In today's modern society we are surrounded by technology that is supposed to make our lives easier. Ironically, we have become prisoners of our own inventions. Our children are glued to tv screens or other electronic devices while we are juggling cell phones, fax machines, computers and other "tools and avenues to freedom". We are no longer able to slow our pace, to stop and smell the roses, or to dive into a friendly, no business conversation. When was the last time you observed the shapes in the clouds? Have you ever witnessed a cow being milked? Have you recently enjoyed the sparks of a firefly, or watched the shooting stars in the night sky? When was the last time you saw storks on top of telephone poles or church spires? Have you ever drunk water straight from a spring in the middle of the woods? Have you ever picked wild berries along the road or sent "messages" to loved ones by blowing on a Dandelion?
     There are numerous small, forgotten joys one can experience through eco-tourism (rural vacationing) in Bulgaria. With its beautiful and unspoiled nature, spectacular landscapes, and a unique combination of mountains and sea, Bulgaria offers vacation opportunities to people of all ages, tastes, and in all seasons. The country has incredibly fertile soil, suitable for growing all crops of the moderate continental zone. Delicious fruit and vegetables, fragrant local herbs, grape vines, tobacco, and the unique and famous oil-yielding rose are typical there. Endemic to this country is the Lactobacillus Bulgaricus bacterium in the grass fields, used in the making of Bulgarian yogurt, which is an acknowledged source of longevity.
     With its peaceful countryside lifestyle, Bulgaria offers more than sunny beaches and cold beer for recreation. While on vacation one can still experience the local authentic lifestyle of a hundred years ago. Recreational activities include riding a mule, milking a sheep, producing home made cheese, butter, yogurt, bread, jam, honey, etc., while sleeping in a house older than grandma, with all the modern accommodations if one wishes, or walking on pavement that has preserved historical events of hundreds years ago. The rural tourism in Bulgaria is widely regarded as a key tool for development and revitalization of declining areas while preserving the purity of the landscape, natural resources, handcrafts, folklore, and traditions as attractions for visitors.
     Man-made contributions to the rural environment usually correspond with the authentic Bulgarian revival architecture or with the natural surroundings. This, along with majestic sceneries, unpolluted nature, and distinctive style of cookery attracts thousands of tourists as well as foreign property investors each year.
     Ideally, tourism in Bulgaria for some people would raise the image of the wide coastline along the Black Sea, almost 380km long, with its crystal-clear water, which is perfect for bathing and water sports. Standard tourism for others includes, are the mountains ski resorts, the 30,000km of marked hiking trails, or the spas with mineral water. Nowadays, however, that rural tourism in Bulgaria is in high gear at both national and international levels.
     So far, sustainable tourism in the country attempts to make a small impact on the environment and local culture while conserving the local ecosystem. It seeks to minimize ecological, cultural, and social impacts, and to maximize the benefits of conservation for local communities. As anyone spending time in Bulgaria knows, this country has tremendous natural resources, an incredibly rich history, and wonderful traditions. There is an incredible wealth of native plant and bird species (over 400 bird species). The country also features an exciting diversity of natural landscapes: mountains and valleys, rivers and lakes, cave and rock formations, canyons and waterfalls.
     Entering a village in Bulgaria often makes you feel like you've gone back in time to a Europe that no longer exists. The incredible 13 centuries of history can be seen not only in museums, but through the countryside. While there, tourists can hike from one end of Bulgaria to the other without ever leaving the mountains, or you can bike from village to village without ever using a paved road.
     In a recent survey among foreigners, the main reasons for not considering Bulgaria as a tourist destination were "lack of information," "far- away location," "language difficulties," and "limited accommodation choice." Positive comments included: "distinctive culture," "interesting," "relaxing," "pleasant," "comforting environment," and "unique cuisine" and " the great hospitality of the local people," who are friendly, sociable, and open to the world.
     It should be noted that, in countryside Bulgaria there are bargain property prices still available. While one is exploring the benefits and advantages of vacationing in rural Bulgaria, it is good to keep in mind it could be a good escape from the daily stress, the technology bombarding, and the intensive civilization. It might be a relief for ailments, or maybe a path back to one's childhood. One could experience the blessing of inner freedom, and spiritual growth within this country, and comeback to reality truly rejuvenated.

By Dafni Carcheva

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