautiful Natural Park Rusenski Lom is situated at a distance of 20 km south-west from the city, on an area of 3408 hectares. The park offers various options for ecological and alternative tourism, and a number of significant historical and cultural monuments are situated within its borders. The remains of the medieval town of Cherven – one of the largest military, economic and cultural centers of the Second Bulgarian Empire (1185 – 1393), are among them. The Ivanovski Rock Churches are also situated here – a site included in the List of Global Cultural Inheritance of UNESCO. Another religious center in close proximity to Ruse is the monastery St. Dimitar Basarbovski – the only active rock monastery in Bulgaria.

The city is a host of multiple cultural events such as the Ruse Carnival, the March Music Days, the Autumn Days of Arts and Science, etc.

The tourist exhibition entitled Weekend Tourism is conducted annually in Ruse. The festival of Tourist Entertainment and Animation is also conducted as a part of the schedule within the framework of the Exhibition.

Ruse offers various categories of accommodation places, catering and entertainment establishments. You can find more information regarding the landmarks and the events in city and accommodation places in the Tourist Information Center which is situated on the central square.

Transportation

Bus, railway and river transport services the inter-town and international connections of the town. There are regular bus lines to Sofia, Varna, Pleven, Veliko Turnovo, Shoumen, Razgrad, Turgovishte and a lot of other towns and villages of the country. There are two bus stations functioning in the town - Iztok (East) Bus Station (10, Ivan Vedar Street) and Yug (South) Bus Station (156, Alexander Stamboliiski Square). 

Ruse is the initial station of two railway lines: Ruse - Gorna Oryahovitsa - Stara Zagora - Podkova and Ruse - Kaspichan - Varna. It is connected through these to the national railway network. There are two railway stations in the town - one in the eastern part and the Central Railway Station. There is a town railway ticket bureau and an office for sleeping car reservations. 

There is town bus and trolley bus transport within Ruse city. Ruse Tourist Office:61 Alexandrovska StrOn the Internet: www.tic.rousse.bg (English language version available)

Public transport in Rousse- www.eggedruse.com

Central Bus Station Rousse-www.http://ilhanarif.com/

Train Timetable - www.razpisanie.bdz.bg

Before you go

So you read all these nice things about Bulgaria and decided to get some firsthand impressions. Excellent!

First off, organise your trip to the country. This shouldn’t be too difficult for you as getting to Bulgaria is like getting to any other destination in the world, just follow the basic routines: check if you need a visa to get into the country or if there are any other specific entry requirements you have to meet.

Spring is perfect for those who don’t like extreme temperatures and love sightseeing. During this time of the year the big urban centres transform into all-green fresh hybrids of nature and civilization and the beauty of the small towns and villages is never more apparent. This is the best time for you to feel their authentic atmosphere and see their marvelous historical and cultural landmarks without sweating like crazy or shivering with cold. May is generally warm and sunny but March and April are sometimes bleak and rainy, so consider taking a pair of waterproof shoes, a warm jacket and an umbrella together with your light clothes and espadrilles.

Here’s a quick checklist of things that you must not forget to bring:

ID/Passport; Health – eye-glasses/contact lenses, health card, meds, vitamins, others (asthma

inhalers, etc.); Personal hygiene stuff (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, deodorant, hair dryer,

beauty cream, shaving razor and aWershave); Cell phone (+ charger)* for UK plugs we have European plugs, wallet/money, credit

card; International dinner gear (country’s flag, scarf, t-shirt, food, drinks) ; Info market tools (leaflets and promotional materials about your country and

organization,presentations, pins, etc.).

And also some things you might want to bring:

"dress to impress" (lipstick, make up, heels, perfume, killing party-sun-glasses) ; a travel guide of Bulgaria, if you really want to dive in the country ; your camera, because Bulgaria is so beautiful you won t stop taking photos ;) ; music if you want to entertain us or show us the new party-hit in your country; address of family and friends to send them nice postcards or mail;

Getting to Bulgaria

By Air

Bulgaria has three commercial airports – Sofia, Varna and Burgas. Ruse is located in the northeastern part of the country opposite the Romanian city of Giurgiu, approximately 75 km (47 mi) south of Bucharest, 200 km (124 mi) from the Bulgarian Black Sea Coast and 300 km (186 mi) from the capital Sofia.

Bucharest Airports

The closest international airport is 75 km north, in Bucharest - Bucharest Henri Coanda International Airport. It is situated at 16,5 km distance from Bucharest down-town. http://www.bucharestairports.ro/otp/

There is a second Romanian airport - Bucharest Băneasa-Aurel Vlaicu International Airport. It is located at 8.5 km distance from the Bucharest’s city Centre. The airport is used for charter flights and scheduled low-cost flights from/to destinations in Europe. http://www.bucharestairports.ro/baneasa/

Public transportation between Baneasa airport and city center of Bucharest:

- Bus 131 to Piaţa Victoriei; Bus 205 to the main train station (Gara de Nord); Express Line 783 to Piaţa Unirii. For more information about transportation to Rousse, Bulgaria check point 4 and point 5).

The best way getting to Ruse is by taxi. The To4nite - taxi 8108 company offers transfers by taxi from/to Rousse from/to:

- Otopeni airport (Henri Coandă International Airport)

- Aurel Vlaicu Baneasa Airport

- Gara de Nord

- Central bus station

- Specific address

The company will help you plan your journey from and to Bucharest in time convenient for you. All you need to do is register on the company’s web-site: www.taxi8108.com Price from Bucharest to Rousse: 46euro for one – way transfer

By bus to/from Rousse

The Ruse-based company Ovonesovi runs two minibuses:

- From Bucharest to Rousse daily at 10.30am and 3.30pm from the Hotel Horoskop on Bucharest’s Piața Unirii square.

- From Rousse to Bucharest at 6.30am and 13:30pm from Central bus station Rousse.

Price: one way ticket 20 lv (10 euro)/ return ticket 30 lv (15 euro).

You need to register by phone: +359 82 821 964, http://web.ovanesovi.eu/ibl_romania.php

By train to/from Rousse

The access to the North Railway Station from the airport can be achieved by using the Express Line 783 and then the underground up to Piaţa Victoriei, having the following route: Bucharest Băneasa International Airport/ Piaţa Presei

Libere/ Arcul de Triumf/ Piaţa Victoriei/ Piaţa Romana/ Piaţa Universităţii /Piaţa Unirii

Gara de Nord, Bucharest – Central railway station, Rousse: train 461 dep. 13:00 – arr. 15:35

Gara de Nord, Bucharest – Central railway station, Rousse: train 383 dep. 23:15

Central railway station, Rousse - Gara de Nord, Bucharest: train 382 dep. 03:45 – arr.06:20

Central railway station, Rousse - Gara de Nord, Bucharest: train 460 dep. 15:55 – arr.18:33

Tel: +359 82 834 860; +359 2 987 07 77; http://bdz.bg/index-en.php

Price: 19 lv (≈ 10 euro) for one – way ticket from Rousse to Bucharest

Sofia Airport

This is the busiest Bulgarian airport with an average traffic of 3 million passengers a year. Depending on whether you choose the services of a low-cost or a full-service airline you will arrive at either the old or the new terminal of the capital’s airport.

Useful numbers Police/Ambulance/Fire Brigade: 112

Flight Information: +359 2 937 22 11

V.I.P. lounge: +359 2 937 21 91

Lost & Found: +359 2 937 35 55

Varna Airport

Varna Airport is at the northern Black Sea Coast about 7 km out of Varna. It has one main terminal that serves both domestic and international flights. A single trip from Terminal 1 to the city centre takes about quarter of an hour to complete and costs around BGN 10-15. For more information about Varna Airport, please, visit: http://www.varna-airport.bg/

 Useful numbersPolice/Ambulance/Fire Brigade: 112

Flight Information: +359 52 573 323

V.I.P. lounge: +359 52 573 460 [email protected]

Lost & Found: +359 52 573 423 [email protected]

Burgas Airport

Burgas Airport is at the southern Black Sea Coast and is only 5 km from the Burgas. It has only one terminal that serves both domestic and international flights.There is a taxi rank right outside the Arrivals Terminal at the airport.

For more information about Burgas Airport, please, visit: http://www.bourgas-airport.com/

Useful numbers

Police/Ambulance/Fire Brigade: 112

Flight Information: +359 56 870 272/248

V.I.P. lounge: +359 56 870 266 [email protected]

Lost & Found: +359 56 870 273 [email protected]

Once you have landed safely in Bulgaria and claimed your luggage, there will be AIESECer who will wait for you at the airport and escort you to Ruse!

By Road

Bulgaria is sitting on several major European routes:

Spain - France - Italy - Slovenia - Croatia - Serbia - Romania - Bulgaria - Black Sea by ferry - Turkey - Georgia

Point of entries: from Romania - Ruse, Black Sea - Varna

Romania - Bulgaria - Greece

Point of entries: from Romania - Vidin, from Greece - Kulata

Portugal - Spain - France - Monaco - Italy - Croatia - Montenegro - Serbia - Bulgaria - Turkey

Point of entries: from Serbia - Dragoman, from Turkey: Svilengrad

Lithuania - Belarus - Ukraine - Romania - Bulgaria - Greece

Point of entries: from Romania - Ruse, from Greece - Svilengrad

By River/Sea

Danube River flows along Bulgaria and Romania is the natural border of both countries.

As Corridor VII of EU the river is a very important transportation route. The river connects Black Sea with important industrial centers and with the port of Rotterdam (via Rhine-Main-Danube Canal).

Major cities on Danube River – Ulm, Ingolstadt, Regensburg, Passau, Linz, Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest, Beograd, Calafat, Giurgiu, Vidin, Ruse.

Bulgaria has two major ports on Black Sea: Port of Varna and Port of Burgas. Both operate passenger and cargo terminals. For more information please click on the links above.

Basic Living Costs

Acommodation

AIESEC Ruse will help you to find accommodation before your arrival. We usually have place ready for you before you arrive!

Language Basics

English Phrases Bulgarian Phrases

Greetings

Hi! Zdravei!

Good morning! Dobro utro!

Good evening! Dobar vecher!

Welcome! (to greet someone) Dobre doshal!

How are you? Kak si?

I'm fine, thanks! Dobre,mersi!

And you? A ti?

Good/ So-So. Dobre./ Biva.

Thank you (very much)! Mnogo blagodaria!

You're welcome! (for 'thank you') Ti si dobre doshal! (Blagodaria)

Hey! Friend! Zdrasti!Priyatel!

I missed you so much! Lipsvash mi mnogo!

What's new? Neshto novo?

Nothing much Ne mnogo.

Good night! Leka nosht!

See you later! Do po-kasno.

Good bye! Chao.

Asking for Help and Directions

I'm lost Zagubih se

Can I help you? Moje li da Vi pomogna?

Can you help me? Moje li da mi pomognete?

Where is the (bathroom/ pharmacy)? Kade e (banyata/aptekata)?

Go straight! Then turn left/ right! Varvete napravo!Posle zavivate na lyavo/dyasno!

I'm looking for John. Tarsya John.

One moment please! Edin moment,molya.

Hold on please! (phone) Pochakaite molya.

How much is this? Kolko struva tova?

Excuse me ...! (to ask for something) Izvinete...

Excuse me! ( to pass by) Izvinete moje li...

Come with me! Ela s men.

How to Introduce Yourself

Do you speak (English/ Bulgarian)? Govorite li (angliiski/ balgarski)?

Just a little. Malko.

What's your name? Kak se kazvate?

My name is ... Az se kazvam...

Mr.../ Mrs.…/ Miss… Gospodin/ gospoja/ gospojitsa

Nice to meet you! Priatno mi e da se zapoznaem!

You're very kind! Vie ste mnogo mil/lyubezen!

Where are you from? Ot kade ste?

I'm from (the U.S/ Bulgaria) Az sam ot (Amerika/ Balgaria).

I'm (American) Az sam amerikanets.

Where do you live? Kade jiveete?

I live in (the U.S/ Balgaria) As jiveya v (Amerika/ Balgaria).

Did you like it here? Haresva li vi tuka?

Bulgaria is a wonderful country Balgaria e velikolepna strana.

What do you do for a living? Kakvo rabotite?

I work as a (translator/ businessman) Az sam (prevodach/ biznesmen)

I like Bulgarian Az haresvam balgarskiyat.

I've been learning Bulgarian for 1 month Az ucha balgarski ot edin mesets.

Oh! That's good! O, tova e dobre.

How old are you? Na kolko godini ste?

I'm (twenty, thirty...) years old. Az sam na (dvadeset, trideset...) godini.

I have to go Tryabva da tragvam.

I will be right back! Shte se varna.

Wish Someone Something

Good luck! Uspeh!

Happy birthday! Chestit rojden den!

Happy New Year! Chestita nova godina!

Merry Christmas! Vesela Koleda!

Congratulations! Posdravlenia!

Enjoy! (for meals...) Da vi e vkusno!

I'd like to visit Bulgaria one day Edin den iskam da posetya Balgaria.

Say hi to John for me Pozdravi John ot men.

Bless you (when sneezing) Nazdrave.

Good night and sweet dreams! Leka nosht i sladki sanishta.

Cheers! (when making a toast) Nazdrave

Solving a misunderstanding

I'm sorry! (if you don't hear something) Za sajelenie ne vi chuh.

Sorry (for a mistake) Sajalyavam.

No problem! Nyama nikakav problem.

Can you say it again? Moje li da go povtorite.

Can you speak slowly? Moje li da govorite po-bavno.

Write it down please! Molya zapishete.

I don't understand! Nishto ne razbrah.

I don't know! Ne znam

I have no idea. Niamam nikakva predstava.

What's that called in Bulgarian? Kak e tova na balgarski?

What does '….' mean in English? Kakvo osnachava '…..' na angliiski?

How do you say 'Please' in Bulgarian? Kak e 'please' na balgarski?

What is this? Kakvo e tova?

My Bulgarian is bad Balgarskiiat mi e losh.

I need to practice my Bulgarian Triabva poveche da si uprajniavam balgaskiiat.

Don't worry! Ne se trevoji.

Bulgarian Expressions and Words

Good/ Bad/ So-so. Dobar/ losh/ gore dolu

Big/ Small Goliam/malak

Today/ Now Dnes/ sega

Tomorrow/ Yesterday Utre/ vchera

Yes/ No Da/ ne

Here you go! (when giving something) Sapoviadai.

Do you like it? Haresvali vi?

I really like it! Naistina mi haresva.

I'm hungry/ thirsty. Gladen sam./ Jaden sam.

In the morning/ Evening/ At Night. Sutrin/ Vecher/ Pres nochta.

This/ That. Here/There Tova/ Onova. Tuk/ Tam

Me/ You. Him/ Her Men/ Ti. Nego/ Neia

Really! Naistina li?

Look! Vij!

Hurry up! Pobarzai.

What? Where? Kakvo?Kade?

What time is it? Kolko e chasat?

It's 10 o'clock. 07:30pm. Deset chasa e. Sedem i polovina e.

Give me this! Dai mi tova.

I love you! Obicham te.

I feel sick. Bolen sam.

I need a doctor Triabva, mi, lekar.

One, Two, Three edno, dve, tri

Four, Five, Six chetiri, pet, shest

Seven, Eight, Nine, Ten sedem,osem,devet,deset

Important numbers:

Emergency Telephone Number – 112

Traffic Police – 165

Mountain Rescue – (+359 2 )963 20 00 

Country code – 00359

Ruse city code – 00 358 82

Information about Roisse and Bulgaria in English

www.ruse-bg.eu/

www.programata.bg/

www.brp.bg/en/

index.htm

wikitravel.org

Well, there is only one thing left for you to do now – go to Bulgaria and have fun!

We are ancient...

1. Bulgaria is the oldest country in Europe that hasn’t changed its name since it was first established. This happened in 681 AD.

2. Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, was founded 7000 years ago. This makes it the second oldest city in Europe.

3. The gold treasure discovered in the Varna Necropolis is the oldest one in the world. It dates back to 5000 BC.

4. Bulgaria comes third in the list of countries with most valuable archaeological sites discovered on their territories, preceded only by Greece and Italy. 

5. Over 15 000 Thracian tombs have been discovered on the territory of Bulgaria. The bulk of them are yet to be explored.

6. There is solid historical evidence that wine has been produced on the territory of what is now modern-day Bulgaria ever since the Stone Age. Today the country has earned the reputation of a world-class wine producer.

We are unique...

1. Bulgarians express approval by shaking their heads rather than nodding. Weird, huh.2. The famous Bulgarian rose oil is used for making some of the world’s most popular

and expensive perfumes. One gram rose oil is produced out of 1000 rose blossoms.3. Every year on 1 March Bulgarians exchange martenitsas. Essentially, these are small

pieces of adornment made of red and white thread that symbolise good health and happiness.

4. Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, is the only big city in Europe that lies just 15 minutes away from an imposing mountain – Vitosha. Cherni Vrah (Black Peak – 2290 m) is its highest peak.

5. The Bulgarian folk song Izlel e Delio Haydutin has been flying around open space together with Bach’s and Mozart’s greatest works since 1977 when the Voyager 1 and Voyager 2 probes left the Earth.

6. Bulgarian yogurt is the best in the world, no doubt about it. This is thanks to the unique Lactobacillus bulgaricus bacteria used for its production that can only be found on the territory of the country.

7. Nearly one third of Bulgaria is covered in forests and this shouldn’t be too surprising given the fact that there are over 40 mountains on its territory. Needless to say, they are all great for skiing and mountaineering.

8. Bulgaria is the country with the highest number of natural mineral springs in Continental Europe – over 600.

9. The different ethnic and religious groups in Bulgaria live in peaceful coexistence.10. The Bulgarian army has never lost a single flag in battle.

We are famous...

1. The famous Facebook creator Mark Zuckerberg has a Bulgarian origin and he is named after his Bulgarian grandfather - Marko. His grandfather has emigrated from Bulgaria in 1940. 

2. The first computer in the world was created by a Bulgarian. In the period 1937 – 1942 John Atanasoff, a scientist of Bulgarian descent, together with Clifford Berry, an American inventor working for the University of Iowa, designed and developed the first electronic digital computing device.

3. The first digital wristwatch was also invented by a Bulgarian. His name is Peter Petroff.

4. The renowned opera singers Boris Christoff and Nikolai Gyaurov are Bulgarians.5. The Cyrillic alphabet was invented in the 9th century AD by none other than the two

most famous Bulgarian monks ever to have lived – Cyril and Methodius.6. Assen Jordanoff, a renowned aircraft engineer and one of the inventors of the airbag,

was also of Bulgarian descent.7. The Bulgarian national football team finished fourth in the 1994 World Cup. Their

best footballer, Hristo Stoichkov, finished the tournament as a top scorer, netting six goals in seven games. Later that year, he also went on to become the first Bulgarian player to win the Ballon d’Or.

AIESEC Ruse is a newly established SU (Specialized Unit), which is part of the AIESEC Svishtov and running by the students of the University of Ruse. Our SU has about 15 active members , who are all interest in meeting international students from all over the world and sharing experiences and knowledge.

We will be proud and happy to welcome you in Ruse, Bulgaria! We are now looking forward to your wonderful stay in Ruse. This welcome booklet will help you to answer your questions, in view of the fact that some things will probably be new and different to you, it will also help you to prepare your stay. The reception team will try to make your stay as interesting and enjoyable as possible in this picturesque town!

AIESEC Ruse Contact information:

University of Ruse8 Studentska Street, 7012 Ruse, Bulgaria

Room 2G.106

Phone 088 495 8592

E-mail [email protected]

Web-site

http://svishtov.aiesec.bg/aiesec-ruse/