An Insiders View on Slovenia

Maja 

Slovenia, very green and diverse country between the Mediterranean and the Alps, boasts all the beauties of the Old World. When you want to learn about Europe in one stroke, come to Slovenia. In just 20,273 square kilometers there are wonderful Alps, charming coastline, pristine lakes, breath-taking crystal clear rivers, thermal springs, beautiful valleys, magnificent Karst cave world, antique castles, medieval cities, ancient villages, and countless vineyards with top quality wines. Here in this small and easily covered area one can find 4 geographic regions, 3 climate regions and 3 wine growing regions. This is Slovenia, compact and astonishing, a diversity of Europe in miniature. More diverse experiences await you all year round.

What makes Slovenia an ideal travel destination for all?

Not many countries can offer such a wide variety of amazing possibilities like Slovenia can. It is an ideal travel destination, among the most biologically diverse countries in the world and stunningly beautiful nature, small distances, one of the cleanest countries in Europe, excellent culinary & wine.

Tell us something that every traveller should know when travelling to Slovenia? 

Slovenians are respectful of the rules in public places and appreciate the kindness and good manners from others. Slovenians also recycle and try to keep the country clean. Also very important: tap water is clean and drinkable. Most of Slovenians speak English and are kind to tourists.

Any essentials that one needs to carry when they are travelling?

To bring euros and some sports shoes because there is a lot of places in nature to discover, especially away from the capital.

Which are the most surreal places to visit when in Slovenia?

Vintgar Gorge, Velika Planina, Logarska Dolina, Soca valley, Krizna cave, Postojna Cave, Skocjan Cave, Bled.

Can you tell us a little about the life of the locals?

Locals try to have the best quality of life, working hours are from 8 am until 4 pm or from 9 am to 5 pm which leaves almost all afternoon free for different activities in nature or just to spend quality time with the family and friends. When the weather is nice, locals also like to spend time in the city centre, just having a drink in one of the bars along the Ljubljanica river. During weekends, people like to have a short getaway in one of the different places in Slovenia, because everything is about one hour to two hours away from the capital.

What are the local delicacies/drinks which one must try and where Slovenia?

Local wine in different regions of Slovenia, Kranjska sausage, struklji (composed of dough and various types of filling), Potica (a dessert, rolled dough cake with different fillings, most common is nut filling), Bled cream cake, jota (a stew with sour cabbage and beans).

What are things which one must buy when in Slovenia?

Licitar heart, olive oil from different Slovenian producers, honey from different Slovenian producers, lace from Idrija, salt or chocolate with salt or different products from Piran saltpans, Slovenian schnapps (from blueberry or plum or similar).

Which is the most romantic places to visit in Slovenia?

Bled, Piran.

Which are the local festivals one must come to attend in Slovenia?

There are a lot of culinary events and wine events throughout the year in whole Slovenia. For example, Cherry Festival in Goriska Brda, Fish fest on Slovenian coast, Beer & flower festival in an Eastern part of Slovenia, Ljubljana Festival, Ethnomusic festival in Bled.

The things that guidebooks will not tell anyone about?

Some things should remain unpublished for guests to discover them on their own during their visit.

According to you what is the best thing about Slovenia?

That everything is close, you can go to the mountains and to the coast on the same day. There is a lot of nature which gives you a sense of freedom. Water is clean and drinkable. Slovenia is also very diverse and one can do so many different things, there is something for everyone.

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7 Reasons why you should pack your bags for Copenhagen right away

By Ayushi Shah 

With its exquisite gastronomy, impeccable architecture and charming canals – it doesn’t matter whether you are a romantic at heart, a foodie, a history buff or an explorer – the Danish capital has surprises in store for every visitor. Team Wanderers brings to you the top seven reasons to head to this stunning city.

Bicycle tours 

The Danes are proud of their eco-friendly live approach. Perhaps, this is why cycles have assimilated themselves into the city, becoming a part of the landscape itself. After all, 62 percent of Copenhageners use their bike for the daily commute. One of the best ways to see the city, hop on to witness the city’s main attractions including Europe’s oldest functioning observatory in Europe – The Round Tower, The Danish Parliament – Folketing, and the internet famous hippie town ‘Christiana Freetown’.

Gastronomy

With its world-class dining scene, it is no surprise that Copenhagen is home to many Michelin-star restaurants including Noma, which serves delicious Nordic food under the guidance of world-renowned chef Rene Redzepi. For those of you who’d like to get a taste of the local flavor, head to Refshaleøen – the popular street food neighborhood tucked with hidden cafes, bars and eateries.

Architecture

The design, décor and architecture of the city have drawn accolades from across the globe. With its peculiar brick buildings, the lanes of Copenhagen are a visual delight. When in the city, one must visit the Tivoli Gardens, a frequently visited amusement park and pleasure garden that is home to rides, games, musicals, ballet, and major concerts. Not to be missed are the picture-perfect Helsignor Castle, the Frederiksborg Castle, and the Amalienborg Palace, the official city residence of Queen Margrethe II and the Danish royal family.

Canals

The picturesque city’s charm is best witnessed by sailing down its canals where you can choose between an array of options including a canal tour boat, a solar energy-driven boat, a kayak and a romantic gondola. Feeling adventurous? You can catch one of the daily boats that depart from the Nyhavn harbour to visit the 100-year-old man-made island and fortress, Flakfortet, in the Sound. The fort, which was built as a part of the city’s defence system hosts a number of activities today, including treasure hunts, ghost hunts and mini-gold – ensuring a fun with family and friends.

Fashion

Whether it’s stylish boutiques you’re on a lookout for or high-end designer stores – the city that has carved its name on Europe’s fashion map will not disappoint you. After all, nothing lesser can be expected from the country that is home to the globally renowned Henrik Vibskov. Choose between Magasin Du Nord, one of the largest shopping malls in Copenhagen, and Veras market, a flea market set under Bispeengbuen Bridges. Moreover, if you’re looking for a great deal and don’t mind a few hours rummaging through piles, head to one of the city’s second-hand stores where you can find luxury vintage wear from across the world. A few options we’d recommend are Time’s Up, Episode and Prag.

Carlsberg District

Located in Vesterbro, this major tourist attraction is home to the world-famous Danish brewery of Carlsberg beer. While they have special events throughout the year, Summers’ steal the show with ‘Carlsberg Fridays’ – an informal night of music, barbeque and ice-cold tap beer. Not a beer-person? Hop on to one of the horse carriages nearby for a tour of the Carlsberg district to catch a glimpse of the iconic buildings that have graced the area for more than a hundred years.

The art of Danish Hygge

A visit to Copenhagen is mandatory to experience the widely acclaimed concept of ‘hygge’ (pronounced as “hoo-gah”). Often attributed as the reason behind Denmark being considered as one of the happiest countries in the world -it means creating a warm atmosphere and enjoying the good things in life with good people. Happiness can’t be bought, but can sure be learnt from the Danes.

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