Had a great time! Despite language barrier Romanians & Bulgarians were extremely helpful and working hard to make your visit pleasant. Budapest was our favorite city thanks to easy to follow maps laid out in Rick's books and short history lessons. Our thanks to Rick's staff directing us to the help with train travel in Eastern Europe, it was a unforgettable experience which we couldn't have done as easily without the reservations in place!
Dear Penny,
I know your item was done back in April, but I'm new on the WALL! I'm so glad you liked Romania, Bulgaria, and Hungary.. We've been to Hungary twice (on our own, using Rick's book) and loved it. In 2010, we went on the Steves' Bulgaria trip and that was one of our best trips. Lyuba, the guide was terrific, and we had a fab time. We spent a week in Romania on our own beforehand and had no problems. Keep traveling and remember that you really don't have to speak the language. Many young people in every country we've been to speak English and we always learn a few words, phrases, etc. for the important things on our own. It's fun! Now, plan a trip to Poland, Croatia (both beautiful), and delightful Slovenia. We hope to get to the Baltic States: Latvia, Estonia, and Lithuainiasp?). Have fun! Barbara
Did you begin or end your visit in Budapest? I'm planning a trip in mid to late September and considering Budapest as the first or last three days of a 22 day visit. I have looked into flights US (Chicago, Atlanta, Washington DC) to-from Budapest but haven't found anything that looks promising. Early searches have yielded no non-stop flights and many are 20+ hour, 2 stop routes. Any comment would be helpful.
If you were in Sofia, I would be interested in your reactions. I was there in the post-communist transition period, and although I had a wonderful time, the city was definately a work in progress.