A trip to New York City will display Americana at its finest; shopping, cuisine, and culture. A trip to Paris will truly be a charming getaway in the city and nation famous for romance. A trip to London will allow a vacationer to view the history of a nation that once ruled over half the world. A trip one should always consider is to the scenic, ex-communist, nation of Slovenia.



Slovenia is a country rich in history and natural beauty. One can hike in the majestic Alps or enjoy a low-elevation trip on the coast of the Adriatic Sea - a perfect place for a picnic. While in Slovenia visitors can experience the centuries old culture which Slovenia enjoys. Poets (such as France Pre?eren, often considered the national poet), musicians, and composers have called Slovenia home. For a mix of this lush history and culture - as well as modern tourist destinations - a trip to Bled will satisfy all tastes.

Due to the Swiss naturopath, Arnold Rikli, in the late 19th century, Bled became a prominent health resort and continues this tradition of relaxation and rejuvenation of both the body and the soul. Following this tradition, Bled provides an excellent starting point for a trip into nearby Triglav National Park.

The lone island in the glacial Lake Bled provides a grand base for the Assumption of Mary Pilgrimage Church, which is only accessible by Pletna; a traditional wooden barge. It is often thought ringing the church bell is good luck so it is a must for many visitors.

Completing the picturesque Lake Bled scene is Bled Castle perched 130meters above the lake surface. The iconic castle dates back to the middle ages.

The Bled community provides lodging for all budgets. For those travelers on a tight budget, several hostels provide beds for as little as 18? a night. Many of these hostels will provide quality meals for little cost. For travelers with a more discriminating taste for hotels, Bled also has an array of 4 and 5 star hotels which pamper guests' mind and body - but certainly not their wallet.

Most visitors (those being, tourists who want comfort at a reasonable price) will find themselves with plenty of options when choosing a hotel, including a name recognizable to most Americans - Best Western. Most of these hotels offer conveniences modern tourists have become accustomed too, including an in-room safe, television, washroom facilities, and some even offer wireless internet to their guests. A few hotels have even partnered with ultra-luxurious Grand Hotel Toplice to give guests access to its swimming and wellness facilities. Some hotels in Bled also offer packages giving guests deals on local activities, such as skiing in the winter or golf in the summertime.