Many ancient civilizations have molded the 1300 year-old history of the state of Bulgaria. Khan Asparouh founded the first Bulgarian Kingdom in 681. This Kingdom consisted of peoples from the ancient Bulgarian state that was situated on the Volga River, as well as the Slavs from the Byzantium Empire. This initial kingdom was located at modern-day northeast Bulgaria.
In 863, two brothers, Cyril and Methodius created the Slavonic alphabet. This, in combination with the establishment of Christianity (East Orthodox) as a
state religion in 864, greatly contributed to the development of Bulgarian
nationality and created an environment primed for literature and culture to flourish. During Bulgaria travel today, visitors will still observe a rich local culture. Bulgaria remained in the Byzantium Empire from 1018 until 1185. In 1185 the Second Bulgarian Kingdom was declared after the end of Byzantium rule and oppression. After a long war and fierce resistance, the country fell under Turkish control in 1393.
At first the Turks oppression was substantial, but by the 18th century hostility and resentment began to grow with the burden of unsuccessful Turkish wars against the Austrians and the Russians. The Turks began introducing reforms attempting to assimilate the Bulgarians, but it was too late. In the early 19th century popular customs and folklore blossomed in the National Revival, while underground revolutionaries plotted against the Turks. The Turks suppressed a premature revolt that broke out in April 1876 at Koprivshtitsa, with severe brutality. In addition, the Turks spread the work throughout Europe of 'Bulgarian atrocities'. Outraged European allies, primarily Russia, came to Bulgaria's rescue in the late 1870s. When the Russian army had advanced to within 50km (31mi) of Istanbul, Turkey ceded 60% of the Balkan Peninsula to Bulgaria.
The trip was not only memorable for the amount of animals we saw but also for the people and accommodations at the two camps where we stayed. Our first guide, BK, was a wealth of information about the animals, landscape and down to the plants and what they were used for. Everyday out was a learning experience with him. All the people at the camps were gracious and the food was excellent.
Our second camp in the Okavanga was just as good as the first as far as the staff, accommodations, food and animals. After our experience at the first camp we amazed that the high quality remained the same. Our guide, G, made sure we were able to enjoy every experience including a rush through the bush to witness a cheetah and an ensuing hunt that he heard over his radio.
In both camps there were enough guides out that if they saw something the other guides were informed which helped in seeing as much as possible. It was also nice that the concessions were large enough that we did not have vehicles following each other throughout the day.
Normally there is always something in a trip of this length that we think could be improved upon but this is the rare case where we cannot think of anything. From the time we left the States to when we returned it was one of the most hassle free vacations we took.
Perhaps emphasizing the use of the laundry facilities at the camps would be useful because of the luggage restrictions would be the only thing I can think of as an improvement to future clients.
Kenneth Dropek
1 day ago
Mary was so pleasant and professional. She made sure all of our questions were answered.