Bulgaria's political system is a parliamentary republic. After the fall of communism in 1989 the country has started on the road to democratic reform and has achieved significant progress in recent years. It has experienced sustained economic growth, has a stable political system and a highly trained workforce. The country has been a member of NATO since March 2004 and officially joined the European Union on 1st January 2007.
Property prices remain low despite the fact some properties have seen their value double since 2002. Projected figures for the future suggest similar capital growth.
Culture
Food is one of the great pleasures of Bulgarian lifestyle. Find out below what to expect at mealtimes and some of the typical dishes you will come across.
Bulgaria's cuisine is influenced by its neighbouring Balkan countries and northern Turkey. Combinations of these traditions create the Bulgarian food we know today.
Traditional food includes Bulgarian bread, pickled vegetables, salads, soups, stews, casseroles, stuffed vegetables, kebabs, spicy sausages and cheese dishes. Add to this, lots of garlic, onions, oil and spices.
Bulgarians particularly like salads - a salad and rakia (Bulgarian spirit/schnapps, usually made from grapes) are often an obligatory start to the meal. But be warned, this stage of the meal can be a very drawn-out process lasting up to an hour.
Yoghurt is very popular and eaten most days. In fact, Bulgaria is said to be the home of yoghurt and Bulgarian yoghurt is thought to have curative properties.
Meat, fish and vegetarian dishes are served with rice or bulgar wheat. Vegetables include aubergines, beans, cabbage, carrots, corn, courgettes, cucumbers, lettuce, mushrooms, onions, peppers, potatoes, tomatoes and olives.
Favourite desserts are pancakes, baklava, baked apples and fruit: apricots, blueberries, blackberries, cherries, grapes, melons, raspberries, strawberries, peaches, pears, plums and quinces.
Climate
The climate in Bulgaria is regarded as one of the country's main attractions, with four distinct seasons and generally temperate conditions. Summers are hot and dry, but comfortable due to low humidity, while winter weather is cold but not bitter.
Temperatures in summer average a comfortable 75 degrees Fahrenheit (24 Celsius). In winter this is about 32F (zero C). Northern Bulgaria has a moderate continental climate, while in the south it is intermediate continental, tending to Mediterranean.
Coastal regions are milder in winter and cooler in summer than in the interior, due to Mediterranean influences. The country's mountain ranges (including the Balkans) tend to cause regional variations.